Books Like...
If you liked Kingdom of Ash, here are the top 100 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Throne of Glass)
- #1
A gripping, emotional dive into Celaena’s past that’s perfect for fans and essential reading for anyone wanting the full Throne of Glass experience. Grab tissues - you’ll be hooked and heartbroken.
'The Assassin's Blade' in the 'Throne of Glass Collections' series by Sarah J. Maas is a collection of five novellas that serve as prequels to the 'Throne of Glass' series. The book delves into the backstory of the main character, Celaena Sardothien, showcasing her journey from an arrogant young assassin to a more mature and complex character. The plot follows Celaena's adventures, challenges, and relationships as she navigates the dangerous world of assassins, pirates, and mysterious realms.
Readers praised the book for its engaging storytelling, fast-paced plot, and strong character development. The writing style was appreciated for its ability to immerse readers in Celaena's world, evoking emotions ranging from excitement to heartbreak. The novellas provide insight into Celaena's past, her motivations, and the events that shape her into the formidable assassin she becomes in the main series.
Seated in the council room of the Assassins’ Keep, Celaena Sardothien leaned back in her chair. “It’s past four in the morning,” she said, adjusting the folds of her crimson silk dressing gown and cro...March 2014•454 pages - #2
A twisty, emotionally rich sequel that cranks up the drama and deepens its world, with powerful characters you'll root for - even as your heart breaks. Perfect for High Fantasy and romantasy fans who love big feels and aren't afraid of a cliffhanger.
'Children of Fallen Gods' in the series 'The War of Lost Hearts' by Carissa Broadbent delves into a complex world filled with war politics, magical discoveries, and interwoven love stories. The plot follows characters like Max and Tisaanah as they navigate through obstacles, evil forces, and their own internal struggles. is a mix of high fantasy, romance, and action-packed sequences, with a writing style that is addicting, emotional, and immersive, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
The air hit my chest all at once. My eyes snapped open to a pit of darkness. Sweat plastered my hair to my neck and the rough sheets to my skin. The blood rushing in my ears drowned out the sounds of...March 2021•635 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The War of Lost Hearts ) An unforgettable, heartbreakingly intense fanfic masterpiece that’s darker and bolder than most published books. Read it for the feels - just make sure you check the trigger warnings first!
Manacled by SenLinYu is a dark and captivating Harry Potter fanfiction that explores an alternate universe where Voldemort has won and Hermione finds herself in a complicated and intense relationship. The book delves into themes of darkness, love, and survival, with an intricate plot that keeps readers hooked until the end. SenLinYu's writing style is described as beautifully crafted, with a knack for creating a world that is both mesmerizing and haunting.
April 2018- #4
Iron Flame is a solid, twisty, and emotional sequel - perfect for fans who devoured Fourth Wing, but its length, drama, and pacing quirks may not work for everyone. If you’re here for dragons, spice, and ultra-high stakes, you’ll be hooked!
'Iron Flame' is a gripping sequel in 'The Empyrean' series by Rebecca Yarros, filled with unexpected plot twists, dragons, gryphons, riders, and flyers. The book follows the journey of Violet and Xaden, exploring themes of love, betrayal, war, and loss. The writing style is fast-paced, immersive, and filled with beautifully written passages that capture emotional states and intricate relationships between characters.
The plot of 'Iron Flame' delves into the complexities of trust, redemption, sacrifice, and the value of life, all set against a backdrop of intense action, friendship dynamics, and the mystery surrounding the dragons and the wardstones. The story unfolds with a perfect balance of suspense, character development, and world-building, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the secrets hidden within the Empyrean world.
Maybe it’s just that I haven’t eaten in three days, since a not-so-mythological being stabbed me in the side with a poisoned blade that should have killed me. It would have killed me if it hadn’t been...November 2023•640 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Empyrean ) - #5
Gritty, emotional, and addictive - a must for fantasy fans who love immersive worlds and high-stakes drama, but not for those who want their stories short, simple, or subtle.
In "House of Earth and Blood" by Sarah J. Maas, readers are taken on a rollercoaster journey through Crescent City, where the nights are as dark as the secrets lurking in the shadows. The story follows Bryce Quinlan, a young woman living the dream until a demon crashes into her life, leading her on a path of determination and revenge in the supernatural world. Alongside the fallen angel, Hunt, Bryce dives into the underbelly of Crescent City, uncovering dark powers and unraveling a suspenseful tale tighter than a dragon's grip.
The book is a fantasy feast for the senses, filled with magic, mystery, and mayhem that leaves readers spellbound. Sarah J. Maas weaves a tale of unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and a twisted plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story is a wild ride of demon slaying, angel enslaving, and heart-throbbing proportions, where love and darkness collide in a passionate struggle for salvation.
The heavy metal door to Griffin Antiquities thudded with the impact of the wolf’s fist—a fist that Bryce knew ended in metallic-purple painted nails in dire need of a manicure. A heartbeat later, a fe...2019•776 pages - #6
A long, twisty, emotional rollercoaster that's perfect for Maas fans and urban fantasy lovers - just be ready for a wild ride and a cliffhanger ending that will have you desperate for the next book.
House of Sky and Breath is a dark fantasy novel set in the world of Crescent City, where the protagonists, Bryce and Hunt, navigate a magical and haunting world filled with angels, demons, fae, and other supernatural beings. The story unfolds with a mystery surrounding the disappearance of Sophie, a rare Thunderbird, and her brother Emil, leading the characters on a quest to uncover corruption and devastating truths. The intricate world-building, well-developed characters, and suspenseful plot keep readers captivated, while the dynamic relationships and steamy scenes add depth and realism to the story.
February 2022•812 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Crescent City ) - #7
Unputdownable dark fantasy romance with intense emotional highs and lows, complex characters, and rich world-building - just make sure you’re ready for a wild, sometimes harrowing ride. Check those content warnings first!
"Rain of Shadows and Endings" in the series "Legacy" by Melissa K Roehrich is a dark fantasy romance set in the modern world where Fae serve the Legacy. The story follows Tessa Fae and Theon Legacy, where Theon chooses Tessa as his source, leading to a dangerous and gripping tale of control, power dynamics, and wild storms. The plot is intense and wild, filled with unanswered questions, betrayals, and intricate character arcs. The writing style is described as captivating, with complex characters, strong world-building, and a perfect balance between darkness and romance.
The book delves deep into themes of mental health, toxic relationships, trauma, and the complexities of power dynamics. Readers praise the emotional depth of the characters, the vulnerability portrayed, and the relatable inner monologues that make the story engaging and thought-provoking. The dynamic between Fae and Legacy characters, along with the intense push and pull relationship between Tessa and Theon, keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover more about the intricate world of Devram.
She trailed off when her gaze landed on who had spoken to her. She could swear darkness swirled faintly in the dark emerald green eyes that were studying her, a slight frown on his full lips. His ebon...August 2023•750 pages - #8
A beautifully tragic, fantasy romance brimming with adventure, heart, and lyrical writing - a must-try for anyone wanting to feel deeply while exploring a fresh take on love and sacrifice.
The Scattered Bones by Nicole Scarano is a captivating romantic fantasy that tells the story of Sellah, a strong and determined heroine on a quest to find the bones of her murdered love, Kaid. Set in a richly built world, the narrative intertwines dual timelines of their passionate love in the past and her struggles in the present, creating an emotional rollercoaster that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The characters are vividly portrayed, with Sellah representing resilience as she faces numerous trials while defying vengeful gods as well as seeking love and salvation.
Scarano's writing style is lyrical and immersive, making the journey of Sellah and Kaid both heart-wrenching and beautiful. The romantic elements are poignant, including moments of humor and heartache that make the reader weep and laugh. The book balances elements of adventure, fantasy, and romance wonderfully, ensuring a satisfying conclusion while also leaving readers wanting more. With its unique story and imaginative concept, The Scattered Bones appeals to both fantasy enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
My scorched skin and chapped lips blister under the enraged sun. Its molten rays burn me, feed on me, punish me as the singed wind beats my flesh. The whipping dust is so thick it braids into my hair,...August 2023•276 pages - #9
A dark, emotional rollercoaster perfect for fans of villain lovers and gritty fantasy romance, but be sure you’re okay with heavy triggers - this isn’t your cozy, feel-good read!
'Feathers so Vicious' in the series 'Court of Ravens' by Liv Zander is a dark fantasy story set in a world at war between humans and raven shifters. The plot evolves around Galantia, who is kidnapped by two ravens, Serbian and Malyr, on her journey to an allied prince's kingdom. The book is filled with steamy moments, angst, and a love triangle/harem romance dynamic. The writing style is described as beautifully written, with excellent world-building and multi-POV storytelling that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
That morning, Mother’s deep-throated groans echoed from her chambers along the balcony of the inner sanctum. They carried through the door and into my room, like they had all night, turning my belly....August 2023•414 pages - #10
A lush, ambitious fantasy with killer world building and dragons galore - perfect for lore lovers and romantasy fans, but the style and pacing won't work for everyone.
'When the Moon Hatched' in the 'Moonfall' series by Sarah A. Parker is a high fantasy romance novel that intricately weaves together magic, fae, dragons, and kick-ass characters. The story follows Raeve, a fierce and morally gray assassin, and Kaan, a heartbroken king, as their paths intersect in a world filled with gods, royal rivalries, and underground revolutionaries. Parker's enchanting writing style immerses readers in a world where emotions run deep, inner struggles are palpable, and the love story between Raeve and Kaan is both poignant and enthralling. The book is a roller coaster of emotions, filled with twists and turns that will leave readers lost for words and eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Sarah A. Parker's 'When the Moon Hatched' stands out for its detailed world-building, complex characters, and emotionally gripping storytelling. The book keeps readers on the edge of their seats with a mix of adventure, longing, mystery, and intrigue, while also delivering a love story that is both heart-wrenching and compelling. The author's ability to capture the feral fearlessness of her characters and bring them to life in a magical world resonates with readers, evoking a range of emotions from happiness to heartbreak. With dragons, angsty love, family dramas, and a plot that thickens with each chapter, Parker's book promises an epic fantasy experience that will linger in the hearts of readers long after they finish reading.
As I twirl the thin iron ring on my middle finger, my gaze climbs the heavily armored guard blocking the gloomy tunnel ahead—arms crossed, his shaved head almost brushing the curved ceiling, a flock o...January 2024•723 pages











