High Fantasy Books A Guide to the Best of the Genre
High fantasy is a sub-genre of fantasy that is characterized by epic and complex world-building, intricate plots, and larger-than-life characters. These books are often set in a completely fictional world with its own history, mythology, and rules of magic. High fantasy books have been popular since the early 20th century, and have inspired countless other works of fiction in a variety of mediums.
In this article, we will be taking a closer look at some of the best high fantasy books ever written, as well as what makes this genre so compelling.
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings is often considered to be the quintessential high fantasy book, and for good reason. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit from the peaceful Shire, as he sets out on a perilous journey to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the evil Sauron.
Some of the key features that make The Lord of the Rings so beloved include:
- Rich and detailed world-building, including a detailed history and mythology for Middle-earth
- Complex and well-developed characters, including Frodo, Sam, and Gandalf, who are all essential to the story
- Epic and immersive storytelling that draws readers into the world of Middle-earth
The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
The Wheel of Time is a sprawling epic that spans fourteen books and tells the story of a young man named Rand al’Thor, who discovers that he is the prophesied “Dragon Reborn” and must unite the warring factions of the world to fight against the forces of darkness.
Some of the key features that make The Wheel of Time so beloved include:
- Intricate and expansive world-building that includes multiple cultures, religions, and political systems
- A vast and diverse cast of characters, including Rand, Perrin, and Mat, who are all essential to the story
- A complex and multilayered plot that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end
A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
A Song of Ice and Fire is a dark and gritty series that takes place in the fictional world of Westeros, where the ruling houses are engaged in a brutal and bloody struggle for power. The story is told from multiple perspectives, and explores themes of power, politics, and morality.
Some of the key features that make A Song of Ice and Fire so beloved include:
- Complex and morally ambiguous characters, including Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, and Jon Snow
- A rich and detailed world-building that includes a complex history and mythology for Westeros
- A complex and multilayered plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats
- The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
The Malazan Book of the Fallen is a ten-book series that takes place in the fictional world of Malazan, and follows a large cast of characters as they navigate a world torn apart by war, magic, and political intrigue.
Some of the key features that make The Malazan Book of the Fallen so beloved include:
- A vast and intricate world-building that includes multiple cultures, religions, and political systems
- Complex and morally ambiguous characters, including Ganoes Paran, Karsa Orlong, and Anomander Rake
- A complex and multilayered plot that weaves together multiple storylines and themes
- The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
- A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
- The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss
The Kingkiller Chronicle is a three-book series that tells the story of Kvothe, a legendary wizard and musician, as he recounts his life story to a chronicler over the course of three days.
Some of the key features that make The Kingkiller Chronicle so beloved include:
- A compelling and enigmatic protagonist in Kvothe, whose life story is filled with tragedy, triumph, and mystery
- A richly detailed world that includes a complex system of magic and a variety of unique cultures and traditions
- A lyrical and poetic writing style that is as captivating as it is beautiful
The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
The Stormlight Archive is an ongoing series that takes place in the fictional world of Roshar, where the highstorms are deadly and magic is powered by gemstones. The story follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate a world on the brink of war and unravel the mysteries of the Knights Radiant.
Some of the key features that make The Stormlight Archive so beloved include:
- A vast and complex world-building that includes detailed maps, flora, fauna, and unique cultural traditions
- Complex and well-developed characters, including Kaladin, Shallan, and Dalinar, who are all essential to the story
- A fast-paced and action-packed plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats
The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
The First Law Trilogy is a grim and gritty series that explores the darker side of fantasy. The story takes place in a world where magic is rare and dangerous, and follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the treacherous political landscape of the Union.
Some of the key features that make The First Law Trilogy so beloved include:
- Complex and morally ambiguous characters, including Logen Ninefingers, Sand dan Glokta, and Jezal dan Luthar
- A dark and gritty tone that explores themes of violence, war, and corruption
- A fast-paced and tightly plotted story that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end
High fantasy books are beloved by readers all over the world, and for good reason. They offer epic and immersive storytelling, intricate world-building, and complex and well-developed characters. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or just discovering it for the first time, the books on this list are sure to transport you to new and exciting worlds.
