Dark fantasy has carved out a chilling and captivating corner of the fantasy genre, blending the mystical with the macabre. With the immense success of Game of Thrones, the appetite for grim worlds and morally ambiguous characters has only grown among fantasy readers. Gone are the days when fantasy books were considered primarily for kids and young adults. If you’re craving tales of dark worlds and complex heroes (or villains), here are 10 dark fantasy books and series you simply must read.
1. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin (5 books – Ongoing)
Let’s start with the obvious. George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire is the crown jewel of grimdark fantasy. The series skyrocketed in popularity thanks to HBO’s Game of Thrones, but the books themselves are masterpieces of political intrigue, war, and morally grey characters.
Even if you’ve seen the show, fans insist the books offer a richer experience, with countless subplots and character arcs waiting to ensnare you. And yes, we’re all still (im)patiently waiting for The Winds of Winter.
2. The Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne (3 books – Completed)
John Gwynne is a master at crafting dark fantasy worlds where danger lurks in every shadow, and no character is safe. The final book, The Fury of the Gods, concluded the trilogy with a bang, earning critical acclaim. If you’re looking for a fresh take on dark fantasy, The Bloodsworn Saga is a must-read.
3. Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson (10 books – Completed)
If epic complexity and dark, brutal worlds are your thing, Malazan Book of the Fallen is the holy grail of fantasy books. With an ensemble cast spanning multiple continents and dimensions, Steven Erikson weaves a tale of war, death, and betrayal that’s not for the faint of heart. This series is a marathon, not a sprint—but oh, what a journey it is!
4. The Green Bone Saga by Fonda Lee (3 books – Completed)
Described as The Godfather meets fantasy, Fonda Lee’s Green Bone Saga brings family drama and bloody power struggles to the forefront. Jade City introduced readers to a gripping tale of warring clans where alliances are fragile, and betrayal is inevitable. This modern dark fantasy series will keep you on the edge of your seat.
5. Berserk by Kentaro Miura (41 volumes – Ongoing)
Few stories capture the essence of dark fantasy like Kentaro Miura’s Berserk. This manga is not for the faint of heart—it’s a harrowing tale of vengeance, survival, and the human condition. Guts’ journey unfolds against some of the most breathtaking artwork in the genre. If you’re new to manga but love dark fantasy, this masterpiece is a perfect place to start.
6. The Black Company by Glen Cook (10 books – Completed)
Glen Cook’s The Black Company laid the groundwork for much of today’s grimdark fantasy. This gritty tale follows a mercenary group navigating war, betrayal, and shifting loyalties. While some aspects may feel dated, its influence on the genre—particularly series like A Song of Ice and Fire and Malazan—is undeniable.
7. The Second Apocalypse by R. Scott Bakker (7 books – Ongoing)
R. Scott Bakker’s The Second Apocalypse series is a dark fantasy epic often compared to the likes of Dark Souls and Elden Ring in book form. This brutal, mind-bending series isn’t for the faint of heart but offers a unique and deeply philosophical exploration of humanity, power, and the divine.
8. Red Rising by Pierce Brown (6 books – Ongoing)
Okay, so this is technically sci-fi—but hear me out. Pierce Brown’s Red Rising series blends science fiction and fantasy elements in a brutal tale of rebellion, power, and betrayal. With its morally grey characters and unflinching depiction of war, it’s perfect for fans of dark fantasy looking to venture into a new realm. And trust me, once you start, you won’t want to stop.
Curious about Red Rising? Explore our ranking of the series
9. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie (9 books – Completed)
If you’re waiting for The Winds of Winter, Joe Abercrombie’s First Law series is the perfect distraction. Known as the “Lord of Grimdark,” Abercrombie crafts morally complex characters and sharp, unpredictable plots. The series is a masterclass in dark fantasy, with unforgettable anti-heroes and a biting sense of humor.
Check out our First Law reading order
10. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang (3 books – Completed)
The Poppy War trilogy plunges readers into a grim, war-torn world inspired by China’s Song Dynasty. Following Rin, a young war orphan, the series explores the devastating consequences of power, war, and vengeance. Kuang doesn’t shy away from showing the horrors of conflict, making this a dark fantasy series that’s as thought-provoking as it is haunting.
Why Dark Fantasy Captivates Us
Dark fantasy offers a raw, unfiltered look at humanity—both its flaws and its resilience. For fantasy readers, these stories provide a gritty escape, where the stakes are high, and the heroes (or anti-heroes) are as flawed as the worlds they inhabit.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the genre, these dark fantasy books and series are sure to leave a lasting impression. Dive into the shadows and discover why this subgenre continues to capture the hearts of fantasy readers everywhere.
Embrace the dark side of fantasy, and happy reading!