4 Fantasy Books Better Than The Lord of the Rings

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Okay, let’s talk about The Lord of the Rings. It’s a massive bestseller, no question, but I’ve found plenty of other fantasy novels that hold their own – and sometimes even surpass it. Everyone knows the basic story: Frodo, the evil Sauron, and that incredibly powerful One Ring. Even if you haven’t read the book, you’ve probably heard of it. Originally released in three parts, it really exploded into the mainstream when Peter Jackson turned it into a fantastic film trilogy back in the early 2000s.

The Lord of the Rings perfectly captures the magic of fantasy with its detailed world, compelling characters, intricate plot, and extensive history. However, Tolkien’s writing can be challenging for some readers. Luckily, there are many other fantastic fantasy stories that some people actually prefer to his classic trilogy.

A Song of Ice & Fire is a Never-Ending Political Drama

George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice & Fire is a captivating series centered around the fight for the Iron Throne and control of the Seven Kingdoms. The first book, A Game of Thrones, inspired the popular HBO television series that aired for eight seasons from 2011 to 2019. While the series currently includes five published novels, Martin has been working on the sixth book, The Winds of Winter, since at least 2012.

Martin is a truly gifted writer, expertly crafting compelling stories, memorable characters, and richly detailed worlds. His A Song of Ice & Fire series remains incredibly popular, even though its completion date is uncertain. The series deeply explores the complexities of power, politics, and society, and Westeros feels remarkably realistic despite being a fictional place, thanks to its vast cast of characters and intricate details.

Harry Potter Exemplifies the Importance of World Building

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter is known worldwide, having become a huge part of popular culture. The seven books tell the story of Harry Potter’s years at Hogwarts, following him from an ordinary eleven-year-old to a remarkably skilled wizard. The books were made into eight movies between 2001 and 2011, and a new TV series is currently being made for HBO, expected to debut in 2027.

It’s hard to say anything new about the Harry Potter series, but many readers actually prefer it to Tolkien’s work. Rowling created a wonderfully detailed world – both magical and ordinary – that feels incredibly real. The characters are easy to connect with, the backstory is extensive, and the age-old battle between good and evil is portrayed brilliantly.

The Wheel of Time is Highly Unique in Every Way

If you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings and looking for another epic fantasy series, Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time is a great choice. The fourteen-book series centers around Moiraine Damodred, a powerful woman searching for the Dragon Reborn, who turns out to be Rand al’Thor. The story follows Rand as he learns to control his incredible powers while trying to save the world. A TV adaptation of the books aired on Prime Video for three seasons, from 2021 to 2025.

Similar to The Lord of the Rings, The Wheel of Time is incredibly detailed, with richly developed cultures and a large cast of complex characters. This series stands out because it feels truly original – unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Though it shares the common theme of a “chosen one” discovering their power, its unique and expansive worldbuilding is what truly sets it apart.

Dune is a Masterful Blend of Fantasy and Sci-Fi

While some might debate whether it truly qualifies, many consider Frank Herbert’s Dune series to be a cornerstone of science fantasy, filled with imaginative and otherworldly elements. The story, beginning with the 1965 novel, centers on Paul Atreides and his growing power as he navigates the fate of the desert planet Arakis. Dune has seen numerous adaptations, and a new trilogy directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring Timothée Chalamet is currently in production.

Similar to The Wheel of Time, Frank Herbert’s Dune is a sprawling series with a deeply involved central narrative. Everything about this science fiction/fantasy saga – from its complex ideas to its intricate details – is crafted with great care, rich background lore, and insightful character development. While Paul Atreides is the primary character, the story features a wide array of memorable people, organizations, and groups, all of which remain relevant and thought-provoking even today.

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2026-01-26 02:37