Best High Fantasy Books April 2025

Before They Are Hanged

Gritty and unrelenting, Abercrombie’s second installment in The First Law trilogy plunges readers deeper into a world of betrayal and brutal warfare. As armies clash and alliances crumble, unlikely heroes emerge from the chaos. The author’s razor-sharp wit and unflinching portrayal of flawed characters kept me riveted. I found myself both horrified and oddly charmed by the morally ambiguous cast, their raw humanity shining through even in the darkest moments. A masterclass in subverting fantasy tropes.

The Blade Itself

Logen Ninefingers, a notorious barbarian, finds himself on a collision course with destiny. Fleeing his blood-soaked past, he’s drawn into a web of intrigue and violence in the crumbling Union. Meanwhile, a vain nobleman grapples with his own demons, and a young apprentice discovers her magical potential. Abercrombie weaves a gritty, darkly humorous tale that subverts fantasy tropes, leaving readers questioning who the real heroes are. With its morally ambiguous characters and brutal world, “The Blade Itself” cuts deep, leaving you hungry for more.

The Lord of the Rings

A Dream of Spring

In this long-awaited finale to the epic “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, Martin weaves together the myriad storylines of Westeros and beyond. As winter’s grip loosens, alliances shift and enemies unite against an ancient evil. Daenerys and her dragons face their ultimate test, while in the North, the true heir to the Iron Throne grapples with destiny. With Martin’s signature blend of political intrigue, complex characters, and heart-wrenching twists, “A Dream of Spring” promises a bittersweet conclusion that will leave readers spellbound.

The Winds of Winter

In this long-awaited sixth installment of A Song of Ice and Fire, George R.R. Martin weaves a tapestry of intrigue, betrayal, and magic. Winter has finally arrived in Westeros, bringing with it ancient terrors and new alliances. As dragons soar and White Walkers march, beloved characters face their greatest challenges yet. Martin’s masterful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats, reminding us why we fell in love with this world in the first place. A feast for fans, both old and new.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Rule of Wolves

Leigh Bardugo’s “Rule of Wolves” plunges readers back into the Grishaverse, where danger lurks in every shadow. As war looms, Nikolai Lantsov fights to save his country and his soul, while Nina Zenik seeks vengeance for her fallen love. The stakes have never been higher, and alliances shift like sand. I couldn’t put it down, staying up way too late, completely enthralled by Bardugo’s masterful storytelling and complex characters. A thrilling, emotional rollercoaster that left me craving more.

King of Scars

I found myself utterly captivated by Leigh Bardugo’s “King of Scars.” This gripping tale follows Nikolai Lantsov, the young king of Ravka, as he grapples with dark magic threatening to consume him. Bardugo’s masterful world-building and complex characters drew me in from the first page. The way she weaves political intrigue with supernatural elements is simply mesmerizing. I couldn’t put it down, staying up far too late just to see what would happen next. A must-read for fantasy lovers!