Dungeons & Dragons is currently experiencing a renaissance that's nothing short of spectacular. From the surge in popularity sparked by shows like Stranger Things and the blockbuster success of the Honor Among Thieves movie, to the proliferation of tabletop gaming podcasts and YouTube series, and the phenomenal reception of Baldur's Gate 3, there's never been a more exciting time to dive into the world of D&D. If you're new to this realm and feeling overwhelmed by the vast array of content available, particularly with the Fifth Edition (5E) which has dominated the scene for nearly a decade, fear not. We've compiled a list of the best Dungeons & Dragons books to consider in 2025, perfect for newcomers eager to embark on their first adventures. And for additional guidance, don't forget to check out our beginner's guide to D&D.

Before we delve into our recommendations, a couple of important notes: This guide will primarily highlight first-party content, as the abundance of third-party materials can be overwhelming and is often tailored for seasoned players looking to enhance their dungeon-crawling experiences. Additionally, we'll skip over the three essential core rulebooks: The Player’s Handbook, the Dungeon Master’s Guide, and the Monster Manual. These foundational texts, updated in 2024, are crucial for any D&D enthusiast, so if you haven't already, make sure to grab them. Below, you'll find the latest editions, or you can jump directly to our recommended sourcebooks and adventures.

### Player’s Handbook Core Rulebook

12$49.99 at Amazon### Dungeon Master’s Guide Core Rulebook

7$49.99 at Amazon### Monster Manual Core Rulebook

5$49.99 at Amazon### Xanathar’s Guide to Everything (Sourcebook)

### Xanathar's Guide to Everything

10See it at AmazonArguably the most essential sourcebook since its release in 2017, this expansion offers a wealth of new options for players, including over 25 subclasses, 20 racial feats, and numerous new spells. It also provides useful tools for game masters, such as trap-building guides and optional rules to enrich the core rulebooks' concepts, like handling downtime.

While this sourcebook leans more towards player utility, it's invaluable for those looking to expand their party's capabilities. Whether you're interested in a Wizard learning War Magic, a Paladin taking the Oath of Redemption, or a Monk mastering the art of drunken fighting, Xanathar's Guide to Everything is a must-have addition to your collection.

Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything (Sourcebook)

### Tasha's Cauldron of Everything

5See it at AmazonSimilar to Xanathar's Guide, Tasha's Cauldron of Everything is packed with new player options and expands on core rulebook ideas. Every class gains access to optional features, there are new spells to explore, and game masters can utilize new rules for sidekicks, natural hazards, monster negotiations, and supernatural environments.

Though primarily focused on player options, this sourcebook is essential for injecting diversity into your D&D party, making it a vital addition for any group looking to spice up their gameplay.

Waterdeep: Dragon Heist (Adventure)

### Waterdeep: Dragon Heist

3See it at AmazonOne of the most intriguing adventures from Wizards of the Coast, Waterdeep: Dragon Heist is rich with roleplay opportunities, intrigue, and deadly rivalries. Unlike many D&D adventures that focus on dungeon crawls and combat, this one immerses players in social encounters, political conflicts, and subterfuge.

The adventure kicks off when a renowned explorer draws the party into a fierce conflict between rival criminal factions, promising hidden treasures within the city's shadowy corners. The book offers four different antagonists, allowing the game master to mix things up, ensuring surprises even for seasoned players.

If you enjoy this adventure, consider its follow-up, Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage, which shifts the focus to dungeon exploration but offers an extended campaign option.

Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (Sourcebook/Adventure Bundle)

### Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse

4See it at AmazonPlanescape, the multiversal setting central to the Forgotten Realms, is one of D&D's most captivating worlds and the setting for the iconic RPG, Planescape: Torment. This three-book bundle delivers a comprehensive exploration of this fascinating universe.

Concerns about repeating the shortcomings of Spelljammer are unfounded; Wizards of the Coast has clearly taken feedback to heart. The setting book, Sigil and the Outlands, is packed with detailed descriptions of landmarks and intriguing factions. Morte’s Planar Parade offers a variety of monsters for GMs to challenge their players, while Turn of Fortune’s Wheel provides a thrilling adventure. This bundle is a testament to the depth and richness of the Planescape setting, and we highly recommend it.

Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk (Adventure)

### Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk

3See it at AmazonA recent expansion to the beloved The Lost Mine of Phandelver, this adventure brings players back to Phandalin to uncover the secrets of mysterious obelisks. As the campaign unfolds, the party unravels a sinister conspiracy that evolves into cosmic horror, with Mind Flayers playing a pivotal role.

This adventure stands out as unique and thrilling, especially in the wake of Baldur's Gate 3's success. Its blend of nostalgia and fresh horror elements makes it one of the best campaigns to run in the current D&D landscape.

Eberron: Rising from the Last War (Sourcebook/Adventure)

### Eberron: Rising from the Last War

9See it at AmazonSet in a war-torn world with floating castles, skyscrapers, and airships, Eberron offers a unique setting for those looking to venture beyond the traditional Forgotten Realms. This sourcebook introduces new species options known as Dragonmarks, and the post-war atmosphere provides rich opportunities for both roleplay and action-packed adventures.

The included campaign delves into the eerie Mournland, a region fraught with dangerous magic. Eberron's blend of pulp adventure and dark fantasy is a compelling choice for diverse gameplay experiences.

Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen (Adventure)

### Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen

1See it at AmazonThis adventure introduces the Dragonlance setting to 5E, featuring mass combat scenarios and dragon-centric battles. The narrative centers on the death knight Lord Soth and his draconian army, offering a lengthy and intense campaign. New player options are also included, adding further depth to the experience.

Curse of Strahd (Adventure)

### Curse of Strahd

5See it at AmazonA classic gothic horror adventure originally from Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, Curse of Strahd has been remade for 5E. With its eerie atmosphere, vampires, and macabre elements, it's a must-play for fans of horror-themed adventures.

For more on this setting, consider Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft, though the core experience of vampires in castles is compelling enough on its own.

The Wild Beyond the Witchlight (Adventure)

### The Wild Beyond the Witchlight: A Feywild Adventure

0See it at AmazonFor groups that enjoy roleplaying and non-violent problem-solving, The Wild Beyond the Witchlight offers a delightful adventure set in the Feywild. The setting features a carnival with plenty of intrigue and mystery. The book also introduces new playable species and backgrounds, including the chance to play as a carnival performer.

Third-party content

While we've focused on first-party content, it's worth mentioning a few standout third-party titles that deserve your attention:

Strongholds and Followers by MCDM Productions adds rules for game masters to provide their parties with bases and NPC allies. Its influence is evident in Wizards' upcoming Bastion rules for the core rulebooks.

Flee, Mortals! also from MCDM Productions, revamps many D&D monsters and introduces new ones, with a companion book, Where Evil Lives, offering a single dungeon adventure.

Tome of Beasts/Creature Codex by Kobold Press expands the monster roster, with the three volumes of Tome of Beasts being particularly useful for high-level challenges.

Grim Hollow by Ghostfire Gaming offers a dark fantasy setting filled with war, dark magic, and plagues, supported by a series of books for deep immersion.

And that concludes our list of recommended Dungeons & Dragons books for 2025. What are your thoughts? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to explore our favorite D&D dice sets and merch for additional inspiration.