Top Best Fantasy Novels for Adults
Young adult fantasy might be one of the most intense and exciting genres – magical universes, unforgettable characters, fighting evil, and the emotional struggle between leaving childhood and facing responsibility.
It does not matter whether you are a fan of court intrigues, magical heists, dragon-riding kneelers, or burning witches at the stake – there is a YA for everyone in this genre.
Top Adult Fantasy Novels
Here are ten top novels that will help your fantasy to spread its wings, taking you to some of the sector’s greatest.
1. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
If you like dark faerie worlds, political drama, and morally ambiguous characters, do not miss this book. Jude, a mortal girl brought up in the fae’s world, must battle to keep her spot in society where power is everything in this novel.
The novel is addictive due to its cutting betrayals, slow-burn tension, and delicious horror of the rules of the faerie royal courts. This one is perfect for those of you who like your fantasy sharp, sly, and twice as ambitious.
2. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
This book begins with a Beauty and the Beast twist: Feyre, a mortal huntress, is pulled into the faerie world of Prythian as punishment and ends up finding far more than she ever expected.
The series unfolds into an epic mix of high fantasy, love stories, magical kingdoms, and world-changing stakes. If you enjoy vast worlds full of passion, magic, and adventure, this one’s for you.
3. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
Set in a ruthless world inspired by the Roman Empire, this story follows Laia, a scholar desperate to save her brother, and Elias, a soldier questioning the tyranny he serves.
With rebellion, action, heartbreak, and strong world-building, this one grips you from the first chapter. If you like emotional, powerful, and dark stories — this is your pick.
4. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
If clever heists, found-family dynamics, and morally complex characters draw you in, Six of Crows is an absolute gem. Set in Bardugo’s Grishaverse, the story follows Kaz Brekker and his team as they attempt an impossible heist.
Every member has secrets, every plan is risky, and every page keeps you hooked. It’s clever, gritty, and beautifully written.
5. The Merciful Crow by Margaret Owen
This fantasy features a unique magic system and a protagonist worth cheering for: Fie, a member of the marginalized Crows caste, is tasked with protecting a runaway prince.
The book explores class, power, loyalty, and survival with bold storytelling and rich detail. If you like tales of the underdog and deep lore, this one’s for you.
6. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
This one has taken the YA world by storm! Think dragons, brutal training, dangerous trials, and a simmering romance that unfolds amid chaos.
Violet Sorrengail must survive the ruthless world of dragon-riders — and every moment is packed with adrenaline. For those who crave fast-paced fantasy and high emotion, Fourth Wing is an absolute thrill.
7. Fable by Adrienne Young
If you love pirate stories, sea adventures, and fierce heroines, Fable will sweep you away. It follows Fable, a girl abandoned on a deadly island, as she fights her way into a world of traders, storms, and treachery. The world-building is vivid, the writing lush, and the emotion real.
8. Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco
Dark, gothic, and romantic — this book is perfect for those who love witches, demons, and forbidden power.
When Emilia’s twin sister is murdered, she dives into the underworld of witchcraft and summons Wrath, one of the Seven Princes of Hell. What follows is a story filled with mystery, danger, and seduction.
9. Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
A witch forced to marry a witch-hunter — that’s the spellbinding setup of Serpent & Dove.
Lou and Reid’s unlikely union sparks humor, passion, and conflict as they navigate love and loyalty in a world at war. This one beautifully blends magic, romance, and adventure.
10. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Not your typical fantasy, but a thrilling fusion of mystery and magic. Avery Grambs unexpectedly inherits a billionaire’s fortune — but must solve a trail of riddles to claim it.
With puzzles, romance, and plenty of twists, this story keeps your mind spinning and your heart racing.