Books matching: rich worldbuilding
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- #1
Save:In "The Heart of What Was Lost" by Tad Williams, readers are taken back to the world of Osten Ard immediately after the events of the Memory, Sorrow and Thorn trilogy. The story follows Duke Isgrimnur as he leads his army in pursuit of the remaining Norns, providing a balanced perspective by delving into the minds of both humans and Norns. The narrative explores themes of war, hatred, and the consequences of past actions, shedding light on the complexities of both sides of the conflict. The writing style captures the dark and grim atmosphere of war, while also infusing the story with sparks of hope and warmth, characteristic of Tad Williams' storytelling.
“Once upon the past, during the preserve of the queen’s sixteenth High Celebrant, in the era of the Wars of Return, our people, the Cloud Children, were defeated by a coalition of mortals and the Zida... The 'Frugal Wizard?s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England' is an irreverent take on serious wizard spirits in a medieval fantasy setting. The book features great world-building in a short format, with a main character who overcomes bad habits in a unique way. The story involves dimension hopping, adventurous and weird concepts, and an enjoyable mix of humor and redemption. The main character is described as hilarious, self-aware, and self-deprecating, making for a lovely and poignant read. The book is a departure from the Cosmere series, focusing on a different angle of storytelling and receiving praise for its outlandish illustrations and fun storytelling.
- #3
Save:The Empress of Salt and Fortune by Nghi Vo is a fantasy novella that follows a non-binary cleric named Chih as they visit a house where a former empress was exiled. The story unfolds as Rabbit, the empress's old servant, gradually reveals the true story behind the empress's rise to power, fall from grace, and eventual resurgence. Through a series of flashbacks and present-day interactions, the novella delves into themes of memory, storytelling, female empowerment, and the overlooked voices of women in historical records. The narrative is rich in world-building, with a unique storytelling style that weaves together the past and present, creating a poignant and thought-provoking tale.
Chiming bells. Chih rolled to their feet, glancing around the perimeter and squinting at the jangling string of bells that surrounded the small campsite. For a moment, they were back at the abbey in S... - #4
Save:'Ancillary Mercy' by Ann Leckie is the final installment in the 'Imperial Radch' series, focusing on Breq, a former AI of a destroyed ship named Justice of Toren. The plot delves into complex system politics, AI rights, intricate character relationships, and a dramatic conflict with an all-powerful ruler. Leckie's writing style weaves a compelling narrative filled with multi-dimensional characters, intricate world-building, and engaging political intrigue, making the series a drama of manners with thought-provoking themes on justice and identity.
Lieutenant Ekalu was on watch. Indignant about something. A little angry, even. Before her the wall displayed a view of Athoek Station, the ships surrounding it. The dome over its gardens barely visib...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Imperial Radch ) - #5
Save:'Bane' in the series 'The Ladyships' by author Bex McLynn follows the story of Therion, who is revealed to be more than meets the eye in the previous book. The plot revolves around Therion's journey, his interactions with Maude, a character with mysterious new abilities, and their adventures in an alien world. The writing style is characterized by humor, world-building involving technopathy, and a mix of action and romance that keeps readers engaged throughout the story.
(Also, see 70 recommendations for the series The Ladyships ) - #6
Save:'The Shifter Bachelor' in the series 'The Rare and The Unknown' by author Shai August is a paranormal romance novel that introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, featuring a black hero and heroine. The story follows Imani, a strong and curvy Alpha Were elephant tired of her Alpha training and the pressure to mate and make babies. She runs away to Texas and finds herself in a new community of shifters, where she meets Ansel, the Alpha of the Rare and Unknowns. Despite their initial resistance, a powerful and electric attraction develops between Imani and Ansel, leading to a fated mates scenario with dangerous implications for the shifter world.
The book is praised for its strong character development, particularly highlighting Imani as a powerful and engaging protagonist who defies stereotypes of curvy characters in romance novels. The plot is filled with diverse animal shifters and witches, creating an intriguing world with rich world-building that explores matriarchal Herd culture. The romance between Imani and Ansel is well-developed, sweet, and features an erotic connection that electrifies the narrative, making it an engaging read for fans of paranormal romance.
- #7
Save:'Derring-Do for Beginners' in the series 'The Red Company' by author Victoria Goddard follows the adventures of a group of young outsiders, including Jullanar, Damian, and Fitzroy, as they navigate their way through friendship, magic, and self-discovery. The story focuses on the formation of the Red Company, a band of fighters and adventurers, as they embark on a journey of finding their places in the world and uncovering their desires and potentials. The writing style is described as beautifully written, with colorful characters exploring a rich and expansive world, filled with subtle world-building and delightful storytelling.
- #8
Save:'Sword Dance' by A.J. Demas is a high fantasy novel set in an imaginary world inspired by the Ancient Mediterranean. The story revolves around the main characters, Damiskos and Varazda, as they navigate a world filled with political intrigue, espionage, mystery, and romance. The writing style is described as beautifully balanced, with a slow-paced plot that never drags, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the world and the characters' relationships.
THE LAST LEG of the journey down to the villa would indeed have been easier on a mule. The man at the inn that morning had said so. If he hadn’t followed that up with a frown and a little up-and-down ... - #9
Save:"Point of Hopes" in the series "Astreiant" by Melissa Scott follows the story of a city guard and a former soldier who are investigating the mysterious disappearance of children in a city where fortune is based on stars. The series is described as a blend of high city fantasy and classic older fantasy, set in a city full of murder and fate determined by stars. The main characters are in a gay relationship, and their adventures involve investigations, mysteries, and magical elements. The writing style is noted for its focus on the main characters' relationship and their various adventures in a fantasy city setting.
The long room was cool, and very quiet, not even thesound of a house clock to disturb the silence. The magist who satin the guest’s chair by the empty fireplace was very aware of thatunnerving quiet, ... - #10
Save:In Stars Uncharted, readers are taken on a thrilling space adventure filled with body modifications, evil corporations, space exploration, and action-packed scenes. The story follows Nika Rik Terri, a talented body modder, who gets entangled in a dangerous situation involving a powerful company. Alongside her, Josune Arriola embarks on a mission with captain Hammond Roystan, only to face unexpected challenges when their crew is murdered. As the plot unfolds, the characters navigate a universe where corporations hold immense power, leading to a high-stakes chase that keeps the readers hooked till the end. The narrative style throws readers into a vividly creative world, exploring themes of trust, friendship, and the consequences of being one step ahead of those in pursuit.
The first thing Nika noticed about the man who buzzed the studio bell was his scar. A deep purple line that started at the top center of his lip and went upward in a diagonal slash across his right ey...
