9 Best Sword and Sorcery Adventure Novels
Book RaiderSharpen your swords and get ready for a bolt of magic because we're delving into the realm of gutsy warriors and enchanting wizards. Yes, dear readers, it's time to indulge fourteen carat, top-of-the-line, grade-A sword and sorcery adventure novels. As any bookworm worth their librarian’s card will tell you, these aren't just your run-of-the-mill knights rescuing damsels from dragons. Oh no, this is the stuff of power-wielding sorceresses, crooked kingdoms and heroic valour that'll keep you turning pages well past midnight.
You might argue that there's an overwhelming sea of sword and sorcery fiction to wade through, and, in all honesty, you'd not be wrong. It is indeed a goliath genre packed tighter than a wizard’s grimoire. But fret not, young adventurers. This quest won't lead you astray in the land of dreary tales. We're here to help you navigate and find those glittering literary gems, the best of the best that will skyrocket your imagination into worlds of fantastical beasts and epic battles. So saddle up your mystical steeds and let’s embark on this adventurous journey together, one masterful book at a time. It's time to rekindle that love for savage barbarians and mystical magic, all in the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
The First Law Trilogy
by Joe Abercrombie
Why The First Law Trilogy is on this list: Swords? Check. Sorcery? Triple check. Adventure? It's a wild ride from page one. The First Law Trilogy envelops all the right elements to place it comfortably in the Sword and Sorcery genre. Plus, it's a trilogy. That's three books of magic-slinging, sword-swinging merriment for you.
Packed with memorable characters such as a tortured barbarian, a cunning manipulator, and a self-loathing torturer with a complex past, The First Law Trilogy takes you on a thrilling odyssey through war-torn lands brimming with intrigue, dark magic, epic battles, and unexpected twists. This tale ain't about heroes and damsels, it's about the gritty underbelly of a fantasy world, where heroes might be villains and magic comes with a high cost. It's an unputdownable fest for those who take their fantasy raw and visceral.
What readers like: Readers love Abercrombie's knack for subverting typical fantasy tropes, giving them a fresh, realistic twist. They're hooked by the intricate plotlines and the deep and flawed characters who struggle with their own morality. It's one of those 'days are lost to you because you've been reading' kind of trilogies. Many can't resist the intense fight scenes that make you feel you're in the muddy, bloody heart of the action. And did we mention it's ludicrously engaging?
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The Emperor's Blades
by Brian Staveley
Why The Emperor's Blades is on this list: In the Emperor's Blades, Brian Staveley takes us to the places where sword meets sorcery, and the results are equal parts epic and enchanting.
The story spins around two royal siblings discovering their supernatural powers after the sudden assassination of their father, the emperor. With an empire on the brink of chaos, hidden truths to uncover and a brooding nemesis, this novel is a mix of palace intrigue, brutal survival, and mythical creatures.
What readers like: Readers rave about the relatable characters, a darkly twisting plot and immersive world-building that feels kind of like getting lost in a labyrinth... if that labyrinth was full of bloodthirsty monks and war-trained birds. And let's not forget the rush of adrenaline waiting around every corner, thanks to Staveley's sharp, vivid sword fights.
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The Way of Kings
by Brandon Sanderson
Why The Way of Kings is on this list: The Way of Kings is your one-way ticket into an epic world of swords, spells, and riveting sorcery. With a tale steeped in magic and adventure, it masterfully encompasses the theme of the ‘Sword and Sorcery’ adventure genre.
Immerse yourself in the kingdom of Roshar a barren, war-ravaged land punctuated by curse storms and populated by intriguing characters. Our hero, Kaladin, is a slave turned soldier who must grapple with political intrigue, ancient magic, and his own personal demons. Meanwhile, high-born Brightlord Dalinar Kholin is obsessed with an ancient text called 'The Way of Kings', that may hold the key to the survival and the downfall of their world.
What readers like: Readers can't get enough of the book's detailed, immersive world-building and multi-layered characters. They also love Sanderson's knack for balancing epic world-shattering events with more intimate, personal struggles of identity and morality. Plus, with Sanderson's signature mix of wit and wisdom, you're guaranteed more than a few chuckles along the way.
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Gardens of the Moon
by Steven Erikson
Why Gardens of the Moon is on this list: If you're all about magical powers, mysterious relics, epic battles, and heroic quests, this is a sword and sorcery adventure novel you can't afford to miss. Plus, did we mention swords? Lot's of them.
Gardens of the Moon brings you to a world filled with magical hocus-pocus, where gods meddle in the fate of mortals and empires alike. It's the first book in the epic series 'The Malazan Book of the Fallen'. The story unfolds with the empire of Malazan looking to expand its dominance, a prophecy that triggers a whirlwind of events, and a band of unlikely allies who are the only hope against the rising tide of dark powers.
What readers like: Readers enjoy the elegantly built world, with its complex plot, fleshed-out characters and the series’ ability to just blow you away at every corner. Also, there's a general consensus that Gardens of the Moon has the rare quality of getting better with every read. So, potentially, it's several books for the price of one. Now, that's what you call a bargain.
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Blood Song
by Anthony Ryan
Why Blood Song is on this list: If you're a fan of ancient lore, mighty swords, and glaring sorcery, nicely wrapped up in a grand epic, then Anthony Ryan's Blood Song is your cup of magic potion. It's a superb example of the sword and sorcery adventure genre, with just the right kick of everything you like.
Blood Song takes you to a world teeming with knights, warriors, magic-wielders, and the gritty politics of warring kingdoms. Its trudging hero is Vaelin Al Sorna, a child pushed into the grim throes of a warrior life. As we follow every step of his trials, we get to bear witness to his growth, strength, heroics, and seriously intense battles, all the while chased by sinister shadows of prophecies. Yeah, sounds like your typical Saturday, right?
What readers like: Fans of Blood Song rave about the well-developed characters, the thick aura of mystery, and the fantastic fight scenes that'll probably get you lifting your bed to workout. And don't overlook the nuanced world-building that ain't just a playing field for the melee but a character in its own right. So, if you've got a taste for a compelling, action-packed, with wholesome magic seasoned narrative, Blood Song is your perfect match. Just don't forget to sharpen your imaginary sword first!
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The Name of the
by Patrick Rothfuss
Why The Name of the is on this list: The Name of the Wind dishes out classic sword and sorcery vibes in ample quantities, peppered with thrilling adventures that make it a perfect fit in our list.
This captivating novel takes you on a through time as its protagonist, Kvothe, a legendary wizard now disguised as an innkeeper, narrates the tale of his past. It's a packed with magic, dragons, assassins, love, music, and the quest to uncover the deepest secrets of his world. Oh, and lots of sword swinging, naturally.
What readers like: Readers adore the depth and originality of this world Rothfuss has so expertly crafted. The magic system in particular is enticing due to its unique concept and application. This coupled with Rothfuss's truly captivating storytelling style and his knack for characterisation makes The Name of the Wind an unforgettable reading experience.
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The Dragon's Path
by Daniel Abraham
Why The Dragon's Path is on this list: The Dragon’s Path is an absolute feast for lovers of sword and sorcery tales. It delivers everything you'd expect from this genre - trusty swords, potent sorcery, and grand adventures.
This novel tees you up for a monumental battle between humans and dragons. We follow the lives of a cast of intriguing characters, each with their dreams and secrets. Expect an ensemble of lords and ladies, soldiers, sorcerers, a young girl who is so much more than she appears. As a bonus, anticipate some backdoor politics and economics that rattle the very foundation of their world.
What readers like: Readers rave about the multi-layered, detailed world Abraham creates. They love the deep character developments and the intense and planned plotting that keeps them glued to the book. The subtle humor and emotional hooks also keep readers coming back for more of this series.
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City of Stairs
by Robert Jackson Bennett
Why City of Stairs is on this list: Chock-full of magic, multi-dimensional characters, fantastic world-building, and heart-stopping sword fights, City of Stairs doesn't shy at all from delivering some much-needed entertainment via a top-class sword and sorcery adventure.
The book spans the staggering city of Bulikov, where heavenly beings called Divinities once ruled and left remnant wonders and horrors. When an embittered scholar is murdered, Shara Thivani (a spymaster type with a hidden blade up her sleeve, literally) and her 'secretary' (a hulk of a man more at home with an axe than a pen) delve into a web of intrigue and ancient magic in the divine city. And let's not forget the stairs - oh, so many stairs!
What readers like: Readers love the hybrid mystery-fantasy plot that keeps them on their toes with shocking twists and turns. Bennett's impressive storytelling, his creation of a unique, compelling universe, and his sly injection of political and theological discussions make this a multi-layered read. Hardcore fans and casual readers alike just can't resist the charms of its bad-ass, book-loving heroine and the extraordinary world she navigates.
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Prince of Thorns
by Mark Lawrence
Why Prince of Thorns is on this list: If you're craving for a compelling mix of swords and sorcery, thrown in with a dash of adventure, then Lawrence's 'Prince of Thorns' has got you covered. It's like stepping into a rich, mystical feast cooked up by a master chef — where the entree is gripping action, the side dish is daring quests, and dessert is spellbinding magic.
The story circles around Jorg Ancrath, a prince who seeks revenge after witnessing the brutal murder of his mother and brother. He doesn't fancy the traditional palace life; instead, he heads into a wild journey, leading a band of outlaws in a brutal world full of darkness and chaos. This is no smooth sailing adventure; Jorg faces monstrous creatures, sorcerers, and all sorts of magic while trying to claim his throne.
What readers like: Readers seem to have a soft spot for our hero Jorg. Despite his dark side, they can't seem to get enough of his complex character, sharp wit and willpower. The book's gritty and graphic descriptions, combined with Lawrence’s enthralling writing style, keep them glued to the pages. And the novel's intense blend of bloody battles, mystical elements, and unexpected plot twists seem to give them quite the adrenaline rush.
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