Game of Thrones is one of these defining pieces of art that set the tone for a whole genre – both on screen and in literature. Since the end of HBO’s smash hit TV series, the question all over the web was about fantasy books like Game of Thrones.
In itself, JRR Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire isn’t something groundbreaking – the still-incomplete saga is heavily based on historical events, like the 15th century English Civil War, popularly named The War of the Roses, where the influential houses of Lancaster, Tudor, and York squared off for the English crown.
The Books Game Of Thrones Is Based On
JRR Martin never shied away from saying that A Song of Ice and Fire is based heavily on historical events from the Middle Ages. Just like a lot of Tolkienesque books, there are a lot of influences in his books.
However, what makes Game of Thrones stand out from similar books, especially medieval fantasy books and historical fiction, is Martin’s masterful wordsmithing. He may be considered the master of the plot twist and the master of creating your favorite character. And he was then killing them.
Books Game of Thrones order
- A Game of Thrones
- A Clash of Kings
- A Storm of Swords: Part 1 Steel and Snow
- A Storm of Swords: Part 2 Blood and Gold
- A Feast for Crows
- A Dance With Dragons: Part 1 Dreams and Dust
- A Dance With Dragons: Part 2 After the Feast
Historical Fiction: What to Read after Game of Thrones
The demand for good books like Game of Thrones is ever-rising. What to read after Game of Thrones? This popular demand gave us a burst of historical fantasies. However, in literature, the genres of dark military, epic fantasy, and magical realism are a constant. So, assembling a list of book series like Game of Thrones wasn’t challenging, as there’s an abundance of the best epic fantasy series. The hard task was to narrow them down to just 12.
The Belgariad Series by David Eddings
Just like Game of Thrones, the books about The Belgariad are a timeless epic that tells the saga of Garion, a seemingly ordinary farm boy. Little does he know that his destiny is intricately woven into a cosmic prophecy that holds the very balance of the world in its hands. Alongside a captivating cast, including Belgarath, the formidable Silk, and the enchanting princess Ce’Nedra, Garion’s quest unfolds. Their mission is to confront the malevolent deity Torak and restore equilibrium to the cosmos.
The Belgariad books in reading order
David Eddings’ legacy extends far beyond The Belgariad. Explore our comprehensive Reading Guide, an indispensable resource for navigating the realms of David Eddings’ literary genius.
- “Pawn of Prophecy”
- “Queen of Sorcery”
- “Magician’s Gambit”
- “Castle of Wizardry”
- “Enchanters’ End Game”
If you’re a fan of Eddings, check out interconnected series like “The Malloreon,” “The Elenium,” and “The Tamuli.” Should “The Belgariad” weave its enchantment into your heart, consider venturing into these other realms as well.
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan (Wheel of Time Series)
You might find yourself facing the weighty tome, “The Eye of the World,” spanning over 800 pages, and wonder if it’s worth the adventure. Rest assured, it most certainly is, as it is one of the best epic fantasy series!
Robert Jordan’s literary masterpiece takes approximately ten chapters for our protagonists to set forth on their epic journey. This deliberate pace is an enthralling introduction to Emond’s Field, a setting reminiscent of the idyllic Shire, blissfully detached from the tumultuous world beyond.
One can’t help but admire Robert Jordan’s unapologetic embrace of his inspirations.
“The Eye of the World” unfolds as a captivating travelogue, inviting readers to explore a vividly crafted realm through the eyes of the protagonist, Rand, who, until now, had never ventured beyond the confines of the Two Rivers region.
Jordan’s writing style flows like a melodic river, soothing as if your wise old grandparent were spinning tales by a crackling fireplace. This is an unadulterated, immersive fantasy at its core, a literary treat for the ages.
Wheel of Time Series reading order
Here’s a list of the Wheel of Time books in good reading order. The list includes the New Spring prequel and several sequels and spin-offs.
- New Spring
- The Eye of the World
- The Great Hunt
- The Dragon Reborn
- The Shadow Rising
- The Fires of Heaven
- Lord of Chaos
- A Crown of Swords
- The Path of Daggers
- Winter’s Heart
- Crossroads of Twilight
- Knife of Dreams
- The Gathering Storm
- Towers of Midnight
- A Memory of Light
Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind
In “Wizard’s First Rule,” we embark on a gripping quest alongside the young and determined Richard Cypher. His mission: to locate three enigmatic magic boxes concealed within the pages of his late father’s secret tome. Failure is not an option, for the malevolent Lord Darken Rahl seeks these very boxes, poised to seize dominion over both the realms of the living and the underworld, thrusting the world into an era of unrelenting terror.
Richard finds an ally in Kahlan, an enigmatic and alluring stranger. Together, they navigate the treacherous path ahead. With the guidance of the sagacious Zedd, Richard’s elderly confidant, and the stalwart Chase, a formidable boundary warden, they embark on a quest that could decide the fate of their world.
Similarities
Like many books like A Game of Thrones, the main character suffers greatly. Tragedy strikes as Richard’s father falls victim to a brutal murder, plunging him into a relentless pursuit of his father’s killer. Fate intervenes in a forest encounter with a captivating young woman, pursued by three menacing assailants. Richard, driven by chivalry and courage, aids Kahlan and, in a fierce altercation, thwarts their attackers. It’s arguably one of the books like Song of Ice and Fire you should check out!
Wizard’s First Rule in Reading Order
Prepare to be swept into a world where bravery and magic intertwine, where the pursuit of truth and the battle for survival define the narrative. “Wizard’s First Rule” is a captivating tale of power, redemption, and the relentless quest for a better future.
- 0 The First Confessor
- 0.5 Debt of Bones
- 1 Wizard’s First Rule
- 2 Stone of Tears
- 3 Blood of the Fold
- 4 Temple of the Winds
- 5 Soul of the Fire
- 6 Faith of the Fallen
- 7 The Pillars of Creation
- 8 Naked Empire
- 9 Chainfire
- 10 Phantom
- 11 Confessor
- 12 The Omen Machine
- 13 The Third Kingdom
- 14 Severed Souls
- 15 Warheart
Dragon Jousters series by Mercedes Lackey
When we discuss books comparable to Game of Thrones, we can’t miss this one.
In the shadow of an unjust conquest by the dragon-riding Jousters of Tia, Vetch, once a serf of Altan descent, toiled ceaselessly on the very land that had once belonged to his family. Gaunt and youthfully frail, his survival hinged not on nourishment but an unrelenting ember of anger. The fury fueled him, the anger of losing his home and kin to the ruthless conflict waged by Tia.
But the dragons are not the only thing that makes this book similar to Game of Thrones! Tia’s expansionism had snatched away nearly half of Alta’s sacred lands, trapping its people in a web of enslavement and bloodshed. To Vetch, it seemed as though his destiny was inextricably woven with dragons and the formidable Jousters who rode them.
The narrative
Vetch’s tale builds a narrative of resilience and defiance, a saga where the flames of anger spark a journey of redemption and rebellion. The quest for freedom, underpinned by the enigmatic power of dragons, beckons Vetch toward an uncertain destiny, where the fate of nations hangs in the balance.
Dragon Jousters series reading order
- Joust (Dragon Jousters Book 1) (2003)
- Alta (Dragon Jousters Book 2) (2004)
- Sanctuary (Dragon Jousters Book 3) (2005)
- Aerie (Dragon Jousters Book 4) (2006)
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
In the tranquil confines of a small village on the enchanting island of Gont, a remarkable child named Ged, born as Duny, first drew breath. His precocious nature, marked by a quick wit, pride, and insatiable curiosity, set him apart from his peers. Fate, it seemed, had woven a tapestry of magic into the fabric of his existence.
Unlike other books similar to Game of Thrones, here we’ll see a lot of wizards, witches, and magic, which makes A Wizard of Earthsea one of the best epic fantasy series!
Guiding Ged’s burgeoning talents was his aunt, a village witch of humble repute. She recognized the dormant magic within him and embarked on the solemn task of unraveling its mysteries. Under her tutelage, Ged’s innate potential began to bloom.
When darkness falls
However, destiny took an unexpected turn when darkness descended upon their tranquil abode. A ruthless tribe, a harbinger of chaos and destruction, descended upon Ged’s village like a tempest. With swift resolve, Ged confronted the invaders, summoning an illusionary veil of ghostly fog to shield his home and vanquish the assailants. His valorous act saved the village, but at a cost—Ged’s magical reserves were depleted, leaving him in a near-catatonic state. It’s one of the books like the Game of Thrones we can recommend you.
A Wizard of Earthsea Reading order
- A Wizard of Earthsea
- The Tombs of Atuan
- The Farthest Shore
- Tehanu
- Tales from Earthsea
- The Other Wind
Prince of Thorns by Mark Lawrence
American-British author Mark Lawrence is the author of the spellbinding “Broken Empire” trilogy. The saga, commencing with “Prince of Thorns” in 2011, unfurls a tapestry of treachery and retribution, further enriched by its sequels, “King of Thorns” (2012) and “Emperor of Thorns” (2013).
“Prince of Thorns” is one of the finest fantasy books like Game of Thrones. It plunges readers into a world reborn from the ashes of apocalypse—a land where feudalism reigns supreme, and the boundaries between the living and the dead are shrouded in eerie uncertainty. At its epicenter stands Prince Honorous Jorg Ancrath, a character whose journey is as visceral as it is haunting.
Jorg’s tale
Jorg’s tragic tale begins at the tender age of ten when a ruthless cadre of assassins leave him for dead after slaughtering his mother and younger brother before his very eyes. Scarred by the horrors he’s witnessed, Jorg descends into madness, gripped by fever-induced delirium.
In the crucible of his suffering, his innocence is devoured by the flames of vengeance, and he fixates on a singular purpose: to exact retribution upon Count Renar, the puppet master behind the gruesome assassination.
“Prince of Thorns” is a riveting exploration of a fractured psyche and the cost of revenge. Mark Lawrence’s narrative prowess thrusts readers into a world where morality blurs and darkness reigns supreme. The Broken Empire Trilogy is a dark fantasy odyssey where the pursuit of power and vengeance knows no bounds.
Prince of Thorns in Reading order
- Prince of Thorns
- King of Thorns
- Emperor of Thorns
A Chorus of Dragons by Jenn Lyons
More dragons! Meet Kihrin, a humble orphan raised on the enchanting tales of long-lost princes and epic quests. Little did he know that his life would take an abrupt turn when he was forcibly thrust into a role he never sought—an alleged long-lost son of a treacherous prince. The dream of being a cherished prince from the storybooks quickly unravels, revealing a harsh reality far removed from childhood fantasies.
There be dragons!
Dragons, demons, gods, prophecies, true love—the very foundations of these cherished tales crumble beneath the weight of reality. The notion that heroes invariably emerge triumphant is also a myth. Kihrin grapples with the revelation that he’s not destined to save the empire; rather, his destiny is inexorably linked to its destruction.
This makes A Chorus of Dragons one of the best picks on what to read after Game of Thrones.
In this enthralling narrative, Kihrin’s journey unfolds against a backdrop of treachery and betrayal, where the line between truth and illusion blurs. As he navigates a world built on deception, he discovers that destiny is a capricious force, and the path he treads is fraught with peril and uncertainty.
A Chorus of Dragons Reading order
- The Ruin Of Kings Book
- The Name Of All Things Book
- The Memory Of Souls Book
- The House Of Always Book
Ashes of the Unhewn Throne trilogy by Brian Staveley
Brian Staveley’s “Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne” series takes us back to a realm adored by the fans of epic fantasy. With “The Empire’s Ruin,” the first installment of an exciting epic fantasy trilogy, the author beckons readers once more into the sprawling and immersive world they’ve come to adore.
As the mighty Annurian Empire stands at the precipice of disintegration, the very pillars that sustained it for millennia crumble into ruin. The proud and formidable ranks of the Kettral, once a bastion of strength, have been decimated from within. The kenta gates, those mystical conduits that granted instantaneous travel across the empire’s vast expanse, now lay dormant and unusable.
To tame a land
In a desperate bid to salvage the empire from the brink of collapse, a survivor from the dwindling Kettral must embark on an odyssey that takes them to the edge of the known world. There, in a land twisted and tainted, they must seek out the fabled nesting grounds of the colossal war hawks. This daring quest is their final hope, fraught with peril and shrouded in mystery.
In “The Empire’s Ruin,” Brian Staveley weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of adventure, intrigue, and discovery. As readers journey alongside these characters, they will be transported to a world where the boundaries of possibility are boundless and where survival is the ultimate test of mettle.
Ashes of the Unhewn Throne Reading order
- The Emperor’s Blades
- The Providence of Fire
- The Last Mortal Bond
- Skullsworn
- The Empire’s Ruin
Of Blood and Bone by John Gwynne
Prepare to be transported into a realm of unparalleled fantasy as acclaimed author John Gwynne returns with the opening act of an enthralling new trilogy. For devotees of George R. R. Martin, Brandon Sanderson, and David Gemmell, “A Time of Dread” is a captivating reminder of why the world of fantasy literature has the power to enrapture our imaginations. So, if you’re looking for good books like Game of Thrones, then you’re in the right place!
The Ben-Elim
Within the hallowed pages of this epic tale, a race of formidable warrior angels known as the Ben-Elim emerges from the annals of history. Once, they triumphed over a formidable demon horde, vanquishing it into oblivion. Today, they reign supreme in the Banished lands, their dominion maintained with unwavering vigilance and brutal authority.
“A Time of Dread” unveils an era defined by shifting loyalties and imminent, world-altering perils. It is a time when choices must be made, and destinies hang in the balance. In the hidden recesses, demons gather, biding their time for the inevitable ascent. This threat will reshape their world in ways unimaginable.
John Gwynne’s masterful narrative promises an immersive journey through a world where allegiances are tested, and dangers lurk at every turn. As the shadows lengthen, the stage is set for a sweeping epic that will leave readers breathless.
Of Blood and Bone in Reading order
- A Time of Dread
- A Time of Blood
- A Time of Courage
Starborn (The Worldmaker Trilogy) by Lucy Hounsom
Lucy Hounsom’s enthralling debut, “Starborn,” marks the inauguration of “The Worldmaker Trilogy” with undeniable flair. This enchanting novel is a testament to her elegant prose, boundless imagination, and a storytelling vibe that effortlessly bridges the gap between seasoned fantasy enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre, regardless of age.
In the quaint village of Brenwyn, the passage into adulthood is marked by an age-old rite of passage—a sacred meeting with a relic-keeper. This ancient tradition unveils one’s true name and destined path. However, fate takes an unexpected twist on Kyndra Vale’s momentous day.
A strange vision grips her, and when she reaches the relic, it shatters, bringing centuries of tradition to a sudden, jarring halt. More ominously, this ill-fated incident heralds the arrival of a Breaking, an unnatural tempest that razes the village to the ground.
The narrative
“Starborn” unveils a narrative woven with mystery, power, and destiny threads. Lucy Hounsom’s storytelling prowess invites readers into a world where the boundaries of reality blur, and magic is both a gift and a curse. As Kyndra’s tale unfolds, the reader is drawn into a mesmerizing web of intrigue, where the path to self-discovery is fraught with perils and revelations.
The Widowmaker Reading order
- Firestorm
- Heartland
- Starborn.
The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb
Prepare to be transported to the mesmerizing world of the Six Duchies in Robin Hobb’s epic fantasy series, the Farseer Trilogy. This enchanting saga follows the life of Fitz from his childhood into his tumultuous mid-twenties, where destiny unfolds against the backdrop of a realm under siege.
The Six Duchies, a realm of breathtaking beauty, are constantly threatened by the marauding Red Ship Raiders from the perilous Outislands. Each year, as the warmer seasons approach, these ruthless Raiders descend upon the coastline, leaving a wake of devastation in their path.
Amidst this backdrop of impending doom, we follow the journey of Fitz, a character whose destiny is irrevocably tied to the fate of the Six Duchies. Trained as an assassin, Fitz becomes a vital instrument in the service of both his homeland and his enigmatic uncle, Verity.
A true masterpiece
The Farseer Trilogy is a masterpiece of epic fantasy with a lot in common with the books of Game of Thrones and the series. The characters evolve, the plots thicken, and the line between hero and antihero blurs. Robin Hobb’s rich storytelling invites readers to explore a world where intrigue and magic converge and where Fitz’s journey serves as a mesmerizing lens through which to witness the enduring struggle for survival and redemption.
The Farseer Trilogy Reading order
- Assassin’s Apprentice
- Royal Assassin
- Assassin’s Quest
The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
For those searching for a fantasy series that delves deep into the realms of darkness, grit, and unrelenting action, Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law Trilogy is a compelling choice. This epic trilogy has captivated the hearts and minds of countless readers, weaving a tapestry of complex characters, intricate plots, and a vividly crafted world teeming with intrigue.
A distinguished British fantasy author, Joe Abercrombie is renowned for his distinctive and gritty writing style. Born in Lancaster, England, in 1974, Abercrombie’s literary journey commenced in the world of film editing as a freelance professional. However, in 2002, he took a momentous step, choosing to immerse himself fully in the craft of writing.
Not the average Joe
His literary debut arrived in 2006 with “The Blade Itself,” the inaugural installment of The First Law Trilogy. Since that momentous release, Abercrombie has continued to enrich the world of fantasy with numerous novels and short stories, garnering acclaim for his unique and audacious approach to the genre.
The First Law Trilogy unfolds within a realm that balances the familiar and the mysterious. In a world where darkness looms, grit is an ever-present companion. Magic, though existent, remains enigmatic and rare, lurking in the shadows. At the heart of this saga stands a roster of compelling main characters, each driven by their own ambitions and desires.
First Law Reading order
- The Blade Itself
- Before They Are Hanged
- Last Argument of Kings
Honorable mention for the eternal classics we missed
You probably notice the absence of several eternal classics, like The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Disc World, The Witcher, and more. These literature masterpieces have drawn tons of mainstream attention in the last two decades and will inspire the next crop of leading authors. Many talented and highly motivated authors would love to escape the cliché of writing Tolkienesque books.
Besides, the author of this article has a hidden agenda to draw the spotlight to some works that deserve the attention of the fans.
In conclusion
Still wondering what to read after Game of Thrones? The epic fantasy genre is an ever-expanding universe of wonder, epic battles, heroes, and villains. So, pick one of the book series like Game of Thrones from our list. And rest assured – they won’t disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recent fantasy releases that capture the spirit of Game of Thrones?
Recent releases in the epic fantasy genre include “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon, a standalone novel with a richly detailed world and complex characters.
Are there any fantasy series that combine elements of both epic and military fantasy?
The Codex Alera by Jim Butcher is a unique blend of epic and military fantasy. Set in a world where humans bond with elemental spirits to gain powers, it features political intrigue and epic battles as the protagonist rises from obscurity.
What military fantasy series has the most memorable and well-developed characters?
The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson is known for its vast array of well-developed characters, each with their own unique story arcs and motivations. It’s a series where characters play a central role in the unfolding epic.
Are there any epic fantasy books with a focus on diverse cultures and civilizations?
“The Dandelion Dynasty” series by Ken Liu offers a diverse and culturally rich world inspired by East Asian history and mythology. It explores themes of governance, leadership, and cultural clashes in a captivating fantasy setting.
What classic military fantasy novels have stood the test of time?
Classic military fantasy novels have endured, including “The Black Company” by Glen Cook and “The Deed of Paksenarrion” by Elizabeth Moon. These books have maintained their popularity for their compelling military themes and storytelling.
Can you recommend a fantasy series with morally complex characters and political intrigue like Game of Thrones?
For morally complex characters and intricate political intrigue, “The First Law” trilogy by Joe Abercrombie is a must-read. It features antiheroes and political maneuvering in a grim and violent world.
