Books Like...

The Hedge Knight is a prequel story to the Game of Thrones series, following the adventures of a hedge knight named Dunk and his squire Egg. The story is set in the world of Westeros, a century before the events in A Song of Ice and Fire, and revolves around Dunk entering a tournament, making friends and enemies, and discovering the complexities of the medieval world. The writing style is described as gritty, brutal, and balanced with vibrant artwork in the graphic novel adaptation.

'Last Wish' by Helen Harper is the final installment in the 'Highland Magic' series, where Integrity Adair, a pacifist with a knack for humor and thievery, navigates a world filled with demons, intrigue, and magical beings. The book follows Integrity as she faces the threat of the Steward Aifric Moncrieffe, deals with the complexities of her relationships, and strives to save Scotland despite the prophecies working against her. With twists, humor, and a touch of romance, 'Last Wish' ties up loose ends and delivers a satisfying conclusion to Integrity's story.

The writing style in 'Last Wish' is praised for its ability to balance humor, drama, and action seamlessly. Readers appreciate the character development, particularly Integrity's unwavering morals and the evolution of relationships throughout the series. The plot unfolds with unexpected twists, keeping readers engaged until the satisfying ending.

Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection by Brandon Sanderson is a carefully crafted collection of short stories and novellas set within the expansive Cosmere universe. This book explores six unique worlds, featuring characters and plots that link back to his larger works, such as Mistborn and the Stormlight Archive. While some stories can stand alone, readers familiar with Sanderson's previous novels will appreciate the depth and connections throughout the collection. Notably, stories like "The Emperor's Soul" and the new novella "Edgedancer" are highlights, providing insights into beloved characters and settings, while others, like "Mistborn Secret History," enhance understanding of pivotal events in his larger narratives.

Sanderson's writing style shines through with his engaging and imaginative storytelling. Each tale is accompanied by a prologue that sheds light on his inspirations and intentions, adding a unique layer of enjoyment. The collection is lavishly illustrated and includes star maps for each system, enhancing the visualization of the diverse worlds. It's generally best suited for die-hard Sanderson fans who have already explored the Cosmere, but it serves as an excellent reference for understanding the interconnected nature of his work. With its rich tapestry of storytelling, Arcanum Unbounded is a must-read for avid fans of fantasy literature.

'The Stolen Child' by Keith Donohue is a dark and melancholy novel that explores the story of two changelings - one a human child who becomes a changeling and the other a changeling who transforms back into a human. The book delves into themes of identity, memory, and the loneliness experienced by both characters as they grapple with their past and present realities. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of the two characters, providing a unique insight into their struggles and experiences.

The author, Keith Donohue, weaves a compelling tale based on the changeling myth, drawing inspiration from folklore and fairy tales. The story is intricately crafted, exploring the emotional depth of the characters and the evolving dynamics between humans and faeries. Donohue's writing style is subtle and evocative, gradually revealing key points that leave a lasting impact on the reader. The book offers a fresh take on old legends, making readers ponder on the mysteries of the past and the complexities of human nature.

The Seventh Bride by T. Kingfisher is a dark and eerie retelling of the Bluebeard fairy tale, featuring a miller's daughter, Rhea, who is forced to marry a mysterious sorcerer lord. As Rhea navigates the sorcerer's mansion filled with strange and sinister characters, she must complete impossible tasks to avoid the same fate as his previous wives. The book blends elements of horror, fantasy, and fairy tale, creating a captivating story that explores themes of courage, friendship, and the fight against evil. The writing style is described as imaginative, with a good mix of pragmatism and invention, creating a unique and enthralling atmosphere throughout the book.

'Snow, Glass, Apples' by Neil Gaiman is a dark retelling of the classic fairy tale Snow White, narrated from the perspective of the wicked stepmother. The story takes a twisted turn, exploring themes of fear, dread, and horror through stunning artwork and a gripping narrative style that keeps readers engaged and haunted long after finishing the book.

'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' is a collection of three novellas set in the Westeros universe, 100 years before the events in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series. The stories follow the adventures of Sir Duncan the Tall, an impoverished hedge knight, and his squire Egg, who would later become King Aegon. The novellas provide backstory for the great houses of Westeros, featuring interesting and complicated characters, twisty politics, dragons, and battles. The main characters, Dunk and Egg, form a charming duo as they wander the Seven Kingdoms, having adventures and mishaps along the way.

The book offers a lighter and more fun tone compared to 'A Song of Ice and Fire', with a focus on the relationship between Dunk and Egg, a humble hedge knight and a talkative squire who is the heir to the Targaryen throne. The stories are entertaining and full of humor, providing a refreshing break from the darker themes of the main series. The illustrations by Gary Gianni add depth to the storytelling, reminiscent of Golden Age illustrators like Howard Pyle and NC Wyeth, enhancing the reader's immersion into the world of Westeros.

'The Phoenix on the Sword' in the series 'Conan the Barbarian' by Robert E. Howard is a collection of short stories that follow the adventures of Conan, a barbarian who rises from an impoverished orphan to become a king after numerous thrilling escapades. The stories are a mix of shameless power fantasy, sword and sorcery, and cosmic horror, set in a primal and old world filled with supernatural elements, creepy locations, and ancient temples. The writing style of Howard is described as raw, gritty, and electric, with a focus on action-packed narratives and colorful characters that captivate readers.

'Mythago Wood' by Robert Holdstock is a fantasy novel that delves into the mysteries of Ryhope Wood, an ancient forest with the power to bring forth mythagos - beings from myths and legends created by human consciousness. The story follows Steven Huxley as he navigates the wood's enchantments and uncovers family secrets while encountering a mix of mythic figures like Celtic princesses, Norse warriors, and other legendary beings. The narrative weaves elements of British folklore, Jungian archetypes, and the exploration of the collective unconscious, creating a rich and immersive world that blurs the lines between reality and myth.

The book is narrated in a first-person style, providing a personal and introspective view of Steven's journey as he navigates the complexities of Ryhope Wood and its inhabitants. The plot unfolds post-World War II in rural England, blending themes of love, family dynamics, and the interplay between ancient myths and contemporary life. Holdstock's writing style is praised for its atmospheric and evocative descriptions, drawing readers into a world where the boundaries between imagination and reality blur, offering a unique and captivating reading experience.

'A Good Running Away' is part of the Misplaced Mercenaries series and presents a lighthearted take on fantasy, infused with humor and a touch of romance. The story follows two former mercenaries, Sarah and Keane, who are attempting to escape their dangerous past and the mercenary company they wish to leave behind. As they navigate their way through a series of misadventures, including robbing their old company blind, the plot unfolds with a mix of comedy and a chase narrative that keeps readers engaged. The writing style is described as breezy and easy to read, with chapters that are conveniently short, making it accessible for readers with limited time.

The characters are well-developed, showcasing a strong friendship between the leads, while also introducing morally gray elements and humorous interactions. The book balances darker themes with comedic moments, allowing for a unique blend of fantasy and humor. The author skillfully avoids excessive exposition, instead letting the story flow naturally, which enhances the reader's experience as they follow the protagonists through their chaotic journey.