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9 underrated fantasy book series that deserve more hype

By Eli on May 22, 2025June 10, 2025

We all love the big titles that rotate around bookstagram… but what about the ‘hidden’ gems? 💎📚

Here are 9 fantasy series that deserves more hype. Some of them came out before bookstagram was even a thing, and others just never got the hype they deserve.


Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo

A fast-paced fantasy duology. At its heart is a dangerous heist led by a gang of outcasts with questionable morals. These characters form a found family you can’t help but root for, even as they lie, steal, and fight their way through impossible odds. With clever twists, deep emotional stakes, and razor-edge tension, Six of Crows is the kind of story that steals your heart like its crew steals everything else

First book is called “Six of Crows”.


Red Winter triology by Annette Marie

A breathtaking blend of Japanese mythology and epic fantasy, Red Winter draws you into a world where spirits walk among mortals and ancient prophecies threaten to unravel fate itself. The story follows a girl caught between two worlds, mortal and divine, who must navigate the delicate balance of duty, identity, and a forbidden romance that defies the gods. This trilogy is both a haunting love story and an unforgettable journey through a world where every choice has a price.

First book is called “Red Winter”


The Raven Rings by Siri Pettersen

A gripping Norse-inspired fantasy that weaves ancient magic, political intrigue, and dark secrets into a world unlike any other. With unique worldbuilding, morally complex characters, and layers of myth and mystery, The Raven Rings is a powerful tale of identity, destiny, and the cost of uncovering the truth. A must-read for fans of mythic fantasy with depth and edge.

First book is called “Odins child” (Odins barn in norwegian)


Creepy Hollow series by Rachel Morgan

A fun, fast-paced portal fantasy full of fae magic, sassy banter, and just the right touch of danger. It follows a kickass faerie guardian-in-training who gets pulled into way more trouble than she bargained for. With a good mix of humor, heart, and light adventure vibes, this series is perfect if you’re looking for something magical but not too heavy.

First book is called “The Faerie Guardian”


Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Snarky, action-packed, and full of heart—Vampire Academy brings everything you loved about 2000s YA with a punch of emotional depth. It follows a fiercely loyal best-friend duo, forbidden love, and a boarding school full of secrets, danger, and drama. The banter is sharp, the fight scenes are intense, and the romance? One of my all-time favorites. If you missed this series back in the day, now’s the perfect time to dive in (or fall in love all over again).

First book is called “Vampire Academy”


Bloodlines series by Richelle Mead

More magic, more romance, and all the drama you loved from the world of Vampire Academy. Bloodlines dives deeper into the supernatural world with forbidden love, secret societies, witchy magic, and a dash of cult weirdness. It follows new characters (and some old favorites!) as they unravel mysteries and try to keep their feelings under control. It’s fun, intense, and kind of addictive.

First book is called “Bloodlines”


The inheritance cycle by Christopher Paolini

A dragon rider story you’ve probably heard of—but maybe never actually read (and no, the movie doesn’t count – especially when it is such a bad movie 💀). This is classic high fantasy: a young farm boy, a mysterious dragon egg, and a journey that turns into something much bigger than he ever imagined. With rich worldbuilding, magic, ancient secrets, and a bond between rider and dragon that hits you right in the feels, this series is perfect for fans of epic adventures.

First book is called “Eragon”.


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Have you read any of these? Or do you have a favorite fantasy series that more people should know about? Drop it below! 👇☺️

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Blend by Eli

I'm a full-time coding nerd and part-time book dragon. 🐉
By day I work as a front-end developer, and by night you’ll likely find me curled up with a book, or creating bookish illustrations.

I love reading book reviews and seeing how stories hit differently for different people. So I’m adding my voice to the mix, and hopefully one of my posts will be the one that makes sense of a story for you - or helps you find your next favorite read.📚

This blog is a blend of book reviews, reading suggestions, and artsy creations.

You can learn more about me here.

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