Books Like...
The Citadel of the Autarch is the fourth and final installment in Gene Wolfe's The Book of the New Sun series. The book wraps up the story with Severian becoming Autarch, resolving plot lines, encountering strange aliens, and hinting at time manipulation elements. The series is described as rich, deep, profound, and demanding of a re-reading due to its complexity and mind-blowing revelations. Despite the intricate narrative, some readers found it to be a wild ride rather than a cohesive story.
If you liked The Citadel of the Autarch, here are the top 9 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: The Book of the New Sun)
- #1
Save:"Nightside the Long Sun" by Gene Wolfe is a part of the series 'The Book of the Long Sun'. The story follows Silk, a priest living on a generational spaceship where the inhabitants are unaware they are flying through space. Silk gets entangled in the political, religious, and mystical machinations of gods and government. The writing style is described as rich, with intricate language, symbolism, and a plot that is both compelling and thought-provoking.
Enlightenment came to Patera Silk on the ball court; nothing could ever be the same after that. When he talked about it afterward, whispering to himself in the silent hours of the night as was his cus... - #2
Save:Foundation and Empire, the second book in the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov, continues the saga with big ideas and central characters like Bayta and the mysterious enemy, the Mule. The plot revolves around the Foundation facing challenges from the remnants of the Galactic Empire and the unexpected foe, the Mule, who can manipulate people's emotions telepathically. The story is a mix of psychohistory predictions, charismatic leaders, and the struggle to maintain the Seldon Plan in a vast, science fiction universe.
But Bel Riose was young and energetic—energetic enough to be sent as near the end of the universe as possible by an unemotional and calculating court—and curious besides. Strange and improbable tales ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Foundation ) - #3
Save:The Knight by Gene Wolfe is a fantasy novel that follows the story of a young boy named Able who finds himself in a magical realm where he quickly transforms into a man. The book explores Able's journey as he learns to be a knight and navigates through various fantastical elements such as faeries, gods, and kings. The writing style of Gene Wolfe in this novel is described as unique, with a focus on character development and a mix of traditional fantasy elements intertwined with complex themes of knighthood, sacrifice, honor, and enlightenment.
You must have stopped wondering what happened to me a long time ago; I know it has been many years. I have the time to write here, and what looks like a good chance to get what I write to where you ar... - #4
Save:'Sundiver' in 'The Uplift Saga' by David Brin is a classic science fiction novel that explores the possibilities of different intelligent beings in the universe. It follows a mystery set in the sun where humans, aliens, and uplifted neo-humans navigate political tensions and conspiracies. The writing style is described as old-school SciFi with a focus on scientific elements and world-building, creating an intriguing environment for the characters to interact in.
The Bradbury was a new ship. It used a technology far ahead of its predecessors on the commercial line, taking off from sea level under its own power instead of riding to the station at the top of one... - #5
Save:The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint by Brady Udall is a heartwarming and poignant story about a Native American boy named Edgar who faces numerous challenges and trials as he navigates life outside the reservation. The book follows Edgar's journey of resilience and survival, drawing readers in with its engaging plot and unique writing style that balances elements of humor and seriousness.
IF I COULD tell you only one thing about my life it would be this: when I was seven years old the mailman ran over my head. As formative events go, nothing else comes close; my careening, zigzag exist... - #6
Save:The Fifth Head of Cerberus by Gene Wolfe is a multi-layered work that delves into matters of identity, freedom, and colonization across three interconnected novellas set on twin colony worlds. The book explores themes of uncertainty, ambiguity, and the nature of reality through the lens of unreliable narrators and intricate storytelling techniques. Wolfe's prose is described as beautiful, deep, and technically perfect, creating a complex yet rewarding reading experience.
When I was a boy my brother David and I had to go to bed early whether we were sleepy or not. In summer particularly, bedtime often came before sunset; and because our dormitory was in the east wing o... - #7
Save:Out of the Earth by Jake Bible is an action-packed monster novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story unfolds with various characters facing untimely ends in different ways, evoking a range of emotions from shock to excitement. The book introduces a new threat to Earth, setting the stage for a wild adventure filled with chaos and destruction. Despite mixed feelings initially, readers find themselves engrossed in the well-written plot that intertwines different storylines seamlessly.
- #8
Save:Readers find "Richard III" by William Shakespeare to be a compelling and engaging play, with a mix of dark humor and memorable characters. The Folger edition is highly praised for its presentation, annotations, and modern perspective essay, providing a valuable reading experience. The play is described as one of Shakespeare's best works, featuring a complex villain in Richard and a poetic writing style that shines through.
Shakespeare endures through history. He illuminates later times as well as his own. He helps us to understand the human condition. But he cannot do this without a good text of the plays. Without editi... - #9
Save:On the giant planet of Majipoor, a poor amnesiac juggler named Valentine embarks on a long and adventurous journey to reclaim his throne, accompanied by his friends. The story follows Valentine's self-discovery and realization of his true identity as the Coronal of the world, leading to a conflict between his desire for a simple life and the responsibilities of monarchy. The book blends elements of fantasy and science fiction, depicting a world with diverse human and alien characters, exotic settings, and themes of justice and self-realization.
And then, after walking all day through a golden haze of humid warmth that gathered about him like fine wet fleece, Valentine came to a great ridge of outcropping white stone overlooking the city of P...
