@@ebnovels Don't listen to them, I like the way you just lay out the information objectively and just add a few subtle subjective remarks, your opinions and personality still show through without dominating the content of the video. Feel free to make specific "hot-take" videos for that if you want to because I could see that being fun, but for videos like this the format works perfectly! :)
I had never heard about him before, but judging by the wikipedia article, it looks as if he could give Raymond E. Feist (33 novels so far) a fierce run for the money.
Gentleman Bastards! I can forgive not including A Song of Ice and Fire (coz everybody and their mother are talking about it), but not including Scott Lynch' masterpiece is a missed opportunity.
When you are reading Wheel of time but you also wanna read Name of the wind, Dark tower, Gentleman bastards, First law, Lightbringer and more but your time is limited.
We have all been there. I say take a break from Wheel of Time and enjoy some of these other more modern works The Name of the Wind is super awesome and less of a commitment than Wheel of Time.
I read all of Wheel of Time, but when I started years ago I was looking for a book that stood alone and the librarian at the time said she thought this was a stand alone book so I read it only to discover there were going to be many more so it gave something for the librarian and me to laugh about over the years as each new book came out.I liked the Wheel of Time I must have I read them all and I liked the librarian.
This is my first time listening to you and I'm very impressed. You're well informed and articulate, and there isn't a trace of arrogance in you or your content. In fact, you clearly go out of your way to allow for different points of view. I was also delighted by the completeness of the attached bibliography. I can't wait to listen to your other videos!
Why not? I understand that it might be a long wait for the 3rd book, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't read it. I knew that going in and still read it. I have 0 regrets about it. It was amazing and I will definitely reread many more times.
@@CallmeJochem Was more commenting her recommending the series for new to the genre than the quality of the series. They were great but not a great way to start yourself in fantasy when you are immediately greeted with 2+ years of waiting.
Yeah, I was surprised that was suggested as a starting book as there is literally no end in sight. Rothfuss has been sidetracked by so many other things that I don't think it is remotely possible for that series to be finished or have a satisfying ending. It is way to large to be finished in one book, unless he does a hack job, and if it has to be more than one book, he'll more likely pass away before finishing the follow up book.
This video is over 25 minutes long. I can tell you worked very hard on this. You always produce such great content for us. I appreciate your channel so very much. Thank you.
From all 10 of these series mentioned, I've read every book from all the series (not just one or two books from each series) except for Robert Jordans Wheel of Time (haven't started yet, so daunting) and the Steven Erikson's Malazan series (read the first book only and never picked up anymore because of it). Having said that, I will probably look back into the Malazan series as the description in this overview was spot on for me and the exact reasons why I didn't continue with the series. The whole Patrick Rothfuss fiasco is so incredibly frustrating that I'm not even sure if I'm going to bother reading the final book. At the very least I won't be buying it, maybe I'll borrow it and read it, but I just can't justify supporting him any longer. All in all, my point is that this video is fantastic and really covers these titles very well. Earned a sub no doubt!
Storm light, in particular,Way of Kings, is a great read. The Malazan will stay with you, the author is an anthropologist and he uses that in his books. It stays with you more than most fantasy books.
It's interesting that she said you could skip the first book. That might work for some people. If anyone out there is thinking about giving Malazan a try, book 2 & 3 are the ones that really hook you in. I read the second book about 3 years ago, and I still think about it regularly.
Malazan is my favourite, I think it's probably the best fleshed out world in that it's really well thought out but there isn't a character who has complete understanding of what's happening.
1. The Black Company by Glen Cook. 12 Projected books, a rather dark and follows the adventures of a mercenary company. There is a D&D sourcebook for it, so I guess it was a little popular at some point. Last volume is still awaiting publication. None of you fantasy book youtubers seem to know about this one. 2. The Deed of Paksinarion by Elizabeth Moon (Vol 1 Sheep Farmer's Daughter) is a more standard fantasy on the surface, but it deep dives on the idea of "What IS a paladin?" She is still releasing books in the second arc of this story, also for some reason not covered by youtubers.
Yes, the Witcher in polish is a masterpiece. Words used, sentences build, all the details are stunning. I was amazed while reading it the first time. I thought the books are famous because the story is good but the writing itself is an art, something to enjoy. It's like looking at an amazing painting or sculpture and see the talent behind the artist. What is also great (and most probably lost in translations) is how he treats the reader. He expect one to know what he means withoult explaining it fully and it's such a great feeling that the reader is not treated like a clueless child.
I don't speak Polish. The translation is awkward. There are errors that a good editor would have picked up. I feel the translation is too respectful to the Polish and too tight. A liberal translation might have improved the readability. I have read one of the short stories in German, a long time ago, admittedly but I don't recall having to double think a sentence.
@@selenophile410 The only thing I can think of are fan made translations. I didn't look into it, just heard they exist. Probably only fragments though.
If the original mastery is lost in translation then the translator did not do a good job. Simple as that, a shitty translator. Those of us who are non-native english speakers are painfully aware of what a gem a good translation is.
Very informative, thank you. The "must read" adult fantasy series of all time for me would have to be the "Magician" series by Raymond E Feist. His writing style is unique & his ability to put you in the picture with a relatively few words is brilliant. He can do in a paragraph what David Eddings or Robin Hobb take a page and a half to do. Although character driven, the plot is rich & complex. It takes several main character story-lines and blends them seamlessly into the overall picture. I read the first book "Magician" in 3 days , then devoured the 2nd & 3rd books in a single 22 hour sitting. (they were that good!).
Great video! Sorry for my bad English but I would also like to recommend the Discworld series by Terry Pratchett. While most people probably think of violence and sex when it comes to 'adult' media, Pratchett pulled it off create a very believable magical world through the use of humor. A world which manages to beautifully parody many different cultural aspects of our modern western societies while still maintaining a very natural and cohesive feel to this fantasy setting that also manages to show some surprising dark sides from time to time. There are a ton of books centered around many different characters and events within that world that are somewhat losely chronologically connected with each other but basically you can just pick up any of these books and give it a read to find out if this kind of fantasy is something for you. His books have had me giggle at first, only to be shocked and thrilled within the turn of a page far too many times to not mention them here.
The Malazan Book of the Fallen is such a good series. It's a shame that most people don't have the will to go through the first few books without deciding on it.
Guys, I have started "wheel of time" 3 times now. the first boook drags soooo much! Should i persist?? I love LOTR which i read when i was 12, and i dont remember it feeling so slow.
lemme tell you. best world spectacle you can get, with so many characters and stories. It has it's writing style flaws, but i love the story. Bigger and better than LOTR.
I didn't like the series at all. I felt like I could skip books and still not miss a thing. The female characters started to grate on my nerves and they all seemed to merge into each other at one point.
Robert Jordan was known for his detail get past the first book to the second best choice you ever made trust me also you could skim over the first book as most of it is detail
I would agree that Robin Hobb's story can appear to be a slower pace, but over the course of the books this draws you in to their world so effectively - hence the trauma you experience as a reader. Just amazing. However I also enjoy the faster paced and more punchy First Law series, Lightbringer and Mistborn. Great job with the reviews.
Is it really? I mean it's the end of the "Lightbringer" series but it baits sequels hard. Might be another series of a different name in the same world at some point.
@@qqq386 Yeah I've been a big fan of the series since it started but the payoff was so poor. Love Brent Weeks but man it reeked of deus ex mahcina and was just generally underwhelming.
@@Mwezi828 I enjoyed it, I liked the religious elements of the story and it was interesting to see direct intervention. Plus I love where the characters ended up.
Late to the party, but I do agree, Malazan is the greatest thing ever. Even the first book is better than say, a Song of Ice and Fire, by miles. Personally I did think the characters showed a lot of emotion and development, even though the first book was mostly used to set up a lot of mystery to be followed up in the later books. It doesn't hold your hand and you need to be able to ..let some things go, from book to book...., but it's worth the journey. In fact, I don't think there is a better journey currently in existence.
Quick question, hopefully no spoilers. Gardens of the moon captivated me with its unique style, then I red Deadhouse gates which is the best book I've ever red. I really liked most of Memories of Ice as well. However I was very displeased with book 4, and book 5 was just too philosophical and lacked the panache of the first 3. That said my question what should I expect if I continue reading and do book 6-10 resemble more the first 3 or book 4-5? Cheers!
@@MadcookieBG I can only say that the books at the end are truly amazing. In my opinion. Extremely satisfying. Because of the style of writing and the embodiment of the characters, if you somehoe dislike some of the main cast, some books will fall flat, but I honestly can say that all of it comes together brilliantly. Not that all questions are answered, a sequal is coming after all.
@@MadcookieBG they are more like 4 and 5, but still awesome and with enough action to keep you going along (Kharkanas trilogy is even more philosophical, very challenging and deep content,Is like the author started exploring that path). But, even with that in mind is really one of the greatest series ever made, so you should go on!
when you mentioned the farseer trilogy i started sobbing, thats how much i loved all of the realm of the elderlings books. the emotional connectiones between the characters (cough cough nighteyes) is a masterpiece. i really want to reread it but i know a part of the book will tear me apart again, and i cant go through that again.
There is actually 9 books of the Fitz story by Robin Hobb. Her magic of the books is the emotional aspect. I have read them all several times (except the latest one only one time) and every time I cry my eyes out on certain parts of the books, even though I know what will happen. Robin Hobb is amazing writer when it comes to emotions.
i look at it like Raymond e Feist world... there are 8 books( i have read anyway) outside the nine Fitz/Fool series as well that really flesh the story of the world... there is a plot point woven through all of them deep down.
regarding Robin Hobb, i think her writing is incredible. while her books, perhaps, have less immediacy about them, the way Hobb crafts her world and characters is subtle. you learn about the people in her books as if you were right there observing them. and more than most fantasy i've read, i feel like they are people i know and care about. They are ever evolving, changed by their experiences. even if the plot isn't barrelling forward, the time you spend with these characters is worthwhile. which is not to say that there is no action, just that when there isn't, Hobb is capable of crafting scenes which are not just flowery descriptions of a place which drag on to the distant horizon. with all that being said, Hobb's first two books in the trilogy are pacier than the last (this becomes a trait for her subsequent trilogies, as well). and i find her endings suffer from being a little anti-climactic, despite large world changing events occurring. if you finish The Farseer Trilogy and are keen to return to the Realm of the Elderlings, you'll probably want to jump straight back in with Fitz et al. but you'll notice that there is a trilogy that stands in your way. i would recommend that you don't skip it in your haste to return to old friends. there are significant lore reveals which are worth experiencing inside of the narrative, not to mention a new host of characters which will become just as dear as Fitz and his friends. also, it's worth knowing that when you do return to Fitz, some time will have passed and he will not be unchanged. so, if anything, a jaunt south of the six duchies might allow for a less jarring transition!
Robin Hobb is a magician when it comes to creating characters. In my opinion she is unsurpassed. I always prefer character driven stories and her Farseer, Tawny Man and Mad Ship novels are perfect examples of this. Her characters are so meticulously crafted that you can well imagine them living their lives even after you've read the final page, that's how real and believable they are. Fitz, The Fool, Nighteyes and Burrich are my favourite characters in all of literature.
The fact that the characters were so well done completely made me forget about the overall arch of the story at the beginning and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see more of each. Then the story developed out of nowhere for me and it was a good surprise. It felt for parts of it that I could predict the ending and general story but boy was I wrong. 😂 I have read all the books twice now and am starting the new series with the children of some of the characters from the main trilogy.
Did you find anything even remotely similar to all of joe Abercrombies books. They left a hole in my heart which i am unable to fill with any book i tried so many different books but nothing come close to
When I read them years ago the next book was supposed to be out the following year. I hope it is true but I will hold out hope until we get an official announcement.
@Ryan Patrick said these where only a prequel to the main story. So if the third book comes out it will only be the conclusion of his back story with more to follow.
I have been reading Malazan for a year now an I am on 8th book. It is a huge commitment and sometimes the story seems disconnected but as it goes on everything starts to connect. I like this series a lot. As it explains a lot of things and also leaves a lot to imagination.
I was surprised to not see Tad Williams' trilogy Sorrow, Memory, and Thorn make the list, as Tad is one of the stronger Adult Fantasy writers out there right now. I *highly* recommend him if you've not had a chance to read his stuff. His world-building is wonderful and realistic?/cohesive, and his characters are fantastic. He's also currently in the process of writing a new trilogy that takes place in the same world of SM&T about 60ish years later, and that's absolutely wonderful too. "This is a true story, if words can be true. If not, then these are only words." -- The Heart of What was Lost, preface
If you enjoyed Farseer PLEASE DO NOT SKIP LIVESHIP TRADERS and go directly to Tawney man(the second Fitz series). Having the connections between these seemingly unrelated series reveal themselves is is amazing.
1st Law definitely becomes plots within plots throughout the series. Just finished the series and now it's one of my favorites. Agreed that the first book is all character development but it pays off in spades. Keep up the good work!
Elliot Brooks and please don’t skip the standalone novels (or even Sharp Ends, the collection of short stories). They are probably the best of the series.
I agree - Abercrombie's story crafting weaves it together into a complex pattern over the course of the books (and is ongoing) which brings the world to life for me.
This is a good video BUT it's a high level overview and not very comprehensive per se. Also Mistborn's first trilogy is YA. Stormlight is borderline adult fantasy - Sanderson's stuff barely qualifies as "ADULT fantasy". It kinda underlines the uselessness of the category TBH. I tend to agree with most everything you say about the books but no Tad Williams, or Stephen Donaldson. Thomas Covenant was one of the first ADULT fantasy series that I ever came across and one of the longest running too. And no Elric! Seriously - read Elric of Melnibone and the rest of Michael Moorcock's work - without him none of this stuff (Malazan, Witcher, WoT) exists. And no Ursula Le Guin - without Earthsea there is no The Name of the Wind.
I'd like to add to the list the huge universe from R. A. Salvatore, evolving around the drow Drizzt D'Urden and his adventures. There are many books, and it's really a commitment to be entering this universe, which is - in my opinion - both story- and character driven
@@mirandapratt4506 As the series was originally supposed to be shorter, and was started in 1984, I would assume at the start he fully intended to finish the series. He was partially through the 14th/15th (depending on perspective) book, when he died.
The Witcher short stories are fantastic, I loved them a lot. One of them in particular hit me so hard I had to stop reading for the night. The books are different as you've mentioned - since they're not short stories, but I enjoyed them a lot too. I first played Witcher 1 and Witcher 2, then decided I'd read everything before going into the Witcher 3. I really like setting, politics etc.
me too, I can't get enough weirdly, although I love reading, I only have the audio books, and I've gone through them at least 5 times. after listening to all the books, I take a break for a few months and start again. I've been listening to the story for 5-10 years
Such an informative video. 💜 And thanks for pointing out some possible effects of reading a translated book. I always have to do it when I recommend things to my friends (because I read/play/watch everything in foreign languages to improve my skills). "Lost in translation" is very, VERY real. 😂
Ink Heart was written in German. I saw the movie, then read the story. I could tell a few places where the translation was difficult, but the over all story was as sad in English, which was the point of that particular hero.
@@joakimnyback1931 I think it really depends on the (perceived)sexism. If it is a part of the world and there are fleshed out reasons for it and how it affects the world then it is fine. It is world building. If it is clearly a carry over from the author's real world views and not for narrative value then it can be a problem.
Magician by Raymond E Feist is an amazing fantasy book and the continues in a number of great books with an outcome that concludes the original book. JimButcher also has the Furies series of fantasy books that I really enjoyed.
I'm really really impressed by the degree of respect and objective thought you put into all of the works, and the emphasis you put on including contrasting opinions about each work. This felt respectful towards both authors and audiences while maintaining its honesty. Instant subscribe.
Raymond E Fiest, David Gemmel, Terry Brooks and David Eddings should also be checked out as they have written great fantasy series. Also I really enjoyed the soldier son series by Robbin Hob as well as other trilogies listed in the comments already that she wrote.
Totally agree with you, for great coming of age stories read Fiest's Magician (and also the side series The Empire with Janny Wurtz), and Eddings Belgariad series. My 2 favourite Gemmel books are Legend & Waylander, both great reads.
David Gemmell RIP - Sipstrassi, Rigante and Drenai are all great universes and super approachable. A better intro to the genre with his shortish stories, with great characters and psychology. Miss him dearly.
I’ll say this for the Farseer Trilogy: I read all 3 books and thought “meh.” A year later I read Liveship Traders and was like “This is actually pretty good” and as soon as I picked up the first Tawny Man book I couldn’t read the rest of the Realm of the Elderling books fast enough. She writes 16 books and I would say the first big payoff doesn’t start until the middle of the series but it is totally worth it!
I feel like I am very far behind on the most popular and genuinely good fantasy reads. And is it just me, or is the premise of Black Prism reminiscent of ATLA? Side note, I really appreciate how balanced your presentation of these books are - regardless of whether you like or dislike a given work, you always present multiple points of view and you never let your personal opinion creep unnoticed into your reviews.
Mistborn has an almost too accessible writing style, not many descriptions of things, colloquial language, and fairly predictable characters. Sure adults can read it and its fairly entertaining, but its not the most complex piece of writing ever. It felt like a video game or a comic, lol.
This probably sounds silly, but the comparison to a video game or comic doesn’t necessarily help your argument in that many great, complex stories can be found in those mediums as well.
@@ebnovels I agree it's not the best comparison, but it just felt different, I don't know how to explain it, it just felt like the whole thing was made around the magic system and everything else was secondary. It has an interesting premise, a complex magic system and good action, but it lacks a certain depth, like it just feels like a straightforward story, its not immersive. That's why I didn't love it. That's just my opinion.
@@JLchevz Have you read The Wheel of Time? I'm wondering which to start next if you could recommend either - Mistborn or WofT, the latter being a fairly hefty time investment.
@@james6401 I haven't, I want to read it but it's such a big commitment that I'm putting it after other series. I've heard good things in general, but some people say that it drags out too much.
Robin Hobb's Realm of the Elderlings, of which the Farseer trilogy is the first of 16 books is the most amazing book series I have ever read in my life. In every first book of each of the trilogies and quartet in the series is like an extended set-up, and a slow burn. If Farseer was a bit slow for your taste, I highly reccomend trying the first book of The Liveship Traders, Ship of Magic, as it is much faster paced at the start. It follows the journey of a young woman named Althea, who is trying to rescue her family's Liveship, Vivacia. The ships were my favorite part of the trilogy, because after the passing of generations of their captains on their decks, they gain sentience and their figureheads become animated and move and speak with their passengers and crew. You don't need to read Farseer to read Liveships, I actually skipped it and went back to it after Liveships. They are interconnected, and in the same world, but the connections are very minor, more like Easter eggs or The Cosmere. I highly reccomend picking this book up to get a better taste of what people love so much about Robin Hobb and her writing. While people tend to get very attached to Fitz, I find him to be a bit angsty, and Althea is more of my type of protagonist, she is a highly motivated young woman who is very competent and proactive without going anywhere near "Super Speschul Chosen Wonder Girl Mary Sue" territory.
The first book (of the completed RotE series) was brutally slow. I hate it because it prevents people for getting in to an absolutely amazing series. The liveship series was quicker moving, but if you start there you miss so many of the little things she weaves into the story, because you don't have the background knowledge.
She says too much about feelings, the end of the trilogy was a pain. Oh I love Verity, oh I'm so helpless, oh Molly, or Verity looked in my eyes, oh Molly oh duty, it's all depressing. Don't read if you are depressed
Hi violet, i remember when i picked up the first Farseer book. i worked a night shift at Mcvities Piking Penguins... i saw Assassin i thought thats a manly book. after struggling with the way Robbin Hobb names the characters was a bit cring worthy Prince Chivalry, king shrewd .... but i stuck with it.it is slow but that is what i loved about it, and wow i don't mind admitting iv never cried so much at a book iv read.. (the subtle knife or the amber spy glass may be) and Yep Fitz can be frustrating some times, the impossible decisions are Dammed no matter what he does, especialy when the right thing is what causes him the most pain,
I personally love an angsty protagonist with a shitty life that gets beaten down repeatedly through the story. Hmm.. Why am I relating to those character? :S.
Ooh i like this, more often than not i always see very positive reviews about all of them, so it's good to see what their flaws might be, so we can be warned going in. Thank you.
What many overlook or perhaps aren't aware of regarding Jordan's WoT series, is that he draws heavily upon myths and legends from across the globe. There's elements of Judaism, Christianity, the Vedas, the Sagas, the Greeks and the Egyptians, with the names of the main set of characters being very close alterations drawn from the Arthurian legend and Nordic pantheon. I found it a brilliant re-imagining of the concept of Middle Earth, without being overly derivative, subtly including so many references to mythos, religion, legends and stories that we all know.
I got over the LoTR similarity early on, thoroughly enjoyed books 1-6 or 7, and that was the turning point. Jordan fell in love with his story and the characters and I think he lost the ending somewhere in there. This caused it to drag for an additional 4 books before he left us hanging with his untimely demise...waaaaay too much braid pulling and internal monologues that really meant nothing....
Yissnakk Lives! “Braid pulling” made me laugh. I can see how some could say reverse sexism in the world building of WOT, but Jordan seemed to write the most annoying and one dimensional female characters. Stubborn and self righteous and simpering... and presenting polygamy as a woman’s choice to share men like property... I abandoned this series halfway through path of daggers and I have no regrets.
@@changchabop Interesting that you didn't read the entire series, by your own admission, and then felt compelled comment as you did. Perhaps that says far more about you Robert Jordan and WoT series, especially since I never even hinted at anything in the direction you decided to go with your observations?
@@tedlogan4867 my comment was more of a response to yisnak, so I agree I didnt talk about your comment at all. I read 8 of the books so I did like the series more than casually, but as previously mentioned I grew too exasperated with the women bickering constantly. Robert Jordan was a prolific writer, and WOT is a cornerstone of fantasy literature for a reason. But as a fan, I just got fed up with the stubbornness. Hope I didnt offend you with my opinion, but i suppose youtube comments are always a minefield
Great job on the review of these adult fantasy books. Robert Jordan Wheel Of Time - Eye of the world, I started reading in 1991 and gave up in 1996. I wasn't ready for fourteen books. I just wanted it to end. Patrick Rothfuss - Name of the Wind , I couldn't finish. Now that said , The First Law trilogy was excellent. I am listening to"A Little Hatred" by Joe Abercrombie right now. Song of Ice and Fire , I am afraid G.RR. Martin is going to do the same thing as Robert Jordan and never finish. Now, you are missing, The Lord Of The Rings ( I do consider adult fantasy), Michael J. Sullivan - The Theft of Swords: Riyria Revelations trilogy and Age Of Iron trilogy by Angus Watson. Also the Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan. What about Dune by Frank Herbert?
I am glad to see someone else include the Sullivan Riyria Revelations series. Did you know there are 2 prequel series as well. Also, I think Terry Mancour's Spellmonger series is pretty entertaining. But it is 11 books long, so maybe too long for you.
Well.. that's a TBR to keep anyone busy for quite some time 🤣 And then you've seen the tip of the iceberg 😉 Excellent video! Wish I could find detailed lists as good for every other genre. 👌
Glad you covered the Farseer books. They are perhaps my personal favorite and your analysis is fair and accurate. Thanks for the introduction to the other series of books as well.
@@ebnovels I frankly MUCh prefer the Liveship Traders Trilogy to the Farseer ones. Much different, also QUITE different from the trope-ical fantasy on this list at least in terms of the setting...
@@Annkelia I like both. But maybe I'm just a glutton for anything an author puts out. I think I just get into an author and read whatever they do. Like, I loved Mary Gentle's Ash books so I read Illario, which is the type of thing I would never read and I'm so glad I did. Great book.
Great overview. I used to love fantasy, but it's clear to me after watching this, I barely know anything anymore. Haha Only familiar with three of the author/series. Loved one Sanderson book which was comic book inspired. The fantasy series I hated pretty early in and couldn't read it. Robert Jordan's books were enjoyable although they could be tedious. Robert Jordan was an "official" Conan the Barbarian writer in the 1980's. But I really love The Witcher series, which I don't even have in book form. I have the audiobooks, with amazing narration by Peter Kinney. I've listened to it while driving to work or going to sleep, or riding my bike or walking. I've gone through the series about 5 times in the last 5-10 years. Just finished watching the TV show. It's interesting that this video points out that the series is character-driven, because it really seems like the TV show more or less missed the essential character motivations. Good show, but the characters are pretty different even if they are basically the same people doing the same things. It's like a very different story. I have an old computer, so I can't play the computer game. I wonder how much the series is influenced more from the video game than from the books.
I'd love to read The Witcher series, it caught my attention after playing the video games. But there are a lot of books and don't even know in what order I should read them
@@valentinavivas5298 The order is confusing, so I always google it before beginning again. haha The Last Wish The Sword of Destiny (+Season of Storms? maybe) Blood of Elves The Time of Contempt Baptism of Fire The Tower of Swallows The Lady of the Lake ---- www.hachettebookgroup.com/series-list/andrzej-sapkowski-witcher-books-in-order/ witcher.fandom.com/wiki/Season_of_Storms
Read them all (except v.e. schwab), some of the twice. The ones that really stuck with me and I often find myself think about is Malazan and First Law (I mean GLOKTA, what a legend). But I really like the other series too.
Have you read The Black Company series by Glen Cook? It's my all-time favorite. It's more like Band of Brothers in a fantasy setting. I wonder if you'll like it or not. The first trilogy (it's 10 books total) is the best portion. Books 4-10 are great too but it's really the first three that rock.
Slowly but surely making my way through these! Read all of ASOIAF, First Law, and Kingkiller Chronicles. Started Witcher and Malazan and I'm on the third book of Mistborn! Robin Hobb books and Lightbringer will be next after I go through more Brandon Sanderson. Saving Wheel of Time for the end.
I've read seven of these and yet somehow I have missed ever hearing about Shades of Magic. I will have to check it out. I absolutely love the First Law Trilogy, and your description of the first book is spot on. I can't remember what happened, but I remember not wanting it to stop.
Shades of Magic is definitely worth it. I have read and most of the series mentioned (all cept for Stormlight Archives, Brent weeks and Witcher) and I would rate high (within top 3) amongst those I’ve read on this list...
This was a great video for people who want to transition into adult fantasy but don't know what's necessarily good. The pros/cons really helped to narrow down which specific series would appeal to a person's interests. Just curious, do you know of any similar videos for a person looking to dip their toes into the grimdark subgenre?
I made one! Some people said the audio on the video was quiet for them, so I apologize if that’s the case for you. There are less books on the list and a couple of them are the same as a couple of these, but hopefully you’ll find something there :) ruclips.net/video/bdYWFchE3kg/видео.html
Maybe I just don't get it, but I have tried to read Name of the Wind 3 times and I find its a good way to fall asleep. I keep waiting for something to happen. It just seems to ramble on and on with no purpose.
What I like most about the book is that the entire premise is to deconstruct and clarify the fantastical stories about the lead character. There is always an underlying truth in stories, but they can often be riddled with lies and hyperbole depending on the storyteller. In this case, Kvothe tells his own story as authentically as he can whereas other storytellers tell and retell stories from ages past, changing the premise, characters, and plot drastically to suit their own style. I just finished the first book and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I'd highly recommend giving it another try if you aren't already bored of it.
I might recommend "Death Gate Cycle" by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. Really interesting take on how magic works, how the world is "broken" to "save it", and the origin of the races. It has an interesting easter egg if you have ever read the original Dragonlance novels that they wrote previously, but it is not a prerequisite nor is it even in the same world. Just a funny thing that happens. :)
being a teenager who LOVES adult high fantasy books much more than young adult fantasy, its hard to get my friends to read adult fantasy:( i just want to talk about my love for kaladin to someone bro
OMG yessssssss. i feel you so hard dude. For real, sometimes i'll go off on a tangent about the deeper themes of colonialism in stormlight and everyone will just go back to talking about throne of glass or something. like, let me tell you about syl dude.
I've read most of these. Gotta admit, I was shocked when I got to end of your video and A Song of Fire and Ice series was missing. Don't take that as a criticism. I'm kind of sort of glad you left it off. As good as it is, there are many others most folk have never heard of it, and your list does an ace job showcasing them. The King Killer Chronicles is the best series I've read outside of LotR. It's the one I recommend to anyone looking for their world to be changed. The Gardens of the Moon defeated me. I could not get through it. The structure is imbecilic. You jump between too many characters, and none of them are likable. You don't spend enough time with anyone to care what happens, and therefore consequences hold no meaning. In other words, it commits the ultimate sin in writing, and I do not have the power to absolve the author of his transgression. Erikson is blacklisted for all of eternity. I agree with the Gentleman Bastards recommendation someone in the comments made. Scott Lynch became one of my MUST READ authors thanks to that trilogy. Truly excellent. Jonathan Renshaw recently began a series. The first book was quite good, and I'm eagerly awaiting the next. Then of course, there's Anthony Ryan... who is one of the very best. The Raven's Shadow series is spectacular. All except for the ending, which felt a little underwhelming. Yet I still have such positive feelings for the story as a whole.
one thing that I found really interesting is the thing you said about the translation of "the witcher" and how it can be different from what the reader is used to. as someone who doesn't have english as first language nor is from an english speaker country, I'm used to reading mostly translated books and I love to see the differences between writing from different countries and how translators constructs the narratives to make sense without losing the original flow and flavor of the author. I think it really opens one's mind and can be a really positive experience.
Name of the wind is a great book, but I loved the wise man's fear even more. I have read every book in the world of the elderlings by Robin Hobb and I highly recommend it. The relationship between Fitz, Nighteyes, and the fool is a lot of fun.
Also, the Farseer Trilogy: I'm sure there is more, but I've read a trilogy of trilogies following the same characters as they grow and mature. Fan-friggin-tastic series.
Nice video! Haven't read the Black Prism or Shades of Magic so I'll definitely check them out. Would argue with the Rothfuss recommendation though. The Name of the Wind was truly brilliant but the second book mas mostly "meh" and on top of that Rothfuss seems to be completely stalled so it seems the series won't ever be completed. Would switch it out for the Dresden files for example.
This took too much scrolling to find him mentioned. Damn those books are nice. I love that you can read every arc seperatly but there is still a long red line it it. YA maybe yeah.
Hey I'm new this channel i heard fantasy was.right up you're alley cause I have recently.published and released a.book on Amazon and Barnes and.noble. I Currently have a four star rating.on good reads and I was wondering if you were interested or.had the.time to order a copy and give it a review. If you did this you would make me most happy
WoT will always hold a special place in my heart, but seriously, Robert Jordan, how TF does a voice sound like “lace and steel,” and why must I hear that description over and over?!
Sigh. I kind of wish you hadn't even mentioned Malazan if you've only read the first book. You don't even get a hint at the overall plot until book 3. Also, people should NOT skip the first book. Everything that happens there is important to the later books.
That's the next book series that I'm gonna read, my bro loved it a lot and even incorporated parts of it into this crazy DnD campaign that he ran in the Discworld... Anyways, I can never understand people who skip books, or episodes or even seasons of TV shows, like what the hell is wrong with you - you cannot possibly know what you're missing, small but interesting interactions between characters, side plots etc. (I get doing it after you've seen it once though.)
@patrick henry Gardens of the Moon definitely requires a long term fantasy reader, it doesn't give any pre-ample just throws you in and lets you slowly pick up the pieces on what is what. Chain of Dogs in my opinion was the one that finally sucks you in fully, and if you like any sort of military ethos fantasy, you're gonna be blown away. Then again, many people quit before about 2700 pages I guess haha. ;)
Robin Hobb's Assassin's Apprentice definitely took me a while to get into, but once I'd got going I couldn't stop reading. Because it starts with Fitz at 5(ish) and growing up - it takes a while until he's dealing with larger stakes and the complexities of the world, which provide most of the interest for me. That said all her recent trilogies (except the Soldier Son triology) expand on the world and make a great cohesive whole. Trudi Canavan is writing some intersting series now, and you always have the Belgariad as a good gateway (though I came to those late). For more medieval style fantasy my go-to is David Gemmell and Raymond E. Feist (Magician is a must-read classic).
Name of wind? Featuring a closeted Gary-Stue (The scene with the tree and him bringing nothing back, to show how he'll bleed for the fellowship - nonono). Nevertheless might try out a few of your suggestions. A different kind of fantasy, but would recommend Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell - also because it seems a sequel is in the making: www.theguardian.com/books/2019/sep/30/jonathan-strange-and-mr-norrell-author-return-susanna-clarke-piranesi
Same here...but I feel like I'm going to have to do a re-read because there has been so much happening over the course of the books I've forgotten half the plot threads. 😂
Malazan first book is so darn frustrating to read. the audacity of some writers that just assume we are gonna keep coming back for no reason....nonetheless I will hate-read this to the end. P.S. loved your reviews. subscribed
Jacqueline Carey is my favorite adult fantasy author. I particularly love her Phèdre Trilogy, although it is adult in the truest sense and deals with some very extreme subject matter.
I started listening to them as they were on a laptop a friend lent me inow need to get hold of books 5 and beyond, i thoroughly enjoyed them first 4 :)
the Robin Hobb books are the best books I have inhaled in all of my 50+ years. The first trilogy is followed by two more trilogies and another one in the same world but different characters. There is VERY few books I would reread over and over and over again when the average length of one is 8-900 pages and there is nine of them. I love long books but they have to be magnificent long books. The Farseer books are that =)
I respect how you treat books you don't necessarily enjoy as much as others do, still giving them their due and looking at it objectively.
Thank you! Haha, people tell me sometimes I need to be polarizing and harsher if I want to “stay relevant.” I appreciate you saying otherwise 😊
@@ebnovels Don't listen to them, I like the way you just lay out the information objectively and just add a few subtle subjective remarks, your opinions and personality still show through without dominating the content of the video. Feel free to make specific "hot-take" videos for that if you want to because I could see that being fun, but for videos like this the format works perfectly! :)
Exactly, that's a very good thing.
Wow
Jerimiah Johnson The perfect booktuber!! 😊
Brandon Sanderson is a writing machine...
I had never heard about him before, but judging by the wikipedia article, it looks as if he could give Raymond E. Feist (33 novels so far) a fierce run for the money.
@@wooshbait36 i think you were hyped up about his writing too much. He had a very direct prose
@@wooshbait36 disagree
No wonder his books lack the emotional depth of a human.
@@adnansaleem6167..? Have you really read the way of kings?
Gentleman Bastards!
I can forgive not including A Song of Ice and Fire (coz everybody and their mother are talking about it), but not including Scott Lynch' masterpiece is a missed opportunity.
Still liked the video though, and agree (as far as I can) with the other titles in your list :)
Haha, I couldn’t include everything! 😆
@@ebnovels Why not? I'd watch a 14 hour video about fantasy books :P
@@ebnovels So we can say you got Lynch-ed by the fans! :D
@@bramvandenheuvel4049 Cause there's gotta be a part 2, and maybe part 3 LOL. So we can have a chance to like another video.
When you are reading Wheel of time but you also wanna read Name of the wind, Dark tower, Gentleman bastards, First law, Lightbringer and more but your time is limited.
Yep! I know what you mean bro!
I know that feel, bruh.
We have all been there. I say take a break from Wheel of Time and enjoy some of these other more modern works The Name of the Wind is super awesome and less of a commitment than Wheel of Time.
I'm almost done with book 10. Lend me your strength.
@@StoneyBlazer420 The darkest hour comes right before dawn. Godspeed, good fellow.
"Sexism in reverse"
That's just called "sexism." Things like "reverse racism" are a misnomer. They simply are what they are.
Misogyny and misandry.
Amen
I read all of Wheel of Time, but when I started years ago I was looking for a book that stood alone and the librarian at the time said she thought this was a stand alone book so I read it only to discover there were going to be many more so it gave something for the librarian and me to laugh about over the years as each new book came out.I liked the Wheel of Time I must have I read them all and I liked the librarian.
This is my first time listening to you and I'm very impressed. You're well informed and articulate, and there isn't a trace of arrogance in you or your content. In fact, you clearly go out of your way to allow for different points of view. I was also delighted by the completeness of the attached bibliography. I can't wait to listen to your other videos!
Well thank you very much! I really appreciate that 😄
Do not start with Name of the Wind until the last book is out...
Thats never going to happen
Why not? I understand that it might be a long wait for the 3rd book, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't read it. I knew that going in and still read it. I have 0 regrets about it. It was amazing and I will definitely reread many more times.
@@CallmeJochem dude its been 9 years since the last book
@@CallmeJochem Was more commenting her recommending the series for new to the genre than the quality of the series. They were great but not a great way to start yourself in fantasy when you are immediately greeted with 2+ years of waiting.
Yeah, I was surprised that was suggested as a starting book as there is literally no end in sight. Rothfuss has been sidetracked by so many other things that I don't think it is remotely possible for that series to be finished or have a satisfying ending.
It is way to large to be finished in one book, unless he does a hack job, and if it has to be more than one book, he'll more likely pass away before finishing the follow up book.
I’m still shook from the 3rd Mistborn book. It’s been 12 months.
Stormlight archive kept me sane in my sophomore year of high school. That series is 10/10
just finished Oathbringer (3rd book) and I already can't wait for the next one. Amazing Series.
Same, Stormlight gives me life
this is a good list but incomplete with out the dresden files
@@anthonysalvatore9318 yeah, I finished all the dresden books and Im here trying to find something else to keep me busy 😂
This video is over 25 minutes long. I can tell you worked very hard on this. You always produce such great content for us. I appreciate your channel so very much. Thank you.
From all 10 of these series mentioned, I've read every book from all the series (not just one or two books from each series) except for Robert Jordans Wheel of Time (haven't started yet, so daunting) and the Steven Erikson's Malazan series (read the first book only and never picked up anymore because of it).
Having said that, I will probably look back into the Malazan series as the description in this overview was spot on for me and the exact reasons why I didn't continue with the series.
The whole Patrick Rothfuss fiasco is so incredibly frustrating that I'm not even sure if I'm going to bother reading the final book. At the very least I won't be buying it, maybe I'll borrow it and read it, but I just can't justify supporting him any longer.
All in all, my point is that this video is fantastic and really covers these titles very well. Earned a sub no doubt!
what did patrick rothfuss do?
Storm light, in particular,Way of Kings, is a great read.
The Malazan will stay with you, the author is an anthropologist and he uses that in his books. It stays with you more than most fantasy books.
It's interesting that she said you could skip the first book. That might work for some people.
If anyone out there is thinking about giving Malazan a try, book 2 & 3 are the ones that really hook you in. I read the second book about 3 years ago, and I still think about it regularly.
Malazan is my favourite, I think it's probably the best fleshed out world in that it's really well thought out but there isn't a character who has complete understanding of what's happening.
I'm glad you talked about the Stormlight Archive. So fantastic.
The Wheel of time spins way too much. It was a very interesting concept, but could have done with half the books.
1. The Black Company by Glen Cook. 12 Projected books, a rather dark and follows the adventures of a mercenary company. There is a D&D sourcebook for it, so I guess it was a little popular at some point. Last volume is still awaiting publication. None of you fantasy book youtubers seem to know about this one. 2. The Deed of Paksinarion by Elizabeth Moon (Vol 1 Sheep Farmer's Daughter) is a more standard fantasy on the surface, but it deep dives on the idea of "What IS a paladin?" She is still releasing books in the second arc of this story, also for some reason not covered by youtubers.
Yes, the Witcher in polish is a masterpiece. Words used, sentences build, all the details are stunning. I was amazed while reading it the first time. I thought the books are famous because the story is good but the writing itself is an art, something to enjoy. It's like looking at an amazing painting or sculpture and see the talent behind the artist. What is also great (and most probably lost in translations) is how he treats the reader. He expect one to know what he means withoult explaining it fully and it's such a great feeling that the reader is not treated like a clueless child.
I don't speak Polish. The translation is awkward. There are errors that a good editor would have picked up. I feel the translation is too respectful to the Polish and too tight. A liberal translation might have improved the readability. I have read one of the short stories in German, a long time ago, admittedly but I don't recall having to double think a sentence.
I’m Czech and I was suprised how easy is Witcher to read. The short stories are still the best book with Geralt, they are the most genius.
JoanTheBee is there any way to like , you know , uh read a better translation , a different edition
@@selenophile410 The only thing I can think of are fan made translations. I didn't look into it, just heard they exist. Probably only fragments though.
If the original mastery is lost in translation then the translator did not do a good job. Simple as that, a shitty translator. Those of us who are non-native english speakers are painfully aware of what a gem a good translation is.
Very informative, thank you.
The "must read" adult fantasy series of all time for me would have to be the "Magician" series by Raymond E Feist.
His writing style is unique & his ability to put you in the picture with a relatively few words is brilliant. He can do in a paragraph what David Eddings or Robin Hobb take a page and a half to do.
Although character driven, the plot is rich & complex. It takes several main character story-lines and blends them seamlessly into the overall picture.
I read the first book "Magician" in 3 days , then devoured the 2nd & 3rd books in a single 22 hour sitting. (they were that good!).
Feist got me into fantasy in the first place!
Couldn't agree more. That was a killer series. After "A Battle at Sethanon" he kinda fell off (IMHO).
Great video! Sorry for my bad English but I would also like to recommend the Discworld series by Terry Pratchett. While most people probably think of violence and sex when it comes to 'adult' media, Pratchett pulled it off create a very believable magical world through the use of humor. A world which manages to beautifully parody many different cultural aspects of our modern western societies while still maintaining a very natural and cohesive feel to this fantasy setting that also manages to show some surprising dark sides from time to time. There are a ton of books centered around many different characters and events within that world that are somewhat losely chronologically connected with each other but basically you can just pick up any of these books and give it a read to find out if this kind of fantasy is something for you. His books have had me giggle at first, only to be shocked and thrilled within the turn of a page far too many times to not mention them here.
Were you being sarcastic when you said to excuse your English?? 😂👍
Agree 100%, discworld belongs on this list.
The Malazan Book of the Fallen is such a good series. It's a shame that most people don't have the will to go through the first few books without deciding on it.
Maybe not for this review, but The Dredsen Files by Jim Butcher entertain me!
My 2nd favorite author
Guys, I have started "wheel of time" 3 times now. the first boook drags soooo much! Should i persist?? I love LOTR which i read when i was 12, and i dont remember it feeling so slow.
lemme tell you. best world spectacle you can get, with so many characters and stories. It has it's writing style flaws, but i love the story. Bigger and better than LOTR.
It's ok to skip a book or series. Read something else
Skip to book 4? Or something...
I didn't like the series at all. I felt like I could skip books and still not miss a thing. The female characters started to grate on my nerves and they all seemed to merge into each other at one point.
Robert Jordan was known for his detail get past the first book to the second best choice you ever made trust me also you could skim over the first book as most of it is detail
I would agree that Robin Hobb's story can appear to be a slower pace, but over the course of the books this draws you in to their world so effectively - hence the trauma you experience as a reader. Just amazing.
However I also enjoy the faster paced and more punchy First Law series, Lightbringer and Mistborn.
Great job with the reviews.
I would add "The Second Apocalypse" series by R. Scott Bakker, one of the best fantsy series i've ever read, and is criminally underrated.
My man! Iwas just going to write the same thing.
Lightbringer is finished.
Is it really? I mean it's the end of the "Lightbringer" series but it baits sequels hard. Might be another series of a different name in the same world at some point.
@UCxfwPNvxkUPP2-rzCBPmQnQ Bro, I hate to be the one to break it to you, but it came out in late October. Get on that now if you were into the first 4
And it was a let down
@@qqq386 Yeah I've been a big fan of the series since it started but the payoff was so poor. Love Brent Weeks but man it reeked of deus ex mahcina and was just generally underwhelming.
@@Mwezi828 I enjoyed it, I liked the religious elements of the story and it was interesting to see direct intervention. Plus I love where the characters ended up.
Late to the party, but I do agree, Malazan is the greatest thing ever. Even the first book is better than say, a Song of Ice and Fire, by miles. Personally I did think the characters showed a lot of emotion and development, even though the first book was mostly used to set up a lot of mystery to be followed up in the later books. It doesn't hold your hand and you need to be able to ..let some things go, from book to book...., but it's worth the journey. In fact, I don't think there is a better journey currently in existence.
Quick question, hopefully no spoilers. Gardens of the moon captivated me with its unique style, then I red Deadhouse gates which is the best book I've ever red. I really liked most of Memories of Ice as well. However I was very displeased with book 4, and book 5 was just too philosophical and lacked the panache of the first 3. That said my question what should I expect if I continue reading and do book 6-10 resemble more the first 3 or book 4-5? Cheers!
@@MadcookieBG I can only say that the books at the end are truly amazing. In my opinion. Extremely satisfying. Because of the style of writing and the embodiment of the characters, if you somehoe dislike some of the main cast, some books will fall flat, but I honestly can say that all of it comes together brilliantly. Not that all questions are answered, a sequal is coming after all.
@@Oyxopolis Thanks for the response, I'll start book 6 as soon as I can.
P.S. Also Happy new year, :)
@@MadcookieBG they are more like 4 and 5, but still awesome and with enough action to keep you going along (Kharkanas trilogy is even more philosophical, very challenging and deep content,Is like the author started exploring that path). But, even with that in mind is really one of the greatest series ever made, so you should go on!
when you mentioned the farseer trilogy i started sobbing, thats how much i loved all of the realm of the elderlings books. the emotional connectiones between the characters (cough cough nighteyes) is a masterpiece. i really want to reread it but i know a part of the book will tear me apart again, and i cant go through that again.
There is actually 9 books of the Fitz story by Robin Hobb. Her magic of the books is the emotional aspect. I have read them all several times (except the latest one only one time) and every time I cry my eyes out on certain parts of the books, even though I know what will happen. Robin Hobb is amazing writer when it comes to emotions.
i look at it like Raymond e Feist world... there are 8 books( i have read anyway) outside the nine Fitz/Fool series as well that really flesh the story of the world... there is a plot point woven through all of them deep down.
regarding Robin Hobb, i think her writing is incredible. while her books, perhaps, have less immediacy about them, the way Hobb crafts her world and characters is subtle. you learn about the people in her books as if you were right there observing them. and more than most fantasy i've read, i feel like they are people i know and care about. They are ever evolving, changed by their experiences. even if the plot isn't barrelling forward, the time you spend with these characters is worthwhile. which is not to say that there is no action, just that when there isn't, Hobb is capable of crafting scenes which are not just flowery descriptions of a place which drag on to the distant horizon. with all that being said, Hobb's first two books in the trilogy are pacier than the last (this becomes a trait for her subsequent trilogies, as well). and i find her endings suffer from being a little anti-climactic, despite large world changing events occurring.
if you finish The Farseer Trilogy and are keen to return to the Realm of the Elderlings, you'll probably want to jump straight back in with Fitz et al. but you'll notice that there is a trilogy that stands in your way. i would recommend that you don't skip it in your haste to return to old friends. there are significant lore reveals which are worth experiencing inside of the narrative, not to mention a new host of characters which will become just as dear as Fitz and his friends. also, it's worth knowing that when you do return to Fitz, some time will have passed and he will not be unchanged. so, if anything, a jaunt south of the six duchies might allow for a less jarring transition!
Fitz books are written in-person, so the experience is of different sort than the more common almost all-knowing reader. Brilliant books.
Robin Hobb is a magician when it comes to creating characters. In my opinion she is unsurpassed. I always prefer character driven stories and her Farseer, Tawny Man and Mad Ship novels are perfect examples of this.
Her characters are so meticulously crafted that you can well imagine them living their lives even after you've read the final page, that's how real and believable they are. Fitz, The Fool, Nighteyes and Burrich are my favourite characters in all of literature.
Thank you for an extremely thorough overview of all these stories. 😁😁
You’re very welcome 😄
I absolutely love the The First Law trilogy. The characters are fun and feel real and Sand dan Glokta pov's are absolute treat to read.
Totally agree a great read fantastic characters
The fact that the characters were so well done completely made me forget about the overall arch of the story at the beginning and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see more of each. Then the story developed out of nowhere for me and it was a good surprise. It felt for parts of it that I could predict the ending and general story but boy was I wrong. 😂
I have read all the books twice now and am starting the new series with the children of some of the characters from the main trilogy.
Body floating by the docks 😅
Did you find anything even remotely similar to all of joe Abercrombies books. They left a hole in my heart which i am unable to fill with any book i tried so many different books but nothing come close to
I love The Name of the Wind. The last book is never coming out.
@@Danny-jl2sd yeah, i just finished the second book. I think I read somewhere a few days ago that book 3 is prolly coming out this year.
Ok, but there's no way that you can wrap up Kvothe's past story and his current story in one book.
This story will never get finished.
i swore i heard the 3rd book was coming out aug 2020.... think it was an accidental leak by audible... so no official
When I read them years ago the next book was supposed to be out the following year. I hope it is true but I will hold out hope until we get an official announcement.
@Ryan Patrick said these where only a prequel to the main story. So if the third book comes out it will only be the conclusion of his back story with more to follow.
I have been reading Malazan for a year now an I am on 8th book. It is a huge commitment and sometimes the story seems disconnected but as it goes on everything starts to connect. I like this series a lot. As it explains a lot of things and also leaves a lot to imagination.
Wheel Of Time A song of ice and fire. Stephen Kings the darktower.
I was surprised to not see Tad Williams' trilogy Sorrow, Memory, and Thorn make the list, as Tad is one of the stronger Adult Fantasy writers out there right now. I *highly* recommend him if you've not had a chance to read his stuff. His world-building is wonderful and realistic?/cohesive, and his characters are fantastic. He's also currently in the process of writing a new trilogy that takes place in the same world of SM&T about 60ish years later, and that's absolutely wonderful too.
"This is a true story, if words can be true. If not, then these are only words." -- The Heart of What was Lost, preface
It's been a couple of decades since I read Robin Hobb's Farseer series, but I still remember how it felt when I finished it. I highly recommend it.
If you enjoyed Farseer PLEASE DO NOT SKIP LIVESHIP TRADERS and go directly to Tawney man(the second Fitz series). Having the connections between these seemingly unrelated series reveal themselves is is amazing.
1st Law definitely becomes plots within plots throughout the series. Just finished the series and now it's one of my favorites. Agreed that the first book is all character development but it pays off in spades. Keep up the good work!
Thanks :D I can’t wait to get back to those characters 😊
Elliot Brooks and please don’t skip the standalone novels (or even Sharp Ends, the collection of short stories). They are probably the best of the series.
I agree - Abercrombie's story crafting weaves it together into a complex pattern over the course of the books (and is ongoing) which brings the world to life for me.
@@kahlbutomacfarland "Best Served Cold" has one of the best female protagonists I've read in adult fantasy to date.
Yes these are really enthralling, I just finished the 6th book yesterday and plan to start Sharp Ends soon.
“It’s not for me to tell you what to think”
You have my respect, and sub :-)
I've read almost all of these, and nothing beats The Name of the Wind, but holy shit Rothfuss I need the next book
Joe Abercrombie is fantastic. My favorite fantasy author in recent years.
Lord Grimdark!
Indeed.
Yes
I loved Half of King
This is a good video BUT it's a high level overview and not very comprehensive per se.
Also Mistborn's first trilogy is YA. Stormlight is borderline adult fantasy - Sanderson's stuff barely qualifies as "ADULT fantasy". It kinda underlines the uselessness of the category TBH.
I tend to agree with most everything you say about the books but no Tad Williams, or Stephen Donaldson. Thomas Covenant was one of the first ADULT fantasy series that I ever came across and one of the longest running too. And no Elric! Seriously - read Elric of Melnibone and the rest of Michael Moorcock's work - without him none of this stuff (Malazan, Witcher, WoT) exists. And no Ursula Le Guin - without Earthsea there is no The Name of the Wind.
I'd like to add to the list the huge universe from R. A. Salvatore, evolving around the drow Drizzt D'Urden and his adventures. There are many books, and it's really a commitment to be entering this universe, which is - in my opinion - both story- and character driven
it's Forgotten Realms, Salvatore is only one of the authors, but most popular. But he also wrote books in other universes
Why no mention of Robert Jordan dying whilst writing the Wheel of Time series and Brandon Sanderson completing them?
Jordan wasn’t actually planning on finish the series in his lifetime.
@@mirandapratt4506 As the series was originally supposed to be shorter, and was started in 1984, I would assume at the start he fully intended to finish the series. He was partially through the 14th/15th (depending on perspective) book, when he died.
The Witcher short stories are fantastic, I loved them a lot. One of them in particular hit me so hard I had to stop reading for the night. The books are different as you've mentioned - since they're not short stories, but I enjoyed them a lot too. I first played Witcher 1 and Witcher 2, then decided I'd read everything before going into the Witcher 3. I really like setting, politics etc.
me too, I can't get enough
weirdly, although I love reading, I only have the audio books, and I've gone through them at least 5 times.
after listening to all the books, I take a break for a few months and start again. I've been listening to the story for 5-10 years
Such an informative video. 💜 And thanks for pointing out some possible effects of reading a translated book. I always have to do it when I recommend things to my friends (because I read/play/watch everything in foreign languages to improve my skills). "Lost in translation" is very, VERY real. 😂
I wish I read Polish just so I understood those differences 😆
Ink Heart was written in German. I saw the movie, then read the story. I could tell a few places where the translation was difficult, but the over all story was as sad in English, which was the point of that particular hero.
Btw It's not reverse sexism it's just sexism.
Its fantasy
Agreed
What's implied in what she said is women always feel like they're the victim, hence they see sexism works only one way.
i find it funny when people complain about sexism in a made up world.
@@joakimnyback1931 I think it really depends on the (perceived)sexism. If it is a part of the world and there are fleshed out reasons for it and how it affects the world then it is fine. It is world building. If it is clearly a carry over from the author's real world views and not for narrative value then it can be a problem.
Check out Jim Butcher's "Codex Alera" great fantasy series
I’m planning on picking it up this year 😊
Hell yeah, had a super fun time and I loved the villains , terrifying !
Great books, really fun easy read.
Magician by Raymond E Feist is an amazing fantasy book and the continues in a number of great books with an outcome that concludes the original book. JimButcher also has the Furies series of fantasy books that I really enjoyed.
I'm really really impressed by the degree of respect and objective thought you put into all of the works, and the emphasis you put on including contrasting opinions about each work. This felt respectful towards both authors and audiences while maintaining its honesty. Instant subscribe.
Raymond E Fiest, David Gemmel, Terry Brooks and David Eddings should also be checked out as they have written great fantasy series. Also I really enjoyed the soldier son series by Robbin Hob as well as other trilogies listed in the comments already that she wrote.
Totally agree with you, for great coming of age stories read Fiest's Magician (and also the side series The Empire with Janny Wurtz), and Eddings Belgariad series. My 2 favourite Gemmel books are Legend & Waylander, both great reads.
@@Rogue0770 did you read Terry Brooks yet? The Shannara books are great.
David Gemmell RIP - Sipstrassi, Rigante and Drenai are all great universes and super approachable.
A better intro to the genre with his shortish stories, with great characters and psychology.
Miss him dearly.
The first law series is awesome. Glokta is amazing. Audiobook is best ever.
I’ll say this for the Farseer Trilogy: I read all 3 books and thought “meh.” A year later I read Liveship Traders and was like “This is actually pretty good” and as soon as I picked up the first Tawny Man book I couldn’t read the rest of the Realm of the Elderling books fast enough. She writes 16 books and I would say the first big payoff doesn’t start until the middle of the series but it is totally worth it!
Funny I felt just the other way round. I could really relate to Fitz and devoured his story but I have troubles connecting with the later books.
I feel like I am very far behind on the most popular and genuinely good fantasy reads. And is it just me, or is the premise of Black Prism reminiscent of ATLA? Side note, I really appreciate how balanced your presentation of these books are - regardless of whether you like or dislike a given work, you always present multiple points of view and you never let your personal opinion creep unnoticed into your reviews.
Mistborn has an almost too accessible writing style, not many descriptions of things, colloquial language, and fairly predictable characters. Sure adults can read it and its fairly entertaining, but its not the most complex piece of writing ever. It felt like a video game or a comic, lol.
This probably sounds silly, but the comparison to a video game or comic doesn’t necessarily help your argument in that many great, complex stories can be found in those mediums as well.
@@ebnovels I agree it's not the best comparison, but it just felt different, I don't know how to explain it, it just felt like the whole thing was made around the magic system and everything else was secondary. It has an interesting premise, a complex magic system and good action, but it lacks a certain depth, like it just feels like a straightforward story, its not immersive. That's why I didn't love it. That's just my opinion.
@@JLchevz Have you read The Wheel of Time? I'm wondering which to start next if you could recommend either - Mistborn or WofT, the latter being a fairly hefty time investment.
@@james6401 I haven't, I want to read it but it's such a big commitment that I'm putting it after other series. I've heard good things in general, but some people say that it drags out too much.
Unpopular opinion, but i think "Way of The Shadows" is better than "Black Prism". is that just me?
sorry i mean "night angel" vs "lightbringer" series. my bad
Robin Hobb's Realm of the Elderlings, of which the Farseer trilogy is the first of 16 books is the most amazing book series I have ever read in my life. In every first book of each of the trilogies and quartet in the series is like an extended set-up, and a slow burn.
If Farseer was a bit slow for your taste, I highly reccomend trying the first book of The Liveship Traders, Ship of Magic, as it is much faster paced at the start. It follows the journey of a young woman named Althea, who is trying to rescue her family's Liveship, Vivacia. The ships were my favorite part of the trilogy, because after the passing of generations of their captains on their decks, they gain sentience and their figureheads become animated and move and speak with their passengers and crew. You don't need to read Farseer to read Liveships, I actually skipped it and went back to it after Liveships. They are interconnected, and in the same world, but the connections are very minor, more like Easter eggs or The Cosmere.
I highly reccomend picking this book up to get a better taste of what people love so much about Robin Hobb and her writing. While people tend to get very attached to Fitz, I find him to be a bit angsty, and Althea is more of my type of protagonist, she is a highly motivated young woman who is very competent and proactive without going anywhere near "Super Speschul Chosen Wonder Girl Mary Sue" territory.
The first book (of the completed RotE series) was brutally slow. I hate it because it prevents people for getting in to an absolutely amazing series. The liveship series was quicker moving, but if you start there you miss so many of the little things she weaves into the story, because you don't have the background knowledge.
She says too much about feelings, the end of the trilogy was a pain. Oh I love Verity, oh I'm so helpless, oh Molly, or Verity looked in my eyes, oh Molly oh duty, it's all depressing. Don't read if you are depressed
Have you read the River Wilde chornicles? I loved those too.
Hi violet, i remember when i picked up the first Farseer book. i worked a night shift at Mcvities Piking Penguins... i saw Assassin i thought thats a manly book. after struggling with the way Robbin Hobb names the characters was a bit cring worthy Prince Chivalry, king shrewd .... but i stuck with it.it is slow but that is what i loved about it, and wow i don't mind admitting iv never cried so much at a book iv read.. (the subtle knife or the amber spy glass may be) and Yep Fitz can be frustrating some times, the impossible decisions are Dammed no matter what he does, especialy when the right thing is what causes him the most pain,
I personally love an angsty protagonist with a shitty life that gets beaten down repeatedly through the story.
Hmm.. Why am I relating to those character? :S.
Ooh i like this, more often than not i always see very positive reviews about all of them, so it's good to see what their flaws might be, so we can be warned going in. Thank you.
What many overlook or perhaps aren't aware of regarding Jordan's WoT series, is that he draws heavily upon myths and legends from across the globe. There's elements of Judaism, Christianity, the Vedas, the Sagas, the Greeks and the Egyptians, with the names of the main set of characters being very close alterations drawn from the Arthurian legend and Nordic pantheon. I found it a brilliant re-imagining of the concept of Middle Earth, without being overly derivative, subtly including so many references to mythos, religion, legends and stories that we all know.
I got over the LoTR similarity early on, thoroughly enjoyed books 1-6 or 7, and that was the turning point. Jordan fell in love with his story and the characters and I think he lost the ending somewhere in there. This caused it to drag for an additional 4 books before he left us hanging with his untimely demise...waaaaay too much braid pulling and internal monologues that really meant nothing....
Yissnakk Lives! “Braid pulling” made me laugh. I can see how some could say reverse sexism in the world building of WOT, but Jordan seemed to write the most annoying and one dimensional female characters. Stubborn and self righteous and simpering... and presenting polygamy as a woman’s choice to share men like property... I abandoned this series halfway through path of daggers and I have no regrets.
@@changchabop Interesting that you didn't read the entire series, by your own admission, and then felt compelled comment as you did. Perhaps that says far more about you Robert Jordan and WoT series, especially since I never even hinted at anything in the direction you decided to go with your observations?
@@yissnakklives8866 He died before the ending was written.
@@tedlogan4867 my comment was more of a response to yisnak, so I agree I didnt talk about your comment at all. I read 8 of the books so I did like the series more than casually, but as previously mentioned I grew too exasperated with the women bickering constantly. Robert Jordan was a prolific writer, and WOT is a cornerstone of fantasy literature for a reason. But as a fan, I just got fed up with the stubbornness. Hope I didnt offend you with my opinion, but i suppose youtube comments are always a minefield
Great job on the review of these adult fantasy books. Robert Jordan Wheel Of Time - Eye of the world, I started reading in 1991 and gave up in 1996. I wasn't ready for fourteen books. I just wanted it to end. Patrick Rothfuss - Name of the Wind , I couldn't finish. Now that said , The First Law trilogy was excellent. I am listening to"A Little Hatred" by Joe Abercrombie right now. Song of Ice and Fire , I am afraid G.RR. Martin is going to do the same thing as Robert Jordan and never finish. Now, you are missing, The Lord Of The Rings ( I do consider adult fantasy), Michael J. Sullivan - The Theft of Swords: Riyria Revelations trilogy and Age Of Iron trilogy by Angus Watson. Also the Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan. What about Dune by Frank Herbert?
I am glad to see someone else include the Sullivan Riyria Revelations series. Did you know there are 2 prequel series as well. Also, I think Terry Mancour's Spellmonger series is pretty entertaining. But it is 11 books long, so maybe too long for you.
Well.. that's a TBR to keep anyone busy for quite some time 🤣
And then you've seen the tip of the iceberg 😉
Excellent video! Wish I could find detailed lists as good for every other genre. 👌
Well thanks! I’m glad it was detailed enough to hopefully be helpful 😄
Glad you covered the Farseer books. They are perhaps my personal favorite and your analysis is fair and accurate. Thanks for the introduction to the other series of books as well.
You’re welcome! Thanks for the nice comment 😊
@@ebnovels I frankly MUCh prefer the Liveship Traders Trilogy to the Farseer ones. Much different, also QUITE different from the trope-ical fantasy on this list at least in terms of the setting...
@@Annkelia I like both. But maybe I'm just a glutton for anything an author puts out. I think I just get into an author and read whatever they do. Like, I loved Mary Gentle's Ash books so I read Illario, which is the type of thing I would never read and I'm so glad I did. Great book.
Great overview. I used to love fantasy, but it's clear to me after watching this, I barely know anything anymore. Haha
Only familiar with three of the author/series.
Loved one Sanderson book which was comic book inspired. The fantasy series I hated pretty early in and couldn't read it. Robert Jordan's books were enjoyable although they could be tedious. Robert Jordan was an "official" Conan the Barbarian writer in the 1980's.
But I really love The Witcher series, which I don't even have in book form. I have the audiobooks, with amazing narration by Peter Kinney. I've listened to it while driving to work or going to sleep, or riding my bike or walking. I've gone through the series about 5 times in the last 5-10 years. Just finished watching the TV show. It's interesting that this video points out that the series is character-driven, because it really seems like the TV show more or less missed the essential character motivations. Good show, but the characters are pretty different even if they are basically the same people doing the same things. It's like a very different story. I have an old computer, so I can't play the computer game. I wonder how much the series is influenced more from the video game than from the books.
I'd love to read The Witcher series, it caught my attention after playing the video games. But there are a lot of books and don't even know in what order I should read them
@@valentinavivas5298
The order is confusing, so I always google it before beginning again. haha
The Last Wish
The Sword of Destiny
(+Season of Storms? maybe)
Blood of Elves
The Time of Contempt
Baptism of Fire
The Tower of Swallows
The Lady of the Lake
----
www.hachettebookgroup.com/series-list/andrzej-sapkowski-witcher-books-in-order/
witcher.fandom.com/wiki/Season_of_Storms
Those who say Name of the Wind is bad because the protagonist is "too good at everything" - remember the Iliad, LOTR, the Odyssey, the Bible?
🤣 You're so damn right!
Read them all (except v.e. schwab), some of the twice. The ones that really stuck with me and I often find myself think about is Malazan and First Law (I mean GLOKTA, what a legend). But I really like the other series too.
Have you read The Black Company series by Glen Cook? It's my all-time favorite. It's more like Band of Brothers in a fantasy setting. I wonder if you'll like it or not. The first trilogy (it's 10 books total) is the best portion. Books 4-10 are great too but it's really the first three that rock.
I wish I did not find The Name of the Wind so boring. After reading 350~pages, I could not continue reading.
I don’t blame you-I’m not a fan of it personally, but I see why it appeals to some people.
Rothfuss is a good author, but Kvothe... UGH
@@LocoDirewolf what's wrong with kvothe?
Slowly but surely making my way through these! Read all of ASOIAF, First Law, and Kingkiller Chronicles. Started Witcher and Malazan and I'm on the third book of Mistborn! Robin Hobb books and Lightbringer will be next after I go through more Brandon Sanderson. Saving Wheel of Time for the end.
Deadly K at least read the first few Wheel of Time books before the series premieres on Amazon.
I've read seven of these and yet somehow I have missed ever hearing about Shades of Magic. I will have to check it out. I absolutely love the First Law Trilogy, and your description of the first book is spot on. I can't remember what happened, but I remember not wanting it to stop.
Shades of Magic is definitely worth it. I have read and most of the series mentioned (all cept for Stormlight Archives, Brent weeks and Witcher) and I would rate high (within top 3) amongst those I’ve read on this list...
New to your channel, I really like how you're explaining these books. Great vid!
This was a great video for people who want to transition into adult fantasy but don't know what's necessarily good. The pros/cons really helped to narrow down which specific series would appeal to a person's interests. Just curious, do you know of any similar videos for a person looking to dip their toes into the grimdark subgenre?
I made one! Some people said the audio on the video was quiet for them, so I apologize if that’s the case for you. There are less books on the list and a couple of them are the same as a couple of these, but hopefully you’ll find something there :) ruclips.net/video/bdYWFchE3kg/видео.html
Maybe I just don't get it, but I have tried to read Name of the Wind 3 times and I find its a good way to fall asleep. I keep waiting for something to happen. It just seems to ramble on and on with no purpose.
Haha, I don’t care for it personally, but I understand why others do.
I bounced off it, with a feeling of "It's probably not you, Pat, it's me."
What I like most about the book is that the entire premise is to deconstruct and clarify the fantastical stories about the lead character. There is always an underlying truth in stories, but they can often be riddled with lies and hyperbole depending on the storyteller. In this case, Kvothe tells his own story as authentically as he can whereas other storytellers tell and retell stories from ages past, changing the premise, characters, and plot drastically to suit their own style. I just finished the first book and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I'd highly recommend giving it another try if you aren't already bored of it.
Its a very dull nerd power fantasy
A good shout would of been the black company by cook , pretty much started the whole grim dark fantasy .
I might recommend "Death Gate Cycle" by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. Really interesting take on how magic works, how the world is "broken" to "save it", and the origin of the races. It has an interesting easter egg if you have ever read the original Dragonlance novels that they wrote previously, but it is not a prerequisite nor is it even in the same world. Just a funny thing that happens. :)
Absolutely correct about Joe Abercrombie. You’re going to love the second book.
being a teenager who LOVES adult high fantasy books much more than young adult fantasy, its hard to get my friends to read adult fantasy:( i just want to talk about my love for kaladin to someone bro
OMG yessssssss. i feel you so hard dude. For real, sometimes i'll go off on a tangent about the deeper themes of colonialism in stormlight and everyone will just go back to talking about throne of glass or something. like, let me tell you about syl dude.
I've read most of these. Gotta admit, I was shocked when I got to end of your video and A Song of Fire and Ice series was missing.
Don't take that as a criticism. I'm kind of sort of glad you left it off. As good as it is, there are many others most folk have never heard of it, and your list does an ace job showcasing them.
The King Killer Chronicles is the best series I've read outside of LotR. It's the one I recommend to anyone looking for their world to be changed.
The Gardens of the Moon defeated me. I could not get through it. The structure is imbecilic. You jump between too many characters, and none of them are likable. You don't spend enough time with anyone to care what happens, and therefore consequences hold no meaning. In other words, it commits the ultimate sin in writing, and I do not have the power to absolve the author of his transgression. Erikson is blacklisted for all of eternity.
I agree with the Gentleman Bastards recommendation someone in the comments made. Scott Lynch became one of my MUST READ authors thanks to that trilogy. Truly excellent.
Jonathan Renshaw recently began a series. The first book was quite good, and I'm eagerly awaiting the next.
Then of course, there's Anthony Ryan... who is one of the very best. The Raven's Shadow series is spectacular. All except for the ending, which felt a little underwhelming. Yet I still have such positive feelings for the story as a whole.
Am I the only one hoping for a Deadhouse Gates review?
Haha, you’ll get one eventually!
one thing that I found really interesting is the thing you said about the translation of "the witcher" and how it can be different from what the reader is used to. as someone who doesn't have english as first language nor is from an english speaker country, I'm used to reading mostly translated books and I love to see the differences between writing from different countries and how translators constructs the narratives to make sense without losing the original flow and flavor of the author. I think it really opens one's mind and can be a really positive experience.
Name of the wind is a great book, but I loved the wise man's fear even more. I have read every book in the world of the elderlings by Robin Hobb and I highly recommend it. The relationship between Fitz, Nighteyes, and the fool is a lot of fun.
So many books, so little time. I feel like I need more hours in the day.
Also, the Farseer Trilogy: I'm sure there is more, but I've read a trilogy of trilogies following the same characters as they grow and mature. Fan-friggin-tastic series.
Realm of the Elderlings
fool fate sucked 3\4 in.
The Burning White is out. Lightbringer is done. Just a heads up
Thanks!
Nice video! Haven't read the Black Prism or Shades of Magic so I'll definitely check them out. Would argue with the Rothfuss recommendation though. The Name of the Wind was truly brilliant but the second book mas mostly "meh" and on top of that Rothfuss seems to be completely stalled so it seems the series won't ever be completed. Would switch it out for the Dresden files for example.
Shades of Magic is SOOOO GOOD! It's one of my favorite series (not my favorite tho) and has such good world building
Raymond Feist is good but i don't know if he is Adult Fantasy
Do think it's adult, but can also be read by YA. Either way, he *is* very good. 👍
I still need to check them out!
Definitely check them out Feist writes great yarns and strong family lineage fantasy, with exceptional world building.
This took too much scrolling to find him mentioned.
Damn those books are nice.
I love that you can read every arc seperatly but there is still a long red line it it.
YA maybe yeah.
Hey I'm new this channel i heard fantasy was.right up you're alley cause I have recently.published and released a.book on Amazon and Barnes and.noble. I Currently have a four star rating.on good reads and I was wondering if you were interested or.had the.time to order a copy and give it a review. If you did this you would make me most happy
WoT will always hold a special place in my heart, but seriously, Robert Jordan, how TF does a voice sound like “lace and steel,” and why must I hear that description over and over?!
Fax
their voice appears soft but has a strong resolute behind their words
Everything I've read by Joe Abercrombie I love. Great characters. And the Malazan series, great characters. Many different writing styles.
Malazan books are amazing.
Sigh. I kind of wish you hadn't even mentioned Malazan if you've only read the first book. You don't even get a hint at the overall plot until book 3. Also, people should NOT skip the first book. Everything that happens there is important to the later books.
That's the next book series that I'm gonna read, my bro loved it a lot and even incorporated parts of it into this crazy DnD campaign that he ran in the Discworld... Anyways, I can never understand people who skip books, or episodes or even seasons of TV shows, like what the hell is wrong with you - you cannot possibly know what you're missing, small but interesting interactions between characters, side plots etc. (I get doing it after you've seen it once though.)
Yes. Malasan IS best fantasy series i ever read.
Just finished book two. I liked the first one a whole lot more. I like a lot in the books so far, other things not as much..
I felt like I cried through half of the last book. I don't think I will ever be able to read the series again. Phenomenal.
@@NipsnapsGamer I'll get there. In a few years :D.
@patrick henry Gardens of the Moon definitely requires a long term fantasy reader, it doesn't give any pre-ample just throws you in and lets you slowly pick up the pieces on what is what. Chain of Dogs in my opinion was the one that finally sucks you in fully, and if you like any sort of military ethos fantasy, you're gonna be blown away. Then again, many people quit before about 2700 pages I guess haha. ;)
Robin Hobb's Assassin's Apprentice definitely took me a while to get into, but once I'd got going I couldn't stop reading. Because it starts with Fitz at 5(ish) and growing up - it takes a while until he's dealing with larger stakes and the complexities of the world, which provide most of the interest for me. That said all her recent trilogies (except the Soldier Son triology) expand on the world and make a great cohesive whole.
Trudi Canavan is writing some intersting series now, and you always have the Belgariad as a good gateway (though I came to those late).
For more medieval style fantasy my go-to is David Gemmell and Raymond E. Feist (Magician is a must-read classic).
Yes Robin Hobb and Raymond E Feist are massive influences in fantasy
Hey lass. I recommend finishing up the Farseer trilogy. A grand series indeed. :-)
Yes! Robyns work was superb! Liveships 7/10 but Farseers tremendous set!😇
Name of wind? Featuring a closeted Gary-Stue (The scene with the tree and him bringing nothing back, to show how he'll bleed for the fellowship - nonono).
Nevertheless might try out a few of your suggestions. A different kind of fantasy, but would recommend Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell - also because it seems a sequel is in the making: www.theguardian.com/books/2019/sep/30/jonathan-strange-and-mr-norrell-author-return-susanna-clarke-piranesi
a sequel?! this is fantastic news, thank you! allow me to recommend to you another, slightly more esoteric fantasy Brian Catling's The Vorrh Trilogy.
Lots of plot twists in "The Lightbringer" series. Can't wait to finish the final book.
Same here...but I feel like I'm going to have to do a re-read because there has been so much happening over the course of the books I've forgotten half the plot threads. 😂
Malazan first book is so darn frustrating to read. the audacity of some writers that just assume we are gonna keep coming back for no reason....nonetheless I will hate-read this to the end.
P.S. loved your reviews. subscribed
Jacqueline Carey is my favorite adult fantasy author. I particularly love her Phèdre Trilogy, although it is adult in the truest sense and deals with some very extreme subject matter.
Agreed. The Phèdre Trilogy is something very special. Though not for prudes! :)
Have you read the Black Company series by Glen Cook?
I love Cook. The Dread Empire series is also excellent.
I started listening to them as they were on a laptop a friend lent me inow need to get hold of books 5 and beyond, i thoroughly enjoyed them first 4 :)
the Robin Hobb books are the best books I have inhaled in all of my 50+ years. The first trilogy is followed by two more trilogies and another one in the same world but different characters. There is VERY few books I would reread over and over and over again when the average length of one is 8-900 pages and there is nine of them. I love long books but they have to be magnificent long books. The Farseer books are that =)
What? No Discworld? It's definitely adult and definitely fantasy... with a healthy dose of satire...