The 22 Best Adult Fantasy Books for Readers Who Crave Adventure

Fantasy isn’t just for kids. Adult fantasy books open the door to complex worlds, morally grey characters, and deeper themes. These fantasy books for adults span epic quests, political intrigue, urban settings, and bold experiments with the genre. Some are modern hits, others are classics that shaped everything that came after. All are worth your time.

Classic Epic Fantasy

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

This is the first part of The Lord of the Rings. It set the standard for epic worldbuilding.

Tolkien created languages, histories, and cultures.

The story follows hobbits, a wizard, a ranger, an elf, a dwarf, and a man of Gondor. They must destroy a powerful ring before it falls into the wrong hands.

A classic in the fantasy genre, ideal for seasoned fantasy readers.

The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien

This book is the history of Middle-earth. It tells myths, creation stories, and epic tragedies.

It gives context for all of The Lord of the Rings. The writing is dense but full of detail.

Fans of Tolkien’s world find it rewarding. It’s like the behind-the-scenes tour for the whole fantasy universe.

You’ll feel like you’re getting secret lore straight from Tolkien himself.

A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

This story has political drama, family rivalry, and many surprises.

It is the first book in A Song of Ice and Fire. The plotlines are complex and the characters are morally grey.

The story does not follow predictable patterns. It keeps readers guessing at every turn.

The world feels gritty and real, with danger lurking in every shadow. By the end, you’ll be hooked and ready for the next book.

The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

This book begins The Wheel of Time series. It introduces many characters and a detailed world.

The story starts in a small village. It grows into a tale of prophecy, danger, and destiny.

The worldbuilding feels fully alive and immersive.

There’s a mix of magic, mystery, and adventure on every page. By the end, you’ll be eager to see where the journey goes next.

Magician: Apprentice by Raymond E. Feist

The story follows Pug, an orphan who becomes an apprentice magician.

It expands into a conflict that spans worlds.

The book introduces Midkemia, a world full of magic and political tension.

The plot combines personal growth with large-scale adventure.

It is a strong start to a long fantasy series.

Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb

The story follows Fitz, the illegitimate son of a prince.

He grows up as an outcast but trains as a king’s assassin.

Fitz faces danger, betrayal, and political intrigue.

The book focuses on his emotions and growth.

It is a character-driven epic with depth and heart.

Modern Epic Fantasy

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

This book tells the story of Kvothe, a legendary figure.

It blends music, magic, and personal history. The writing is smooth and lyrical.

The magic system feels fresh and well thought out.

The story draws readers into Kvothe’s life from a close perspective. It leaves you eager to hear the rest of his tale.

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

This is the first book in The Stormlight Archive.

It introduces a huge world with many storylines. The book has unique magic systems and political drama.

Characters grow and change across the story.

It is a long but rewarding epic adventure. By the end, you’ll be completely drawn into its world.

Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

The story follows Vin, a young street thief with hidden powers.

She must fight a tyrant who has ruled for centuries.

The magic system uses metals in clever ways.

The plot mixes action, mystery, and rebellion. The book is fast-paced and exciting.

A classic fantasy book ideal for readers looking to get more into adult fantasy books.

Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson

This standalone book focuses on gods, magic, and politics.

Magic comes from “Breath,” which gives life and power.

The story includes humor and sharp dialogue.

Characters face unexpected challenges and moral choices.

It is a fun, engaging read. Ideal for fans of Sanderson’s other books.

Elantris by Brandon Sanderson

The city of Elantris was once magical but is now in ruin.

The story follows three people caught in political and magical conflicts. The plot is tightly structured and clear.

It explores themes like faith, power, and redemption.

The book gives a full, satisfying story in one volume.

Looking to read more adult fantasy books? Then this is a must-read!

The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

This begins The First Law Trilogy. The story is dark, gritty, and full of moral complexity. Characters are flawed and realistic.

The plot has violence, dark humor, and political intrigue. It challenges normal heroic tropes in fantasy.

The world feels dangerous and unpredictable. Once you start, it’s hard to look away from the chaos.

Looking to read more adult fantasy books? Then this is a must-read!

Urban, Contemporary, and Mythic Fantasy

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

The story follows Locke Lamora, a master thief in a city like Venice.

He leads a gang in clever heists full of danger and trickery.

The book mixes crime, humor, and fantasy.

Characters feel alive and the plot moves quickly. It is clever, fast-paced, and fun.

This is a popular pick among fantasy fans. If you haven’t read it, you need to add this to your tbr.

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

This story follows Rin, a war orphan with talent and ambition.

She rises through a military academy and faces brutal truths.

The book explores war, power, and sacrifice.

It is dark and emotional but gripping. The story combines historical inspiration with fantasy elements.

An immersive fantasy book you won’t be able to put down.

Jade City by Fonda Lee

Jade City is a hugely popular book among fantasy fans, and popular on fantasy booktok.

The story is set in a city ruled by rival clans. Family, loyalty, and power struggles drive the plot.

The story mixes martial arts, crime drama, and fantasy. Characters are clear and easy to follow.

The fights are tense and the stakes feel high. It is fast-paced and pulls you in right away. You may not want to put it down.

The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

This book begins The Broken Earth trilogy. A must-read if you’re after adult fantasy books!

The world faces constant geological disasters. Characters have powers tied to the earth itself.

The story explores survival, oppression, and complex relationships. It is inventive, emotional, and thought-provoking.

An immersive, fast-paced read you won’t be able to put down.

Circe by Madeline Miller

This book tells the story of Circe, a Greek witch. This is ideal for fans of Greek mythology retellings.

It follows her life, exile, and rise in power. The writing is smooth and easy to read. The story shows a new side to a famous myth.

It looks at change, choice, and inner strength. The world of gods and humans feels bright and real. Circe’s path is big in scale but close in feeling.

It mixes magic with real emotions. By the end, her story stays with you.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

This story is about a magical traveling circus. It moves from town to town.

It includes romance, mystery, and wonder. The circus itself feels alive. Each act is full of magic.

The writing is smooth and clear. The story is enchanting. It pulls you in from the start. You will not want to leave.

While this is slow-paced, the writing is so immersive and beautiful that you’ll want to keep reading.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

Addie LaRue makes a deal to live forever but is forgotten by everyone she meets.

The story spans centuries and explores her long life. It examines memory, identity, and freedom.

The writing is thoughtful and engaging. The story blends fantasy with deep emotion.

This book is quite polarizing. But fans of this historical fantasy rave about how touching this story is.

American Gods by Neil Gaiman

Old gods clash with new gods in modern America.

The story mixes mythology with today’s world. It is surreal, dark, and witty.

Characters are complex and symbolic. The plot is unpredictable and thought-provoking.

The book is quite long. The audiobook is incredible. I highly recommend listening to it over the physical book. It makes the story feel alive and even more magical.

Conclusion

Adult fantasy books open doors to new worlds and exciting stories. Some are long series with complex plots, while others are standalone tales you can enjoy in one sitting. These books explore real feelings, hard choices, and what it means to be human.

Start with a book that draws you in, whether it is a classic like The Fellowship of the Ring or a modern favorite like The Poppy War. Each one offers adventure, emotion, and a chance to step into another world.

Pick up a book and dive in. Your next great story is waiting.

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