Dragons, Magic, and Mayhem: Must-Read Fantasy Novels That Slay
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In honor of Onyx Storm, we’re bringing you the best fantasy books with dragons. Because what’s a world without a little fire, fury, and flight? From the sweeping tales of dragon riders to richly woven dragon fantasy books, these stories take you deep into realms where dragons rule the skies and ignite the pages. Whether you’re craving the spellbinding magic of Naomi Novik, the epic adventures of Christopher Paolini, or new worlds brimming with adult fantasy intrigue, this list is your gateway to unforgettable legends. So, grab your first book from this dragon-filled series, and let’s dive into the history, fire, and majesty of the genre. The only question is: which dragon will claim your loyalty?
The Best Fantasy Books with Dragons your TBR would be incomplete without them!
“Fireborn” by Rosaria Munda

What do you get when you cross the political intrigue of Game of Thrones with the adrenaline of Fourth Wing? A story that soars on dragon wings and doesn’t hold back. Fireborn plunges you into a world where loyalty, love, and vengeance collide in the sky. Annie and Lee’s tumultuous bond is forged in the ashes of the revolution. One a lowborn survivor, the other a privileged orphan of the fallen elite. Now rivals in a fiercely competitive dragon-riding fleet, their shared history becomes both weapon and weakness.
But when ghosts of the past emerge, the battle isn’t just for dominance—it’s for survival. With dragons as their allies and enemies, and war igniting on all sides. Fireborn asks the ultimate question: Who deserves to hold power, and at what cost?
This young adult dragon fantasy masterfully blends romance, epic fantasy, and moral conflict. This is your next must-read if you love dragon books with unforgettable worlds and layered storytelling. Perfect for readers who dream of soaring into adult fantasy with emotional depth and edge-of-your-seat intensity.
“Breath of the Dragon” by Shannon Lee and Fonda Lee

For those who crave tales of epic trials, forbidden ambition, and the whispers of destiny etched in dragon scales, Breath of the Dragon is your next obsession. Sixteen-year-old Jun has spent his life overshadowed by a twin blessed with the mystical breathmark and burdened by a family disgrace he’s desperate to erase. The Guardian’s Tournament, a proving ground for the fiercest warriors, is his one shot to claim honor and purpose. The fabled Scroll of Heaven. If he’s willing to defy his father’s wishes and risk everything.
From secret journeys to harrowing battles, Jun’s path is forged in fire and sacrifice. Each round of the tournament unravels a greater truth. This isn’t just a fight for glory but for the very survival of his country and those he loves.
This dragon fantasy book delivers breathtaking action, intricate worldbuilding, and characters who feel like they could leap off the page. Dragon scales and all. Fans of fantasy books with heart, history, and high stakes won’t want to miss this. Trust us, this is one story that will leave you breathless.
“Ascendant” by Michael Miller

This is one of the best fantasy books with dragons and I will never not recommend it!
What happens when the lowest in the ranks dares to rewrite destiny? Ascendant is a dragon rider epic fantasy that flips the script on the chosen one trope. Delivering a story brimming with grit, heart, and rebellion. Holt Cook is no warrior, noble, and certainly no hero. Just a servant who cleans pots in the Order Hall of the Crag. That is until he makes a choice no one else dared. To defy tradition and rescue a dragon deemed unworthy by the Order.
With a blind hatchling by his side and a magical core brimming with untapped power. Holt must rise against the undead Scourge, navigate betrayal, and prove that worth isn’t born. It’s forged. This dragon fantasy book marries the wonder of Eragon with the intricacies of Will Wight’s magic systems. Creating a world of danger, daring, and dragons unlike any other.
Perfect for readers who believe greatness can come from the unlikeliest places. Ascendant is a must-read fantasy series that will have you cheering for the underdog and yearning for the next chapter.
“Dragon Keeper” by Robin Hobb

It wouldn’t be a list of the best fantasy books with dragons if there wasn’t a little Robin Hobb.
When the world forgets its promises, dragons remember. In Dragon Keeper, Robin Hobb invites us into a story as rich and turbulent as the river carrying a caravan of outcast dragons and their unlikely human companions. Once revered, these dragons. Hatched weak and deformed—have become a burden to the Traders. Their only hope lies in the mythical city of Kelsingra, a place that exists only in fragmented memories.
Leading this perilous journey is Thymara, a resourceful forest girl who defies her village’s rigid rules. And Alise, a scholar shackled in a loveless marriage but burning with a deep fascination for dragon history. They navigate treacherous waters, both literal and emotional, alongside a ragtag group of tenders, learning that dragons aren’t the only creatures shaped by adversity.
This is more than a fantasy book. It’s an exploration of survival, growth, and the bonds forged between dragons and readers alike. With Robin Hobb’s signature depth and world-building, Dragon Keeper is an odyssey for those who crave adult fantasy series steeped in heartache, resilience, and unforgettable characters. Let the journey begin.
“Uprooted” by Naomi Novik

In the shadow of the malevolent Wood, where corruption seeps into the earth and hearts alike. Uprooted unravels a story that’s equal parts enchanting and terrifying. Agnieszka loves her home. A serene valley surrounded by a shining river and lush forests. But the looming threat of the Wood and its dark magic casts a long shadow.
Enter the Dragon: a cold, enigmatic wizard who demands one young woman every ten years to serve him in exchange for protecting the valley. Everyone is certain he’ll choose Kasia, Agnieszka’s beautiful, capable best friend. But the Dragon’s choice defies expectations, plunging Agnieszka into a world of magic, peril, and a battle against a force that seems impossible to defeat.
Naomi Novik’s fantasy book is a lyrical exploration of friendship, resilience, and the power of ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. For those who crave dark fairy tales with a strong heroine, lush storytelling, and a touch of romance, Uprooted will root itself in your heart and refuse to let go. It’s no wonder Novik is a favorite among dragon fantasy and adult fantasy series enthusiasts—this book is pure magic.
“The Ruin of Kings” by Jen Lyon

What happens when the story you’ve been told about yourself turns out to be a lie? The Ruin of Kings shatters expectations and redefines destiny. Kihrin grows up as a thief in the gritty slums of Quur, far from the noble life he never knew he was meant to inherit. When he’s thrust into the brutal world of courtly intrigue as the missing son of a treasonous prince, Kihrin battles for survival against ruthless family politics, ancient dragons, and dark prophecies.
As Kihrin uncovers the truth about his origins, he realizes he isn’t the hero the storybooks promised. The dragons, demons, and gods of his world aren’t part of a grand, heroic tale—they are the very forces of chaos threatening to destroy everything he knows. In a world where fate is written in blood, and no one is truly safe, The Ruin of Kings asks the question: What if the hero is actually the villain?
This dragon fantasy is a high-octane blend of adult fantasy with unexpected twists, flawed characters, and the kind of world-building that drags you under its spell. For those who love their fantasy books with a side of betrayal, blood, and the looming threat of destruction, this one’s for you. Get ready for a story that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about fate and heroism.
“Heavenly Bodies” by Imani Erriu

In a realm ruled by cruel gods who are as beautiful as they are merciless, Elara is cursed by fate itself. A prophecy has declared that she will fall in love with a Star, and their doomed connection will tear them both apart. As heavenly bodies cast their cold gaze upon her world, Elara’s life becomes marked by a love that could lead to destruction. When one of these powerful entities descends to wreak havoc on her kingdom, she flees—into the arms of her sworn enemy.
On the run, Elara discovers more about the magic that pulses through her veins, a dark power tied to shadows and night, begging for release. As she trains under the enemy prince destined to weaponize her, Elara uncovers the depth of the Stars’ deceit and discovers the strength within herself to break free from their grasp.
Heavenly Bodies is an intoxicating blend of romance, betrayal, and power, drawing readers into a world of fantasy where the gods are as unpredictable as the stars themselves. For fans of dark magic, prophecies, and love stories that burn with danger, this book is a celestial adventure you’ll never forget. If you’re ready for a heroine who defies fate and a world that demands everything, this one is for you.
Which of these Dragon Books will you add to your TBR? Let us know in the comments!
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