Books Like...
In an alternate version of Europe, descendants of angels have created a unique society where their primary mandate in life is to love as thou wilt. Jacqueline Carey's writing style, while slightly wordy, is very lyrical, and the subject of sex is prominently dealt with both practically and philosophically in this society. The book follows Phedre's journey, a courtesan gifted with the ability to feel pleasure as pain, as she navigates political intrigue and her complex relationship with her protector, Joscelin.
If you liked Kushiel's Dart, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
In "Daughter of the Blood," Anne Bishop introduces readers to a dark and fantastical world where females are portrayed as the dominant sex. The story follows the child queen Jaenelle and her extraordinary powers, as well as characters like Daemon, Saetan, and other key figures in the realms of Terreille, Kaeleer, and Hell. The narrative weaves together themes of power, magic, and prophecy as the characters navigate a complex web of politics, intrigue, and betrayal to protect a young girl destined to bring balance to their world.
The book delves into the struggles and conflicts faced by the characters, exploring dark themes such as abuse, power dynamics, and manipulation. Through intricate world-building and character development, Anne Bishop crafts a compelling story that captivates readers with its rich detail, complex relationships, and the looming threat of darkness that threatens to consume the realms.
Lucivar Yaslana, the Eyrien half-breed, watched the guards drag the sobbing man to the boat. He felt no sympathy for the condemned man who had led the aborted slave revolt. In the Territory called Pru... - #2
'From Blood and Ash' by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a fantasy novel following the story of Poppy, the Maiden, who is chosen at birth for a mysterious role. The plot revolves around court politics, Poppy's day-to-day life, and the world of the Kingdom, filled with strife and dangerous creatures. As Poppy navigates her isolation and duties, she uncovers secrets about her heritage, the Ascension, and the ongoing conflict between different factions within the Kingdom. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on character development, world-building, and a slow-burn romance between Poppy and Hawke, the Royal Guard.
The book delves into themes of power, strength, and identity, as Poppy struggles with her restricted life as the Maiden while yearning for freedom and self-discovery. With a mix of fantasy politics, intriguing plot twists, and a strong female protagonist, 'From Blood and Ash' sets the stage for a complex and captivating series that explores the dynamics of love, power, and destiny in a high fantasy setting.
I looked up from my cards and across the crimson-painted surface to the three men sitting at the table. I’d chosen this spot for a reason. I’d…felt nothing from them as I drifted between the crowded t... - #3
In "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas, Feyre, a human, is thrust into the dangerous world of the Fae where she must navigate treacherous politics and dark magic. Bound to the High Lord of the Spring Court, Tamlin, Feyre embarks on a journey of love and sacrifice to save both the Fae and human realms. The book weaves a tale of intrigue, romance, and magic, set against a backdrop of curses, tests, and court drama, appealing to readers of fantasy romance with its unique twist on the Beauty and the Beast story.
Maas expertly crafts a world that is both grounded in familiar fairy tales yet entirely original and captivating. The story is action-packed, filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged, while the characters, particularly Feyre, are portrayed as flawed and relatable, making the narrative more immersive. The writing style, though at times criticized for being too descriptive or slow-paced, is praised for its ability to create a vivid and enchanting world that draws readers in.
I’d been monitoring the parameters of the thicket for an hour, and my vantage point in the crook of a tree branch had turned useless. The gusting wind blew thick flurries to sweep away my tracks, but ... - #4
'Daughter of the Forest' by Juliet Marillier is a retelling of the fairy tale 'The Six Swans' set in 12th century Ireland. The story follows Sorcha of Sevenwaters, the seventh child of a seventh son and the only daughter, as she embarks on a journey filled with family, faith, and a touch of magic. Sorcha must overcome arduous tasks and remain silent to save her cursed brothers, all while navigating complex relationships and battling against evil forces.
Three children lay on the rocks at the water’s edge. A dark-haired little girl. Two boys, slightly older. This image is caught forever in my memory, like some fragile creature preserved in amber. Myse... - #5
'Reign & Ruin' is a romantic fantasy novel set in a Middle Eastern-inspired world, where political intrigue, magic, and court maneuvering play central roles. The story follows Naime, the heir to the Tamar Sultanate, who must navigate treacherous political waters to save her kingdom from impending war by forming an alliance with the neighboring nation of Sarkum. Alongside her is Makram, a powerful death mage from Sarkum, who defies his own ruler to support Naime's cause. As they work together to balance power and magic, a forbidden romance blossoms between them, complicating their already dangerous mission. The book is praised for its intricate world-building, well-developed characters, and a blend of romance, magic, and political intrigue that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.
THE GALLERY THAT LED from the main palace to the Council Hall had never stretched so long. Perhaps, if the Wheel favored her, this was as close as Naime would ever come to understanding what it felt l... - #6
'The Priory of the Orange Tree' by Samantha Shannon is an immersive and expansive high fantasy novel that presents a world where women of diverse backgrounds take center stage, breaking away from traditional tropes. The book delves into a world without sexism, homophobia, and racism, while exploring themes of religious intolerance, political intrigue, and the balance of power. The story follows multiple characters as they navigate conflicting political currents and eventually unite to confront an ancient evil threatening their world.
The book offers a feminist reboot of Arthurian legend with LGBTQ representation and a focus on strong female characters. Despite some pacing issues and slow world-building, the novel weaves together a complex narrative with dragons, magic, and diverse cultures, creating a unique and engaging fantasy world that challenges traditional fantasy norms.
Every morning she kept the same routine. To be predictable was to be safe. First she went to the Master of the Posts, who confirmed he had no letters for her. Then she went to the gates and gazed out ... - #7
'The Bridge Kingdom' by Danielle L. Jensen is a fantasy novel set in a unique world where kingdoms vie for power by controlling a crucial bridge. The story follows Lara, raised by her father to be an assassin and tasked with destroying the kingdom of Ithicana. However, as Lara navigates deception, loyalty, and love, she begins to question her beliefs and alliances. The plot revolves around Lara's complex relationship with Aren, the King of Ithicana, and their journey from enemies to lovers amidst political intrigue and personal growth. The writing style is described as vivid, with clear descriptions that bring the fantasy world to life and evoke strong emotions in readers.
Lara rested her elbows on the low sandstone wall, her eyes fixed on the glowing sun descending over the distant mountain peaks, nothing between here and there but scorching sand dunes, scorpions, and ... - #8
In "Magic Bites" by Ilona Andrews, readers are introduced to Kate Daniels, a strong and tough mercenary living in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where magic and technology alternate in dominance. Kate's investigations lead her to battle psychotic creatures, navigate complex power dynamics between different supernatural factions, and uncover dark mysteries that threaten the fragile balance of her world. The writing style is described as dark and intense, with detailed world-building that seamlessly blends elements of magic and technology, creating a unique and captivating urban fantasy setting.
The plot follows Kate as she delves into a series of gruesome killings, facing necromancers, werewolves, vampires, and other mystical beings along the way. The story moves at a fast pace, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with thrilling action scenes and unexpected twists. Kate's character is praised for her strength, wit, and relatability, adding depth to the narrative as she navigates the challenges of her dangerous and unpredictable environment.
I SAT AT A TABLE IN MY SHADOWY KITCHEN, STARING down a bottle of Boone’s Farm Hard Lemonade, when a magic fluctuation hit. My wards shivered and died, leaving my home stripped of its defenses. The TV ... - #9
Kushiel's Scion by Jacqueline Carey is the beginning of a new trilogy set in the world of Terre D'Ange, following the story of Imriel de la Courcel, the son of the treacherous Melisande, who was adopted by Phèdre nó Delaunay. The book focuses on Imriel's journey of self-discovery and maturity as he navigates political intrigue, personal demons, and his lineage, leading him to foreign lands and new revelations about himself and his people. The narrative delves into themes of growing up, finding purpose, and dealing with the consequences of the past, all set against the lush and vivid backdrop of Carey's alternate magical Europe.
For a while, a long while, after our final return to Terre d’Ange, life was blissfully uneventful. Having had enough adventures to last me a lifetime, I was grateful for it. Whether in the City or at ... - #10
In "Paladin's Grace," readers are introduced to a world where a paladin, Stephen, and a perfumer, Grace, cross paths under dangerous circumstances and find themselves entangled in a web of murder, politics, and romance. Stephen, a former paladin of the deceased Saint of Steel, struggles with the fear of losing control again, while Grace, accused of murder, navigates her own past traumas. The story unfolds with elements of severed heads, golems, assassination attempts, and a rich cast of characters, all set in a world filled with humor, action, and intrigue.
The book is praised for its engaging writing style that blends humor, romance, and fantasy seamlessly. Readers find themselves captivated by the witty banter, relatable character issues, and the unique professions of the protagonists - a paladin and a perfumer - as they navigate a plot filled with mystery and danger.
The Saint of Steel had not been a major deity, but neither had He been entirely obscure. He had four temples, staffed with priests and paladins, and the bishop of His church sat on the council in Arch...