12 Fantasy Books With Chosen One Trope
Ah, the chosen one—a character destined for greatness, plucked from obscurity, and hurled into an epic journey filled with danger, prophecy, and power. Whether they’re wielding a magical sword, uncovering hidden abilities, or reluctantly leading a rebellion, chosen ones never fail to captivate us. In these fantasy books, fate and free will collide in dazzling tales of heroism and adventure.
1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
📖 Plot: Harry Potter, an orphan living under the stairs, discovers he’s not just a regular boy but a wizard with a destiny to face the dark wizard Voldemort.
💭 Why it’s captivating: The magic of Hogwarts, the friendships, and Harry’s growth from an ordinary boy to the savior of the wizarding world will always remain legendary.
2. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
📖 Plot: Kvothe, a gifted musician and brilliant scholar, recounts his journey from a destitute childhood to becoming one of the most powerful magicians the world has ever seen.
💭 Why it’s captivating: Kvothe’s story is a masterclass in world-building, intrigue, and a protagonist whose brilliance is both his greatest asset and flaw.
3. Eragon by Christopher Paolini
📖 Plot: When Eragon finds a mysterious blue stone, it hatches into a dragon, launching him into a world of ancient magic and a destiny to overthrow a tyrannical king.
💭 Why it’s captivating: This book has everything—dragons, sword fights, and an underdog-turned-hero who makes readers root for him at every step.
4. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
📖 Plot: Celaena Sardothien is a notorious assassin given a chance to win her freedom by competing in a deadly tournament for the king’s favor. Little does she know, her destiny involves far more than survival.
💭 Why it’s captivating: Celaena is fierce, complex, and utterly magnetic. With political intrigue, romance, and jaw-dropping twists, this series will hook you from the first page.
5. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
📖 Plot: Alina Starkov, an orphaned mapmaker, discovers she holds a rare and powerful magic that could be the key to saving her war-torn country.
💭 Why it’s captivating: The Darkling-Alina dynamic, stunning world-building, and the heroine’s journey from insecurity to power make this a spellbinding read.
6. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
📖 Plot: As ancient dragons stir and a fractured world teeters on the brink of war, a chosen queen must rise to defend her kingdom and unite her people.
💭 Why it’s captivating: With intricate political plots, diverse characters, and fierce dragons, this book offers a feminist twist on the chosen one trope.
7. The Wheel of Time: The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
📖 Plot: Rand al’Thor’s quiet village life is shattered when he discovers he might be the reincarnation of the Dragon Reborn, destined to either save or destroy the world.
💭 Why it’s captivating: With an expansive world and a complex prophecy, Rand’s journey is epic in every sense of the word.
8. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
📖 Plot: Laia, a slave, and Elias, a soldier, find themselves on a perilous path that will determine the fate of an empire. Both must rise against impossible odds.
💭 Why it’s captivating: The blend of action, romance, and a gripping fight against tyranny makes this a chosen-one tale with heart and grit.
9. The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
📖 Plot: Paige Mahoney, a dreamwalker living in a dystopian London, is captured and trained by a mysterious group with sinister intentions—but her powers might be the key to their downfall.
💭 Why it’s captivating: Paige’s fierce determination and the mind-bending plot twists make this a thrilling ride.
10. Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
📖 Plot: Percy Jackson learns that he’s the son of Poseidon and must prevent a war among the gods.
💭 Why it’s captivating: Percy’s wit, epic quests, and the modern twist on Greek mythology create an unforgettable story of a reluctant chosen one.
11. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
📖 Plot: Zélie Adebola must bring magic back to the land of Orïsha and overthrow a corrupt monarchy.
💭 Why it’s captivating: The West African-inspired setting, powerful magic, and fierce determination of Zélie make this a must-read chosen-one tale.
12. Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
📖 Plot: Vin, a street urchin, discovers she has rare magical abilities that make her the key to overthrowing a tyrannical ruler.
💭 Why it’s captivating: Sanderson’s intricate magic system, thrilling heists, and Vin’s transformation from underdog to savior are utterly gripping.
Which Chosen One Captured Your Heart?
Chosen one stories remind us that greatness often begins with the unlikeliest of heroes. Did any of these books ignite your imagination, or do you have a favorite that didn’t make the list? Share your top picks and let’s celebrate these unforgettable journeys of destiny! 🚀📚
