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Best Sword and Sorcery Books

December 2024

Eric

In “Eric,” Terry Pratchett weaves a hilarious tale of misadventure through time and space. Young demonologist Eric summons a wizard, expecting ultimate power, but gets Rincewind instead. Together, they bumble through history, meeting figures like Aztec gods and the Trojan Horse. Pratchett’s wit shines as he pokes fun at human nature and mythology. It’s a romp that’ll leave you chuckling and pondering life’s absurdities.

The Last Hero

Cohen the Barbarian, ancient hero of the Discworld, decides to go out with a bang. Gathering his elderly comrades, he embarks on a final quest to return fire to the gods. Meanwhile, Leonard of Quirm invents a spacecraft, and the wizards of Unseen University realize they must stop Cohen to save the world. Pratchett’s wit shines as he weaves together heroic adventure, philosophical musings, and laugh-out-loud humor. A touching tribute to classic fantasy that will leave you both chuckling and contemplating life’s big questions.

Men at Arms

In this rollicking adventure, Pratchett thrusts us into the chaotic world of Ankh-Morpork’s City Watch. As a motley crew of misfits joins the force, including a dwarf, a troll, and a werewolf, they’re tasked with solving a perplexing murder. With his trademark wit and clever wordplay, Pratchett weaves a tale that’s both hilarious and thought-provoking. I found myself chuckling at the absurd situations and rooting for these unlikely heroes. It’s a brilliant satire on power, prejudice, and the nature of humanity.

The Colour of Magic

In a world balanced precariously on the back of a giant turtle, Terry Pratchett’s “The Colour of Magic” introduces us to Discworld. Follow the misadventures of Rincewind, a hapless wizard with a knack for survival, and Twoflower, a naive tourist with a magical luggage. Their journey is a hilarious romp through a fantastical realm, filled with dragons, heroes, and absurd magic. Pratchett’s wit shines through every page, making this a delightful escape from reality. I couldn’t put it down!

Mort

Death takes an apprentice in this wickedly funny Discworld novel. Young Mort, clumsy and naive, finds himself whisked away to become Death’s assistant. As he fumbles through his new duties, Mort discovers the complexities of life, love, and the delicate balance of the universe. Pratchett’s signature wit and clever wordplay shine as he explores mortality with a light touch, leaving readers chuckling and pondering in equal measure. A delightful romp through the afterlife that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.

Guards! Guards!

In the bustling city of Ankh-Morpork, where chaos reigns supreme, a secret brotherhood hatches a plan to summon a dragon and overthrow the Patrician. Enter the Night Watch, led by the unlikely hero Captain Vimes, a man more acquainted with the bottom of a bottle than heroics. With a ragtag team of misfits, including a talking dog and a dwarf with an identity crisis, Vimes must unravel the conspiracy before the city goes up in flames. Pratchett’s wit and satire shine in this hilarious romp through the Discworld.

A Memory of Light

In this epic finale to the Wheel of Time saga, the Last Battle looms. Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn, prepares to confront the Dark One in a struggle that will shape the fate of the world. As armies gather and prophecies unfold, old friends and new allies face unimaginable challenges. The pages crackle with tension, each character’s journey reaching its climax. I found myself holding my breath, savoring every twist and turn. Jordan’s rich world-building and Sanderson’s masterful storytelling blend seamlessly, delivering a satisfying conclusion to this beloved series.

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.

The Gathering Storm

As a lifelong Wheel of Time fan, I was both excited and apprehensive about “The Gathering Storm.” Could Sanderson do justice to Jordan’s legacy? I needn’t have worried. This book reignited my passion for the series, seamlessly blending Jordan’s intricate world-building with Sanderson’s knack for pacing. The character arcs, especially Rand’s descent into darkness, are masterfully handled. It’s a bittersweet read, knowing it’s partly Jordan’s final work, but also a triumphant continuation of his epic vision.

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.”