Ever since I could read fantasy novels, they have always captured my attention. I remember how it felt to read my first fantasy novel and how intrigued and captivated I was by the words and stories in them. While I can say that there are often some problems with character writing and motivation, I will always love fantasy. This list was hard to make, but as of now, here are my top five fantasy novels.

5. “Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien

Topping off this list is the iconic, genre-defining fantasy great, “Lord Of The Rings.” The impact of this book cannot be underestimated, whether it be on the genre of fantasy or fiction as a whole. While most know of it through its film adaptation, the book offers so much more in terms of immersive prose writing. If you haven’t read it, definitely go check it out.

4. “Mistborn” by Brandon Sanderson  

Brandon Sanderson is a newcomer to the fantasy genre and is quickly making his mark in the fantasy scene. “Mistborn” follows a young teenager named Vin who must defeat an evil empire that has existed for centuries. The characters are very believable, and the amount of detail put in the worldbuilding and magic system is well thought out. If you’re looking for an expansive world and characters, this is a good place to start.

3. “Assassin’s Apprentice” by Robin Hobb

Books following royals and their illegitimate children are a huge staple of the high fantasy genre. “Assassin’s Apprentice” sets up what seems like a generic plot but still manages to be a thrilling adventure with charming characters. The book is very detailed in the way it approaches its subject matter.

2. “The Wheel of Time” by Robert Jordan

Taking inspiration from classical fantasy, “Wheel Of Time” centers around the attempts to get different kingdoms to stop fighting and unite against a common evil. The “Wheel Of Time” is unique in that it switches between the present and the past. The novel is a very involved read and encompasses 20 books, but if you can look past that, “Wheel Of Time” offers lots of complexity in its worldbuilding and themes that still resonate today.

1. “Game of Thrones” by George R.R. Martin

“Game Of Thrones” is a household name, and while the show disappointed, thankfully, the book deserves all the praise it gets. Grounded and brutal, the world comes alive in the book in a way the show can’t express. From the bloody detail of the fights to the truly heart-wrenching character arcs, “Game Of Thrones” is definitely worth a read.