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The Fall of the Kings by Ellen Kushner and Delia Sherman

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In The Fall of the Kings, did you enjoy ...

... complex, intertwining relationships among an ensemble of characters?

Swordspoint by Ellen Kushner

If you enjoyed the dynamic web of relationships between Basil, Theron, and their academic and political circles in The Fall of the Kings, you'll find Swordspoint equally captivating. The novel immerses you in a city where nobles, swordsmen, and scholars all vie for influence, each with distinct motivations and secrets. You'll love getting lost in the shifting alliances and rivalries among characters like Richard St. Vier, Alec, and the nobles of Riverside.

... political maneuvering and court intrigue?

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

If the academic and royal power struggles in The Fall of the Kings drew you in, The Goblin Emperor will sweep you up in its intricately plotted court politics. Maia, a half-goblin unexpectedly thrust onto the imperial throne, must navigate a labyrinth of plots, betrayals, and shifting alliances. The book’s focus on etiquette, tradition, and danger lurking within every conversation will give you the same thrill of intrigue and subtle manipulation.

... rich, immersive worldbuilding with historical and magical depth?

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

If you loved the elaborate setting and layered history—where magic and scholarship intertwine—in The Fall of the Kings, you’ll be enchanted by Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell. Clarke’s novel meticulously reconstructs a magical England, complete with footnotes, legends, and academic disputes. The rivalry and camaraderie between Strange and Norrell echoes the academic tensions and secrets at the heart of Kushner and Sherman’s work.

... diverse characters with a broad range of identities and backgrounds?

The Priory Of The Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

If the nuanced representation of queer characters and the exploration of identity in The Fall of the Kings resonated with you, The Priory of the Orange Tree offers a sweeping epic with a richly diverse cast. From Ead’s secretive magic to Sabran’s royal burdens and the intertwining of cultures and mythologies, you’ll appreciate the inclusivity and depth as much as the plot.

... lush, poetic prose and ornate storytelling?

Palimpsest by Catherynne M. Valente

If you found yourself savoring the lyrical, evocative language and ornate descriptions in The Fall of the Kings, then Palimpsest will delight you with its rich, dreamlike prose. Valente’s story of four strangers linked by a magical city is filled with vivid imagery and sumptuous language that creates an immersive, almost tangible atmosphere.

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