With the epic conclusion of Game of Thrones, there is now a gaping hole in our hearts that needs desperately to be filled with chaotic power struggles, violence and war that the show has kept us occupied with for 6 weeks. Here are some book series that provide all the political back-stabbing drama of Game of Thrones without bingeing the show on repeat.
- The Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo
Leigh Bardugo’s YA fantasy series is inspired by 1800s Tsarist Russia as it follows a young woman who discovers she has powers in a world that wants to abuse said powers. Like Game of Thrones, this series gives readers monsters, not quite the white walkers but nonetheless creepy, politics of the court, witty banter, intense battles and anti-heroes we can’t help but fall in love with. We watch Alina confront the secrets of the Grisha and of her heart with an amazing cast of characters and a well-built world you can only wish you were a part of. And better yet, this show is soon to becoming a series on Netflix, so much like GOT, this you’ll be able to watch these characters come alive on the screen.
- A Darker Shade of Magic by VE Schwab
If you’re a fan of the more magical aspects of GOT, particularly character Melisandre, A Darker Shade of Magic is the series to read. Exploring evil-scheming magicians, dark magic that has the ability to corrupt almost anything, especially London and forbidden items, Schwab builds a compulsively addictive elaborate fantasy world. The plot involves four parallel worlds with four parallel Londons each with a different history, ruler and society, much like the different kingdoms of George R.R. Martin’s world. Only the Antari, those born with magic in their blood can move between these worlds of which our protagonist Kell is one. Readers get to see Kell’s morality place him in dangerous but exciting to read positions. Basically, if you’re a fan of magic, parallel universes, deadly sins, this is the series for you. But let me warn you, do not read this while trying to study for exams. Your productivity level will be non-existent.
- An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
There’s clearly a thread in this article as yet again this is another YA series that’s worth a read if you’re looking to fill that gaping Game of Thrones hole in your heart. Sabaa Tahir’s world is based on Ancient Rome as Elias, a soldier of the Martial Empire struggles with his destiny as the son of the evil and important Commandant and Laia, a slave only looking to survive. This is a series of defiance, betrayal, love, and of course, fast-paced chaos and war. And if you’re craving the cliff hangers and plot twists that make Game of Thrones, you’ve come to the right place. One more chapter doesn’t exist with this series. So, after we’ve finished mourning the loss of some of our favourite characters in the close of Game of Thrones and finally accepted it is not in fact coming back, get stuck into some of these series as they will provide everything you’ve just said goodbye to and more.
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