Finding a book that captures the magic of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings is a quest in itself. For over a century, Tolkien's legendary fantasy novels have captivated readers, inspiring countless films, TV shows, and video games. Here at IGN, we embrace both the challenge and the love of a good book, so we've compiled a list of the best reads to evoke the same feelings that Tolkien's epic series inspires. Whether you crave second breakfast, yearn for thrilling battles, or adore the sweeping fantasy of Middle-earth, this list has something for every Tolkien fan.
AnswerSee ResultsSee our guide to the Lord of the Rings Books to see everything in the series.Bookshops & Bonedust (Legends & Lattes Series #0)
From New York Times bestselling author Travis Baldree. This prequel to Baldree's bestselling Legends and Lattes is perfect for readers who cherish the cozy meals and quiet moments in Lord of the Rings. Following Viv the Orc in the years before Legends and Lattes, we see her recovering from injuries sustained during a raid, finding solace in a small seaside town. A far cry from the battlefield, this allows her to reflect on life and its meaning. Ideal for D&D fans and those seeking a lower-stakes fantasy world.
$17.99 save 53% $8.49 at Amazon
The King of Elfland’s Daughter (Folio Special Edition)
Considered a major influence on Tolkien, The King of Elfland’s Daughter is a seminal work of fantasy literature. Written by Lord Dunsany in 1924, it follows Alveric, a lord's son, on an epic quest to find the titular child. Folio Society recently released a stunning limited edition of this novel, beautifully presented in hardcover. The book includes an introduction by Erin Morgenstern, a foreword by Neil Gaiman, and original artwork by Julie Dillon—a breathtaking addition to any fantasy collection.
Only 500 copies total. See it at Folio Society
Lord of the Rings Boxed Set
Looking for hardcover Lord of the Rings books for your bookshelf? Check out this great box set:
Includes the Hobbit and all 3 Lord of the Rings books. $59.99 save 42% $34.99 at Amazon
A Wizard of Earthsea (The Earthsea Cycle #1)
No fantasy list is complete without Ursula K. Le Guin. A Wizard of Earthsea, the first book in her Earthsea Cycle, follows young Duny, a boy with immense power. As he learns to control his abilities, he comes of age in a dangerous world, echoing Frodo Baggins' journey. Le Guin's writing is instantly immersive, and this is one of her most powerful and fantastical tales.
$15.99 save 48% $8.31 at Amazon
The Eye of the World (The Wheel of Time Series #1)
Robert Jordan's epic Wheel of Time series is frequently compared to Lord of the Rings, and rightly so. This high fantasy series matches the scope and grandeur of Tolkien's work. In the first book, a matriarchal society awaits a prophesied evil, while a mysterious woman's arrival changes a small town forever. Spanning 15 books, this series satisfies any fantasy craving and stands alongside Lord of the Rings for many readers. A Wheel of Time TV series also adapts the books for the screen.
Includes the first 3 books of the epic fantasy series. $32.97 save 52% $15.81 at Amazon
The Cruel Prince (The Folk of the Air Series #1)
Holly Black's The Cruel Prince is a must-read for fans of fantastical creatures, deep folklore, and the darker aspects of magic. This captivating YA series is set in the dangerous world of the Fae, where a young woman and her sister are drawn into the underground realm and forced to navigate the wicked royal family. A gripping, exciting, and romantic fantasy series.
Includes 3 books: The Cruel Prince, The Wicked King, and The Queen of Nothing. $39.00 save 23% $29.98 at Amazon
The Blacktongue Thief (Blacktongue #1)
This breakout fantasy novel, set in a world of goblin wars and assassins, subverts genre expectations. Kinch Na Shannack's life turns upside down when a simple scheme goes wrong. This fresh take on familiar tropes feels like playing a tabletop game while watching Lord of the Rings—a thrilling adventure that leaves you wanting more.
Set in a world of goblin wars and assassins. $18.99 save 32% $12.99 at Amazon
Song of Blood and Stone by L. Penelope (Earthsinger Chronicles #1)
Song of Blood and Stone transports readers to a vibrant yet brutal fantasy world torn apart by warring rulers. Jasminda, a young outsider, finds herself pivotal to her kingdom's future. If you appreciate the political intrigue and warfare in Lord of the Rings, this treacherous novel will captivate you until the very end.
Book 1 of 4 in the series. $9.99 at Amazon
The Name of the Wind (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1)
Often credited with redefining the fantasy genre, The Name of the Wind blends high fantasy and popular fiction. Set in Temerant, a world alongside the mystical fae realm, this story follows a man with a dark secret seeking a new beginning in a world filled with wizards, knights, evil beings, and bards.
A New York Times bestseller. $22.00 save 55% $9.99 at Amazon
The Never Tilting World by Rin Chupeco
If the beauty of Rivendell captivated you, you'll adore the lavish folklore of The Never Tilting World. Set in a world ruled by twin goddesses, this fantasy adventure unfolds after one sister's betrayal plunges Aeon into chaos. Two contrasting young women embark on a journey that could change their world forever.
A world split between day and night. $11.99 save 5% $11.34 at Amazon
