Books Like...
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.
If you liked Wheel of the Infinite, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:City of Bones by Martha Wells is a standalone fantasy novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where water is scarce and relics from the ancient civilization are sought after for their power. The story follows Khat, a relic trader, who gets entangled in a dangerous quest for powerful artifacts alongside an intriguing cast of characters. The writing style is described as confident and clear, with vivid descriptions of the city's complex social structure and the treacherous desert landscape outside its walls.
The day was long, and Khat was bored with bargaining. He leaned on one pole of the awning and looked out into the dusty street, ignoring Arnot's wife, who was examining their find as if she had never ... - #2
Save:Magic is Unseen, hidden from mundanes by the laws of the magical community, which is currently undergoing a Turning, where leadership of the community may change from one House to another. Into this uncertainty comes a woman who's escaped from the House of Shadows, where sacrifices go for their magic to be painfully drained and used by others. The writing was engrossing, and beautiful, and I loved how Kat Howard created her characters and world. The premise of this book - magic in New York City and a regularly scheduled cycle of magic duels to elect the ruling House - is wonderful and well done. The Unseen World is ruled by magical houses, such as House Merlin and House Prospero, where competitions to demonstrate magical prowess eventually turn deadly.
The young woman cut through the crowded New York sidewalk like a knife. Tall in her red-soled stilettos, black clothing that clung to her like smoke, red-tipped black hair sharp and angular around her... - #3
Save:Ombria in Shadow by Patricia A. McKillip is a beautifully written fantasy novel set in a kingdom facing turmoil after the death of the prince. The story follows a cast of characters including a young prince, a plotting great aunt, a royal bastard, a mysterious sorceress, and her assistant, all intertwined in political maneuverings and secrets. The narrative explores the mystery of Ombria, a city with a shadowy existence, blending elements of power seeking, magic, ghosts, and political intrigue. McKillip's writing style is described as poetic, lush, and detailed, with a focus on character development and rich storytelling.
While the ruler of the ancient city of Ombria lay dying, his mistress, frozen out of the room by the black stare of Domina Pearl, drifted like a bird on a wave until she bumped through Kyel Greve’s un... - #4
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... - #5
Save:'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.
I STA LEANED FORWARD BETWEEN THE CRENELLATIONS ATOP THE gate tower, the stone gritty beneath her pale hands, and watched in numb exhaustion as the final mourning party cleared the castle gate below. T...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series World of the Five Gods ) - #6
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... - #7
Save:'The Raven Tower' by Ann Leckie is a unique fantasy novel that delves into the relationship between gods and humans, exploring the consequences of a world where gods' words hold immense power. The story follows a murder mystery in a fantasy setting, narrated by an ageless god fixed in a stone, and a quiet soldier named Eolo who sets out to solve the mystery of a missing leader and a deceased god, all while navigating complex political and supernatural dynamics. The writing style of the book is described as original, inventive, and thought-provoking, with a second-person narration that offers a fresh perspective on the fantasy genre.
I first saw you when you rode out of the forest, past the cluster of tall, bulge-eyed offering stakes that mark the edges of the forest, your horse at a walk. You rode beside Mawat, himself a familiar... - #8
Save:'Redemption in Indigo' by Karen Lord is a unique fairy tale that takes inspiration from Senegalese folklore but adds a Caribbean twist. The story follows Paama, a strong female protagonist, who is given the Chaos Stick and must navigate a world filled with spirit creatures, quest, redemption, and humor. The book is praised for its engaging writing style, the use of African-inspired mythology, and the refreshing departure from typical European-centered fantasy narratives.
There are men of violence. There are men who drink. And then there was Ansige, a man with a vice so pathetic as to be laughable. He ate; he lived for his belly. No one would believe that a woman could... - #9
Save:'Magic for Liars' by Sarah Gailey is a murder mystery novel set in a school for mages, where the protagonist, Ivy Gamble, a non-magical private investigator, is called to solve a murder that has occurred at the school where her magical twin sister teaches. The story explores themes of jealousy, family dynamics, and self-discovery as Ivy navigates through the magical world to uncover the truth behind the murder. Gailey's writing style combines elements of mystery, fantasy, and character-driven narrative to create a unique and engaging story that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships within a magical setting.
The book is praised for its originality, well-written character development, and unexpected plot twists that keep the readers engaged. Gailey's storytelling weaves together elements of magic, mystery, and family dynamics, offering a fresh perspective on the high school for wizards trope. The narrative challenges traditional magical school tropes by focusing on realistic teenage behavior and social structures, making the magical world feel more relatable and authentic to readers.
IT MIGHT TAKE A LITTLE while to get there, but I’ll tell you everything, and I’ll tell you the truth. As best I can. I used to lie, but when I tell you the story, you’ll understand why I had to lie. Y... - #10
Save:'Deathless' by Catherynne M. Valente is a novel that intricately weaves together Russian folklore with the historical backdrop of pre and post-revolutionary Russia. The story follows Marya Morevna, the human bride of Koshchei the Deathless, as she navigates a world filled with magical elements such as firebirds, Baba Yaga, and house spirits, all set against the grim realities of the Soviet era. Valente's writing style is described as seductive, mesmerizing, and poetic, drawing readers into a dark and enchanting narrative that delves into themes of love, power, and the duality of life and death.
In a city by the sea which was once called St. Petersburg, then Petrograd, then Leningrad, then, much later, St. Petersburg again, there stood a long, thin house on a long, thin street. By a long, thi...
