Are you overwhelmed by the sheer number of fantasy trilogies out there and wondering which ones truly deserve a spot on your shelf? You’re not alone. In fact, the best fantasy books are the ones that don’t just transport you to another world, but leave you breathless, emotional, and secretly wishing you could live there forever.
If you’re a YA fantasy lover, especially one who scrolls endlessly through Pinterest boards, BookTok trends, and Instagram fanart, then this post is your treasure map. I’ve gathered some of the most addictive fiction fantasy books that will fuel your imagination, satisfy your craving for adventure, and give you a new series (or three) to obsess over. And yes, one of them is a hidden gem you may not have discovered yet: Coded Life by Fanni Donath.
Why YA Readers Crave Fantasy Trilogies
There’s something magical about diving into books fantasy series instead of standalones. A trilogy (or duology, if you’re in the mood for a quick binge) lets you build a relationship with the characters, immerse yourself in the politics of an invented world, and get pulled into adventures that unfold over years.
Most importantly? These books become part of your life. You carry them in your head when you’re at school, work, or even lying awake at night. And for YA fantasy fans, especially those who love dystopian drama and slow-burn romance, the fantasy reading list never really ends.
The Best Fantasy Books for Fans of YA and Dystopian Worlds
Below is a curated mix of adventure books to read, BookTok book series, and emotional sagas that deliver the epic feels you’re looking for. Whether you’re craving survival stakes, forbidden love, or jaw-dropping fanart aesthetics, this list has you covered.
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Let’s start with the obvious powerhouse. No YA fantasy or dystopian list is complete without Katniss Everdeen. The Hunger Games is the blueprint for dystopian trilogies, blending survival, political rebellion, and unexpected romance. If you’re new to YA fantasy, this is a must.
Why you’ll love it: Fast-paced, emotional, and packed with the kind of drama that makes BookTok thrive.
2. Divergent by Veronica Roth
Faction-based societies, forbidden love, and a heroine discovering her strength, Divergent has become a classic in the world of fiction fantasy books. It’s perfect for readers who want both thrilling battles and romantic subplots.
Why you’ll love it: It asks the timeless YA question: what makes you unique when the world wants you to conform?
3. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
The Grishaverse took Pinterest and BookTok by storm, and for good reason. This is one of those BookTok book series where the fanart practically becomes a fandom on its own. Dark, magical, and addictive, it’s everything YA fantasy readers crave.
Why you’ll love it: Powerful worldbuilding, morally gray characters, and that enemies-to-lovers tension you can’t resist.
4. Coded Life by Fanni Donath
Now let’s talk about a hidden gem you might not know yet, but you should.
In Coded Life – Remember Your Words (Book One), everyone dies at 50. Creativity is outlawed. And Tiffany, the heroine, discovers a truth that could unravel the very system controlling their sterile, color-coded world. At its core, this trilogy-in-the-making blends dystopian suspense with a slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance that will hit you right in the heart.
Why you’ll love it:
- If you loved The Hunger Games for its rebellion and survival themes…
- If you loved Divergent for its question of identity…
- And if you loved Shadow and Bone for its romance and fanart-worthy aesthetic…
Then Coded Life is your next dystopian obsession.
(Psst: the second book is currently a WIP, but don’t let that stop you. Some of the best fandoms started while a series was still unfolding. Early readers are the ones who get to say, “I was here first.”)
5. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
A duology, not a trilogy, but it deserves a spot on your duology book recs list. Six misfits, impossible heists, and witty banter that will keep you laughing even as you cry. This one has inspired some of the best fantasy books fanart across Pinterest and Tumblr.
Why you’ll love it: Found family, morally gray antiheroes, and the kind of plot twists that leave you gasping.
6. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
For readers who want an epic saga with more books to binge, this series delivers on every level: assassins, lost magic, fierce friendships, and romances that evolve with each installment.
Why you’ll love it: If your fantasy recommendations list isn’t complete without sprawling worlds and fiery heroines, this is your perfect match.
7. Legend by Marie Lu
Dystopian lovers, meet your next fast-paced read. This trilogy blends survival politics with a star-crossed romance that BookTok still gushes about.
Why you’ll love it: High stakes, short chapters (you’ll fly through it), and just the right balance of action and heartache.
Why You Shouldn’t Only Wait for Completed Series
Some readers say they only start a fantasy series once it’s finished, so they can binge the whole thing without waiting. But here’s the thing:
- Reading ongoing series connects you with a community of fans.
- You get to join in on discussions, theories, and aesthetic fanart while the hype is fresh.
- And honestly? The anticipation between books can make the story stick with you longer.
That’s exactly why diving into Coded Life now is worth it. You’ll get to grow with Tiffany and Adrian, theorize with other early readers, and be part of a fandom from the very beginning.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
When it comes to building your ultimate fantasy reading list, the goal isn’t to read all the fantasy trilogies out there (though, no shame if you try). The goal is to find the stories that resonate with your heart the ones that make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with characters who feel like friends.
Whether it’s the iconic Katniss, the rebellious Tris, the magical Grisha, or the unforgettable Tiffany from Coded Life, these are the adventures that remind us why the best fantasy books aren’t just stories they’re experiences.
Take the Next Step
👉 Start your journey into Coded Life today: Get it on Amazon
👉 Subscribe for free chapters & bonus content: fannidonath.com
👉 Follow along for behind-the-scenes, fanart, and more:
Because at the end of the day, your next YA dystopian obsession is only a page away.