14 High Fantasy Standalone Books to Take a Break from Big Series

You know that amazing feeling when you dive into an epic or high fantasy series, right? Those enormous, sprawling books with maps on the first page and a character list as long as your arm. I love getting lost in those worlds, traveling with the characters over mountains, through enchanted forests, and fighting dragons or dark lords. It’s like stepping into a new life for a while.

However, high fantasy stories tend to be big series featuring three or more books, each having 3-400+ pages, and sometimes it’s too much to take. As a lifelong high fantasy lover, I also crave a fantasy standalone that tells an epic saga in a single book.

It’s fantastic to read a big series but also kind of exhausting sometimes, like going on a cross-country road trip, but instead of a chill vacation, it sometimes feels like you’re running a marathon, right?

Sometimes I crave the magic, the otherworldly romance, the adventure, the epic battles – but without the commitment of another multi-book series. If you are feeling the same right now, or feeling tired after a big series, or you just want a single, self-contained epic fantasy story, then you’re in the right place!

I’m about to share some of the best standalone fantasy books that you can read in a few days but will leave you thinking about them for a long time. It’s like watching a great movie or a mini-series: quick, satisfying, but still totally epic.

Here are 14 fantastic high-fantasy standalone books for you:

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

Let’s kick things off with a classic, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. Now, you may be thinking, Wait, isn’t that related to The Lord of the Rings? You’re not wrong. It’s set in the same fantastical world, Middle-earth, where tiny Hobbits, mighty wizards, and fearsome dragons roam. But here’s the cool part: The Hobbit stands strong all on its own.

This book follows Bilbo Baggins, a small creature with big courage who loves nothing more than a cozy home and good food. But when the wizard Gandalf and a band of rowdy dwarves come knocking, Bilbo finds himself on an adventure he never signed up for.

From riddle games in the dark with a creature named Gollum to battling giant spiders and escaping from grouchy goblins, this epic journey has it all. And let’s not forget the dragon Smaug, guarding a treasure that the dwarves are desperate to reclaim.

Despite being a prelude to the massive Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Hobbit is a complete tale from start to finish. It’s got friendship, bravery, and an underdog you’ll cheer for. It’s a thrilling adventure that doesn’t require you to commit to three more hefty books.

You can just kick back, flip open The Hobbit, and get swept up in a grand adventure in a single sitting. If you’re looking for an epic standalone fantasy that packs a punch, The Hobbit should be your go-to!

2. Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay is more than just a fantasy book; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of great adversities. In a world that’s both sensuous and barbaric, where a cruel king has wielded dark magic to erase the very name of a once-beautiful land from memory, hope endures. A group of courageous individuals dares to rise against this darkness.

Their mission? To liberate their people from their oppressors and bring back the long-lost name of their homeland: Tigana. Their journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty, but it’s their love for their land and their unwavering spirit that drives them forward.

From start to finish, Tigana offers a thrilling, self-contained tale that’s nothing short of breathtaking. It’s a masterclass in high fantasy, proving that an epic narrative can indeed be compressed into a single, unforgettable volume. Once you turn the last page, you’ll see fantasy fiction in a whole new light.

3. To Ride Hell’s Chasm by Janny Wurts

Venture into the fascinating world of To Ride Hell’s Chasm by Janny Wurts, where the sudden disappearance of a princess plunges a peaceful kingdom into a whirlwind of suspicion and peril. Taskin, the highly respected Commander of the Royal Guard, and Mykkael, the grizzled, battle-hardened Captain of the Garrison, are given the daunting task of finding the missing royal.

Their search uncovers not just a missing princess but a web of courtly intrigue and a looming, hidden terror. Could it be that the headstrong Princess Anja wasn’t taken but rather ran away to escape an evil force within the palace itself?

To Ride Hell’s Chasm is a perfect standalone fantasy where mystery, bravery, and political scheming blend to create an unforgettable tale. It’s rich narrative, and complex characters will make you rethink the power of a single-volume fantasy. A must-read for anyone yearning for a satisfying, self-contained epic.

4. The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip

Another remarkable entry on our list is The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip, a personal favorite of mine and a lauded gem in the high fantasy genre. This World Fantasy Award-winning novel is a captivating exploration of love, responsibility, human connection, and of course, fascinating magical creatures!

The story focuses on Sybel, a young woman who lives alone on Eld Mountain with only the company of magical beasts. Her solitude is shattered when she’s given a baby to raise, stirring emotions she never knew she possessed. But when the child’s deliverer, Coren, comes back into her life, Sybel’s tranquil world faces another upheaval.

This book is an excellent choice if you’re craving a powerful, standalone high fantasy tale. The writing style of the author is poetic, captivating, and magical. McKillip’s unique storytelling and memorable characters offer a singular, self-contained adventure you won’t want to miss.

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

5. Angel Mage by Garth Nix

Garth Nix is known as the author of one of the most acclaimed fantasy series, The Old Kingdom Trilogy – however, he has a high fantasy standalone that is equally amazing, and it’s called Angel Mage.

Have you ever found yourself immersed in a high fantasy tale that’s as breathtaking as it’s compelling? That’s what you’ll experience with this book. We follow the journey of Liliath, an extraordinary practitioner of angelic magic who, after a century of sleep, re-emerges unaged and focused on her quest to find her archangel lover, Palleniel.

Despite the tragic history of Ystara-where its people either perished from the Ash Blood plague or were mutated into beastlings-Liliath is single-minded in her goal. She has her eyes set on four unsuspecting Sarancians-Simeon, Henri, Agnez, and Dorotea. Each holds a piece of the puzzle she’s trying to solve, even if they don’t realize it themselves.

Angel Mage is a spellbinding standalone that explores love, fate, and the lengths one might go to for their heart’s desire. With complex characters and intricate plotlines, this book is a testament to the power of single-volume fantasy tales.

6. The Last Light of the Sun by Guy Gavriel Kay

As George RR Martin got inspired by the medieval history of Great Britain in the Song of Ice and Fire series, in his standalone The Last Light of the Sun, Guy Gavriel Kay got inspired by the Vikings.

If you are looking for a journey into the tumultuous era of Viking, Anglo-Saxon, and Celtic cultures, look no further than The Last Light of the Sun by Guy Gavriel Kay. This high fantasy standalone weaves a tale as gritty and harsh as the northern lands it depicts.

Life in the North is no silk road; it’s a battleground for survival, influenced by climate, territories, and generation-long feuds. The Vinmark Erlings, with their dragon-prowed ships, raid the lands of the Cyngael and Anglcyn, leaving a wake of fire and death. But as with everything, change is inevitable, even in the frosty north.

The tale is brought to life by characters like Bern Thorkellson, a man burdened by his father’s sins and seeking vengeance; King Aeldred of Anglcyn, a cunning ruler battling inner demons; and Alun ab Owyn of the Cyngael, a man caught between love and violence in a land of song and strife.

7. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

If you have ever wondered what happens when an outsider suddenly finds himself thrust into a world of power, intrigue, and dangerous plots, then The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison is the book for you. This high fantasy standalone follows the story of the youngest, half-goblin son of an Emperor who spent his entire life exiled from the glittering and lethal Imperial Court.

Everything flips upside down when a fatal accident eliminates his father and the three sons next in line for the throne. Unprepared and entirely unschooled in court politics, he now becomes the unexpected and only surviving rightful heir to the throne. Being a greenhorn amidst seasoned courtiers, he becomes an easy target for the looming shadows of unknown conspirators waiting for a chance to strike.

Amid this whirlwind of court politics, arranged marriages, and potential threats to his life, our Goblin Emperor must learn to navigate his new world – all while being utterly alone. If you’re up for a story of unexpected power, survival, and the search for friendship and romance in the most unlikely of places, then this high fantasy standalone is a must-read.

8. The Tower of Fear by Glen Cook

Get ready for a journey into the conflicted city of Qushmarrah with Glen Cook’s standalone high fantasy novel, The Tower of Fear. Under the oppressive reign of the Herodians, the city pulses with unease. These rulers, men of no remarkable stature or strength, came to power only due to a series of unfortunate events – the death of the mighty wizard Narkar, the betrayal of the fierce Datars, and the treachery from within the city.

The possibility of the return of the brutal old religion and the menacing resurgence of wizardry might not be the most comforting thought. Yet, for a few determined patriots, they might be willing to negotiate with this known evil if it means a chance at independence.

With its rich tapestry of dark fantasy, political upheaval, and the relentless quest for freedom, The Tower of Fear promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. It’s a perfect standalone high fantasy novel for those seeking an epic story centered around sacrifice and the desire for autonomy.

9. The Broken Sword by Poul Anderson

Dive into the realm of elves, giants, and mythical beings with Poul Anderson’s The Broken Sword. This tale follows the journey of Scafloc, a man of human origin but with an elven upbringing. He becomes the only hope for the elves in their looming war against the trolls.

To ensure their victory, they need the once-broken sword Tyrfing, the same weapon shattered by Thor, to protect Yggdrasil, the great tree connecting earth, heaven, and hell.

The task that falls to Scafloc is twofold – he must persuade Bolverk, the ice-giant, to restore Tyrfing and face Valgard, his doppelganger and the changeling who has taken his place among humans.

The Broken Sword merges high fantasy with mythology, crafting an enthralling story about identity, conflict, and fantastical warfare. If you’re searching for a standalone novel that is both mythical and mesmerizing, The Broken Sword should definitely be on your reading list.

10. Battle Mage by Peter A. Flannery

This one-part novel presents a world teetering on the edge of annihilation in the face of the Possessed’s burning shadow. The singular hope for its survival rests on the waning power of a battle mage and the ancient bond with dragon kind.

Yet, this connection is faltering as too many dragons answering the call are black, the sworn enemies of humankind, driven to insanity. In this chaotic landscape, we meet Falco Dante, a young man considered weak in a warrior’s world and burdened by his father’s madness. Stricken with grief, Falco makes a decision that drives him to despair’s brink.

Hoping to reclaim control, he joins his friends at the Academy of War, a school devoted to martial excellence. As his friends thrive, Falco grapples with self-doubt and insecurity; his progress is watched with skepticism even by Queen Catherine of Wrath.

While the Queen tries to unify the Kingdoms against the Possessed, Falco must face his fears. The question remains: will he unlock the latent power within himself or follow his father’s path to madness and murder? Peter A. Flannery’s Battle Mage is a gripping exploration of power, fear, and personal growth, set against a backdrop of epic fantasy warfare.

11. The War of the Flowers by Tad Williams

This one is a mix of high/epic and urban fantasy that features our known world and a fictional world created by the author. The story follows Theo Vilmos, whose life is about to spiral out of control.

A resident of Northern California, Theo is unsuspectingly plucked from his home and thrust into the dazzling, dangerous parallel world of Faerie. In this realm, not all is as it seems; magical and mysterious; Faerie is also a place of powerful lords, peculiar creatures, and simmering conflicts.

Unbeknownst to Theo, he is not merely an accidental tourist. He is a pivotal figure destined to play a significant role in a brewing war that threatens to disrupt the balance of power within the Faerie realm. Certain influential lords are gathering their strength, setting the stage for a struggle that will involve all of Faerie’s strange and diverse inhabitants.

In The War of the Flowers, Tad Williams masterfully constructs an alternate reality teeming with enchantment and intrigue. Through the lens of an unsuspecting outsider, the novel explores themes of destiny, power, and the often blurry line between good and evil. Join Theo on his unexpected journey, navigating a world as beautiful as it is perilous.

12. The Barbed Coil by J.V. Jones

Another standalone fantasy book that is a blend of urban and high/epic fantasy. In The Barbed Coil by J.V. Jones, you will meet Tessa McCamfrey, a young and unanchored Southern California resident, who unexpectedly finds herself transported into a new reality through a mysterious ring.

This isn’t the typical fantasy world; here, Tessa discovers a unique talent for crafting magical illustrations. Her art isn’t just beautiful; it’s luminous and powerful, capable of affecting the lives of others. What once seemed mundane is now brimming with magic, and Tessa finds herself thrust into the heart of a conflict that could decide the fate of kingdoms.

At the center of this tumultuous world is an evil king, his mind corrupted by a golden crown known as the Barbed Coil. The once noble ruler has become a tyrant, and the realm is in dire need of a savior. Enter Tessa, a stranger in a strange land whose newfound abilities could tip the scales.

Providing her protection in this alien world is the gallant mercenary, Ravis. Together, they will navigate a world filled with sailors, innkeepers, soldiers, and more; each brought to life by J.V. Jones’s masterful storytelling.

The Barbed Coil combines the allure of magical abilities with the stakes of political intrigue, creating a fascinating landscape for Tessa’s adventures. Each character, from the lead to the supporting roles, is imbued with a distinctive personality, a characteristic feature of Jones’s writing. The narrative promises to draw readers into a vibrant world that is as engaging as it is challenging.

13. Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher

Do you relish a riveting mix of horror, fairy tale, and fantasy? If so, then T. Kingfisher’s Nettle & Bone will be a perfect addition to your reading list. This engrossing tale, a nominee for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy (2022), artfully intertwines the dark and the whimsical in a narrative that will keep you gripped from beginning to end.

We follow the journey of Marra, the shy, convent-raised, third-born daughter who has spent years watching her sisters endure the cruelties of an abusive prince. When it becomes clear that no one will come to their aid, Marra decides to take matters into her own hands.

Her unlikely ally in this daunting task is a powerful grave witch who promises to provide Marra with the means to slay the prince. But there’s a catch-Marra must first complete three impossible tasks. As often is the case in stories of princes, witches, and daughters, the label of impossible merely serves as a starting point for a thrilling adventure.

Joining Marra on this quest are an odd assortment of companions: the grave witch herself, a fairy godmother who’s more reluctant than enthusiastic, a former knight, and a chicken possessed by a demon. Together, this unlikely band of heroes is determined to strangle the tyranny of the prince and liberate Marra’s family and their kingdom.

The combination of fantastical elements, chilling horror, and fairytale-like narratives in Nettle & Bone makes it a uniquely captivating read. Kingfisher’s engaging storytelling will draw you in, and the quest for justice will keep you turning the pages. So, if this blend of genres appeals to you, don’t miss out on this mesmerizing tale.

14. Alphabet of Thorn by Patricia A. McKillip

I’ve kept my personal best for the last – Alphabet of Thorn by Patricia A. McKillip. It’s not just one of my favorites, but it’s a real gem in the world of fantasy.

This book centers around Nepenthe, a young girl who lives in a magical castle and spends her time translating an ancient book written in a strange language of thorns. As she digs deeper into the book, she finds herself drawn into a tale of epic battles, legendary kings, and timeless love.

The characters are fantastic and really worth knowing about. Nepenthe, with her curiosity and bravery, is really inspiring. Then there’s Bourne, a fascinating young mage, and Axis, the master librarian. They all play a key role in the unfolding story and add depth to the plot.

One of the things that make this book stand out is McKillip’s writing. It’s simple yet poetic, and the way she describes her world is stunning. You’ll feel like you’re wandering through magical libraries, beautiful gardens, and mysterious towers as you flip through the pages.

If you’re looking for a standalone high fantasy book with a twist of magic and a sprinkle of romance, Alphabet of Thorn is a great choice. It’s engaging, beautifully written, and gives a whole new perspective to the power of words and stories.

Final Thoughts

This was my effort to help you find a perfect high-fantasy standalone book to read. The joy of reading fantasy, like any genre, is finding those stories that resonate with you. These books have been some of my favorite fantasy standalone, and I hope they can offer you the same enjoyment, intrigue, and wonder they have given me. Dive in, explore, and most importantly, happy reading!