10 books for fans of Graceling
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Tress of the Emerald Sea
Hoid's Travails • Book 1
by Brandon Sanderson, Howard Lyon
Why this book?
Both audiobooks deliver immersive fantasy worlds with capable, independent protagonists navigating danger and discovery, while their comparable runtimes provide similarly rich, unrushed storytelling that rewards deep listening. Sanderson's whimsical yet earnest tone complements the same blend of adventure and character growth that makes Graceling compelling, with Michael Kramer's narration matching Xanthe Elbrick's skill at bringing protagonists to vivid life.
★ 4.32 Goodreads (297.2K ratings) - 2
The Hobbit
Middle-earth • Book 1
by J.R.R. Tolkien, Douglas A. Anderson, Michael Hague, Jemima Catlin
More about this pick
Before the epic Lord of the Rings trilogy, Tolkien wrote this intimate tale of Bilbo Baggins learning that even the smallest person can change the course of history.
★ 4.30 Goodreads (4.5M ratings) - 3
Shadows of Self
Mistborn, Era 2: Wax & Wayne • Book 2
Why this book?
Sanderson's intricate magic system and exploration of identity and power mirror Graceling's examination of exceptional abilities and their moral weight, while Michael Kramer's measured narration provides the same immersive, character-driven listening experience that Elbrick brings to Cashore's world.
★ 4.26 Goodreads (211.7K ratings) - 4
The Alloy of Law
Mistborn, Era 2: Wax & Wayne • Book 1
Why this book?
Both audiobooks deliver richly detailed fantasy worlds with capable protagonists navigating complex moral landscapes, while Michael Kramer's measured narration complements the intricate magic systems just as Xanthe Elbrick's engaging performance enhanced Graceling's character-driven narrative. The Alloy of Law maintains that same balance of action and character development across a similarly immersive 11-hour listening experience.
★ 4.19 Goodreads (294.2K ratings) - 5
Sabriel
Abhorsen/The Old Kingdom • Book 1
by Garth Nix
Why this book?
Both audiobooks deliver immersive fantasy worlds with strong, capable heroines navigating dark magic and moral complexity, while Tim Curry's commanding narration matches Xanthe Elbrick's skill in bringing richly layered characters to life. The similar runtime and pacing create that same engrossing listening experience, though Sabriel ventures into darker, more gothic territory that will appeal to listeners ready to deepen their fantasy investment.
★ 4.16 Goodreads (219.2K ratings) - 6
His Majesty's Dragon
Temeraire • Book 1
by Naomi Novik
Why this book?
Both audiobooks deliver immersive fantasy worlds with capable protagonists navigating complex political landscapes, enhanced by narrators who bring vivid character depth to their performances. His Majesty's Dragon shares Graceling's blend of action and character development, though it trades intimate fantasy adventure for an epic alternate-history setting with similarly engaging world-building.
★ 4.07 Goodreads (112.8K ratings) - 7
The Golden Compass
His Dark Materials • Book 1
by Philip Pullman
Why this book?
Both audiobooks feature richly imagined fantasy worlds with fierce, intelligent protagonists who challenge authority and uncover dangerous secrets, all delivered through immersive narration that brings their expansive worlds to vivid life. Ruth Wilson's performance captures the same sense of wonder and peril found in Elbrick's narration, making the comparable runtime perfect for listeners seeking another epic adventure with complex moral questions at its heart.
★ 4.03 Goodreads (1.6M ratings) - 8
A Darker Shade of Magic
Shades of Magic • Book 1
by V.E. Schwab, Victoria Schwab
More about this pick
Kell is one of the last magicians who can travel between parallel Londons—until he smuggles a forbidden artifact that could destroy all four worlds.
★ 4.03 Goodreads (435.0K ratings) - 9
Words of Radiance
The Stormlight Archive • Book 2
More about this pick
Three protagonists navigate political intrigue and magical awakening as an ancient enemy stirs on storm-ravaged Roshar. Sanderson expands his world-building while deepening character development across 1,000 pages.
★ 4.76 Goodreads (498.0K ratings) - 10
Kingdom of Ash
Throne of Glass • Book 7
More about this pick
The Throne of Glass saga concludes with Aelin imprisoned and tortured while her fractured army faces impossible odds in the ultimate battle for Erilea's survival.
★ 4.71 Goodreads (1.1M ratings)