The Best of Fantasy: TOP TEN Authors Who Thrill You With ACTION

[@KindlingEffect]

*INDEX/CONTENTS* Honorable Mentions: 01:29 David Gemmell (Legend) 01:59 Robert Jordan (The Wheel of Time) 02:36 Jim Butcher (Grave Peril, The Dresden Files #3) 03:11 Tad Williams (Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy) 03:44 Evan Winter (The Rage of Dragons) Top 10: 04:22 10. Scott Lynch (Gentleman Bastard Sequence) 05:27 9. Brandon Sanderson (The Wheel of Time, Mistborn Era 1, The Stormlight Archive) 06:55 8. Janny Wurts (To Ride Hell's Chasm, Wars of Light and Shadow series) 07:57 7. Ian C. Esslemont (Stonewielder, Novels of the Malazan Empire #3) 09:14 6. Fonda Lee (The Green Bone saga) 10:24 5. Mark Lawrence (Book of the Ancestor trilogy, The Broken Empire trilogy) 11:20 4. George R. R. Martin (A Song of Ice and Fire series) 12:47 3. Steven Erikson (Malazan Book of the Fallen series) 14:17 2. Joe Abercrombie (First Law World) 15:56 1. John Gwynne (The Faithful and the Fallen series, Bloodsworn saga)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you very much!

[@MetalGildarts]

I love the way Robert Jordan describes fight scenes. He gives you a little bit of details and you paint the fight in. your mind how you see fit. Masterful. Also love Joe and John's fight scenes. So brutal and vivid.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I also do enjoy Jordan’s poetic sword forms! Cheers, Marco!

[@TruePerception]

I like R.A. Salvatore. He often comes up with amazing, over the top stuff and does a good job with realistic attention to detail combat.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Awesome! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@ReadingByTheRainyMountain]

I am still catching up on all your best of videos, but I love that using topics for the lists gives you free reign to repeat authors across lists 😃😃

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m just inventing my own rules here! 😁 Cheers, Varsha!

[@Stillnothereanymore]

I agree with you about Book of the Ancestor of having great action scenes -- Nona's anger and speed mesh so well with the way conflict is written. My favorite combat encounter in all of fiction is probably still the scene in Holy Sister where Nona and two other sisters attempt an ambush in a tent, and need to instantly react to the surprise they find waiting for them there.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I remember that scene and my shock very well too! Well said about Nona, who is simultaneously one of the most kick-ass of characters and one of the most sympathetic of characters, making her an amazing protagonist.

[@someokiedude9549]

I would add Robert E. Howard to the list. The primal intensity of his action sequences really set the standard for how to do an action sequence in fantasy. He will never be surpassed. Marlon James as well, he's really good at creating similarly visceral, intense action sequences in his work...or well at least in Black Leopard, Red Wolf that is. Good work Philip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Great additions, Britton! Many thanks!

[@RiddlesOfSteel]

I can't think of a bigger action hero within the fantasy genre than Conan the Barbarian. Spot on recommendation for Black Leopard, Red Wolf as well. James writes action in a way that absolutely refuses to allow you to overlook the human mess it causes. You will smell the blood, urine, and feces of the dying and hear their crying screams and still somehow exult with Tracker as he reflects on a kill well done 😂

[@David-ql1si]

Great list Philip! When I think of an action sequence that shocked me, the end of Dust of Dreams, Erikson is a master. Also, in Return of the Crimson Guard, Esslemont is really great too. When a lone Seguleh (Rell) fights an Ascendant alone. It read like a Horror story almost. Sanderson has some great stuff too. Thanks again for doing these!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ah, the Seguleh! Yes! Cheers, David!

[@richlewallen8387]

Thank you for the shout out for Tad William's prose and just subscribed. Alas, I should have already done that.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Many thanks, Rich! It’s great to have you around!

[@Talking_Story]

So many great ones. I gotta get to so many of these. Thanks for the list!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

There really is no shortage of great action in fantasy, making this possibly the most difficult list so far. An embarrassment of riches, and I hope you have a great time reading them, John!

[@verosnotebook]

I love seeing how most books keep showing up in these top 10s, albeit in different order. Only confirming how amazing they are. It is also very interesting to see the odd ones. Thanks 😊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Vero! I’m finding it interesting to track that too. All the best!

[@marianneguevara8279]

Firstly, this might be my favorite thumbnail of yours! I love your nonchalant expression as your socks are being knocked off haha Thank you for the recommendations! I really ought to try Gwynne’s Bloodsworn trilogy. I’m really into Norse mythology or at least Norse inspired stories ☺️

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Thank you, Marianne! John Gwynne's Bloodsworn Trilogy is the closest thing in modern fantasy to Icelandic sagas that I have read. It also draws heavily from Norse myths, though in a fictionalized way. I hope you'll enjoy it if you give it a try!

[@Snally38]

Great list Philip! I am loving this series, and your thumbnails always make me laugh. Gwynne and Abercrombie are the first that come to mind when thinking about action, but I also really appreciated how you wrote the action (and its impact on the characters) in the Edan trilogy

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! I’m glad you’re enjoying the video series and the thumbnails. Yes, Gwynne and Abercrombie are my go to authors for compelling action. Thank you also for the kind words about The Edan Trilogy - they mean a lot to me!

[@Hutch.Piper10]

Thank you so much for your thoughts, Phillip. I really enjoy these top 10 lists you are doing. I have never been a fantasy reader before, but you are definitely selling me on the genre. I can’t wait to get started soon! I really enjoy your channel and thank you so much for the time and effort you put into your videos. Very well done indeed.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much for your kind words! I’m glad you’re enjoying these lists, and I hope you’ll find some great reading experiences from them!

[@Christopher_Navo]

Great list, Philip! Gardens of the Moon (first time I read it years ago) was and still is very inspirational to me as a writer. I'm slowly working through Memories of Ice and just taking my time enjoying the experience. Hobb, Gwynne, GRRM all here. Looking forward to some Mark Lawrence reads this year! -Cheers

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Christopher! Best wishes for Memories of Ice, and I really hope you’ll enjoy Lawrence’s books!

[@George__Parasol279]

Knocking *my* socks off as these thumbnails continue 😂 love it. I’d be interested in seeing your take on ten authors with distinct, instantly recognizable voices and prose styles (similar to a dialogue test with characters).

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m glad you enjoy the thumbnails! That’s a great idea for a video. In terms of fantasy, Abercrombie leaps to mind, as does Janny Wurts. I think I’d instantly recognize their prose.

[@BookishChas]

Once again, some great recommendations for this topic Philip. I still need to read John Gwynne. The Green Bone saga is an excellent example.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Chas! I hope you’ll enjoy Gwynne’s books if you try them!

[@MattVickers]

Perfect top 3, and I think all three have a lot in common when it comes to action

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Matt! They are the holy trinity of action!

[@shaytal100]

I do love your lists! I think it's great to highlight different aspects of fantasy literature. It really make me want to read more! When I think of captivating action in fantasy think of Steven Donaldson and the Covenant Chronicles. The action scenes might be sparse, but they always got my adrenaline up. I was much younger when I read them and I was always wondering how words on paper can get me more excited than any action movie.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I'm so glad you're enjoying these lists! I'm enjoying them more than I thought I would, and I'm getting some great recommendations too. I intend to reread Lord Foul's Bane and then read the rest of the Thomas Covenant books someday. Cheers!

[@shaytal100]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasyOh that is great! Would love to hear your thoughts about them! They were the 2nd fantasy books I read after Lord of the Rings. Because of that they have a special place in my heart. But I was a young teenager when I read them. So a good part of me liking them is probably nostalgic. Thanks for your reply! Your channel is a gem!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@shaytal100 Thank you for the kind words!

[@noname3609]

As a huge fan of Druss the Legend I definetly recommend all of his 4 novels always:" Legend,The first chronicles of Druss the Legend,The Legend of DeathWalker and WHITE WOLF which is my favourite Druss novel since it introduces a totally awesome character which I like almost as much as Druss !"

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I look forward to reading the others! Cheers!

[@noname3609]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Definetly agree on your top though.John Gwynne and Joe Abercrombie are the best at action scenes imho :D

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@noname3609 Yes, they both have a gift in the action department!

[@nazimelmardi]

I agree. Good list. Let’s add Altered Carbon. It’s just brutal hand to hand and gun killing from first person writing in a creative way. Commonwealth Saga. Space and ground battles. Forgotten Realms - Drizzt. It’s full with fight scenes. That maybe the only strong part in favor against the epic fantasy series. Red Rising. Cinematic level battles. So some sci-fi elements. And you are right, the Legend is not necessarily the strongest book of Gammel. And I’m not Drust biggest fan of the series. And there is his other shorter series of 4 books, based on northern culture. That’s also pretty good if not better than the Drust series. The Viking feeling of it hits.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much for the excellent additions, Nazim! I was hoping someone would mention R.A. Salvatore here, but I haven't read his books yet.

[@natemercer7538]

Great list Philip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much, Nate!

[@tonycarel1785]

Thanks again Phillip your list is amazing and I agree with you 100%

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting!

[@thedrownedkingdomsaga7847]

An incredible video Philip! This series of top-ten-not-really-a-top-ten continues to be absolutely brilliant! What a fabulous list! I do agree, that Janny Wurts is very underrated as an action writer in fantasy, perhaps overshadowed by her mindblowing worldbuilding. In terms of the overall list, our tastes is VERY similar! Of course subjective, and mainly because I have not read Esslemont (will have to rectify that at some point), and I have read Evan Winter, I would slot Winter, one of your honourable mentions, in Esslemont's spot. I think Winter's fighting series are absolutely frenetic...I'd also switch Sanderson & Tad Williams on my list, but completely can see why you put Sanderson in a top slot. Please keep making these videos, they are excellent. I truly enjoy watching them!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m so glad you’re enjoying this series, PL! I’m having much more fun making these videos than I expected. Cheers!

[@thedrownedkingdomsaga7847]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am so happy your are enjoying making them! Quick note I was remiss in mentioning Bernard Cornwell & Miles/Christian Cameron. They would be on any list of mine for battle-scene writers! Highly recommended!

[@RedFuryBooks]

No wrong answers on anyone's comments or your top 10! My top 3 would be Abercrombie, Martin and Gemmell, although my favorite author for action scenes is Bernard Cornwell, who write historical fiction. Both Gwynne and Martin have listed him as inspirations. Thanks for another fun video!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Many thanks, Josh! This was a fun one to compile!

[@richlewallen8387]

I agree whole heartedly about Bernard Cornwell. Currently reading the Saxon Tales and about to finish book 4. Just love this series.

[@Johanna_reads]

Excellent list, Philip! The Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang and Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell immediately come to mind. I think you would love both! Maybe I’m old school, but I also loved the action in Lord of the Rings and some of the wild duels and battles in The Elric saga! 😁

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Fantastic additions, Johanna! Sword of Kaigen and Warlord Chronicles are both on my TBR, but probably for 2025 as this year is definitely spoken for!

[@vidarfe]

Words can not describe how much I love the cover of Hunger of the Gods. I havn't read the book yet so I may be wrong, but as a Norwegian who learned about Norse mythology in school I have a strong suspicion who that wolf may be.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It's such an amazing cover! You are correct in that the wolf on the cover is very much inspired by Fenrir. That said, Gwynne fictionalizes and puts his own twist on the gods in The Bloodsworn Trilogy, so they're not exactly the Old Norse pantheon. I have often compared Bloodsworn to Icelandic sagas, which I love and have studied as a medievalist (my day job). Cheers!

[@akellerhouse83]

I try to think of authors you haven't already named in these lists, but I keep coming up with sci-fi authors. I think Pierce Brown would be on my list. I thought of a fantasy author this time, Sebastian de Castell with the Greatcoats series. His action scenes are really good. My number one is Steven Erikson, though. I read Malazan a couple years ago, and I still remember some of those battles. I think Jim Butcher is higher on my list than yours. His entire Dresden series is one long action sequence. It's impressive.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks for your additions, Amanda! I'm hoping to get to Greatcoats someday, and I'd like catch up with Dresden by the end of 2025. I won't argue against your number one! 😁

[@DoUnicornsRead]

Wow, look at the excitement when you're talking about these authors! But knowing what type of action sequences you write yourself maybe I shouldn't be surprised that you're a bit of an action junkie, Philip.😁 Love the list!!! Could it be, I like it because of the high overlap with my fighting women list?🤔 Nah, that's probably not the reason.😂 And of course I wholeheartedly agree with the motto on your socks! Have a great weekend, Philip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I was hoping someone would read the socks! 😁Yes, I am essentially a twelve year old trapped in an aging man's body -- you can tell by how much I enjoy action and by my sense of humor!

[@DoUnicornsRead]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Ha, ha! Twelve is a great age, though. In my expierence it's the aging body that causes the problem.😁

[@ThrivingWithKat]

This was a great list Philip! I'm ready to have my socks knocked off! 😂

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Hopefully your toes won’t get cold! 😊

[@BooksWithBenghisKahn]

Great picks at the top with John Gwynne and Joe Abercrombie!!!!!! I might put the same two at the top with Erikson and Sanderson all close behind. I know this is a fantasy list, but Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles feels like a fantasy series in spirit and he'd also easily make my top-2 alongside Gwynne for his battle and fighting scenes in general between Warlord and the many incredible and immersive battle scenes in Sharpe. Another that would be on my own list might be Adrian Tchaikovsky for all the creative variety of heartstopping action scenes in Shadows of the Apt. A recent read would make the list too, which is Conn Iggulden for his Empire of Salt trilogy-I was blown away by the action in those fast-paced gritty novels. And Jim Butcher with Dresden would definitely be in my list-you haven’t yet reached some of his most memorable sequences, I can’t wait for you to experience all those. I’m interested to see what he does with his epic fantasy too. Pierce Brown might also make my list for one sequence in Golden Son that’s one of my favorite action sequences of all time (and while it's called sci-fi, it's really a fantasy series) Such a fun video idea!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Great additions, Ben! Yes, I need to get further in Dresden -- still hoping to do that later this year, and also hoping to discuss the series with you at some point. Also, I'd love to read more Cornwell someday. So many greats, and so much to look forward to!

[@Jim-be8sj]

Thanks for this video. I haven't read most of these authors. One author I can add to the list is Paul Edwin Zimmer. There's an action scene in his "A Gathering of Heroes" novel that I can still picture clearly in my mind, despite having read it only once, about 30 years ago.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you for adding Zimmer to the conversation, Jim!

[@alexiskiri9693]

Thank you. Read 6 of them. Will have to get busy on the rest.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy them!

[@heidi6281]

Abercrombie’s The Heroes/The Little People chapters head hopping is masterful ! I agree with you a 1000% with the Bloodsworn saga and Gwynne must have been influenced by his love for Cornwall’s Warlord Chronicles!! The Witcher has some great punching! In the short story “ A Little Sacrifice”, Geralt is fighting fish soldiers!😜

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Great call adding The Witcher, Heidi! Yes, The Heroes is my favorite of the First Law standalones, and it's partly for that very reason. Cheers!

[@MrRoro_su]

Ooh, I want action 😎💗. Thanks, philip

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Plenty of action from these authors! Cheers, Mr. Rorosuri!

[@MrRoro_su]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 💗

[@tommyboyscalemodeling4988]

I'm so glad you put Esslemont on the list. He catches so much criticism from Erikson diehards and I just don't understand. I love Erikson, but Esslemont is a fantastic writer as well.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I couldn’t agree more with you! Two talented writers have written amazing books in this incredible world, complementing each other’s series.

[@esmayrosalyne]

You are knocking MY socks off with these lists, haha. Couldn't agree more with Fonda Lee, Abercrombie and John Gwynne! Some of my personal additional favourites are John Palladino (rivalling Abercrombie for me), J.C.M. Berne, Ken Liu, and Brian Staveley. And that is high praise for me, as someone who is easily tempted to skim action sequences oops.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Excellent picks, Esmay! I won’t judge anyone for skimming the parts they don’t like as much - or even feeling the temptation to skim - but I just can’t do it because of this nagging feeling that I might miss something important. That’s one reason I read slowly - I’m obsessed with catching everything I can. Perhaps I should relax a little by occasionally skimming . . . But I know I won’t!

[@esmayrosalyne]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I totally feel that, and I admire you for just savouring your stories and appreciating the author's craft to its fullest. I think that is exactly why the authors I mentioned are my favourites in this aspect, because their action scenes don't even begin to tempt me to skim. It's not just action for the sake of action, there is so much more woven into the deeper layers so skimming them will definitely make you miss important stuff. Those are my favourite types of action sequences. Also, you are just about the most relaxed person I know already, don't change! hahah

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@esmayrosalyne Thank you, Esmay - you are very kind!

[@ronaldwatson3862]

I think you nailed this list! I also enjoy the action scenes written by R.A. Salvatore, Chris Wooding and Robert Jackson Bennett.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Ronald! And thank you as well for the additional suggestions!

[@ithrahmunchswallow468]

Fun video 🤓 ❤❤❤ Dresden. ❤❤❤ Gentlemen Bastards. I need more Elantris 😢 Haven't finished Malazan 🥴 💚💚💚 Lee. 🖤🖤🖤 First Law. I ❤ Logan Gwynn is marvelous. I loooove Anthony Ryan's gritty style and Will Wights pure chaos 🤪 Tchaikovsky and Kadrey would make my top list too 🙌🏼

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! 😊

[@DanExploresBooks]

I know i haven't published book yet but here is a sample excerpt of action.... "Greg turned and saw a guy, so he punched the crap out of his face. Then another dude was running at him and was trying to kick the crap out of Greg, so Greg punched the crap out of that guy too. Then a couple flying guys with swords or something came walking in, so Greg was like "go ahead, make my day." Then he kicked the crap out of them."

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That “go ahead, make my day” line has potential! Perhaps you’ll be on a list like this someday, Dan!

[@Dantrag123]

Books, based on RPG settings are always pretty action-packed. R. A. Salvatore's "Dark Elf", Warhammer Fantasy books (Gotrek & Felix, Malus Darkblade) and DragonLance books, for example.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Great additions to the conversation, and good observation about books based on RPG settings!

[@RaydenSun]

Only read Echoes of the Great Song by David Gemmell which had one of the most touching endings I have ever read in a book. Also read The City by his wife Stella, but it was so tough to get into imo. When you do it's got some very good (action) scenes tho.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Sounds fantastic! I look forward to reading more Gemmell someday.

[@BrianBell7]

Excellent list and excellent video! I have a few I would add in but my guess is you may not have read them yet. I've never, ever read anything like the battle scene in The Lonesome Crown, published by Simon & Schuster's Saga Press. Also, you write a mean battle scene yourself! (I wish you would've given the title to Dr. Philip Chase, author of The Edan Trilogy. That would've made my year.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! I’m glad my battle scenes have left an impression on you, Brian! Cheers!

[@thefantasythinker]

I would definitely have Robert E. Howard up there for some truly visceral action scenes. Another choice for me would be Robert Adams, author of the Horseclans novels. I'm glad you included Esslemont, some of those action sequences are truly riveting, especially in the later Novels of the Malazan Empire. As an honorable mention, our friend Vaughn Roycroft has some pretty great battle sequences as well. I need to get to Gwynn one of these days. Cheers!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I totally agree in regard to Vaughn Roycroft, Jarrod. Good call!

[@callinicobo5991]

Great list. well, I think you write amazing action. I will add Harry Turtledove for the "Videssoss Series" and Elizabeth Moon for the "Paksenarrion Series"

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! You’re very kind, and I appreciate your additions to the conversation!

[@alexdimopoulos769]

You could make a point system, where from each category a series or standalone get the amount of points corresponding to their placement in that particular category (inversed). At the end you can announce the winner with the most total points. (Maybe put some percentage weight in more "important" categories or pick only from entries that made it into most of the categories). P.S Since the point of this series is to not be definitive with a single ranking (because it does not do books justice that way), maybe you could make an "all-rounder" list.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Excellent idea, and I think a lot of people would enjoy that sort of thing. Cheers, Alex!

[@chibipoe]

Great list, Philip! But... that thumbnail...are you trying to get in on the feet pic market now? :P ;) It's an untapped corner of booktube!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha ha! Perhaps I could be a pioneer! Cheers, Chibipoe!

[@ricobonifacio1095]

I can not make a top ten because I know nothing about these books. I am looking into reading fantasy books and these videos give me ideas for reading.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Fantastic! Thank you for letting me know the video is helpful. Many of the comments will have great suggestions too. I hope you’ll find some great reads!

[@Bultarski]

Big thing is don’t let people play gatekeeper. Just start exploring. Look at these videos here. He does a great job. And I just started Edan as well. To me this genre is about exploration. Let your mood guide you a bit. If you want fight scenes and action I agree that John Gwynne may be my favorite so far. Shadow of the gods is great.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@Bultarski This is wisdom! And thank you for giving The Edan Trilogy a shot!

[@ZOMGfantasy]

Great list Phillip! She definitely does not belong on this list...But I will say, I think Robin Hobb's action writing is the stuff that has shaken me the most. It just comes out of nowhere and it's so so visceral. Think Red Snow in Fool's Quest 😵

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I agree that, when action happens in The Realm of the Elderlings, it's very impactful. A big part of that is the attachment to the characters, I think, and how well Hobb explores the consequences of violence. The scenes themselves tend to be short as well as few and far between, but they leave their mark.

[@ZOMGfantasy]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Exactly, yes. The events of book two linger on and affect our characters 60 years later in book 16 I might be in the minority here, but I really do think action is most effective when used sparingly

[@Why_do_I_do_this.]

I love how Joe Abercrombie has a high place on all of those lists 😮🤩 ... Such an Amazing author. I mean ... You have to be realistic about these things 😆

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

You can never have too many top ten lists with Abercrombie on them. 😁

[@caewing85]

I would have The Bound and the Broken series by Ryan Cahill on my list. I agree with where you put Brandon Sanderson. He has a great Sanderlanch, but seriously, it takes work to get there. I really need to read Gwynne.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m starting The Bound and the Broken in May! Looking forward to it!

[@thirdspacemaker9141]

Would anyone recommend reading the entire Malazan bibliography in publication order, regardless of author?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Definitely! I didn’t read all the books in publication order, but that’s the most commonly recommended approach.

[@jimave]

Great list. There’s a few authors on your list that I just can’t get into. Mark Lawrence and John Gwynne. I’ve tried and tried to like them but they just don’t do it for me. Erickson writing style is also very hard for me to follow. I had to watch videos after finishing a book to figure out what I I read. He does have epic war stories! You start the series in the middle of one.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

You definitely do start in medias res in Gardens of the Moon! Sorry to hear those authors have not worked for you, Jim. Fortunately, fantasy is full of great alternatives and so many different styles.

[@sarahrichards9250]

Have you read anything by Seanan McGuire? Fun urban fantasy

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Not yet, but thank you for the suggestion!

[@bigaldoesbooktube1097]

Your number one pick is well justified. If Gwynne does anything better than anyone else, it’s epic action.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

And somehow Gwynne always gets my heart in it. It’s not just spectacle - I have major investment in the outcome and the fate of the characters I care about. Cheers, Al!

[@bigaldoesbooktube1097]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy so true, even the side characters are so easy to feel for.

[@gryftkin]

Dangit Philip. I told you to save that thumbnail for your Only Feet's page :D

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

There’s more where that came from! 😁

[@davidcarroll9698]

Love the dresden files . Fantastic books

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I look forward to reading more of them!

[@DanielsBookNook]

Tied for first place for action for me are John Gwynne and RA Salvatore

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m slightly embarrassed to admit I haven’t read anything by Salvatore yet. Someday I’ll fix that!

[@mysticmouse7261]

Adrian Tchaikovsky's Shadows of the Apt fantasy series has everything you said you look for in a novel.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hear good things! My long term TBR grows ever longer . . . Cheers!

[@chrisanderson2056]

If you like fantasy I highly recommend reading Lord of the Mysteries by Cuttlefish. Literally the best novel I have read and also has one of if not the best power systems you will find in fiction. And of course as the name suggests it involves great mysteries and eldrich horrors.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you for the recommendation, Chris!

[@jasonsouth1652]

Really good list especially with grrm and Sanderson. Time for recommendations and cheats as well but they’re too good to leave out. 1) kinoko Nasu for the action in the nasuverse, I know you mentioned when talking about Sanderson you didn’t like the over depth of his magic, I am usually similar but there are exceptions Nasu (and some others, maybe on the list) is one. Because of the breadth and relative inaccessibility in any tangible order for english speaking fans to his stories for a while except through adaptations severely ranging in quality a lot of the depth of nasus magic was almost esoteric for a very long time leading lots to read wikis like textbooks. And the funny thing is most of nasus magic isn’t magic. But now we have a good order for things as the series is sort of getting a reboot with English speakers in mind given the massive popularity of its sub franchise.(sadly for all the peeps who enjoy the other stories) but the reading order as I would say is thus. Witch On The Holy Night (reboot or original is fine)…two witches living on a hill in the 1980s and the boy who stumbles upon them Tsukihime ( original version as the reboot is split in two of which the second is not yet released) vampires…death…the moon Notes (only one version exists) an apocalyptic vision of the end of the world And the one everyone knows Fate/Stay Night… seven mages and seven servants (familiars from throughout history and legend) do battle over the holy grail. 2) it’s a recommendation continuing from a previous comment NISIOISIN when he writes action it’s usually at the climax and there’s always this feeling of catharsis, comedy, and an odd but appropriate sense of harmatia but then sometimes he removes the comedy and it hurts so damn much. 3) now for my cheats why do i say cheats because probably what you were looking for was prose authors in written word action. It’s time for manga action. Also it’s going to be a lot shorter in descriptions because you look up pictures but hey that’s a thousand words. Kentaro Miura - Berserk (rip to miura) Takehiko inoue - vagabond Eiichiro Oda - one piece Yoshihiro togashi - hunter x hunter Finally to mention one whilst known for the action in said series I feel like the series gets reduced to only the action. But it is so so much more. A series I swear the author goes on breaks from just to get away from. Whilst amazing and action packed and ridiculous in its action to a cartoony degree almost at points punctuated by profanity. Yet oddly the series after one other that left me hollowed out by it. Rei Hiroe- Black Lagoon. A Japanese businessman becomes a pirate in the South China Sea. The other series that hollowed me also has good action but wouldn’t be one I can recommend for the action section (inio asano- good night punpun)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you for all the recommendations! I loved reading Vagabond and discussing it with Merphy. It’s my favorite manga so far, but let’s see what happens now that I’ve started One Piece. All the best!

[@jasonsouth1652]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I can’t wait till you reach a certain arc in one piece.

[@Zivilin]

Mentioning action in manga but leaving out Claymore? *Rings the bell of shame* (just teasing of course but still! 😛) Another one is Banana Fish and Hellsing.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@Zivilin I love the additions - cheers!

[@Zivilin]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy cheers. Both claymore and banana fish could technically fit on the other author list of stories that make you cry too. And i don't say that lightly. I rarely get so emotionally invested a story makes me teary eyed.

[@harshgarg1448]

Action scenes mostly works for me when you see actions of character's active decision. E.g. the build up to "Honor is dead" and the falling action after that.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That’s quite a scene!

[@markgeisler7709]

Just for The Heroes, I would put Abercrombie at #1, but I really enjoy Gwynne’s books a lot.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I love The Heroes - my favorite of the standalones!

[@djsuth7727]

Hard to disagree with your top 2 picks, Philip. But I'm going to stand my ground when it comes to including Robert Jordan and Tad Williams as being masterful at writing action scenes !

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It is ground well worth standing, DJ! I think they’re both terrific - there’s a certain poetry to Jordan’s sword forms that I like. Cheers!

[@Montie-Adkins]

Tad Williams: Bobby Dollar series. 1st book good, 2nd book I could not put down as an angle fallen in love with a demon woman must rescue her from Hell. He gave up his powers and went in (down) and I had to know what would happen and so read it in one day.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I really need to return to Tad Williams, starting with a reread of Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn. Cheers!

[@aysseralwan]

I expected Bernard Cornwell especially cuz he's I think John Gwynne's inspiration or one of them

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I think of Cornwell as historical fiction, but I’m glad you brought him up. I’ve read only one of his Saxon books, but I hope to read his Arthurian trilogy next year. Cheers!

[@darKuchiki]

​@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm currently reading the Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell and enjoying it a lot, and it's a completely different take on Arthur, it's got those grimdark vibes as opposed to Le Morte d'Arthur and The Once and Future King that I read last year.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@darKuchiki I look forward to reading it - thank you!

[@bigaldoesbooktube1097]

This is the one name I thought was definitely missing. Possible top 5 personally. Not really a fantasy writer but good for fans of definitely.

[@Paul_van_Doleweerd]

These thumbnails are starting to become very Gilliamesque. The writers that sneak up on you and pants you is going to be really interesting 😂

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ooooo! I hadn’t thought of that one . . . Thanks for the idea, Paul!

[@fcsolis]

The most thrilling, action-packed books I've experienced are the ones in the Borne series by Robert Ludlum- Borne Identity, Borne Supremacy, and Borne Ultimatum. Better have an oxygen mask nearby. Thank you.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Cool! I’ve never read the books, but having seen a couple of the films based on them, I have an inkling that they must be adrenaline inducing!

[@scottferris2686]

I am a character reader, so could usually not care less about the action, but if I want to read action, nobody does a battle or fight scene better than RA Salvatore

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I haven’t read any Salvatore yet, but I was expecting his name to come up here in the comments. Someday I must meet Drizzt!

[@aysseralwan]

4:00 damn that's a one piece reference. (Don't worry, Phil. You aren't meant to understand this joke yet)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I look forward to getting the joke eventually! I’ve always been a little slow anyway . . . 😁

[@harshgarg1448]

Personally action scenes are the worst part of an book for me, most of the time these scenes means nothing to narrative, but most of the times it is the dialogue in between action or after a tions enes that grab me by the throat, I still have chills remembering ending of book 1 of stormlight ar give and in book 2 of stormlight archive when kaladin says "Honor is dead", on when after the fight in Wandering inn Pisces after a series long arc of repeated discrimination ask why should I not retaliate as a monster when they judge me so because of what I am , and she simply replies " Because you are better than them".

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Yes, all action without character development is boring because the reader is not invested in the characters. Great point!

[@nicolassouza1327]

Can anyone explain to me why Bernard Cornwell is never mentioned by fantasy booktubers? Come on, he is the master of combats scenes

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Perhaps because he writes historical fiction. But I agree that he writes awesome combat!

[@Drengr1901]

For the algorithm: Yes, historical fiction.

[@ajaxplunkett5115]

Perhaps I am a few years older than you and must have a deeper historical appreciation of fantasy LIT ( although I thought you had a degree in some such ) . and a different take on fantasy action / thrills/ fights etc but to NOT include Edgar Rice Burroughs , Robert E. Howard!!!, or even "Genre fantasy " series writers like R. A . Salvatore ( who is mostly known for his fight/action scenes ) or even Roger Zelazny ( Amber series ) or even Karl Edward Wagner, Michael Moorcock etc... 90% of your picks are all from the 1990's and up? Seriously , you must realize Burroughs , Howard, Salvatore and Wagner are considered some of the best in this Niche historically right?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I love your funny emojis! My PhD is in medieval literature, not fantasy, but I’ve read some of the older authors you allude to. I just don’t think their descriptions of action have held up very well. I haven’t read anything by Zelazny other than Lord of Light, so I couldn’t include him (yet), and I’ve never read anything by Salvatore. I think it’s great that you love older fantasy! I have an affection for what I’ve read of it, but I’m being honest in my opinions offered here. They are just mine, and I welcome your suggestions.

[@nathanaelwaters2509]

I think scott lynch is extremely under apreatiated

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

He’s a great author, for sure!

[@Excel64100]

Giving away feet pics for free in 2024!? Do better Philip 😂

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! No one in their right mind would pay to see my smelly old feet.

[@amunee6459]

I can't stand that Gwynne completely ignored bows (or throwing spears for that matter) in TFATF. They obviously appear but the idea of bows being a cowardly weapon to the point where people would rather die than seek this advantage, especially the villains, is the stupidest thing I've read. Also his idea of shield wall made any battle absolutely idiotic, people would just run into the shieldwall and die even if they didn't even need to attack. No matter how exciting the sword play in his books is, I will never understand the appreciation for his battles.

[@ajaxplunkett5115]

Well, if you ever do a video called " The Most influential Fantasy Writers of all Time " don't. Switch the title to "The Most Influential Fantasy Writers of the last 30 years ". Your knowledge of 21st century fantasy is impressive and crushes my own in the last 25 years... and as for the 18th to 20th century ... not so much...

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s not a competition, Ajax. We’re here to celebrate books we love. You could spread your knowledge of older fantasy with friendly recommendations, or you could keep leaving grumpy comments when people don’t align with your favorite books.