Top 10 Fantasy Books Written in the 1980s: A Magical Decade of Imagination

The 1980s marked a transformative decade in fantasy literature. With the genre gaining mainstream popularity, authors pushed creative boundaries and built unforgettable worlds. From epic sword-and-sorcery sagas to dark fantasy masterpieces, these books left a lasting impact on the genre and continue to influence writers today.

In this post, we’re counting down the top 10 fantasy books of the 1980s that every redditor should add to their r/fantasy bingo card:

1. Magician by Raymond E. Feist (1982)

Magician by Raymond E. Feist is a sweeping epic fantasy that marks the beginning of the Riftwar Saga, introducing readers to the richly imagined worlds of Midkemia and Kelewan. The story follows the journey of Pug, an orphaned kitchen boy whose destiny takes a dramatic turn when he discovers a latent talent for magic. As he grows into his powers, Pug becomes entangled in a conflict that spans worlds, challenging the boundaries of loyalty, identity, and fate. With intricate world-building, political intrigue, and memorable characters, Magician lays the foundation for an expansive and immersive saga filled with wonder, war, and the enduring power of friendship and courage.

2. The Colour of Magic by Terry Pratchett (1983)

The Colour of Magic by Terry Pratchett is the first book in the beloved Discworld series, blending sharp wit, satire, and fantasy in a wildly imaginative narrative. Set on the flat, disc-shaped world of Discworld, which is supported by four giant elephants standing on the back of Great A'Tuin, the giant turtle, the novel follows the bumbling and often hapless wizard Rincewind as he reluctantly embarks on an adventure with a naive tourist named Twoflower. The story is filled with absurdities, clever humor, and Parody of fantasy tropes as Rincewind tries (and usually fails) to keep both himself and his companion alive. Through its engaging characters and riotous world-building, The Colour of Magic introduces readers to the unique blend of humor and depth that defines Pratchett’s Discworld series.

3. The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley (1983)

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley is a reimagining of the legendary Arthurian tales, told from the perspective of the women at the heart of the story, particularly Morgaine (the legendary Morgan le Fay). Set in a time of shifting political and religious power, the novel explores the conflict between the paganism of Avalon and the rise of Christianity, weaving themes of power, fate, and betrayal. Bradley's rich prose delves into the complexities of female strength, spirituality, and ambition as Morgaine navigates her complex relationships with her brother Arthur, her role as the High Priestess of Avalon, and her tumultuous place within the broader world. The Mists of Avalon redefines the Arthurian mythos, shifting focus from the knights and kings to the women who played pivotal roles behind the scenes.

4. It by Stephen King (1986)

It by Stephen King is a chilling horror novel that alternates between two timelines, following a group of childhood friends who reunite to confront a malevolent entity that has terrorized their small town of Derry, Maine. The entity, which takes the form of the sinister clown Pennywise, feeds on the fear of children, manipulating their nightmares and deepest anxieties. As the friends, known as the Losers' Club, face their past traumas and confront the horror that has plagued them for decades, King weaves a complex narrative exploring themes of friendship, memory, courage, and the power of collective will. The novel is both a haunting tale of supernatural terror and a poignant exploration of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable evil.

5. Pawn of Prophecy by David Eddings (1982)

Pawn of Prophecy by David Eddings is the first book in The Belgariad series, a classic high fantasy tale that follows the journey of Garion, a seemingly ordinary farm boy who unknowingly becomes entangled in a prophecy that will shape the fate of the world. As Garion’s world unravels, he discovers that his destiny is far greater than he ever imagined, involving ancient magic, political intrigue, and powerful, mysterious forces. Alongside a diverse group of companions, Garion embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about his lineage and the dark forces threatening to plunge the world into chaos. With its rich world-building, memorable characters, and themes of destiny, power, and self-discovery, Pawn of Prophecy sets the stage for an epic adventure filled with twists and revelations.

6. The Black Company by Glen Cook (1984)

The Black Company by Glen Cook is a gritty, military fantasy novel that follows the exploits of an elite mercenary group known as the Black Company. Set in a world where power struggles and warfare dominate, the story is told from the perspective of Croaker, the Company's physician and annalist, who documents the harsh realities of life as a soldier for hire. As the Black Company becomes entangled in the machinations of powerful sorcerers and a conflict that threatens the balance of the world, they face moral dilemmas, shifting allegiances, and brutal combat. Cook’s unique approach to storytelling focuses on the camaraderie, loyalty, and grim realities of war, providing a dark and nuanced look at heroism and survival in a turbulent, unforgiving world.

7. Mythago Wood by Robert Holdstock (1984)

Mythago Wood by Robert Holdstock is a captivating and atmospheric fantasy novel that blends mythology, memory, and the natural world. Set in the ancient, mysterious Ryhope Wood, the story follows the exploration of the forest by the protagonist, Steven Huxley, as he uncovers its deep secrets. The wood is a place where ancient myths and legends come to life, manifesting as "mythagos," living embodiments of mythological figures and stories. As Steven delves into the forest's mysteries, he grapples with his own family's history, the nature of reality, and the power of myth to shape human experience. Holdstock’s lyrical prose and intricate world-building explore themes of identity, memory, and the intersection of the mythical and the real, creating a haunting and thought-provoking narrative.

8. The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams (1988)

The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams is the first book in The Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy, a richly detailed epic fantasy set in the fictional world of Osten Ard. The story follows Simon, a young kitchen boy who finds himself caught up in the sweeping political and mystical upheaval of the land. As the kingdom faces the return of ancient evils and the resurgence of dark forces, Simon embarks on a journey of self-discovery, filled with magic, intrigue, and the weight of destiny. With its intricate world-building, memorable characters, and exploration of themes like power, loss, and identity, The Dragonbone Chair sets the stage for an expansive and emotionally resonant tale of heroism and fate.

9. Weaveworld by Clive Barker (1987)

Weaveworld by Clive Barker is a dark and imaginative fantasy novel that blends the surreal with the supernatural, set in a world where reality and dreamlike realms intertwine. The story follows a young man named Cal, who becomes embroiled in the mystery of a hidden, magical world that exists within an intricately woven carpet. As he delves deeper into this "Weave," he uncovers its secrets and the powerful beings that inhabit it, including those who seek to exploit its magic. Blending rich imagery, deep symbolism, and elements of horror and fantasy, Weaveworld explores themes of creation, destruction, and the fragile line between imagination and reality, offering a captivating and complex narrative that invites readers into a world where the boundaries of the possible are continually stretched.

10. Redwall by Brian Jacques (1986)

Redwall by Brian Jacques is a charming and adventurous fantasy novel set in the peaceful, medieval world of Redwall Abbey, home to a community of anthropomorphic animals. The story follows Matthias, a young and eager mouse, who dreams of becoming a warrior like the legendary heroes of the past. When the evil rat warlord Cluny the Scourge and his army threaten the abbey, Matthias embarks on a quest to protect his home and discover the long-lost sword of Martin the Warrior, a symbol of hope and courage. Filled with rich descriptions, vivid characters, and epic battles, Redwall is a tale of bravery, friendship, and the fight between good and evil, appealing to readers of all ages with its timeless themes and immersive world.

These top fantasy books from the 1980s not only defined a generation—they continue to inspire readers and writers around the world. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering them for the first time, these stories offer timeless magic and adventure.