Some fantasy novels don’t just tell a story; they shape the entire genre. From creating unforgettable worlds to introducing archetypes that would be imitated for decades, these books established the very foundations of modern fantasy. This list celebrates the ten most influential and enduring novels that defined the genre as we know it today. Now, let’s get started!
1. The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie
For those who enjoy the political intrigue and gritty realism of George R.R. Martin’s work but want something new, Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law trilogy is a fantastic alternative. The series kicks off with The Blade Itself, a gripping tale of power struggles between The Union, The Gurkish Empire, and the North. The story centers on a cast of morally complex characters, including the fearsome warrior Logen Ninefingers, the torturer Sand dan Glokta, and the arrogant nobleman Captain Jezal dan Luthar. With a more focused plot and character roster than some of its contemporaries, this novel is a brilliant start to a trilogy packed with conspiracy, violence, and action.
2. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series has become a cultural phenomenon, thanks in large part to its massive popularity on “BookTok.” The story begins when mortal huntress Feyre Archeron is taken to the faerie kingdom of Prythian after killing a wolf. She soon finds herself embroiled in a complex, troubled romance with High Fae leader Tamlin, as she discovers that her perceptions of the faerie world are based on lies. While some fantasy purists might dismiss the series for its easy readability, its ability to captivate a new generation of readers with its blend of romance and mythology is undeniable.
3. Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson, known for his masterful work completing Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time series, is also the creator of his own epic fantasy masterpiece, Mistborn. The first book, The Final Empire, introduces readers to the bleak, ash-filled world of Scadrial, ruled by a tyrannical emperor. Here, we meet Kelsier and Vin, two members of the oppressed Skaa race who discover they are “Mistborns”—individuals with the rare ability to wield magic. They dare to dream of overthrowing the oppressive regime, but uniting a world devoid of hope proves to be a monumental challenge.
4. The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin is one of the most celebrated modern fantasy authors, with five Hugo Awards to her name. Her acclaimed Inheritance Trilogy is a must-read, starting with her debut novel, The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms. The story follows Yeine Darr, a young woman from a conquered kingdom who is unexpectedly named an heir to the throne of the powerful and cruel Arameri family after her mother’s murder. Thrown into a world of political intrigue and divine conspiracy, Yeine must quickly learn to navigate this treacherous elite society while uncovering the truth behind her mother’s death.
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5. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
Collected in one volume, Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy—Northern Lights, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass—is a modern classic. The series follows young protagonists Lyra Belacqua and Will Parry, who journey across parallel universes to investigate a mysterious substance known as “Dust.” In doing so, they become entangled in a cosmic conflict with the sinister Magisterium, a powerful religious authority. The books are famous for their critical view of organized religion and their profound themes, making them a thought-provoking read for a wide audience.
6. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
Ursula K. Le Guin is a titan of fantasy and science fiction, and her six-part Earthsea series is a foundational work of the genre. The journey begins with A Wizard of Earthsea, which introduces a gifted but arrogant young mage named Ged. After his pride leads him to accidentally unleash a malevolent shadow creature, Ged must travel across the Earthsea archipelago to confront the darkness he has unleashed. Considered a precursor to modern fantasy novels like Harry Potter, this seminal work’s influence on the genre is immense.
7. Guards! Guards! by Terry Pratchett
For readers who like their fantasy with a generous dose of humor, Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series is a treasure trove. A great entry point is Guards! Guards!, which introduces the City Watch sub-series. The story follows the members of a disheveled police force in the city of Ankh-Morpork as they investigate a mysterious plot involving a dragon. Pratchett’s sharp wit, satirical commentary, and memorable characters make this a delightful and hilarious adventure that showcases why Discworld is one of the most beloved fantasy worlds ever created.
8. The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
Despite the mixed reception of the TV adaptation, Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time series remains a landmark of epic fantasy. The saga begins with The Eye of the World, a highly acclaimed first entry that introduces the powerful magic wielder Moiraine Damodred. She is searching for the “Dragon Reborn,” a prophesied figure who is the only hope of defeating an ancient evil known as The Dark One. This massive saga spans 15 novels and requires stamina, but the intricate world-building and rich narrative are a rewarding experience for any dedicated fantasy reader. The final three books were completed by Brandon Sanderson after Jordan’s passing.
9. A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
While the TV adaptation’s ending may have disappointed some, George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novels are essential reading. The series begins with A Game of Thrones, a sweeping epic of political maneuvering and deadly power struggles. The five existing novels are rich with world-building and intricate character arcs, following multiple point-of-view characters as they navigate a brutal world. The books contain a wealth of detail and narrative that couldn’t fit into the HBO series, making them a worthwhile read for fans of the show and newcomers alike.
10. The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien
It’s impossible to discuss fantasy without acknowledging J.R.R. Tolkien’s monumental masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. Published in 1954, the trilogy begins with The Fellowship of the Ring, which picks up decades after the events of The Hobbit. The story introduces a new protagonist, Frodo Baggins, and expands the world of Middle-earth in astonishing ways. The stakes are raised considerably, as Frodo and his companions must undertake a perilous quest to destroy the One Ring and prevent the dark lord Sauron from conquering the world. Tolkien’s work is a foundational text of the fantasy genre, and it remains a must-read for any fan of epic tales.