If you enjoy reading books by R. F. Kuang then you might also like the following authors:
Brandon Sanderson is a fantasy author known for vivid world-building, complex characters, and unique magic systems. Fans of R. F. Kuang’s exploration of power struggles and personal sacrifice might enjoy Sanderson’s “Mistborn: The Final Empire.”
Set in a bleak, ash-covered world ruled by the tyrannical Lord Ruler, the story follows Vin, a young street thief who discovers she possesses unexpected magical abilities. Vin joins forces with a daring group of rebels determined to challenge the oppressive regime.
Secrets, betrayal, and intense action unfold as the rebels attempt a daring heist to overthrow the seemingly immortal Lord Ruler. Readers who appreciated Kuang’s morally complex characters and high stakes storytelling will find much to enjoy in Sanderson’s narrative.
China Miéville is an author known for blending fantasy, science fiction, and speculative fiction with richly imagined worlds and thoughtful social themes.
If you enjoy the mix of alternate history, cultural complexity, and political commentary in R. F. Kuang’s novels, Miéville’s “Perdido Street Station” could be a great match.
Set in the sprawling, gritty city-state of New Crobuzon, the story follows a scientist named Isaac Dan der Grimnebulin, who is approached by a mysterious wingless bird-man with a seemingly impossible request—to help regain his power of flight.
But Isaac’s experiments unleash a terrifying force that threatens the entire city, and what starts as personal ambition soon becomes a desperate struggle for redemption and survival.
The vivid portrayal of a flawed society marked by class struggle and a mix of strange, otherworldly creatures makes this novel both imaginative and deeply thought-provoking.
If you enjoy the thought-provoking narratives and richly constructed worlds of R. F. Kuang, then you might appreciate the imaginative storytelling of Gene Wolfe. Wolfe’s writing is known for its sophisticated plots, complex characters, and worlds layered with mystery.
In “The Shadow of the Torturer,” the first book of his acclaimed series “The Book of the New Sun,” we meet Severian, a young apprentice in the guild of torturers.
After breaking a sacred rule of his order, Severian is expelled and sent into exile, forced to travel through a decaying and surreal landscape full of secrets and danger.
The story weaves together elements of fantasy, science fiction, and profound philosophical reflection, all told through Severian’s vivid yet unreliable perspective.
Wolfe’s carefully crafted story rewards close reading and multiple revisits, much in the way Kuang’s readers relish her layered and intricate narratives.
Guy Gavriel Kay is a Canadian author known for fantasy novels deeply inspired by historical events and cultures. If you enjoyed R. F. Kuang’s blend of fantasy with historical themes, Kay’s “Under Heaven” might appeal to you.
Set in a world inspired by Tang Dynasty China, it follows Shen Tai, a young man who receives an extravagant and dangerous gift from an imperial princess after honoring the dead of a great battle.
This gift propels him into the dangerous politics of the royal court, bringing intrigue, rivalry, and hidden agendas to his doorstep.
Kay crafts characters and plots that illuminate human emotion and political maneuvering, which readers of Kuang’s works might particularly appreciate.
Ken Liu is an award-winning author and translator known for blending fantasy, science fiction, history, and Asian-inspired themes. Fans of R.F. Kuang’s historical fantasy will appreciate Liu’s novel “The Grace of Kings.”
The story follows two rebels, Kuni Garu, a clever bandit with a charismatic spirit, and Mata Zyndu, a fierce fighter driven by honor, as they lead a rebellion against a powerful empire.
Set against an immersive backdrop influenced by ancient Chinese history, the book features memorable characters, political maneuvering, and epic conflicts that shape the destiny of nations.
If you enjoyed the complex relationships and intricate world-building found in Kuang’s books, Ken Liu’s storytelling offers a similarly engaging experience.
If you enjoy the narratives of R. F. Kuang, Naomi Novik is an author you might appreciate. Novik seamlessly blends history with fantasy in unique ways.
Her book “Uprooted” tells the story of Agnieszka, a young woman chosen by a mysterious wizard named the Dragon to live in his secluded tower for ten years. Despite her reluctance, Agnieszka discovers within herself surprising magical abilities.
Together, she and the Dragon must confront a dark, haunting force—the sinister, corrupted Wood that threatens to consume the surrounding kingdoms.
The novel offers vivid storytelling, engaging magical elements, and a strong, relatable heroine similar to the type you’d find in Kuang’s writings.
Adrian Tchaikovsky is a British author known for imaginative storytelling and richly developed worlds. If you enjoyed the depth and historical influence of R. F. Kuang’s works, Tchaikovsky offers a similarly rewarding read.
In his novel “Children of Time,” humanity seeks refuge among the stars after Earth’s ecological collapse. On a distant planet, Earth scientists attempt to accelerate evolution in monkeys to produce intelligent life, but the experiment takes an unexpected turn.
Instead of monkeys, spiders become the inheritors of advanced intelligence. Generations later, the last human survivors approach this new civilization, unaware of the society that now awaits them.
The story alternates between human struggles and the unique spider civilization, providing thoughtful perspectives on what it truly means to be intelligent, civilized, and human.
Sabaa Tahir is an author known for creating dynamic worlds filled with powerful conflicts, deep characters, and stories that explore complex political tensions and personal struggles.
Her book “An Ember in the Ashes” introduces readers to the cruel, militaristic Martial Empire, where defiance is met with ruthless violence.
The story follows Laia, a desperate young woman who infiltrates the oppressive military academy to save her brother, and Elias, a soldier yearning for freedom from tyranny. Their paths collide in a dangerous dance of secrecy, rebellion, and sacrifice.
Those drawn to R. F. Kuang’s sharp portrayal of war, sacrifice, and challenging moral questions in “The Poppy War” will likely connect with the intense stakes and vivid storytelling Sabaa Tahir offers.
Joe Abercrombie is a British author known for writing dark fantasy with morally complex characters and sharp storytelling. If you enjoy R. F. Kuang’s ability to weave themes of power, ambition, and violence into her stories, Abercrombie may be a good match for you.
His novel “The Blade Itself” introduces readers to the war-weary barbarian Logen Ninefingers, cunning Inquisitor Glokta, and arrogant swordsman Jezal dan Luthar.
As lives clash amid building conflict and shadowy politics, each character wrestles with choices that blur heroism and villainy. The book masterfully captures a gritty, realistic world full of action and tension.
Mark Lawrence is a great choice for readers who enjoy the dark fantasy and intense storytelling of R. F. Kuang. His book, “Prince of Thorns,” introduces Jorg Ancrath, a ruthless young prince hardened by brutal experiences.
After witnessing the murder of his mother and younger brother, Jorg grows into a violent and driven character determined to claim his rightful throne. Lawrence’s storytelling is bold and filled with morally complex characters.
For fans who appreciate Kuang’s exploration of power, violence, and emotionally charged themes, “Prince of Thorns” provides a similarly intense reading experience.
N. K. Jemisin is an author whose vivid fantasy worlds and strong storytelling appeal to readers who enjoy R. F. Kuang. Her novel “The Fifth Season” opens with a powerful earthquake that signals the onset of an apocalyptic period called the Fifth Season.
This disaster-prone continent sees civilizations collapse and humanity struggle under constant environmental threat.
The story follows three characters—a grieving mother seeking her kidnapped daughter, a young girl taken from her family to be trained, and a woman forced into service due to her magical powers.
Jemisin skillfully creates tension around themes of survival, oppression, and the devastating force of nature.
For those who admired Kuang’s exploration of complex characters and morally challenging worlds, Jemisin’s “The Fifth Season” offers an equally rich and emotionally resonant read.
Readers who enjoy R. F. Kuang’s blend of complex characters, rich worlds, and powerful storytelling may find something equally impressive in N.K. Jemisin’s work. Jemisin is celebrated for her genre-defying narratives and vivid world-building.
Her novel “The Fifth Season” is set in a world regularly devastated by catastrophic seismic events. The story revolves around three characters at different stages in life, each blessed—and cursed—with the power to control the earth itself.
Jemisin carefully reveals their struggles, oppressions, and hopes. She guides readers through a story that touches on survival, systemic injustice, and personal resilience.
The complexity of “The Fifth Season,” combined with Jemisin’s great world-building skills, offers readers a thoughtful, unforgettable reading experience.
Readers who enjoy R. F. Kuang’s sharp storytelling and complex characters might also appreciate Scott Lynch. Lynch is known for clever plotting, rich world-building, and sharp dialogue.
His novel “The Lies of Locke Lamora” introduces readers to Locke Lamora, an orphan turned master thief.
Locke is leader of the Gentleman Bastards, a group that pulls clever heists on the rich elite of Camorr—a city inspired by Renaissance Venice, filled with intrigue, corruption, and crime.
When a dangerous new threat emerges from the criminal underworld, Locke’s latest con becomes more complicated and risky than he ever imagined. This novel beautifully combines witty banter, memorable friendships, and vividly corrupt city politics.
If you enjoy R. F. Kuang’s vivid storytelling and complex characters, you might find Steven Erikson’s novels fascinating. Erikson is famous for crafting vast fantasy worlds full of rich history, deep politics, and intense drama.
His book “Gardens of the Moon,” the first installment of the “Malazan Book of the Fallen” series, introduces readers to the Malazan Empire as it plunges into an ambitious war to conquer the last remaining Free Cities.
The plot twists through the schemes of gods, assassins, soldiers, and mages as they wrestle each other for control.
Erikson’s narrative doesn’t shy away from morally gray characters, dark twists, and surprising alliances, which makes “Gardens of the Moon” a challenging and rewarding read for fans eager for sophisticated, thought-provoking fantasy.
Readers who enjoy R. F. Kuang’s novels may also appreciate the imaginative world-building and powerful storytelling of Yoon Ha Lee. Lee is well-known for blending science fiction with fantasy, and his work often explores complex themes like war, identity, and empire.
One exciting example is his book “Ninefox Gambit,” the first novel in the Machineries of Empire trilogy. It tells the story of Captain Kel Cheris, a brilliant soldier tasked with retaking a strategic fortress captured by heretics.
To succeed, Cheris teams up with the ghostly consciousness of Shuos Jedao, a legendary general known for military genius—and a bloody, treacherous past. Their uneasy alliance risks turning deadly, as she’s never quite sure if he can be trusted.
The novel offers readers thought-provoking characters and surprising twists, set in a universe infused with mathematical magic and intricate political tensions.