Books Like...
If you liked Dreams of Steel, here are the top 3 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: The Black Company)
- #1
A gritty, imaginative dark fantasy with a complex heroine and mature themes - riveting for some, but the tough content and uneven writing won’t work for everyone.
'Calixta: The Vanquishers of Alhambra' by Omayra Velez is a high fantasy novel that follows the story of Calixta, a top-tier prostitute who discovers she is destined to be a Vanquisher, a warrior fighting evil. The book is set in a complex fantasy world with a mix of modern society elements and magical creatures like demons and fairies. Calixta's journey is filled with dark themes such as human trafficking, rape, and murder, as she navigates a society with a strict caste system and bureaucratic government while battling evil forces.
The plot of the book revolves around the battle between good and evil, with Calixta evolving from a successful brothel owner to a warrior fighting for virtue. The writing style of the author is described as high-paced, engaging, and filled with twists and turns that keep the readers focused and eager to know what happens next.
September 2019•371 pages - #2
A gritty, character-first fantasy with sharp wit, memorable antiheroes, and brutal battles - a slow burn start, but worth it if you value clever writing and layered personalities over epic plot fireworks.
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...2006•555 pages - #3
Dark, twisty, and atmospheric, "Ninth House" is a gripping blend of murder mystery and magical academia - but its heavy themes and dense world-building aren’t for the faint of heart. Perfect for fans of edgy fantasy looking for something bold and adult.
In 'Ninth House' by Leigh Bardugo, the story revolves around Galaxy Alex Stern, a survivor dealing with a traumatic past who is recruited to oversee the mystical activities of the secret societies at Yale. As part of House Leathe, the ninth house, Alex becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets, disappearances, and murder on campus. The book delves into themes of trauma, magic, violence, and the power dynamics within the elite circles of Yale, creating a world where the supernatural intertwines with the everyday struggles of its characters. The writing style is described as dark, compelling, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the atmospheric setting of Yale University.
By the time Alex managed to get the blood out of her good wool coat, it was too warm to wear it. Spring had come on grudgingly; pale blue mornings failed to deepen, turning instead to moist, sullen af...October 2019•491 pages




