Let’s be honest—we all crave an escape from the everyday grind. Whether it’s to flee a dreary routine or to spark your imagination, few things beat curling up with a book that transports you to another universe. If you’re looking for the best fantasy books or the best sci fi books to add to your reading list, you’re in for a treat. This is not just another generic list—this is your portal to stories that have moved millions, changed lives, and created entire fandoms.
So grab a cup of tea (or conjure a goblet of mead if you’re already feeling fantasy vibes), and let’s dive into a handpicked guide to the best fantasy novels, the best science fiction novels, and those fun books to escape reality—crafted with love, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for fantasticfiction. Welcome to your next bookish adventure, right here on Riya’s Blogs.
🌌 Why We Crave Fantasy and Sci-Fi Escapes
Before we plunge into the list of the best fantasy fiction books and the best sci fi books of all time, let’s talk about why these genres are so powerful.
Fantasy and science fiction let us explore not just imaginary worlds—but very real emotions. In the fight between elves and orcs, or the rebellion against an AI-controlled galaxy, we see courage, love, sacrifice, and hope. These books offer more than escapism—they provide reflection, transformation, and a spark for our imaginations.
🧝♀️ Best Fantasy Books That Will Steal Your Breath Away
Let’s start with the best fantasy novels of all time—those that transport you to magical realms and mythical landscapes.
1. “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss
If you’ve ever wanted to feel magic—like actually feel it—The Name of the Wind is the perfect start. The book follows Kvothe, a gifted magician, musician, and hero… or maybe villain? You’re never quite sure. But what you do get is lyrical storytelling, an emotionally gripping narrative, and world-building that’s so immersive, you’ll forget Earth exists.
💡 Why it’s one of the best fantasy books: It’s poetic, powerful, and emotionally intimate—a rare combo in epic fantasy fiction books.
2. “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon
A standalone feminist fantasy packed with dragons, ancient myths, and powerful queens. The book is lush with detail and makes for one of the most fantasticfiction reads if you want your dragons with a side of political intrigue.
🧡 Bonus: It has one of the most compelling fantasy romance stories in recent years.
3. “Mistborn” by Brandon Sanderson
What happens when the Dark Lord wins? Mistborn explores this idea in a way that is explosive and brilliant. Sanderson’s magic system—based on metals—is unlike anything you’ve read, and the twists will leave you gasping.
💡 Why it’s a must: Unique world, unputdownable pacing, and some of the best plot twists in fantasy fiction books.
4. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
It would be a crime to not mention this classic in any list of the best fantasy novels of all time. With its whimsical tone and sense of adventure, it remains a fun book to escape reality—perfect for both seasoned fans and fantasy newbies.
5. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
This series exploded onto the scene with its sexy blend of fae politics, enemies-to-lovers romance, and high-stakes battles. It’s one of the most beloved fantasy romance books and has sparked an entire wave of romantasy (romantic fantasy) readers.
🔥 Why it’s iconic: It straddles the line between the best fantasy fiction books and swoon-worthy romance. Perfect for fans who want the magic and the feels.
🚀 Best Sci Fi Books to Blow Your Mind
Whether you’re into time travel, artificial intelligence, or post-apocalyptic thrills, these best sci fi books are a one-way ticket to worlds beyond comprehension.
1. “Dune” by Frank Herbert
This is not just one of the best sci fi books of all time—it’s a literary empire. Desert planets, spice wars, prophecy, and a reluctant messiah—Dune is everything sci fi should be: political, philosophical, and prophetic.
👑 Riya’s Pick: If you want to experience what shaped generations of sci-fi, start here.
2. “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
From the author of The Martian, this book follows a man who wakes up alone in space with no memory—and a mission to save humanity. It’s funny, smart, and unexpectedly emotional.
🪐 Why readers love it: It balances hard science with hilarious banter and heartwarming moments. Easily one of the best science fiction novels in recent years.
3. “Neuromancer” by William Gibson
You wouldn’t have The Matrix without this book. Cyberpunk aesthetics, AI plots, and gritty noir vibes—it’s a trailblazer and one of the best sci fi books if you love tech with grit.
4. “The Left Hand of Darkness” by Ursula K. Le Guin
Le Guin’s masterpiece doesn’t just challenge science—it challenges gender, identity, and diplomacy. It’s cerebral, deep, and written with poetic mastery. A perfect read for those who love the philosophical side of science fiction novels.
5. “The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey
Looking for fun books to escape reality that also keep your heart pounding? This YA sci-fi thriller about alien invasions hits that sweet spot between dystopia and high-octane action. One of the best books to binge-read on a weekend.
💫 Fantasy Romance Books You’ll Get Obsessed With
Sometimes we want magic and butterflies in our stomachs. These fantasy romance books blend adventure and love into one unforgettable journey.
- “From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout – A sizzling fantasy with forbidden love and deadly secrets.
- “Serpent & Dove” by Shelby Mahurin – A witch and witch-hunter are forced into marriage. Need we say more?
- “These Hollow Vows” by Lexi Ryan – Fae courts, romantic drama, and choices that hurt. Addictive from page one.
If you’re on the hunt for the best fantasy fiction books that mix romance with action, this sub-genre is where you should start.
🔮 Hidden Gems: Best Fantasy and Sci Fi Books You Might’ve Missed
Not every great story is a bestseller—some of the best sci fi books of all time are waiting quietly on dusty shelves.
- “The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet” by Becky Chambers – For those who love character-driven sci-fi.
- “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E. Harrow – A magical realist’s dream. Think Narnia meets literary fiction.
- “Uprooted” by Naomi Novik – Dark magic, a grumpy wizard, and a girl who changes everything.
Each of these books offers unique escapes into richly imagined worlds—perfect for anyone seeking fantasy fiction books that are fresh and exciting.
🧭 How to Pick the Right Escape Book for You
Still not sure what to read next? Here’s a quick guide:
- For epic world-building: Go with Mistborn or Dune
- For heartfelt character journeys: Try The Name of the Wind or Project Hail Mary
- For romance lovers: Start with A Court of Thorns and Roses or From Blood and Ash
- For fast-paced fun books to escape reality: Try The 5th Wave or Serpent & Dove
📚 Series That Redefine the Genre: Must-Read Collections
Some books are great. Some series, though? They become your whole world for months. These collections contain some of the best fantasy books and best sci fi books of all time, and if you’re the kind of reader who loves to live inside a world for a while—this part’s for you.
🧝♂️ The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Genre: Epic Fantasy
This series is the Everest of modern fantasy fiction books. With massive books (1000+ pages each), intricate plots, and a universe that rivals Marvel in scope, Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive is for the hardcore fantasy nerds. It’s part of his Cosmere universe, and yes—you will need a map (don’t worry, it’s included).
⭐ Why it’s on every best fantasy novels list: The magic system, called “Surgebinding,” is mind-blowingly creative, and the characters are unforgettable. Especially Kaladin. Oh, Kaladin…
🚀 The Expanse Series by James S. A. Corey
Genre: Space Opera / Science Fiction
Spanning nine books, The Expanse takes you from Mars to asteroid belts to political tension that feels eerily familiar. It’s what you’d get if Game of Thrones took place in space—with factions, betrayals, and gut-punch plot twists.
🧠 Why it’s one of the best science fiction novels series: It’s hyper-realistic, deeply emotional, and still delivers those fun books to escape reality vibes—without compromising the science.
🧙♀️ Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Genre: YA Fantasy / Fantasy Romance
Assassins, fae, secret powers, slow-burn romance—it’s got everything. Starting off as a Cinderella-retelling-meets-Hunger-Games, it quickly evolves into a sweeping, multi-realm fantasy saga.
💞 Why fantasy romance fans love it: Maas builds tension like no one else. By book 3, you’ll be crying, gasping, and shipping like mad.
🧟♂️ The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
Genre: Science Fantasy / Dystopian Sci-Fi
This Hugo Award-winning trilogy is one of the best sci fi books of all time—hands down. Jemisin weaves geology, social commentary, and apocalyptic threats into a mind-blowing narrative about a fractured world and the magic within it.
🎯 Fun fact: She became the first author to win the Hugo three years in a row—for all three books in this series. Yes, it’s that good.
🔥 Modern Hits: Recent Releases Worth the Hype
While we’ve covered the best fantasy novels of all time, let’s not forget the new kids on the block. Here are a few recent books making waves across the fantasticfiction space.
“Iron Flame” by Rebecca Yarros (Fourth Wing Sequel)
Following the viral success of Fourth Wing, Iron Flame delivers even more dragons, battles, betrayals, and of course… the romance we were all waiting for. This series has become a staple in fantasy fiction books, especially for fans of dramatic, adrenaline-fueled fantasy romance books.
“He Who Drowned the World” by Shelley Parker-Chan
This sequel to She Who Became the Sun continues the gender-defying, empire-building brilliance of the first book. It’s sharp, poetic, and filled with internal and external wars. If you want political fantasy with a side of heartbreak, this delivers.
“Sea of Tranquility” by Emily St. John Mandel
A sci-fi novel that crosses centuries and timelines—connecting a 1912 violinist, a colony on the moon, and a writer touring Earth during a pandemic. Poignant and deeply introspective, this one’s for those who want science fiction novels that feel like poetry.
🌍 For Readers Who Want More: Sub-Genres & Mood Picks
Sometimes, you’re not just looking for the best fantasy books or the best sci fi books. You want books that match your mood. Here’s how to choose your next read based on how you’re feeling.
If You Want…
💖 A Fantasy That Feels Like a Love Story
Try: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
🗝️ A magical circus, two star-crossed magicians, and the kind of prose that reads like music.
💥 Fast-Paced Action That Hooks You from Page One
Try: Red Rising by Pierce Brown
🔥 A rebellion, a brutal hierarchy on Mars, and a hero who becomes a legend.
🧠 Something That Will Make You Think
Try: Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer
🌿 Mind-bending, eerie, and haunting. What is the shimmer? What is humanity? What even is real?
🐉 Classic Fantasy Feels with Modern Feminism
Try: Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
✨ A Rumpelstiltskin retelling with powerful women and rich Eastern European folklore.
📖 FantasticFiction & Other Sites to Explore More
While you’re diving into your book adventure, don’t forget to use websites like FantasticFiction to track book series, author bibliographies, and reading orders. It’s a goldmine for staying on top of the best fantasy fiction books and best sci fi books of all time.
And of course—Riya’s Blogs is always updating lists and recommendations across genres. Bookmark us so you never miss a gem.
🎁 Final Takeaway: Reading Is the Real Magic
Whether you’re flipping through the pages of the best fantasy novels ever written, losing sleep over the best science fiction novels, or searching for fun books to escape reality after a long day—you’re doing something powerful. You’re giving your mind permission to dream, to question, and to believe in the impossible.
So what are you waiting for? Start with just one of these amazing stories. Lose yourself in the dragons, the stars, the sword fights, the AI battles, the fae kisses, the space operas, the dystopias… and find yourself somewhere you’ve never been before.
And when you do—come back and tell Riya’s Blogs all about it. We’re always here, with more stories and more worlds to explore.
Want to read a bit more? Find some more of my writings here-
Dirty Jokes That’ll Leave You Blushing and Laughing — A Collection of Funny Adult Jokes
Escape to Magical Worlds – The Best Fantasy TV Shows That Will Completely Enchant You
Discovering Joy: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Hobby for Women of All Ages
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