3.97
Part of "Dragonlance: Rise of Solamnia" series
"The Crown and the Sword" by Douglas Niles is a captivating high fantasy novel that combines political intrigue, magical adventure, and romantic entanglements in a richly detailed world. This book is the second in the series "The Sword of Calandra," following "The Shattered Sword," and it continues the saga of the kingdom of Elabrium and its struggle to maintain peace and stability in the face of internal and external threats. At the heart of the story is the complex relationship between Prince Aric and Lady Katerin, who are bound by a magical bond that threatens to consume them both. As Aric grapples with his duty to his kingdom and his love for Katerin, he must also confront a powerful sorcerer who seeks to destroy Elabrium and claim its magical artifacts for himself. Niles's world-building is exceptional, with a deep history and mythology that inform every aspect of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with flaws and strengths that make them feel real and human. The political intrigue is reminiscent of George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, with shifting alliances and betrayals that keep the reader on their toes. One of the standout features of "The Crown and the Sword" is Niles's ability to weave together multiple storylines and perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and adventure. The pacing is excellent, with plenty of action and suspense to keep the reader engaged, but also moments of introspection and character development that add depth and nuance to the story. Overall, "The Crown and the Sword" is a must-read for fans of high fantasy, political intrigue, and romantic adventure. Douglas Niles has created a world that is both familiar and fresh, with characters that are complex and compelling. This book is a worthy successor to "The Shattered Sword" and sets the stage for an epic conclusion in the final book of the series...
Raymond E. Feist
Magician: Apprentice
If you enjoyed the political intrigue and magical elements in 'The Crown and the Sword', you'll love 'Magician: Apprentice'. This book, the first in the Riftwar Saga, follows the story of Pug, a young man with innate magical abilities, as he navigates the complex world of warring kingdoms and courtly machinations.
Learn MorePatrick Rothfuss
The Name of the Wind
For readers who appreciated the coming-of-age aspect of 'The Crown and the Sword', 'The Name of the Wind' is a must-read. This book tells the story of Kvothe, a legendary musician, magician, and adventurer, as he recounts his life story, filled with magic, love, and heartbreak.
Learn MoreJoe Abercrombie
The Blade Itself
If you're looking for a gritty, realistic take on the fantasy genre, similar to 'The Crown and the Sword', try 'The Blade Itself'. This book, the first in the First Law trilogy, features a cast of morally ambiguous characters, including a torturer, a barbarian warrior, and a nobleman with a dark secret.
Learn MoreScott Lynch
The Lies of Locke Lamora
Fans of the thieving and deception in 'The Crown and the Sword' will enjoy 'The Lies of Locke Lamora'. This book tells the story of Locke Lamora, a gifted con artist, as he and his band of thieves, the Gentlemen Bastards, pull off elaborate heists and scams in a corrupt and decadent city.
Learn MoreBrandon Sanderson
The Final Empire
If you're looking for a fantasy book with a unique magic system, similar to 'The Crown and the Sword', try 'The Final Empire'. This book, the first in the Mistborn trilogy, takes place in a world where ash falls from the sky and a rare group of people, called Mistborn, have the ability to metabolize metals to gain special powers.
Learn MoreGlen Cook
The Black Company
If you're looking for a military-focused fantasy book, similar to 'The Crown and the Sword', try 'The Black Company'. This book tells the story of a group of mercenaries, the Black Company, as they fight in a brutal and unforgiving war, facing off against powerful sorcerers and mythical creatures.
Learn MoreKatherine Addison
The Goblin Emperor
For readers who appreciated the political intrigue and courtly drama in 'The Crown and the Sword', 'The Goblin Emperor' is a must-read. This book tells the story of Maia, a half-goblin prince who becomes emperor after his father and brothers are killed in a suspicious accident, and must navigate the treacherous world of court politics and backstabbing.
Learn More