Our Favorite Epic Fantasy Series

#5

The Broken Earth Trilogy

N. K. Jemisin

The Broken Earth Trilogy was the first time I had been blown away by a fantasy story in years. It challenged me to move beyond my previous knowledge of fantasy rules and landscapes and into the world that N.K. Jemisin had created. While I wouldn't give this series to my friend who is exploring the fantasy genre for the first time, it would be the first thing I recommend to anyone looking to read beyond the standard "farmer boy with a destiny" trope. Jemisin's intricate world-building and complex characters offer a refreshing and thought-provoking take on the genre, making it a must-read for seasoned fantasy enthusiasts. - STS

Broken Earth Series Order

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#4

A Song of Ice and Fire

George R. R. Martin

Few series have captured my imagination like A Song of Ice and Fire. For three years after finishing A Dance With Dragons, I visited forums and the subreddit ASOIAF daily, reading chapter discussions and theories, utterly consumed by Martin's perfectly-crafted intrigue and machinations. To this day, A Storm of Swords remains the only book I’ve ever thrown in frustration—and one of only two I’ve had to put down to grieve a character’s death. While the intensity of my interest naturally waned, I can't ignore the impact this series had on myself and the fantasy landscape. - TS

A Song of Ice and Fire Series Order

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#3

The Chronicles of Prydain

Lloyd Alexander

The Chronicles of Prydain holds a special place in my heart as my introduction to fantasy. As a first grader, I spent countless hours drawing the map of Prydain over and over in my notebook instead of paying attention. I'm happy to report that the series holds up for an adult audience. Not only do all five books have fun moments but the fourth book, Taran Wanderer, is a profound exploration of finding your purpose and place in the world. - TS

The Chronicles of Prydain Series Order

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#2

Liveship Traders

Robin Hobb

I almost skipped the Liveship Traders trilogy, eager to jump ahead to Fitzchivalry’s next chapter, but I’m so glad I didn’t. This series turned out to be such a delight, packed with gripping adventure and layered mysteries that were thrilling to unravel. I couldn’t stop raving about it, constantly sharing my theories with my wife—until she finally had enough of hearing me gush about it. It’s a testament to Robin Hobb’s storytelling that she made me care so deeply about a whole new cast of characters and a world that felt alive and full of wonder. - TS

Liveship Traders Series Order

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#1

Memory, Sorrow, & Thorn

Tad Williams

Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn is my favorite series of all time. Years ago, I had to commute five hours one way once a week all summer to finish my degree. This series kept me company the whole summer. The audiobook of To Green Angel Tower is incredibly long, but Andrew Wincott's masterful narration made the journey enthralling rather than a bore.

The series has everything I desire: beautiful prose, giant books that give plenty of room to explore Osten Ard and get to know the characters, ancient mysteries, epic battles, and fights for the soul of the land. One of my favorite things about Tad Williams is that his characters showcase strong, positive attachments to their friends and family, which in epic fantasy is often left behind by authors wanting to write gritty portrayals. Indeed, the second book ends with friends having a sweet, tearful reunion, which is a testament to Williams' ability to create deep emotional connections.

With any luck, the follow-up series, The Last King of Osten Ard, will have just as powerful a resolution. I'm halfway through the final volume, The Navigator's Children, and it's barreling toward a fantastic ending, and I can't wait to see how it concludes. - TS

Memory, Sorrow, & Thorn Series Order