Codex Alera

While some of the books on this list offer a fresh take on the classics, Jim Butcher creates something entirely new. It began on a writer's workshop board during an argument, where he was challenged to write a book out of two central ideas – the lost roman legion and Pokémon. Despite its source material, the result is surprisingly unique. Butcher details a world in which aggressive races are complemented by elemental creatures called furies. Tavi from the rome-like Alera, and at fifteen years old he still can't furycraft. Butcher manages to flip expectations by creating a protagonist who doesn't come into great power. In fact, Tavi seems to be the only one without magic, and for once that makes things more interesting. As their next door neighbors prepare to declare war, Tavi has to rely on his wits to survive. As the series progresses, he learns his lack of magic doesn't make him worthless, facing emotional turmoil and coming out a strong, well-trained man. Read if you like: Unique settings, trope subversion, intelligent characters.

Books in Codex Alera Series (5)

Booklists having this book

Top 50 Best Coming of Age Fantasy Books

Coming of age stories are one of the oldest themes in fiction, providing a sense of progression and growth that can't be rivaled. This is a theme that's as old... Read more

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Furies Of Calderon

Most of theitems on this list made it thanks to their unique ideas. Instead, Codex Alera takes a system familiar to millions of children. While many authors claim inspiration from... Read more

Academ's Fury

Codex Alera

While some of the books on this list offer a fresh take on the classics, Jim Butcher creates something entirely new. It began on a writer's workshop board during an... Read more

Captain's Fury

Codex Alera

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The Dresden Files is pretty much THE detective urban fantasy series that's spawned a thousand lesser imitators but few peers. Kick-ass wizard detective. Check. A noir setting. Check. Non-stop action.... Read more

Codex Alera

Books in Codex Alera Series (5)

Booklists having this book

Other books by Butcher, Jim

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