It’s not easy to find fantasy book series that are perfect from start to finish, so it’s impressive when an author manages to pen one of them — and it’s especially noteworthy when they manage to write two. Crafting a full series that doesn’t suffer from a slow beginning, sophomore slump, or disappointing ending is no easy feat.
This is doubly true for fantasy series and individual novels, both of which tend to be on the lengthy side. It takes true talent to ensure that readers remain engaged throughout such a story, especially if the narrative has many running threads and character arcs. 10/10 fantasy book series might be rare, but there are a few writers who are attached to more than one.
These authors should be on every fantasy lover’s TBR, as they consistently deliver satisfying stories that will fully immerse readers from beginning to end. Those finding too much to complain about in their recent reads should give their series a try.
7
Brandon Sanderson
Mistborn & The Stormlight Archive
Brandon Sanderson is among the most prolific modern fantasy authors, so it will come as no surprise that he’s penned two 10/10 fantasy series — and a few standalones that come pretty close to perfect as well. Sanderson’s Mistborn books are beloved for a reason, and the author’s original trilogy consists of three spotless installments.
Although Sanderson never quite tops The Final Empire — at least, not in my opinion — The Well of Ascension and The Hero of Ages come pretty close. Neither has many flaws to dwell on, as Sanderson masterfully crafts his story, magic system, and characters. The magic system is particularly impressive, but the characters’ growth throughout the series is also a highlight.
The Stormlight Archive is even more beloved among Sanderson fans, and the first arc of the series is also pretty much flawless. Wind and Truth‘s ending brings it to a satisfying close, reminding readers that Sanderson isn’t one to disappoint. It won’t be a surprise if he churns out a few more 10/10 series in the future.
6
Joe Abercrombie
The First Law & The Age Of Madness
Joe Abercombie is another well-known name in the fantasy space. Indeed, The First Law trilogy is basically required reading, especially for fans of grimdark fantasy. And Abercrombie’s first series just gets better and better as it continues. The Last Argument of Kings cements it as a 10/10 series, ensuring that these complicated characters get a satisfying conclusion that will stick with readers forever.
Abercombie’s follow-up to The First Law, The Age of Madness trilogy is also a standout — and it leaves just as little to complain about. The author’s storytelling and prose continue to improve in this sequel series, which proves that next-generation narratives aren’t always subpar. The Age of Madness is different from The First Law, but it many ways, it’s just as compelling.
And if The Devils by Abercrombie is anything to judge by, it’s very possible he’ll have another 10/10 fantasy series on his hands soon enough. That’s no small accomplishment, and it’s even more incentive to pick up his work.
5
N.K. Jemisin
The Broken Earth & The Inheritance Trilogy
N.K. Jemisin is an iconic fantasy author, as many readers are familiar with The Broken Earth trilogy. And this series has a reputation for a good reason: it’s unlike almost any other fantasy story, weaving stunning prose, poignant themes, and complex characters together seamlessly. The Broken Earth gives Jemisin one 10/10 series to brag about, but the author also has another.
The Inheritance Trilogy isn’t as well-known as The Broken Earth, but it’s every bit as impressive — perhaps more so, since it was the author’s first published series. Like The Broken Earth, it tackles relevant topics in a powerful and hard-hitting way, and it features standout world-building from start to finish.
There’s no denying that Jemisin has a backlist full of must-reads.
Both of Jemisin’s fantasy series leave nothing on the table, and although Great Cities doesn’t quite reach their heights, it comes close. There’s no denying that Jemisin has a backlist full of must-reads.
4
Leigh Bardugo
Shadow And Bone & Six Of Crows
Leigh Bardugo’s Grisha Trilogy is a staple of the young adult fantasy craze of the 2010s, and it holds up surprisingly well, all things considered. Although readers have complaints about some of the romance dynamics in Shadow and Bone, they’re iconic in their own right. The Darkling’s toxic interest in Alina makes him all the more interesting, and Mal grows enough to forgive his earlier flaws.
Alina’s journey throughout the trilogy remains a powerful one, and Bardugo brings the Grisha Trilogy‘s running parts together well. Although Ruin and Rising‘s ending is somewhat controversial, it proves an emotional and memorable finale — and its final line will stick with you.
Bardugo surpasses Shadow and Bone and its sequels with her Six of Crows duology, which is even harder to find fault with. The narratives of each book are masterfully pieced together, and Bardugo juggles six complex perspectives without issue. The found-family dynamic is one that’s difficult to find elsewhere, and it ensures Bardugo has two 10/10 stories under her belt.
3
Rick Riordan
Percy Jackson And The Olympians & The Heroes Of Olympus
Percy Jackson & the Olympians may be aimed at a younger audience, but Rick Riordan’s fantasy series is the kind that even adults can enjoy. Its entertaining approach to Greek mythology, character dynamics, humor, and heart ensure it holds up, even more than a decade later. It’s easily a 10/10 middle grade fantasy series — one that gets better with each book.
And Riordan’s upwards trajectory doesn’t stop there. His sequel series, The Heroes of Olympus, proves even more impressive. There’s a reason every addition is so highly rated; it expands Riordan’s world in new and interesting ways, introduces even more great characters, and builds on the original story without feeling forced. Riordan repeatedly proves his talent with both series.
2
John Gwynne
The Faithful And The Fallen & The Bloodsworn Saga
John Gwynne’s Faithful and the Fallen series is a must-read for fantasy lovers, as it’s gripping from the beginning and remains engaging all the way through. It takes readers on an emotional journey, with Gwynne giving readers characters they’ll want to root for — which only makes certain turns even more devastating.
Gwynne establishes an immersive and believable world, injecting it with plenty of action and high stakes. All these things serve to make The Faithful and the Fallen a 10/10 fantasy series, and it’s not the only one the author has written.
The Bloodsworn Saga came to a close in 2024 with The Fury of the Gods — one of last year’s best fantasy books — and the finale cemented another perfect series from the author. Its use of Norse mythology, compelling characters, and gripping narrative all contribute to its success. At this point, it’s pretty clear Gwynne has a knack for delivering fantasy stories that are more or less flawless.
1
Rebecca Roanhorse
The Sixth World & Between Earth And Sky
Rebecca Roanhose is best known for the Between Earth and Sky trilogy, and the three books weave a story that leaves few things to criticize. Black Sun proves a stellar introduction to Roanhorse’s world, which is masterfully built. It also tackles poignant themes and establishes high stakes, which its sequels don’t fail to deliver on. Mirrored Heavens proves a satisfying conclusion, confirming the trilogy is 10/10.
Less recognizable is The Sixth World series by Roanhorse, but that doesn’t make it less memorable. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Trail of Lightning and Storm of Locusts unpack difficult and relevant environmental issues while also blending gods and monsters into the mix. It’s an intriguing fantasy series that will keep readers hooked for the entirety of both books, and it’s yet another basically perfect story.
