Let’s be serious, you never outgrow fantasy novels. In fact, there might be some on this list that are mostly read by teens, and that’s OK! You are never too old to dream.
Over the years, I’ve read hundreds of fantasy books/series. These are my all-time favorite that you won’t regret picking up! But warning, they are HARD to put down!
1. Throne of Glass (Series) by Sarah J Maas
Famous for her other series, Maas is a master of fantasy. The worlds she builds are so deep and thought out, it’s like a modern-day Lord of the Rings. There are no movies of her books yet, but hopefully, there will be in the future!
Throne of Glass is about an assassin who has been recruited from prison to play a game on the behalf of a king. It’s intriguing, and the book transforms before your very eyes into something out of this world.
This series is 7 books plus a companion novel, and once you get into the first book, you’re hooked. This is a must-read.
2. Lord of the Rings (Series) by J.R.R. Tolkien
Of course, Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien made the list. The guy practically invented fantasy. His books never go out of style, and even if you have seen the movie, there is still much to discover in the books.
The books are about a young Hobbit and his journey wielding a magical ring. Along the way, he will encounter all sorts of beasts and wars he, nor the reader, is expecting.
Start with the Hobbit, the prequel, and read the series all the way through. It may be tough to get into, but once you’re in, you’re in.
3. Gild (Series) by Raven Kennedy
Okay, so the first couple of chapters of this one will throw you off. It starts right in with highly sexual and suggestive content BUT stick with it until halfway through the book, and you won’t be able to set these down!
Do you remember the story of King Midas? This is a fantastic retelling of an old fairytale you probably forgot. The twists and turns are unlike any other, and while this book does have its’ share of sexy scenes, the plot is like no other.
There are currently 4 books in the series, with the 5th one being released in June 2023. That gives you plenty of time to get hooked before the release!
4. A Ruin of Roses (Series) by K.F. Breene
There is just something about a re-told fairytale that we can’t put down, especially if it is an all-new take.
This book is a dark spin on Beauty and the Beast involving shapeshifters, fairies, and dragons, and it has a little something for everyone. Warning, it is dark and has highly sexualized content, but you won’t get bored as you read this classic fairytale in a way you never imagined it.
There are 4 books in the series, and this one is finished, so you won’t be left hanging. Better just buy them all because the first book ends on a cliffhanger.
5. A Court of Thornes and Roses by Sarah J Maas
This is the more popular series by Sarah J Maas, but to be honest, Throne of Glass is way better. This, however, is still a great read, especially for those just dipping their toes in adult fantasy.
A girl hunts a wolf in the woods one night to feed her hungry family. Unfortunately, that wolf was a magical beast, and his friend shows up to demand she come as a prisoner as punishment. Love blooms, but plans change, and this series will have you on board for a wild ride.
With 4 books plus a companion novel, this is another series that is finished that you won’t want to let go. There are no movies yet, but we suspect there may be in the future, so definitely read these before you have to hear spoilers from idiots who just watched the movie!
6. Midnight Sun by Stephanie Meyer
Yes, Twilight was out a while ago, and we know that, but this companion novel by Stephanie Meyer captured our hearts.
Read Twilight from Edward’s point of view. It’s amazing, heart-wrenching, and full of surprises, although we already know the tale.
Although this is technically part of a series, we think the rest of the books are trash. Just read Midnight Sun.
7. The Hunter’s Moon (Series) by O.R. Melling
There is nothing like a fantasy book that deals just with Fairies. To be fair, while we love this book and series it is the least steamy on the list and is designed for teens. But that being said, it is still a great story.
When two girls go backpacking in Ireland, they don’t know that they backpack during the time when the veils between the worlds are weakest. As a result, one of the girls is taken prisoner by a fairy king.
There are 4 books in this series, but because they are written for young teens, you’ll have no problem finishing them in a few days.
8. Game of Thrones (Series) by George R. Martin
Yes, we know there is a TV series, but there is nothing quite like a good book! Plus, there is a lot in the book that you can’t find in the TV show.
Follow kings and queens as they battle for lands and change alliances and find out details of the famous battle that you never knew existed.
The series currently has 5 books, but the author reportedly has more in store!
Do you recommend a fantasy series or book that you don’t see on this list? Let me know! I am always looking for more books to read!
The original article is posted on HopeEDavis.com and is posted here with permission. Hope E Davis is a ghostwriter for hire that can make all of your writing dreams come true, whether you want to write fiction, non-fiction, or even fantasy.
