In “The Goblin Emperor,” young Maia suddenly becomes emperor after his father and older brothers perish in an airship accident. Completely unprepared for leadership, Maia navigates the court’s complex power struggles.
The novel presents kingdom-building uniquely, centered on political intrigue, diplomacy, and character-driven storytelling. Maia’s journey emphasizes patience, wisdom, and understanding.
Readers see kingdom-building from the viewpoint of someone thrust unexpectedly onto the throne, where each decision directly shapes the empire’s future.
“The Way of Kings” introduces readers to Roshar, a land ravaged by war and mysterious storms. Characters like Kaladin, a former soldier turned slave, and Dalinar, a thoughtful but experienced leader, explore varied paths to leadership and kingdom-building.
Sanderson crafts a world rich in history, magic systems, and political tension. Kaladin’s transformation and Dalinar’s struggle to unite a fractured kingdom show how kingdoms are built not only through conquest but also through honor, trust, and unity.
In Martin’s “Game of Thrones,” ambition, betrayal, and survival mark the struggle for the Iron Throne. Various noble families vie for power, each pursuing their vision of what the realm should become.
Martin shows readers a gritty portrayal of kingdom-building amid political strife and intrigue, where alliances shift, wars ignite, and betrayals unfold unpredictably.
The extensive cast, complex motivations, and morally ambiguous choices highlight the difficulty and cost often involved in constructing and preserving a kingdom.
“The Grace of Kings” takes readers to the island kingdoms of Dara, where two unlikely heroes arise from very different backgrounds. Kuni Garu, smooth and charismatic, and Mata Zyndu, fearsome and idealistic, lead a rebellion against a tyrant emperor.
Liu blends Chinese-inspired history with elements of mythology, political tactics, and warfare.
Through Kuni and Mata’s stories, readers experience differing philosophies and approaches to kingdom-building, reminding us that establishing a stable kingdom often involves sacrifices, compromises, and harsh choices.
Set in a dystopian world, “Mistborn: The Final Empire” tells the story of Vin, a young woman recruited into a crew plotting to overthrow an immortal tyrant. Sanderson skillfully evokes a land oppressed by fear, ash, and mist.
Through Vin’s development and Kelsier’s revolutionary ideals, readers explore how rebellion transforms kingdoms.
Characters face the practical and ethical implications of tearing down a tyrannical regime to build something better, emphasizing the difficulties and uncertainties in kingdom-building after revolution.
“The Once and Future King” offers an imaginative retelling of King Arthur’s story from childhood through his kingship. White emphasizes the moral and ethical dimensions of kingdom-building, highlighted through witty narrative and philosophical reflections.
The novel explores Arthur’s idealistic attempts to build a kingdom based on justice, honor, and peace through legends, humor, and adventure.
Arthur’s interactions with iconic characters like Merlin, Guinevere, and Lancelot illustrate how lofty ideals can shape—and sometimes complicate—kingdom-building.