11 Best High Fantasy Books and Novels of All Time

As we teeter on the edge of reality, the best high fantasy books and novels of all time beckon, giving an escape into worlds woven with magic, inhabited by fascinating creatures, and teeming with heart-stopping adventures. This vast field of literature, full of potential, does more than just tell stories. It creates complicated realms that transcend our knowledge of the ‘real’ world and brings to life characters who are as vivid as the individuals we meet in our daily lives.

I was transported the first time I turned the pages of a high fantasy novel. I found myself in an intriguing universe, far different from my own but strongly connected to the human experience. I fought dragons in gleaming armor, cast spells in the moonlight, and unearthed age-old secrets engraved on ancient stones. I lived a thousand lives, each with its own story of bravery, love, and triumph over seemingly impossible circumstances.

These aren’t just stories; they’re the start of a remarkable trip, an examination of the unthinkable that nonetheless parallels our own world in intriguing ways. The best fantasy books act as mirrors, absorbing our essence and reflecting it back in the enticing garb of the surreal. Both the literary canon and our understanding of the universe have been radically affected by these novels, which range from epic high fantasy to magical realism and blur the barriers between the mundane and the fantastic.

I am going to discuss the finest works of high fantasy literature ever written, works that have thrilled readers of all ages around the world and served as inspiration for millions.

Here are the six best high fantasy books of all time:

1. The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

The first novel in Brandon Sanderson‘s famed Mistborn series, The Final Empire, is a victorious monument to high fantasy’s potential. Sanderson demonstrates his skill as a world-builder and writer by creating a fascinating and original setting that is full of mystery, intrigue, and vivid detail.

The world of The Final Empire is bleak and unpleasant; ash rains down from the sky, a mist shrouds the night and holds terrors, and an absolute monarch known as the Lord Ruler rules with no opposition. The skaa (common people) have lived in subjugation for a thousand years, and the nobility, privileged by the Lord Ruler, has only made things worse.

Allomancy, the magic system established in the Mistborn series, is both fascinating and original because it gives characters exceptional skills through the ingestion and burning of various types of metal. This method is internally consistent and has a significant impact on the story’s development, resulting in exciting and dramatic fight scenes.

However, the individuals in The Final Empire are the story’s saving grace. Vin, a skeptic street kid with dormant Allomantic skills, is our primary point-of-view character throughout the novel. One of the book’s great strengths is following Vin’s development from a timid, solitary thief to a strong, self-assured, and empathic lady.

Her tutor, the colorful and secretive Kelsier, provides an intriguing contrast in personality and approach to the world’s harsh reality with his contagious laughter and unwavering disobedience against the Lord Ruler.

The plot is intricately crafted, with unexpected turns that will keep readers engaged. It combines political intrigue, exciting adventure, and thoughtful social critique. Sanderson also delves into deeper philosophical threads, like as trust, faith, rebellion, and hope against all odds, which give the novel its emotional weight and ensure that it stays with readers long after they’ve put down the book.

Masterfully balancing detailed world-building, character development, a complex magic system, and a plot that keeps readers captivated, The Final Empire is a masterpiece. Sanderson’s writing style is clear and vivid, drawing the reader into his invented universe.

As soon as I dove into the bleak yet fascinating universe of The Final Empire, I was hooked on the story. Whether you’ve read high fantasy before or have never picked one up, The Final Empire is sure to transport you somewhere else while simultaneously enthralling and motivating you. The science fiction/fantasy author Sanderson’s The Final Empire solidifies his standing as a master of the field.

2. The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin

The Fifth Season, the first novel in N.K. Jemisin‘s trilogy, The Broken Earth, is a superb work of high fantasy that pushes the limits of the genre. The story takes place in a dystopian universe where periodic cataclysmic catastrophes known as seasons are endured by a single continent called Stillness.

The story revolves around orogenes, people with the power to manipulate geological forces. In a society that despises and oppresses them, this power is both a blessing and a burden.

Jemisin expertly uses a non-linear narrative to tell the story from the perspectives of three different orogenes: Syenite, an ambitious orogene who is fighting to advance in her society; Damaya, a young girl sent to a harsh institution to hone her orogenic skills, and Essun, a middle-aged orogene mother searching for her daughter. Their paths eventually cross in a masterful storytelling move that displays Jemisin’s real depth of creativity as the story develops.

The text is powerful and eerie, vividly and intensely expressing the characters’ sheer desperation and resiliency as well as their fragmented surroundings. The world-building is superb, creating a distinct realm that successfully combines fantasy, dystopia, and post-apocalyptic themes.

Particularly remarkable is Jemisin’s usage of the second-person narrative. Although unusual, it helps the reader feel more personally connected to the characters by giving their experiences a more present-tense quality.

However, readers should be informed that the complicated narrative and the novel writing style may initially test their patience. However, once you’re immersed, you’ll probably love the novel storytelling technique.

In conclusion, The Fifth Season is a high fantasy triumph. It provides a reading experience that is both demanding and gratifying because of its original world-building, deep character development, and perceptive societal critique. This novel serves as evidence of Jemisin’s extraordinary storytelling abilities and establishes her as a key figure in modern fantasy.

3. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo‘s Shadow and Bone is a notable introduction to the high fantasy genre, with its setting in the enthralling Grisha universe. This book, the first in the Grisha Trilogy, introduces us to a carefully constructed universe that is full of magic, conflict, and endearing characters.

With Alina Starkov, a young orphan and mapmaker in the devastated region of Ravka, Shadow and Bone takes us on a thrilling adventure. Alina’s dormant Grisha abilities are revealed during a routine trip across the Unsea, an area of darkness abounding with frightening monsters. She is thrust into a life of royal courts and intrigue as a result of the revelation, navigating a world of strong magic users and political intrigue.

The entire book showcases Bardugo’s mastery of creating entire worlds. The Grisha universe, which borrows from Tsarist Russia and offers a rich cultural backdrop, is immensely engrossing. A layer of social dynamics and hierarchy is added by the Grisha being separated into orders according to their abilities in the well-developed magic system.

As the story’s protagonist, Alina exemplifies a sympathetic mix of weakness and tenacity. The main plotline follows her transformation from an unloved, unnoticed orphan to a potential rescuer of Ravka. Alina’s character arc is expertly developed by Bardugo, who gives her metamorphosis realism.

General Kirigan, one of the most intriguing figures, provides complexity and intrigue. His enigmatic personality and complex relationship with Alina create an engrossing subplot. Bardugo expertly manages to maintain a precarious equilibrium while leaving readers guessing about his genuine motivations.

With action, intrigue, and spice of romance, the story develops at a steady pace. Bardugo’s writing style is engaging, complementing the narrative with vivid descriptions and evocative imagery. However, some plot developments seem predictable, slightly detracting from the overall impact.

Shadow and Bone is more than a tale of magic and adventure; it explores themes of power, identity, and the courage to embrace one’s potential. While certain tropes are familiar, Bardugo’s unique voice and intricate world-building make it a compelling read.

In conclusion, Shadow and Bone serves as a promising start to the Grisha Trilogy, enveloping readers in a world of magic, war, and the struggle for power. Bardugo has skillfully carved a niche within the high fantasy genre, setting the stage for an intriguing series to follow.

4. Eragon by Christopher Paolini

The first book in Christopher Paolini‘s Inheritance Cycle, Eragon, is a high fantasy story full of wonder and adventure. It tells the tale of Eragon, a young farm kid whose life dramatically changes once he unearths a magical dragon egg. The story develops as Eragon and Saphira, his dragon, are introduced to a magical, mythical, and hostile environment.

The detailed descriptions in Paolini’s stories bring the many landscapes and complex fights to life, and they add to the author’s engaging storytelling. Eragon and Saphira’s connection is endearing and gives both characters a sense of depth. The transformation of Eragon from a straightforward farm boy into a dragon rider is fascinating and full of lessons about bravery, loyalty, and the difficulties of power.

The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars are both clearly influences on the book, and some readers may find the plot to be a bit predictable. Despite this, Paolini’s youthful imagination gives the recognizable archetypes a freshness that makes the story enjoyable.

Although, at times, it could be overwhelming for certain readers, the world-building is intricate and deep, portraying several cultures and rich lore. The well-organized magical system in the novel adds a further degree of mystery to the story.

In conclusion, while using well-worn clichés, the high fantasy book Eragon presents a compelling story of adventure and coming-of-age. For fans of fantasy, it is a worthwhile book because of its colorful storytelling and fantastical setting.

5. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

Samantha Shannon wrote a massive stand-alone high fantasy epic titled The Priory of the Orange Tree. It is a unique take on the genre, successfully fusing conventional high fantasy aspects with modern concerns. It is bursting with detailed mythology, rich world-building, and a diverse cast of characters.

The story takes place in a world where religious differences and the resurgence of an old foe pose threats. The story is mostly told from the perspectives of Tane, a dragon rider in the East, and Ead Duryan, a lady-in-waiting on a covert mission in the matriarchal queendom of Inys. Shannon is able to present a thorough picture of the geopolitical landscape and the cultural differences that influence it because of her dual viewpoint.

The creation of the novel’s world is one of its finest assets. The Earth has a rich, multilayered lore with a thousand-year history. This lore is expertly woven into Shannon’s novel, adding just enough to make it more interesting without tiring the reader.

Each of the complicated personalities has their own problems and secrets. Tane’s aims and challenges offer a distinct viewpoint, while Ead’s bravery and tenacity make her a captivating heroine. The cast’s diversity is admirable, with representation from all ends of the gender, sexuality, and racial spectrum.

The vivid description of Shannon’s writing transports readers to her world, complete with sights, sounds, and sensations. Her action sequences, especially the dragon battles, are vivid and thrilling, while the more contemplative ones are rich with emotional nuance.

Feminist undertones in The Priory of the Orange Tree are noteworthy as well. Shannon questions conventional gender stereotypes by creating a universe in which women can be knights, kings, and villains, especially in the fantasy genre.

Some readers may find the length of the book overwhelming, and the pacing occasionally drags as the tale develops. But the investment was well worth it in the end.

In summary, The Priory of the Orange Tree is a masterfully written high fantasy book that provides a wholly engrossing reading experience. Samantha Shannon has produced a book that will satisfy fans of high fantasy and draw in new readers by weaving together a complex universe full of dragons, magic, political intrigue, and complex characters.

6. The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring is a legendary masterpiece that unquestionably establishes the benchmark for the high fantasy genre. This first installment of The Lord of the Rings trilogy spins a magnificent tapestry of fascinating, charming characters, minutely detailed world-building, and a big, sweeping tale that is both exciting and profound.

Middle-earth, a massive continent filled with various races, languages, histories, and cultures, is a marvel of Tolkien’s imagination. The reader is drawn into a world that seems immensely real and lived in thanks to its depth, which offers an intense reading experience.

The Fellowship of the Ring is fundamentally about a journey, both literally and figuratively. The reader is swept into themes of bravery, camaraderie, sacrifice, and the never-ending conflict between good and evil as the hobbit Frodo and his companions go off into the unknown.

The thick, descriptive style of Tolkien frequently requires the patience and attention of readers. However, it is precisely this depth and attention to detail that draw the viewer into his universe. This work stands as a tribute to Tolkien’s everlasting creativity and his lasting influence on fantasy literature with its eternal appeal and classic tale of bravery and adventure.

Here are some best high fantasy books for adults:

7. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

Immersing oneself in Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings – the first book in The Stormlight Archive – is like entering a vivid, vast mural where each and every stroke adds to the stunning tapestry of a painstakingly built world. This high fantasy novel delivers a cast of multifaceted people, a plot brimming with philosophical nuance, and a world that brilliantly demonstrates Sanderson’s talent for worldbuilding.

The story largely centers on three characters: Dalinar, a high prince plagued by enigmatic visions; Shallan, a scholar who wants to steal a magical relic to save her family; and Kaladin, a talented soldier turned slave. These three different viewpoints offer a wide-ranging and varied vision of the rocky, terrifying, and magically complex world of Roshar.

One of the most striking components of the book is its magic systems, Surgebinding and Soulcasting, whose workings are connected to Roshar’s natural forces and spiritual elements. The plot’s growth is built around Sanderson’s original view of magic, creating a broad framework for the series.

The protagonist of the book, Kaladin, has a very well-rounded personality. It is deeply moving to follow his journey from heroism to despair and the light of hope beyond. Another layer of intrigue is added by Dalinar’s conflict between his visions and his ethics in a corrupt political environment. Shallan’s plotline, though it initially seems unrelated to the main plot, gives the larger world and the foundations of its magic and history crucial background.

The world-building in Sanderson’s works is utterly captivating. He helps readers understand the size of Roshar and its diversity of cultures, special flora and fauna, and intricate history and mythology.

More than just an epic fantasy story, The Way of Kings also explores morality, human nature, and the tension between authority and responsibility. Readers may readily understand complex ideas and a large world thanks to Sanderson’s lucid and vivid writing.

8. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, the first book in The Kingkiller Chronicle, is a masterful venture into high fantasy that enthralls with its enthralling story, in-depth character development, and inventive magic system. This captivating story especially appeals to mature readers, bringing them into a gorgeously imagined world teeming with mystery and emotion.

Kvothe, a guy with many facets-a genius, a hero, a villain, and a myth-is first introduced to us by Rothfuss. Kvothe tells Chronicler, a writer, the tale of his life in the form of a memoir-style narrative. Rothfuss expertly crafts Kvothe’s story, compelling readers with his path of self-discovery, love, and retribution. From his happy upbringing in a troupe of traveling entertainers to the catastrophe that changes his destiny.

The unique method Rothfuss uses to deal with magic is what sets The Name of the Wind apart. Here, magic is both a science and an art, requiring both rationality and a thorough knowledge of nature. It’s a welcome change from the typical dramatic display of magical power frequently found in fantasy literature, and it particularly appeals to readers who are older.

Kvothe is a tragic figure who can be identified with. Both his intelligence and talent, as well as his frailties and shortcomings, are fascinating. The reading experience is made more interesting and engrossing by the depth that makes Kvothe feel incredibly human despite his exceptional powers.

The exquisite and poetic writing style of Rothfuss nicely matches the mood of the novel. His detailed descriptions bring the world of Kvothe to life in the reader’s imagination. This novel covers themes of knowledge, power, love, and grief in an enormous yet intimate story.

For adults looking for a sophisticated and compelling high fantasy experience, this book is a must-read because of the complexity of the plot and Rothfuss’s evocative writing.

9. Elantris by Brandon Sanderson

With a complex plot, well-rounded characters, and a unique magic system, Elantris, Brandon Sanderson’s first book, raises the bar for high fantasy while also delving deeply into themes of hope, change, and resiliency.

Adult readers will find it to be an interesting read due to the complexity and depth of the narrative. The action of the narrative occurs in and around Elantris, a once-magical and beautiful city that is now a ruin populated by cursed creatures.

The story revolves around three main characters: Prince Raoden, who is hidden under the Elantris curse; Sarene, a foreign princess who arrives to wed Raoden but discovers him to be dead; and Hrathen, a powerful priest determined to win the people over to his religion.

In its examination of the fascinating, complex magic system, Elantris excels. A sophisticated system of symbols and runes, whose comprehension is gradually revealed during the story, is connected to the lost splendor of Elantris and its power.

The innovative magic system that Sanderson developed lends a novel and captivating element to the narrative. The three characters are each distinct and well-developed, and their respective stories are intertwined in fascinating ways. While providing several viewpoints on the unfolding events, the narrative structure enables the reader to examine the characters’ complexity and development.

The novel becomes even more complex as a result of diverse views’ examination of politics, religion, and social structure. The reader is successfully given a mental picture of the world of Elantris via Sanderson’s clear and descriptive writing style.

Elantris is more than simply a story about magic and shady politics; it’s also showing the human spirit and the ability of hope to endure adversity. His novel promises to be a rewarding read for adult readers exploring the world of high fantasy or seasoned veterans of the genre.

10. Jade City by Fonda Lee

A captivating work of high fantasy literature, Jade City by Fonda Lee skillfully combines political intrigue with a distinct magic system based on jade. Each character gains depth and complexity as a result of the story’s exploration of the power struggles of the Kaul family, the clan’s leaders, and residents of the thriving city of Janloon.

Incorporating post-World War II modernity while keeping rich Asian cultural components, Lee’s world-building is amazing. The story begins slowly because of the detailed world-building and character introduction, but it quickly picks up speed as a web of alliances, betrayals, and surprising turns emerge. Overall, Jade City is an intriguing read for fans of adult high fantasy since it skillfully combines drama with fantasy.

11. The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

The first book in Robert Jordan’s sweeping high fantasy series, The Wheel of Time, The Eye of the World, introduces readers to a vast globe with intricate characters, highly detailed knowledge, and a massive story. The epic quest at the center of the book is set in a world that is like our own history but contains magical characteristics. It offers a colorful backdrop.

The story follows a group of young villagers on a perilous journey as they are thrust into a world that is much bigger and more frightening than they could have ever imagined. Rand al’Thor is one of these young villagers. By expertly fusing conventional fantasy themes, Jordan creates a gripping coming-of-age story that strikes the right mix between exhilarating action and introspective character development.

The world that The Eye of the World painstakingly creates is one of its most notable features. The world that Jordan creates is complicated, full of different civilizations, complex political systems, and a special magic system that adds dimension to the story. However, with so many characters and plot lines being presented, such intricacy can initially feel overwhelming.

Despite this, Jordan’s engaging writing style and the compelling plot hooks guarantee that you’ll be engrossed from beginning to end. Any admirer of the genre must read The Eye of the World since it promises an incredible high fantasy experience.

Whether you are looking for the best high fantasy books of all time or highest rated fantasy books for adults, our list of greatest epic fantasy novels of all time will always be your guide.

Final Thoughts

Unveil the magical realms with epic high fantasy books and be an avid reader. High fantasy is more than just a genre; it’s a trip that takes us through incredible worlds where magic flourishes and heroes ascend. It surpasses the bounds of our reality. We are mesmerized by the rich tapestry of these tales, and their profound ideas stay with us long after we turn the final page.

Each book listed here has a special attraction that leaves a long-lasting emotional imprint on us. They serve as a reminder of the courage needed to change our route in life as well as the power of resilience, the beauty of hope, the cost of power, and the price of power. These high fantasy works have the ability to draw us into their enchanted realms, where they continually challenge us and transform us.

The adventures are endless, and the world of high fantasy is limitless. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer to the genre, there is a tale waiting for you and a realm ready to welcome you. When you’re prepared to begin the voyage, turn to page one.