If you’re a fan of Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas, you’re likely drawn to the gripping mix of fantasy, adventure, and a strong, complex heroine. Celaena Sardothien, the protagonist of Throne of Glass, is a fierce assassin with a turbulent past, facing trials that test her strength, loyalty, and self-worth. Whether it’s the rich world-building, political intrigue, or the romance that makes your heart race, Throne of Glass has it all. But what happens when you finish the series and are left craving something similar? The good news is that there are plenty of books out there that can scratch that same fantasy itch.
In this post, we’ll explore a collection of books that are perfect for fans of Throne of Glass. From strong female leads to intense action-packed plots, these novels share the same pulse-pounding energy that Throne of Glass delivers.
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
As one of Maas’ most popular series, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) is often the first recommendation for fans of Throne of Glass. While it is set in a different world—one that blends elements of high fantasy, fae mythology, and romance—ACOTAR offers many similarities to Throne of Glass, especially in its complex heroine, Feyre Archeron.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
Both ACOTAR and Throne of Glass feature a female protagonist who is forced to confront a past filled with pain and hardship. Feyre, much like Celaena, begins as an ordinary young woman, only to find herself swept up into a world of politics, magic, and romance. Both series also dive deep into themes of trauma, healing, and the discovery of self-worth.
Why You’ll Love It:
Fans of Throne of Glass will appreciate the strong character development in ACOTAR, as well as the intriguing love interests, epic battles, and magical creatures. Plus, Maas’ signature writing style keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
2. The Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
In The Red Queen, Mare Barrow is a common girl living in a world divided by blood—those with red blood serve the Silver-blooded elite who wield powerful, magical abilities. When Mare accidentally discovers her own magical powers, she is thrust into a dangerous game of political intrigue, betrayal, and survival.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
Both books center on strong, resourceful female protagonists who are thrust into power struggles far beyond their control. Like Celaena, Mare must navigate a world full of deception, power plays, and the constant threat of violence. Both heroines also struggle with their own identities, torn between duty and the desire for freedom.
Why You’ll Love It:
The political dynamics and class struggle in The Red Queen are captivating, and Mare’s journey from a powerless commoner to a key player in a high-stakes game of survival will keep you on the edge of your seat. The world-building is also rich and immersive, with Aveyard crafting a world full of intrigue and danger.
3. The Wrath & the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh
This lush and romantic reimagining of One Thousand and One Nights follows Shahrzad, a young woman who volunteers to marry the cruel Caliph of Khorasan, hoping to seek vengeance for her best friend’s death. As she spends more time with the caliph, she discovers that not everything is as it seems, and her feelings for him begin to change.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
The Wrath & the Dawn shares many of the elements that Throne of Glass fans enjoy: strong, independent female protagonists, slow-burning romance, and a world filled with intrigue and danger. Shahrzad’s fierce determination and complex relationship with the caliph mirror Celaena’s character arc in Throne of Glass, especially as she learns to trust and find strength in others.
Why You’ll Love It:
For those who enjoy romance with a side of adventure, The Wrath & the Dawn delivers a beautifully written story. The rich Middle Eastern-inspired setting and strong themes of revenge, love, and redemption will appeal to readers who love Maas’ writing style and character-driven plots.
4. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Graceling is set in a world where certain people are born with “graces” or special abilities. Katsa, the protagonist, is graced with the ability to kill anyone with her bare hands. Despite her brutal power, Katsa is a reluctant weapon of the king, and her journey of self-discovery and rebellion mirrors some of the core themes found in Throne of Glass.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
Like Celaena, Katsa is a powerful and capable woman who feels trapped by her circumstances. Both books feature heroines with deadly abilities who must navigate complex political landscapes while questioning their roles in the world around them. The emphasis on strength, survival, and inner turmoil is a common thread that ties these two stories together.
Why You’ll Love It:
If you’re a fan of Throne of Glass’s fierce, strong-willed protagonists, Katsa will resonate with you. Her internal struggles, along with the adventure-filled plot, make Graceling a compelling read. The romantic subplot is also a key draw for fans of Throne of Glass.
5. Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
Serpent & Dove is the first book in a series that blends witchcraft, romance, and action. The story follows Lou, a witch who has been in hiding for years, and Reid, a witch hunter who swears to eliminate magic. Their worlds collide when they are forced into an arranged marriage, and they must learn to trust each other to survive the dangerous forces threatening them.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
Like Throne of Glass, Serpent & Dove features a complex female protagonist and a slow-burn romance between two characters who are initially at odds with one another. Both books also explore themes of betrayal, redemption, and power. Additionally, both stories are set in worlds where magic plays a central role, and the heroine must learn to harness her abilities.
Why You’ll Love It:
If you’re a fan of a romantic fantasy with a touch of danger and a strong, independent heroine, Serpent & Dove is sure to captivate you. The chemistry between Lou and Reid is palpable, and the world-building offers a fresh take on witches and magic that will appeal to fans of Throne of Glass.
6. The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
The Bone Season follows Paige Mahoney, a dreamwalker in a world where clairvoyants are hunted by the government. When Paige is captured and taken to a dystopian society, she must navigate her newfound power and the complicated world of spirit creatures.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
Like Celaena, Paige is a skilled and independent young woman who is forced to fight for survival in a world that is dangerous and full of political tension. The use of supernatural powers, strong world-building, and a heroine who must uncover hidden truths about herself make The Bone Season a compelling choice for fans of Throne of Glass.
Why You’ll Love It:
The world of The Bone Season is rich and immersive, and Paige’s journey is filled with suspense, mystery, and action. For fans of Throne of Glass’s intricate world-building and strong female leads, The Bone Season offers an exciting blend of fantasy, dystopia, and thrilling adventure.
7. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Shadow and Bone is the first book in the Grishaverse series and introduces readers to Alina Starkov, a young woman who discovers that she has the power to summon light, a rare and powerful ability in her world. As she enters the world of the Grisha, magical soldiers who serve the Darkling, she finds herself torn between loyalty, power, and love.
Similarities to Throne of Glass:
Both Shadow and Bone and Throne of Glass feature heroines with hidden powers who must navigate complex, high-stakes environments. Like Celaena, Alina is a character who struggles with her identity and power while also trying to protect those she loves. The romance and political intrigue will also appeal to fans of Maas’ work.
Why You’ll Love It:
For fans of Throne of Glass, Shadow and Bone offers a compelling mix of magic, romance, and self-discovery. The series is set in a dark, atmospheric world where light and shadow, good and evil, collide in thrilling ways.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for books that offer the same level of intrigue, adventure, and powerful female leads as Throne of Glass, these seven novels will certainly satisfy your craving. Whether you’re drawn to complex political drama, intense romance, or strong heroines facing their darkest fears, each of these books brings something special to the table. Dive into their worlds, and you’ll soon find yourself captivated by new characters, settings, and stories that will stay with you long after the final page.
