40 fantasy and science fiction books you should read in 2022

The First Binding by R.R. Virdi (Tales of Tremaine #1) — August 16

R.R. Virdi, author of Grave Measures, is releasing the first volume in his new Tales of Tremaine series this year, and wow does it sound like something that would be perfect for fans of The Kingkiller Chronicle. You’ll see what I mean from the back-of-book:

All legends are borne of truths. And just as much lies. These are mine. Judge me for what you will. But you will hear my story first.

I buried the village of Ampur under a mountain of ice and snow. Then I killed their god. I’ve stolen old magics and been cursed for it. I started a war with those that walked before mankind and lost the princess I loved, and wanted to save. I’ve called lightning and bound fire. I am legend. And I am a monster.

My name is Ari.

And this is the story of how I let loose the first evil.

Thus begins the tale of a storyteller and a singer on the run and hoping to find obscurity in a tavern bar. But the sins of their past aren’t forgotten, and neither are their enemies. Their old lives are catching up swiftly and it could cost them the entire world. No one can escape their pasts and all stories must have an ending.

The First Binding is being touted as an 800+ silk road epic fantasy, so if the synopsis above evokes Rothfuss’ work, the setting promises to be vaster and more varied. Virdi is already an established hand in the fantasy genre, so this could be one of the next big series depending on how the first volume goes over. It’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you’re into the door-stoppers.

Pre-order it: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million