Books matching: character arcs
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- #1
Save:A spectacular, ambitious epic for true fantasy lovers - massive in scope, dense in detail, but totally worth the journey if you’re ready to invest the time. This is the gold standard for modern high fantasy.
'The Way of Kings' in 'The Stormlight Archive' series by Brandon Sanderson is an epic fantasy novel that introduces readers to a world filled with unique magic systems, intricate world-building, and deep character development. The plot revolves around multiple main characters, each with their own complex storylines that eventually intertwine. The magic system in the book is innovative and tied to gems that capture stormlight, which powers magical armor and various other elements in the world. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of slow-paced world-building and action-packed sequences that keep readers hooked throughout the 1000+ pages of the book.
“You’ve killed me. Bastards, you’ve killed me! While the sun is still hot, I die!” —Collected on the fifth day of the week Chach of the month Betab of the year 1171, ten seconds before death. Subject... - #2
Save:A fun, witty, fantasy adventure with a memorable heroine - great if you enjoy YA, but not for those looking for ultra-gritty realism or minimal romance. Worth a try for snarky banter, epic competitions, and plenty of intrigue!
In "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas, readers are introduced to Celaena Sardothian, a skilled assassin who is given the opportunity to compete in a tournament to become the King's Champion and gain her freedom. The book follows Celaena's journey as she navigates the challenges of the competition, forms unexpected friendships, and uncovers mysterious murders that threaten her life. The writing style is described as vivid, well-written, and engaging, with a mix of action-packed scenes, intriguing characters, and a compelling murder mystery that keeps readers craving for more.
After a year of slavery in the Salt Mines of Endovier, Celaena Sardothien was accustomed to being escorted everywhere in shackles and at sword-point. Most of the thousands of slaves in Endovier receiv...August 2012•436 pages - #3
Save:A fiercely intelligent, heart-wrenching political fantasy that twists the knife in all the best ways - perfect for fans of dark intrigue and emotional depth, but absolutely not a cozy comfort read.
The Traitor Baru Cormorant follows the journey of Baru, a brilliant and complex protagonist, who is plucked from her native family to be educated by an empire that is taking over her homeland. As she rises through the ranks of the empire, she navigates a world of political intrigue, betrayal, and difficult choices. Baru's ultimate goal is to gain enough power to potentially liberate her home, but the central question remains: is she a traitor, and to what exactly? The book delves into themes of morality, sacrifice, and the cost of trying to change a system from within, all while exploring a society undergoing colonization, economic manipulation, and cultural suppression.
The writing style of The Traitor Baru Cormorant is described as intellectually devastating and emotionally rigorous, blending elements reminiscent of authors like Guy Gavriel Kay and KJ Parker. The story unfolds with intricate plot twists, deep character studies, and a focus on political and economic intrigue. Despite being a fantasy novel without traditional magic elements, the book captivates readers with its complex characters, well-built world, and a narrative that challenges readers to question the boundaries of power and loyalty.
The Masquerade sent its favorite soldiers to conquer Taranoke: sailcloth, dyes, glazed ceramic, sealskin and oils, paper currency printed in their Falcrest tongue. Little Baru, playing castles in the...September 2015•401 pages - #4
Save:A must-read for fantasy lovers - Mistborn’s inventive magic, layered plot, and lovable characters make it a classic, despite a slow start and simple prose. Stick with it - the payoff is absolutely worth it!
'The Final Empire' in the 'Mistborn' series by Brandon Sanderson follows the story of Vin, a young thief with extraordinary abilities, as she becomes involved in a plot to overthrow the immortal emperor. Set in a world plagued by slavery, crime, and political corruption, the story unfolds with intricate magical systems and complex characters facing moral dilemmas and making compromises. The rebellion to dethrone the seemingly unkillable Lord Ruler and free the oppressed Skaa forms the central conflict, providing a mix of action, intrigue, and character development.
Vin watched the downy flakes drift through the air. Leisurely. Careless. Free. The puffs of soot fell like black snowflakes, descending upon the dark city of Luthadel. They drifted in corners, blowing...2006•679 pages - #5
Save:A daring, unforgettable blend of fantasy and sci-fi with brilliant world-building and powerful themes - worth reading if you’re ready for something bold and boundary-pushing.
The Fifth Season is a captivating blend of fantasy and science fiction set in a geologically unstable future Earth. The story follows individuals with the magical ability to control the earth's structures, known as orogenes, who are feared and oppressed by society. Through multiple perspectives, the book weaves together a tale of survival, discrimination, and the impending end of the world. N.K. Jemisin's unique writing style, intricate world-building, and complex characters create an immersive and thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of power, oppression, and resilience.
For the past ten years you’ve lived as ordinary a life as possible. You came to Tirimo from elsewhere; the townsfolk don’t really care where or why. Since you were obviously well educated, you became...August 2015•509 pages - #6
Save:A bold, harrowing, and unforgettable debut - The Poppy War is perfect for fans of grimdark fantasy and history-inspired epics, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Check content warnings before diving in!
'The Poppy War' by R.F. Kuang is a fantasy novel based on Chinese history, featuring a protagonist named Rin who rises from being an orphan to excelling at a prestigious military academy. The story takes unexpected turns diverging from typical YA fantasy tropes, delving into themes of tragedy, war, and morality. The book incorporates elements of Chinese culture and history, drawing parallels to real-world events such as the Japanese occupation and the Second Sino-Japanese War. The writing style is described as detailed, immersive, and thought-provoking, providing a fresh take on epic fantasy with strong themes and messages.
Rin crossed her arms tightly across her chest and walked toward the second proctor. She was led behind a screen, patted thoroughly to make sure she hadn’t packed test materials up any orifices, and th...May 2018•544 pages - #7
Save:'Son of a Liche' by J. Zachary Pike is a fantasy novel that continues the story of the characters from the previous book, 'Orconomics'. The plot is engaging and fast-paced, with multiple storylines that seamlessly intersect. The writing style is witty, filled with laugh-out-loud jokes, clever references, and a satirical take on fantasy tropes and real-world issues. The book explores themes of hope, doing the right thing, and the importance of individual actions in dark times, all while maintaining a sense of humor and self-awareness.
Gorm peered into the remnants of the funeral pyre. The wind blew snow into the pile of charred timber, dusting the remains inside with frost. The same wind blew the ashes from the pit onto the jagged...April 2018•613 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Dark Profit Saga ) - #8
Save:'Space Carrier Avalon' in the 'Castle Federation' series by Glynn Stewart is a space opera military science fiction novel that follows the story of Kyle Roberts, a fighter ace who becomes the Commander Air Group of the Star Ship Avalon, an older Carrier on its final voyage. The Avalon is a ship filled with misfits and criminals, being refitted for one last tour of the Federation. As Kyle navigates his new role and tries to bring the ship back to combat status, the story unfolds against the backdrop of a war between various human factions spread across light years.
The writing style of the book is described as detailed and well-researched, with a focus on space battles, character development, and intricate world-building. The author delves into the science of the futuristic technology presented in the story, creating a believable universe with elements of fringe science that push the boundaries of what is possible today.
June 2015•357 pages - #9
Save:A brilliantly bonkers kickoff to Discworld - witty, ridiculous, and endlessly inventive. Not Pratchett’s most polished, but essential if you want to see where fantasy’s funniest universe began. Give it a shot, and don’t be afraid to skip ahead in the series if it doesn’t click right away!
'The Colour of Magic' by Terry Pratchett is the first book in the Discworld series, introducing readers to the adventures of Twoflower, the Disc's first tourist, and Rincewind, a failed wizard who becomes his guide. The book is a humorous and whimsical fantasy satire that cleverly turns fantasy tropes on their heads, featuring a variety of eccentric characters and imaginative situations. The writing style of Terry Pratchett is described as witty, clever, and full of clever wordplay that creates a detailed and fantastical world for readers to explore.
FIRE ROARED through the bifurcated city of Ankh-Morpork. Where it licked the Wizards’ Quarter it burned blue and green and was even laced with strange sparks of the eighth color, octarine; where its o...1983•227 pages - #10
Save:'A Sky Beyond the Storm' in the 'An Ember in the Ashes' series by Sabaa Tahir is an epic conclusion that weaves together the lives of beloved characters facing loss, love, and forgiveness amidst a backdrop of war and magical elements. The author creates a world full of intrigue, heart-stopping twists, and complex character arcs, leaving readers enthralled until the very end. Tahir's writing style immerses readers in a tale of epic battles, deep emotions, and moral dilemmas, culminating in a soul-satisfying conclusion that tugs at the heartstrings.
December 2020•543 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series An Ember in the Ashes )
