Whether you’re a classic fantasy fan or prefer something more modern, you’ll find a friendship that will capture your heart. So come along and explore the magic of friendships in fantasy books!
Friendship is Magic in These Fantasy Books
Step into a world where friendships are forged in the fires of adventure, bonds are unbreakable, and anything is possible. Welcome to the world of fantasy, where the power of friendship is truly magical.
From unlikely alliances to loyal companions, friendships in fantasy books illuminate the strength, loyalty, and unwavering support that can be found in even the most fantastical of worlds. On these pages, you’ll meet characters who will challenge, inspire, and make you laugh. You’ll also discover the power of friendship to help you overcome any obstacle.
Adult Fantasy Books with Epic Friendships
Friendships are an important part of many adult fantasy books. These books often feature characters who are thrown together by fate or circumstance and who must learn to trust and rely on each other to survive. The friendships in these books are often complex and nuanced, and they can be a source of strength, support, and even love.
The friendships in adult fantasy books are often not perfect. The characters may have different backgrounds, personalities, and goals, and they may not always agree with each other. However, these friendships are ultimately what allow the characters to grow and change, and to achieve their goals.
Adult fantasy books often explore the darker side of friendship. These books may show how friendships can be tested by betrayal, loss, or even death. However, these books also show how friendships can be a source of strength and resilience in adversity.
The Lord of the Rings
When it comes to friendships in fantasy books, it’s impossible to overlook The Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic trilogy features some of the most iconic friendships in fantasy literature, from the fellowship of Frodo Baggins and his companions to the unlikely friendship between Gimli and Legolas. These friendships make The Lord of the Rings so enduring, and they inspire readers of all ages.
The Lies of Locke Lamora
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch is a fantasy novel that tells the story of Locke Lamora, a young thief who is part of a group of con artists known as the Gentlemen Bastards. The novel is set in Camorr, a city of thieves and liars. The friendships between the members of the Gentlemen Bastards are complex and often fraught with conflict. However, these friendships also allow the Gentlemen Bastards to succeed in their schemes.
Kings of the Wyld
Kings of the Wyld by Nicholas Eames is a fantasy novel about Clay Cooper, a retired mercenary who is called back into action to save his daughter. The novel is set in a world of high fantasy, and the friendships between the members of Clay’s old mercenary band are the heart of the story.
Queen of Blood
Queen of Blood by Sarah Beth Durst is a fantasy novel that tells the story of Daleina, a young woman who has the power to control the spirits. The novel is set in a world where humans and spirits must coexist, though it isn’t always easy. The friendships between Daleina and the other girls who she trains really give the story heart and depth.
The Poppy War
The Poppy War by RF Kuang is a fantasy book that tells the story of Rin. She is a war orphan who decides to attend the most difficult school in the land to improve her status and live life on her terms. The novel is set in a world inspired by ancient China. It is a dark world torn by war and influenced by vengeful gods.
The friendship between Rin and Kitay, two of the students at the academy, is one of the most important relationships in the story.
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven is a fantasy novel set in an alternate England where witches are real and have been working for the government for centuries. The story follows four childhood friends: Helena, Niamh, Leonie, and Elle. The four women are all powerful witches with different strengths and abilities and must work together to solve a series of supernatural crimes.
The friendships between the women are one of the book’s strongest aspects. The women are all very different from each other, but they are united by their shared love of magic and their commitment to protecting the innocent. Their friendships are tested throughout the book, but they always come out stronger on the other side.
Mistborn the Final Empire
Mistborn: The Final Empire is a fantasy novel set in a world where metal powers magic. The story follows Vin, a young thief recruited by a group of rebels to overthrow the Lord Ruler, a tyrannical immortal who has ruled the world for a thousand years.
Vin is a strong and independent woman, but she also forms close friendships with the other members of the crew, including Kelsier, Sazed, and Spook. The crew are all very different from each other, but they are united by their shared goal of freedom and their belief in each other.
Babel
Babel is a fantasy novel set in an alternate-reality 1830s England in which Britain’s global economic and colonial supremacy is fueled by magical silver bars. Silver has magical properties tied to language in this world: it can capture what is “lost in translation” between words in different languages with similar, but not identical, meanings. Silver bars inscribed with such ‘match-pairs’ can thus manifest magical effects, which may increase agricultural production, improve the accuracy of bullets, heal injuries, and more.
The Bone Maker
Twenty-five years ago, five heroes defeated a corrupt magician who created an inhuman army using animal bones. Only four of the heroes survived.
The group leader, Kreya, has exiled herself to a remote tower to resurrect her dead husband. However, such a task requires human bones and sacrifice. Kreya is willing to sacrifice, but using human bones for magic is illegal in Vos.
Kreya knows where she can find the bones she needs: the battlefield where her husband and countless others lost their lives. But defying the laws of the land exposes a terrible possibility: maybe the dead don’t rest in peace after all.
The story follows Kreya as she tries to resurrect her husband and the other four heroes as they deal with the aftermath of their victory. The five heroes are all broken differently but must come together to face a new threat.
Dragon Mage
Aram Raythe, a seemingly ordinary misfit from a small fishing village, discovers that he possesses a rare and ancient gift that could challenge the gods themselves. Unbeknownst to him, his magical abilities attract both allies and enemies who seek to control his powers for their sinister purposes. As he embarks on a journey to become a dragon rider and a Champion, Aram finds himself at the center of a battle against a dark god threatening the world of magic. In this action-packed tale of power, destiny, and ancient myths, Aram must rise to become the hero the land desperately needs.
Tress of the Emerald Sea
Tress’s idyllic life on her island home takes a thrilling turn when disaster strikes her friend Charlie’s voyage to find a bride. Stowing away on a pirate ship, Tress sets out on a daring adventure to seek the Sorceress of the deadly Midnight Sea. Amidst the dangerous spore oceans and a world of pirates, Tress forms an unexpected and heartwarming friendship with the ship’s crew. As she navigates a sea where danger lurks at every turn, Tress must find her place in this new world and face the challenges of sailing the treacherous Emerald Sea. In this standalone novel, Sanderson weaves a tale of friendship, courage, and self-discovery that will captivate readers who loved “The Princess Bride.
YA Fantasy Books with Unbreakable Friendships
Friendships are an important part of many YA fantasy books. These books often feature characters coming of age and learning to navigate the world, and their friendships can be a source of support, guidance, and even love. The friendships in these books are often complex and nuanced, and they can help the characters to grow and change as they learn to trust and rely on each other.
YA fantasy books often explore the power of friendship. These books may show how friendships can help characters overcome challenges, find their true selves, and improve the world.
Harry Potter
In the enchanting world of Harry Potter, the main trio of Harry, Hermione, and Ron forge an unbreakable friendship as they navigate the challenges of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Together, they confront dark wizards, unravel mysteries, and face the growing threat of Lord Voldemort. Their unwavering loyalty and courage bind them through perilous adventures, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for readers. The Harry Potter series showcases the timeless power of friendship, love, and camaraderie in the face of adversity, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of readers worldwide.
Infernal Devices
In Cassandra Clare’s captivating Infernal Devices series, the deep bond of friendship between Will Herondale and Jem Carstairs takes center stage. Set in the enchanting world of Victorian London, the two parabatai share an unbreakable connection and a profound understanding of each other. Despite their contrasting personalities, Will’s wit and Jem’s gentle nature complement each other perfectly. Their loyalty is unwavering. Together, they face the challenges of battling dark forces, protecting their loved ones, and navigating the complexities of their hearts. The heartwarming friendship between Will and Jem adds a powerful emotion and depth to the series. Making it an unforgettable journey for readers.
The Rave
Alina K’vich embarks on a thrilling journey in the futuristic world of El. After losing her parents, she becomes an Aelfraver—a hunter of arcane beasts and demons—with her grandfather Dimas as her mentor. But when Dimas vanishes, Alina has debts and a desperate need for money. In a daring move, she takes on a high-stakes Rave that could change her destiny. Along the way, she forms an unexpected friendship with a young girl, facing dangerous challenges and unnameable horrors in her quest to save New El and herself.
The Prison Healer
Kiva Meridan, a seventeen-year-old, has spent a decade as the prison healer in the deadly Zalindov prison, fighting for survival. When the Rebel Queen is captured and faces the Trial by Ordeal, Kiva receives a cryptic message from her family. It is urging her to keep the queen alive. Risking her own life, Kiva volunteers to undergo the elemental challenges in the queen’s place. She is hoping to win both their freedom. Amidst a plague outbreak, a brewing prison rebellion, and the emergence of a mysterious boy capturing her heart, Kiva’s journey is fraught with peril.
This Savage Song
August Flynn is a monster who wants to be human. Kate Harker is a human girl who wants to be as ruthless as her father. They are also the heirs of the city’s warring factions. They must decide whether to embrace their monstrous or human nature when their paths cross. As they navigate the dangerous streets of Verity and face deadly enemies, they discover a forbidden friendship that may hold the key to saving their city from destruction.
Skyward
Skyward is a science fiction novel by Brandon Sanderson that follows Spensa, a teenage girl who dreams of becoming a pilot in the Defiant Defense Force, the only group of humans fighting against the Krell, an alien race that destroyed Earth. Spensa is initially rejected from the DDF because she is the daughter of a coward who ran from the Krell. However, she is eventually given a chance to prove herself when she is assigned to a cadet training class to become a pilot.
Spensa eventually befriends the other cadets in her class. They train together, fight together, and learn to trust each other. As they grow closer, they also learn to rely on each other and become a tight-knit group of friends.
The friendship between Spensa and her classmates is one of the most important aspects of Skyward. It is what gives them the strength to overcome the challenges they face and allows them to achieve their goals.
Air Awakens
Air Awakens is a fantasy novel about Vhalla Yarl, a library apprentice who discovers she has the rare elemental magic of air. Vhalla is torn between her fear of the Tower of Sorcerers, a mysterious magic society, and her desire to learn more about her powers.
When she unknowingly saves the life of Crown Prince Aldrik, Vhalla is drawn into his world of magic and politics. She must decide whether to embrace her sorcery and leave the life she’s known, eradicate her magic, and remain as she’s always been.
With powerful forces lurking in the shadows, Vhalla’s indecision could cost her more than she ever imagined.
Air Awakens is the first book in a completed five-book series. It is a fast-paced and exciting novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you’re a fan of fantasy novels with romance and adventure, then you’ll love Air Awakens.
Six of Crows
Six of Crows is a fantasy novel about a group of criminals hired to pull off a dangerous heist. The team is led by Kaz Brekker, a brilliant but ruthless thief, and includes Jesper Fahey, a sharpshooter with a gambling problem; Inej Ghafa, a teenage assassin; Nina Zenik, a Heartrender with a dark past; Matthias Helvar, a tracker with a mysterious past; Wylan Van Eck, a wealthy boy with a secret; and Jordie Kaz Brekker’s younger brother.
Six of Crows is a fast-paced and exciting novel with action and adventure. It is also a character-driven novel, and the reader gets to know the six criminals very well. The novel explores the themes of loyalty, friendship, and redemption.
If you’re a fan of fantasy novels with a heist element, then you’ll love Six of Crows. It is a must-read for fans of Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse, and it is a great introduction to the series if you haven’t read any of the other books.
Manga Friendships in Fantasy
Friendships in manga are often characterized by loyalty, trust, and support. Manga characters often form bonds with each other through shared experiences, such as fighting alongside each other in battle or training together to achieve a common goal. These friendships can be a source of strength and comfort for the characters, and they can help them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is a manga series written and illustrated by Kohei Horikoshi. It follows the story of Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a world where they are the norm. Despite this, Midoriya dreams of becoming a superhero and is inspired by his idol, All Might, the greatest hero of all time.
My Hero Academia is a story about friendship, courage, and the power of dreams. It is a must-read for fans of superhero comics, shonen manga, and coming-of-age stories.
Black Clover
Black Clover is a manga series written and illustrated by Yuki Tabata. It follows the story of Asta, a young boy born without any magical powers in a world where magic is everything. Despite this, Asta dreams of becoming the Wizard King, the strongest mage in the Clover Kingdom.
Asta’s journey is not easy. He is constantly ridiculed and underestimated because of his lack of magic. However, he never gives up on his dream and is always willing to help others. Along the way, he meets and befriends a group of other mages, including Yuno, Noelle Silva, and Klaus Lunettes.
Together, Asta and his friends train to become the best mages they can be. Along the way, they learn the importance of friendship, teamwork, and sacrifice. They also face many challenges, including the Eye of the Midnight Sun, a group of mages who are trying to overthrow the Clover Kingdom.
Black Clover is a story about friendship, courage, and the power of dreams. It is a must-read for fans of shonen manga, fantasy, and coming-of-age stories.
Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter is a manga series written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi. It follows the story of Gon Freecss, a young boy who dreams of becoming a Hunter, a licensed professional specializing in finding rare treasures, exploring uncharted lands, and hunting down dangerous criminals.
Gon’s father, Ging Freecss, is a legendary Hunter who abandoned Gon when he was just a baby. Gon begins a journey to find his father and become a Hunter himself. Along the way, he meets and befriends a group of other Hunters, including Killua Zoldyck, Kurapika, and Leorio Paradinight.
Together, Gon and his friends face many challenges, including the Phantom Troupe, a group of thieves trying to steal other Hunters’ Nen abilities. They also learn the importance of friendship, teamwork, and sacrifice.
Hunter x Hunter is a story about friendship, courage, and the power of dreams. It is a must-read for Shonen manga, adventure, and fantasy fans.
Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a manga series written and illustrated by Koyoharu Gotōge. It follows the story of Tanjirō Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after demons slaughter his family and his younger sister Nezuko is turned into a demon herself.
Tanjirō and Nezuko set out on a journey to find a cure for Nezuko and avenge his family’s deaths. Along the way, they meet and befriend a group of other demon slayers, including Zenitsu Agatsuma, Inosuke Hashibira, and Kanao Tsuyuri.
Together, Tanjirō and his friends face many challenges, including the Twelve Kizuki, a group of powerful demons who serve Muzan Kibutsuji, the king of demons. They also learn the importance of friendship, teamwork, and sacrifice.
Demon Slayer is a story about friendship, courage, and the power of love. It is a must-read for shonen manga, action, and fantasy fans.
Friendships in Fantasy: Read These Books Now
In conclusion, friendship is a powerful force in fantasy stories. It can give characters strength, courage, and support in their quests. It can also teach them important lessons about themselves and their world.
The friendships in fantasy stories often reflect the real-world importance of friendship. They show us how friends can help us through difficult times, challenge us to be better people, and make our lives richer and more fulfilling.
If you’re looking for a good fantasy story to read, pay attention to the friendships between the characters. You might find that they have something important to teach you about friendship.
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Book lover, coffee addict, mom of dragons (aka rambunctious kids). I share book recs, mom life survival tips, and the occasional existential crisis.
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