Books Like...

'Brimstone Angels' by Erin M. Evans follows the story of Farideh and Havilar, twin tieflings with devilish heritage, and their dragonborn foster father, Mehen. The plot revolves around Farideh making a pact with the manipulative devil Lorcan, leading to a series of events that take them on a journey filled with magic, adventure, and epic battles. The author, Erin M. Evans, expertly weaves intricate plots, deep character development, and compelling storylines that bring the world of Faerun to life with enriching detail and depth. The fastidious writing style allows the characters to drive the story, creating a captivating and entertaining read set in the Forgotten Realms.

Twelve Kings in Sharakhai is a fantasy novel set in a desert city ruled by immortal kings. The story follows Ceda, a pit fighter seeking revenge against the Twelve Kings who killed her mother. As Ceda navigates the complexities of Sharakhai, uncovering mysteries and forming alliances, readers are taken on a journey filled with magic, betrayal, and political intrigue. The writing style of the book is described as intricate, rich with history and legends, and featuring a well-developed desert setting that sets it apart from traditional European-inspired fantasy.

A Hero Born by Jin Yong is an epic martial arts adventure set in ancient China, filled with intricate fight scenes and poetic martial arts moves. The story follows a young hero's journey through China and into nomadic lands, reminiscent of classic kung fu movies, while also being compared to grand literary works like The Three Musketeers. The book is part of a larger series that delves into the complex lore of Chinese history, combining elements of historical fiction, Western action, and superhero genres with a touch of quiet grace in its language.

King's Dragon, the first book in the Crown of Stars series by Kate Elliott, follows the intertwined fates of characters like Alain, Liath, and Sanglant in a fantasy world reminiscent of historical Europe but with added elements of magic and different fantasy races. The plot unfolds slowly, focusing on character development and world-building, with strong female characters and a mix of familiar fantasy tropes woven into a unique setting. The story is set in a kingdom torn by war, where the main characters, each with their own struggles and destinies, navigate through political intrigue, magic, and personal growth.

The Beast Player by Nahoko Uehashi is a fantasy tale set in a world where humans train beasts for battle, unaware of the harm caused to these animals. The story follows Erin, an orphan with a unique ability to communicate with these beasts, as she navigates the murky waters of state politics and learns to care for Royal Beasts while questioning the morals of their captivity. The writing style is described as enthralling, brilliantly written, and well translated, with themes of compassion, nature, and the balance between humanity and nature reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli movie.

'The Darkness That Comes Before' by R. Scott Bakker is a departure from ordinary fantasy literature, focusing on the intrigue surrounding a vast crusade with philosophical and introspective characters. The book delves into the perspectives, philosophies, egos, and pieties of key figures involved in the holy war, with occasional gory assassinations and sorceries. The narrative unfolds slowly, with complex character introductions and a focus on the build-up to a Holy War, leading to an absorbing and intriguing read that sets the stage for events to come.

The book presents a dark and gritty fantasy world with detailed character introductions, political drama, and a deep sense of history. It features a manageable cast of characters, each with shades of gray, competing factions, and a sense of impending apocalyptic force. The writing style is dense, philosophical, and well-crafted, providing readers with a challenging yet rewarding reading experience that leaves them eager to delve into the subsequent books in the series.

The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams is the first book in the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy, following the story of Simon, a kitchen boy who becomes entangled in a world of ancient evil, mysterious groups, and royal conspiracies. The book is praised for its creative storytelling, character development, and intricate world-building, setting the stage for an epic fantasy series filled with rich details and complex characters.

'Nine Princes in Amber' by Roger Zelazny follows the story of Prince Corwin who wakes up in a hospital with amnesia, slowly piecing together his identity as a member of a powerful family controlling the prime reality of Amber. As he competes with his siblings for the throne, political intrigue and alliances shape the narrative, set against a backdrop of shadow-walking between realities. Zelazny's world-building skills shine through, creating an original premise of parallel universes and a captivating blend of fantasy and suspense. The plot unfolds with twists, character development, and an engaging narrative that keeps readers absorbed throughout the quick-paced story.

The writing style of 'Nine Princes in Amber' is described as imaginative, compelling, and concise, weaving depth and history into a relatively short book of 175 pages. Despite its brevity, Zelazny's storytelling prowess shines through, creating a world that feels immersive and rich in detail. The narrative unfolds smoothly, blending elements of mystery, fantasy, and political intrigue to craft a gripping tale that leaves readers eager to delve deeper into the subsequent books in the series.

'The Power of the Dog' by Don Winslow is a dark and gripping novel that delves into the morally conflicted world of the American Drug War, specifically focusing on the drug trade between Mexico and the United States. The book spans over several decades, following the rise of brutal Mexican drug lords, the pursuit by dedicated DEA agents, and the intertwining of various criminal elements including the Mafia, CIA, and corrupt government officials. The writing style is described as compelling, gripping, and expertly crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its themes of fate, vengeance, power, and the consequences of individual decisions.

Winslow's novel is praised for its epic sweep through the complexities of the drug trade, delivering a heart-thumping page-turner that resonates long after the final page. The characters created by Winslow are lauded for their depth and realism, with readers finding themselves emotionally invested in their journeys. The book skillfully weaves together history and crime fiction, offering a raw and violent portrayal of the Mexican drug cartels and the futile war on drugs, while also shedding light on the political and economic aspects of the conflict.

The Black Company is a gritty military fantasy novel that follows the exploits of a mercenary band in service to a powerful sorceress known as the Lady. The story is narrated from the perspective of Croaker, the company's physician and annalist, providing a unique viewpoint of the conflicts between the Lady and the rebels who oppose her. The book delves into themes of loyalty, survival, and the blurred lines between good and evil in a world where mercenaries must navigate treacherous alliances and deadly battles.