3.57
Acacia is a complex and captivating epic fantasy series that follows the story of the Akaran family, rulers of the land of Acacia. When a devastating betrayal threatens the stability of the kingdom, the Akarans' children must come together to face their destiny and restore order to the realm.
Richard K. Morgan
The Steel Remains
If you enjoyed the political intrigue and complex characters in Acacia, you'll love The Steel Remains. This grimdark fantasy novel features a damaged hero, Ringil, who must navigate a world filled with treachery, slavery, and ancient enemies. Morgan's writing is just as engaging and thought-provoking as Durham's, with a similar focus on the consequences of power and the importance of identity.
Learn MoreR. Scott Bakker
The Darkness That Comes Before
Fans of Acacia's intricate plotting and epic world-building will find a kindred spirit in R. Scott Bakker's The Darkness That Comes Before. This novel, the first in the Prince of Nothing series, introduces a richly detailed world of religious conflict, political maneuvering, and ancient prophecies. Bakker's writing is erudite and challenging, much like Durham's, and his characters are just as morally complex and fascinating.
Learn MoreGuy Gavriel Kay
The Lions of Al-Rassan
If you appreciated the cultural clashes and historical influences in Acacia, you'll enjoy The Lions of Al-Rassan. This standalone novel is set in a fantasy world inspired by medieval Spain, where three cultures vie for power and survival. Kay's writing is lush and evocative, and his characters are fully realized and sympathetic, even as they make difficult choices in a time of war.
Learn MoreJoe Abercrombie
The First Law Trilogy
For readers who enjoyed the gritty realism and unflinching violence of Acacia, Joe Abercrombie's The First Law Trilogy is a must-read. This series features a cast of morally ambiguous characters, from the cynical and brutal logen Ninefingers to the ruthless and cunning Glokta. Abercrombie's writing is sharp and witty, with a focus on the brutal realities of war and the consequences of power.
Learn MoreMark Lawrence
The Broken Empire series
If you're looking for a dark and twisted fantasy series with a similar focus on political intrigue and moral complexity as Acacia, check out Mark Lawrence's The Broken Empire. This series follows the rise of Jorg, a ruthless and cunning prince who will stop at nothing to claim the throne. Lawrence's writing is brutal and uncompromising, with a focus on the darker aspects of human nature and the corrupting influence of power.
Learn MoreJanny Wurts
The Empire Trilogy
For readers who enjoyed the epic world-building and intricate plotting of Acacia, Janny Wurts' The Empire Trilogy is a great choice. This series is set in a world of political and magical conflict, where two powerful factions vie for control. Wurts' writing is rich and detailed, with a focus on the complex relationships between her characters and the larger world they inhabit.
Learn MoreR.F. Kuang
The Poppy War
For readers who enjoyed the dark and gritty tone of Acacia, as well as its exploration of the consequences of war and the corrupting influence of power, The Poppy War is a great choice. This novel is set in a fantasy world inspired by early 20th-century China, and follows a young woman's journey from poverty and obscurity to the halls of power. Kuang's writing is sharp and unflinching, with a focus on the brutal realities of war and the human cost of power.
Learn MoreKatherine Addison
The Goblin Emperor
If you appreciated the political intrigue and complex characters of Acacia, but are looking for a more optimistic and hopeful tone, check out The Goblin Emperor. This novel is set in a world of political conflict and social hierarchy, but its focus is on the power of kindness, empathy, and compassion. Addison's writing is elegant and precise, with a focus on the inner life of her protagonist, a half-goblin prince who must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and intrigue.
Learn MoreBrandon Sanderson
The Way of Kings
For readers who enjoyed the epic world-building and intricate plotting of Acacia, as well as its exploration of the consequences of power and the corrupting influence of ambition, The Way of Kings is a great choice. This novel is the first in a massive fantasy series that spans centuries and continents, and features a huge cast of characters and storylines. Sanderson's writing is clear and engaging, with a focus on the power of imagination and the human spirit.
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