Best Political Fantasy Books December 2024

Before They Are Hanged

Gritty and unrelenting, Abercrombie’s second installment in The First Law trilogy plunges readers deeper into a world of betrayal and brutal warfare. As armies clash and alliances crumble, unlikely heroes emerge from the chaos. The author’s razor-sharp wit and unflinching portrayal of flawed characters kept me riveted. I found myself both horrified and oddly charmed by the morally ambiguous cast, their raw humanity shining through even in the darkest moments. A masterclass in subverting fantasy tropes.

The Blade Itself

Logen Ninefingers, a notorious barbarian, finds himself on a collision course with destiny. Fleeing his blood-soaked past, he’s drawn into a web of intrigue and violence in the crumbling Union. Meanwhile, a vain nobleman grapples with his own demons, and a young apprentice discovers her magical potential. Abercrombie weaves a gritty, darkly humorous tale that subverts fantasy tropes, leaving readers questioning who the real heroes are. With its morally ambiguous characters and brutal world, “The Blade Itself” cuts deep, leaving you hungry for more.

Royal Assassin

Fitz, the royal bastard, returns to Buckkeep a changed man. Haunted by his near-death experience, he grapples with newfound powers and old loyalties. As political intrigue swirls around him, Fitz must navigate treacherous waters, balancing his duties as assassin with his growing bond to the mysterious Fool. Hobb’s masterful prose brings this world to life, weaving a tale of magic, betrayal, and the weight of destiny. A gripping sequel that left me breathless and eager for more.

The Emperor’s Soul

Shai, a master forger, faces her greatest challenge yet: recreating the soul of an emperor in just 100 days. Trapped in a palace of intrigue and deception, she must unravel the essence of a man she’s never met. As she delves deeper into the emperor’s past, Shai questions the nature of identity and the power of creation. Sanderson’s novella is a masterclass in worldbuilding, blending magic and philosophy in a tale that will leave you pondering long after the last page.

Elantris

Elantris, once a city of wonder and magic, now lies in ruins. Its inhabitants, once revered as gods, are now cursed, trapped in a living death. When Prince Raoden is struck by the dreaded transformation, he’s exiled to the city’s decaying streets. Meanwhile, his fiancée, Princess Sarene, arrives to find him dead. As political intrigue swirls and a mysterious priest plots destruction, Raoden and Sarene must uncover the secrets of Elantris to save their people. Sanderson weaves a tale of hope, love, and redemption in a world where magic has failed.

The Way of Kings

In “The Way of Kings,” Sanderson weaves an epic tale of a world ravaged by endless storms. Through the eyes of a disgraced soldier, a young scholar, and a reluctant assassin, we explore the mysteries of Roshar. Ancient magic resurfaces, forgotten histories unravel, and powerful forces clash. With vivid world-building and complex characters, this book grabbed me from the first page. It’s a masterful blend of fantasy and intrigue that left me eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Words of Radiance

Immerse yourself in the epic world of Roshar as Brandon Sanderson’s “Words of Radiance” continues the Stormlight Archive saga. Dalinar’s visions grow more urgent, Shallan’s past unravels, and Kaladin grapples with his newfound powers. As ancient secrets resurface and alliances shift, the fate of nations hangs in the balance. Sanderson’s masterful storytelling weaves intricate plots and unforgettable characters, leaving readers breathless with each turn of the page. A must-read for fantasy lovers seeking an escape into a richly imagined universe.

Towers of Midnight

As the Wheel of Time turns, the Last Battle looms. Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn, prepares for a showdown with the Dark One. Meanwhile, Perrin Aybara grapples with his wolfbrother nature, and Mat Cauthon’s band of heroes faces perilous challenges. Egwene al’Vere, now Amyrlin Seat, must unite a fractured White Tower. With each page, the stakes rise higher, and the fate of all hangs in the balance. Jordan and Sanderson’s masterful storytelling weaves a tapestry of magic, destiny, and human resilience that will leave you breathless.

Knife of Dreams

In this gripping installment of the Wheel of Time saga, Robert Jordan weaves a tapestry of intrigue and magic that will leave readers breathless. As the Last Battle looms, our heroes face their greatest challenges yet. Rand grapples with madness and power, while Mat’s roguish charm is tested in ways he never imagined. I found myself completely lost in the rich world-building, cheering for characters who’ve become like old friends. Jordan’s masterful storytelling had me staying up way too late, promising myself “just one more chapter.”

Lord of Chaos

Immerse yourself in the epic world of “The Wheel of Time” with Robert Jordan’s “Lord of Chaos.” As the Dragon Reborn grapples with his destiny, alliances shift and enemies lurk in the shadows. Jordan’s masterful storytelling weaves a tapestry of magic, politics, and prophecy that kept me up late into the night. The rich character development and intricate plot twists left me breathless, eagerly turning pages to uncover the next revelation.