Fantasy books transport us to wondrous worlds, and the right music can make those journeys even more immersive. Whether you're reading about epic battles, mystical landscapes, or heart-wrenching moments of sacrifice, a well-chosen soundtrack can amplify the experience. Here are some of the best fantasy book soundtracks—from official scores to albums that capture the essence of magical storytelling.
The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit (Howard Shore)
Few fantasy soundtracks are as legendary as Howard Shore's compositions for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. The sweeping orchestral scores perfectly encapsulate the grandeur of Middle-earth. Tracks like The Shire, Rohan, and The Bridge of Khazad-dûm evoke emotions that align seamlessly with Tolkien's world. If you want a soundtrack that embodies adventure, loss, and triumph, this is it.
The Witcher (Sonya Belousova & Giona Ostinelli)
Whether you're reading The Witcher series by Andrzej Sapkowski or diving into a similarly gritty fantasy world, The Witcher TV show's soundtrack is a perfect companion. Songs like Geralt of Rivia and Toss a Coin to Your Witcher provide a mix of haunting melodies and powerful instrumentals that capture the spirit of a world filled with monsters, magic, and destiny.
Elder Scrolls: Skyrim (Jeremy Soule)
Though Skyrim is a video game rather than a book, its atmospheric soundtrack pairs beautifully with high fantasy reading. The Dragonborn Comes, Far Horizons, and Secunda create a perfect backdrop for epic quests and open-world exploration. Whether you're reading about warriors, dragons, or ancient prophecies, this soundtrack sets the perfect tone.
Game of Thrones (Ramin Djawadi)
The Game of Thrones soundtrack is filled with dramatic, haunting, and deeply emotional pieces that work well for reading A Song of Ice and Fire or any political fantasy filled with intrigue and war. Tracks like Light of the Seven and The Rains of Castamere bring a sense of foreboding, while The Winds of Winter captures the series' icy grandeur.
The Chronicles of Narnia (Harry Gregson-Williams)
If your fantasy reading leans toward the whimsical and adventurous, The Chronicles of Narnia soundtrack is an excellent choice. The Battle and Only the Beginning of the Adventure embody the wonder and magic of stepping into a new world, making them ideal for books filled with hidden realms and heroic journeys.
Two Steps from Hell (Thomas Bergersen & Nick Phoenix)
Though not tied to a specific book, Two Steps from Hell produces epic orchestral music used in trailers and films, making it a favorite among fantasy readers. Tracks like Heart of Courage, Victory, and Protectors of the Earth provide a pulse-pounding backdrop for battles and heroic moments.
Final Fantasy Soundtracks (Various Composers)
The Final Fantasy series has some of the most beautifully composed fantasy music ever created. Pieces like To Zanarkand (Final Fantasy X) and Somnus (Final Fantasy XV) evoke deep emotions, making them great for reading character-driven, emotional fantasy stories.
Shadow of the Colossus (Kow Otani)
This soundtrack is perfect for those who enjoy slow, atmospheric, and melancholic fantasy. With tracks like The Opened Way and Revived Power, it suits books about lonely quests, ancient mysteries, and bittersweet destinies.
Ori and the Blind Forest (Gareth Coker)
For fantasy books that have a more lyrical, ethereal quality, the soundtrack of Ori and the Blind Forest is breathtaking. Ori, Lost in the Storm and Light of Nibel create a haunting, otherworldly ambiance that enhances poetic or introspective fantasy novels.
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (Daniel Pemberton)
If you enjoy raw, powerful, and unconventional fantasy soundtracks, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword offers something unique. Tracks like The Devil & The Huntsman and Growing Up Londinium blend medieval sounds with intense energy, making them great for gritty, action-packed fantasy books.
Conclusion
Music has the power to elevate a reading experience, drawing us deeper into the worlds we love. Whether you're looking for something grand and orchestral or haunting and minimalist, these soundtracks provide the perfect accompaniment to fantasy reading. Do you have a favorite soundtrack for reading? Let us know in the comments!
