Books Like...
'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.
If you liked Gardens of the Moon, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:The Eye of the World, the first book in The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan, follows the epic journey of two young women and three young men as they leave their small village in the Two Rivers. The series introduces readers to a richly detailed world with a well-thought-out magic system and a diverse cast of characters. The plot is filled with adventure, danger, magic, darkness, and brave deeds, capturing the readers' imagination and keeping them on the edge of their seats.
The writing style in The Eye of the World is described as well-written, fast-paced, and engaging, with a richly detailed world that immerses readers into the story. The book sets the bar high for the rest of the series, delivering a stirring tale of small-town folk who find themselves embroiled in a frightening scenario beyond their wildest imaginations. Despite some comparisons to other fantasy stories, The Eye of the World is praised for being the beginning of a unique series that offers a fresh take on the epic fantasy genre.
The palace still shook occasionally as the earth rumbled in memory, groaned as if it would deny what had happened. Bars of sunlight cast through rents in the walls made motes of dust glitter where the... - #2
Save:The Black Company is a gritty military fantasy novel that follows the exploits of a mercenary band in service to a powerful sorceress known as the Lady. The story is narrated from the perspective of Croaker, the company's physician and annalist, providing a unique viewpoint of the conflicts between the Lady and the rebels who oppose her. The book delves into themes of loyalty, survival, and the blurred lines between good and evil in a world where mercenaries must navigate treacherous alliances and deadly battles.
Lightning from a clear sky smote the Necropolitan Hill. One bolt struck the bronze plaque sealing the tomb of the forvalaka, obliterating half the spell of confinement. It rained stones. Statues bled.... - #3
Save:The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie is a dark fantasy novel that delves into a world filled with political intrigue, impending war, and morally ambiguous characters. Set in a medieval-like world, the story follows multiple characters such as Logen Ninefingers, Inquisitor Glokta, and Captain Luthar, each with their own unique perspectives and motivations. The plot weaves together their stories as they navigate through a world on the brink of change, with war looming and alliances shifting. Abercrombie's writing style is characterized by its gritty realism, grounded characters, and a focus on the inner thoughts and struggles of the protagonists.
Logen opened his eyes a crack. Light, blurry bright through leaves. This was death? Then why did it hurt so much? His whole left side was throbbing. He tried to take a proper breath, choked, coughed u... - #4
Save:'The Way of Kings' in 'The Stormlight Archive' series by Brandon Sanderson is an epic fantasy novel that introduces readers to a world filled with unique magic systems, intricate world-building, and deep character development. The plot revolves around multiple main characters, each with their own complex storylines that eventually intertwine. The magic system in the book is innovative and tied to gems that capture stormlight, which powers magical armor and various other elements in the world. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of slow-paced world-building and action-packed sequences that keep readers hooked throughout the 1000+ pages of the book.
“You’ve killed me. Bastards, you’ve killed me! While the sun is still hot, I die!” —Collected on the fifth day of the week Chach of the month Betab of the year 1171, ten seconds before death. Subject ... - #5
Save:In the first installment of The Farseer Trilogy, "Assassin's Apprentice," readers are introduced to FitzChivalry Farseer, the bastard son of a prince, who is raised in a dangerous position where there are people who want him dead. Swearing allegiance to his grandfather the king, Fitz becomes an apprentice to the royal assassin, navigating a world filled with courtly intrigue, political tensions, and the looming threat to his life. The book is praised for its in-depth story, intricate world-building, and fantastic character development, setting the stage for a tale full of twists and intrigue.
A history of the Six Duchies is of necessity a history of its ruling family, the Farseers. A complete telling would reach back beyond the founding of the First Duchy, and if such names were remembered... - #6
Save:"The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Kvothe, a young prodigy who becomes a famous minstrel, wizard, swordsman, and hero. The book features a dual narrative structure, with Kvothe recounting his past while living as an older man. The world-building is extensive and immersive, drawing readers into a vast and fantastical universe filled with mysterious spirits and powerful characters. The writing style is engaging and descriptive, capturing the reader's attention with lyrical prose and intricate details.
The plot of the book revolves around Kvothe's quest to uncover the truth behind his parents' murder and his journey to master the power of naming. As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a journey through Kvothe's life, filled with challenges, adventures, and moments of self-discovery. The book seamlessly weaves together elements of magic, travel, death, and storytelling, creating a compelling and intricate narrative that keeps readers captivated from beginning to end.
Old Cob was filling his role as storyteller and advice dispensary. The men at the bar sipped their drinks and listened. In the back room a young innkeeper stood out of sight behind the door, smiling a... - #7
Save:"The Shadow of the Torturer" by Gene Wolfe follows Severian, a young apprentice torturer with the burden of total recall, as he navigates a vivid and haunting alternative world. The book immerses readers in a masterfully crafted setting with detailed descriptions, but some find the plot dour and the pacing meandering, leading to mixed feelings about the protagonist and the overall story.
Severian's journey is filled with mysterious encounters, cryptic dream sequences, and a slow revelation of the world's setting. The narrative explores themes of memory, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and dreams, creating a challenging yet rewarding reading experience for those who appreciate intricate storytelling and thought-provoking allegories.
It is possible I already had some presentiment of my future. The locked and rusted gate that stood before us, with wisps of river fog threading its spikes like the mountain paths, remains in my mind n... - #8
Save:The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams is the first book in the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy, following the story of Simon, a kitchen boy who becomes entangled in a world of ancient evil, mysterious groups, and royal conspiracies. The book is praised for its creative storytelling, character development, and intricate world-building, setting the stage for an epic fantasy series filled with rich details and complex characters.
ON THIS day of days there was an unfamiliar stirring deep inside the dozing heart of the Hayholt, in the castle's bewildering warren of quiet passages and overgrown, ivy-choked courtyards, in the monk... - #9
Save:"A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin is a captivating epic fantasy novel that introduces readers to the intricate world of Westeros filled with politics, betrayal, and power struggles among noble families. The book follows multiple characters, each with their own perspective, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The plot is rich with medieval elements and compelling storylines that keep readers engaged from start to finish.
The writing style of George R.R. Martin in "A Game of Thrones" is described as tightly crafted prose that vividly brings the world of Westeros to life. The narrative is filled with power, emphasis, and forethought, allowing the story to unfold seamlessly through the eyes of various characters. The book's depth in character development and sensitivity to emotions set it apart from other fantasy novels, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.
The morning had dawned clear and cold, with a crispness that hinted at the end of summer. They set forth at daybreak to see a man beheaded, twenty in all, and Bran rode among them, nervous with excite... - #10
Save:The Lies of Locke Lamora is an epic fantasy novel that follows the adventures of Locke Lamora and his band of thieves, the Gentlemen Bastards, in the city of Camorr. The plot twists and turns with surprises at every corner, leading to an edge-of-your-seat experience for readers. The book seamlessly combines elements of crime heist fiction with a flawlessly executed fantasy setting, creating a unique and engaging story that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
LOCKE LAMORA’S RULE of thumb was this: a good confidence game took three months to plan, three weeks to rehearse, and three seconds to win or lose the victim’s trust forever. This time around, he plan...
