My Top Fantasy Reads

Looking for books that completely transport you out of reality and into another world? These are the fantasy reads that ruined my sleep schedule and made me fall in love with the fantasy genre. From scheming against courts to deadly trials to epic found families, these are my absolute fantasy favorites.

The Atlas Six – Olivie Blake

Six of the most powerful magicians are invited to compete for a place in an elite secret society, but only five will make it.

Why it’s great: Dark academia at its finest. Intellectually messy, morally complicated, and full of characters who are way too smart for their own good. The vibes are immaculate.

Caraval – Stephanie Garber

Scarlett and her sister are swept into a magical game where nothing is quite what it seems... and the stakes are dangerously real.

Why it’s great: Whimsical, romantic, and completely disorienting in the best way. It feels like stepping into a dream you’re not sure you’ll survive.

The Cruel Prince – Holly Black

A mortal girl navigates the cutthroat world of the Faerie Court, where cruelty is currency and power is everything.

Why it’s great: Jude is that girl. Sharp, ruthless, and unapologetically ambitious. The political intrigue mixed with the enemies-to-lovers tension are perfection.

Fourth Wing – Rebecca Yarros

Violet enters a brutal military academy where dragon riders are trained, and survival is never guaranteed.

Why it’s great: Dragons. Enemies to lovers. High stakes. Emotional damage. I couldn’t put it down and immediately needed the sequel.

Keeper of the Lost Cities – Shannon Messenger

A girl discovers she’s part of a hidden magical world and her entire life changes overnight.

Why it’s great: Pure comfort fantasy. It was my favorite throughout middle school and it grows up with you, gets deeper as the series goes on, and is impossible not to binge.

Once Upon a Broken Heart (series) – Stephanie Garber

A girl makes a deal with the Prince of Hearts, and everything spirals into magic, curses, and heartbreak.

Why it’s great: Fairytales but darker. Jacks is unhinged, romantic, and devastating. This series hurts in the most beautiful way.

The Selection – Kiera Cass

Thirty-five girls compete for the heart of a prince and a crown.

Why it’s great: Royal drama, love triangles, and pure escapism. It’s addictive, nostalgic, and still one of my favorite comfort reads.

Six of Crows – Leigh Bardugo

A crew of criminals attempts an impossible heist in a dangerous city full of secrets.

Why it’s great: Found family, incredible banter, and characters who feel painfully real. Kaz Brekker alone deserves a spot on this list.

Three Dark Crowns – Kendare Blake

Three sisters are born to rule, but only one can survive.

Why it’s great: Dark, eerie, and ruthless. The concept is chilling, and watching the queens grow into their power is addicting.

Throne of Glass – Sarah J. Maas

An assassin is brought to a glass castle to compete for her freedom and ends up uncovering something much bigger.

Why it’s great: The slowest burn with the biggest payoff. This series starts strong and ends epic. A fantasy rite of passage.