Best Epic Fantasy Books January 2025

The Kane Chronicles

Dive into the thrilling world of Egyptian mythology with Rick Riordan’s “The Kane Chronicles.” Follow siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they discover their hidden magical heritage and embark on a perilous journey to save the world. Riordan’s signature wit and humor shine through as the Kanes face ancient gods, wield powerful magic, and unravel family secrets. With heart-pounding action and clever twists, this series will captivate readers of all ages, leaving them spellbound until the very last page.

Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard

Magnus Chase thought he was just another homeless kid on Boston’s streets. But when he dies a heroic death, he discovers he’s the son of a Norse god. Suddenly thrust into a world of mythology, Magnus must navigate Valhalla, befriend valkyries, and embark on a quest to prevent Ragnarok. With his wit, sarcasm, and newfound powers, Magnus faces mythical monsters and godly challenges, all while trying to figure out his place in this bizarre new reality.

Six of Crows

Ketterdam: a bustling hub of international trade where anything can be had for the right price—and no one knows that better than criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker. Kaz is offered a chance at a deadly heist that could make him rich beyond his wildest dreams. But he can’t pull it off alone. A convict with a thirst for revenge. A sharpshooter who can’t walk away from a wager. A runaway with a privileged past. A spy known as the Wraith. A Heartrender using her magic to survive the slums. A thief with a gift for unlikely escapes. Six dangerous outcasts. One impossible heist. Kaz’s crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destruction—if they don’t kill each other first.

The Grisha Trilogy

Immerse yourself in a world of dark magic and dangerous intrigue. Alina Starkov, an orphan mapmaker, discovers she possesses an extraordinary power that could save her war-torn country. Thrust into the lavish world of the Grisha, magical elite led by the enigmatic Darkling, Alina must navigate treacherous politics and her own growing abilities. As she uncovers shocking secrets, she questions everything she thought she knew. A spellbinding tale of loyalty, love, and the price of power that will leave you breathless.

The Inheritance Trilogy

Jemisin’s captivating debut weaves a tale of gods, mortals, and power that will leave you breathless. Set in a richly imagined world where deities walk among us, this epic fantasy follows Yeine Darr as she’s thrust into a deadly game of succession. With lyrical prose and complex characters, Jemisin explores themes of oppression, identity, and the nature of divinity. I found myself completely immersed, unable to put it down as the intricate plot unfolded. A stunning start to a trilogy that redefines the genre.

The Witcher Series

Immerse yourself in a dark fantasy world where monsters roam and morality blurs. Sapkowski’s Witcher series follows Geralt of Rivia, a mutant monster hunter with supernatural abilities. As he navigates political intrigue and battles fearsome creatures, Geralt grapples with his own humanity. Rich in Slavic folklore and moral ambiguity, these books offer a gritty, complex tale that will keep you spellbound. Prepare for a journey where destiny and choice collide in unexpected ways.

The Broken Earth Trilogy

I found myself utterly captivated by N.K. Jemisin’s “The Broken Earth Trilogy.” Set in a world wracked by apocalyptic climate shifts, it follows Essun, a woman with the power to control earth’s energy. Jemisin’s prose is lyrical yet raw, painting a vivid picture of a dying planet and the complex characters fighting to survive. I was particularly struck by the innovative narrative structure and the exploration of themes like oppression and motherhood. This series left me pondering long after I turned the final page.

The Stormlight Archive Series

Immerse yourself in the epic world of Roshar, where storms shape the land and ancient magic awakens. Sanderson’s masterful storytelling weaves together complex characters, intricate politics, and breathtaking action. As dark forces threaten to consume all, unlikely heroes must uncover long-lost truths and wield mystical powers. With each page, you’ll find yourself captivated by the rich lore, unexpected twists, and heart-wrenching moments that make this series truly unforgettable. A must-read for fantasy lovers seeking an extraordinary adventure.

Mistborn Trilogy

In a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night, an evil force reigns. A young street urchin discovers she possesses extraordinary magical powers, thrusting her into a dangerous quest to overthrow the Dark Lord. Sanderson’s masterful worldbuilding and intricate magic system captivate, while his flawed, relatable characters grapple with loyalty, sacrifice, and the weight of destiny. I couldn’t put it down, staying up far too late to unravel the mysteries. A thrilling epic that will leave you craving more.

The Kingkiller Chronicle

In this mesmerizing tale, we follow Kvothe, a legendary figure whose past is shrouded in mystery. Rothfuss weaves a spellbinding narrative, rich with magic, music, and adventure. As Kvothe recounts his journey from a traveling performer to a powerful wizard, we’re drawn into a world of intrigue and danger. The prose is lyrical, the characters unforgettable. I found myself lost in the pages, unable to put it down. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished, leaving you yearning for more.