10 Books Like Eragon Perfect for Fantasy Fans

Christopher Paolini’s Eragon and The Inheritance Cycle captivated a generation of fantasy readers with its coming-of-age story, epic world-building, and, of course, dragons.

If you’ve finished the series and are looking for your next fantasy adventure, here are some books that will scratch that Eragon-shaped itch.

Books Like Eragon: Perfect For Every Fantasy Fan

1. Dragonriders of Pern by Anne McCaffrey

Start with: Dragonflight

If you love Eragon for its dragons, then Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern is a must-read. This classic series follows Lessa, a kitchen girl who rises to power when she bonds with a queen dragon. Together, they must defend their world from the deadly, all-consuming Thread.

With a mix of fantasy and science fiction, this series offers an expansive world and a deep exploration of the bond between humans and dragons.

2. Dragon Mage by M.L. Spencer

Aram Raythe is an outcast in his small fishing village, but he harbors a rare magical gift that could change the world. When he’s offered a chance to train as a warrior mage, he begins a journey that will test his limits and introduce him to the legendary dragon riders.

With strong coming-of-age themes, high-stakes action, and a magic system that will intrigue any fantasy fan, Dragon Mage is a perfect next read for Eragon lovers.

3. Songs of Chaos by Michael R. Miller

Start with: Ascendant

Holt Cook is a servant in the Order Hall, destined for a life in the kitchens—until he rescues a dragon egg and bonds with the blind hatchling inside. As war looms and undead hordes rise, Holt must prove himself worthy of his dragon and unlock the magic hidden within.

With an underdog protagonist, an immersive magic system, and plenty of dragon action, this series is tailor-made for fans of The Inheritance Cycle.

4. The Belgariad by David Eddings

Start with: Pawn of Prophecy

A beloved classic of the genre, The Belgariad follows Garion, a simple farm boy who embarks on a journey of magic, prophecy, and destiny. As he uncovers secrets about his heritage and faces a rising dark power, he is thrust into an adventure that will shape the fate of the world.

With its classic hero’s journey, richly developed world, and engaging cast of characters, The Belgariad is a great pick for those who loved Eragon’s mix of adventure and destiny.

5. The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin

Start with: A Wizard of Earthsea

Ged, a young boy with great magical potential, is sent to a wizarding school to hone his abilities. But his thirst for power leads him to unleash a terrible shadow upon the world—one that he must learn to master before it consumes him.

A beautifully written fantasy with deep themes of identity, power, and redemption, The Earthsea Cycle is an essential read for any fantasy fan.

6. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan

Start with: The Eye of the World

For those looking for an expansive epic fantasy with an intricate world and a sweeping cast of characters, The Wheel of Time is the perfect next step. When Rand al’Thor and his friends are forced to flee their village, they embark on a journey filled with dark forces, hidden prophecies, and powerful magic.

If you loved the world-building and grand storytelling of Eragon, this 14-book series will keep you hooked for a long time.

7. The Shannara Series by Terry Brooks

Start with: The Sword of Shannara

Terry Brooks’ Shannara series is another epic fantasy saga filled with adventure, magic, and destiny. The story follows Shea Ohmsford, a young man who discovers he is the last of a legendary bloodline and the only one who can wield the Sword of Shannara to defeat an ancient evil.

A great pick for those who enjoy coming-of-age tales with grand quests and powerful magic.

8. The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams

A richly detailed epic fantasy, The Dragonbone Chair follows Simon, a scullion in the royal castle who gets caught up in a struggle for the throne when dark forces threaten the land. As he embarks on a perilous quest, he discovers his own hidden strength and the true nature of the conflict.

For those who loved Eragon’s mix of adventure, mystery, and political intrigue, this is a great next read.

9. The Temeraire Series by Naomi Novik

Start with: His Majesty’s Dragon

This historical fantasy series reimagines the Napoleonic Wars with dragons as a key part of military strategy. When Captain Will Laurence unexpectedly bonds with a rare dragon, he is thrust into a world of aerial combat and high-stakes warfare.

A fresh take on dragon fantasy, this series combines adventure, camaraderie, and deep world-building that Eragon fans will love.

10. The Riftwar Saga by Raymond E. Feist

Start with: Magician

Pug, an orphaned kitchen boy, is discovered to have a rare magical gift that could shape the fate of two worlds. As he grows into his power, he becomes entangled in an interdimensional war that threatens everything he knows.

Filled with rich storytelling, magic, and epic battles, The Riftwar Saga is an excellent choice for fans of The Inheritance Cycle looking for another immersive fantasy series.

What Makes a Book Like Eragon?

If you’re wondering what makes these books similar to Eragon, here are some of the core elements they share:

Dragons and Dragon Riders: A significant element of Eragon is the bond between rider and dragon, which features heavily in many of the books listed above.
Hero’s Journey: Eragon follows a young protagonist on a classic coming-of-age adventure, a structure shared by many of these recommendations.
Ancient Magic and Prophecy: Many of these books include long-lost magic, mysterious powers, and grand prophecies guiding the main characters.
Epic Battles and Worldbuilding: Large-scale conflicts, war, and rich, immersive worlds are a staple of Eragon and similar books.

Conclusion: More Books Like Eragon Await!

If you loved Eragon and want more books like it, this list should give you plenty to explore. Whether it’s dragons, epic quests, or legendary battles, these books capture the same sense of wonder that made The Inheritance Cycle so beloved. So, pick up one of these recommendations and embark on your next grand adventure!