Must Reads for fans of Tolkien!

Are you a fan of the timeless works of J.R.R. Tolkien and craving more epic adventures, intricate world-building, and richly developed characters? If you've been captivated by the magic of Middle-earth and are looking for your next read, look no further!

We've curated a list of 10 fantastic books that are sure to delight Tolkien fans and transport you to new realms of fantasy. From high fantasy to dark and gritty tales, these books offer epic quests, intricate plots, and thought-provoking themes that will keep you turning the pages long into the night.

So, if you're ready to embark on a new literary journey and explore realms beyond the Shire, dive into this list of recommendations and discover your next favourite read! 

1. "The Wheel of Time" series by Robert Jordan 

This epic fantasy series features a sprawling world, rich world-building, and a complex magic system. It follows a large cast of characters on a grand quest to save the world from a dark force, with themes of good vs. evil, prophecies, and fate. Fans of Tolkien's detailed world-building and epic scope may find similar enjoyment in this series. 

Also available as eAudio (Libby). 

2. "The Stormlight Archive" series by Brandon Sanderson 

This highly acclaimed series features intricate world-building, unique magic systems, and complex characters. It follows multiple viewpoints in a richly imagined world torn by war, politics, and ancient secrets. The series is known for its immersive world-building, epic battles, and themes of honour, leadership, and sacrifice, which may appeal to fans of Tolkien's epic storytelling. 

We also recommend checking out The Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson, starting with the first book; The Final Empire.

3. "The Darker Shades of Magic" series by V.E Schwab 

Most people only know one London; but what if there were several? Kell is one of the last Travelers—magicians with a rare ability to travel between parallel Londons. There's Grey London, dirty and crowded and without magic, home to the mad king George III. There's Red London, where life and magic are revered. Then, White London, ruled by whoever has murdered their way to the throne. But once upon a time, there was Black London...

Also available as eAudio (Libby). 

4. "The Chronicles of Narnia" series by C.S. Lewis

This classic fantasy series is beloved for its allegorical elements and magical adventures. It follows a group of children who discover a parallel world called Narnia filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil. Fans of Tolkien's allegorical themes and imaginative world-building may enjoy this series. 

Also available as an eBook (BorrowBox), eBook (Libby). 

5. "The Kingkiller Chronicle" series by Patrick Rothfuss

This critically acclaimed series follows the life story of the legendary Kvothe, a gifted wizard, musician, and adventurer. It features intricate world-building, lyrical prose, and a captivating narrative that delves into themes of music, magic, love, and loss. Fans of Tolkien's richly detailed world-building and complex characters may appreciate this series. 

6. "The Burning Kingdoms" series by Tasha Suri 

Set in a world inspired by historical India, The Jasmine Throne begins a sweeping new epic fantasy trilogy in which a captive princess and a servant in possession of forbidden magic become unlikely allies--and eventually, much more than allies--on a dark journey to save their empire. Imprisoned by her tyrannical brother, Malini spends her days in isolation in the Hirana: an ancient temple that was once the source of the powerful, magical deathless waters -- but is now little more than a decaying ruin. Priya is a maidservant, one among several who make the treacherous journey to the top of the Hirana every night to clean Malini's chambers. But when Malini accidentally bears witness to Priya's true nature, their destinies become irrevocably tangled. One is a vengeful princess seeking to claim a throne. The other is a priestess seeking to find her family. Together, they will change the fate of an empire

Also available as eAudio (Libby). 

7. "The Gentleman Bastard Sequence" series by Scott Lynch

This fast-paced and witty series follows a group of thieves known as the Gentleman Bastards as they pull off elaborate heists in a richly imagined world. It features clever schemes, colorful characters, and intricate plots filled with twists and turns. Fans of Tolkien's rich characterizations and engaging storytelling may enjoy this series. 

8. "The Farseer Trilogy" series by Robin Hobb

This character-driven series follows the life of Fitz, a royal bastard with a magical ability called the Wit, in a complex world filled with political intrigue, court intrigue, and dragons. It delves into themes of loyalty, family, and sacrifice, with a focus on character development and relationships. Fans of Tolkien's complex characters and intricate plots may appreciate this series. 

Also available as eAudio (Libby), or all three books in one as an eBook (Libby). 

9. "The Broken Empire Trilogy" series by Mark Lawrence

This dark and gritty series follows the rise of a cunning and ruthless protagonist named Jorg Ancrath in a brutal and unforgiving fantasy world. It features complex characters, intense action, and morally ambiguous choices. The series is known for its dark tone, intricate plot, and exploration of themes such as power, revenge, and redemption, which may resonate with fans of Tolkien's complex characters and nuanced storytelling. 

10. The Earthsea Cycle series by Ursula K. Le Guin

This classic fantasy series is renowned for its lyrical prose, richly imagined world, and philosophical themes. It follows the wizard Ged as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and faces challenges that test his wisdom and courage. The series delves into themes of balance, nature, and the consequences of using magic, and is known for its thought-provoking exploration of morality and ethics, which may appeal to fans of Tolkien's philosophical undertones in his works. 

These 10 recommended books all share elements that may resonate with fans of Tolkien's work, such as epic world-building, intricate plots, complex characters, and thematic explorations of morality, ethics, and the human condition.

They offer a range of different styles, tones, and sub-genres within the fantasy genre, providing a diverse selection of reads for those who enjoy Tolkien's storytelling style and themes!