HBO’s House of the Dragon has sparked new interest in dragon fantasy. Fans are excitedly waiting for Season 3. Dragons have always been a fascinating part of fantasy stories. They symbolize power, mystery, and magic. In 2024, as readers look for new worlds to explore, there’s no better time to dive into the best dragon book series. Whether you’re a lifelong fantasy lover or new to the genre, these series offer thrilling adventures filled with fire-breathing beasts.
Why Do We Love Dragon Fantasy?
Before diving into the specific recommendations, it’s worth exploring why dragon fantasy books capture our imagination so powerfully. Dragons are more than just giant lizards with wings—they are legendary creatures steeped in mythology across many cultures. From the fearsome wyverns of European folklore to the wise, benevolent dragons of Eastern tradition, dragons symbolize everything from chaos and destruction to wisdom and protection.
In fantasy literature, dragons often embody the untamed, awe-inspiring aspects of magic and nature. Their size, strength, and intelligence make them formidable allies—or dangerous enemies. But it’s not just their power that makes dragons so fascinating. The relationships between humans and dragons, whether bonded by magic or enmity, often reflect deep themes of trust, loyalty, and the struggle for control over forces greater than oneself.
For readers, the presence of dragons in a story signals epic stakes, larger-than-life characters, and a sense of wonder that only fantasy can deliver. If you’re drawn to these awe-inspiring creatures, the following dragon book series are a must-read in 2024.
1. Eragon by Christopher Paolini (The Inheritance Cycle)
Christopher Paolini’s Eragon is an iconic entry into the world of dragon fantasy, especially for younger readers. Originally written by Paolini as a teenager, the series has become a staple of modern fantasy literature. Set in the fictional land of Alagaësia, Eragon follows the journey of a young farm boy who discovers a mysterious blue stone, which turns out to be a dragon egg. From that moment on, Eragon’s life is changed forever as he becomes bonded to the dragon Saphira and embarks on a journey to save his world from a tyrannical empire.
What sets Eragon apart from other fantasy novels is the relationship between the protagonist and his dragon. Saphira isn’t just a majestic beast; she’s a fully developed character with her own thoughts, emotions, and personality. The bond between Eragon and Saphira is at the heart of the series, providing both emotional depth and moments of levity.
While the Inheritance Cycle is often compared to classics like The Lord of the Rings, Paolini brings his own unique voice to the genre, creating a world rich with lore, ancient magic, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re new to fantasy or a seasoned reader, Eragon remains a classic that’s perfect for anyone seeking a dragon book series with heart and adventure.
2. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean Series)
If you’re in the mood for dragon fantasy with a modern twist, Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing is a fresh and exciting entry to the genre. This book took the literary world by storm in 2023, particularly gaining popularity on social media platforms like BookTok, where fans couldn’t stop raving about its intense storyline and captivating world-building.
Fourth Wing takes place in a brutal dragon rider academy where students must undergo deadly trials to earn their place among the elite. The protagonist, a strong-willed student, fights for survival as she navigates the cutthroat environment, building relationships with fellow students and dragons alike. Yarros masterfully combines elements of romance, action, and magic, creating a series that appeals to fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas.
The dragons in Fourth Wing are as fierce as they are fascinating, becoming more than just background elements to the story. The high-stakes challenges at the academy, paired with the complex relationships between characters, make this series a page-turner for anyone who enjoys dragon-centric fantasy with a dash of romance and intrigue.
3. Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin (A Song of Ice and Fire)
It’s impossible to talk about dragons in modern fantasy without mentioning George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire. Dragons play a central role in both the books and the television series, Game of Thrones, and fans of House of the Dragon will appreciate the rich dragon lore that Martin brings to his world.
In A Song of Ice and Fire, dragons had long been thought extinct, but Daenerys Targaryen’s discovery of dragon eggs marks the return of these awe-inspiring creatures to the world of Westeros. The dragons of Westeros are not merely animals—they are symbols of power, destruction, and rebirth. Daenerys’ relationship with her dragons grows as the series progresses, and they become her most loyal and powerful allies.
Martin’s portrayal of dragons is unique in that they are treated both with reverence and fear. Dragons are not pets or companions; they are wild, dangerous, and capable of great destruction. Their presence in the story raises the stakes of every battle and political conflict, turning the tides of wars and reshaping the world’s power structure.
For fans looking to explore a dragon book series with complex characters, intricate political intrigue, and dragons that command both fear and awe, A Song of Ice and Fire is an essential read.
4. The Bound and the Broken by Ryan Cahill
Ryan Cahill’s The Bound and the Broken is a self-published gem that has quickly gained a dedicated fan base. The series follows Calen Bryer, a young man who, much like Eragon, rises from humble beginnings to become a powerful dragon rider. What makes Cahill’s series stand out is its darker tone and more mature themes, making it an excellent pick for adult readers who enjoy fantasy with complex world-building and deep moral dilemmas.
Cahill has drawn inspiration from classic dragon rider stories, but he adds his own unique spin. The dragons in this series are majestic yet dangerous creatures, and their relationship with their riders is one of mutual respect and power. The world of The Bound and the Broken is filled with political intrigue, war, and personal sacrifice, making it a richly layered fantasy world that pulls readers in from the first page.
If you enjoy a more mature take on the dragon rider trope, with a story that delves into themes of power, responsibility, and loyalty, The Bound and the Broken should be at the top of your list in 2024.
Read our book review of Of Fire and Blood by Ryan Cahill HERE
5. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Few dragons are as iconic as Smaug, the antagonist of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Smaug is the quintessential dragon—greedy, cunning, and immensely powerful. His hoarding of treasure in the Lonely Mountain sets the stage for one of the most beloved adventure tales in fantasy literature.
Bilbo Baggins’ journey to steal from Smaug’s hoard brings readers face to face with one of the most dangerous and intelligent dragons in literature. Smaug’s presence looms large over the entire story, and his eventual confrontation with Bilbo is a masterclass in suspense and dialogue. Tolkien’s portrayal of Smaug as a sentient, malevolent force adds layers to the traditional dragon trope, making him both fearsome and fascinating.
While The Hobbit is often seen as a children’s book, its themes of courage, greed, and heroism resonate with readers of all ages. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or revisiting it after many years, The Hobbit remains one of the most influential dragon books ever written.
6. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin (Earthsea Cycle)
Ursula K. Le Guin’s A Wizard of Earthsea is a high-fantasy classic that deserves a place on every dragon lover’s bookshelf. While the story primarily follows the journey of Ged, a young wizard, dragons play a significant role in the Earthsea universe. Le Guin’s dragons are ancient, wise creatures, more akin to gods than animals. They possess a deep understanding of magic and the world, and their interactions with humans often reflect broader themes of balance, power, and knowledge.
The dragons of Earthsea are neither inherently good nor evil; instead, they exist in a world where magic and nature are inextricably linked. Le Guin’s nuanced approach to dragons reflects her broader philosophy of storytelling, where morality is never black and white. For readers seeking a dragon book series that goes beyond traditional fantasy tropes and explores deeper philosophical questions, A Wizard of Earthsea is an essential read.
7. The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter (The Burning Series)
Evan Winter’s The Rage of Dragons brings a fresh perspective to the dragon fantasy genre with its African-inspired setting and high-octane action. In this world, dragons are not just mythical creatures—they are directly tied to the magic system, with female magicians able to summon and control these powerful beasts to turn the tide of battle.
The Rage of Dragons is notable for its intense, action-packed sequences and its focus on themes of revenge, warfare, and survival. The protagonist, Tau, is driven by personal loss and seeks to rise through the ranks of warriors to achieve his goal of vengeance. The dragons in this series are fierce, deadly weapons, used in the brutal and never-ending conflicts between the kingdoms.
Winter’s debut novel has been hailed as one of the best new entries in the fantasy genre, and the series continues to build momentum as more readers discover its unique take on dragons and magic. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, emotionally charged dragon book series to add to your list in 2024, The Rage of Dragons is a must-read.
These dragon book series offer a wide variety of experiences, from epic quests and magical schools to political intrigue and personal growth. Whether you’re revisiting a classic like The Hobbit or diving into new adventures with The Rage of Dragons, there’s a dragon story here for every reader. Let these tales transport you to worlds where dragons soar, magic reigns, and anything is possible in 2024.