Written by Adelina McCall
Game of Thrones producers broke the hearts of many last month as the series finale aired capturing the attention of millions.
If you have been following the epic fantasy series, then you have probably heard the backlash the producers and HBO team are facing over how they approached the final season. It has even escalated to the point where a petition has been circulating the Internet in which frustrated viewers speak out against how the Thrones team decided to end the ever so popular TV series after eight dramatic seasons. As George. R. R Martin, author of the famous series and now TV show, has yet to complete the final two books in the series, some fans believe that the Thrones team did not do Martin’s ideas justice and that an alternate ending is needed. On the other hand, die-hard fans are just sad that the adventure is over and as such await the remaining books to be published.
In the meantime, if you are looking for post-Game of Thrones books to fill that empty void you may be feeling, then I highly recommend the following novels, many of which are also epic fantasy series in which may help you move on!.
A Time of Dread (Of Blood and Bone Series) by John Gwynne
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
A Time of Dread, the first book in the Of Blood and Bone Series, has captured the attention of many seeking the next best epic fantasy series. It is a fiery tale written by the well-known epic fantasy author, John Gwynne, who tells a story of the Banished Lands, a previously used setting in some of his other fantasy novels. Gwynne has created yet another masterpiece in the eyes of many and I strongly recommend reading this novel as well as the sequel, A Time of Blood.
The Broken Empire Trilogy by Mark Lawrence
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
In search of a new series about the rise to power? Look no further by picking up The Broken Empire Trilogy by Mark Lawrence. This series consists of 3 novels and follows the main protagonist by the name of Jorg Ancrath who attempts to rise up the ranks in the setting of post-apocalyptic Europe. Having the title of Prince of Throns (ironically the name of the first book in the series), Ancrath faces many challenges, including have to come face-to-face with his childhood fears. This series is both captivating and thrilling and will leave you wanting more as you move from one book to the next!
The Name of The Wind (Kingkiller Chronicles) by Patrick Rothfuss
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
If you are looking to add a magical touch to your TBR list then look no further! The Name of the Wind is a fictional tale written by Patrick Rothfuss and has a unique voice to it as it is told by the main character himself Kvothe (otherwise known as “the man of many names” as he takes on many titles throughout series). This series has almost a memoir feel to it as Kvothe tells his story to The Chronicler from start to finish, over a three-day period. Despite the lack of climatic battle scenes, The Name of The Wind is an intriguing, mysterious novel that should definitely be added to your #TBR if you are searching for something to get out of your post-GoT depression.
The City by Stella Gemmell
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
The City, a compelling dark-fantasy novel by debut author Stella Gemmell, has caught the attention of many over the last few years as she tells a powerful tale about overcoming the darkness and fear that has taken over The City. The City, a now-abandoned void, is thought to be the home to an ancient emperor for who very little truth is known. This heroic tale against the powers of evil will have you reading this book from start to finish in one sitting!
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
Black Leopard, Red Wolf has captured the hearts of many with its breath-taking entrance into the fantasy literary world. This novel is the first novel in The Dark Star Trilogy and has been compared to famous epic fantasies such as Tolkien’s work and has even been called “An African Game of Thrones”. 620 pages of adventure, thoughtful character analysis, and, of course, loads of excitement! A definite read for all those fantasy-lovers out there!
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
Since we are talking about must-read epic fantasies, how could we not forget the classics? The Lord of The Rings changed the fantasy game by creating a world of its own. From The Fellowship of The Ring to The Return of The King, you will become a part of Middle Earth as you read through the histories and adventures of dear Frodo and Sam, two hobbits living in The Shire. Embark with them on their epic journey through Mordor and enjoy the different characters you meet along the way!
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
Throne of Glass tells a powerful story surrounding a young assassin by the name of Celaena Sardothien who must now fight for her freedom after receiving an opportunity to obtain a royal pardon from the Crown Prince himself. This book, with a strong female lead, tells a compelling tale as you follow Celaena through her triumphs as she fights for her freedom as well as her survival!
The Axe & The Throne by M.D. Ireman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
Said to have “Game of Thrones-style-tales”, The Axe & The Throne has become a fan-favourite among all high-fantasy genre lovers. This detail-friendly novel follows a man by the name of Tallos on his quest to rescue his friend’s oldest son who has been taken by the Northmen a group of people you would not want to be caught with alone. This novel causes all sorts of emotions and will keep you reading until the very end. With a strong fictional world and endless character development, you would be a fool not to add this book to your next epic-fantasy TBR!
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson (The Stormlight Achieve Series)
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
If you’re looking for a nice-long epic-fantasy read, then you have stumbled upon the right book for you! Brandon Sanderson’s, 1008-page novel, The Way of Kings contains all the critical elements of an epic fantasy and will leave you immersed in the wonderful world of Roshar – a world of stone and storms. With excellent world-building details and character development, this is for sure a Sanderson classic and strongly recommended to those die-hard GoT fans out there.
The Priory of The Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository
Being one of the most-talked about fantasy novels circling the literary world in 2019, The Priory of The Orange Tree tells a tale like no other. Its unique setting and characters will have you attempting to read this book cover to cover just so you can find out what happens at the end! A definite highly recommended read for anyone looking for a new release fantasy!
Game of Thrones was/is such a heavy watch/read. It is definitely one of my favorite television and book series of all time but when this season ended I was desperately looking for a fantasy book that was a bit more light-hearted and fun and one where I didn’t have to worry about all my favorite characters getting murdered. I highly recommend “The King Who Disappeared” by author Hank Quense (http://hankquense.org/wp/). This is a highly topical, satirical, fantasy quest novel that made me smile throughout. King Bohan, his wizard, and guards have been trapped in a cave by the evil Wizard, Jerado, who is now running all of the kingdoms in Gundarland. 200 years later there is an earthquake and the king who disappeared is free and ready for revenge. A lot can change in 200 years and Bohan gets himself into some pretty funny situations due to his lack of knowledge about current affairs and the world he left behind. The book has all the typical elements of a fantasy novel; wizards, elves, kings and queens but I have found that many fantasy books with villains and wizards can be very dark (ahem, like Game of Thrones!). This story has some dark elements. but the humor and satire prevail along with a lot of action and entertainment along the way. If you want something light and enjoyable after Game of Thrones definitely check out this book.