If you’re a fan of Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman series and are looking for more captivating reads in the fantasy genre, you’re in for a treat. Below, you’ll find a list of 19 books that capture the same essence of wonder, mythology, and dark fantasy that The Sandman is known for. Each book offers a unique journey into fantastical worlds, rich with complex characters and imaginative storytelling.
Books Similar to Audible Sandman
1. American Gods by Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman’s American Gods is a modern classic that blends Americana with ancient mythology. The story follows Shadow Moon, a man who becomes embroiled in a war between old and new gods. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves The Sandman for its intricate storytelling and mythological elements.
2. Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
Good Omens is a humorous take on the apocalypse, co-written by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. The story centers around an angel and a demon who team up to prevent the end of the world. If you enjoyed the wit and dark humor in The Sandman, this book will not disappoint.
3. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
Neverwhere takes readers to a hidden world beneath London, filled with strange creatures and dark adventures. Richard Mayhew, an ordinary man, finds himself thrust into this underground realm. Fans of the dark, urban fantasy elements in The Sandman will find Neverwhere equally enchanting.
4. The Dark Tower Series by Stephen King
Stephen King’s The Dark Tower series is a genre-bending epic that combines fantasy, horror, and western elements. The series follows Roland Deschain, the last Gunslinger, on his quest to find the Dark Tower. The complex world-building and dark themes make this series a great follow-up for The Sandman fans.
5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
The Name of the Wind is the first book in Patrick Rothfuss’s The Kingkiller Chronicle. It tells the story of Kvothe, a legendary figure, recounting his life from his childhood to his rise in fame. The lyrical prose and rich storytelling make this a compelling read for those who love The Sandman.
6. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora is a tale of intrigue and adventure, following the exploits of a master thief in the city of Camorr. The book’s clever plotting and vibrant characters will appeal to fans of the intricate narratives found in The Sandman.
7. The City & The City by China Miéville
The City & The City is a unique blend of fantasy and crime noir. The story revolves around Inspector Tyador Borlú as he investigates a murder in two cities that coexist in the same physical space. The novel’s imaginative premise and complex world-building will captivate readers who enjoy the surreal aspects of The Sandman.
8. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is a historical fantasy set in an alternate 19th-century England where magic is real. The book explores the lives of two magicians and their tumultuous relationship. Its richly detailed world and intricate plot make it a great pick for The Sandman enthusiasts.
9. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
The Night Circus is a magical realism novel about a mysterious circus that appears without warning. The story follows two young magicians who are pitted against each other in a competition. The book’s enchanting atmosphere and intricate narrative will appeal to fans of the dreamlike quality of The Sandman.
10. The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell
David Mitchell’s The Bone Clocks is a genre-spanning novel that weaves together multiple narratives across different time periods. The story centers around Holly Sykes, who becomes entangled in a cosmic battle between immortals. The book’s complex structure and imaginative scope make it a fitting choice for The Sandman readers.
11. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth Trilogy is a groundbreaking series that explores themes of oppression and survival in a world plagued by apocalyptic events. The story follows Essun, a woman with earth-manipulating abilities, as she searches for her daughter. The trilogy’s rich world-building and emotional depth will resonate with The Sandman fans.
12. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law Trilogy is a gritty and dark fantasy series that subverts traditional fantasy tropes. The story features a diverse cast of morally complex characters, each with their own agendas. The series’ dark tone and intricate plotting make it a great follow-up for The Sandman enthusiasts.
13. The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Kingkiller Chronicle is a masterfully crafted series that follows the life of Kvothe, a legendary figure in a fantastical world. The series is known for its beautiful prose and deep character development. Fans of The Sandman will appreciate the rich storytelling and immersive world-building.
14. The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
The Golem and the Jinni is a historical fantasy novel set in 19th-century New York City. The story follows the unlikely friendship between a golem and a jinni as they navigate their new lives in the human world. The book’s unique premise and richly detailed setting will captivate readers who enjoy the imaginative aspects of The Sandman.
15. The Magicians Trilogy by Lev Grossman
Lev Grossman’s The Magicians Trilogy is often described as a darker, more adult version of Harry Potter. The series follows Quentin Coldwater, a young man who discovers a magical world that is both enchanting and dangerous. The trilogy’s dark tone and complex characters make it a fitting choice for The Sandman fans.
16. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
The Shadow of the Wind is a literary mystery set in post-World War II Barcelona. The story revolves around a young boy who discovers a forgotten book that changes his life. The novel’s atmospheric setting and intricate plot will appeal to fans of the richly layered narratives found in The Sandman.
17. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a haunting and lyrical novel that explores themes of memory and childhood. The story follows a man who returns to his hometown and recalls a series of otherworldly events from his past. The book’s dreamlike quality and emotional depth make it a great pick for The Sandman enthusiasts.
18. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
The Graveyard Book is a dark fantasy novel that follows the life of Bod, a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard. The book’s blend of whimsy and darkness, along with its richly imagined world, will captivate readers who enjoy the fantastical elements of The Sandman.
19. The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins
Scott Hawkins’s The Library at Mount Char is a dark and twisted tale about a group of people raised by a god-like figure in a mysterious library. The book’s unique premise and dark humor make it a compelling read for fans of the darker aspects of The Sandman.