24 Unforgettable Fantasy Books About Dwarves
Let’s dive deep into a fantastical realm where axes are sharp, beards defy convention, and adventures are as sturdy as the mountains themselves.
In the enchanted world of fantasy books about dwarves, the spotlight doesn’t just illuminate towering elves or mysterious wizards; it casts a warm glow on the resilient and riotously funny dwarven folk.
So, buckle your boots as we embark on a journey through tunnels of laughter, forge friendships that are as unyielding as Mithril, and perhaps learn the secret to the perfect dwarven beard twist. Get ready to chuckle, cheer, and raise a tankard to the literary wonders that unfold when dwarves take the stage in tales of mirth and mining!
The Dwarves by Markus Heitz
Embark on a beard-twitching journey with Tungdil Goldhand, a dwarf raised by humans.
When his tranquil life in the remote realm of Girdlegard is disrupted, Tungdil finds himself thrust into a colossal adventure. As he encounters magical artifacts, unruly allies, and enemies as menacing as a dragon with a toothache, Tungdil must forge his destiny.
Markus Heitz crafts a tale that’s not just about epic battles and ancient grudges but also about the quirks and camaraderie of dwarven kin.
Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through tunnels of laughter, heroism, and a few too many barrels of ale.
The Dwarves of Ice-Cloaks Series by A. Trae McMaken
The Dwarves of Ice-Cloaks masterfully spins a saga of dwarven tenacity spanning generations.
In The Crippled King, Naen, a dwarf prospector, grapples with morality as he discovers riches and encounters enslaved dwarves led by Jade. Amidst a treacherous wilderness, Naen faces the dilemma of leaving them to fate or standing against impending vengeance.
The Mouth of Fire, the second installment, delves into the Mountain of Ice-Cloak, plagued by the ürsi scourge. Queen Jade’s declining health sparks a succession struggle, entwining friendship, leadership, and ancient legends.
The third book, The Second Gate, introduces Topaz and Southcaver dwarves, revealing a smuggler’s gate and intertwining destinies.
While Bones of Stone, set centuries later, follows dwarf-maid Tourmaline’s quest for a true dwarven life, exploring tales of Ice-Cloak’s heroes.
Throughout, the series weaves diverse characters, timeless themes, and a captivating exploration of dwarven heritage.
Trollslayer by William King
Enter the chaotic world of mercenary dwarf Gotrek Gurnisson and his chronicler Felix Jaeger.
Gotrek, with an insatiable thirst for death, and Felix, with an insatiable thirst for staying alive, form an unlikely duo in their quest for glory and riches.
Whether battling trolls, skaven, or the chaos that follows them, their misadventures become the stuff of legends – if Felix can survive to write them down.
This first novel in the massively expansive Gotrek and Felix series is the perfect dwarven-themed jumping point in the longest-running Warhammer series in print.
The Dungeoneers by Jeffery Russell
Durham’s lackluster career takes a topsy-turvy turn when he’s accidentally assigned to caravan duty for a motley crew of dwarves who are more interested in dungeon contracts than epic adventures.
As professional dungeoneers, they specialize in clearing dungeons, recovering artifacts, and keeping powerful magical weapons out of the wrong hands. Durham, an accidental addition to the team, soon finds himself following a destiny he never signed up for.
With sharp wit, clever humor, and a refreshing dose of fantasy, the novel offers a hilarious and delightful read that brings back the fun and lightheartedness of classic fantasy adventures.
The Brotherhood of Dwarves by D.A. Adams
Join the charismatic dwarf, Roskin, as he leads a band of misfit dwarves on a quest that blends camaraderie, courage, and a generous sprinkle of humor.
Tasked with defending their homeland against the encroaching goblin hordes, this unlikely fellowship discovers that courage and loyalty are as mighty as any dwarf hammer.
Adams weaves a tale that’s not just about battles and beards but also about friendship and the strength found in diversity.
As Roskin and his comrades face challenges, from political intrigue to epic battles, the bonds of brotherhood prove unbreakable.
The Covenant of the Forge by Dan Parkinson
Set out on a hilarious and insightful journey into the dwarven clans of Krynn.
As bickering clans attempt reconciliation, the legendary Thorbardin Dwarves step onto the scene.
Join the dwarves on a long adventure, witness the construction of Everbardin, and learn the art of dwarven diplomacy.
This is an epic journey full of action, camaraderie, and a dwarf named Cale Greeneye whose dreams collide with the chaos of war and mythical lands.
Mud War by Aaron D. Schneider and Michael Anderle
Welcome to the chaotic world of the dwarvish legions, the Holt’Dwan, where war is messier than a goblin’s laundry.
The Ysgand Vale, freshly settled, becomes an undead playground, and in response, the Bad Badgers are resurrected – a group of condemned and disowned dwarves with nothing to lose and everything to prove.
As the dead refuse to stay dead and victory demands a hefty price, the Bad Badgers embark on a mission that’s equal parts gritty, hilarious, and downright dwarven.
Fallen King by J.T. Williams
Turgon Highstone’s quest for dwarfdom’s lost glory takes a turn as he loses everything and tumbles into a pit of misfortune.
Set on reclaiming his family’s rightful cities, Turgon gathers loyal dwarves, only to find himself in a dungeon, a hair’s breadth from revenge.
However, his path intersects with an overbearing priest and a demonic specter, revealing a dastardly sense of humor among dwarves.
Swept into greater turmoil, Turgon’s journey unfolds in a progression fantasy epic, from cursed dwarf cities in unforgiving deserts to mountains haunted by necromancers.
Dwarves & Daisies by Scott Walker
Melina Morgan’s holiday season takes a wild turn from festive to faetastic when a drunk dwarf disrupts her coastal town of Cold Creek.
Raised with a healthy fear of the Fair Folk, Melina must navigate weird happenings and unexpected threats as she discovers a hidden fae connection.
With her understanding of the fae world challenged, Melina realizes that protecting Cold Creek is up to her.
This action-packed novella unfolds with humor, surprises, and a dash of cozy magic.
Scott Walker weaves a tale where holidays are holifaed, dwarves bring more than just cheer, and Melina finds herself in a fae-filled adventure that promises more enchanting mysteries ahead.
A Dwarf’s Tale by Snorri Oarlock
Set in 754 AD in England, the story follows the adventures of a simple dwarf who leaves a comical footprint across history.
From advising Pippin the Short and Charlemagne to influencing Lombards, Frisians, and Franks, our dwarf becomes an unwitting maestro of medieval mischief.
He edits Beowulf, authors The Donation of Constantine, invents wolf-hounds and even takes on the Papacy.
With a comedic touch, he avenges St. Boniface and, impressively, manages to kill just one person – a record in literary dwarfdom.
As Gandalf and Thorin meet their ends, our hero ensures that seven dead dwarves, including Glói and Bifur, are remembered in their peculiar ways, their names echoing through the Eddas, Tolkien’s works, and into our present day.
Dragons of Autumn Twilight by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman
Dragons of Autumn Twilight, the opening volume of the iconic Dragonlance Chronicles, is a gripping fantasy saga set in the world of Krynn.
The tale unfolds as a diverse group of adventurers embarks on a perilous quest to thwart an impending evil. Among the distinctive characters, Flint Fireforge stands out as a stalwart dwarf, adding both humor and resilience to the narrative.
As ancient dragons return and the threat of war looms large, the group faces betrayals, encounters legendary creatures, and unravels mysteries that shape their destiny.
With dwarven wit and courage, Flint Fireforge contributes to the rich tapestry of the epic adventure, making this a must-read for fans of high fantasy.
Kingdom of the Dwarfs by Robb Walsh and David Wenzel
Embark on a whimsical expedition into the heart of dwarfdom with The Kingdom of the Dwarfs, a lavishly illustrated odyssey reminiscent of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.
The authors take us into the hitherto unknown daily lives and peculiar habits of dwarfs. Delve into their metalworking marvels, subterranean abodes, and intricate tunnel constructions.
This stunning new edition, a masterpiece remastered for a new generation, offers improved art and updated entries on Dwarven life and culture.
With newfound lore and the warm richness of Wenzel’s illustrations, this edition is a treasure trove for dwarven enthusiasts.
The Secret of Pax Tharkas by Douglas Niles
In this first installment of a Dragonlance trilogy, ancient ruins grip their secrets tightly as the dwarven realms of Krynn awaken.
A wealthy aristocratic dwarf flees his home in Kayolin, while a lucky gully dwarf from Thorbardin narrowly escapes with his life—meanwhile, a brilliant descendant of the once-mighty Hylar questions the failures that led her people toward self-destruction.
With the fate of dwarven-kind and all of Krynn hanging in the balance, evil wizard Willim the Black weaves his schemes, and the quest for mysterious gems unfolds.
Join this trio in a hilarious and thrilling adventure that’s a must-read for Dragonlance enthusiasts and lovers of epic fantasy.
The Doom of Dragonback by Gav Thorpe
In this installment of the popular Time of Legends series, the war with elves has left the dwarven realms in disarray. The once-impervious dwarfs of Ekrund, nestled in the Dragonback Mountains, find themselves on the brink of change.
As they continue mining gold amidst the threat of impending war, the Angbok clan faces decisions that could alter their way of life. Whether it’s exile or extinction, a great doom looms over Dragonback.
Thorpe crafts a Tolkienesque tale, offering a domestic view of dwarven life and introducing a unique protagonist, Haldora, the last scion of the Angbok Clan.
Join the dwarfs on a richly detailed adventure where daily life unfolds against the backdrop of impending doom.
Honourkeeper by Nick Kyme
Honourkeeper isn’t merely a dwarf and elf confrontation; it’s a captivating exploration of Warhammer mythology set in an intricate dwarf world.
Kyme skillfully navigates multiple dwarf perspectives, delving into their civilization, language, and culture.
The plot unfolds with precision – meeting elves, falling victim to deceit, engaging in war with Norscans, and ultimately unraveling a web of revenge. Kyme’s serious approach enriches the narrative, offering a compelling addition to the Warhammer universe.
The story combines honor, battle, ale, and unexpected twists that illuminate the unyielding dwarf culture.
Grombrindal: Chronicles of the Wanderer by David Guymer
Grombrindal: Chronicles of the Wanderer follows the legendary White Dwarf, Grombrindal, on an enthralling journey across the Warhammer world.
This collection of stories captures the essence of the iconic character, weaving tales of his adventures and encounters with various races, including dwarfs, elves, and greenskins.
As Grombrindal roams through realms and battles formidable foes, readers witness the wit and wisdom that make him a beloved figure in Warhammer lore.
Guymer’s narrative skill and attention to detail contribute to the rich tapestry of Grombrindal’s exploits, making this book a must-read for Warhammer enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the legendary dwarf.
Dwarves in Space Series by S.E. Zbasnik and Sabrina Zbasnik
Dwarves in Space catapults readers into a cosmic adventure where dwarves, elves, orcs, and humans find themselves in the far reaches of the universe.
The diverse crew includes a sugar-addicted dwarven pilot, an elven engineer, an orcish doctor, a silent djinn, and the lone human struggling to keep it all together with duct tape.
The trilogy unfolds with Dwarves in Space, introducing a captain with a hidden past.
In Family Matters, the Elation-Cru races across the galaxy to secure a peculiar substance to settle a family dispute.
While Free Radicals pits the crew against terrorists on a supposedly relaxing day.
And a prequel novella, Tempus Interruptus, unravels time and alliances with humor.
Prepare for a dysfunctional yet harmonious crew, a dwarf love for tacos, elven assassins in air ducts, orcs in sweater vests, and a captain desperate to prevent her ship from exploding. Each book in this cosmic escapade is a stand-alone piece, creating a quirky puzzle of interstellar mayhem.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is a captivating fantasy adventure featuring the reluctant hero Bilbo Baggins, who is thrust into an epic quest led by the valiant Thorin Oakenshield.
Gandalf, the wizard, guides them as they embark on a perilous journey to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and its treasure from the fearsome dragon Smaug.
Dwarves play a significant role in the narrative, each characterized by distinct personalities and skills.
From the brawny Dwalin to the skilled craftsman Balin, the dwarves bring a sense of camaraderie and determination to the group.
Their encounters with goblins, elves, and other fantastical creatures add depth to the rich tapestry of Tolkien’s Middle-earth.
Lord of The Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Lord of the Rings is a monumental fantasy trilogy that unfolds in the captivating world of Middle-earth many years after the return of Bilbo Baggins.
The story includes The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King, weaving an intricate narrative of epic proportions.
The saga begins with the unassuming hobbit Frodo Baggins inheriting the One Ring, a powerful artifact sought by the dark lord Sauron. Alongside a diverse fellowship that includes humans, elves, dwarves, and wizards, Frodo embarks on a perilous quest to destroy the ring and thwart Sauron’s malevolent plans.
Dwarves, represented by the stalwart Gimli, contribute their strength and resilience to the fellowship. Gimli’s camaraderie with his companions, especially Legolas the elf, adds depth to the diverse group united against a common enemy.
The Crown Conspiracy by Michael J. Sullivan
Meet Royce Melborn, a master thief with a rap sheet as long as a dragon’s tail, and Hadrian Blackwater, a swordsman whose blade is as sharp as his quick wit.
In a kingdom teetering on the edge of chaos, these unlikely companions stumble into a royal conspiracy that will make your head spin faster than a wizard’s spell.
Sullivan crafts a tale that blends danger and banter seamlessly.
Royce and Hadrian’s dynamic steals the show, their exchanges a delightful mix of sarcasm and camaraderie. Navigating political intrigue has never been this entertaining.
Homeland by R.A. Salvatore
Delve into the gripping origin story of one of fantasy’s most iconic characters: Drizzt Do’Urden.
Born into the dark and treacherous world of the drow, a subterranean race of elves, Drizzt faces the daunting challenge of escaping the clutches of a ruthless society.
Dwarves sneak into the scene, not with a boisterous entrance but with a cunning subtlety. In this subterranean soiree, Salvatore crafts Drizzt Do’Urden’s origin tale, and amidst the dark dance of intrigue, dwarves contribute a nuanced harmony.
In the vast literary landscape that is the legacy of R.A. Salvatore, Drizzt Do’Urden encounters many dwarven folks, and throughout numerous books, this mysterious warrior and his fealty to these feisty folks prove to be a center point of inspiration for the author. Start with Homeland, but stay for the nearly endless journey.
The Fifth Elephant by Terry Pratchett
The Fifth Elephant swings its trunk into the uproarious Discworld, and guess what’s thrown into the mix? Dwarves, those sturdy, bearded folk who bring both humor and gravity to the tale.
As Commander Vimes navigates the quirky landscape of international diplomacy, the dwarves, ever pragmatic, add a touch of their own brand of wisdom.
Pratchett, a maestro of wit, weaves a narrative where dwarves are not mere sidekicks but players in the comedic symphony.
In this fantastical dance of politics and puns, the dwarves dig deep, blending earthiness with hilarity.
A quick note…
In Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series, dwarves play prominent roles in several novels, bringing their unique blend of humor, tradition, and stout-heartedness to the forefront. Here are a few other Discworld novels featuring dwarves:
1. Thud! – In this thrilling tale, the ancient enmity between dwarves and trolls flares up, and Commander Vimes must prevent a full-blown war while navigating cultural intricacies.
2. Jingo – Dwarves and trolls find themselves caught in the middle of international tensions in this satirical take on war and diplomacy.
3. Going Postal – Dwarves bring their engineering expertise to the Grand Trunk Semaphore Company, adding their touch to the chaotic world of Ankh-Morpork communications.
4. Making Money – The financial world of Ankh-Morpork expands, and dwarves contribute their skills to the chaotic world of banking.
Age of Swords by Michael J. Sullivan
Dwarves play a pivotal role in a world teetering on the brink of war and magical upheaval.
The story unfolds in Elan, a realm where ancient gods, magical artifacts, and diverse races converge. The dwarves, known for their craftsmanship and resilience, find themselves entangled in the larger conflicts that threaten the stability of their world.
The novel follows multiple storylines, including the adventures of a group of unlikely heroes.
As war looms on the horizon, alliances are forged, secrets are uncovered, and the fate of kingdoms hangs in the balance.
Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski
In this, the third book in the Witcher series, we follow the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher.
The aftermath of the Nilfgaardian invasion sets the stage for a gripping tale of political upheaval and magical destiny. Princess Ciri, with her elven heritage and potent magical abilities, becomes a coveted pawn in the power struggles between the Northern Kingdoms and the Empire of Nilfgaard.
Geralt of Rivia takes on the responsibility of safeguarding Ciri, leading to a perilous journey alongside sorceresses Triss Merigold and Yennefer.
The narrative explores the intricate dynamics of a world where dwarves, elves, and humans grapple with war, prophecy, and the enigmatic forces that shape their destinies.
