Fantasy is a genre that transports readers to magical realms filled with adventure, mythical creatures, and epic quests. If you’re a fan of the Legend of Zelda series and crave more tales that evoke a similar sense of wonder and excitement, you’re in luck. Here are 18 fantasy books that will immerse you in worlds just as enchanting and thrilling.
Books Similar to Fantasy Zelda
1. The Name of the Wind
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind follows the story of Kvothe, a magically gifted young man who grows into a legendary figure. The book is rich with detailed world-building and a captivating narrative that mirrors the adventurous spirit of Zelda. Highly recommended for its lyrical prose and intricate plot.
2. Mistborn: The Final Empire
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn: The Final Empire introduces readers to a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night. The protagonist, Vin, discovers her magical abilities and joins a rebellion against a tyrannical regime. This book’s unique magic system and epic storyline make it a must-read for Zelda enthusiasts.
3. The Way of Kings
Another masterpiece by Brandon Sanderson, The Way of Kings is the first book in the Stormlight Archive series. It features a richly detailed world and multiple intertwined storylines. Fans of Zelda will appreciate the epic scale and intricate lore that Sanderson weaves into his narrative.
4. The Eye of the World
Robert Jordan’s The Eye of the World kicks off the Wheel of Time series, a cornerstone of high fantasy literature. Following a group of young villagers who are thrust into a battle between good and evil, this book’s expansive world and deep mythology are perfect for fans of Zelda’s epic quests.
5. The Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is a timeless classic that follows Bilbo Baggins on an unexpected journey filled with danger and wonder. The book’s sense of adventure and richly imagined world make it an essential read for anyone who loves the spirit of exploration found in Zelda games.
6. Eragon
Christopher Paolini’s Eragon tells the story of a young farm boy who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on a quest to overthrow an evil empire. With its magical creatures and epic battles, this book captures the essence of fantasy adventure that Zelda fans will adore.
7. The Lies of Locke Lamora
Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora follows a group of skilled thieves in the city of Camorr. The book’s intricate plot, clever dialogue, and richly detailed world make it a thrilling read. Fans of Zelda will enjoy the cunning and resourcefulness of the protagonist.
8. The Priory of the Orange Tree
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree is a standalone epic that weaves together the stories of several characters in a world threatened by an ancient dragon. The book’s strong female protagonists and lush world-building make it an excellent choice for those who love epic fantasy.
9. The Black Prism
Brent Weeks’s The Black Prism features a unique magic system based on the manipulation of light. The story follows Kip, a young boy who discovers his magical abilities, and Gavin, the most powerful man in the world. The book’s fast-paced plot and inventive magic will captivate Zelda fans.
10. Sabriel
Garth Nix’s Sabriel is the first book in the Old Kingdom series, following a young necromancer on a quest to save her father. The book’s dark, magical world and compelling heroine make it a standout in the fantasy genre. Zelda fans will appreciate the blend of magic and adventure.
11. The Sword of Shannara
Terry Brooks’s The Sword of Shannara is a classic fantasy tale of a young hero’s quest to save the world from an evil warlock. The book’s epic scope and richly imagined world make it a must-read for fans of Zelda’s grand adventures.
12. The Belgariad
David Eddings’s The Belgariad series begins with Pawn of Prophecy, introducing readers to a young farm boy destined for greatness. The series’ engaging characters and classic fantasy elements will resonate with Zelda fans who enjoy tales of heroism and destiny.
13. The Chronicles of Prydain
Lloyd Alexander’s The Chronicles of Prydain follows the adventures of Taran, an assistant pig-keeper who dreams of becoming a hero. The series’ blend of Welsh mythology and classic fantasy tropes make it a delightful read for Zelda enthusiasts.
14. The Broken Empire
Mark Lawrence’s The Broken Empire trilogy begins with Prince of Thorns, a dark and gritty tale of revenge and redemption. The series’ complex protagonist and brutal world will appeal to readers who enjoy more mature and morally ambiguous fantasy.
15. The Earthsea Cycle
Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Earthsea Cycle starts with A Wizard of Earthsea, following the journey of a young wizard named Ged. The series’ thoughtful exploration of magic and identity, combined with its beautifully crafted world, make it a must-read for fantasy lovers.
16. The Witcher
Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher series, beginning with The Last Wish, follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a world filled with magic and intrigue. The series’ complex characters and morally nuanced storytelling will captivate fans of Zelda’s rich lore and adventurous spirit.
17. The Kingkiller Chronicle
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Kingkiller Chronicle series, starting with The Name of the Wind, chronicles the life of Kvothe, a legendary figure in a richly detailed world. The series’ lyrical prose and intricate plot make it a standout in the fantasy genre, perfect for Zelda fans seeking an epic tale.
18. The Stormlight Archive
Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive series, beginning with The Way of Kings, is an epic fantasy saga with a vast, intricately crafted world. The series’ complex characters and detailed magic system will enthrall readers who love the depth and adventure of the Zelda series.