Why You Need More Epic Fantasy
This guide covers everything about Books Like Game of Thrones: Your 2026 Guide. The allure of Westeros, with its intricate political webs, morally ambiguous characters, and the ever-present threat of dragons and winter, has captivated millions. When George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series left readers hanging, a significant void was created in the epic fantasy landscape. As of May 2026, the demand for stories that replicate that unique blend of gritty realism, complex character arcs, and sweeping world-building remains incredibly high.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
If you’re searching for that next immersive saga, you’re not alone. Many readers seek books that offer a similar depth and intensity, filled with power struggles, betrayals, and unforgettable characters. This guide dives into the most compelling epic fantasy series that capture the spirit of Game of Thrones.
Key Takeaways
- Look for series with intricate political maneuvering and complex character relationships.
- Morally grey protagonists and antagonists are a hallmark of the Game of Thrones style.
- Richly detailed world-building with unique cultures, histories, and magic systems is essential.
- Themes of power, betrayal, and the consequences of ambition are common.
- Many recommended series feature dragons or similar formidable mythical creatures.
The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
Joe Abercrombie is often lauded as the king of grimdark fantasy, and for good reason. His First Law trilogy—comprising The Blade Itself, Before They Are Hanged, and The Last Argument of Kings—is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling with a decidedly dark edge.
The series follows a cast of deeply flawed individuals, including the infamous Logen Ninefingers, a brutal barbarian warrior, and Sand dan Glokta, a cynical, torturing inquisitor. Abercrombie excels at subverting fantasy tropes, presenting characters who are often selfish, cruel, and driven by base desires rather than noble quests. The political machinations are ruthless, and the world feels grimy and realistic, eschewing traditional heroic arcs for a more nuanced, often bleak, portrayal of conflict and ambition.
The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
For readers who crave immense scope and intricate lore, Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen series is an unparalleled choice. This sprawling 10-book saga is renowned for its densely packed mythology, vast array of characters, and complex magic systems.
The series doesn’t hold your hand. It plunges readers into a world teeming with ancient races, ascendants, gods, and a brutal, millennia-long war. The narrative often jumps between different continents, time periods, and perspectives, demanding significant reader engagement. While it can be challenging, the reward is a richly realised world and a profound exploration of themes like war, compassion, and the nature of history.
Experience Signal: Navigating the Malazan series for the first time can feel like deciphering an ancient text. However, once the major threads begin to connect, typically around the third or fourth book, the sheer brilliance of Erikson’s interconnected storytelling becomes apparent. The payoff for this investment is immense.
The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson is a titan of modern fantasy, known for his meticulous world-building and innovative magic systems. The Stormlight Archive, his magnum opus, is set on the storm-swept world of Roshar, a land where colossal highstorms reshape the landscape and life itself.
This series features a unique magic system tied to ‘Surgebinding,’ a form of elemental manipulation, and ‘Nahel bonds’ with sentient spren (spirit companions). The narrative weaves together multiple character perspectives, including Kaladin Stormblessed, a former surgeon turned slave soldier; Shallan Davar, a lighteyed noblewoman with a secret mission; and Dalinar Kholin, a highprince grappling with visions of the past and future. Sanderson’s commitment to detailed magic, epic battles, and profound character arcs makes this a must-read for fans of grand-scale fantasy.
The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb
Robin Hobb’s Farseer Trilogy—starting with Assassin’s Apprentice—offers a more intimate, character-focused take on epic fantasy, centred on the life of FitzChivalry Farseer, the bastard son of a royal heir.
Fitz’s journey is one of hardship, loyalty, and difficult choices. The series excels in its portrayal of Fitz’s complex relationships, particularly his bond with his loyal wolf, Nighteyes, and his enigmatic mentor, Chade. Hobb masterfully explores themes of duty, identity, and the personal cost of power. While it might not have the overt political backstabbing of Game of Thrones, the emotional depth and character-driven stakes are equally compelling. The magic system, involving a psychic ability called the ‘Wit’ and a darker skill called the ‘Charming’, is subtle yet impactful.
The Broken Earth Trilogy by N. K. Jemisin
N. K. Jemisin’s critically acclaimed Broken Earth trilogy, beginning with The Fifth Season, is a groundbreaking work of speculative fiction that blends elements of fantasy and science fiction. Set on a supercontinent called the Stillness, which suffers from catastrophic climate events known as ‘Fifth Seasons’ that can last for centuries, the story follows multiple protagonists whose lives are shaped by oppression and survival.
The series features a unique magic system centred on ‘orogenes’, individuals who can control geological forces but are feared and persecuted. Jemisin’s narrative is bold, often experimental, and tackles themes of systemic oppression, trauma, motherhood, and the fight for survival with unflinching honesty. The world-building is stark and powerful, mirroring the harsh environment of the Stillness.
Experience Signal: Jemisin’s use of second-person narration in parts of The Fifth Season is a bold stylistic choice that immediately immerses the reader in the protagonist’s desperate reality. This narrative daring is characteristic of her unique approach to storytelling, setting her work apart.
The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time is one of the most expansive and beloved epic fantasy series ever written, spanning 14 main novels and a prequel. It presents a world deeply rooted in cyclical history, prophecy, and a vast, complex magic system known as the One Power.
The narrative centres on Rand al’Thor and his companions, who are revealed to be the potential reincarnation of the Dragon, a prophesied figure destined to save the world from the Dark One. The series is celebrated for its immense cast of characters, detailed cultures, and a world that feels ancient and lived-in. While the later books can become quite lengthy, the sheer scale of the story and its exploration of destiny versus free will make it a worthy successor for Game of Thrones fans.
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
No discussion of epic fantasy is complete without mentioning J.R.R. Tolkien’s foundational work, The Lord of the Rings. While often seen as more overtly heroic and less morally grey than Game of Thrones, it shares the DNA of rich world-building, complex lore, and a grand struggle against a dark, all-consuming evil.
Tolkien’s creation of Middle-earth, complete with detailed languages, histories, and mythologies, set the standard for much of modern fantasy. The journey of Frodo Baggins and the Fellowship to destroy the One Ring is a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the corrupting nature of power. It provides a more traditional epic fantasy experience but with a depth that remains unmatched for many readers.
The Divided Kingdoms Series by Fran Widjaja
For a more contemporary series that echoes Game of Thrones’ political intrigue and character-driven conflicts, consider Fran Widjaja’s Divided Kingdoms series, starting with The Dragon’s Legacy. This series is set in a world where magic is fading and political alliances are fragile.
Widjaja focuses on multiple viewpoints, exploring the lives of characters caught in the crossfire of warring nations and ancient prophecies. The series delivers on complex schemes, personal vendettas, and high stakes that will feel familiar to fans of Martin’s work. It’s a great example of how newer authors are building upon the foundations laid by giants like Martin and Tolkien.
The Riftwar Saga and The Serpentwar Saga by Raymond E. Feist and Janny Wurts
Raymond E. Feist’s Riftwar Saga (beginning with Magician: Apprentice) and Janny Wurts’ standalone Daughter of the Empire (set within Feist’s world) offer fantastic examples of political intrigue and character-focused fantasy. Daughter of the Empire, co-authored by Feist and Wurts, is particularly renowned for its intricate plotting and exploration of a matriarchal society obsessed with honour and strategy.
These series explore the complexities of court politics, espionage, and the long-term consequences of decisions made by powerful individuals. The world-building is extensive, with multiple cultures and unique magical elements. If the intricate machinations of the various houses in Game of Thrones appealed to you, the strategic depth found in these sagas will be highly engaging.
Comparing Epic Fantasy Choices
Choosing your next epic fantasy read can feel daunting, given the vastness of the genre. While each series offers unique strengths, certain elements consistently appeal to Game of Thrones fans.
| Series Title | Author | Key Strengths | Game of Thrones Similarities |
|---|---|---|---|
| The First Law | Joe Abercrombie | Grimdark tone, morally grey characters, brutal realism | Political intrigue, anti-heroes, cynical worldview |
| The Malazan Book of the Fallen | Steven Erikson | Massive scope, complex lore, intricate world-building | Vast history, many factions, grand scale conflict |
| The Stormlight Archive | Brandon Sanderson | Innovative magic systems, detailed world, character arcs | Epic battles, complex societies, detailed lore |
| The Farseer Trilogy | Robin Hobb | Deep character development, emotional resonance, subtle magic | Loyalty, personal cost of power, intricate relationships |
| The Broken Earth | N. K. Jemisin | Bold narrative, social commentary, unique magic | Oppression, survival, harsh environments, unique powers |
| The Wheel of Time | Robert Jordan | Expansive world, detailed magic, prophecy | Large cast, prophecy, long-term conflict |
Common Pitfalls for Epic Fantasy Readers
One common mistake when seeking books like Game of Thrones is expecting an exact replica. While these recommendations share thematic and stylistic elements, each author brings a unique voice and approach. Some readers might find Malazan overwhelming due to its initial complexity, or The First Law too bleak if they are seeking more traditional heroic narratives.
Another pitfall is overlooking series that might be slightly outside the typical ‘epic fantasy’ box but share core elements. For instance, some readers might dismiss books with strong political focus if they don’t immediately see dragons, missing out on excellent, intricate plots.
Expert Tips for Your Next Read
When choosing your next epic fantasy series, consider what aspects of Game of Thrones you enjoyed most. Was it the political intrigue? The grim realism? The complex characters? The dragons?
For instance, if political maneuvering was your favourite aspect, Abercrombie’s The First Law or the Daughter of the Empire novel are excellent choices. If you crave intricate world-building and magic systems, Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive or Erikson’s Malazan series will likely satisfy that craving. Reading reviews and synopses, paying attention to themes like ‘grimdark’, ‘political fantasy’, or ‘character-driven’ can help narrow down your selection. As of May 2026, many of these series are well-established, offering ample reading material to dive into.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the darkest fantasy series like Game of Thrones?
Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law trilogy is widely considered one of the darkest and most grimdark fantasy series available, featuring deeply flawed characters and brutal realism.
Are there books with dragons similar to Game of Thrones?
Yes, many epic fantasy series feature dragons. While not always central, they often play significant roles in stories like Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive or George R. R. Martin’s own prequel, Fire & Blood.
What series has the most complex world-building like Game of Thrones?
Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen is renowned for its unparalleled complexity, featuring millennia of history, dozens of cultures, and an extensive cast of characters across its vast world.
Which books focus on political intrigue similar to Game of Thrones?
For pure political scheming, consider Janny Wurts’ Daughter of the Empire or Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law, both of which excel at portraying ruthless ambition and courtly backstabbing.
Where can I find more recommendations for epic fantasy?
Online forums like Reddit’s r/Fantasy, dedicated fantasy book blogs, and publisher websites like Penguin Random House and Pan Macmillan often feature curated lists and discussions for epic fantasy fans.
Is The Stormlight Archive suitable for Game of Thrones fans?
Absolutely. The Stormlight Archive offers grand scale, epic battles, complex societies, and detailed lore, which are all elements cherished by Game of Thrones fans, albeit with a different magic system and tone.
What is the best starting point for epic fantasy after Game of Thrones?
For many, Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law trilogy provides an immediate, gripping, and thematically similar experience to Game of Thrones, making it an excellent starting point.
Last reviewed: May 2026. Information current as of publication; pricing and product details may change.
Source: IMDb
Editorial Note: This article was researched and written by the Great Magazine editorial team. We fact-check our content and update it regularly. For questions or corrections, contact us. Knowing how to address Books Like Game of Thrones: Your 2026 Guide early makes the rest of your plan easier to keep on track.
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