If you enjoy reading books by J. R. R. Tolkien then you might also like the following authors:
Readers who enjoy the imaginative storytelling of J. R. R. Tolkien will likely find C. S. Lewis equally captivating. Both authors shared a friendship and crafted fantasy worlds filled with unforgettable characters and profound themes.
Lewis’s book “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” introduces readers to a mysterious wardrobe that transports siblings Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter into the magical land of Narnia.
In this enchanted realm, animals can speak, eternal winter prevails, and danger lurks in the shadows, especially from the sinister White Witch. Hope surfaces in the figure of the lion Aslan, whose presence hints at powerful transformations for Narnia.
The gripping adventure and deep symbolism Lewis brings to life in Narnia makes this book an appealing journey, especially for fans who cherish “The Hobbit” or “The Lord of the Rings.”
Readers who loved J.R.R. Tolkien’s immersive fantasy worlds might also enjoy George R. R. Martin’s books. Martin’s epic fantasy series “A Game of Thrones” introduces us to the dangerous land of Westeros. Noble families are caught up in a ruthless struggle for the Iron Throne.
Full of knights, dragons, betrayal, and shifting loyalties, the book creates a dark and vivid world. Martin is known for making his characters complex, flawed, and deeply human. The stakes remain high, and tragedy can strike at any moment.
It’s a world where power isn’t easy to keep and honor doesn’t always lead to survival.
Readers who enjoy J.R.R. Tolkien might appreciate exploring Ursula K. Le Guin’s imaginative worlds and rich storytelling, particularly in her book “A Wizard of Earthsea.” Le Guin builds a vivid world called Earthsea, made up of scattered islands ruled by magic and the sea.
The story follows Ged, a gifted but headstrong young mage. He seeks training at a respected wizard school but quickly learns that powerful magic has a price.
After a reckless spell releases a dangerous shadow into the world, Ged must confront his mistakes and face the darkness he unleashed.
Le Guin’s Earthsea novels offer thoughtful themes, strong character development, and detailed world-building, all qualities fans of Tolkien’s Middle-earth may find appealing.
Terry Brooks is an author you might enjoy if you’re a fan of epic fantasy authors like J.R.R. Tolkien. Brooks is best known for his “Shannara” series, starting with the first book, “The Sword of Shannara.”
This story introduces Shea Ohmsford, a young man who finds out he’s the only one able to wield a powerful magic sword. Shea’s quiet life changes drastically when he learns he must defeat the dark Warlock Lord threatening the Four Lands.
Brooks creates vivid landscapes, intriguing characters, and a classic struggle between good and evil. Fans of quests, magical artifacts, and sweeping adventures often find Brooks’ storytelling resonates well after reading Tolkien’s works.
If you enjoy J.R.R. Tolkien’s rich world-building and epic storytelling, Robert Jordan’s “The Eye of the World” could be a perfect match. This novel is the first in “The Wheel of Time” series, a detailed fantasy saga filled with magic, prophecy, and vivid characters.
The story follows Rand al’Thor, a young farmer from a simple village whose life changes dramatically when dark forces threaten his peaceful home. He and his friends set out on a journey guided by Moiraine, a powerful figure who believes Rand holds a mysterious destiny.
Readers are treated to intricate details of cultures, histories, and magic systems that create an immersive experience. Jordan’s writing style and storytelling approach capture a sense of adventure and depth that Tolkien fans will appreciate.
Readers who enjoyed J. R. R. Tolkien’s epic fantasies may find Brandon Sanderson’s storytelling engaging and satisfying. Sanderson creates detailed magical worlds and memorable characters in imaginative settings.
His novel “Mistborn: The Final Empire” centers on an oppressive empire ruled by a tyrannical being known as the Lord Ruler. In this world, magic revolves around metals—people known as Mistborn can consume metals to gain extraordinary abilities.
The story follows a street-smart girl named Vin, who discovers unexpected powers and joins a group determined to overthrow the seemingly invincible ruler. The plot moves swiftly through exciting twists, challenges, and well-planned magical confrontations.
Readers drawn to heroic journeys against impossible odds, mysterious magic systems, and layered characters may appreciate Brandon Sanderson’s “Mistborn” saga.
Readers who enjoyed J.R.R. Tolkien’s detailed worlds and memorable heroes might also connect with Patrick Rothfuss. Rothfuss creates vivid, believable settings and characters you want to root for.
In his book “The Name of the Wind,” we meet Kvothe, a legendary figure whose true story differs a great deal from how people describe him. The book follows Kvothe as he rises from orphaned musician to gifted student of magic and genius storyteller.
Rothfuss explores music, magic, and human complexity through Kvothe’s adventures, struggles, and friendships. Readers who appreciate Tolkien’s depth and emotional sincerity might find similar enjoyment in Rothfuss’s storytelling.
Books by Guy Gavriel Kay often appeal to readers who enjoy J.R.R. Tolkien’s blend of fantasy, myth, and deep historical inspiration. Kay’s novel “The Lions of Al-Rassan” is a standout example, set in a land inspired by medieval Spain.
Three vivid protagonists from opposing religious and cultural backgrounds—a soldier, a physician, and a poet-warrior—find themselves caught in shifting loyalties and dangerous alliances.
This book is filled with quietly powerful scenes of friendship and conflict, featuring political intrigue, battles, and complex relationships.
If impressive world-building and memorable characters matter to you as a Tolkien fan, exploring Kay’s rich storytelling can bring rewarding surprises.
Tad Williams is an author well worth exploring for readers who enjoy the immersive worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien. Known for his richly detailed settings and intricate characters, Williams builds epic narratives readers can easily get lost in.
His book “The Dragonbone Chair” invites us into the land of Osten Ard, a kingdom troubled by uncertain leadership and dark omens. We follow Simon, a young kitchen boy whose ordinary life soon becomes filled with adventure, danger, and prophecy.
Williams creates a world filled with powerful magic, fascinating creatures, and deep lore intertwined with politics and history. Fans of Tolkien’s Middle-earth will find Osten Ard similarly vivid, complex, and thrilling to explore.
Raymond E. Feist is an American fantasy author famous for creating detailed worlds and epic adventures. Fans of J. R. R. Tolkien often find Feist’s storytelling appealing for its memorable characters, magic, and grand battles between good and evil.
His book “Magician” tells the story of a young orphan named Pug who becomes apprenticed to a magician. When mysterious invaders from another world threaten the Kingdom of the Isles, Pug must discover hidden powers within himself.
“Magician” spans complex worlds, magic, friendship, loyalty, and epic battles that decide the fate of entire kingdoms. Readers who love Tolkien’s intricate histories and heroic quests usually find themselves immersed deeply in Feist’s universe.
David Eddings is a fantasy writer known for his engaging storytelling and vivid characters. If you enjoy the epic adventures of Tolkien, you’ll probably appreciate his series starting with “Pawn of Prophecy.”
In this first book of “The Belgariad,” a young farm boy named Garion finds himself caught up in a prophecy and destiny larger than he imagined.
Alongside an intriguing group of companions—including sorcerers, rogues, and warriors—Garion journeys across kingdoms to confront an ancient evil that threatens the world.
Eddings creates a detailed and lively world filled with magic, mystery, humor, and lively dialogues, making it easy to get lost in his stories.
Steven Erikson is a Canadian fantasy author famous for creating elaborate worlds and deep, complex characters.
In his book “Gardens of the Moon,” readers are introduced to the vast Malazan Empire, a land filled with legendary warriors, ancient magic, and gods who meddle in human affairs.
The story follows different characters—an ambitious noblewoman, a weary sergeant, and a young recruit caught up in events much larger than himself. As power shifts and ancient powers awaken, you encounter epic battles, mysterious assassins, and intriguing political dynamics.
Tolkien fans can connect with Erikson’s detailed world-building, updated to carry darker, more morally complex characters and storylines.
Readers who enjoy J. R. R. Tolkien’s detailed fantasy worlds and exciting adventures may also find great pleasure in the works of R. A. Salvatore. Salvatore is best known for his “The Legend of Drizzt” series, set in the richly built world of the Forgotten Realms.
A great place to start is “Homeland,” the first book in “The Dark Elf Trilogy.” This story introduces readers to Drizzt Do’Urden, a dark elf who struggles against the cruel traditions of his underground homeland, the city of Menzoberranzan.
As Drizzt questions the morality of his people’s society, he faces difficult choices that put him at odds with his own family.
Full of vivid battles, strong characters, and complex moral themes, Salvatore brings fantasy readers a satisfying journey they may love as much as Tolkien’s classics.
Andrzej Sapkowski is a Polish fantasy writer known best for his series “The Witcher,” a saga highly regarded by Tolkien fans for its detailed fantasy world and memorable characters.
The first book, “The Last Wish,” introduces readers to Geralt of Rivia, a seasoned witcher who travels a land filled with monsters, magic, and political intrigue.
Geralt uses his skills as a monster hunter to confront various supernatural threats, navigating moral dilemmas and complex relationships along the way. Sapkowski adds depth and humor to his storytelling through well-crafted dialogue and unique characters.
For readers who enjoyed Tolkien’s masterful storytelling and elaborate fantasy realms, Sapkowski offers adventures and a compelling world worth exploring.
Readers who appreciate J. R. R. Tolkien’s imaginative worlds and myths might also enjoy Neil Gaiman. Gaiman’s fantasy often blends ancient legends with the modern world, creating fresh and fascinating tales.
His novel “American Gods” follows Shadow, a recently released convict who meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday. Shadow soon discovers he is caught between old gods from mythology and newer gods of media and technology, locked in a looming conflict.
The story weaves mythic elements with Americana, delivering an engaging narrative full of surprises and vivid characters.