Table of Contents
If you enjoyed Game of Thrones and the complexity of its worlds, politics, and characters, then you are sure to enjoy some of the same passion and energy invested in other similar books. Here are eight exciting books with rich backgrounds and mixed-moraled characters-a great selection that will keep any George R.R. Martin fan happy and fulfilled.
1. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
The realistic and darkly funny narration of Joe Abercrombie's First Law series keeps the narrative of the story unclear about right and wrong, full of immoral characters. What follows will be in the viewpoints of a barbarian, a torturer, and a nobleman as they unravel the cruel truths of war and power. Abercrombie writes so clearly and interestingly that even such dull political plots and the growth of a character are excitingly filled, also comparable to the blood-and-bone battles.
2. The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson's Stormlight Archive is an epic tale bringing together magic, war, and really deep study of characters. It is set within the tempestuous world of Roshar, where the story lines around three main characters: a noble, a soldier, and a former slave – in order to succeed their futures against the rising danger. Powerful world-building, intense magic systems, and themes of leadership and sacrifice define this series as a must-read epic fantasy for connoisseurs.
3. The Malazan Book of the Fallen, by Steven Erikson
This ten-book series is perceived as very deep and complex. Erikson tells a huge detailed story which covers many places and lengthy time coverage. The Malazan series has so many characters, gods, and races that make the read challenging but worth it, providing layers of political games, deep thoughts, and grand battles, which is very much like the big stories in Game of Thrones.
4. Song of Ice and Fire, by George R.R. Martin
Although technically part of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, Fire & Blood is most greatly an historical companion book, recording the tale of House Targaryen at their rise and then a strong fall over the ages. Readers of the series will be enthralled and gain new insight into the tumultuous past of the Targaryen dynasty, full of politics and intrigue, dragon lore, and just about the themes that were so woven throughout Martin's world: struggle for power.
5. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
Jemisin's award-winning trilogy is set against a world of immense climate problems and changes to society; oppression, resilience, and identity are themes followed in this epic story about people in control of the earth. Jemisin's fabulous storytelling and detailed world-making grant an exceptional view on power and society within the series that readers who enjoy the depth of Martin's writing style find irresistible.
6. The Witcher Series by Andrzej Sapkowski
The Witcher series is about Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a world full of magic, politics, and unclear morals. Sapkowski’s stories mix Slavic myths with dark fantasy, making a detailed universe. The series has action, complicated characters, and moral challenges, similar to the different groups and people in Game of Thrones.
7. Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss
It is the story of Kvothe, a young boy with great talent but a tragic past. Rothfuss's series explores storytelling, magic, and music in a really beautiful way. The tale is told through the recounting of Kvothe's life, which is full of adventure, loss, and personal growth. The characters are deep, and the world is well-crafted to give fans of fantasy an amazing experience that focuses on character-driven stories.
8. The Lightbringer series by Brent Weeks
This tale takes place in a world of magic which appears from light and colour, creating an interesting and beautiful magic system. Strong in the "Prism" who uses the magic of light to confront political problems as well as moral challenges, this follows several characters throughout. Weeks' fast-paced writing and witty plot turns give an interesting experience, much like those seen in Martin's stories.