Books matching: world building in fantasy and science fiction
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- #1
Save:The Gate of Ivory follows Theodora of Pyrene, a scholar stranded on the planet Ivory, who finds herself entangled in a job offered by sorcerer Ran Cormallan. The job binds her fortunes with Ran's house and puts her life in danger, leading to unexpected and dangerous situations. Theodora, an intelligent and determined character, navigates her outsider status in Ivory while facing challenges that test her wit and resilience. The book blends elements of fantasy and science fiction, offering a unique mix of world-building and a compelling narrative that keeps the story moving forward.
I was laying down cards in the marketplace when I got the latest job offer. "Here comes money," Irsa, the vendor next to me had said and moved out of the way so as not to scare him off. So I'd given h... - #2
Save:The Fifth Season is a captivating blend of fantasy and science fiction set in a geologically unstable future Earth. The story follows individuals with the magical ability to control the earth's structures, known as orogenes, who are feared and oppressed by society. Through multiple perspectives, the book weaves together a tale of survival, discrimination, and the impending end of the world. N.K. Jemisin's unique writing style, intricate world-building, and complex characters create an immersive and thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of power, oppression, and resilience.
For the past ten years you’ve lived as ordinary a life as possible. You came to Tirimo from elsewhere; the townsfolk don’t really care where or why. Since you were obviously well educated, you became ... - #3
Save:'Gardens of the Moon' in the series 'Malazan Book of the Fallen' by Steven Erikson introduces readers to a vast and complex world filled with intricate plots and fascinating characters. The story weaves together multiple storylines that eventually converge, creating a rich and compelling narrative that challenges readers with its depth and scope. Erikson's writing style immerses readers in a world where alliances shift, actions are complex, and choices have profound consequences, all while exploring themes of power, magic, and the involvement of gods in mortal affairs.
“Prod and pull,” the old woman was saying, “’tis the way of the Empress, as like the gods themselves.” She leaned to one side and spat, then brought a soiled cloth to her wrinkled lips. “Three husband... - #4
Save:Gideon the Ninth is a fantasy sci-fi novel about lesbian necromancers entangled in a Battle Royale cum murder mystery in a haunted mansion in space. The book follows the irrepressibly snarky goth jock lead, Gideon, through action sequences that could rival the best of shounen anime. Despite a hand-wavy world-building at times, the extremely metal plot turns and great ending keep readers hooked. The storytelling style is described as a new level of reading, encouraging readers to give it a try, especially through the audio version for better comprehension.
IN THE MYRIADIC YEAR OF OURLORD—the ten thousandth year of the King Undying, the kindly Prince of Death!—Gideon Nav packed her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and she escaped from the House... - #5
Save:Many readers praise 'A Wizard of Earthsea' for its captivating story of Ged's journey from a reckless youth to a powerful sorcerer, facing his own darkness and embarking on a quest to restore balance in Earthsea. The book is described as a bildungsroman encased in a fantasy world, focusing on Ged's coming of age, his growth as a character, and the themes of power, pride, and redemption. Ursula K. Le Guin's writing style is commended for its richness, world-building, and ability to bring characters and places to life with poetic rhythm and philosophical wisdom.
The Island of Gont, a single mountain that lifts its peak a mile above the storm-racked Northeast Sea, is a land famous for wizards. From the towns in its high valleys and the ports on its dark narrow... - #6
Save:The Pillars of the World, the first book in the Tir Alainn series by Anne Bishop, is a dark fantasy novel set in a world where humans, witches, and Fae coexist. The story follows Ari, a young witch living in the human world, who becomes entangled in a mystery surrounding the disappearance of parts of Tir Alainn, the land of the Fae. As Inquisitors target witches and the Fae world faces destruction, Ari finds herself at the center of a dangerous web of intrigue and power struggles. The book combines elements of folklore, strong female characters, and intricate world-building to create a compelling and immersive reading experience.
The writing style of The Pillars of the World has been described as engaging and dark, with richly crafted characters and a well-paced plot. Anne Bishop weaves together multiple storylines, including the struggles of witches, the menacing presence of Inquisitors, and the fading world of the Fae, to create a complex and intriguing narrative that keeps readers invested in the unfolding events.
Neall’s breath caught, suspended by fear and awe. The hounds looked like phantoms shifting across the meadow rather than living creatures. As they streaked past his hiding place, he didn’t dare move. ... - #7
Save:In a dystopian future on Mars, the society is highly stratified, with the Reds working in deadly slavery while the Golds live in freedom and opulence. The story follows Darrow, a Red who infiltrates the elite Golds to bring about change and overthrow the caste system. Drawing from Greek and Roman philosophy, the book is fast-paced and innovative, filled with violence and revenge. The protagonist's journey is compared to a hero's journey, and the world-building is excellent, with a satisfying ending that sets up the next book in the trilogy.
The first thing you should know about me is I am my father’s son. And when they came for him, I did as he asked. I did not cry. Not when the Society televised the arrest. Not when the Golds tried him.... - #8
Save:In "Cast in Shadow" by Michelle Sagara, readers are introduced to Kaylin, a young member of the Hawks in a complex world filled with multiple races and intricate magic. As she delves into solving a series of ritualistic child murders, Kaylin discovers her own dark past and hidden powers. The book weaves a tale of mystery and fantasy, with a focus on Kaylin's transformation and the challenges she faces in uncovering the truth behind the killings. Despite occasional confusion and rushed pacing, the novel presents a solid foundation for a series with surprising twists and a dense, well-crafted world.
Kaylin's journey unfolds against a backdrop of worldbuilding that is both intriguing and occasionally uneven, providing readers with a mix of engaging characters and intricate plotlines. The narrative style, while at times disjointed, offers glimpses into a complex society and a rich history that adds depth to the story. Despite some flaws in execution, the book sets the stage for a compelling fantasy series that explores themes of identity, power, and the consequences of one's past actions.
Black circles under the eyes were not, Kaylin decided, a very attractive statement. Neither was hair matted with old sweat, or eyes red with lack of sleep. She accepted the fact that on this particula... - #9
Save:'Jhereg' in the series 'Vlad Taltos' by Steven Brust follows the adventures of Lord Vladimir Taltos, a human assassin and crime lord within the House of Jhereg. The story details how Vlad is offered a job he can't refuse, leading him to navigate a world of high fantasy, complex political intrigue, and criminal underworld. is described as a quick, amusing, and light-hearted read, akin to a fantasy version of a Michael Crichton novel but with added humor and fantasy elements.
The plot of 'Jhereg' is noted for its solid writing, interesting characters, particularly the protagonist Vlad Taltos, and a mix of action and mystery elements. introduces readers to a unique world of Dragaera, filled with varying magical systems, political tensions, and a diverse cast of characters. Throughout the story, Vlad's adventures as an assassin and detective unfold, showcasing his wit, humor, and interactions with his companions and enemies.
ISLIPPED THE POISON dart into its slot under the right collar of my cloak, next to the lockpick. It couldn’t go in too straight, or it would be hard to get to quickly. It couldn’t go in at too much of... - #10
Save:"Furies of Calderon" by Jim Butcher is a high fantasy adventure set in a Roman-inspired empire where people have magical control over elemental furies. The story follows Tavi, an orphan without magical abilities, who unexpectedly becomes a key figure in a time of crisis. The plot includes political maneuvering, epic battles, and well-developed characters, creating a detailed and immersive world that keeps readers engaged from the start.
The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, with a mix of action-packed scenes and deeper intrigue that keeps readers invested in the characters and the unfolding plot. The narrative shifts between multiple perspectives, providing a multi-dimensional view of the story and adding layers to the political and magical elements of the world created by Jim Butcher.
Amara rode atop the swaying back of the towering old gargant bull, going over the plan in her head. The morning sun shone down on her, taking the chill out of the misty air and warming the dark wool ...
