The world of fantasy literature is filled with beloved classics and modern masterpieces. While many of us are familiar with the best-selling fantasy series like Twilight, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Little Prince, and The Hobbit, there’s more to explore beyond these iconic tales. In this list, we’ll delve into a selection of adult fantasy novels that have achieved immense popularity over time. Before we dive in, it’s essential to acknowledge the ongoing disparity within the publishing industry.
Despite efforts like #BlackoutBestsellerList and #PublishingPaidMe, which aimed to promote diversity in literature, the industry still lags behind in representation. The lack of diverse authors on bestseller lists is a reality that needs to be addressed. To provide a more inclusive perspective, this list will be divided into two sections.
The first half will focus on adult fantasy books that have achieved significant commercial success, grouping these titles by series rather than individual novels. The second half will highlight fantasy works written by authors of color who have made an impact on bestseller lists. These talented writers are not only deserving of recognition but also offer a glimpse into the potential for future bestselling fantasy novels.
Bestselling Fantasy Books of All Time
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings trilogy, penned by J. R. R. Tolkien, has secured its place as the most renowned fantasy series in history, boasting an astonishing 150 million copies sold. It’s hardly surprising that this iconic tale has captivated the hearts of millions, given its richly detailed world-building and thrilling narrative.
For those less familiar with the story, The Lord of the Rings follows the perilous quest of a hobbit named Frodo and his companions as they traverse Middle-earth in a desperate bid to destroy the One Ring before it falls into the clutches of the dark lord Sauron.
A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series has captured the hearts of millions with its intricate political machinations and dire consequences for the Stark family. The inaugural installment, a Game of Thrones, first published in 1996, sets the stage for a thrilling narrative that explores the treacherous world of King’s Landing.
Lord Eddard Stark’s arrival as Hand of the King sparks a chain reaction of power struggles, betrayals, and tragic events that threaten to destroy everything he holds dear.
The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
The Wheel of Time series is a behemoth in the fantasy world, boasting an impressive 90 million copies sold worldwide. Although the series was concluded posthumously by Brandon Sanderson, who expertly brought Jordan’s vision to life by completing books 12-14 based on his notes. The Eye of the World, published in 1990, marks the beginning of this beloved series.
This epic tale follows Moiraine Damodred as she embarks on a perilous quest to find the chosen one, leading her to Emond’s Field where she convinces Rand al’Thor and his companions to join forces against the ominous Dark One.
Discworld by Terry Pratchett
The Discworld series, a behemoth of fantasy literature, boasts 41 books that follow various characters and storylines. No surprise then that they’ve become some of the best-selling fantasy books of all time! The Colour of Magic, published in 1983, marks the beginning of wizard Rincewind’s escapades. In this inaugural tale, Rincewind is hired by Twoflower, a well-meaning but clueless tourist, to serve as his guide.
Unbeknownst to Rincewind, Twofloor is actually an insurance agent for the Agatean Empire, and it falls upon him to protect his client at all costs lest his demise spark an invasion.
The Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice
Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles has captivated readers with its timeless tale of eternal life and unyielding desire. The series began with the iconic ‘Interview with the Vampire’, published in 1976, which has sold over +80 million copies worldwide. This critically acclaimed novel introduces Louis, a reluctant vampire turned by the enigmatic Lestat. As Louis navigates his new existence, he forms an unlikely bond with Claudia, a child he transforms into a vampire.
Together, they embark on a perilous journey across the globe in search of acceptance and belonging, only to discover that their quest may be fraught with unforeseen dangers.
The Dark Tower by Stephen King
Stephen King’s reputation as a master of horror is well-deserved, but few readers know that his fantasy novels have also achieved immense popularity. The Dark Tower series, which began with The Gunslinger in 1982, is a case in point. This epic tale follows Roland of Gilead, aka The Gunslinger, on a quest to capture the elusive Man in Black.
Set against the backdrop of a dusty, western-inspired world, Roland’s relentless pursuit takes him across the desert and into the path of Jake, a young stranger from our own world who becomes his unlikely companion.
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Diana Gabaldon’s iconic historical romance series, Outlander, has captivated audiences since its publication in 1991. With an astonishing 26 million copies sold, this time-traveling tale has woven a spell of enchantment around readers worldwide. The narrative begins in post-war 1945, when Claire Randall embarks on a second honeymoon with her husband in the Scottish Highlands.
As she ventures through a standing stone, she finds herself catapulted back to 1743, and it’s only a matter of time before the charming Jamie Fraser wins over her heart with his gallantry.
Sword of Truth by Terry Goodkind
Terry Goodkind’s iconic fantasy series, ‘Wizard’s First Rule’, has been captivating readers since its publication in 1994. The first installment of a 15-book epic, it introduces protagonist Richard Cypher as he embarks on a quest to unravel the mystery surrounding his father’s murder.
Along the way, he crosses paths with enigmatic Kahlan, and together they embark on a perilous journey to uncover ancient magical artifacts that could potentially thwart the evil ambitions of Darken Rahl, a ruthless lord seeking omnipotence.
Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series, published in 2006, has become a modern fantasy bestseller with over 10 million copies sold worldwide. The series follows Kelsier, a cunning thief and Mistborn with the ability to tap into metals for magical powers. As he plans an seemingly impossible heist, he meets Vin, his new apprentice who shares his unique abilities as a Mistborn. Together, they embark on a thrilling adventure that showcases Sanderson’s creative storytelling and world-building skills.
The Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss
The Patrick Rothfuss trilogy, comprising The Name of the Wind, has captivated readers worldwide with its enigmatic conclusion, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the final installment. Despite the lack of a definitive ending, the series has sold over 10 million copies since its publication in 2007. The first book in this captivating series introduces us to an older Kvothe, who has retreated from his life as a renowned magician and musician to run a humble inn.
The mystery surrounding his transformation is only partially resolved by the time the story begins. However, when a traveling storyteller stumbles upon Kvothe’s true identity, he decides to share the tale of his remarkable life, replete with themes of love, music, magic, and betrayal.
10 More Bestselling Fantasy Books
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
The Fifth Season, a fantasy masterpiece by N. K. Jemisin, has captured my imagination. The story unfolds in a world on the brink of catastrophe, as a powerful orogene’s actions threaten to unleash the worst Fifth Season in history – effectively ending the Stillness. Against this apocalyptic backdrop, we’re introduced to three compelling female characters.
Essun, grappling with the trauma of her husband’s brutal murder of their son for exhibiting orogene abilities; Damaya, who discovers she too is an orogene and seeks training at the Fulcrum; and Syenite, a trainee struggling to find her place within this treacherous world.
Babel, Or the Necessity of Violence by R. F. Kuang
R. F. Kuang’s historical fantasy, a NYT bestseller, delves into the complexities of colonialism, language, and academia through an alternate 1800s lens. The story revolves around Robin, an orphan who was taken from his home in Canton to serve as a translator for the British Empire. Under Professor Lovell’s guidance, Robin was trained from a young age to join Oxford’s Institute of Translation, also known as Babel.
As he settles into this supposed utopia, Robin begins to uncover the harsh realities that lie beneath the surface, and learns that sometimes it takes courage and violence to bring about meaningful change.
Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel
In a stunning reimagining of a Ramayana classic, the oft-maligned Kaikeyi takes center stage in an unforgettable tale. The only daughter of Kekaya’s kingdom, Kaikeyi’s early life is marked by neglect, her parents’ distant relationship leaving her feeling overlooked and unloved. However, when her father suddenly banishes her mother, Kaikeyi finds solace in the ancient texts they once read together.
It’s within these pages that she discovers a hidden power – one that will transform her into a formidable warrior, diplomat, and queen, as she seeks to reclaim her rightful place in the kingdom.
The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina by Zoraida Córdova
The captivating novel, ‘The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina’, weaves a spellbinding family saga that is impossible to put down. This enchanting tale follows the Montoya clan, who have grown accustomed to their matriarch Orquídea’s peculiarities and the mystical aura surrounding her house. However, when Orquídea shocks everyone by hosting her own funeral, only to transform into a tree, the Montoyas are left with more questions than answers.
Seven years will pass before the truth begins to unravel, bringing danger ever closer.
Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan
The latest novel in the Celestial Kingdom series is a thrilling fantasy romance that draws inspiration from the legendary Chinese moon goddess. The story centers around Xingyin, who has spent her life hiding from the outside world with her mother Chang’e. However, when Xingyin’s magic begins to manifest, she’s forced to abandon her home and flee to the Celestial Kingdom itself.
There, she forms an unlikely bond with Prince Liwei, and together they embark on a journey of growth, learning, and training. But despite their newfound friendship, Xingyin remains fiercely dedicated to rescuing her mother from captivity, driven by a deep sense of loyalty and determination.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
The NYT bestseller series, The Dark Star, takes readers on a journey with Black Leopard, Red Wolf, a dark and deeply imaginative fantasy novel that delves into African history and mythology. At its core is the story of Tracker, a seasoned mercenary who finds himself breaking his own rule to join an unlikely team in search of a young boy missing for three years. Alongside him are a motley crew of characters, including Leopard, a shapeshifter with her own secrets and motivations.
As they embark on their perilous quest to find the missing child, the stakes prove higher than anticipated, and the line between reality and myth blurs.
The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro
The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
The latest sensation in the literary world is The Atlas Six, a dark academia fantasy novel that has taken TikTok by storm. This captivating story delves into the lives of this year’s candidates vying for a spot in the prestigious Alexandrian Society. As magicians and keepers of forgotten knowledge, the members of this exclusive club annually invite five new individuals to join their ranks. Among them are Libby Rhodes, Nicolás Ferrer, Reina Mori, Parisa Kamali, Tristan Caine, and Callum Nova.
To gain acceptance into the Society, these six candidates must prove themselves worthy – a challenge that may ultimately prove fatal.
She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan
In the midst of China’s Ming Dynasty, a captivating literary fantasy unfolds in She Who Became the Sun, a reimagining of the era’s rise. The narrative centers around a young girl who was once deemed insignificant, with her brother destined for greatness. However, their lives take a drastic turn when their father is brutally murdered and their brother succumbs to grief. With their family torn apart, the girl finds herself desperate to survive, driven by a newfound sense of determination.
As she assumes her brother’s name and his intended fate, Zhu Chongba emerges as a monk at a monastery, later joining a rebel group where she discovers an insatiable capacity for achieving her goals.
The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean
A thrilling conclusion to this list is ‘The Book Eaters’, an international bestseller that lives up to its reputation. The story follows Devon, a member of a clan known as The Family, where tales are devoured like a meal. Her upbringing is filled with traditional fairytales and cautionary stories, while her brothers indulge in adventure and courage narratives. However, when Devon’s son is born, everything changes – instead of feeding on words, he craves minds.
This game-changer disrupts Devon’s life and forces her to re-evaluate her place within The Family. If you’ve enjoyed this selection of fantasy books, be sure to check out our curated list of the best fantasy novels from the past decade, as well as explore our comprehensive Sci-Fi/Fantasy Archives for more in-depth content, quizzes, and essays.