12 books like The Legacy

By R. A. Salvatore,

Here are 12 books that The Legacy fans have personally recommended if you like The Legacy. Shepherd is a community of 11,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of A Game of Thrones

Lyndi Alexander Author Of Windmills

From my list on fantasy with female underdogs.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love to cheer for underdogs, and young women who are in this category have my special devotion. As a child of the 1960s, I remember a time when women didn’t have the same rights and opportunities as men, and we still seem to be fighting it today. Coming from a trauma-based childhood myself, I find myself comparing and contrasting coping mechanisms. Luckily, I haven’t found it necessary to kill anyone with dragon stone or jacked-up hornets so far. It delights me when these girls win, whether they game the system or fight their way with guns and knives.

Lyndi's book list on fantasy with female underdogs

Lyndi Alexander Why did Lyndi love this book?

Game of Thrones, right? This author has created so many characters that fit this category, and they all handle their situations in a different manner. I love the three major ones, Arya Stark, Sansa Stark, and Daenerys Targaryen, who could not be more different from each other. Sansa and Arya have grown up in privilege, but one scheme to be a pampered lady, and the other would be happy sleeping in the kennel with her dire wolf.

Daenerys has been hidden much of her childhood to protect her, and suddenly, she is thrown into the game with her arranged marriage to a wild horse lord, where she grows up very fast in order to survive. Sadly, as women in Westeros, they do not control their own fates, and following how their lives evolve and intertwine is fascinating.

By George R. R. Martin,

Why should I read it?

23 authors picked A Game of Thrones as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

HBO's hit series A GAME OF THRONES is based on George R R Martin's internationally bestselling series A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE, the greatest fantasy epic of the modern age. A GAME OF THRONES is the first volume in the series.

'Completely immersive' Guardian

'When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground'

Summers span decades. Winter can last a lifetime. And the struggle for the Iron Throne has begun.

From the fertile south, where heat breeds conspiracy, to the vast and savage eastern lands, all the way to the frozen…


Book cover of Dragons of Autumn Twilight

Kaeleb LD Appleby Author Of Chaos of Choice: Blood & Fog

From my list on epic fantasy you will get lost in.

Why am I passionate about this?

Epic fantasy is the genre that I probably enjoy the most. There’s just something special about starting out on an adventure, off along an unknown path, where you meet friends, companions, rivals, and enemies alike. The narrative often surrounds something world-changing, like evil trying to destroy the good in the world or some foul plot afoot that would see the ‘good guys’ lose. Despite the good vs evil appearance, there are always shades of gray that the heroes confront and need to navigate, and then the question always remains: did they make the right choice? 

Kaeleb's book list on epic fantasy you will get lost in

Kaeleb LD Appleby Why did Kaeleb love this book?

What captivates me about this series is its embrace of classic fantasy tropes. It encompasses every archetype: quests, battles, betrayal, and the eternal conflict between good and evil. Most compellingly, you forge a deep connection with the characters—you share their laughter and tears and are reluctant to see their journey end. 

The series excels in character development, turning the characters into beloved heroes and companions. The thrilling and fast-paced adventures ensure there's never a dull moment. I recommend this series to fantasy fans of all ages. Its accessible narrative style also makes it an ideal entry point for newcomers to the genre.

By Margaret Weis, Tracy Hickman,

Why should I read it?

8 authors picked Dragons of Autumn Twilight as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This Dungeons & Dragons-inspired fantasy adventure is the first installment in the beloved Dragonlance Chronicles, set in the magical world of Krynn

Once merely creatures of legend, the dragons have returned to Krynn. But with their arrival comes the departure of the old gods—and all healing magic. As war threatens to engulf the land, lifelong friends reunite for an adventure that will change their lives and shape their world forever . . . 
 
When Tanis, Sturm, Caramon, Raistlin, Flint, and Tasslehoff see a woman use a blue crystal staff to heal a villager, they wonder if it's a sign the…


Book cover of The Fellowship of the Ring

Danny Beeson Author Of The Origin of the Wolf

From my list on fantasy with unlikely but loveable heroes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an avid fantasy reader and writer. I have been writing for many years and love to craft detailed worlds and complex characters that surprise and delight readers. Stories are about challenges, overcoming the barriers that are put in front of us, and growing in the process. Characters do not have to be good or bad; they can be both, a mixture, just like real people. I strive to create characters that make people stop and think, make them question their assumptions, or relate to them in ways that they had not expected. Fantasy is about bringing real emotions to readers through an imaginary setting, and I love it.

Danny's book list on fantasy with unlikely but loveable heroes

Danny Beeson Why did Danny love this book?

Where to start? Lord of the Rings contains countless unlikely heroes. From Frodo and Sam, simple hobbits who have to undergo an impossible task to save the entire world, to Theoden or Faramir, the books are full of tales of valor and strength as the good of the world strives to overcome an impossible evil.

The books are written with the key theme that even ordinary people can do great good, and that is reflected in the Hobbits. They are an ordinary race, unimportant for most of history, but they possess the courage and the heart to save their world. I love these books above all else, and the characters are all inspiring and loveable.

By J.R.R. Tolkien,

Why should I read it?

24 authors picked The Fellowship of the Ring as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

This brand-new unabridged audio book of The Fellowship of the Ring, the first part of J. R. R. Tolkien's epic adventure, The Lord of the Rings, is read by the BAFTA award-winning actor, director and author, Andy Serkis.

In a sleepy village in the Shire, a young hobbit is entrusted with an immense task. He must make a perilous journey across Middle-earth to the Cracks of Doom, there to destroy the Ruling Ring of Power - the only thing that prevents the Dark Lord Sauron's evil dominion.

Thus begins J. R. R. Tolkien's classic tale of adventure, which continues in…


Book cover of The Last Wish: Introducing the Witcher

Kaeleb LD Appleby Author Of Chaos of Choice: Blood & Fog

From my list on epic fantasy you will get lost in.

Why am I passionate about this?

Epic fantasy is the genre that I probably enjoy the most. There’s just something special about starting out on an adventure, off along an unknown path, where you meet friends, companions, rivals, and enemies alike. The narrative often surrounds something world-changing, like evil trying to destroy the good in the world or some foul plot afoot that would see the ‘good guys’ lose. Despite the good vs evil appearance, there are always shades of gray that the heroes confront and need to navigate, and then the question always remains: did they make the right choice? 

Kaeleb's book list on epic fantasy you will get lost in

Kaeleb LD Appleby Why did Kaeleb love this book?

The Witcher series is another epic that once you start reading you won’t be able to stop. Although I think some things are lost in translation from Polish to English, it is still gripping and thoroughly enjoyable. Like all fantasy, Sapkowski has created a fascinating world and lore, including language and history.

But where this series excels is with the main character of Geralt—a surly warrior for hire whose emotions are destroyed during the process he was forced to undertake to become a Witcher. But as you get to know Geralt, you realize those emotions are certainly not destroyed, and the subtleties of the character interactions are engrossing.

By Andrzej Sapkowski, Danusia Stok (translator),

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked The Last Wish as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Book cover of The Crystal Shard

Z.S. Diamanti Author Of Stone & Sky

From my list on fantasy adventure filled with fun, magic, and hope.

Why am I passionate about this?

Creativity can lead to beautiful things. As a child I needed glasses and didn’t know it. Instead of reading books, my brother and I would tell stories to each other while we were supposed to be sleeping in our bunk beds at night. Eventually, I did get glasses and found that all the fantastical things that my mind came up with gave me quite the propensity toward fantasy. And once my eyes were set, it was game on! Over the years, I’ve authored numerous pieces in other genres, but my first books were always going to be fantasy. And that’s how the Stone & Sky series was born.

Z.S.'s book list on fantasy adventure filled with fun, magic, and hope

Z.S. Diamanti Why did Z.S. love this book?

I recommend The Crystal Shard to everyone I know, because it is an absolute classic of the fantasy genre. It’s the first book to introduce the legendary dark elf Drizzt Do’Urdan.

When I first read this book, it reignited my passion for fantasy adventures filled with elves, dwarves, halflings, and monsters. What we learn from Drizzt’s outsider experience is the hope that someday we all find our people. There are people out there that will be our friends, champions, and family.

No matter how odd we feel sometimes, we’re not meant to be alone, and there are people out there who can build us up if we’re willing to take the chance and step into the adventure of finding them.

By R. A. Salvatore,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Crystal Shard as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Drizzt Do’Urden finds new friends and foes in the windswept towns of Icewind Dale, also the setting of the Dungeons & Dragons adventure book Rime of the Frostmaiden.

With his days in the Underdark far behind him, drow ranger Drizzt Do’Urden sets down roots in the windswept Ten-Towns of Icewind Dale. A cold and unforgiving place, Ten-Towns sits on the brink of a catastrophic war, threatened by the barbarian tribes of the north.

It’s in the midst of battle that a young barbarian named Wulfgar is captured and made the ward of Bruenor, a grizzled dwarf leader and a companion…


Book cover of Homeland

J. K. Swift Author Of Acre

From my list on with realistic fight scenes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love a good fight scene! It doesn’t need to be long and gruesome, but it must be visceral and make me nervous for those involved. Don’t get me wrong, I also love a good first-kiss scene but unfortunately, my past has made me more adept at recognizing and writing one over the other. I started training in martial arts at the age of nine and continued for thirty years. I don’t train much these days but I took up bowmaking a few years back and now spend a lot of time carving English longbows and First Nations’ bows. I recently also took up Chinese archery.

J. K.'s book list on with realistic fight scenes

J. K. Swift Why did J. K. love this book?

There are so many good things to say about the Dark Elf Trilogy but the reason I read it was because my brother gave it to me and said, “You should read this. It’s got lots of good fighting.” The way Salvatore wrote his fights completely engrossed me. And not just me. Heavy readers of fantasy (I’m a lightweight as I split my time between fantasy and historical fiction) say he is one of the best. Sure the fight scenes were fantastical, but Salvatore has a way of grounding them in reality with little things (like Drizzt’s double downward block with his scimitars) that everyone can imagine. He describes movement like someone who has had some training himself, or perhaps he just had a misspent youth that resulted in some practical experience! 

By R. A. Salvatore,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Homeland as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Strange and exotic Menzoberranzan is the vast city of the Drow. This is a world of dark elves, where families battle families and fantastic monsters rise up from the lightless depths. From the author of the "Icewind Dale Trilogy".


Book cover of The Icewind Dale Trilogy: Collector's Edition

Kaeleb LD Appleby Author Of The Legacy of the Spirit Rings

From my list on fantasy adventures fun lovable characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love fantasy adventures. Always have. I think The Hobbit was one of the very first books I ever read from start to finish. The way fun-filled adventures draw you in with intricate worlds that ignite the imagination and keep you sucked in with amazing characters and story is comparable to nothing else. That feeling of emptiness after reading a great story is indescribable and something I have always tried to create with my own books.

Kaeleb's book list on fantasy adventures fun lovable characters

Kaeleb LD Appleby Why did Kaeleb love this book?

I enjoy everything about this series, from the characters to the setting, the story, and even the bad guys. This book is a bit more of a lighthearted adventure than Salvatore’s other works, and I think that’s why I like it the most. You have to be in the mood for heavy stuff. 

D&D is such a great setting with rich lore, and Drizzt has to be one of the most iconic fantasy characters ever. A lot happens in this series, and I enjoyed every bit of it. Maybe a little predictable or ‘gamey’ in some instances, but I know what I’m getting into and thoroughly enjoy it.

By R. A. Salvatore,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Icewind Dale Trilogy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Icewind Dale. Windswept passes and forbidding glaciers stand at the top of the world. Below them, in the cold valleys, an evil force broods: the magic of Crenshinibon, the crystal shard.

Now dwarf, barbarian, and drow elf join to battle this evil. Tempered in the furnace of struggle, they form an unbreakable friendship.

A legend is born.

For the first time in one volume, here is New York Times bestselling author R.A. Salvatore's adventure that introduced Drizzt Do'Urden, the heroic dark elf, one of the most beloved characters in fantasy literature.


Book cover of The Dark Elf Trilogy

Blake Harper Author Of The Order of Saint Michael

From my list on distinct perspectives on fantasy adventures.

Why am I passionate about this?

Fantasy stories were introduced to me by my father in early childhood. It was one way he and I connected, and I held it close to my heart. I’ve always wanted to write, feeling fascinated with creating a world entirely your own. I remember my first short story/book that I wrote when I was eight years old; it was about a rabbit who got lost. It probably wasn’t my best work, but we all need to start somewhere. Although I’ve read many fantasy stories, I’ve always thought it important to find your own voice when writing. My favorite authors each had their own style. I hope you find this list of recommendations worthwhile. Happy reading!

Blake's book list on distinct perspectives on fantasy adventures

Blake Harper Why did Blake love this book?

Drizzt Do’urden is arguably one of the most beloved characters ever to be created in a fantasy world. He is a dark elf of conviction, not allowing the circumstances of his birth to dictate how he lives his life. He understands the evil nature of his kin and chooses a different path, never giving up through his journeys. Beautifully, he meets people along the way that don’t judge him based on his appearance, but rather the contents of his character. Such a thing creates a bond between Drizzt and his friends that lasts their entire lives.

By R. A. Salvatore,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Dark Elf Trilogy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This three-book set is perfect for collectors and an ideal gift for readers unfamiliar with the Forgotten Realms setting. The Dark Elf Trilogy--Homeland, Exile, and Sojourn--are enclosed in a hard-sided slipcover case featuring the cover art from the series.


Book cover of The Orc King

Aiden L. Turner Author Of The Banner of the Broken Orc: The Call of the Darkness Saga Book One

From my list on featuring orcs.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve loved the fantasy genre for as long as I can remember. From playing Warhammer with my father as a child to first reading The Lord of the Rings, The Magician, and countless other unforgettable novels, I was hooked. The Orc was always my favorite bad guy, with their incredible strength and bloodlust. I have spent many a long hour trying to put myself in the mindset of a being so dark, so brutal, and so lovable. Reading the books on this list, and many more, have helped me develop a foundation in the Orc race that almost makes them real.

Aiden's book list on featuring orcs

Aiden L. Turner Why did Aiden love this book?

For me, this book really brought a deep lore and background to the Orc race. With intrigue and plot aplenty, this story follows an Orc attempting to bring about a strong Orc kingdom with cities and trade, allies, and stability. Not every Orc is ready or wants this change and there is certainly a challenge to bringing about the kingdom. This gives a great depth to the Orc race and is one of my favorites from a great author.

By R. A. Salvatore,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Orc King as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The war against the orcs is far from over in this opening installment of a bold new trilogy in the Legend of Drizzt series

The end of winter is near, and it seems the uneasy peace between the dwarves of Mithral Hall and the orcs of the newly established Kingdom of Many-Arrows will not last long. The orc tribes united under Obould are splintering, with some seeking to establish an alliance with a clan of half ogres-half orcs. Drizzt, too, feels himself torn apart, unsure which of the Companions needs him most: As Catti-brie recovers from a serious injury, Wulfgar…


Book cover of High Moor

Austin Crawley Author Of A Halloween Tale

From my list on great horror and dark fantasy off the beaten track.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've been reading Horror and Dark Fantasy books since I was twelve and prefer this genre over any other. The depths of the human psyche explored in these genres expose the core of storytelling itself and the themes that make the best stories really come alive!

Austin's book list on great horror and dark fantasy off the beaten track

Austin Crawley Why did Austin love this book?

This is a werewolf story with teeth.

For people who like traditional scary werewolves and a well written, believable community structure and strong plot and characters, this one is top of the class. There are characters to love, characters to hate and no punches pulled on who might get slaughtered.

The best part is that you still want to see the werewolves win.

By Graeme Reynolds,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked High Moor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

When John Simpson hears of a bizarre animal attack in his old hometown of High Moor, it stirs memories of a long-forgotten horror. John knows the truth. A werewolf stalks the town once more, and on the night of the next full moon, the killing will begin again. He should know. He survived a werewolf attack in 1986, during the worst year of his life.


However, the consequences of his actions, the reappearance of an old flame and a dying man who will save or damn him are the least of his problems. The night of the full moon is…


5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in elves, wizards, and orcs?

Elves 68 books
Wizards 98 books
Orcs 21 books