20 Amazing Epic Fantasy Dragon Books You Must Read

I’ve had a soft spot in my heart for dragons ever since I first encountered them in a book. I was captivated as soon as I opened The Hobbit, a book that featured one of these legendary creatures. Then as time went by, I encountered a lot of them in fantasy books.

I could almost hear the rustle of their wings, feel the heat of their breath, and detect the ancient wisdom in their eyes. Smaug, the infamous dragon from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, was a force of nature and a symbol of destructive greed, to the magnificent dragons Daenerys Targaryen hatched in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, these creatures left a lasting impression.

It always seemed like an adventure to read about these magnificent creatures. They bring a special kind of intensity to epic fantasy stories. Saphira, a blue dragon with a will of her own, was first introduced to us in Christopher Paolini’s Eragon, for instance. The mental and emotional connections between dragons and their riders in that world added a completely new layer to the growth of the characters.

Why do people find dragons to be so fascinating?

Is it their unbridled power, their ethereal legend, or the paradox of their horrifying beauty? I think it combines all three of them with a lot more. Today I am writing for anyone who, like me, finds that the mere mention of dragons ignites their imagination. Today I will introduce you to twenty high/epic fantasy books that have dragons in them in unique, mind-blowing, and unforgettable ways.

The Dragon’s Allure: Why Dragons are So Popular in Epic or high fantasy

From ancient mythology to modern literature, dragons have always held a unique allure. Our fascination with these majestic, typically terrifying creatures dates back centuries, igniting our fantasies. Dragons play a more significant role in epic fantasy, where they represent strength, knowledge, and an untamed wildness that draws in readers of all ages.

But why do dragons appear so frequently in epic fantasy books?

Why do they possess such magic? Their physical strength and power play a part in it. They are frequently portrayed as powerful, almost god-like creatures that inspire awe and dread. Their capacity to breathe fire, their enormous size, and their capacity for destruction all add a sense of marvel and splendor to any story.

However, their physical strength and enormous size are not at the heart of our fascination for them. The mystery and magic surrounding them are what bewitches us. Dragons are described as beings from the distant past, wise and knowledgeable beyond human comprehension. Since they contain secrets that have the power to influence entire worlds or even entire kingdoms, they become symbols of mystery and wonder.

Also, dragons can represent both chaos and order, making them a paradoxical symbol. Through their destructive power, they represent chaos; they are frequently pictured destroying cities or hoarding valuables. However, they also stand for law and order because dragons are frequently depicted as maintaining harmony

20 amazing high/Epic fantasy books with dragons

1. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Ah, the tale that ignited my own love affair with dragons. J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is an enthralling prequel to the epic Lord of the Rings trilogy. Here, we explore the cozy, at-ease world of the hobbits, a world that is turned on its head when the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves show up at the modest Bilbo Baggins’ residence.

The simple pleasures of food and domestic comfort that typically fill Bilbo’s life are suddenly replaced by dwarves, wizards, trolls, goblins, and a perilous game of nighttime riddles. That certainly surpasses afternoon tea.

The recovery of the dwarves’ homeland and wealth, which the ferocious dragon Smaug the Magnificent is guarding, is at the center of their quest. As his name implies, Smaug is indeed a spectacle – dangerous, perceptive, and unforgettable.

Although uncommon, Tolkien’s dragons are brilliantly written, offering a fusion of conventional dragon lore and his own original creative spin. Even without considering the intricate world-building and endearing characters Tolkien creates, Smaug’s portrayal alone makes the book worthwhile.

2. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin

A tapestry of politics, war, unforgettable characters, magic, and dragons – yes, dragons! And not just any dragons either; these are symbolic fire-breathing beings that are the foundation of this wonderfully intricate world.

The Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen, is a name you’ve probably heard of. One of the most captivating plotlines in this vast saga is her journey with her three dragons, Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion. These dragons develop from adorable hatchlings to dreadful war and power beasts after emerging from petrified eggs in a funeral pyre.

The way Martin connects the dragons in A Song of Ice and Fire to the world’s politics, history, and magic makes them truly unique. They are more than just cool creatures; they are emblems of a lost past, the pinnacle of Targaryen power, and essential components of the magical rebirth in a land that clings to realism with all its might.

I can still see Drogon, the biggest and most dangerous of the trio, flying for the first time in the books. It was an experience of pure elation. You can almost feel the heat of the dragon fire thanks to Martin’s masterful depiction of the magnificent majesty and unbridled power of dragons.

The dragons add a touch of untamed, wild magic to the Westerosi world, where power struggles take place on bloody battlefields and in opulent castles. They are a weapon unlike any other, a game-changer in a power struggle, and a symbol of the Targaryen legacy. And in the A Song of Ice and Fire universe, they are waiting to meet you.

3. Dragon’s Milk by Susan Fletcher

Let’s take a detour into the realm of young adult fantasy with Dragon’s Milk by Susan Fletcher. If you ask me, this book is a shining example of how fantasy can speak to readers of all ages, which is one of the things I’ve always thought is one of the most magical aspects of the genre.

Kaeldra, a young woman with the ability to communicate with dragons, is the protagonist of this story. When I first read about Kaeldra, I couldn’t help but recall the fantasies I had as a child – what adventures I would have had if I could communicate with dragons!

Kaeldra’s journey begins with a mission to save the life of her foster sister, which can only be accomplished by obtaining the mother dragon’s milk. Can you imagine the amount of courage required even to approach a dragon and request milk for her draclings?

Kaeldra becomes part of a story of survival and unanticipated kinship as she embarks on her dangerous mission. The dragons are expertly portrayed as complex, intelligent beings in Fletcher’s tale of compassion and bravery. In contrast to the ferocity we typically associate with dragons, we see the mother dragon’s tender maternal side and the draclings’ adorable curiosities.

The deep emotional journey that Dragon’s Milk offers is one aspect I especially love. It’s not just an exciting adventure; it’s also a touching investigation of bonds that cut across species. Young adults and those who are still young at heart will find Dragon’s Milk to be a heartwarming read because Fletcher humanizes dragons in a way that is very relatable and almost human. Are you ready to hear what the dragons have to say?

4. A Wizard of Earthsea (Earthsea Cycle #1) by Ursula K. Le Guin

The timeless novel A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin will take you to the island continent of Earthsea. This story is an admired fantasy classic because it is filled with wisdom, magic, and, of course, fascinating dragons.

A Wizard of Earthsea introduces us to Ged, initially known as Sparrowhawk, a boy with an immense talent for magic. Ged, a young, careless wizard, unleashes a terrible shadow upon Earthsea out of his desire for power. Reading about his journey, his struggles, and his victories was like reliving adolescence’s growing pains with the thrill of magic and dragons.

And speaking of dragons, Le Guin’s depictions of the magical creatures are absolutely breathtaking. They represent the untamed power of nature and are old and wise. Ged’s journey includes one of the most captivating scenes in which he tames an ancient dragon, demonstrating his developing mastery over magic and himself.

The dragons in A Wizard of Earthsea are reminiscent of the storied, mighty, and somewhat aloof dragons. They are ancient beings with their own wisdom and will, far from pets or simple animals. You will feel as though I was standing at the edge of something incredibly old and vast when you come across them with Ged. It’s a masterfully written story full of adventure and magic of the ancient creatures that will surely please anyone who loves epic fantasy and dragons!

5. Fourth Wing (The Empyrean #1) by Rebecca Yarros

Have you ever considered what it might be like for dragon riders to attend a war college? So get ready to enter that world with Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing. The book I’m about to describe to you isn’t just a high fantasy with dragons; it also has a gripping romance that keeps you on the edge of the pages.

The main character, Violet Sorrengail, is thrown into the vicious world of Navarre’s dragon riders from a life destined for the quiet tranquility of the Scribe Quadrant. This frail, small young woman must struggle not only to survive but also to earn a spot among the elite dragon riders. Yarros unmask the brutality of this world; dragons here devour ‘fragile’ humans instead of bonding with them.

Yarros skillfully spins a tale where the stakes are high, and danger can come from both the dragons themselves and the vicious rivals. Particularly from the intimidating Xaden Riorson, the strong wing leader with a personal grudge against Violet.

The romance on Fourth Wing is one of my favorite elements. Rarely do you get to watch a love story develop amid dragon rides and life-or-death battles, but Yarros does it gracefully. It’s a great option for readers looking for a hint of romance with their dragons because of the conflict between Violet and a particular hard-edged wing leader that adds another layer to the narrative.

A thrilling journey into a world of dragons and battle, Fourth Wing is full of mystery, tension, and budding love. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself gasping for air, supporting Violet, and becoming enamored with the thrilling delight of dragon riding.

6. The Dragon Keeper (The Rain Wild Chronicles #1) by Robin Hobb

Most likely, if you’re a dragon enthusiast like I am, you’ve heard of Robin Hobb’s The Dragon Keeper. Alongside classics like The Hobbit and A Song of Ice and Fire, this book has earned its place as one of the most beloved high fantasy dragon novels of all time.

The Dragon Keeper whisks us away to the Trader cities, where the mighty dragon Tintaglia once saved the people from an invasion. The people used to care for the earthbound dragons that hatched weak and deformed because of a toxic river, but over time they became complacent and tired of doing so.

Hobb creates a heartbreaking picture of dragons as victims of human neglect in this passage. This was a welcome change from the typical depiction of dragons as being nearly invincible cre. Although they are dependent on human care, these dragons are just as capable of rage and destruction if disregarded.

Thymara, a forest girl ignorant of social customs, and Alise, the unhappy wife of a wealthy Trader, are the unlikely team assigned the task of escorting these dragons to their mythical homeland, Kelsingra. You feel invested in their successes and struggles because of this journey that has no guarantee of a happy ending.

For the duration of this epic odyssey, Hobb, a master storyteller, weaves a tapestry of treachery, happiness, and difficulty. The Dragon Keeper is a must-read for any fan of dragon fantasy because of its vivid world-building, complex plotlines, and rich character development.

7. Rise of the Ranger (The Echoes Saga #1) by Philip C. Quaintrell

This epic fantasy transports you to the country of Illian, where a millennia-old prophecy is about to come true.

Humans have ruled Illian for a thousand years, building their civilizations over the ruins of elven ones. On the other hand, the elves, who are stronger, faster, and more connected to the magical world, are beginning to realize that Illian is theirs. This premise flips the script on the traditional fantasy elements of elves and men by arguing that the former is superior to the latter. This turn of events intrigued me because it provided a novel viewpoint on a well-traveled path.

The six broken and power-hungry kingdoms of men are unaware of the approaching shadow to the east. A war is silently approaching, not just a skirmish but a slaughter that humans may not survive. The book is filled with a sense of impending doom, and Quaintrell expertly heightens the tension as the plot develops.

Here comes Asher, an assassin, ranger, and Outlander. He was born a thousand years ago, but due to his brutal training for forty years and his life as a mercenary, he has no memory of his past. Asher is currently thrown into this impending conflict, though it is unknown how he is connected to the ancient evils.

If you are wondering about dragons, they play a crucial role in the story and become more prominent as the series goes on, even though this book doesn’t feature them as prominently as some of the others on this list. The tension in the story is increased by their ominous, enigmatic presence in the Illian universe.

8. Dragonslayer (The Dragonslayer Trilogy #1) by Duncan M. Hamilton

The thrilling trilogy Dragonslayer by Duncan M. Hamilton kicks off with the allure of lost magics, unlikely heroes, and reawakened dragons. Have you ever wondered what it’s like when a dragon suddenly appears in a world that has been without them for a millennium, and people have forgotten all about them? This book gives you a first-person view of such an event.

Since dragons painted the skies a millennium ago, mages and warriors have worked together to eradicate these supernatural creatures. Magic bearers have been persecuted since the end of the dragon-war era, with only a small number being kept alive to help the ambitious Prince Bishop. The brave Chevaliers, who once led the charge against the dragons, fell victim to vice and were disbanded. The people of Mirabaya experienced a period of peace as the memory of dragons vanished into folklore.

But as with anything peaceful, a disruption looms large. A dragon stirs in the Mirabaya mountains after waking up from a millennium-long slumber, its heart throbbing with sorrow, rage, and perpetual hunger. The people of Mirabaya are plunged into an unimaginable crisis as the dragon emerges, determined to exact revenge for the death of its mate.

The young king of Mirabaya is compelled to call the last Chevalier of the Silver Circle Guillot dal Villerauvais when the Prince Bishop’s mages fail to kill the dragon. Guillot is not a legendary hero, but he is constrained by morality and duty. He demonstrates a very human kind of heroism, one that derives from commitment rather than extraordinary power, and is prepared to face a threat unseen in a millennium.

With its tale of reawakened terror, lost magic, and the most unlikely hero, Dragonslayer will bewitch you to the fullest. Hamilton’s writing captivates you with a compelling tale of how people adjust when historical figures suddenly descend from the skies. An absolute must-read for fans of dragon lore!

9. The Summer Dragon by Todd Lockwood

If you have already read The Song of Ice and Fire by George RR. Martin and want to experience the intense politics and dragons featured in one fantasy story meant for adults, this one might be a great one for you.

In this book, dragons and deadly politics are woven into a high/epic fantasy adventure. The main character, Maia, comes from a family that breeds dragons for the government’s war machine. She looks forward to adding her own dragon to the breeding parents’ cohort as she gets older.

But when the Summer Dragon, a High Dragon, one of the rarest and most legendary of its kind, appears in her peaceful valley, her quiet existence takes a dramatic turn. Such an occurrence carries a potent symbolic message that political factions fight to control and put Maia’s goals, her aerie, and her entire way of life in danger.

The bond between a dragon and its rider is a life-long, firm relationship. It’s this desire for a dragon of her own to train, ride, fly, and cherish that motivates Maia to risk her life. The journey that follows is rife with perils and difficulties, including deathless Horrors, enemy thralls, and a faceless creature dredged from her own fear.

In her quest to protect all she holds dear, Maia discovers a conspiracy, unearths a lost civilization, and challenges her understanding of the world around her and herself as well. The novel offers a fascinating contrast between individual desire and social expectations, as well as the search for the truth in a world shrouded in mystery.

The Summer Dragon holds up an image of real-world political movements, showing how quickly innocent lives can be swept up in the ambitions of power-hungry parties. It’s a great read for fantasy fans because of the complex narrative and the vivid descriptions of dragon lore. Additionally, if you’ve ever wanted to experience flying on a dragon’s back, this book may be the closest thing you can find!

10. Dragonflight (Dragonriders of Pern #1) by Anne McCaffrey

The masterful fusion of genres and themes in Dragonflight is what makes it remarkable. One of my all-time favorites, this classic book seamlessly blends science fiction and high fantasy, adds time travel and romance and even touches on young adult themes. The end result is a captivating story that, more than fifty years since its first publication, still holds readers’ attention.

The talented bestselling author Anne McCaffrey spins a complex tale of dragons, political scheming, and a struggle for legitimate power in Dragonflight, the first book in the venerable Dragonriders of Pern series.

The central character, Lessa, has spent the majority of her life working as a ragged kitchen girl at Benden Weyr for the nobles who betrayed and usurped her father’s lands. But Lessa is adamant about getting her stolen birthright back, and when she develops an intense, enduring bond with a queen dragon, her life takes an extraordinary turn.

This bond becomes essential when Thread, a destructive force that descends like rain and destroys everything it touches, threatens Lessa’s world for the first time in centuries. Dragons and their Riders once protected the planet from Thread, but their populations have since declined. In order to save their world, Lessa must now put both her life and the life of her beloved dragon in danger.

The Dragonriders of Pern series is a staple of fantasy literature thanks to McCaffrey’s vivid world-building, well-rounded characters, and creative storytelling. Dragonflight is a thrilling adventure you won’t want to miss, whether you’re a devoted follower or a new reader, especially if you enjoy epic fantasy with a dash of sci-fi and time travel.

11. Fireborne by Rosaria Munda

This one is a remarkable story with political intrigue, emotional depth, and high stakes. Every action in Fireborne is masterfully balanced against the backdrop of a beautifully realized world infused with dragons. The characters are complex, the conflicts are intriguing, and the dragon-riding elements add a fresh spin to the genre. Along with the exciting premise of dragon riding, this book is perfect for fans of character-driven fantasy and outstanding world-building.

The story follows Annie and Lee, two best friends who have their lives turned upside down by a revolution that allows people of low birth to join the elite class of Dragonriders.

The two main characters, Annie and Lee, come from completely different backgrounds. Dragonfire wiped out Annie’s humble family, whereas Lee’s noble family was killed by the very revolutionaries who sparked the rebellion. Seven years of intense schooling change them into rivals for the most prestigious position in the dragon riding fleet after they all end up in the same orphanage after suffering similar losses.

However, their world gets tossed into chaos once more when survivors from the previous regime appear, dedicated to taking back the city. With war on the horizon, Lee must decide whether to sacrifice his remaining loved ones or turn traitor. Annie, meanwhile, must choose between protecting the boy she loves and becoming the champion her city needs.

The author Rosaria Munda delves into issues of class distinction, political struggle, and interpersonal relationships. It’s an exciting, emotional rollercoaster full of adventure, thrill, and of course, dragons!

12. Eragon by Christopher Paolini

The personal significance of Eragon is something I hold dear to my heart. I stumbled upon this gem in a secondhand bookstore, a worn-out copy with its pages yellowing, bearing the silent testament of a story well-loved and frequently visited. Despite its humble origins, this book has become one of my most treasured possessions. Every time I pick it up, I’m transported back to the magical world of Alagaësia, where every twist and turn brings new challenges for a boy and his dragon.

When we talk about high fantasy books featuring dragons, it’s hard not to mention the captivating world of Alagaësia in Eragon by Christopher Paolini. This novel, the first in the Inheritance Cycle, effortlessly blends together the elements of high fantasy, including a fully realized fictional world, a diverse range of species, a complex system of magic, and, most importantly, magnificent dragons.

Eragon showcases dragons in all their majestic glory, being central figures to the plot rather than just beasts or side characters. The dragons in this book are intelligent, emotional beings that share a deep, mystical bond with their riders. The bond between Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, is depicted with such depth and warmth that it forms the emotional backbone of the story.

Paolini, who started writing Eragon when he was just a teenager, created an intricate, well-structured world that’s filled with fascinating lore, grand quests, and engaging characters. The author’s vivid, detailed descriptions pull you into his magical world, making you feel as if you’re standing right there with Eragon and Saphira on their epic journey.

13. Kingfall by David Estes

David Estes’ Kingfall transports you into a vast realm filled with contending kingdoms, godlings, dragon riders, and a menacing evil that hangs over the entire planet. It is a sequel to Estes’s #1 bestseller on Amazon, The Fatemarked Epic, and it unquestionably lives up to that book’s renown. This story is like a symphony; each part is essential and vivid in its own right, and they all work together to form a seamless whole.

The story follows Sampson Gaard, a blind prince with boundless ambition. The intrigue intensifies as Sampson obtains a Godblade, an antique sword imbued with magic, shadows, and stars. Since the end of the Godswar, the good blades have been thought to be lost for ages.

They possess tremendous power, and their reemergence could have far-reaching effects. Who is the true master, Sampson or the blade? The reader is forced to wonder. The response may greatly influence the outcome for Kingfall.

Estes’ talent for creating vast, expansive worlds that spark the mind is something I admire about his work. In Kingfall, he creates a complex tapestry of mythology, politics, and individual ambition. The experience of reading this book is similar to setting off on a long journey, with each page flip unveiling fresh delights and frights.

The fascinating examination of power, ambition, and responsibility in Kingfall really stood out to me. Sampson is presented by Estes in subtle strokes, creating a hero who is both captivating and flawed. Sampson’s battle with his newfound power and the hazy distinction between using power and being used by it are both revealed to us in a very believable manner. The psychological depth that results from this exploration makes the story intriguing and thought-provoking.

Kingfall is a grand story that doesn’t hold back on scale or scope. It’s a world brimming with mystery and peril, full of people you’ll either love or despise and everything in between. Whether you’ve read anything by Estes before or this is your first time, Kingfall promises to take you on a memorable journey. A thrilling and fulfilling experience is created by the engaging tale and an adequately formed universe.

14. Time of the Twins by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman

Although dragons are not as important as a presence as in some other books in this list, Time of the Twins is a fantastic epic fantasy story with fascinating characters and surprising plot turns that will provide you with an amazing fantastical journey.

In Time of the Twins, the first book in Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman’s Dragonlance: Legends series, we enter an interesting universe that combines magic, darkness, faith, and power in a tightly-woven story that will captivate you till the last pages. This book is a great place to start if you’re new to the Dragonlance series because of its compelling story, intriguing characters, and extensive mythology and lore.

The main character of the tale is the archmage Raistlin Majere, who is preparing to rule over darkness itself from the formidable Tower of High Sorcery in Palanthas. But this story isn’t just a straightforward tale of good vs evil. It dives deeply into the minds of its characters and gives us an insightful look at power, ambition, and the fine line separating redemption and damnation.

Apart from Raistlin, there is Caramon, Raistlin’s twin, who sets out on a voyage across time to save his brother’s soul, and these two hold the key to thwarting Raistlin’s objectives. Crysania is a devout priest who tries to guide Raistlin away from a darkness with her religion but is oblivious to his true intentions. This creates the conditions for a great struggle of wills with an uncertain conclusion.

I found the portrayal of Raistlin most intriguing in this story. The authors depict a man whose thirst for power is only surpassed by the depth of his loneliness. His persona presents challenging issues regarding the nature of power and the costs associated with obtaining it.

It’s a compelling read with unexpected surprises, fascinating characters, and an enjoyable writing style. For anyone who craves a character-driven fantasy novel with a lot of interesting turns of events, this might be a great choice for them.

15. The Sorceress and the Cygnet by Patricia A. McKillip

This one holds a special place in my heart, not just for its captivating narrative and nuanced portrayal of dragons but also because it’s penned by one of my favorite authors of all time, Patricia A. McKillip. Her work is akin to a symphony in the world of fantasy literature; her narratives flow like music, and her prose is beautiful and lyrical, often leaving me lost in the cadence of her words.

Each sentence is like a brushstroke on a canvas, building up a masterpiece that lingers in your thoughts long after you’ve closed the book. It’s this mesmerizing writing style that has cemented McKillip’s place as one of my most admired authors.

In The Sorceress and the Cygnet, McKillip paints a world teeming with magic, inhabited by complex characters and, of course, intriguing dragons. She masterfully weaves in the narrative of the dragons, not as mere mythical creatures but as symbolic entities that enhance the depth of the story.

Reading this book was like embarking on a mystical journey guided by the maestro herself. The awe-inspiring dance between the characters, the magical realm, and the dragons truly testifies to McKillip’s storytelling genius. It’s a story that rekindles the love for fantasy in my heart with every read, reminding me why Patricia A. McKillip is and always will be one of my all-time favorite authors.

Related read: All Fantasy Series Written by Patricia A. McKillip

16. The Elvenbane, Mercedes Lackey, and Andre Norton

When two masters of epic fantasy come together to create a fantasy tale, you know that it will be an automatic masterpiece! That’s what happened with this book.

The novel The Elvenbane, written in collaboration with Mercedes Lackey and Andre Norton, is a welcome synthesis of two well-liked genres: science fiction and epic fantasy. This fusion intensifies the book’s attractiveness and makes it a particularly engrossing read.

Shana, the protagonist of the tale, is an elf-and-human hybrid child of an elven lord and a human mother. Shana, who was born out of forbidden love, is an early orphan who is saved and nurtured by dragons, magnificent and powerful animals who live hidden from the world of elves and humans. These dragons have raised a child that the all-powerful Elvenlords fear because it is practically a living prophecy according to their cryptic, ancient understanding.

The seamless integration of themes from several subgenres is what makes this novel an appealing choice for fantasy aficionados. The worldbuilding’s fusion of science fiction and fantasy creates a setting that is both exciting and captivating.

Another dimension of intricacy and wonder is added to the story by the discovery of elves and dragons coexisting. This duality gives these well-known mythical creatures more complexity and offers a different viewpoint.

The Elvenbane is a thrilling journey and a grand adventure. You don’t come across a story with finely interwoven science fiction themes, elves, and dragons every day. Every fan of fantasy who wants to venture outside of the norm will enjoy the story that the book delivers.

17. The Waking Fire by Anthony Ryan

The first book in Anthony Ryan’s The Draconis Memoria series, The Waking Fire, is an interesting book that both epic fiction and steampunk fans will enjoy. This unusual mix of genres makes a pull that is hard to avoid.

The Ironship Syndicate rules over a huge area, and the blood of drakes is the most valuable thing there. This powerful fluid can be taken from creatures of different colors (Reds, Greens, Blues, and Blacks) that have been captured or killed. It can be turned into powerful elixirs that give the blood-blessed, the rare people who can use them, amazing powers.

But behind this complicated scheme is a scary truth: the Drake bloodlines are getting weaker. When these bloodlines fall apart, it will be impossible to avoid a war with the nearby Corvantine Empire. The Syndicate’s few remaining hopes now depend on tales of an even stronger breed of drakes and the chosen few who are supposed to find them.

The story skillfully ties together the lives of three characters: Claydon Torcreek, an unregistered blood-blessed who reluctantly becomes a hero; Lizanne Lethridge, a fearless spy on a dangerous mission; and Corrick Hilemore, a second lieutenant on an iron ship who is looking for criminals but ends up facing a bigger threat.

The Waking Fire is a thrilling look at a world where the lines between what is known and what is an unknown blur, where empires and lives fight, and where every character must face a wave of war. The book takes the best parts of epic fantasy and steampunk and combines them into a series that is both interesting and different. It’s a must-read for fans of both steampunk and epic stories about countries fighting each other.

18. Dragon Maze by M.L. Spencer

Dragon Mage is the first in the Rivenworld series by M.L. Spencer. This fascinating story has a simple start that builds into an epic tale. The story is centered around Aram Raythe, a young man from a secluded fishing village. Aram believes himself to be nothing more than an ordinary misfit and yearns for acceptance and friendship.

However, Aram is far from ordinary. He carries an extraordinary and ancient gift within him that could alter the balance of power in the world. This unique ability of his is so profound that it secures him a place in a prestigious academy for warrior mages, the training ground for the highly regarded dragon riders!

But Aram aspires to be a Champion, not just another dragon rider. He wants to become a kind of mage not seen in centuries, who possesses unparallel magical power. He’s in for a fight to earn respect and acceptance in this challenging role. However, he doesn’t have a clue that a formidable threat from an ancient myth is about to surface, and once it emerges, it will jeopardize the entire world. And, wait for it; Aram might be the only hope to defeat the evil force.

You might think this is a cliché plot, suspiciously resembling some known, popular fantasy novels, but trust me – it has its uniqueness.

Written in a clear, accessible style, Dragon Mage is an epic journey of self-discovery, friendship, and heroism. It’s a story of a young man who must learn to wield his unique powers, confront ancient evil, and save the world. In the end, it will prove to be an enchanting tale of resilience and destiny, making it a captivating addition to your reading list.

19. The Sleeping Dragon by Joel Rosenberg

Here, portal fantasy meets epic fantasy, just like Narnia, but through a game! Prepare yourself for a thrilling ride with The Sleeping Dragon, the first installment in Joel Rosenberg’s Guardians of the Flame series.

If you’ve ever immersed yourself in a fantasy game, you’ll relate to the story of James, Karl, Andrea, and their friends. What starts as a routine evening of gaming takes an unexpected turn when their crafty gamemaster, Professor Deighton, transports them into an entirely different realm.

This isn’t your typical fantasy world, however. In this reality, magic is extraordinarily potent, dragons breathe fire, and survival depends on quick thinking and quicker swordplay. Our intrepid gamers find themselves embodying the very characters they once pretended to be, suddenly faced with real-world dangers and epic quests.

But the most formidable challenge lies ahead. The group learns that the only pathway back to Earth is the elusive Gate Between Worlds, a legendary site fiercely protected by the most fearsome foe they’ve yet to encounter: The Sleeping Dragon.

This captivating narrative is a vivid reminder of how quickly life can shift gears and how even in the face of overwhelming odds, friendship and courage can guide us through. Whether you’re a gamer or not, The Sleeping Dragon serves up an engaging blend of fantasy and adventure that will keep you engrossed to the very end.

20. Cephrael’s Hand by Melissa McPhail

Do you want to read an epic fantasy where dragons like drinking wine? If so, then Cephrael’s Hand, the first book in Melissa McPhail’s ‘A Pattern of Shadow & Light’ series, is for you. This one is a riveting epic fantasy novel set in the beautifully crafted realm of Alorin.

This world, however, is on the brink of devastation, three hundred years after the cataclysmic Adept Wars that nearly extinguished the blessed Adept race. Bjorn van Gelderan, a complex character with a history of betrayal, holds the key to reversing this impending decline.

Raine D’Lacourte, an Adept Vestal, is entrusted with a daunting mission: find Bjorn and uncover his secrets to salvage the dwindling Adept race. But Bjorn has spent centuries under the mark of a traitor, and locating him is no small task.

Parallelly, in the kingdom of Dannym, we follow Prince Ean val Lorian, the last living heir to the prized Eagle Throne. When a failed assassination attempt claims the life of his blood brother, Ean finds himself ensnared in a labyrinthine plot. Guided by advisors with ulterior motives, Ean’s pursuit of justice unearths a sinister plan orchestrated by a powerful figure known only as the First Lord.

Meanwhile, in the Nadori desert, a soldier named Trell is haunted by his obscured past. His quest for clarity places him in the debt of Wildlings loyal to the First Lord, leading him to unearth a secret far more menacing and dark.

Cephrael’s Hand weaves together these three strands in a mesmerizing pattern, taking readers on a journey through a world filled with intricate politics, conspiracies, and rich character development. McPhail’s vivid world-building and engaging storytelling style make this an excellent choice for fans of epic fantasy.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a delightful stroll through some captivating tales featuring our all-time favorites – dragons. From youthful dragon riders and ancient god-blades to dragons as devoted guardians and terrifying menaces, these books will take you on an unforgettable journey through worlds teeming with magic, adventure, and good old dragon lore.

And remember, dragons aren’t just for fantasy, as we’ve seen with the ingenious blend of science fiction, steampunk, and classic epic fantasy.

Whether you’re a seasoned dragon rider or a new recruit to the world of dragon-filled literature, each of these fascinating novels promises to offer a unique spin on our beloved, fire-breathing creatures. So, cozy up with your favorite blanket, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and get ready to dive into these fantastical worlds where dragons rule the sky and heroes rise amidst adversities.

Happy reading, and always keep the fire of your imagination burning! Until next time, stay enchanted by the magic of stories, and remember, in the world of fantasy, dragons are forever!