Books Like...
'Paladin of Souls' by Lois McMaster Bujold is the second novel in the Chalion series following Royina Ista's journey. Ista, a middle-aged widow, sets off on a pilgrimage to escape her past and finds herself entangled in spiritual growth and unexpected adventures. The book delves into themes of spiritual awakening, unique theology, and the intricate relationships between characters and gods in the world of Chalion. Bujold weaves a complex plot involving demons, love, and self-discovery, showcasing her talent for creating engaging characters and thought-provoking narratives.
The story in 'Paladin of Souls' is engaging and well-crafted, with a focus on character development and intriguing plot twists. Bujold's writing style is praised for its depth and originality, offering a refreshing take on fantasy storytelling. The book introduces readers to a strong female protagonist, Ista dy Chalion, who embarks on a journey of personal growth and redemption, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and divine intervention. Overall, 'Paladin of Souls' is a compelling tale of self-discovery, adventure, and the complexities of faith and destiny.
If you liked Paladin of Souls, here are the top 100 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: World of the Five Gods)
- #1
Save:Set in the world of 'The Curse of Chalion' series, 'Penric's Demon' follows the story of Penric, a young lordling who acquires a demon from a dying sorceress on his way to his betrothal. The book explores Penric's journey of understanding and adapting to his new situation, along with the dynamics between him and the demon named Desdemona. The writing style is praised for its depiction of Penric's character development, divine meddling, and the nuances of demon possession in a fantasy setting.
The morning light sloped across the meadows, breathing pale green into the interlaced branches of the woods beyond, picking out shy pink and white blossoms here and there among the new leaves. The spr... - #2
Save:The Ninth Rain is a fantasy novel that introduces readers to a unique world filled with mysteries and secrets. The story follows a group of characters with different points of view as they navigate through a world-changing event that leads to the unraveling of hidden truths. The plot is filled with suspense, drama, and intriguing twists that escalate towards a gripping climax. The writing style seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, science fiction, horror, and mystery, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience.
Tormalin shifted the pack on his back and adjusted his sword belt. He could hear, quite clearly, the sound of a carriage approaching him from behind, but for now he was content to ignore it and the in... - #3
Save:In "City of Stairs," author Robert Jackson Bennett crafts a fantasy novel set in the City of Bulikov, a former Divine City now under the power of Saypur. The story follows protagonist Shara as she investigates the murder of her friend, leading her to uncover a greater mystery involving gods, miracles, and political intrigue. The world-building is phenomenal, with well-paced reveals, engaging characters like Shara and Sigrud, and a plot that seamlessly weaves in elements of mystery and action. The writing style is described as detailed, engrossing, and with a touch of subtle humor, creating a vivid imagery that enhances the reading experience.
I have never met a person who possessed a privilege who did not exercise that privilege to the fullest extent that they possibly could. Say what you like of a belief, of a party, of a finance system, ... - #4
Save:'Beguilement' by Lois McMaster Bujold is the first installment in 'The Sharing Knife' fantasy series. It follows the unconventional romance between Fawn, a farmer girl, and Dag, a Lakewalker patroller, set in a world where people are divided into farmers and Lakewalkers who protect the land from magical creatures called malices. The story delves into their forbidden love, adventures, and struggles against the backdrop of a richly imagined fantasy world with elements of romance and magic. The writing style is described as efficient, with a focus on character development and world-building, creating an engaging and optimistic coming-of-age story.
Fawn came to the well-house a little before noon. More than a farmstead, less than an inn, it sat close to the straight road she’d been trudging down for two days. The farmyard lay open to travelers, ... - #5
Save:In "Wheel of the Infinite" by Martha Wells, an exiled priestess named Maskelle is summoned back to her birth city to investigate the destruction of the Wheel of the Infinite, a sand model of the world that is recreated annually. Alongside a barbarian swordsman named Rian, Maskelle must navigate court intrigues, battle a demon puppet, and confront her past mistakes. The book is described as a stand-alone fantasy novel with vivid and imaginative world-building, alternating between the perspectives of Maskelle and Rian. The writing style is praised for sidestepping clichéd plots and melodramatic moments while featuring a powerful and older female lead.
She stood on a little hill, surrounded by the heavy jungle that lined either side of the river of mud that had once been the road, and watched the wagons crawl painfully by. They were wooden and brigh... - #6
Save:'The Goblin Emperor' by Katherine Addison follows the story of Maia, the overlooked and despised half-goblin son of the emperor, who unexpectedly becomes the emperor after a tragic accident claims the lives of his father and brothers. Thrust into a world of court intrigue and political maneuvering, Maia must navigate his new role as emperor, facing challenges of betrayal, loneliness, and the complexities of ruling a kingdom. The writing style is described as character-driven, with a focus on interpersonal tensions, political negotiations, and a subtle touch of fantasy elements to explain cultural differences.
“Get thy clothes on.” Setheris shoved yesterday’s clothes at him. Maia dropped them, fumbling with the strings of his nightshirt, and Setheris hissed with exasperation as he bent to pick them up. “A m... - #7
Save:The Copper Promise is a fantasy novel that follows the adventures of an odd trio - Wydrin, a cheeky mercenary known as The Copper Cat, Sebastian, a former knight, and Lord Frith, seeking revenge after his family was murdered. Together, they unleash a dragon god of destruction and find themselves in a quest to save the world. The book is described as a fast-paced and engaging read, filled with magic, adventure, and humor, with characters overcoming personal challenges while facing a world-threatening danger.
All the other cells in the dungeon stank of fear, but not this one. Lord Frith’s last surviving son was simply too proud to be afraid. Even now, as Yellow-Eyed Rin laid out his instruments on the bloo... - #8
Save:'Barrayar' in the 'Vorkosigan Saga' by Lois McMaster Bujold follows the story of Cordelia Vorkosigan's marriage to Aral Vorkosigan and their struggles on the planet Barrayar. Cordelia, a transplant from a liberal society, navigates the traditionalist world of Barrayar as the wife of the planet's regent. The narrative delves into political power dynamics, assassination attempts, and a large-scale coup, portraying a mix of political and military drama. The characters in the book face absurdly horrible problems and deal with them in very human ways, striking a balance between bantering charm and deep thoughts amid fast-paced action.
In 'Barrayar,' Cordelia and Aral are not separated by loyalty to their country but are married and settled on Barrayar. Aral grapples with the weight of responsibility as the highest authority, while Cordelia fiercely protects her baby, putting her at odds with Aral's family and the nobility of Barrayar. explores themes of responsibility, guilt, and the challenges of doing the right thing in a world that can be ruthless and unforgiving, showcasing the characters' complexities and struggles within a gripping narrative.
I am afraid. Cordelia's hand pushed aside the drape in the third-floor parlor window of Vorkosigan House. She stared down into the sunlit street below. A long silver groundcar was pulling into the hal...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Vorkosigan Saga ) - #9
Save:In "Remnant Population" by Elizabeth Moon, the story follows Ofelia, an elderly woman who decides to stay behind when the colony is evacuated from a newly settled planet. Living alone, she enjoys her solitude until she discovers the existence of indigenous life forms on the planet. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and first contact as Ofelia navigates this new and unexpected situation. The writing style is praised for its character-driven narrative, focusing on Ofelia's journey and her interactions with the alien species.
Between her toes the damp earth felt cool, but already sweat crept between the roots of her hair. It would be hotter today than yesterday, and by noon the lovely spice-scented red flowers of the dayvi... - #10
Save:The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow is a captivating tale of a young girl named January Scholar who discovers a book that opens doors to new worlds, revealing hidden truths about herself and her past. The novel weaves together elements of magical realism, adventure, and danger as January navigates through portals to other worlds while uncovering secrets about her family and her destiny. The story is rich in detail, featuring complex characters, intertwined narratives, and a writing style that immerses readers in a world filled with mystery and wonder.
When I was seven, I found a door. I suspect I should capitalize that word, so you understand I’m not talking about your garden- or common-variety door that leads reliably to a white-tiled kitchen or a...
