J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings is the undisputed father of modern fantasy. But since that epic journey to Mordor, the genre has exploded into a universe of new worlds, complex magic systems, and morally grey characters. For a new reader, knowing where to start can be intimidating.
Consider this your roadmap. We’ve chosen five foundational series that represent the best of modern epic fantasy. Each offers a unique doorway into a world you’ll never want to leave.
Your Next Epic Journey Awaits
Choosing a massive fantasy series is a real commitment, but it’s one of the most rewarding reading experiences you can have. And getting started is simple. We can deliver the first book of any of these series right to your door in Vietnam.
1. The Bridge Between Classic and Modern: The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
The series that defined the genre for a generation.
The Wheel of Time is the perfect starting point for those who love Tolkien’s classic “farm boy saves the world” trope but want a more complex world and a truly epic scope. Following a group of young friends who are swept up in a battle against an ancient evil, this 14-book series is a monumental achievement in world-building.
- Author: Robert Jordan
- Genre: Epic High Fantasy
- Perfect for: Readers looking for a classic, sprawling tale of good vs. evil.
2. The Gritty Political Epic: A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
The series that proved fantasy could be for serious adults.
Forget clear-cut heroes and villains. A Song of Ice and Fire is a brutal and brilliant story of political intrigue, family betrayal, and the ruthless pursuit of power in the land of Westeros. Famous for its shocking twists and morally grey characters, this series changed the face of modern fantasy forever.
- Author: George R.R. Martin
- Genre: Low Fantasy / Political Fantasy
- Perfect for: Readers who love complex political drama, gritty realism, and don’t get too attached to characters.
3. The Lyrical Masterpiece: The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
A beautifully told story about a legend telling his own tale.
This book is famous for its stunning prose. It follows the life of Kvothe, an infamous magician, adventurer, and musician, as he recounts his life story to a scribe. It’s a more personal, character-driven story with an intricate magic system and a deep sense of mystery and melancholy.
- Author: Patrick Rothfuss
- Genre: Lyrical Fantasy
- Perfect for: Readers who appreciate beautiful writing and a deep, character-focused mystery.
4. The World-Building Epic: The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
An impossibly grand story from the master of modern world-building.
Brandon Sanderson is a living legend in the fantasy community, known for his incredible magic systems and sprawling, interconnected universe (the “Cosmere”). The Way of Kings is the first book in his magnum opus, a truly epic tale set on a storm-ravaged world where wars are fought for magical swords.
- Author: Brandon Sanderson
- Genre: Epic High Fantasy
- Perfect for: Readers who love detailed magic systems, unique worlds, and massive-scale stories.
5. The Groundbreaking Modern Classic: The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
The only series ever to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row.
This is where modern fantasy is heading. Set in a world wracked by catastrophic climate change, The Fifth Season is a powerful and challenging story of survival, oppression, and geological magic. It’s brilliantly written with a unique narrative style, and it cemented N.K. Jemisin as one of the most important writers of our time.
- Author: N.K. Jemisin
- Genre: Science Fantasy / Dying Earth
- Perfect for: Readers looking for something new, challenging, and unlike any fantasy they’ve read before.
How to Tackle a 1000-Page Book
The thought of starting a 10-book series can be daunting, but don’t worry. It’s all about consistency. Check out our 5 simple tricks to build a reading habit to help you on your journey.