Top Must-Read Fantasy Book Series for Adults

In the heart of the sprawling, decaying city of Ebora, once a beacon of glory now overshadowed by its past, Tormalin the Oathless wants to avoid death by boredom. When Lady Vincenza ‘Vintage’ de Grazon offers him a job, he quickly accepts. Together with Noon, a fugitive witch, they find themselves in a battle against an alien force threatening their world. However, their quest uncovers secrets that should have stayed buried.

As the danger intensifies, Tormalin, Vintage, and Noon must navigate a maze of magic, intrigue, and betrayal. They’re racing against time, with the enemy at every turn. Can they save Ebora and all they hold dear, or will the shadows of their secrets undo them first?

“The Broken Earth Trilogy” by N. K. Jemisin is a groundbreaking fantasy book series for adults that you won’t want to miss! The story follows Essun, a mother driven by the search for her missing daughter in a world where catastrophic earthquakes regularly reshape the landscape. As Essun navigates this dangerous and unpredictable world, she uncovers startling truths about herself and the very nature of the planet.
Jemisin’s masterful storytelling, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes make “The Broken Earth Trilogy” a standout series in adult fantasy. Trust me, once you start reading, you’ll be hooked!

Have you heard about “The Drowning Empire” by Andrea Stewart?

In this series, the empire of islands is bound by magic and politics, where the ambitions of a bone-shard daughter could change everything. Lin is the emperor’s daughter, but her father refuses to recognize her as heir. However, her discovery of forbidden magic might grant her the power to claim her birthright.

As Lin navigates the treacherous waters of court intrigue, she uncovers dark secrets about her family and the magic that sustains their empire. Meanwhile, a revolution stirs among the common folk, and Lin must decide if her loyalty lies with her father or with a greater cause. Will Lin’s newfound abilities lead to salvation or ruin for the empire?

The story follows Touraine, a soldier kidnapped as a child, now caught between the empire she serves and her homeland’s rebels. Her conflicted loyalties deepen when she meets Luca, a mage princess aiming to reform her kingdom.

Luca sees Touraine as a key ally in her quest to end the war, but their plans push ethical boundaries. As their bond grows, so does the risk of greater conflict. This series weaves a tale of intrigue and rebellion, making it a must-read for fans of adult fantasy series.

The Burning Kingdoms series by Tasha Suri is a gripping fantasy series perfect for adult readers, especially those who appreciate Indian-inspired settings.

Princess Malini, exiled by her tyrannical brother, plots revenge from her prison within the ancient, crumbling Hirana temple. Here, she meets Priya, a servant with profound secrets and a mysterious connection to the temple’s magical past.

However, when their destinies intertwine, Malini and Priya embark on a quest not just for personal redemption but to ignite a revolution. With its lush, Indian-inspired world-building and complex female protagonists, this series challenges the empire’s dark legacies. A must-read for fans of adult fantasy series, blending magic, intrigue, and feminist themes.

In this sprawling series, starting with The Way of Kings, we dive into a world of high storms and deeper secrets. Roshar, the land of storms, is where enormous, mystical armors known as Shardplates and powerful swords called Shardblades make knights nearly invincible. However, the true battle is not just with weapons but with the broken souls who wield them—like Kaladin, who struggles from slave to hero; Shallan, who seeks knowledge to save her family; and Dalinar, whose past could ruin his future.

Navigating through the Cosmere reading order enriches the experience, as The Stormlight Archive ties subtly to other Sanderson works. Yet, each book stands strong on its own, offering complex characters and a vast, vivid world that challenges and changes them. Essential reading for any adult fantasy series enthusiast, especially if you’re venturing through the Cosmere!

In the world of Renthia, spirits of nature—air, earth, fire, ice, wood, and water—aren’t just whimsical; they’re deadly. However, these spirits are controlled by powerful women known as Queens. The series starts with The Queen of Blood, where Daleina, a determined student with an affinity to command spirits, aspires to become the next Queen. Her journey isn’t just about gaining power but surviving it, as she discovers not all spirits are willing to bend to human will.

Throughout the series, each book unveils new threats and powerful female characters grappling with duty, power, and moral dilemmas. This series offers an enchanting twist where nature’s beauty collides with humankind’s ambition, making it an engaging read for anyone seeking a fresh take on magic and monarchy.

In this silkpunk saga, we follow two unlikely friends, Kuni Garu and Mata Zyndu, who first unite to overthrow a tyrant emperor. However, once the empire is freed, their paths diverge drastically. Kuni is charismatic and adaptable, while Mata is a formidable giant bound by honor. As they rise to power, their conflicting visions for running the empire set them against each other.

Throughout the series, the scope expands with airships, shapeshifting gods, and battles that test the limits of loyalty and strategy. This series is a must-read if you’re into sprawling narratives and rich, Asian-inspired settings. It offers a fresh lens on power, innovation, and revolution in adult fantasy.

The story starts with Rin, an orphan from the Rooster Province who aces the national exam and earns a place at the prestigious military academy, Sinegard. However, she quickly learns that her presence is resented by her peers, who are from far wealthier backgrounds. When war breaks out, Rin discovers she possesses a deadly, mythical power that could save her people—but at a great cost.

Throughout the series, Rin’s journey is filled with brutal choices and blurs the line between heroism and villainy. If you’re into dark, thought-provoking narratives that challenge moral boundaries, this series should be on your radar. It’s a must-read for fans of richly detailed, intense fantasy tales.

This series starts with “Gideon the Ninth,” where we meet Gideon, armed with her sword and infamous snark, plotting to escape a life of servitude. She’s tangled in the necromantic schemes of her childhood nemesis, Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House. However, their fates intertwine even deeper when summoned to a decaying space palace to solve a mystery that could grant them unimaginable power.

Yet, this challenge is anything but straightforward. The duo faces puzzles, deadly trials, and the other houses’ necromancers and cavaliers, who are equally desperate to win. Harrow’s skills in necromancy may be the key to their survival, but Gideon’s courage and wit could keep them alive. As secrets unravel, their story becomes a thrilling blend of fantasy and science fiction—a must-read for any adult fantasy series enthusiast looking for something spectacularly unique.

S. A. Chakraborty’s The Daevabad Trilogy starts with a con artist in Cairo who doesn’t just steal treasures but also summons djinn. Nahri accidentally calls upon Dara, a mysterious and sullen djinn warrior, whisking her away into the magical city of Daevabad. There, old tensions simmer between magical tribes, and Nahri learns of her mystical heritage.

However, Daevabad is no fairy tale city. The palace intrigues and deadly political games threaten at every corner. Prince Alizayd, the king’s younger son, navigates these treacherous waters, struggling with his principles and the heavy expectations of his lineage. As Nahri and Ali cross, they must decide where their loyalties lie and how much they will sacrifice for power and duty. A perfect blend of magic and intrigue makes this series a must-read for rich, historical fantasy fans.

This series starts with “The Shadow of What Was Lost,” introducing us to a world where magic is restricted and history haunts the present. Friends Asavron, Caeden, and Wirr are swept up in an ancient prophecy, threatened by dark forces aiming to manipulate it for their own gains.

The trio faces epic battles and deep moral dilemmas, uncovering truths that could either free or further entangle them. Perfect for adults seeking a rich fantasy series filled with intrigue and mysticism.

Dive into The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden, a blend of Russian folklore and historical fantasy. Vasilisa grew up in the northern woods of Russia and was connected to protective spirits. The village falls under threat when a new priest arrives, condemning these spirits as demons.

Facing a harsh winter, Vasya chooses between her family’s safety and freedom. With the help of Morozko, the Frost Demon, she confronts a deadly threat from legendary dark creatures. This series is compelling for adults who enjoy tales of magic and ancient conflicts.

Step into the expansive world of The Chorus of Dragons Series by Jenn Lyons, a thrilling fantasy saga for adults. The story unfolds with Kihrin, a young thief who discovers his lineage ties back to a long line of kings. However, his inheritance is far from a blessing, as it plunges him into the center of a prophetic struggle.

As Kihrin navigates a world filled with magic, dragons, and ancient pacts, he finds allies and enemies in unexpected places. With each book, the stakes grow higher as secrets unravel. This series masterfully blends intrigue, betrayal, and complex magic—making it a must-read for fans of rich, detailed fantasy epics.

Step into the gritty streets of Janloon with The Green Bone Saga by Fonda Lee, a compelling fantasy series for adults. In this vivid world, jade grants extraordinary powers to those trained to wield it, setting off fierce family and gang rivalries.

The Kaul family struggles to control their jade empire, grappling with external threats and internal betrayals. As alliances shift and tensions mount, survival hinges on managing magical and mortal dangers. This saga masterfully blends action with deep emotional stakes, making it a must-read for fans of intricate fantasy worlds.

In Robin Hobb’s The Farseer Trilogy, we meet FitzChivalry, a royal bastard with a perilous gift of ancient magic known as the Skill, and a taboo animal magic called the Wit. Trained as an assassin, Fitz navigates the deadly intrigues of the royal court.

Facing a path riddled with treachery and loyalty, Fitz’s life intertwines with complex duties and emotional entanglements. His journey through love, betrayal, and sacrifice defines this gripping fantasy series, making it a compelling read for adult fans of intricate, character-driven narratives.

In The Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan, gunpowder fuels an epic conflict. The series begins with a bold coup, overthrowing a corrupt monarchy. Yet, this act sparks a far greater struggle, as new factions vie for control, blending traditional sorcery with explosive firepower.

Field Marshal Tamas, a renowned powder mage with the ability to manipulate gunpowder to devastating effect, emerges as a key leader. However, his enemies are numerous, from hostile nations to internal betrayers. As Tamas battles to build a new order, the stakes rise with the introduction of mythical gods and otherworldly forces. This series, perfect for adults, melds political intrigue with thrilling magic in a vivid, action-packed narrative.

In The Books of Babel series by Josiah Bancroft, the Tower of Babel is not merely a myth but a vast world. Thomas Senlin, a schoolteacher, arrives for a honeymoon but quickly loses his wife in the tower’s chaos. Desperate to find her, he must ascend through the tower’s unique levels, each a distinct kingdom.

Navigating dangers and forming alliances, Senlin transforms from a naive tourist to a seasoned survivor. However, the deeper he goes, the darker the tower’s truths become. This series combines whimsical fantasy and adventure, ideal for adults seeking richly crafted worlds and complex characters.

In “The Faithful and the Fallen” by John Gwynne, young Corban dreams of a peaceful life, but war looms in the Banished Lands. Ancient prophecies hint at his critical role in the looming battle between good and evil.

As Corban grows from a blacksmith’s son to a warrior, alliances and betrayals shape his journey. However, distinguishing friends from foes is perilous in a land filled with concealed dangers. This series is a thrilling exploration of heroism and betrayal, perfect for any adult fantasy enthusiast.