If you like "The Study" by Maria V. Snyder, then you might enjoy...

Young Fitz is born on the wrong side of the sheets, he is the bastard son of Prince Chivalry.

As a young child, Fitz is raised as a stableboy in the shadow of the royal court. He is raised by his father's stableman, Burrich, the stablemaster at Buckkeep.

Fitz is treated as an outcast by all the nobles except by King Shrewd, who has him secretly tutored to become an assassin.

In Fitz's blood runs the magic called Skill, and the more animalistic, and by most, the abhorred art known as the Wit.

Fitz is growing to manhood, and soon he will face his first dangerous, soul-crushing mission as an assassin to the crown.

This is the first book in The Farseer trilogy, and it is very good. This series is among the books that are a must-read for any fan of fantasy books.

In a world where the sun is dying, and the ice is encroaching, one girl named Nona is gifted with a rare talent. Being accused of murder, she finds herself taken to the Convent of Sweet Mercy where girls are raised to become lethal killers.

In this convent, every child shows a spark of potential that can be nurtured, however, Nona's abilities surpass what is considered normal. Her wild spirit and peculiar origins have set her apart and drawn her into great danger.

Amid the harsh lessons of the convent, Nona embarks on a journey to uncover her past and grapple with her unique powers, questioning the purpose of her presence at the Convent of Sweet Mercy.

"Red Sister" by Mark Lawrence integrates fantasy and action spectacularly. The intricate world-building brings the reader into a chilling environment where everything is on the brink of devastation.

The protagonist, Nona, is an engaging character bursting with potential and mystery. Here growth and maturity throughout the novel is both riveting and relatable.

On the other hand, the novel's pacing can be slow at times, with a heavy focus on training and lessons, but the climactic pay-off is immense and well worth the wait.

All in all, despite some minor pacing issues, "Red Sister" is a brilliantly executed piece of fantasy literature that will leave readers yearning for more.

In Megan Whalen Turner's "The Thief," we follow a young thief called Gen, who claims he can steal anything. After being lifted from prison by a king's magus with the promise of avoiding life in prison, he is assigned the task of stealing an impossible object: a piece of a creation myth held by gods. Thrown into an arduous journey filled with danger, myth, and uncanny occurrences, Gen navigates treacherous terrains to fulfill his mission, only to discover a haunting and dangerous secret. His journey unveils not only the truths behind the myth but also his own surprising abilities.

This novel "The Thief" by Megan Whalen Turner is a fantasy gem that seamlessly weaves together elements of adventure, Greek mythology, and suspense. Turner's protagonist, Gen, is an enigmatic character -challenged, defiant, and yet endearingly flawed. The narrative, embroiled in intense political intrigue and interspersed with intricate character relationships, remains gripping throughout. The author's narrative style is clever and subtle, gradually revealing the layers of the plot, ultimately leading to a twist that demonstrates Turner’s sheer genius in storytelling. While the pacing can be slow at times, the overall journey is highly rewarding, making "The Thief" an unforgettable treasure in the genre of young adult fantasy.

Trained by the god of death himself, Ismae Rienne is saved from her arranged marriage and sent to the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old.

There, she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny.

She is trained as an assassin and to serve the god of Death, just to find that there's more to it than just killing. She's also drawn into the complex politics of the court and unexpectedly falls in love.

In "Grave Mercy" by Robin LaFevers, the author skillfully combines history, mythology, and romance into an exceptional story.

The protagonist, Ismae, is well-drawn and compelling, with a convincing arc from a terrified girl to a confident woman able to make her own choices. The supportive cast is similarly well-developed, with each character contributing to the overall plot in meaningful ways.

LaFevers expertly weaves political intrigue with a heartrending love story that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Highly recommended!

An unexpected queen named Kelsea Raleigh is ushered to the throne under tormenting circumstances after her mother's death. In a post-utopian world living in New Europe, Kelsea has to manage the kingdom named Tearling, marred by dark magic and a grim society that trades people as slaves. She's backed by the Lazarus, a loyal enigmatic figure, and she gets a magical sapphire necklace that holds strange powers. Battling her insecurities, she must find courage within herself to be a leader her land needs while maneuvering herself amid courtesies, injustices, and blurring lines between friends and foes.

The Queen of the Tearling is an impressive debut novel from Erika Johansen that brings a fresh voice to the fantasy genre. Its plot-oriented narrative and Kelsea's empowering journey are the novel's highlights. However, the book, at times, can get dense with its world-building details and may require patience for those who prefer fast-paced narratives. Despite this, Johansen's prowess in sketching a thick ambiance and complex characters is commendable. It is a compelling read for those who enjoy strong female leads and slow-building plots soaked with intrigue.

A young and overlooked princess, Elisa, is suddenly thrust into the center of a political crisis. Known to bear the Godstone, a supposed sign of the chosen one, she is married off to a king in a foreign land for a political alliance.

In her new kingdom, Elisa realizes that the war-ridden potential of her homeland is more precarious than she expected. Many believe that she possesses some hidden power due to her Godstone which she still struggles to understand, let alone control.

Finding herself kidnapped by rebels, she is faced with the realities of war and the burdens of her perceived destiny. Elisa must navigate these tumultuous ties, grapple with her own self-doubts, and muster the strength to lead with bravery and intellect.

With its fascinating world-building and dynamic characters, "The Girl of Fire and Thorns" by Rae Carson sweeps readers into a complex political landscape full of danger, intrigue, and magical happenings.

Ellisa is an unforgettable protagonist, relatable in her insecurities, admirable in her growth, and inspiring in her strength. Watching her develop from a sheltered and self-doubting princess into a tactical and courageous leader is one of the highlights of the novel.

Overall, "The Girl of Fire and Thorns" is a thought-provoking read that deftly explores themes of power, identity, and destiny against a background of high-stakes political upheaval and war. It's a must-read for fans of fantasy!

Katsa lives in a world where Gracelings, individuals with special talents, are identified by their unique eyes and feared by ordinary folk. Katsa has been graced with the skill to kill and has since been exploited as her uncle, the king's, thug.

While on a secret mission, she meets Po, a prince from a neighbouring kingdom with hidden motives. They build an unusual friendship while unraveling the dark secrets behind a cunning plot against the kingdoms.

Their journey leads Katsa to discover her real Grace, a secret power she didn't know she possessed.

"Graceling" by Kristin Cashore is a fantasy novel that truly immerses the reader into a world of extraordinary powers, fighting for justice, and self-discovery.

With a strong, independent female lead and an intriguing plot, the book offers a refreshing take on the traditional fantasy genre. The character development, particularly of Katsa, is remarkable and the love story is expressed with subtlety and depth.

Some readers might find the pacing a bit slow, but overall, "Graceling" is a well-written, deeply engaging book with a unique concept. For fans of the fantasy genre seeking strong characters and original concepts, this book is a must-read.

Kingkiller Chronicle is a first-person story of a young man who grows to be the most notorious magician his world has ever seen.

From his childhood in a troupe of traveling players, and to his years spent as an orphan suer rat in a crime-ridden city. Then to his daring yet successful gamble to enter a legendary school of magic. And then how he learns magic and grows to become the notorious magician he once will become.

This book starts out a little slow, but it becomes one of the better fantasy books there is.

Kingkiller Chronicle is a must-read for any fantasy book lover.

Sadly it looks like Rothfuss is starting to compete with George RR Martin on who is the slowest.

Centred around Kell, a man with the rare ability to travel between parallel Londons, the narrative takes on an epic adventure of magic and suspense. Kell, originally from Red London where magic is revered, gets embroiled in dangerous intrigues when he illegally smuggles an artifact from Black London- a place supposed to be sealed for its dangerous magic. His path crosses with Delilah Bard, a thief with aspirations of her own. Inevitably, the nefarious plans of others and their own destinies are entwined as they navigate a perilous journey filled with treachery and powerful magic.

"A Darker Shade of Magic" by V.E. Schwab delivers an enthralling blend of fantasy and adventure.

With an intricate and imaginative plot, the book introduces an exciting multi-dimensional world, each with its own unique London. The capricious interplay between Kell and Delilah gives life to the story and their considerably flawed but endearing characters captivate readers. The magic system, while inventive and captivating, could use further layers of intricacy.

In conclusion, this novel stands out as an enthusing and engaging read and is a must-read for fans of fantasy world-building and dramatic adventures.

In "The Demon King", reformed thief Han Alister will do almost anything to eke out a living for his family. His life takes a turn when he takes possession of an amulet that previously belonged to the Demon King, not knowing it has the power to unravel the entire kingdom.

Meanwhile, the earnest Princess Raisa, tired of courtly life, longs for freedom and adventure. She wishes to become more than a pretty face to be used in political games.

Their paths cross and together, they must navigate the treacherous political landscape and prevent an inevitable war, all the while dealing with their growing feelings for one another.

"The Demon King" is a page-turner, filled with complex characters, intricate politics, and a well-crafted world that pulls you in. Chima brilliantly weaves together the storylines of Han Alister and Princess Raisa, both nuanced characters with compelling backstories.

The story balances political intrigue, magic, and interpersonal drama. Chima's writing is fluid and the narrative captivating.

While some fantasy tropes are employed, they are done so in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The plot is rich with surprises, ensuring readers will be eager to find out what happens next.

Sonea is a young slum rat that suddenly discovers that she has magical potential. She discovered it when she throws a stone through a magical barrier and accidentally hits a magician shielded behind it. Only magic could get through that shield.

The magicians want her to join their guild, but Sonea has an understandable but unnecessary distrust of the magicians. Soo she ends up running away from them.

The magicians must find her before her uncontrolled and untrained powers kill her and possibly destroys the city.

This is not an easy task. Sonea knows the slums and its hidden sewers like only a slum child can.

The guild desperately tries to hunt her down to attempt to convince her to join them and start in their school.

I liked this book quite well, but I read it back in my earlier days when I was new to fantasy books.

The story in The Magicians' Guild is kind of unoriginal and follows standard fantasy structure. But if you are kind of new to fantasy books or like me, liking these kinds of stories, then it should be a good read.

Azoth started as a guild rat living in the slum. To survive this brutal life he learned to judge people quickly and to take calculated risks.

Risks like selling his soul to the devil,Durzo Blint, the most accomplished assassin there is. Azoth did this in order to protect his friends Jaral and Doll-girl.

To be accepted by Durzo Blint, Azoth had to turn his back on his old life and embrace a new identity and name.

Now known as Kylar Stern, Azoth must learn to navigate the assassins' world of dangerous politics and strange magics.

The Way of Shadows is the first book in the Night Angel Trilogy. Its an excellent series.

The hours just fly by as we live the life of Kylar Stern.

Panem is a nation consisting of a shining Capitol for the wealthy surrounded by twelve outlying poorer districts.

Long ago a rebellion led by a 13th district against the Capitol resulted in its destruction. As part of the surrender terms, each of the twelve surviving districts agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called,"The Hunger Games".

"The Hunger Games" is a fight to the death on live TV. Only one survives. 

Katniss Everdeen, a sixteen-year-old girl from district twelve, ends up as the female tribute from her district. She and her male counterpart Peeta, are pitted against bigger and stronger representatives, some of whom have trained for this their whole lives.

This is the first book in The Hunger Games trilogy. These books are worth reading, not among the best, but still worth the time if you like young adult dystopian books.

Every year the Capitol of the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl as Tributes to compete in the Hunger Games. A game where they have to fight each other in aBattle Royale for survival, only one of the 24 contestants will survive.

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen volunteers in her younger sister's place and must fight against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared their entire lives.

The Hunger Games is an ok movie, especially if you like post-apocalyptic dystopian stories.

It is probably better for a teenage audience, but it is still worth watching. 

"The Hunger Games" is a mature dystopian film that features a strong and resourceful female lead, Katniss Everdeen, who must navigate a deadly competition while dealing with political intrigue and survival. Similar to Maria V. Snyder's books, it explores themes of power, rebellion, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Golden Compass is a captivating, fantasy adventure film based on Philip Pullman's Northern Lights. The story follows a young, fearless girl named Lyra Belacqua who lives in a parallel universe where a person's soul takes on the form of a 'daemon' animal that accompanies them.

Thrown in the middle of a cosmic war over a mysterious and sought-after substance known as 'Dust', Lyra embarks on an epic journey. Using a truth-divining instrument, the golden compass, as a guide, she navigates treacherous lands, battles formidable enemies and uncovers deeply entrenched conspiracies.

The Golden Compass does a commendable job in translating Philip Pullman's complex universe onto the screen. The movie stunningly captures the magic and uncanny elements of the novel, resulting in a fantastic cinematic experience. The visuals are spellbinding, making the parallel universe more realistic and immersive.

The cast does a fantastic job. Dakota Blue Richards shines as the movie's young protagonist Lyra, and Nicole Kidman creates a chillingly formidable antagonist. However, some might argue that the film falls short of fully developing the nuances of the novel's social and philosophical commentary, leaving it a somewhat diluted adaptation.

However, as an entertaining and visually captivating fantasy journey, The Golden Compass certainly delivers.

This adaptation of Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" series offers a mature and thought-provoking fantasy world with complex characters and intricate themes. It explores the idea of parallel universes, authoritarian control, and the quest for truth, making it a suitable choice for a mature audience.

Living in total seclusion in the remote woods of Eastern Europe, Hanna, a 16-year-old girl has spent her entire young life training to fight those who hunt her and her mercenary father, Erik Heller. Her survivalist skills are finally tested when she and Erik are separated upon their discovery by a rogue CIA operative, Marissa Wiegler and her team.

Hanna has no choice, she embarks on a mission across Europe, intent on reuniting with her father and evading -- and ultimately destroying -- the dangerous agents who target them.

Hanna's intense training and keen instincts are of significant advantage to her, but her journey leads her to confront startling revelations about her existence causing her to question her life, her humanity, and her future.

"Hanna" is an genre-smashing thriller, showcasing the brilliant performance of young Saoirse Ronan.

This film combines elements of dark fairy tales, stylish action sequences and coming-of-age drama, resulting in a cinematic experience that strikes a fine balance between style and substance.

With its pulsating soundtrack, stunning cinematography and tight pacing, "Hanna" is widely appealing to audiences seeking an adrenaline rush with a touch of emotional depth and mystery.

Naofumi Iwatani is an otaku from Japan. He and three other Japanese people are summoned to another world to become The Four Cardinal Heroes.

The Four Cardinal Heroes are respectively given a sword, spear, bow, and shield. They are each called the Sword Hero, the Spear Hero, the Bow Hero, and lastly the Shield Hero.

Their task is to vanquish Waves of monsters. The Waves are monsters summoned from another plane to attack and destroy everything. They are summoned in regular waves.

Naofumi is cursed with the fate of becoming the Shield Hero. 

Armed with only a measly shield, Naofumi is belittled and ridiculed by his fellow heroes and the kingdom's people due to his weak offensive capabilities. His lackluster personality does also not help his case.

They were summoned by the kingdom of Melromarc. The kingdom provides the heroes with some recourses and comrades to train with to prepare for the Waves. 

The only person willing to help Naofumi, the Shield Hero, is Malty Melromarc, a princess of the kingdom. However, she soon betrays him by stealing his resources and falsy causing him of taking advantage of her.

This causes Naofumi to be discriminated against and hated by the people of Melromarc for something he didn't do.

Full of hurt and mistrust Naofumi begins his journey of strengthening himself. He buys the demi-human Raphtalia, a slave on the verge of death. He wants her to accompany him on his travels.

Raphtaliathe is the sword to Naofumis shield.

The Rising of the Shield Hero is a good anime. It's interesting to watch the main character dealing with having everyone against him and growing stronger.

It has an interesting gamelike progression and a decent story and characters.

This anime is not a masterpiece, it's not among the best. It's only recommended if you like anime or like these kinds of Isekai/LitRPG kind of stories.

In a world that humans must share with Yoma, demonic predators who feast on human intestines, we follow a young boy, Raki, who has lost everything to the Yomas. He joins up with Clare, a slightly older girl, and a Claymore.

Claymores are half human and half Yoma.

Claymoresare detested by most humans, but they are necessary. They are the only force that stands between them and getting their intestines eaten.

Clare and Raki travel together around on missions set by the Claymore leaders to take care of Yoma infestations. Clare is considered an outcast by her own people for picking up a young boy and for almost losing herself to her Youma side.

Claymore is a really good anime.

Its a brutal story about revenge, growing stronger and mentoring others. It has characters that grow and change, and best of all, it does not have battles that drag on for ages like so many shonen based anime does. 

Claymore might also be interesting for people that usually do not watch anime, especially if you like strong female characters.

Police detective Josephus Miller is a cynical belter. Belter's are people born and risen in the asteroid belt. His newest assignment is to find Julie Mao, a missing young rich girl turned political activist.

At the same time, James Holden, the first officer of an ice freighter, is witness to an unprovoked attack. An attack by a craft believed to be from Mars (MCRN Federation). News of the attack spreads throughout Earth, Mars and The Belt.

The already tenuous relationship between them is on the brink of no return.

Chrisjen Avasarala is a high ranking United Nations executive and diplomat. Far away from the struggles in deep space, on Earth, she works to prevent war between Earth and Mars by any means.

Police detective Josephus Miller, fright officer James Holden, and diplomat Chrisjen Avasarala, discovers something scary.

A vast covert conspiracy involving the missing woman and the ice freighter's fate which threatens all humanity.

The Expanse is one of the better space TV-Shows.

It has excellent world-building and well-paced story. This show has it all! From high-level political intrigues to low-level street action and with everything in between.

Noble families fight for control of the mythical land of Westeros. Political and sexual intrigue is pervasive. They are locked in a battle for the Iron Throne.

This is a grand story of duplicity and treachery, nobility and honor, conquest and triumph.

When you play the Game of Thrones, you either win or you die.

While the noble families play their deadly game, an ancient evil awakens in the north. The Night's Watch is all that stands between the realms of men and this ancient evil.

The Night's Watch is a neglected military order of sinners, outcasts, and people that need to disappear.

Game of Thrones is almost perfect if it was not for the last few seasons. But it's still very much worth watching.