Few literary pleasures beata good fantasy book; there’s nothing like getting lost in an immersive magical world.

Far better to start with something lighter, with fast-moving plots and clear prose.

After farm boy Eragon discovers a dragon egg, he becomes swept up in this epic struggle.

Blended image showing book covers for Eragon, Harry Potter, and The Edge Chronicles

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The highlight of the series is the bond between the protagonist and his dragon, Saphira.

The plot soon encompasses royal treachery, ancient secrets, and powerful sorcery.

While not necessarily groundbreaking,they are a ton of fun, jam-packed with roguish intrigue.

Eragon Book Cover

Image via Alfred A. Knopf

A lot rides on the protagonists, who are layered and intriguing.

These are rich and intelligent books, boasting three-dimensional characters and plots that repeatedly subvert expectations.

The prose is gorgeous, too.

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Overall,Robin Hobb’s storytelling is intricate and meticulous, resulting ina world that feels expansiveand lived-in.

Each installment follows different characters across generations, exploring diverse corners of the universe.

Finally, Riddell’s beautiful imagery enhances the narrative, elevatingThe Edge Chroniclesto classic status.

Theft of Swords book Cover

Image via Orbit Books

Whereas a lot of fantasy series focus on shallow action,Earthseais about believable characters and thoughtful ideas.

For all these reasons,Earthsearemains a cornerstone of the genre.

He also portrays them far more realistically than most fantasy authors do.

Farseer Trilogy Book Cover0

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Everyone knowsHarry Potter(the series has sold more copies than many religious texts, after all).

These books sold approximately a gazillion copies for a reason.

Im a greedy bastard."

Beyond the Deepwoods Cover

Image via Doubleday

Yet another unmissable fantasy series isThe Gentleman BastardsbyScott Lynch, beginning with 2006’sThe Lies of Locke Lamora.

The dialogue is vibrant, and many of the characters practically leap off the page.

NEXT:10 Great Novels To Read if You Love ‘Interstellar’

A Wizard of Earthsea Book Cover0

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Mistborn: The Hero of Ages Book Cover

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The Name of the Wind Book Cover

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Book Cover

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Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Movie Poster

The Color of Magic Book Cover

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The Lies of Locke Lamora Book Cover

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