I've been an avid fantasy reader since middle school. It all started with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. From there I dabbled in the worlds created by Tamora Pierce, journeyed to Mordor with Frodo and Sam, and discovered countless fantastical realms that continue to help get me through day-to-day life. Although I've read hundreds (probably thousands) of books about magic, there are four series that stand out as those I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to fellow readers. So if you loved Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, you should definitely check out these series.


The Paper Magician Series - Comprised of The Paper Magician, The Glass Magician, and The Master Magician, this series follows the adventures of apprentice magician Ceony Twill and her mentor, Emory. From saving her teacher's life to discovering a potentially dangerous magical ability, Ceony is the kind of female protagonist I love. She's strong and intelligent and an absolute force to be reckoned with. The fourth book in the series, The Plastic Magician, takes place in the same world as the first three but changes protagonists - although Ceony and Emory do have a cameo. All four books boast mystery, adventure, and romance.


The Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy- Comprised of Dark Witch, Shadow Spell, and Blood Magick, this series focuses on three cousins living in the modern world who are fulfilling their ancestors' quest to rid the world of a great evil. The first book is told from Iona's point of view, the second from Connor's, and the third from Branna's. Throughout the journey, they each find love and connect with the original three.


The Inheritance Cycle - Comprised of Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, and Inheritance, this series follows the tale of Eragon, a 15-year-old farm boy who discovers a dragon egg, revealing his destiny as a Dragon Rider. Armed only with an ancient sword, a loyal dragon, and advice from an old storyteller, Eragon is swept into an adventure of magic, glory, and power. His choices could save, or destroy, the empire. This series is perfect for LOTR fans.


The All Souls Trilogy - Comprised of A Discovery of Witches, Shadow of Night, and The Book of Life, this series is the story of Diana Bishop and Matthew de Clairmont, a witch and vampire who fall in love and defy the laws of the Congregation - the ruling body of all creatures: witches, vampires, and daemons. Set in modern day and 1591, this story weaves together past and future beautifully. I loved how the author incorporated real-life events into the timeline. I thought the first book was a little slow to get going, and the science jargon was a little off-putting at times for me, but once it got going, wow! This series jumped into my 'favorite books of all time' list with ease.