The debut novel of a fantasy series plays a crucial role in shaping its future, significantly affecting whether readers will continue to follow the storyline or abandon it entirely. A strong first impression is essential, particularly in the realms of world-building, intricate magic systems, and well-developed characters. While many series aim for a powerful opening, it can take time for them to truly establish their presence and narrative style. It’s quite rare for a story to explode onto the scene, with the first book immediately recognized as a perfect 10/10 read.

When a fantasy series successfully launches with a remarkable first installment, it adds to the excitement of what might follow. Some of these novels pave the way for series where every subsequent book maintains an exceptional rating of 10/10. Even if the momentum falters later on, a compelling beginning is often sufficient to keep readers engaged from start to finish. This is why numerous series that open with impressive first books eventually achieve widespread popularity and acclaim.

8

Discover the Magic of The Lord Of The Rings By J.R.R. Tolkien

First Book: Experience The Fellowship Of The Ring (1954)

It’s widely acknowledged that J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings presents a stellar first book, earning a perfect 10/10. Although initially conceived as a single narrative, it is commonly found in bookstores divided into three volumes, with The Fellowship of the Ring heralding the beginning of this epic saga. This first book serves as a breathtaking introduction, effectively capturing the enchanting essence of Middle-earth while emphasizing the darker implications of Frodo’s dangerous quest to destroy the One Ring.

Both The Two Towers and The Return of the King also achieve a perfect score of 10/10, arguably elevating the narrative to even greater heights than the first book. However, The Fellowship of the Ring stands strong against its sequels, with its charming quest narrative offering a lighthearted tone that distinguishes it. It’s nearly impossible to read the first part of Tolkien’s epic without feeling compelled to follow the rest of the journey. There’s a compelling reason why LOTR is regarded as a masterpiece in fantasy literature, as all three volumes deliver an outstanding reading experience.

7

Dive Into A Song Of Ice And Fire By George R.R. Martin

First Book: Unravel The Story In A Game Of Thrones (1996)

A Song of Ice and Fire immediately immerses readers in George R.R. Martin’s sprawling and intricate world. From the very first book, the extensive cast of characters and detailed depictions of Westeros may feel overwhelming, but they signify a masterfully crafted narrative. Moreover, the first book of A Song of Ice and Fire offers much more than just a rich setting. While A Game of Thrones may not be the pinnacle of Martin’s series— that title likely belongs to A Storm of Swords— it ranks highly among all the volumes.

A Game of Thrones disrupts conventional expectations with its tragic ending, delivering a profound emotional impact. The tension leading up to Ned Stark’s demise is filled with intense political intrigue and captivating character moments, ensuring that readers remain engaged throughout this lengthy fantasy novel. Clearly, ASOIAF boasts a stronger opening than many other prominent series within the genre. The first book resonates just as powerfully as the HBO adaptation’s inaugural season, both foreshadowing even greater developments to come.

6

Explore Mistborn Era 1 By Brandon Sanderson

First Book: Discover Mistborn: The Final Empire (2006)

Brandon Sanderson has successfully crafted two fantasy series where each book achieves a perfect score of 10/10, with <em>Mistborn</em> Era 1 standing out as one of them. The initial Mistborn trilogy maintains a remarkable quality throughout, although it seldom surpasses the impact of the first volume. Mistborn: The Final Empire uniquely fuses aspects of dystopian and sci-fi genres within its fantasy framework, introducing readers to one of the most innovative magic systems in contemporary fantasy literature. The story also emphasizes a strong found family dynamic as the protagonists embark on an audacious, heist-like mission.

There is an abundance of fascinating elements within Mistborn: The Final Empire. While the following books successfully broaden the scope and elevate the stakes in Sanderson’s narrative, they often fail to recapture the initial magic. The entire trilogy presents significant themes regarding oppression and resisting it, but these messages are most poignant in the first book. The connections between characters feel most vibrant and engaging in this inaugural volume, while the action sequences are exhilarating (though they remain impressive throughout the series).

5

Experience The Poppy War Series By R.F. Kuang

First Book: Delve Into The Poppy War (2018)

R.F. Kuang gained significant recognition for her 2022 novel Babel and the forthcoming 2025 release, Katabasis, but it was her Poppy War trilogy that initially propelled her career. This gritty fantasy narrative draws deeply from the historical realities of the Second Sino-Japanese War, tackling themes of violence with brutal honesty. While it may not always provide a comfortable reading experience, the craftsmanship behind it is exceptional, ensuring that the series lingers in the minds of readers long after they turn the final page. The high quality of the entire series can be traced back to its remarkable opening volume, as 2018’s The Poppy War has minimal flaws to note.

The Poppy War not only delivers a harrowing exploration of warfare and injustice, but it also adeptly addresses these serious themes while providing remarkable world-building, deep character development, and an enticing magic system. Its accolades, including the Compton Crook Award (via LibraryThing) and the Crawford Award in 2019 (via Locus Online), underscore its quality. The book’s success is further amplified by the fact that it marks Kuang’s debut.

4

Uncover The Legendborn Cycle By Tracy Deonn

First Book: Journey Through Legendborn (2020)

Tracy Deonn’s Legendborn Cycle is an ongoing series that has yet to disappoint its fans, and the first book clearly illustrates why this YA fantasy series is so cherished. The 2020 novel Legendborn invites readers to accompany its protagonist, Bree, as she uncovers a secret society rooted in Arthurian legend while attending her university’s early college program. The unique Arthurian elements and the enchanting magic depicted in Legendborn create an unforgettable reading experience.

Beyond its engaging reinterpretation of Arthurian legend, Deonn’s series skillfully intertwines social commentary and effectively resonates with readers through the emotional ties between characters. The Legendborn Cycle continues to improve with each installment, and the latest book, Oathbound, stands as a testament to that growth. This first novel, released in 2020, encapsulates everything one could hope for in a fantasy narrative, making it surprising that it hasn’t yet been adapted for screen.

3

Explore His Dark Materials By Philip Pullman

First Book: Experience The Golden Compass (1995)

His Dark Materials is heralded as a classic in children’s fantasy literature, and its strengths persist throughout the entire series. However, The Golden Compass serves as an exceptional starting point, as the 1995 book skillfully draws readers into its fantastical universe filled with Daemons and Dust. It also introduces Lyra Belacqua, a resilient and admirable heroine, making it easier for readers to invest in her prophecy and challenges. Lyra stands out as a particularly refreshing protagonist for her time, and her journey continues to resonate decades after its initial publication.

The conclusion of The Golden Compass is surprisingly poignant for a children’s fantasy novel, setting the stage for the deep themes and conflicts explored in the sequels in a truly remarkable way. With The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass elevating the stakes, The Golden Compass sometimes does not receive the acknowledgment it truly deserves. Nonetheless, Pullman’s first entry in His Dark Materials is undoubtedly a 10/10 read, and the fact that its sequels maintain that quality adds to the series’ overall impressiveness.

2

Discover The Broken Earth Trilogy By N.K. Jemisin

First Book: Uncover The Fifth Season (2015)

The Broken Earth trilogy by N.K. Jemisin seamlessly blends elements of fantasy and science fiction, with each installment in the series being as impactful as its predecessor. Each volume boasts impressive ratings on Goodreads, illustrating its widespread acclaim. The positive reception is well-earned, as it’s challenging to find another series that matches the originality of The Broken Earth in terms of its unique magic systems, intricate character development, and distinctive settings. The first book, The Fifth Season, effectively introduces these elements, ensuring readers remain captivated from start to finish.

The Fifth Season excels in addressing profound themes through its narrative, such as discrimination and oppression, as well as the lasting effects of trauma. This emotional depth ensures that the series leaves a lasting impact from the very outset. It’s no surprise that The Fifth Season was awarded the Hugo Award in 2016; it serves as a powerful beginning to an extraordinary journey that continues to impress throughout the entire series.

1

Dive Into The Gentleman Bastard Sequence By Scott Lynch

First Book: Uncover The Lies Of Locke Lamora (2006)

Scott Lynch’s Gentleman Bastard Sequence ranks among the finest grimdark fantasy series ever created, with its inaugural installment standing out as the most impactful. Released in 2006, The Lies of Locke Lamora unfolds within a harsh and ruthless world; however, it triumphs by weaving a tale brimming with charm and vitality. This success primarily stems from its main characters and their intricate connections, which provide an emotional core to the heist narrative at the book’s heart. The profound character development amplifies the emotional weight of Lynch’s story, making the stakes feel even more significant.

In addition to its well-drawn characters, the intricate plotting and pacing of The Lies of Locke Lamora contribute to an enthralling reading experience. The dark and atmospheric world crafted by Lynch lingers in the minds of readers, securing the novel’s position as one of the most remarkable fantasy works of the last few decades, and undoubtedly one of the most impressive first entries in any series. If any first book deserves a perfect score, it’s The Lies of Locke Lamora. While its sequels are commendable, they rarely reach the heights of this exceptional debut.