If you found joy in Ista’s self-discovery and her journey toward healing in Paladin of Souls, you’ll love Sibling Dex’s quest for meaning in A Psalm for the Wild-Built. This gentle, reflective novel follows a tea monk as they break away from routine to find purpose, encountering new friends and unexpected wisdom along the way. Like Ista, Dex’s growth is both poignant and hopeful.

If you appreciated the relentless sense of purpose that drives Ista’s journey in Paladin of Souls, you’ll find the same compelling momentum in The Curse of Chalion. Follow Cazaril as he undertakes a perilous mission to protect the royal family, facing supernatural obstacles and personal sacrifice along the way. This is another immersive Bujold adventure where every step is shaped by a powerful goal.

If you were drawn to Ista’s complex inner world and emotional journey, you’ll be captivated by Maia’s rise in The Goblin Emperor. Thrust into a hostile court, Maia must navigate grief, isolation, and the burdens of unexpected power. Addison’s empathetic portrayal of Maia’s vulnerabilities and growth offers the same kind of rich psychological insight that made Paladin of Souls so memorable.

If you relished the spiritual themes, divine interventions, and questions of faith that permeate Paladin of Souls, you’ll find much to ponder in The Lions of Al-Rassan. This sweeping tale features characters wrestling with destiny, loyalty, and belief in a world shaped by clashing religions—offering the same thoughtful exploration of the sacred and the personal.

If you delighted in the lush, well-realized world of Chalion with its unique pantheon and cultures, Tigana will sweep you into another intricately crafted setting. Kay’s novel features a richly detailed land shaped by conquest and memory, where every custom and legend matters. The immersive worldbuilding provides the same sense of depth and realism that made Paladin of Souls unforgettable.