Isekai novels have gained immense popularity in recent years for their unique blend of fantasy, adventure, and reincarnation themes. Isekai novels are a good way to spend your time on if you want an action-packed adventure with twists and fantasy beings, followed by decent to good character development. We’re here to help you to with the top 10 Isekai novels you should read right now.
Among the numerous subgenres in the isekai category, stories featuring summoner or tamer protagonists have become increasingly popular. Summoner story is the one in which the MC can summon powerful beings and command them as he/she pleases. In this article, we will be discussing the top 10 isekai novels where the main character is a summoner or tamer, exploring their fascinating stories and captivating abilities. The list is hand-picked to make sure to captivate readers who are fans of isekai and the summoner/tamer subgenre.
Re: Monster
Written by Kanekiru Kogitsune and illustrated by Kobayakawa Haruyoshi, Re:Monster is an excellent choice if you want to taste a bit of this cusine called “Isekai”. The story follows the journey of a young man, reincarnated as a goblin in a fantasy world. The protagonist, now known as Rou, can absorb the abilities of creatures he kills, which eventually leads him to become a powerful summoner. Rou’s primary strength lies in his ability to summon and control monsters. As he gains more abilities and knowledge, he can summon more powerful creatures and eventually form his army. He becomes a respected figure among the other goblins and leads them in battles against other factions.
Re:Monster is slightly on the mature side of the spectrum due to it’s gore elements. Other than that, the Isekai novel follows the usual pattern of an Isekai Story with a pinch of better character development.
The Rising of the Shield Hero
The Rising of the Shield Hero is a Japanese light novel popular for its Isekai themes. Written by Aneko Yusagi and illustrated by Minami Seira, the story becomes an immersive and excellent experience everyone should witness once. The MC, Naofumi becomes the “Shield Hero,” the weakest hero among four chosen to save the kingdom from disaster. However this puts him at a disadvantage when compared to other heroes. Fortunately, he eventually discovers his ability to summon and control creatures known as “monsters”. These creatures become invaluable allies in his quest to clear the waves of destruction that threaten the world.
Rising of the Shield Hero explores the themes of betrayal and redemption, followed by stunning animation and visually mind-blowing fights.
Overlord
Overlord is a Japanese light novel series written by Kugane Maruyama and illustrated by So-bin. The Overlord novel follows the journey of Momonga, a powerful wizard who is transported to a virtual reality game world that has become a reality. As Momonga explores this new world, he discovers that he can summon and control a wide variety of creatures, including monsters, demons, and the undead. Eventually, he (the overlord)becomes one of the most powerful summoner or tamer in the reincarnated world. With his power of summoning, he uses his army of summoned creatures to conquer the world and expand his power and influence.
Overlord, in my opinion is also a great comedy novel. For reasons you might not like the story, you’ll love the comedy. In addition, Overlord has great action sequences and waifus. This makes Overlord, a great Isekai that one should read atleast once.
How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom
How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom is a Japanese light novel series, written by Dojyomaru and illustrated by Fuyuyuki. The story follows the journey of Kazuya Souma, a young man summoned to a fantasy world to become the new king of the Kingdom of Elfrieden. Kazuya possesses the ability to summon and control creatures known as “divine beasts”. He uses his summoned creatures to defend his kingdom against invaders and to help rebuild the modernize his kingdom’s infrastructure. He also employs his strategic and diplomatic skills to improve the lives of his citizens and strengthen his alliances with neighbouring kingdoms.
As the series progresses, Kazuya faces various challenges and threats to his kingdom. But, he relies on his summoned creatures and his advisors to help him navigate through difficult situations. He also works hard to balance his responsibilities as a king with his desire to ensure the happiness and prosperity of his people.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” is a Japanese light novel series, written by Fuse and illustrated by Mitz Vah. The story follows the journey of young Satoru Mikami, reincarnated as a slime in a new world. He discovers his ability to absorb and copy the abilities of other creatures. This allows him to become a powerful summoner and tamer. Eventually, Satoru becomes a force to be reckon with. Additionally, this novel just nails it with comedy and action.
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” is also a highly regarded anime. Would recommend it to anyone who wants a good’ol fantasy. It’s also one of the best Isekai novels out there. You’re going have an absolute blast reading this. No wonder it made into our top 10 Isekai novel list.
Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody
Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody is a Japanese light novel series, written by Hiro Ainana and illustrated by Shri. The story follows the journey of Ichiro Suzuki, a game programmer transported to a new world due to circumstances in the real world. Ichiro discovers his ability to summon and control powerful creatures known as “familiars,” allowing him to become a powerful summoner and tamer.
Also, the animation quality of the anime is exquisite and really thrilling. A great action-packed adventure story.
Konjiki no Word Master: Yuusha Yonin ni Makikomareta Unique Cheat
Konjiki no Word Master: Yuusha Yonin ni Makikomareta Unique Cheat is a Japanese light novel series, written by Tomoto Sui and illustrated by Sumaki Syungo. The story follows the journey of Rudeus Greyrat, reincarnated in a new world with his memories intact. Rudeus discovers his ability to summon and control powerful creatures known as “spirits,” allowing him to become a powerful summoner and tamer.
With also a good manga adaptation, it’s safe to say that Konjiki no Word Master is great!
The Faraway Paladin
The Faraway Paladin is a Japanese light novel series, written by Kanata Yanagino and illustrated by Kususaga Rin. The story follows the journey of Will, a boy raised by three undead beings in a ruined cathedral. Will discovers his ability to summon and control powerful creatures known as “guardians”.
Faraway Paladin is a story of its own in my opinion. This isn’t your usual Isekai. The emotional aspect has more importance than the action. Honestly, this Isekai summoner novel is just a breath of fresh air. Even though poorly implemented Isekai elements persist, the good aspects outweigh them.
Recently, it also recieved an anime adaptation. You could check that out too.
The Master of Ragnarok & Blesser of Einherjar
The Master of Ragnarok & Blesser of Einherjar is a Japanese light novel series, written by Seiichi Takayama and illustrated by Yukisan. Yuuto Suoh discovers his ability to summon and control powerful creatures known as “einherjar” in the new wolrd.. This new ability allows him to become a powerful summoner and tamer.
As the story progresses, Yuuto becomes a respected figure in the new world. His summoning and taming abilities become an invaluable asset in his quest to unite and protect his people.
The plot is kinda basic but what makes you stuck with it is its action sequences and spicy romance. That’s the reason why it kind of makes it into the top 10 Isekai novel category.
The Magic in this Other World is Too Far Behind!
The Magic in this Other World is Too Far Behind! is a Japanese light novel series, written by Gamei Hitsuji and illustrated by himesuz. Suimei Yakagi, a high school student, unfortunately is caught up in a situation and ultimately is transported to a new world. Suimei discovers his ability to summon and control powerful creatures known as “elementals”, allowing him to become a powerful summoner and tamer.
As the story progresses, Suimei becomes a powerful summoner in the entire world.
In conclusion, these top 10 isekai novels with a summoner or tamer protagonist offer unique and entertaining stories. Whether they are reincarnated in a new world or transported to another dimension, these characters use their summoning and taming abilities to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. This is why Isekai Novels are so captivating.
