Books Like...
The Swordbearer by Glen Cook follows the story of Gathrid, a young boy who stumbles upon a magical soul-eating sword and becomes entangled in a complex game between supernatural powers. The plot is fast-moving, with elements of ancient sorcery, manipulative gods, and warring kingdoms spanning centuries. Cook's writing style in this book is described as straightforward, with a mix of cynical world-weary observations and a focus on the protagonist's journey as he navigates his newfound destiny.
If you liked The Swordbearer, here are the top 9 books to read next:
- #1
Save:In "Son of the Black Sword" by Larry Correia, the story follows Ashok Vadal, a senior Protector and Bearer of Angruvadal, an ancient sword made of magical black steel. The plot unfolds in a world where Protectors enforce an all-encompassing Law that segregates the populace into rigid castes, and the protagonist grapples with the complexities of his role and the truths hidden within his society. The book features well-developed characters, intricate world-building with Eastern influences, and a plot that surprises readers with twists and depth.
The familiar dream was always the same. He was on his knees, wiping a stone floor clean. The rag soaked up the red puddle, a mixture of soapy water and blood. When he wrung the tattered cloth out over... - #2
Save:In an alternate reality where magical abilities emerged in the 1800s, 'Hard Magic' by Larry Correia follows the story of Jake Sullivan, a former World War I hero turned private investigator with gravity-manipulating powers. Recruited by J. Edgar Hoover to combat magic-related crime, Jake finds himself entangled in a much larger conflict involving evil wizards, powerful magical abilities, and a battle against an unstoppable force. Set in the early 1900s with a blend of noir detective fiction, urban fantasy, and alternate history, the narrative unfolds with a mix of action-packed sequences, well-developed characters, and a unique magic system that intertwines with a world on the brink of chaos.
We now have over a thousand confirmed cases of individuals with these so-called magical abilities on the continent alone. The faculty has descended into a terrible uproar over the proper nomenclature ... - #3
Save:The Eternal Champion by Michael Moorcock follows the story of Erekos, a protagonist who is part hero and part antihero, making choices that often lead to tragedy in a world filled with complex themes of war, loyalty, love, and conflict. Erekos is summoned back from the dead to lead humanity in a battle against the Eldren, an alien race cohabiting their world. The book delves into the protagonist's predestined lives in Moorcock's multiverse, exploring the idea of war without respite and the internal struggles faced by Erekos as he questions his cause and the sides he is fighting for.
The writing style in The Eternal Champion is often critiqued for being simplistic, lacking in depth and character development. While the story moves quickly and presents intriguing themes, the prose fails to evoke strong emotions or stimulate the reader's imagination, leaving some feeling disappointed with the two-dimensional characters and narrative approach taken by Moorcock.
- #4
Save:'The Lightning-Struck Heart' by T.J. Klune is a humorous and over-the-top fantasy tale set in the world of Verania, where magic, fairies, unicorns, and giants coexist. The story follows the adventures of Sam of Wilds, a young, witty wizard's apprentice, along with his friends: Gary, a sassy gay unicorn, and Tiggy, a protective half giant. is filled with humor, campy elements, romantic pining, and a mix of absurdity and seriousness in its fantasy setting, creating a unique and entertaining narrative that keeps readers engaged.
The writing style of T.J. Klune in 'The Lightning-Struck Heart' is described as hilarious, mind-blowing, and extraordinary, with a perfect blend of humor, sexual tension, conflict, and heartbreak. The characters are vibrant and well-developed, the world-building is detailed, and the story is both solid and entertaining, offering a mix of angst, drama, and thought-out humor that resonates with readers. The audiobook version, narrated by Michael Lesley, is particularly praised for enhancing the story with a brilliant performance that brings the characters to life and adds depth to the overall experience.
“You see, back when I was a child, I always knew that I was different. That I was meant for greater things than what my father had planned for me.” Lartin looked out toward the cave entrance almost wi... - #5
Save: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.
The marsh stank, with a sharp, briny stench that seemed to fill Valder’s head. He stared out across the maze of tall grass and shallow water for a long moment and then reluctantly marched onward, into... - #6
Save:Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat follows the story of Will, a 16-year-old boy who witnesses his mother's murder and is told he must fight alongside the Stewards against the reborn Dark King. As Will navigates a world of magic and training for an upcoming battle, he uncovers unexpected twists and turns, challenging the traditional 'good vs evil' trope. The author's writing style is described as elegant and evocative, with intricate world-building and a narrative that unfolds with suspense, capturing the nuances of the characters' voices and making them feel distinct and authentic.
WILL’S FIRST GLIMPSE of London came before the sun rose, the forest of masts on the river jet-black silhouettes against a sky barely one shade lighter, joined by hoisting cranes, scaffolding, and ever... - #7
Save:In 'Empire of the Vampire' by Jay Kristoff, readers are introduced to Gabriel de Leon, a Silversaint who recounts his life to a vampire historian while being held captive. The story unfolds with Gabriel narrating his battles, love, betrayal, and quest to protect the Holy Grail, all while living in a world drowned in darkness where vampires roam freely and humans are constantly at war with them. The book is described as a dark fantasy with a ton of worldbuilding, compelling characters, and a fresh, interesting structuring device that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The narrative style in 'Empire of the Vampire' is bold, violent, and blunt, providing an ominous and immersive experience for readers. The story is filled with action, plot twists, and intricate worldbuilding, making it akin to a TV show playing in the reader's mind. Through Gabriel's tale, the book explores themes of faith, hope, blind faith, and understanding, all set in a world where vampires and humans coexist in a perpetual state of darkness, creating a gripping and complex storyline that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
“I’m going to make you scream, leech. I’m going to bleed you like a hog, stuff the best of you in a pipe for later, and then show you how much your immortality is truly worth.” He stared into the mons... - #8
Save:Prince of Thorns by Mark Lawrence is a dark fantasy novel that follows the journey of Prince Jorg, a young and ruthless protagonist seeking revenge in a post-apocalyptic medieval world. The story is narrated through the eyes of Jorg, a character described as a psychopath by some readers, who leads a band of outlaws on a bloody and violent quest for power and vengeance. The writing style is noted for its gritty and dark tone, with a fast-paced plot that delves into themes of brutality, survival, and the consequences of a shattered world.
I could see some of the lads exchanging coin on their bets. The Lich Road is as boring as a Sunday sermon. It runs straight and level. So straight it gets so as you’d kill for a left turn or a right t... - #9
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...
