The epic fantasy novels AI recommends most
In week 46 of 2026 we asked ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini 12 reader questions about epic fantasy novels, twice each: 72 real answers. The book they named most was Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson, in 21 of 72 answers (29%). Next came The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien (20) and A Song of Ice and Fire / A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin (18).
Each assistant has its own favourite
ChatGPT and Claude search the web before they answer. Gemini answers from what it already knows. That is why they do not always agree.
The Lord of the Rings
J.R.R. Tolkien
Mistborn: The Final Empire
Brandon Sanderson
The Malazan Book of the Fallen
Steven Erikson
How open is this shelf?
No book is named in even a third of answers. There is room for a well-described book to be picked up.
The 12 questions readers ask
Each question was asked twice of each assistant. 48 answers came with a live web search and 24 from memory.
- What are the best epic fantasy novels of all time? I'm after the ones everyone says you have to read.
- I've never really read epic fantasy before but fancy giving it a go. Where should I start?
- What are the best epic fantasy books that have come out in the last year or so? I've read loads of the older stuff and want something new.
- Are there any underrated or lesser-known epic fantasy novels that deserve more attention? I'm fed up of seeing the same big names recommended all the time.
- I need a birthday present for my dad who loves history books and war films. Which epic fantasy novel would he enjoy?
- I've got a long-haul flight coming up and want a big, immersive epic fantasy to lose myself in. Any suggestions?
- Can you recommend some good grimdark epic fantasy with morally grey characters and plenty of political scheming?
- I absolutely loved The Name of the Wind. What other epic fantasy books are similar to it?
- I've read everything by Brandon Sanderson and need something new. Which epic fantasy authors should I try next?
- Our book club wants to try an epic fantasy novel for the first time. Which one would get people talking and not be too daunting?
- What are the best epic fantasy novels written by British authors? I'd love to support some home-grown talent.
- Which epic fantasy series is actually worth the commitment of starting? I want something with a proper ending that doesn't drag on forever.
See another genre
AI Shelf, week 46, asked on 9 November 2026. Every answer is a real reply from ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini to a question a reader would ask. Updated every week. UK panel.