Books Like...

The Phoenix Guards by Steven Brust is a clever homage to The Three Musketeers set in the world of Dragaera, focusing on a group of friends who join the Phoenix Guards and embark on adventures filled with intrigue, danger, and duels. The book is narrated in a style reminiscent of eighteenth-century novels, with a mix of old-fashioned language and convoluted plotlines that add to the charm and wit of the story. Through the eyes of the historian Paarfi, readers are taken on a journey through a richly detailed world where honor, politics, and friendship collide in a playful and engaging manner.

'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.

The Count of Monte Cristo is a classic tale of revenge and redemption set against the backdrop of post-Napoleonic France. The story follows Edmond Dantes, a young sailor who is falsely accused of treason and imprisoned. After learning about a hidden treasure, Dantes escapes from prison and embarks on a journey of revenge against those who wronged him. The plot is filled with dramatic twists and turns, intricate subplots, and deep character development, making it a compelling and engaging read. The writing style of Alexandre Dumas is praised for its vivid descriptions, detailed characterizations, and exploration of themes such as love, honor, despair, and power.

The Misenchanted Sword by Lawrence Watt Evans is a refreshing change from the usual fantasy tropes. The main character is intelligent and decent, stuck in a war that's gone on for a long time. The story focuses on a character and how the character is changed by magic and war, rather than the common fantasy plot of saving the world and defeating an overpowering enemy. The book is described as short and to the point, with a main character who is an ordinary person with some small talent for magic and a seriously flawed sword, making it more interesting than typical fantasy novels.

In "Bridge of Birds," the author Barry Hughart weaves a tale set in ancient China, following the journey of a young man named Number Ten Ox and the sage Li Kao. The duo embarks on a quest to find the Great Root of Power to cure the children of Ku Fu village, encountering a mix of mythology, mystery, and humor along the way. The book is described as a blend of folk tale, fantasy, and comedy, with elements of ghosts, monsters, puzzles, and adventures intertwined in a quest that unfolds through various cities and folklore segments.

Fifty-One Tales by Lord Dunsany is a collection of short stories and prose pieces that delve into fantasy, mythology, and philosophical themes. The tales are often very short, atmospheric, and quirky, with some being twists on myths or fables. The writing style is described as poetic and literary, with a focus on irony, satire, humor, and sheer poetry packed into concise narratives.

A Dreamer's Tales by Lord Dunsany is a collection of enchanting and whimsical stories that transport readers to mysterious and dreamlike realms. The writing style is described as poetic and descriptive, with each tale painting a unique and vivid picture filled with melancholic whimsy. The stories often involve magical journeys towards uncertain endings, reminiscent of the works of H.P. Lovecraft, and are praised for their dreamy, timeless, and mythic feel.

The Book of Wonder by Lord Dunsany is a collection of short stories that provide a unique and imaginative take on fantasy. The stories focus more on setting and imagery rather than plot and character development, creating a dreamlike and wondrous atmosphere. The tales are described as allegorical, nonsensically sensible snippets of a different world, reminiscent of dark nursery rhymes with a logical illogic that sets them apart from traditional fantasy narratives.

The God Box by Barry B. Longyear is a unique and original fantasy novel that follows the protagonist, Korvas, a likable rug merchant on a quest that is more about the journey to the heart than a physical adventure. The story is filled with elements of adventure, humor, and thought-provoking themes, revolving around the concept of the god box, where one can ask for what they need and give away what they don't want. The narrative style, presented in first person by Korvas himself, is engaging, funny, and deeply touching, making the book a refreshing and vivid read in the fantasy genre.

The Ladies of Mandrigyn is a fantasy novel where a group of women, after their city is conquered by an evil wizard enslaving most of the men, take matters into their own hands by kidnapping a famous mercenary, Sun Wolf, to train them in combat. As they prepare to fight back, relationships develop, strategies are formed, and the power of women emerges as a key force in the story. The plot weaves together elements of warfare, romance, and societal change, offering a fresh take on traditional fantasy tropes.