Fantasy fiction is a genre that captivates readers with its rich world-building, complex characters, and intricate plots. If you loved Robin Hobb’s Realm of the Elderlings series, you’re probably on the lookout for more epic tales that transport you to magical realms. Here are 20 books that will keep you enchanted and turning pages deep into the night.
Books Similar to Realm of the Elderlings
1. The Name of the Wind
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind follows the life of Kvothe, a magically gifted young man who grows up to become a legendary figure. This book is highly recommended for its lyrical prose and intricate storytelling. If you enjoy deep character development and a richly constructed world, this is a must-read.
2. Mistborn: The Final Empire
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn: The Final Empire introduces readers to a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night. The story follows Vin, a young street urchin who discovers she has magical abilities. This book is perfect for those who love clever magic systems and high-stakes heists.
3. The Way of Kings
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson is the first book in the Stormlight Archive series. It features a sprawling narrative with multiple viewpoints, focusing on characters like Kaladin, a slave with a mysterious past. The book is highly recommended for its epic scope and intricate world-building.
4. The Lies of Locke Lamora
Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora follows the adventures of a master thief and his band of con artists in the city of Camorr. Known for its witty dialogue and intricate plot, this book is a great pick for those who enjoy clever schemes and richly detailed settings.
5. The Blade Itself
Joe Abercrombie’s The Blade Itself is the first book in the First Law trilogy. It introduces readers to a brutal world filled with morally complex characters like Logen Ninefingers and Inquisitor Glokta. This book is perfect for those who enjoy grimdark fantasy with a touch of dark humor.
6. Assassin’s Apprentice
Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb is the first book in the Farseer Trilogy, which is part of the larger Realm of the Elderlings series. It follows the life of FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard trained as an assassin. This book is a must-read for its deep emotional narrative and complex characters.
7. The Black Prism
Brent Weeks’ The Black Prism kicks off the Lightbringer series, introducing a world where magic is based on the manipulation of light. The story centers on Gavin Guile, the most powerful person in the world, and his many secrets. This book is recommended for its unique magic system and fast-paced plot.
8. The Eye of the World
Robert Jordan’s The Eye of the World is the first book in the Wheel of Time series. It follows a group of young villagers who are thrust into a world of prophecy and danger. This epic tale is perfect for those who love detailed world-building and a large cast of characters.
9. The Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is a classic that needs no introduction. It follows Bilbo Baggins on an unexpected journey filled with dwarves, dragons, and adventure. This book is a timeless recommendation for its charming narrative and foundational place in the fantasy genre.
10. A Game of Thrones
Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin is the first book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series. It introduces readers to the complex political and social landscape of Westeros. This book is highly recommended for its intricate plot and morally ambiguous characters.
11. The Priory of the Orange Tree
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree is a standalone epic fantasy that weaves together multiple storylines involving dragons, queens, and ancient prophecies. It’s recommended for those who enjoy strong female characters and lush world-building.
12. The Broken Empire
Mark Lawrence’s The Broken Empire series begins with Prince of Thorns, following the ruthless journey of Jorg Ancrath as he seeks power and revenge. This series is recommended for its dark, gritty narrative and complex protagonist.
13. The Queen of the Tearling
Erika Johansen’s The Queen of the Tearling follows Princess Kelsea Raleigh Glynn as she ascends to the throne and faces numerous challenges. This book is recommended for those who enjoy political intrigue and strong female leads.
14. The Fifth Season
N.K. Jemisin’s The Fifth Season is the first book in the Broken Earth trilogy. It introduces a world plagued by constant seismic activity and follows three women with the power to control the earth. This book is highly recommended for its innovative world-building and compelling narrative.
15. The Warded Man
Peter V. Brett’s The Warded Man is the first book in the Demon Cycle series. It follows the lives of three characters as they grow up in a world where demons emerge at night. This book is recommended for its unique magic system and engaging plot.
16. The Shadow of What Was Lost
James Islington’s The Shadow of What Was Lost is the first book in the Licanius Trilogy. It follows a young man named Davian who discovers he has forbidden powers. This book is recommended for its intricate plot and well-developed magic system.
17. The Red Knight
Miles Cameron’s The Red Knight is the first book in The Traitor Son Cycle. It follows a mercenary company as they defend a kingdom from monstrous threats. This book is recommended for its detailed battle scenes and complex characters.
18. The Bone Season
Samantha Shannon’s The Bone Season is set in a dystopian future where clairvoyants are hunted. The story follows Paige Mahoney, a young dreamwalker. This book is recommended for its unique setting and fast-paced narrative.
19. The Golem and the Jinni
Helene Wecker’s The Golem and the Jinni is a historical fantasy that intertwines the lives of two mythical beings in early 20th-century New York. This book is recommended for its lush prose and enchanting storyline.
20. The Grace of Kings
Ken Liu’s The Grace of Kings is the first book in the Dandelion Dynasty series. It blends elements of Chinese history with epic fantasy, following two friends who become leaders in a revolution. This book is recommended for its unique cultural perspective and epic scope.