Finding a book that captures the magic of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings is no easy feat. For over a century, Tolkien's legendary fantasy novels have captivated readers, inspiring countless films, TV shows, and video games. Here at IGN, we relish both literary adventures and a good challenge, so we've compiled a list of books guaranteed to evoke the same emotions and wonder that Tolkien's epic series ignited. Whether you crave second breakfast, crave thrilling battles, or yearn for the sweeping fantasy of Middle-earth, this list offers something for every Tolkien enthusiast.
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 leading up to Legends and Lattes, we see her after a battle injury forces her to settle in a seaside town. A far cry from the battlefield, this slower pace allows Viv to reflect on life and its meaning. Ideal for D&D fans and those seeking a fantasy world with lower stakes than saving the world.
Price: $8.49 at Amazon (53% off)
The King of Elfland’s Daughter (Folio Special Edition)
Limited to 500 copies. 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 daughter. Folio Society's stunning special edition brings this classic to life in a beautiful hardcover format, featuring an introduction by Erin Morgenstern, a foreword by Neil Gaiman, and original artwork by Julie Dillon. A truly magnificent addition to any fantasy collection.
Available at Folio Society
Lord of the Rings Boxed Set
Looking for hardcover copies of The Lord of the Rings for your bookshelf? Check out this fantastic boxed set:
Includes The Hobbit and all three Lord of the Rings books. Price: $34.99 at Amazon (42% off)
A Wizard of Earthsea (The Earthsea Cycle #1)
The first novel in Ursula K. Le Guin's essential Earthsea Cycle. This sprawling journey follows young Duny, a boy with immense power, as he learns to control it while navigating a dangerous world. Echoing Frodo Baggins's coming-of-age story, Le Guin's powerful and fantastical tale will instantly captivate readers of all ages. Price: $8.31 at Amazon (48% off)
The Eye of the World (The Wheel of Time Series #1)
Includes the first three books of this epic fantasy series. Robert Jordan's sweeping high fantasy series is often compared to Lord of the Rings. This first book introduces a vast and mystical world filled with strange creatures and powerful magic users, as a matriarchal community awaits a prophesied evil. Spanning 15 books, this series satisfies any fantasy craving and easily stands alongside Lord of the Rings. A Wheel of Time TV series also adapts the books for the screen. Price: $15.81 at Amazon (52% off)
The Cruel Prince (The Folk of the Air Series #1)
Includes three books: The Cruel Prince, The Wicked King, and The Queen of Nothing. Holly Black's YA series, set in the mystical and violent world of the Fae, features a young woman and her sister drawn into the underground realm and forced to live alongside the wicked royal family. A gripping and romantic fantasy series for fans of fantastical creatures, deep folklore, and the dark side of magic. Price: $29.98 at Amazon (23% off)
The Blacktongue Thief (Blacktongue #1)
Set in a world of goblin wars and assassins. This groundbreaking fantasy novel, released in 2021, subverts genre expectations. Kinch Na Shannack's life turns upside down when a simple scheme goes wrong. This dynamite adventure, blending familiar tropes with fresh innovation, feels like playing a tabletop game while watching Lord of the Rings. With more books in the series on the way, this is a must-read. Price: $12.99 at Amazon (32% off)
Song of Blood and Stone by L. Penelope (Earthsinger Chronicles #1)
Book 1 of 4 in the series. This contemporary fantasy novel plunges readers into a vibrant and brutal world torn apart by warring rulers. Jasminda, a young outsider, finds herself playing a crucial role in her kingdom's future. For those captivated by the political intrigue and warfare in Lord of the Rings, this treacherous novel will keep you enthralled until the very last page. Price: $9.99 at Amazon
The Name of the Wind (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1)
A New York Times bestseller. Often credited with redefining the genre, The Name of the Wind blends high fantasy and popular fiction. Set in Temerant, a world existing alongside the fae realm, this story follows a man with a dark secret seeking a new beginning in a world of wizards, knights, evil beings, and bards. Price: $9.99 at Amazon (55% off)
The Never Tilting World by Rin Chupeco
A world split between day and night. If the beauty of Rivendell captivated you in Lord of the Rings, you'll adore the lavish folklore of The Never Tilting World. Set in Aeon, a realm thrown into chaos by a betrayal between twin goddesses, this stunning fantasy adventure follows two contrasting young women on a life-altering journey. Price: $11.34 at Amazon (5% off)
