Books Like...

'March Upcountry' is the first book in the 'Empire of Man' series by David Weber and John Ringo. The story follows Prince Roger McLintock and his bodyguards, a troop of marines, who crash land on a hostile alien planet and must traverse its dangerous terrain to make their way home. The book is a blend of military science fiction and fantasy, with a focus on survival, character development, and epic battles. The writing style incorporates humor, intricate world-building, and detailed character stories, making it a captivating and fast-paced read for fans of the genre.

'The Palace Job' by Patrick Weekes is a high fantasy ensemble heist book reminiscent of Ocean's Eleven in a Dungeons and Dragons setting. The story follows Loch, a rogue captain, who assembles a diverse crew to recover a stolen elvish book, leading them on a wild adventure filled with fights, witty banter, and unexpected twists. The book features a mix of fantasy elements like magic, floating cities, and mythical creatures, creating a fun and entertaining read for fans of caper stories.

The writing style of 'The Palace Job' is described as light and easy to read, with a focus on humor, clever dialogue, and a fast-paced plot filled with double-crossings and surprises. Despite some predictable twists and juvenile humor, the book manages to engage readers with its diverse cast of characters and the thrilling escapades they embark on.

"Spellsinger" by Alan Dean Foster follows the story of Jon Tom, a law student amateur musician, who is transported to a world of magic and talking animals. Jon Tom discovers his musical talents have turned magical, allowing him to conjure items through song. Together with a group of diverse characters, including a turtle mage and a human rogue, Jon Tom embarks on an adventure to save the world from a looming threat. The plot combines elements of familiar fantasy themes with a unique twist involving musical-based magic and anthropomorphic creatures.

The writing style of "Spellsinger" is described as humorous, entertaining, and light-hearted. presents a coming-of-age story set in a fantasy world where the protagonist, Jon Tom, navigates through new challenges and discovers his hidden powers. The narrative incorporates elements of rock music and magical spells, creating a whimsical and engaging atmosphere that appeals to readers who enjoy fun and imaginative fantasy adventures.

'Deeds of Honor' is a collection of short stories set in the world of Paksenarrion, providing deeper insights into characters and situations left unexplored in the main novels. The stories delve into the lives of both minor and major characters, offering different perspectives and filling in gaps in the series. Elizabeth Moon's writing style is characterized as character-driven and insightful, providing a blend of military science fiction and fantasy that immerses readers into a different dimension of the world.

The Thorn of Dentonhill by Marshall Ryan Maresca follows the story of Veranix Calbert, a magic student who takes on the role of a vigilante at night to disrupt the local drug trade and seek vengeance against the crime boss who killed his father. The book combines elements of mystery, adventure, and magic, creating a unique and entertaining tale set in the vibrant and diverse city of Maradaine. The author's writing style brings freshness to familiar tropes, with well-developed characters and a richly detailed world that captivates readers.

The Outstretched Shadow is a high fantasy novel that follows the story of young Kellen, son of Archmage Lycalaelon, living in the Golden City of Thousand Bells. The city is ruled by High Magic, a precise and male-dominated form of magic that Kellen finds predictable and boring. However, when Kellen stumbles upon the forbidden books of wild magic, he embarks on a journey that leads him to uncover the secrets of a powerful enemy lurking in Obsidian Mountain. The book introduces a world filled with wizards, elves, dragons, and a great struggle between good and evil, setting the stage for an epic trilogy where alliances will be tested and the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

The story is a classic tale of a young protagonist facing his fears and learning to stand on his own, set against the backdrop of a world teeming with magical creatures and ancient prophecies. The narrative weaves together themes of change, choices, responsibility, and the eternal battle between good and evil, with elements of magic, unicorns, demons, and a coming-of-age journey that propels the main character into a world of adventure and danger.

The Coward by Stephen Aryan follows the journey of Kell Kressia, a living legend and the only survivor of a quest to slay the Ice Lich ten years ago. Now, Kell is being called upon to return to the Frozen North to defeat a new threat. The book explores themes of coming of age, lost innocence, survivor's guilt, trauma, and the power of a good story. The plot unfolds like a DnD adventure, with encounters that forge the characters into a found family unit, and the writing style is engaging yet straightforward, putting the reader right in the middle of the story.

The story delves into the truth of what being a hero really means, the exploration of inner fears and the ability to unlock one's inner hero when faced with adversity. Through Kell's characterization, readers witness a reluctant hero battling his own inner demons while forming bonds with a ragtag group in a fight for survival against both men and beasts. The multiple points of view provide insight into the political and social aspects of the Five Kingdoms, setting the stage for a deeper exploration in the sequel.

The Diamond Throne is the first book in 'The Elenium' series by David Eddings. The story follows Sparhawk, a renowned knight and Queen's Champion, who returns from exile to find his queen, Ehlana, seriously ill and the kingdom in turmoil. With the help of his brotherhood and a legendary sorceress, Sparhawk must find a cure for the queen while keeping her throne secure. As they delve deeper into the plot, they uncover a larger evil threatening their world. The book features a straightforward plot that meanders at times but sets up the next book well, promising more intrigue and complexity as the series progresses.

Eddings' writing style in The Diamond Throne is described as easy to read, with witty and entertaining dialogue. The characters are highlighted as the high point of the book, with Eddings showcasing his skill in making them memorable and humorous. Despite some sections of back story dragging the momentum, the novel is praised for its well-constructed plot, humor, and almost serious themes. Fans of Raymond E. Feist are recommended to give this book a try for its engaging characters and traditional quest narrative.

The Redemption of Althalus by Leigh Eddings and David Eddings is a fantasy adventure where the goddess Dweia enlists the help of masterthief Althalus to battle her brother Daeva. The book follows their journey as they strike a deal to teach each other different values, leading to an engaging and fun read. The plot involves tactical battles, witty banter, and a unique element of using doors to travel through time and space, all while exploring themes of morality and the battle between good and evil.

The writing style of the book is described as effortless, with endearing characters and a plot that starts strong but may lose some readers towards the end. Some readers find the book to be a perfect standalone fantasy adventure, while others appreciate the mix of sci-fi elements and the not-so-typical hero in Althalus. Overall, the book is seen as a fun and enjoyable ride with memorable characters and a unique approach to the classic fantasy genre.

In "Domes of Fire," the sequel to the Elenium trilogy, our hero Sparhawk embarks on a new quest to save the world with his familiar purposeful, humorous, and ironic demeanor. The book is set six years after the first series, allowing for some changes and new quirks in the characters. The story revolves around Sparhawk and his friends facing challenges in a new continent, showcasing Eddings' entertaining writing style and the strong interactions between characters.