1. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien: The granddaddy of modern fantasy, Tolkien's epic tale set the standard for worldbuilding, mythology, and character development.
2. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin: Known for its gritty realism, complex characters, and shocking twists, this series redefined what fantasy could be.
3. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis: A classic children's fantasy series with timeless themes of good vs. evil, faith, and redemption.
4. The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin: This series explores themes of magic, identity, and responsibility, and is known for its nuanced characters and insightful writing.
5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss: A beautiful and intricately woven story about a legendary wizard and his youth, with a captivating narrative and a strong sense of magic.
6. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan: An ambitious high fantasy epic with a sprawling world, a complex magic system, and a vast cast of characters.
7. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch: A swashbuckling fantasy novel with a unique setting, memorable characters, and a witty, fast-paced plot.
8. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke: A richly detailed novel about the return of magic to England, blending historical fiction with fantastical elements.
9. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson: A unique and innovative series with a complex magic system, intricate worldbuilding, and thrilling action sequences.
10. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison: A charming and poignant novel about an unlikely heir who must learn to rule a kingdom of goblins.
These are just a few suggestions, and there are countless other amazing fantasy books out there waiting to be discovered. The best way to find your own "must-reads" is to explore different authors, genres, and themes within fantasy.