50 Highest Rated Fantasy Books To Read In 2024

If you love popular, highly-rated fantasy novels, check out this list of books. These are the top-rated fantasy books according to Goodreads. I’ve been creating blog posts featuring highest rated novels, including top-rated thrillers and most rated beach reads. I hope this list helps you read more fantasy books in 2024!

1. The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

In the tranquil Shire, young Frodo Baggins inherits the One Ring from his elderlycousin Bilbo. This ring, forged by the Dark Lord Sauron, holds immense power and the potential for great evil. With the guidance of the wizard Gandalf, Frodo sees off on a perilous journey to destroy the ring by casting it into the Cracks of Doom in Mount Doom, the only place it can be unmade.

2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter, a neglected orphan living with his cruel aunt and uncle, discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. A giant named Hagrid delivers this revelation along with an invitation to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. At Hogwarts, Harry befriends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, learns about his parents’ legacy, and encounters various magical creatures and spells. He also uncovers the mystery of the Sorcerer’s Stone, an artifact with the power to grant immortality, and faces the dark wizard Voldemort, who killed his parents and now seeks the stone to regain his power.

3.The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

On the storm-ravaged world of Roshar, society has adapted to relentless tempests. The mystical Shardblades and Shardplate, remnants of the fallen Knights Radiant, are sought after for their extraordinary power. The story follows three main characters: Kaladin, a former medical apprentice turned slave; Brightlord Dalinar Kholin, a war commander plagued by visions of the past; and Shallan, a young woman seeking to steal a powerful artifact.

4.The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit living a quiet life in the Shire, is thrust into an unexpected adventure when the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves arrive at his doorstep. Bilbo reluctantly joins their quest to reclaim the dwarves’ homeland from the dragon Smaug. Along the journey, Bilbo encounters trolls, goblins, and giant spiders, and discovers a magical ring that grants invisibility. Through his bravery and cunning, Bilbo helps the dwarves achieve their goal and grows into a hero, setting the stage for the events of The Lord of the Rings.

5. A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

In the land of Westeros, where seasons can last decades, the struggle for the Iron Throne ensues. The novel follows several noble families, including the honorable Starks of Winterfell, as they navigate political intrigue, betrayal, and war. As Eddard Stark becomes the king’s Hand, he uncovers dangerous secrets that threaten the realm. To the north, beyond the Wall, supernatural forces gather, while across the sea, the exiled princess Daenerys Targaryen seeks to reclaim her birthright.

6.Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Celaena Sardothien, an infamous assassin, is given a chance at freedom by competing to become the king’s champion. Summoned from a labor camp, she faces twenty-three deadly opponents in a contest to win her release. Supported by the Crown Prince Dorian and the Captain of the Guard Chaol, Celaena uncovers dark forces within the glass castle. As her competitors are killed one by one, she must not only survive the competition but also unravel the mystery behind the evil lurking in the castle, all while battling her own inner demons.

7.The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Kvothe, a legendary figure known for his magical prowess and dramatic life, recounts his story to a Chronicler. From his early days as a traveling performer, through his survival as an orphan in a dangerous city, to his audacious entry into a prestigious school of magic, Kvothe’s journey is fraught with challenges. His quest for knowledge, driven by a desire to uncover the truth behind his parents’ murder, leads him into conflicts with powerful enemies and deep into the arcane secrets of his world. His tale is one of ambition, resilience, and the high cost of seeking greatness.

8. Assassin’s Apprentice  by Robin Hobb

Fitz, the illegitimate son of Prince Chivalry, is raised in the royal household but remains an outsider. With a unique ability called the Wit, which allows him to bond with animals, Fitz finds solace in the companionship of his animal friends. As he grows, he is trained in the arts of assassination to serve the kingdom. Struggling with his dual identity and the perils of his training, Fitz must navigate the treacherous politics of the court, his own burgeoning powers, and the dangerous missions assigned to him, all while seeking to understand his place in the world.

9.The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Siblings Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy stumble upon the magical land of Narnia through an old wardrobe in the home of an eccentric professor. In Narnia, they discover a land under the spell of the White Witch, who has cast it into perpetual winter. Guided by the noble lion Aslan, they join the fight to free Narnia from the Witch’s tyranny. Along the way, they encounter talking animals, mythical creatures, and ancient prophecies, ultimately embracing their destinies as the kings and queens who will restore peace and harmony to Narnia.

10.Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

In the bustling city of Ketterdam, criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker is offered a chance to pull off an impossible heist that could make him incredibly wealthy. To succeed, he assembles a diverse crew: Inej, a stealthy spy; Jesper, a sharpshooter with a gambling problem; Nina, a Grisha with magical abilities; Matthias, a former soldier with a grudge; and Wylan, a runaway with a talent for demolitions. As they navigate treacherous territories and face formidable foes, the group’s loyalty and skills are tested. Their mission could change the balance of power in their world, if they can survive it.

11.The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Orphaned Locke Lamora grows up in the criminal underworld of Camorr, learning the art of thievery under the guidance of a master con artist. As the leader of the Gentleman Bastards, Locke becomes infamous for his elaborate heists. However, when a deadly adversary known as the Gray King threatens the city’s criminal hierarchy, Locke finds himself caught in a deadly game. To protect his friends and outwit his enemies, he must employ all his cunning and bravery, navigating a world of deception, betrayal, and brutal power struggles.

12.The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

Moiraine Damodred, a powerful Aes Sedai, arrives in the village of Emond’s Field searching for the one who can stand against the Dark One. She discovers Rand al’Thor and his friends, who are thrust into a world of prophecy and danger. Pursued by terrifying creatures, they must leave their home and journey across a land fraught with peril. As they encounter allies and enemies, they begin to uncover their destinies and the pivotal roles they will play in the battle against the encroaching darkness threatening to consume their world.

13.Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Young Tristran Thorn lives in the village of Wall, which borders the magical land of Faerie. To win the heart of his beloved Victoria, Tristran vows to retrieve a fallen star. His quest leads him into Faerie, where he discovers that the star is a living being named Yvaine. As he navigates the enchanting and perilous world, Tristran encounters witches, creatures, and dangers beyond his imagination. Along the way, he learns about courage, love, and his own identity, realizing that his adventure is far more than he initially bargained for.

14.The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson, a troubled twelve-year-old, learns he is the son of Poseidon and a demigod. Sent to Camp Half-Blood for protection, he discovers his heritage and trains with other demigods. When Zeus’s lightning bolt is stolen, Percy is accused and given ten days to return it and prevent a war among the gods. Accompanied by his friends Annabeth and Grover, he embarks on a dangerous journey across the United States, facing monsters and uncovering secrets about his family and his own potential.

15.The Princess Bride by William Goldman

In this humorous and adventure-filled tale, Buttercup, the most beautiful woman in the world, falls in love with her farm boy, Westley. When Westley is reported dead, Buttercup is forced to marry Prince Humperdinck. However, Westley returns as the Dread Pirate Roberts to rescue her. Along the way, they encounter memorable characters like Inigo Montoya, a swordsman seeking revenge, and Fezzik, a gentle giant. The story, filled with fencing, fighting, true love, and miracles, is a whimsical commentary on fairy tales and romance.

16. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Richard Mayhew’s life changes dramatically when he helps a mysterious girl named Door, leading him into London Below, a hidden realm beneath the city. In this strange and dangerous world, Richard encounters bizarre characters and faces numerous trials as he aids Door in her quest to discover who killed her family. Along the way, Richard seeks to find his way back to his normal life, but discovers that his experiences in London Below have irrevocably altered his destiny.

17. Good Omens by Terry Pratchett

According to the Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, the world is set to end next Saturday, just after tea. This time, it seems like the apocalypse is real as the armies of Good and Evil are gearing up for a final showdown. The Four Bikers of the Apocalypse are ready to ride, but both an angel named Aziraphale and a demon named Crowley, who have grown rather fond of Earth, aren’t too keen on the idea of the world ending. To complicate matters, someone has misplaced the Antichrist, a young boy who should be at the center of these end-times events. As the end of the world approaches, Aziraphale and Crowley must navigate this chaos to avert the apocalypse.

18.The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Le Cirque des Rêves, a magical circus, appears without warning and is open only at night. Inside its black-and-white tents, extraordinary performances await. Behind the scenes, a fierce competition is unfolding between two young magicians, Celia and Marco. Trained since childhood for this duel by their enigmatic instructors, they are unaware that only one can emerge victorious. Despite the stakes, Celia and Marco fall deeply in love, complicating the contest. Their romance influences the entire circus and its performers, as the fate of everyone involved hangs precariously on the outcome of their magical battle.

19. Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson

In the world of Hallandren, two princesses, Vivenna and Siri, face their destinies involving the God King Susebron, the reluctant god Lightsong, and the enigmatic Vasher. Those who die heroically return as gods, confined to the pantheon in the capital. Magic, known as BioChromatic Breath, enables miracles through drawing upon the color in objects. Vivenna and Siri must navigate political intrigue and personal challenges, using their wits and the power of Breath. As they struggle with their roles and relationships, they uncover deeper truths and work to avert potential disaster.

20. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder

Yelena, condemned to execution for murder, is offered a chance to live by becoming the food taster for the Commander of Ixia. However, the chief of security feeds her Butterfly’s Dust, a poison requiring a daily antidote, ensuring her compliance. As Yelena adapts to her dangerous new role, she discovers hidden magical abilities. Amidst brewing rebellion and assassination attempts, she must make critical choices to survive and protect those she cares about, all while grappling with her newfound powers and the complexities of her past.

21. Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Katsa, a Graceling with the power to kill, has served as the king’s enforcer since she was eight. Her life changes when she meets Prince Po, who reveals secrets about her Grace and the true nature of her abilities. As Katsa and Po journey together, they uncover a terrible secret that could threaten the stability of the seven kingdoms. Their adventure is filled with danger, discovery, and romance, challenging Katsa to confront her identity and the limits of her power. The story blends elegant prose, thrilling action, and a captivating romance, creating an unforgettable fantasy adventure.

22.Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

In 1878, Tessa Gray enters London’s dark supernatural underworld in search of her missing brother. She finds unexpected allies in the Shadowhunters, particularly Will and Jem. Together, they confront the Pandemonium Club, a secret group of vampires, demons, warlocks, and humans who aim to control the British Empire with a magical army of clockwork creatures. Tessa and her new friends must stop them to protect their world.

23.The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

Logen Ninefingers, a notorious barbarian, is out of luck and on the brink of death. Jezal dan Luthar, a selfish nobleman, dreams of glory but is unprepared for the brutal realities of war. Inquisitor Glokta, a crippled torturer, seeks to uncover corruption in the government. Enter Bayaz, a wizard whose presence complicates their lives. Murderous conspiracies and bloody battles ensue, blurring the line between heroes and villains.

24.The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

Jude, taken to the High Court of Faerie after her parents’ murder, desperately wants to belong despite being mortal. She faces disdain from the fey, especially from Prince Cardan. To earn a place at the Court, Jude must defy Cardan and navigate palace intrigues. As she uncovers her own potential for deception and violence, Jude must risk everything to save her sisters and Faerie itself from betrayal and chaos.

25. Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce

Alanna of Trebond, disguised as a boy, embarks on her journey to knighthood. Switching places with her twin brother Thom, who wants to learn magic, Alanna trains as a page at King Roald’s castle. Along the way, she masters battle skills, learns to control her emotions, and discerns friends from foes. Her adventures set the stage for her destiny as a legendary knight and magic wielder.

26.The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

A pilot stranded in the desert meets an extraordinary little boy who asks him to draw a sheep. Through their interactions, the pilot learns about the mysteries of life and the importance of seeing with the heart. This timeless fable, filled with whimsical illustrations, teaches readers of all ages the essential truths about love, loss, and the simple wonders of the world.

27. Elantris by Brandon Sanderson

Elantris was once the magnificent capital of Arelon, inhabited by radiant beings with magical powers. Ten years ago, the magic failed, and Elantris fell into ruin, its inhabitants turned into powerless, leper-like creatures. Princess Sarene arrives in Arelon for an arranged marriage with Crown Prince Raoden, only to find he has died and she is considered his widow. As she navigates political intrigue and the threat from Fjordell religious fanatics, Sarene discovers that Raoden, stricken by the same curse that ruined Elantris, is secretly exiled within the city. Raoden’s struggle to bring hope to Elantris sets off a chain of events that may reveal the city’s secrets and save Arelon.

28. American Gods by Neil Gaiman

Shadow, freshly released from prison, learns that his wife, Laura, has died in a car crash. On his journey home, he meets Mr. Wednesday, who claims to be a god and recruits Shadow for a strange mission. They embark on a bizarre road trip across America, encountering old gods who are fading away and new gods who thrive on modern obsessions. As a supernatural storm brews, Shadow discovers the hidden depths of America’s soul and the battle brewing between the gods.

29. Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

Sophie, the eldest of three sisters, is cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an old woman. Seeking to break the spell, she ventures to the moving castle of the wizard Howl. Inside, she meets Howl, a fire demon named Calcifer, and other intriguing characters. Sophie must navigate enchantments, strike bargains, and confront the Witch of the Waste. Along the way, she learns about Howl’s true nature and discovers her own hidden strengths.

30.The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

The world is ending again as three catastrophic events unfold. Essun returns home to find her husband has murdered their son and kidnapped their daughter. Simultaneously, the empire of Sanze collapses under mass murder, and a massive rift in the earth spews ash, darkening the sky. Essun must navigate a dying, resource-scarce land to find her daughter, facing danger and devastation at every turn. Her personal quest intertwines with the broader struggle for survival in a shattered world.

31.Outlander  by Diana Gabaldon

In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon in Scotland. She is mysteriously transported back to 1743, where she is caught up in the intrigues of the Scottish Highlands. Claire meets James Fraser, a dashing young warrior, and finds herself torn between two lives and two loves. Her modern knowledge and courage help her navigate the dangers of the past, but her heart is conflicted between her old life and her new one.

32.The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

Jason wakes up on a school bus with no memory of who he is. He learns he has a girlfriend, Piper, and a best friend, Leo. They are whisked away to Camp Half-Blood, where they discover they are demigods, children of gods. As they uncover their identities, they face strange creatures and uncover a prophecy. Jason’s quest to recover his memories and Piper’s search for her missing father intertwine with a larger battle against ancient forces threatening their world.

33. His Majesty’s Dragon by Naomi Novik

Captain Will Laurence’s life changes when his ship captures a French vessel carrying a dragon egg. When the egg hatches, Laurence bonds with the dragon, Temeraire, and joins the Aerial Corps. Together, they train in the art of airborne combat during the Napoleonic Wars. As France’s dragon forces prepare to invade Britain, Laurence and Temeraire must master new tactics and face fierce battles, forging a deep bond and proving their worth in the skies.

34.Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind

After his father’s brutal murder, Richard Cypher meets Kahlan Amnell, a mysterious woman seeking help. Richard’s beliefs are shattered as he discovers ancient debts and violent forces at play. As he and Kahlan face treachery and loss, they uncover their own strengths and hidden secrets. Richard must invoke a deeper power within himself, facing love and danger in equal measure.

35. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Clary Fray, a fifteen-year-old girl, witnesses a murder at a New York City club by teenagers with strange tattoos and weapons. The body disappears, and she learns about the Shadowhunters, warriors who hunt demons. When Clary’s mother disappears and she is attacked by a demon, Clary is drawn into the Shadowhunters’ world. She discovers her own mysterious abilities and unravels secrets about her family, joining the battle against dark forces.

36. Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Coraline Jones discovers a hidden door in her new home that leads to a parallel world resembling her own. Initially, this world seems better, but Coraline soon realizes it harbors sinister secrets, including another mother who wants to trap her. With other children’s souls at stake, Coraline must use her wits and bravery to escape and save her family. This eerie tale blends adventure and suspense, highlighting courage and the importance of home.

37. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

Laia is a slave under the brutal rule of the Martial Empire, where defiance leads to death. Her family lives in fear, avoiding rebellion after witnessing the harsh consequences. When Laia’s brother is arrested for treason, she seeks help from rebels. In exchange for their aid in rescuing her brother, Laia agrees to spy on the Empire’s military academy. There, she meets Elias, the academy’s best soldier who secretly despises the Empire’s tyranny. Both Laia and Elias long for freedom and realize their destinies are connected. Their choices could spark a revolution and alter the fate of the Empire itself.

38. Preludes & Nocturnes by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman’s Preludes & Nocturnes introduces Dream, also known as Morpheus, who is mistakenly captured by an occultist aiming to trap Death for immortality. After 70 years of imprisonment, Dream escapes and embarks on a quest to retrieve his lost symbols of power. His journey brings him face to face with figures like Lucifer and John Constantine, and tests his strength and resilience. The volume also includes The Sound of Her Wings, where Dream meets his sister Death, adding depth to Gaiman’s universe with its blend of mythology and modern narrative.

39.The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski

Geralt of Rivia, known as the Witcher, is a monster hunter with extraordinary abilities, gained through rigorous training and magical elixirs. He travels a world where the line between good and evil is blurred. Geralt’s encounters with various creatures reveal the complexities of morality, as not all monsters are purely evil, nor are all humans purely good. This collection of stories delves into Geralt’s adventures, highlighting the nuanced truths hidden within folklore and fairy tales.

40.The Neverending Story by Michael Ende

Bastian Balthazar Bux, a lonely boy, finds solace in a mysterious book that transports him to Fantastica, a magical world in crisis. The Childlike Empress, ruler of Fantastica, is dying, and only a human can save her by giving her a new name. Bastian’s journey through this enchanting realm, filled with dragons, giants, and other fantastical beings, challenges him to find his inner strength and courage. As he delves deeper into the adventure, he must confront his fears and the secrets of his heart, becoming an integral part of the story he is reading.

41. Fool’s Errand by Robin Hobb

Fifteen years after the Red Ship War, FitzChivalry Farseer lives in seclusion with his wolf companion, Nighteyes. However, Fitz is drawn back into the political intrigues of the Farseer court when young Prince Dutiful goes missing before an important diplomatic wedding. Tasked with retrieving the prince, Fitz embarks on a perilous journey that threatens not only his life but the stability of the kingdom. The quest reveals deeper threats and tests Fitz’s loyalty, courage, and the bonds he has formed over the years.

42. The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud

Nathaniel, a young magician-in-training, is sold to the government at the age of five and apprenticed to the unkind Arthur Underwood. When Nathaniel is publicly humiliated by the powerful magician Simon Lovelace and betrayed by his master, he vows revenge. He summons the ancient djinni Bartimaeus to steal the Amulet of Samarkand from Lovelace, plunging himself into a dangerous conflict. As Nathaniel navigates the treacherous world of magic and politics, he learns the high cost of vengeance and power.

43.Watership Down by Richard Adams

In the idyllic English countryside, a group of rabbits led by Hazel and his brother Fiver, flee their warren after Fiver foresees its destruction. Their journey to find a new home is fraught with danger from predators, hostile environments, and internal conflicts. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and allies, testing their resilience and unity.

44.The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden

In the remote Russian wilderness, Vasilisa grows up with tales of spirits and demons, especially the chilling story of Frost, the winter demon. After her mother dies and her father remarries, her devout stepmother forbids the family from honoring household spirits. As crops fail and evil forces encroach, Vasilisa must tap into her hidden powers to protect her loved ones. She defies tradition and her stepmother’s harsh demands, confronting ancient threats that have come to life from her nurse’s most frightening stories.

45.Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Lissa Dragomir, a Moroi princess, and her best friend, Rose Hathaway, a Dhampir, navigate the perils of their world at St. Vladimir’s Academy. Moroi are mortal vampires, and Dhampirs are their guardians, tasked with protecting them from the deadly Strigoi. Rose’s fierce dedication to Lissa is tested by dangerous enemies and forbidden romances. As they unravel dark secrets within the academy, they must balance their desires with their duties to keep Lissa safe from those who wish to turn her into one of the Strigoi.

46.Charlie and the Chocolate Factory  by Roald Dahl

Young Charlie Bucket’s life changes when he finds a Golden Ticket in a Wonka chocolate bar, granting him a tour of Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. Inside, he and four other children encounter a world of imaginative and fantastical creations. As the children face various trials that reveal their true natures, Charlie’s humility and kindness earn him an unexpected and life-altering reward from Mr. Wonka.

47. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Nobody Owens, called Bod, is raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family is murdered by the sinister man Jack. Bod grows up learning the ways of the dead, with guardians who protect him from the dangers of both the living and the supernatural. His adventures include facing ghouls, befriending a witch, and uncovering the secrets of his past. However, the greatest threat lies outside the graveyard, where the man Jack still seeks to finish what he started.

48. A Winter’s Promise by Christelle Dabos

Ophelia, who can read objects’ histories and travel through mirrors, lives on the Ark of Anima. Her peaceful life changes when she is betrothed to Thorn, from the Ark of the Pole, part of a powerful clan. Moving to her fiancé’s home, Ophelia finds herself entangled in political intrigue and dangerous plots. As she hides her true abilities and navigates her new environment, she uncovers deeper mysteries about her role and the fractured world she inhabits.

49. The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley

This novel tells the story of Corlath, the king of the Free Hillfolk, and Harry Crewe, an orphaned girl from Homeland who becomes Harimad-sol, the King’s Rider. Harry is chosen to wield the Blue Sword, Gonturan, a legendary weapon last carried by the Lady Aerin. Through the magic of the Hillfolk, known as kelar, Harry’s destiny is woven into the fate of her people as she rises to meet her calling.

50. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison

Rachel Morgan, a witch and bounty hunter for the supernatural police (IS), decides to quit her job and start her own business. This decision puts a bounty on her head, making her life complicated and dangerous. She teams up with Ivy, a vampire who avoids drinking blood, and Jenks, a pixy with a sharp tongue and many children. Despite her magical abilities and resourcefulness, Rachel’s impulsive decisions often lead to trouble.

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