If you’ve ever found yourself waiting anxiously for the next A Song of Ice and Fire installment or binge-watching Game of Thrones, only to feel lost once it ended, you’re not alone. The world of epic fantasy is vast and full of richly imagined worlds, morally ambiguous characters, and intricate political intrigue that rival George R.R. Martin’s Westeros in both scale and complexity.
A Song of Ice and Fire redefined modern fantasy by blending medieval realism with brutal betrayals, layered storytelling, and deep character development. If you’re craving more stories that offer similar thrills—whether it’s the cutthroat maneuvering of court politics, the chaos of war, or the moral dilemmas of flawed heroes—you’re in luck.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 incredible fantasy series that echo the tone, themes, and style of Game of Thrones. Whether you’re drawn to grimdark realism, sweeping worldbuilding, or the slow burn of power struggles, there’s something here for every fan of high-stakes fantasy.
As a side note, if you’re thinking about writing your own fantasy saga inspired by this genre, check out our comprehensive guide on how to start writing your first book. Writing an epic novel takes time, but armed with the right tools—and inspiration—you can do it!
1. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
Summary:
This trilogy follows a cast of morally grey characters across a fractured continent teetering on the edge of war. From broken warriors to ambitious politicians, each protagonist wrestles with their own demons while navigating betrayal, violence, and shifting alliances.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Joe Abercrombie has been dubbed the “British George R.R. Martin” for good reason. His writing is gritty, darkly humorous, and unflinchingly realistic. Like Game of Thrones, this series features antiheroes who often make poor choices, but are compelling nonetheless.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Complex characters, brutal realism, and witty dialogue amidst blood-soaked battles and political scheming.
Standout Features:
Abercrombie’s prose is sharp and immersive, with excellent pacing and unforgettable characters like Sand dan Glokta—a torturer with a tragic past—and the infamous Logan Ninefingers.
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2. The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Summary:
Set in the vast world of Roshar, this epic saga blends magic, warfare, and philosophy. With dozens of POV characters, intricate magic systems, and massive world-shattering conflicts, it’s one of the most ambitious fantasy series ever written.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
While less focused on court politics, The Stormlight Archive shares Game of Thrones’ grandeur and depth. Its morally complex characters, sweeping stakes, and layered storytelling create a similarly immersive experience.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Epic scope, deep lore, and powerful character arcs. Also great if you love magic systems and unique worldbuilding.
Standout Features:
Sanderson’s signature magic systems (like Surgebinding) and stunning battle sequences make this series a visual feast. Plus, his commitment to finishing the series gives fans peace of mind.
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3. The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
Summary:
This ten-book series is an intricate tapestry of gods, empires, and mortal lives interwoven across time and space. Each volume explores different characters and events, yet all contribute to a larger cosmic narrative.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Like GRRM, Erikson creates deeply human characters caught in forces far beyond their control. The series is known for its philosophical undertones, non-linear storytelling, and immense emotional payoff.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Deep thinking, layered narratives, and a willingness to dive into dense, rewarding fiction.
Standout Features:
The sheer ambition and originality of the setting—featuring ancient gods, undead armies, and surreal landscapes—is unmatched in fantasy literature.
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4. The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson
Summary:
Baru Cormorant is a brilliant young woman from a conquered land who rises through the ranks of a colonial empire using her cunning and economic acumen. But as she climbs higher, she begins plotting revenge.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
This series focuses on political manipulation and strategic thinking. Much like Tyrion Lannister or Littlefinger, Baru plays the long game, outmaneuvering enemies with wit rather than swords.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Economic warfare, financial intrigue, and psychological tension in a fantasy setting.
Standout Features:
Its fresh approach to fantasy economics and Baru’s razor-sharp intelligence make this a standout among modern fantasy series.
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5. The King’s Pardon by R.S. Ford
Summary:
Set in a kingdom where the king has gone mad, this duology explores the fallout as nobles and advisors try to hold the realm together—or tear it apart.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Ford’s work dives deep into the treacherous waters of royal courts, where loyalty is fleeting and betrayal is inevitable. The series feels like a smaller-scale but equally gripping version of Westeros.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Court drama, noble schemes, and tightly-wound political tension.
Standout Features:
The intimate focus on a single kingdom allows for deeper exploration of character motivations and relationships.
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6. The Dagger and the Coin by Daniel Abraham
Summary:
A five-book series about a rising empire, a mysterious cult, and the personal costs of war and power. It explores how individuals shape—or are shaped by—the tides of history.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Co-written by Daniel Abraham (who also writes under James S.A. Corey for The Expanse), this series combines political intrigue, economic fantasy, and deeply flawed characters.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Fantasy with a strong economic or social commentary, and nuanced character arcs.
Standout Features:
Abraham’s ability to write believable, evolving characters and his subtle use of magic make this series emotionally resonant.
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7. The Deed of Paksenarrion by Elizabeth Moon
Summary:
Paksenarrion is a sheepfarmer’s daughter who becomes a mercenary, then a paladin, before facing the ultimate test of her faith and strength. The trilogy follows her journey from commoner to hero.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Though more idealistic than GRRM’s work, The Deed of Paksenarrion shares its focus on personal growth, moral struggle, and the cost of leadership. It offers a grounded, realistic look at military life and honor.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Character-driven stories, moral dilemmas, and a blend of realism and myth.
Standout Features:
Moon’s attention to detail when portraying military tactics, healing practices, and spiritual journeys makes this trilogy feel authentic and immersive.
8. The Sundering Series by Jacqueline Carey
Summary:
Starting with Banewreaker and Godslayer, this duology retells the classic tale of a heroic quest—but from the perspective of the villain. The gods themselves wage war, and no side is truly pure.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Carey deconstructs traditional fantasy tropes much like Martin does. Her series questions the nature of good and evil, showing how even heroes can be ruthless and villains can have noble motives.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Mythological reinterpretations and morally complex storytelling.
Standout Features:
The bold choice to tell the story from the “evil” side gives readers a new lens through which to view fantasy epics.
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9. The Lightbringer Series by Brent Weeks
Summary:
In a world powered by light magic, a young draftsman discovers he can manipulate color-based magic to devastating effect. As kingdoms clash, he must master his abilities to survive.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Weeks blends court politics, magical warfare, and personal betrayal into a fast-paced, character-driven series. While lighter in tone than GRRM, it still delivers intrigue and high stakes.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Magic systems, coming-of-age arcs, and power struggles.
Standout Features:
The Prism magic system is visually stunning and thematically rich, making for some of the most imaginative battles in fantasy.
10. The Revelation Space Series by Alastair Reynolds
Summary:
While technically science fiction, this nine-book series explores many of the same themes as Game of Thrones: the fall of civilizations, the corruption of power, and the tragedy of human ambition.
Why It’s Like Game of Thrones:
Fans of Game of Thrones who enjoy philosophical depth, sprawling timelines, and morally complex characters will find much to love here. Reynolds’ universe is vast, dangerous, and full of hidden truths.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy:
Space opera with a literary edge, and large-scale tragedies involving humanity’s greatest flaws.
Standout Features:
Reynolds’ hard sci-fi approach combined with poetic storytelling makes this series a standout in speculative fiction.
Final Thoughts
While nothing may ever quite match the cultural phenomenon of Game of Thrones, the fantasy genre is bursting with stories that share its spirit—complex characters, brutal realism, and the endless dance of power and betrayal.
Whether you prefer your fantasy grimdark, philosophical, or laced with magic and myth, there’s a series here that will capture your imagination and keep you hooked for hours.
So pick up a book, settle into a comfortable chair, and get ready to lose yourself in a world where thrones are earned in blood, and loyalty is never guaranteed. And if you’re feeling inspired to write your own epic saga, remember that self-editing is just the beginning. Use these 13 self-editing tips for authors to polish your draft, and let Book Publishing LLC help bring your vision to life.
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And don’t forget to leave a comment below with your favorite Game of Thrones -style series—we’d love to hear from you!