Top Fantasy Series of the Decade
The past decade has seen a remarkable surge in the popularity of fantasy series, captivating audiences with rich world-building, complex characters, and intricate plots. These series have not only dominated bestseller lists but have also inspired adaptations across various media, from television to film, transforming the landscape of modern storytelling.
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Among the standout titles, "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas has enthralled readers with its mix of romance, adventure, and faerie lore, while "The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon has garnered acclaim for its epic scope and feminist themes. Brandon Sanderson's "The Stormlight Archive" series has pushed the boundaries of high fantasy with its unique magic systems and deep philosophical questions. Additionally, "The Witcher" series by Andrzej Sapkowski, which gained renewed popularity through its Netflix adaptation, showcases a gritty, morally complex world filled with monsters and moral dilemmas. These series, along with others like "The Broken Earth" trilogy by N.K. Jemisin, have not only entertained but also sparked important conversations about identity, power, and humanity, cementing their place as pivotal works in contemporary fantasy literature.
A Court of Thorns and RosesView AllA Court of Thorns and Roses - Fantasy romance, fae, adventure, magic, and intricate relationships.
The Stormlight ArchiveView AllThe Stormlight Archive - Epic fantasy series featuring magic, knights, and complex characters.
The Broken Earth TrilogyView AllThe Broken Earth Trilogy - Epic fantasy exploring oppression, survival, and earth manipulation.
The Poppy War TrilogyView AllThe Poppy War Trilogy - Epic fantasy exploring war, power, and personal sacrifice.
The Witcher SeriesView AllThe Witcher Series - Fantasy saga featuring Geralt, monster hunting, and moral dilemmas.
The First Law TrilogyView AllThe First Law Trilogy - Grim fantasy exploring morality, power, and human nature.
The Realm of the ElderlingsView AllThe Realm of the Elderlings - Epic fantasy series exploring complex characters and rich world-building.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRueView AllThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - A girl makes a Faustian bargain for eternal life.
Children of Blood and BoneView AllChildren of Blood and Bone - Fantasy tale of magic, struggle, and ancestral legacy in Nigeria.
The Priory of the Orange TreeView AllThe Priory of the Orange Tree - Epic fantasy of dragons, queens, and ancient magic.
Top Fantasy Series of the Decade
1.
A Court of Thorns and Roses
"A Court of Thorns and Roses" is a captivating fantasy novel by Sarah J. Maas that follows the story of Feyre Archeron, a mortal huntress who kills a wolf in the woods, only to discover it was a faerie in disguise. As punishment, she is taken to the magical land of Prythian, where she encounters Tamlin, a High Lord of the Fae, and becomes embroiled in a deadly curse threatening his realm. Blending romance, danger, and adventure, Feyre's journey explores themes of sacrifice, love, and the complexities of both human and faerie worlds.
Pros
Engaging characters- rich world-building
- romance.
Cons
Slow pacing- predictable plot
- some clichés.
2.
The Stormlight Archive
"The Stormlight Archive" is an epic fantasy series by Brandon Sanderson, set in the richly detailed world of Roshar, where storms shape the land and its inhabitants. The story follows multiple protagonists, including the conflicted nobleman Kaladin Stormblessed, the determined scholar Shallan Davar, and the enigmatic leader Dalinar Kholin, as they navigate a complex web of politics, warfare, and ancient prophecies. The series explores themes of honor, leadership, and the struggle against darkness, blending intricate world-building with deep character development and a unique magic system.
Pros
- Rich world-building
- deep characters
- intricate plot
Cons
- complex magic system may overwhelm some readers
3.
The Broken Earth Trilogy
The Broken Earth Trilogy, authored by N.K. Jemisin, is a groundbreaking fantasy series set in a world plagued by catastrophic geological upheavals. It follows the lives of orogenes, individuals with the ability to manipulate the earth's energies, who are both feared and oppressed. The trilogy comprises three novels: "The Fifth Season," "The Obelisk Gate," and "The Stone Sky." Through its intricate world-building and rich character development, the series explores themes of systemic oppression, identity, and survival, ultimately challenging societal norms while offering a poignant commentary on power and resilience.
Pros
- Unique world-building
- complex characters
- themes of oppression.
Cons
- Dense prose
- slow pacing
- emotional heaviness may deter some readers.
4.
The Poppy War Trilogy
The Poppy War Trilogy, written by R.F. Kuang, is a gripping fantasy series inspired by Chinese history, particularly the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Opium Wars. It follows Rin, a war orphan from the poor, rural south, who gains admission to a prestigious military academy. As she uncovers her shamanic powers, Rin grapples with the devastating consequences of war, nationalism, and her own identity. The series explores themes of trauma, power, and the moral complexities of conflict, culminating in an epic narrative that challenges traditional notions of heroism and sacrifice.
Pros
- Rich world-building
- complex characters
- themes of war and identity
Cons
- pacing issues
- some find it emotionally heavy
5.
The Witcher Series
The Witcher Series is a popular fantasy franchise created by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, centered on Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher. Set in a richly detailed world filled with magic, political intrigue, and moral ambiguity, the series explores themes of destiny, love, and the nature of humanity. It encompasses a collection of short stories and novels, which inspired a successful video game series and a critically acclaimed Netflix adaptation. The blend of Slavic mythology and complex characters has garnered a dedicated fanbase worldwide.
Pros
- Rich storytelling
- deep characters
- immersive world.
Cons
- Pacing issues
- complex lore
- inconsistent adaptation quality.
6.
The First Law Trilogy
The First Law Trilogy, authored by Joe Abercrombie, is a gritty fantasy series set in a morally complex world where traditional heroism is subverted. It follows a diverse cast of characters, including the tortured swordsman Logen Ninefingers, the cunning and ambitious Inquisitor Glokta, and the determined noblewoman, Ferro Maljinn. The trilogy consists of "The Blade Itself," "Before They Are Hanged," and "Last Argument of Kings," exploring themes of power, betrayal, and the gray areas of morality. Abercrombie’s blend of dark humor, vivid characterizations, and brutal realism has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Pros
- Complex characters
- gritty realism
- moral ambiguity
Cons
- bleak tone
- violence may deter some readers
7.
The Realm of the Elderlings
"The Realm of the Elderlings" is a captivating fantasy series by Robin Hobb, set in a richly woven world filled with intricate politics, magic, and diverse cultures. The narrative primarily follows the lives of the Farseer, Tawny Man, and Liveship Traders trilogies, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the bonds between humans and dragons. Hobb’s character-driven storytelling brings to life a vivid tapestry of characters, from the troubled royal FitzChivalry Farseer to the wise dragon Tintaglia, all navigating the complexities of their world. This series is revered for its emotional depth and masterful world-building.
Pros
- Rich world-building
- complex characters
- intricate plots.
Cons
- Slow pacing
- lengthy series
- some may find it overwhelming.
8.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
"The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" is a captivating novel by V.E. Schwab that follows the life of a young woman, Addie LaRue, who makes a Faustian bargain in 1714 to escape a constrained life in rural France. She gains immortality but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. As she navigates centuries of loneliness and fleeting encounters, Addie's life changes when she meets a man who remembers her. The story explores themes of identity, memory, and the impact of art and love in an ephemeral existence.
Pros
- Unique storytelling
- rich character development
- explores themes of identity.
Cons
- Pacing issues
- some may find the concept repetitive.
9.
Children of Blood and Bone
"Children of Blood and Bone" is a captivating fantasy novel by Tomi Adeyemi set in the vibrant world of Orïsha, where magic once flourished but has been extinguished by a ruthless monarchy. The story follows Zélie Adebola, a young girl determined to restore magic and avenge her mother’s death. Alongside her brother Tzain and a rebellious princess, Zélie embarks on a dangerous journey filled with powerful foes, ancient spirits, and self-discovery. The book explores themes of oppression, identity, and resilience, weaving a rich tapestry of African-inspired mythology and culture.
Pros
- Rich world-building
- strong characters
- cultural depth.
Cons
- Pacing issues
- some clichés
- predictable plot elements.
10.
The Priory of the Orange Tree
"The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon is a sweeping epic fantasy that centers on the clash between dragons and humans. The story unfolds in a richly crafted world divided by politics and ancient beliefs, following multiple protagonists, including a dragon rider, a queen, and a scholar. As an age-old evil resurfaces, these characters must confront their loyalties and the expectations placed upon them. Themes of feminism, identity, and the power of love intertwine, creating a captivating narrative that challenges traditional tropes in fantasy literature.
Pros
- Diverse characters
- rich world-building
- feminist themes.
Cons
- Lengthy pacing
- complex plot
- some find it overwhelming.
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