If you enjoy reading books by Sherwood Smith then you might also like the following authors:
Tamora Pierce writes stories filled with strong characters and vibrant fantasy worlds, often following young heroes finding their strength. Her style is clear, engaging, and accessible, focusing heavily on themes of courage, friendship, and growth.
Readers who enjoy Sherwood Smith's adventurous tales and compelling heroes will likely appreciate Pierce’s Alanna: The First Adventure, the first book in her beloved "Song of the Lioness" series.
Robin McKinley is popular for her beautifully woven fairy tale retellings, rich imagery, and thoughtfully crafted heroines. Her writing carefully balances familiar elements of classic fantasy with fresh and imaginative twists.
Fans of Sherwood Smith who enjoy intricate world-building and courageous protagonists would especially appreciate McKinley’s The Blue Sword, a novel filled with adventure, magic, and self-discovery.
Mercedes Lackey creates accessible, immersive fantasy worlds known for humanity, empathy, and magical companions. She is skilled at building relationships between her characters and tackling themes like found family, self-acceptance, and loyalty.
If you enjoy the camaraderie and heartfelt storytelling in Sherwood Smith’s novels, you might enjoy Lackey's well-loved novel, Arrows of the Queen, the first book in the "Heralds of Valdemar" series.
C.J. Cherryh’s writing is known for depth, complexity, and carefully constructed worlds. Her stories often explore intriguing characters caught between cultures and conflicting loyalties.
Her narrative style is layered but clear, perfect for fans who value detailed, thoughtful storytelling similar to Sherwood Smith’s work. Cherryh's The Pride of Chanur, featuring interesting characters and interstellar intrigue, is a great starting point.
Patricia A. McKillip's fantasy writing is enchanting and lyrical, filled with poetic language and intricate storytelling. Her tales often focus on magical mysteries and personal journeys, reflecting strong themes of transformation, identity, and the power of words and stories.
Those who enjoy Sherwood Smith’s immersive storytelling and thoughtful exploration of character growth may find McKillip’s highly praised work, The Forgotten Beasts of Eld, a satisfying read.
Juliet Marillier writes vivid fantasy stories, often blending folklore, magical elements, and nuanced characters. If you liked Sherwood Smith's immersive worlds, try Marillier's Daughter of the Forest.
It's a beautifully retold fairy tale with deep emotional depth and themes of courage, love, and resilience.
Megan Whalen Turner creates clever plots that reward careful reading, filled with intricate political maneuvering and subtle storytelling. Like Smith, she excels at developing complex, memorable characters.
Her novel The Thief introduces Eugenides, a clever and resourceful protagonist whose adventures unfold in surprising and satisfying ways.
Lois McMaster Bujold is known for wry humor, strong character development, and morally thoughtful narratives. Her fantasy novel The Curse of Chalion features fascinating political intrigue, relatable heroes, and a rich, well-crafted world.
Sherwood Smith's fans who enjoy character-driven storytelling will find plenty to admire in Bujold's work.
Naomi Novik blends history, fantasy, and engaging characters to shape novels that feel fresh and grounded. In Uprooted, magical forests, ancient evils, and strong-willed protagonists come together in an absorbing tale.
Smith's readers seeking vivid worlds filled with drama and magic will love Novik's distinctive style and creative settings.
Katherine Kurtz brings medieval-inspired worlds to life with rich historical detail and intricate dynastic politics.
Fans of Sherwood Smith's emphasis on detailed world-building and royal intrigue will enjoy Kurtz's Deryni Rising, a classic fantasy filled with political tension, religious influences, and believable magic.
Anne McCaffrey creates vivid fantasy worlds through approachable storytelling, adventurous plots, and emotionally engaging characters. Her books often blend science fiction elements with fantasy themes, focusing on relationships, courage, and belonging.
In her popular novel, Dragonflight, readers explore the fascinating world of Pern, where dragons and their riders must face extraordinary challenges and forge strong friendships.
Elizabeth Moon writes clear, engaging fantasy and science fiction that highlights believable characters in intricate worlds. Her stories feature themes of honor, courage, and personal growth, similar in spirit to Sherwood Smith.
In The Deed of Paksenarrion, readers follow the journey of a brave young heroine as she navigates the demanding paths of soldiering and finds her own strength.
Sharon Shinn crafts thought-provoking fantasy worlds filled with characters whose relationships and personal growth stand central to the plot.
Her graceful storytelling style and themes centered on love, identity, and personal destiny resonate with readers who enjoy Sherwood Smith.
Archangel introduces readers to Samaria, a beautifully imagined world blending music, magic, and romance, where compelling characters struggle to fulfill their roles in a carefully balanced society.
Kristen Britain offers readers exciting adventures, relatable characters, and compelling storytelling. Her approach balances character-driven narratives with thrilling action, echoing Sherwood Smith's enjoyable style.
In her novel Green Rider, Britain follows young heroine Karigan as she embarks on a perilous journey filled with magic, intriguing characters, and brave deeds that help define her place in her world.
Kate Elliott creates immersive fantasy worlds full of complex social dynamics, political intrigue, and relatable, strong-willed characters.
Her style blends captivating storytelling, detailed worldbuilding, and thoughtful exploration of challenging themes like power, justice, and identity.
Readers who appreciate Sherwood Smith's thoughtful narratives will enjoy Elliott's well-known novel, Cold Magic, which integrates richly detailed history and powerful characters into an engaging tale of adventure and political upheaval.