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Ship of Magic by Robin Hobb

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Love Ship of Magic but not sure what to read next?

These picks are popular with readers who enjoyed this book. Complete a quick Shelf Talk to get recommendations made just for you! Warning: possible spoilers for Ship of Magic below.

In Ship of Magic, did you enjoy ...

... the interplay of a large cast of memorable characters?

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

If you enjoyed following the intertwined fates of Althea, Kennit, Wintrow, and Vivacia in Ship of Magic, you'll love The Lies of Locke Lamora. The story centers on the Gentlemen Bastards, a tight-knit group of thieves whose diverse talents and clashing personalities drive both the plot and emotional stakes. Each member, from Locke’s clever schemes to Jean’s loyalty, brings a unique voice to the ensemble, making every chapter compelling.

... rich, intricately described worlds and cultures?

The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold

If you were captivated by the detailed world of Bingtown, its trading families, and the sentient ships, The Curse of Chalion offers a similarly immersive experience. Bujold crafts a vivid setting with unique religious systems, political intrigue, and a sense of lived-in history that echoes Hobb’s approach. You'll find yourself just as invested in the customs and mysteries of Chalion as you were in the Liveship Traders’ world.

... characters who undergo profound personal change?

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

If you were drawn to the journeys of Althea and Wintrow as they struggle with identity, inheritance, and self-discovery, The Goblin Emperor will resonate with you. Maia, an outcast thrust into the imperial spotlight, must navigate court politics and his own insecurities, growing into a leader with empathy and strength. The emotional depth and transformative arcs mirror the growth seen in Hobb’s characters.

... sweeping, epic adventures that span vast geographies and cultures?

The Bone Ships by RJ Barker

If you loved the grand voyage of the Vivacia across treacherous seas and the vast, interconnected stakes, The Bone Ships will sweep you away. This nautical fantasy follows a crew of outcasts on a quest that could change the fate of their world, complete with massive sea creatures, ancient rivalries, and high-seas battles. The sense of scale and adventure is truly epic, akin to Hobb’s Liveships.

... multiple points of view that reveal a complex, interconnected narrative?

The Priory Of The Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

If you enjoyed how Ship of Magic unfolds through the eyes of Althea, Kennit, Wintrow, and others—each with their own secrets and ambitions—The Priory of the Orange Tree offers a similarly rich tapestry. The novel weaves together the perspectives of queens, dragonriders, and scholars from across continents, building a sprawling yet cohesive story that rewards your attention to every detail.

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