Good Fantasy Books
This section lists fantasy books that are definitely worth reading. While they aren't the best of the best, the books are still very enjoyable. If you've read all the books in the Top 25 Fantasy Books list and Great Fantasy Books list and the Top 25 Best Stand Alone Fantasy Books, you should check out the books on this list.
Eyes of a God (John Marco)
Book Flap Description
An exciting new addition to the DAW list, The Eyes of God is the most important work to date from John Marco, the acclaimed, award-winning author of The Jackal of Nar...
The first fantasy book in a major new fantasy series, The Eyes of God is a bold, richly textured epic filled with Arthurian elements, diverse magic, war, intrigue, romance and deception.
Very well written fantasy series. Expect the usual grey characterization endemic to all of John Marco's books. Read the other two sequels "Devil's Armor" and "Sword of Angels."
Weavers of Saramyr (Chris Wooding )
Amazon Description
This is the story of the ancient empire of Saramyr -- an empire that rules over a land overwhelmed by evil. The evil comes from within the empire's center: the Weavers, a sect of male magicians close to the throne, intent on killing any child born with magical powers. But now the Empress has given birth to just such a child and a revolution is brewing.
Written by young publishing phenomenon Chris Wooding, The Braided Path is a dark, manga-influenced fantasy of a terrifying world--a world across which plays a spellbinding plot of power, violence, and betrayal. Still in his twenties, Chris Wooding has published 18 books, including the Broken Sky series, which has sold more than 200,000 copies in the U.S. alone. He is also a winner of Britain's prestigious Silver Smarties Prize for his acclaimed novel, The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray, which he is now adapting for a Hollywood film.
A fantasy series set in an elaborately detailed medieval Asian landscape. The book has two very well drawn female protagonists. These are some great fantasy books that don't get enough recognition.
Seven Sons (Curt Benjamin)
Benjamin does something unique: he creates an epic fantasy based in an Asian
(Chinese mythology) setting. Very good series -- sort of like a Robert Jordan
(not as big though!) type of story in ancient China. It's a trilogy.
The Banned and the Banished (James Clemens)
Book Flap DescriptionOn a fateful night five centuries ago, three mages made a desperate last stand, sacrificing everything to preserve the only hope of goodness in the beautiful, doomed land of Alasea. Now, on the anniversary of that ominous night, a girl-child ripens into the heritage of lost power. But before she can even comprehend her terrible new gift, the Dark Lord dispatches his winged monsters to capture her and bring him the embryonic magic she embodies. Fleeing the minions of darkness, Elena is swept toward certain doom--and into the company of unexpected allies. There she forms a band of the hunted and the cursed, the outcasts and the outlaws, to battle the unstoppable forces of evil and rescue a once-glorious empire . . .
Those who like their fantasy dark will love this series. Set in a world without hope, where man is prey to terrible monsters, The Banned and the Banished is thrilling (and chilling) ride. The pacing is quite brisk, almost thriller like (if you can ignore the unnecessary apostrophes the author uses).
War of the Flowers (Tad William)
Tad Williams is an amazing writer. His Memory, Sorrow, Thorn books made the Top 25 list. War of the Flowers is an adult fairy tale. Strong writing and a great plot made this novel hard to put down. It's a standalone novel (rare these days in fantasy).
Similar Recommendations
Read Tad William's other works.
Dragon Crown War Cycle (Michael A. Stackpole)
This High Fantasy series has gone under the radar for some reason. It's fantasy in the classic epic tradition. A band of heroes strives against an all-powerful sorceress. Most prominent feature in this four book saga is the graphic violence. These books are full of blood--too much in fact. After a while the constant fighting becomes weary. Still, if you are looking for some epic fantasy that's heavy on the action, and above average characterization, give this saga a shot. I found this series much better then average and perhaps underrated.
Similar Recommendations
If you like the Dragon Crow War, definitely read the prequel book: When Dragon's Rage. If you like the epic tradition of the Dragon Crown War, you'll love Robert Jordan's A Wheel of Time, which is a much entertaining (but so much longer) series.
Age of Reason (Greg Keyes)
An alternate colonial America where magic works. This book wins the unique fantasy award -- I really haven't seen anything else out there like
this series. Most Fantasy worlds are based (somewhat) on Tolkien's world. Keyes' combination of
a colonial America with fantasy elements makes this series very interesting. Those looking for some unique fantasy books, give this series a gander.
Similar Recommendations
If you like the alternative American history theme of the novel, then read Orson Scott Card's Alvin Maker series which is also set in an alternate colonial America where magic works. If you want the alternate American history without magic, give Harry Turtledove a try.
Shadow of a Lion (Mercedes Lackey, Dave Freer, Eric Flint)
Book Flap Description
Venice, 1537...A rampaging monster sent by the Lord of Demons is terrorizing the masses. Now, a failed magician, a reluctant prince, an orphaned outcast, a dangerous beauty, and a conflicted priest must make an uneasy alliance beneath the shadow of the great winged Lion--or all will be consumed by an evil greater than anyone has ever known.
Rich and complex high fantasy, set in an alternate Venice. Somewhat slow, especially at the beginning, but a nice long read for that rainy day. Book gets very good if you stick with it. I'm generally not a fan Lackey's books (I feel they are cliche and not very well written). Of all her fantasy books, this one is, I feel, is her best.
Book of Words (J.V. Jones)
Great read, though inferior to her latest saga: Sword of Shadows. A merge between epic fantasy,
heroic fantasy, and sword & sorcery. An obscure baker's apprentice finds he has the extremely
rare gift of sorcery. Sounds like your standard "epic fantasy clone" but Jones draws her characters
more clearly than most sword & sorcery novels and the story, at its core, sucks in your interest.
The books are well paced with a heavy impetus of action. An addictive series that's very much worth the read -- just
as long as you know you are getting the standard fantasy epic.
Similar recommendations
Read Jones' Sword of Shadows saga, a complex and brutal fantasy series that's made my Top 25. It's much better then her Book of Words series and shows how much Jones has improved as an author.
Aldebreshin Compass (Juliet E. Mckenna)
This saga is a nice change from standard fantasy. It's set in a Mediterranean milieu -- rich, complex, and full of exotic mystery. Overall, a great read.
British author McKenna, already known for her Tales of Einarinn series, is bound to earn plenty of new fans with her U.S. hardcover debut. Although the folk of the vast Aldabreshin Archipelago live by portents and auguries, they fear magic, to the point of executing those felt to be tainted by it. After brutal magical attacks from the south push the Archipelago's citizens to near panic, fair-minded warlord Daish Kheda strives to forge an alliance with his fellow warlords, but petty squabbles stand in the way. When another warlord attempts to murder Kheda and his family in their sleep, Kheda disappears, letting his enemies as well as allies assume he's dead. An original and intriguing setting, impressive world-building and compelling writing set McKenna's work apart from a field thick with far less ambitious fantasy works. Fans of Rosemary Kirstein and Robin Hobb will enjoy this book.
Saga of Recluse (L. E. Modesitt Jr.)
A really, really big fantasy saga, were each story is discrete. Interesting magic system. The books even include sound effects! Worth reading. I recommend you start with The Death of Chaos, then if you like the series, go back and read the entire thing sequentially. If you like his Recluse books, also try his Corean Chronicles series. You will find, if you read his saga, most of the books follow the same pattern: callow, powerless lad sets out in the world, learns to use magic, becomes hero. He certainly won't be accused of being original, but if you enjoy that sort of tale, give him a shot. He writes good, if unoriginal, books. His magic system is an original one, and very interesting.
Wizard's First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
Despite Goodkind's ever increasing decent into the lowest tiers of quality, his first book is pretty good if you can live with the author's almost juvenile writing skills. Regrettably, Goodkind has a disturbing fascination of rape and the torture of women--which he practically shoves down your throat every few pages; though to be fair, it's within the context of the greater story. Not recommended for the kiddies! His first 6 books are worth reading, after that, you will have more fun mowing the lawn.
The Sun Sword saga (Michelle West)
Epic in the tradition of Robert Jordan. The characters are well drawn, at cost of the story's pacing. You will either love West or hate her style. If you are the type of person who likes characterization over fast pacing, you will probably like West's epic saga. Her books are unique and worth reading (if you can stomach her ponderous writing style).
In Legend Born (Laura Resnick)
Outstanding characterization. Resnick really knows how to write realistic characters. Most of the characters are painted in shades of grey. Her plot is enticing, and after the first few chapters, moves along with the speed and intensity of a freight train. I would hesitate to call this romance fantasy, although it does contain trace elements of the epic cliques. This series is unique enough to stand apart from the epic fantasy clone crowd and the characterization is some of the best you will find in fantasy literature. If you are in a mood for an action packed thrill ride, full of deep characterization, you can't go wrong with this trilogy.
Other Recommendations
If you are looking for more book recommendations, check these related lists out.
- Top 25 Best Fantasy Books
- Great Fantasy Books
- Best Fantasy Series
- Top 25 Best Stand Alone Fantasy Books
- Vampire Books
Do you have your own fantasy book recommendations? Do you disagree with this list? Do you agree? Share your comments below!
Im very confused why a lot of excellent series didnt make the list. Maybe some are just good to me but i would imagine their would be more. Like...
Green Riders Series.
Rangers Apprentice
Warriors Heir
Age of Fire Series (Not the best but should have made the good list at least or the kids list)
and finally, The Lost Gate. (Its not a series yet the second book is still being worked on but it is well written none the less.
The Good Fantasy Book list is in need of an update. I will remedy that within the next month or so 
Kristen Britain's Green Rider series is really good too.
I'm really surprised that Watership Down did not make ANY of the author's lists. Perhaps the writer of this blog has not read it. It's basically the Lord of the Rings of animal novels. One Amazon review said it best: "if JRR Tolkien (or Neil Gaiman, perhaps) had written The Wind in the Willows..."
Regarding some of the other comments: The author of this blog hates Dragonlance / Salvatore. Also, he has placed "yougn adult" fantasy in a separate category and very few of them make it on the other lists (Narnia I think is one, probably due to being a personal favorite). He puts His Dark Materials, Eragon etc. under young adult.
As for books like Brandon Sanderson, they're in his top 25. Everything under his top 25 is on this page or the one above it ("Great" fantasy). No idea why Watership Down is out, though... Also, there's a bit of a bias towards works published in the last 20-30 years. The author has read tons of works unlike me, so he should take pains to review the classics.
I'm really surprised that Watership Down did not make ANY of the author's lists. Perhaps the writer of this blog has not read it. It's basically the Lord of the Rings of animal novels. One Amazon review said it best: "if JRR Tolkien (or Neil Gaiman, perhaps) had written The Wind in the Willows..."
Regarding some of the other comments: The author of this blog hates Dragonlance / Salvatore. Also, he has placed "yougn adult" fantasy in a separate category and very few of them make it on the other lists (Narnia I think is one, probably due to being a personal favorite). He puts His Dark Materials, Eragon etc. under young adult.
As for books like Brandon Sanderson, they're in his top 25. Everything under his top 25 is on this page or the one below it ("Good" fantasy). No idea why Watership Down is out, though... Also, there's a bit of a bias towards works published in the last 20-30 years. The author has read tons of works unlike me, so he should take pains to review the classics.
I'm really surprised that Watership Down did not make ANY of the author's lists. Perhaps the writer of this blog has not read it. It's basically the Lord of the Rings of animal novels. One Amazon review said it best: "if JRR Tolkien (or Neil Gaiman, perhaps) had written The Wind in the Willows..."
Regarding some of the other comments: The author of this blog hates Dragonlance / Salvatore. Also, he has placed "yougn adult" fantasy in a separate category and very few of them make it on the other lists (Narnia I think is one, probably due to being a personal favorite). He puts His Dark Materials, Eragon etc. under young adult.
As for books like Brandon Sanderson, they're in his top 25. Everything under his top 25 is on this page or the one below it ("Good" fantasy). No idea why Watership Down is out, though... Also, there's a bit of a bias towards works published in the last 20-30 years. The author has read tons of works unlike me, so he should take pains to review the classics.
Oops, sorry for the triple post, there was a glitch in the software. please delete the extras.
I would have thought that John Flannagans Ranger's Apprentice would have made it here. Millions of people have loved that series and it is really good. It's ten books so you really should look into it. It's Jjust amazing.
I'm really surprised that Watership Down did not make ANY of the author's lists. Perhaps the writer of this blog has not read it. It's basically the Lord of the Rings of animal novels. One Amazon review said it best: "if JRR Tolkien (or Neil Gaiman, perhaps) had written The Wind in the Willows..."
Regarding some of the other comments: The author of this blog hates Dragonlance / Salvatore. Also, he has placed "yougn adult" fantasy in a separate category and very few of them make it on the other lists (Narnia I think is one, probably due to being a personal favorite). He puts His Dark Materials, Eragon etc. under young adult.
As for books like Brandon Sanderson, they're in his top 25. Everything under his top 25 is on this page or the one below it ("Good" fantasy). No idea why Watership Down is out, though... Also, there's a bit of a bias towards works published in the last 20-30 years. The author has read tons of works unlike me, so he should take pains to review the classics.
That's a decent list. Like it. At least I have a good idea now what books to go for and read right away! Keep up the fine work!
Another interesting fantasy book you might want to look into is Sean Wadley's the Legend of Rudwin. It's a nice story, and quite inventive. I think there will be a few fantasy fans who might enjoy reading it. Especially if you are a fan of Tolkien-like books.
Anyway, I shall keep looking about, and see what new good stuff appears.
le. modesitt has the recluse saga i find it great there is also the gor books that i like very much.
I think Dave Duncan deserves at least a mention in the good fantasy section, especially if "sword of truth is here" *shudder*
"A man of his Word" is one of my favourite fantasy series ever written, the sequel is fantastic, too, and the trilogy "the seventh sword" is what made me fall in love with reading fantasy. The Kings Blades are great - in fact, I have yet to read a bad book written by Duncan...
I agree that Dave Duncan deserves mention. I have loved his stories since I was a kid and have enjoyed reading them through a number of times.
I would argue that David Gemmell deserves at least an honorable mention on the "Good" list. Many of his books are similar in story, but Legend and Waylander are fun easy reads. I would definitely recommend them to anyone interested in dipping their toe into the waters that are the fantasy genre.
does no one read Dragon Lance anymore? Those are the books that started my love of fantasy.
No Brandon Sanderson? Quite possibly one of the best young authors in the genre. A unique writing style and excellent imagery. Try Elantris on for style.
I am suprised not a single salvatore series is listed saddened by the fact actually. He has created one of the most loved characters in the fantasy world and not a mention.
Im sad that "His dark material" triology didnt even make it here. The movie, "golden compass" does it no good.
No Steven Brust and his Vladimir Taltos series?
Personally I would have to add the Inheritance cycle in there too. Those are the books about Eragon and Saphira, his dragon. I am waiting on the 4th book to be released, but the first and third books are SO GOOD! The third is kind of a lull, the only action is with Eragon's cousin Roran and the battle at the Burning Plains at the end of the book.
Some of my favorite books have always been the Firekeeper Trilogy by Jane Lindskold. I would love to see it make one of the lists. I have also enjoyed many young adult authors such as Diana Wyne Jones (Howl's moving castle, Darklord of Derkhelm, and the Chronicles of Chrestomanci) as well as the Percy Jacson series (I don't remember the author, but they are very similar to Harry Potter using mythology and the Greek Gods instead of witchcraft.)
just to coment if you like a new and realy good magic fantsy read the furys sceryes (furyes of culdron, ackdems fury, and so forth) also 5 stars for the night angle sceries. i am 16 and i cant realy find any new good fantsy books ive read all the popler ones and the unheard of ones and thoes are the best of 2010 for me
The James Clemens Witch series was very good. The series is complete and all in paper back so if you like witch magic I highly reccomend this series. Im glad to see it on the list.
Can't believe the John Shannow trilogy didn't rate a mention. Shannow would have to be one of the best heroes going round! Gemmell's book are short sharp and too the point, great for breaking the sometime monotony of a multi-volume epic.
I havent seen him mentioned anywhere, so I just thought Id point out that you are missing a very succesful author, Brian Jaques. He is what got me hooked on fantasy books years ago. He is a very good candidate for at least the good fantasy books.