Books To Read After Game Of Thrones: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey bookworms and fantasy fanatics! So, you've finally closed the book (or finished the show, no judgment!) on Game of Thrones and are left with that post-epic-adventure emptiness? Fear not, my friends! I've got your back with a treasure trove of recommendations to fill that Westeros-shaped hole in your heart. We're talking sprawling worlds, complex characters, political intrigue, and enough dragons (or dragon-like creatures) to keep you satisfied. Let's dive into what to read after Game of Thrones, shall we?

Exploring Worlds Beyond Westeros: Epic Fantasy Realms

If you're itching for a new world to get lost in, look no further than the epic fantasy genre. It's the bread and butter of Game of Thrones, and there are countless other series out there waiting to be discovered. For fans of intricate world-building and detailed histories, The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan is a must-read. This series is absolutely massive, so prepare for a commitment, but trust me, it's worth it. Jordan crafts a world filled with magic, prophecies, and political struggles, and then Brandon Sanderson finished the last books after Robert Jordan's passing, and he did an excellent job. You'll find yourself completely immersed in the cultures, the characters, and the sheer scope of this epic journey. The characters are extremely well-developed. The series has everything you'd want in a classic epic fantasy.

• Why You'll Love It: Massive world, complex magic system, diverse cast of characters, and a satisfyingly long story to get lost in.
• For the Fans of: Political intrigue, chosen-one narratives, and intricate world-building.

Another amazing series is The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson. This series is a bit more modern in its style, but it still boasts everything a fantasy lover could want. Sanderson is a master of world-building, and the magic systems in his books are always fascinating and well-defined. The Stormlight Archive is set on the planet Roshar, a world constantly battered by highstorms and populated by unique creatures and societies. The series has a great cast of characters, and each one has a compelling story.

• Why You'll Love It: Incredible magic system, diverse cast of characters, epic scope, and breathtaking world-building.
• For the Fans of: Magic systems, well-developed characters, and a sense of wonder.

Then there's The First Law trilogy and its subsequent books by Joe Abercrombie. If you enjoyed the morally gray characters and gritty realism of Game of Thrones, then this series is tailor-made for you. Abercrombie doesn't shy away from violence, but he also delves deep into the psychology of his characters, creating some of the most compelling and flawed individuals in fantasy. The First Law is a grimdark fantasy. There's no true hero here, everyone is just trying to survive. It's full of dark humor, fast-paced action, and complex characters.

• Why You'll Love It: Morally gray characters, gritty realism, fast-paced action, and a dark sense of humor.
• For the Fans of: Realistic characters, morally ambiguous stories, and a darker tone.

Delving into Political Intrigue: Power Plays and Courtly Drama

One of the most captivating aspects of Game of Thrones was the cutthroat political landscape. If you found yourself drawn to the scheming, backstabbing, and power struggles, then these books will scratch that itch. The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson is a great place to start. This is a fascinating series that throws you into the world of The Masquerade, a colonial empire that has taken over the protagonist's home. Baru is forced to work within the empire, and the reader gets to watch her deal with all the challenges that come along with it.

• Why You'll Love It: Complex political machinations, morally gray characters, and a unique setting.

• For the Fans of: Political intrigue, colonialism, and morally ambiguous protagonists.

• *The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison. In this heartwarming novel, Maia, a half-goblin, half-elf, unexpectedly becomes emperor after a series of unfortunate events. Maia is a kind and gentle soul, and she must navigate the treacherous world of court politics while trying to do what is right. The book is a fantastic read.

• Why You'll Love It: Heartwarming story, unique premise, and a focus on character development.

• For the Fans of: Political intrigue, found family, and a feel-good story.

Expanding Your Horizons: Exploring Diverse Fantasy Settings

Fantasy isn't just about medieval Europe-inspired settings! There's a whole world of diverse settings and cultures to explore. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang is a military fantasy that draws inspiration from 20th-century China. It's a dark and brutal story, but it's also a fascinating exploration of war, trauma, and identity. Kuang's writing is incredibly powerful, and you'll be captivated by Rin's journey.

• Why You'll Love It: Unique setting, powerful writing, and a compelling protagonist.
• For the Fans of: Military fantasy, historical inspiration, and a darker tone.

For something a bit different, check out The Broken Earth trilogy by N.K. Jemisin. This series is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the inhabitants can manipulate the earth. Jemisin's writing is stunning, and she tackles complex themes such as race, class, and identity. It's a truly unforgettable reading experience.

• Why You'll Love It: Unique premise, powerful writing, and a focus on social issues.
• For the Fans of: Post-apocalyptic settings, diverse characters, and a thought-provoking story.

Beyond the Books: Other Media to Explore

While we're at it, let's talk about some other ways to expand your enjoyment. If you're a fan of audiobooks, then many of these series are available in audio format. This is a great way to experience these books while commuting, working out, or doing chores. There are also some fantastic fantasy video games out there that will give you a similar experience.

• Audiobooks: Perfect for enjoying your favorite stories on the go.
• Video Games: The Witcher and Skyrim are great options for anyone looking for a fantasy world to explore.

Tips for Finding Your Next Read

Finding your next favorite book can be a challenge! Here are some tips to help you narrow down your choices and find that next great read. First, consider what you liked most about Game of Thrones. Was it the characters, the world-building, the political intrigue, or the action? Once you know what aspects you enjoyed the most, you can then use these as search parameters. Next, check out reviews on sites like Goodreads and Amazon. Look for books that other Game of Thrones fans have enjoyed. Finally, don't be afraid to try something new! Even if a book isn't exactly what you expected, you might still discover a new favorite.

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits!

So there you have it, folks! A starting point for your journey into the wide world of fantasy. Whether you're looking for a new world to explore, a complex cast of characters to love (or hate), or a thrilling political drama, there's something out there for you. Happy reading, and may your adventures be as epic as the one you just finished!

What books do you recommend? Let me know in the comments below!