Epic Fantasy Books Similar to Words of Radiance

Exploring the expansive and intricate realms of epic fantasy can be a breathtaking adventure for any reader. If you’ve found yourself drawn to the likes of Words of Radiance or any of Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive, you’re in luck. There are numerous other sweeping epic fantasies that share qualities like intricate worldbuilding, ambitious storytelling, and morally ambiguous characters.

Books Similar in Scope and Style to Words of Radiance

Brandon Sanderson’s work is renowned for its extensive worldbuilding and meticulous attention to detail. If you’re looking for books with a similar scale and style, consider exploring:

Mistborn Trilogy

His Mistborn trilogy, followed by yet another trilogy set in the same world several centuries later, offers a similar rich and immersive experience. The world is filled with unique magic, complex political intrigue, and a diverse cast of characters. Sanderson’s talent for worldbuilding and storytelling is on full display in this series.

Pat Rothfuss’s Kingkiller Chronicles

For a more intimate first-person narrative, Kingkiller Chronicles offers a great experience. From the highly praised The Name of the Wind to the sequel The Wise Man’s Fear, these books follow the adventures of Kvothe, a complex and compelling protagonist. Although not as sprawling as the Stormlight Archive, they are known for their rich, intricate stories and memorable characters.

The Wheel of Time Series

Heavily influenced by the Wheel of Time series, by Robert Jordan, you can expect a similarly vast and intricate world with numerous viewpoint characters. This series follows the journey of Rand al'Thor and Egwene al'Vere as they navigate their destinies in a world shrouded in mythology and magic. The intricate plot and detailed worldbuilding make it a standout choice for epic fantasy enthusiasts.

The Liveship Traders and Rainwild Books by Robin Hobb

If you prefer a slightly slower pace with a greater focus on character development, you might enjoy Robin Hobb’s Liveship Traders series. Taking place in the same world as the Rainwild books, these series delve deeply into the lives and lore of the inhabitants of the Stormark region. With a quieter, more character-driven narrative, these books offer a detailed exploration of the world and the motivations of its people.

The Malazan Book of the Fallen Series

For those who enjoy a series with a substantial number of viewpoint characters and a sprawling plot, The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erik Donaldson is a must-read. Spanning ten books, each containing around 250k words, this series is a tour de force of epic fantasy. However, some readers may find the later books less cohesive, which could be a consideration for your reading journey.

Tad Williams’s Memory, Sorrow and Thorn Trilogy

Another classic in the genre is Tad Williams’s Memory, Sorrow and Thorn series. This trilogy is known for its rich worldbuilding and complex storylines. The rich tapestry of characters and events will keep you engaged long after you’ve finished the last page.

While epic fantasy offers a wealth of choice, these books share several key qualities that make the genre so appealing: intricate worldbuilding, ambitious storytelling, and a focus on complex, morally ambiguous characters. Whether you prefer a more character-driven narrative or a sprawling, expansive world, there’s a book for every taste in the world of epic fantasy.