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There’s just something about dragons, isn’t there? Whether they’re majestic creatures guarding ancient secrets, terrifying beasts torching kingdoms, or loyal companions bonded to fierce warriors, dragons instantly raise the stakes. If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the skies on the back of a fire-breathing beast or forming a soul-deep bond with a scaly companion, you’re in the right place.
This list is packed with the best dragon books out there—epic fantasy adventures, swoony romantasy with bonded riders, cozy tales with bookish dragon companions, and everything in between. Whether you’re hunting for dragon fantasy books with romance, dark political plots, or coming-of-age journeys with a side of flame and fury, I’ve got you covered.
From viral BookTok sensations like Fourth Wing to underrated gems you might’ve missed, here are the most unputdownable dragon stories to fuel your next reading binge.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
If you love your fantasy with dragons, danger, and a heaping side of slow-burn romance, Fourth Wing is a must-read. Set in a brutal war college where cadets train to bond with dragons—or die trying—this one follows Violet, a physically fragile but sharp-tongued heroine thrown into the deadliest quadrant. Expect enemies-to-lovers tension, spicy rider pairings, and nonstop plot twists that will have you flipping pages like your life depends on it. If Hunger Games and How to Train Your Dragon had a morally gray baby, this would be it.
Eragon by Christopher Paolini
An absolute classic in the world of dragon fantasy books, Eragon kicks off a sweeping YA adventure about an ordinary farm boy who stumbles upon a mysterious dragon egg—and changes the fate of an entire kingdom. With an ancient prophecy, dragon riders, and a found-family vibe, this is a nostalgic pick for readers who crave rich worldbuilding, classic good vs. evil battles, and the kind of dragon-human bond that feels legendary.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
If you’re in the mood for an epic feminist fantasy with dragons on both sides of the battlefield, The Priory of the Orange Tree delivers in spades. It’s a sprawling standalone (yes, really!) with multiple POVs, queernorm worldbuilding, a badass mage-knight heroine, ancient evil stirring beneath the surface, and of course, dragons. Some breathe fire, others defend peace—and all of them are unforgettable.
His Majesty’s Dragon by Naomi Novik
Ever wondered what the Napoleonic Wars would look like with an aerial dragon corps? That’s the genius premise behind His Majesty’s Dragon. When British naval captain Will Laurence unexpectedly bonds with a rare dragon hatchling named Temeraire, the two are thrust into an elite world of airborne combat and political intrigue. Their relationship is pure gold—equal parts heartwarming and hilarious—and the alt-history worldbuilding is nothing short of brilliant.
Fire & Blood by George R.R. Martin
For fans of House of the Dragon, Fire & Blood is the ultimate deep-dive into Targaryen history—complete with dragon battles, betrayals, and backstabbing royalty. It reads like a historical chronicle of Westeros’s most dragon-soaked dynasty, full of dramatic turns and brutal power plays. Not a traditional novel, but essential for lore lovers craving dragons on every page.
The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter
A brutal, fast-paced epic inspired by African mythology, The Rage of Dragons is for fantasy readers who crave relentless action and world-altering stakes. Tau is on a personal quest for vengeance in a kingdom where dragons are weapons of war—and the caste system is deadly. This is one of the best dragon fantasy books for fans of underdog stories and morally complex warfare.
Darkstalker by Tui T. Sutherland
A prequel to the Wings of Fire series, Darkstalker digs into the origins of one of Pyrrhia’s most powerful and complex dragons. Told in multiple POVs, it’s a gripping tale of ambition, love, and the slow descent into darkness. If you’re looking for dragon books with emotional depth and sweeping worldbuilding—especially for middle grade or YA readers—this one’s a hit.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
No list of the best dragon books is complete without The Hobbit. Smaug is the gold-hoarding, fire-breathing dragon who launched a thousand fantasy obsessions. Bilbo’s unexpected journey to face him is a timeless tale of courage, wit, and adventure. Classic, cozy, and endlessly re-readable.
The Shadow of the Gods by John Gwynne
Set in a Norse-inspired world where the bones of dead gods (including dragons) still shape the land, The Shadow of the Gods is brutal, bloody, and deeply atmospheric. The dragon-like beings known as “Vaesen” are fearsome, ancient, and tied to a violent past. If you like dark epic fantasy books with dragons, vengeance, and grim mythology, this one’s a standout.
Ascendent by Michael R. Miller
A perfect pick if you’re looking for classic high fantasy with dragons and a training academy. Holt, a stable boy turned dragonrider, must learn to survive cutthroat trials, deadly rivals, and the weight of destiny. With underdog grit, dragon battles, and a strong coming-of-age arc, this one’s great for fans of Eragon and Fourth Wing.
Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey
A gentle, music-filled coming-of-age story set in the world of Pern, Dragonsong is a quieter companion to Dragonflight. Menolly, a girl forbidden to pursue her passion for music, flees her hold and discovers a nest of fire lizards—miniature dragons that help her find her place. It’s one of the most heartwarming dragon books you’ll read.
Dragon Mage by ML Spencer
If you love underdog heroes, intense training arcs, and dragonrider epics, Dragon Mage delivers big time. Aram, a neurodivergent boy with a talent for magic, rises from obscurity to become a force to be reckoned with. The bond between rider and dragon is soul-deep, and the worldbuilding feels grand and immersive. One of the best indie dragon books out there.
Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison
Part dragon romance, part urban fantasy thrill ride, Dragon Bound follows Pia, a half-human thief who steals from an ancient dragon shapeshifter—and ends up his reluctant ally (and eventual lover). Expect steamy tension, power dynamics, and high-stakes magical chaos. One of the best dragon romance books for fans of paranormal vibes and dominant leads.
A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
While dragons don’t appear until late in the first book, their presence looms large—and when Daenerys’s eggs finally hatch, it’s a game-changer for the entire series. These aren’t just dragons; they’re a symbol of power, magic, and rebirth. If you’re looking for epic fantasy books with dragons that reshape the world, this is essential reading.
Fireborne by Rosaria Munda
Set in the aftermath of a dragon-fueled revolution, Fireborne blends political tension, complex friendships, and elite dragonriding tournaments. Annie and Lee, childhood survivors of opposite sides of a class war, now compete for power in a new regime—while hiding secrets that could shatter everything. If you liked Fourth Wing but wanted more politics and moral ambiguity, this one’s for you.
Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede
This cozy, clever classic flips fairytale tropes on their head. Cimorene, a princess who’d rather learn Latin and sword-fighting than get married off, runs away and volunteers to serve a dragon. What follows is a delightfully snarky romp filled with talking cats, meddling wizards, and subverted expectations. If you like your dragon books charming, feminist, and just plain fun, this one’s for you.
Guards! Guards! by Terry Pratchett
Want a satirical spin on your dragon fantasy? Guards! Guards! introduces a rogue secret society, a clueless city watch, and an out-of-control dragon summoned to claim the throne. It’s classic Pratchett—sharp, hilarious, and full of heart. Even if dragons aren’t center stage, they’re an essential part of this absurdly brilliant fantasy romp.
Seraphina by Rachel Hartman
Set in a kingdom where dragons can take human form but are still feared and distrusted, Seraphina is a beautifully written YA fantasy about identity, prejudice, and music. The worldbuilding is rich, the politics are layered, and the dragons? Intellectually brilliant and emotionally complex. Easily one of the most unique dragon books for teens.
Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George
Dragon Slippers is one of those cozy dragon books that’s perfect for younger readers—or anyone in the mood for something sweet and subversive. Creel, a clever heroine with a knack for embroidery, befriends a dragon and ends up in the middle of a kingdom’s war. It’s whimsical, funny, and quietly empowering. If you want the best dragon fantasy books for tweens or a lighter read, this is a gem.
The Awakening by Nora Roberts
This one blends portal fantasy with slow-burn romance and Celtic myth, with dragons playing a major role in the magical realm of Talamh. When Breen discovers she’s more than just an ordinary woman from Philadelphia, she’s pulled into a world of prophecy, ancient powers, and dragonkind. If you love romantic dragon books with lush, transportive settings, this one’s a solid pick.
Nice Dragons Finish Last by Rachel Aaron
If you’re tired of grimdark dragon books and want something more fun and fast-paced, Nice Dragons Finish Last is a delight. Julius, the world’s most polite dragon, is kicked out of his family’s lair and told to prove himself—or else. It’s urban fantasy meets snarky dragon politics, with a sweet slow-burn romance and lots of action. Great for fans of lighter dragon fantasy novels with humor and heart.
Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey
This one’s for the fantasy purists. Dragonflight is the classic that helped redefine the genre, blending sci-fi and fantasy in a world where telepathic dragons bond with their riders to protect against deadly spores raining from the sky. Lessa, a kitchen drudge with a hidden legacy, bonds with the queen dragon and changes the future of Pern. It’s got old-school charm, psychic connections, and that deep human-dragon bond so many readers love.
A Natural History of Dragons by Marie Brennan
Written as a fictional memoir, this series opener follows the fiercely curious Lady Trent as she recounts her early adventures studying dragons in a Victorian-inspired world. Think Jane Austen meets Indiana Jones, with a pinch of natural science and a touch of dry humor. If you’re more into studying dragons than riding them into war, this charming and clever story might be your perfect match.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling
You can’t talk about fantasy books with dragons and not mention Goblet of Fire. The Triwizard Tournament brings dragons front and center, with one fiery Hungarian Horntail and a heart-pounding challenge that still holds up years later. While dragons don’t dominate the series, this installment offers one of the most memorable dragon scenes in modern YA fantasy.
FAQ Dragon Books
What are the best dragon books of all time?
Some of the most beloved dragon books of all time include The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, Eragon by Christopher Paolini, Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey, and The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon. These fantasy novels helped shape the genre and remain iconic reads for dragon lovers.
Are there any dragon books with romance?
Yes! If you’re craving romantic fantasy with dragons, check out Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison, or The Awakening by Nora Roberts. These books blend swoony romance with fire-breathing action and strong emotional stakes.
What are some good YA dragon books for teens?
For teen readers, Seraphina by Rachel Hartman, Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George, and Talon by Julie Kagawa offer compelling coming-of-age stories with dragons, magic, and adventure. They’re perfect for fans of Eragon looking for more dragon fantasy with heart.
Are there any cozy or lighthearted dragon books?
Definitely! If you’re in the mood for something whimsical or charming, try Nice Dragons Finish Last by Rachel Aaron, Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede, or Guards! Guards! by Terry Pratchett. These books are great for readers who love dragons but want a break from heavy epic fantasy.