When the well runs dry on creative character ideas in Dungeons & Dragons, it can be a frustrating experience. But fear not! This list of must-read books based on popular D&D classes offers a treasure trove of inspiration for your next adventure. And who knows? You might just find some ideas that are adaptable to other tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs).
The world’s most popular TTRPG, Dungeons & Dragons, has recently faced backlash due to its proposed replacement of the Open Game License (OGL). The OGL allows third-party creators to produce and distribute D&D-related content within certain boundaries. This license also enables writers of unofficial supplements to monetize their work while retaining ownership rights.
Under the new proposal, Wizards of the Coast would be able to utilize content created by third parties without permission, royalties, or even notification. Fans were understandably outraged. In response to the backlash, Wizards eventually rescinded its plans to replace the OGL. However, the damage had already been done; many loyal D&D players turned their backs on the game.
During this two-week period, Pathfinder publisher Paizo witnessed a surge in sales of the Pathfinder Core Rulebook, selling eight months’ worth of copies. This experience highlights the importance of community involvement and trust in the TTRPG world. If you’re not a D&D player due to concerns related to the OGL, I empathize with your decision.
Nevertheless, these book recommendations can still serve as inspiration for characters in other TTRPGs, such as Pathfinder, Mage: The Ascension, or Stars Without Number.
Must-Read Books Based On Your D&D Class
Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim – Artificer
In a grand affair, the emperor prepares to tie the knot, and his betrothed requires not one, not two, but three enchanting dresses for her big day. To ensure she’s dressed to perfection, the groom invites 12 skilled tailors to vie for the privilege of dressing his bride. However, when an esteemed competitor falls ill, his talented daughter Maia seizes the opportunity to take her father’s place in the competition.
This being the empire where women aren’t permitted to ply their trade as tailors, Maia must adopt a disguise, donning masculine attire and assuming a male persona to participate. As the stakes rise, it becomes clear that winning the emperor’s favor will require more than just exceptional needlework – Maia’s wit, cunning, and charm will be put to the ultimate test.
Crier’s War by Nina Varela – Artificer
In a distant past, humans engineered the Automae, only for these artificial beings to acquire sentience and subsequently dominate their creators after a protracted and merciless conflict. Lady Crier, the daughter of the Sovereign, is caught in the midst of perilous circumstances. She is bound to an Automae separatist seeking humanity’s eradication, while simultaneously being stalked by Ayla, her newly appointed handmaiden – a human orphan determined to orchestrate Lady Crier’s demise.
However, Ayla’s plan is unwittingly compromised by the unexpected discovery that there may be more to Lady Crier than initially meets the eye: an innate capacity for love, forged into her artificial being from the moment of her creation.
The Grey Bastards by Jonathan French – Barbarian
In a world where humanity and orcs coexist in an uneasy alliance, Jackal finds himself at odds with the Claymaster, the leader of the Grey Bastards, a band of half-orcs tasked with keeping the peace on the harsh wasteland that separates the two nations. Despite his unwavering dedication to their mission, Jackal has serious doubts about the Claymaster’s leadership and feels compelled to challenge him.
When his dissent is met with rejection and banishment, Jackal is left to navigate the unforgiving desert landscape alone, driven by a deep-seated concern for the safety of his former comrades. With his sense of purpose rekindled, Jackal embarks on an arduous journey to reclaim his place among the Grey Bastards and restore balance to their troubled tribe.
The Wolf of Oren-Yaro by K.S. Villoso – Barbarian
Five years had passed since Prince Rayyel’s dramatic departure from his wife, Queen Talyien, the night before their coronation was meant to be a triumphant milestone. Instead, it marked the beginning of a long and troubled journey for the queen. The unexpected summons five years later, requesting her presence at a meeting in a distant land, brought back a mix of emotions. Was this a genuine attempt at reconciliation or just another clever ploy to manipulate her?
As Talyien arrived at the meeting, she found herself facing not only uncertainty but also danger. Her would-be assassins were quickly dispatched, but the queen’s troubles had only just begun. The identity of those who sent them remained shrouded in mystery, leaving Talyien wondering if she would ever be able to return home or find a sense of peace.
Babel by R.F. Kuang – Bard
For enthusiasts of the College of Eloquence subclass, R. F. Kuang’s Babel offers a wealth of inspiration. The narrative revolves around Robin, a Cantonese orphan raised in London, who harbors a lifelong ambition to attend Oxford University’s Royal Institute of Translation. This esteemed institution serves as a nexus where linguistics and magic converge.
However, the very same magic that Robin has devoted his life to mastering is the key factor behind Britain’s dominance over the world, including the land of his birth, which raises complex questions about cultural identity and power dynamics.
Siren Queen by Nghi Vo – Bard
Step into the world of old-Hollywood glamour, where the spotlight shines bright on Nghi Vo’s captivating protagonist, Luli Wei. A rising starlet with Chinese heritage, she’s constantly typecast by a racist industry, yet refuses to conform to the stereotypes thrust upon her. Instead, she takes bold risks by playing complex, often monstrous villains, ultimately crafting a successful career path that defies expectations.
But behind the silver screen lies a realm of dark magic and treacherous deals, where Luli will soon find herself beset on all sides by formidable foes.
Ninefox Gambit by Yoon Ha Lee – Blood Hunter
Yoon Ha Lee’s Ninefox Gambit sets the stage for her Machineries of Empire trilogy, where disgraced military leader Cheris embarks on an improbable quest to regain the favor of the empire she once served. Her sole ally is the ghostly presence of Jedao, a brilliant strategist whose past Cheris desperately seeks to avoid repeating.
The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski – Blood Hunter
When embarking on an Order of the Mutant player’s Dungeons & Dragons journey, Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcher series is an essential starting point. The character of Geralt of Rivia, a mercenary intentionally mutated as a youth to become a highly effective monster hunter, serves as a precursor to the blood hunter archetype.
Although the series’ non-chronological publication order may present some challenges for new readers, beginning with ‘The Last Wish’ provides a solid foundation for exploring the world and characters further.
Servant of the Underworld by Aliette de Bodard – Cleric
In Aliette de Bodard’s Obsidian and Blood trilogy, Servant of the Underworld sets the stage with a gripping narrative that whisks readers away to ancient Mesoamerica. Acatl, an Aztec priest, finds himself at the centre of a mystery when his brother Neutemoc, a respected member of the esteemed Jaguar Knights, is implicated in the gruesome disappearance of a priestess. The victim’s room is splattered with blood, and the only clue points to Neutemoc as the prime suspect.
With time running out before his brother’s execution for murder, Acatl embarks on a perilous quest to unravel the enigma, navigating the treacherous landscape of Aztec politics and mythology.
Strange Practice by Vivian Shaw – Cleric
Unlike conventional doctors, Dr. Greta Helsing’s specialty lies in treating the undead rather than the living. Her unique patient roster includes mummies, ghosts, and other creatures of the night. However, when a series of gruesome murders targets both her supernatural clientele and unsuspecting Londoners, Dr. Helsing must trade in her scalpel for a detective’s notebook to uncover the identity of the ruthless killer.
This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron – Druid
Inheriting her aunt’s apothecary business and property, Briseis is given the opportunity to utilize her remarkable magical affinity for botany. As she tends to the various plants under her care, her reputation as a skilled healer spreads quickly among her aunt’s clients seeking remedies for their ailments. However, her lack of understanding about the apothecary trade attracts individuals looking to capitalize on her talents.
Complicating matters further is the discovery of a hidden secret within Bri’s new home, which sets off a captivating fantasy-mystery that will keep readers engaged until the very conclusion.
The Sisters of the Winter Wood by Rena Rossner – Druid
In a peculiar twist of fate, members of the local Orthodox community maintain a deliberate distance from Liba and Laya’s parents, largely due to the girls’ mother having undergone a conversion to Judaism. However, when word reaches Mami and Tati about a relative’s precarious health situation, they set aside their reservations and embark on a journey to offer support.
Before departing, the couple entrusts Liba and Laya with an extraordinary family secret: the ability to transform into different forms, passing down this peculiar trait through generations.
The Unbroken by C.L. Clark – Fighter
Touraine’s latest mission is a complex one. As she returns to the nation where she was born, now colonized by the empire that took her away as a child, she’s tasked with guarding the emperor’s niece. Luca hopes to delay the coming revolution and gain support from her uncle when she attempts to overthrow him.
However, this requires Touraine’s help, forcing her to confront the conflicted emotions she harbors about her birthplace and military career – all before the two can develop feelings for each other.
Lone Wolf and Cub Omnibus, Vol. 1 by Kazuo Koike and Goseki Kojima – Fighter
In the midst of Tokugawa-era Japan, Ogami Ittō’s life is forever altered when assassins slaughter his wife and servants. The lone survivor is Ittō himself, along with his newborn son Daigorō. But the tragedy doesn’t end there. Falsified evidence prompts the Shōgun to believe that Ittō was plotting a rebellion, leading to his downfall.
Refusing to succumb to ritual suicide, the embattled samurai instead chooses to defy the authorities and embark on a perilous journey as a rōnin, an honorless warrior, accompanied only by his infant son’s unwavering presence.
Jade City by Fonda Lee – Monk
In a world where jade is the sole source of extraordinary abilities, the Kekonese people have honed their skills through rigorous training from a young age. This ancient art is not without peril, as those who wield it improperly risk catastrophic consequences. The delicate balance is further complicated by the fact that only individuals with mixed ancestry can harness its power safely.
Amidst this intricate backdrop, two powerful crime syndicates, the Mountain and No Peak clans, vie for control of the lucrative jade trade. As tensions simmer between these rival factions, the Mountain clan senses an opportunity to strike at the weakened No Peak, setting the stage for a conflict that will test the very limits of Kekonese strength and cunning.
A Hero Born by Jin Yong – Monk
In Jin Yong’s epic wuxia novel, the fates of two sons are forever changed when one father meets a tragic end while the other disappears into thin air. The divergent paths they take shape their destinies in profound ways. Guo Jing, with his gentle and compassionate nature, is raised among Genghis Khan’s warriors, dedicating himself to mastering martial arts techniques that would eventually make him a valuable asset to his community.
On the other hand, Yang Kang, driven by cunning and ambition, is nurtured by his stepfather, a Jin prince, as he plots against his biological father’s people with calculated precision.
Arrows of the Queen by Mercedes Lackey – Paladin
Talia’s fate takes a dramatic turn when she’s summoned to fulfill her duty as a Herald of Valdemar, narrowly avoiding an arranged marriage in the process. As she embarks on this new path, Talia is paired with a magical Companion, a majestic creature with shimmering silver hooves that shares its thoughts and wisdom with her. This life-changing partnership propels Talia into a world beyond her wildest imagination.
However, as she delves deeper into her training, the looming threat to Queen Valdemar’s safety remains, leaving Talia to wonder if she’ll have enough time to hone her skills before the queen’s fate is decided.
Paladin’s Grace by T. Kingfisher – Paladin
In the absence of his deity, paladin Stephen finds himself at a crossroads. His faith, once the guiding force in his life, has been disrupted by the untimely demise of his god. Seeking a new sense of purpose, Stephen takes on hired work as a bodyguard and grapples with the lingering questions about his identity. It is amidst this turmoil that he encounters Grace, a perfumer whose troubles have unwittingly drawn her into a complex web of intrigue.
Her predicament presents an opportunity for Stephen to rediscover his value, but the serial killer terrorizing the city threatens to cut short his journey towards self-discovery.
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland – Ranger
As the Civil War drew to a close, Gettysburg’s hallowed grounds were eerily silent, haunted by the specter of American racism. In this twisted new world, quotas forced Black and Native American children into grueling monster-killing and bodyguard training, catering to the whims of wealthy white families. Amidst this gruesome reality, Dread Nation weaves a tale around Jane, a unique individual born from a union between a Black man and a white woman.
As she navigates the unforgiving world of military training in Baltimore, Jane must unravel the tangled threads of a murder mystery, her very survival hinging on her ability to uncover the truth.
Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse – Ranger
In ‘Trail of Lightning’, Rebecca Roanhorse masterfully combines the genres of climate fiction, fantasy, and mystery to create a truly captivating narrative. The story centers around Maggie and Kai, an unlikely duo consisting of a monster slayer and a medicine man, as they delve into the mysterious disappearance of individuals in Dinétah, the former Navajo reservation where the boundaries between reality and mythology have become increasingly blurred.
Child of a Hidden Sea by A.M. Dellamonica – Rogue
For your Swashbuckler rogue’s creative spark, immerse yourself in the captivating world of A.M. Dellamonica’s Child of a Hidden Sea. This portal fantasy novel introduces 24-year-old Sophie as she finds herself transported into Stormwrack – a mystical realm where everyone seems to be familiar with her existence, despite it being unfamiliar territory for her.
Even Though I Knew the End by C.L. Polk – Rogue
The Inquisitive rogue archetype holds a special place in my heart. It’s only natural that I’d want to incorporate C. L. Polk’s Even Though I Knew the End into my story – a tale that also lends itself well to a warlock character, for those who appreciate such dark magic. The narrative revolves around Elena, a brilliant and lovestruck private investigator who’s granted an eleventh-hour chance to rescue her soul from damnation.
With her current deal with the devil set to expire in just three days, she must use that time to catch Chicago’s most notorious serial killer – a challenge that will push her skills to their very limits.
The Witch King by H.E. Edgmon – Sorcerer
Wyatt, a trans witch, finds himself torn between his mundane life and the whimsical world of the fae when his best friend and betrothed, Emyr – a charming fae prince – summons him back to their shared homeland. This union was initially forged as a strategic alliance, with Wyatt’s magical prowess intended to be passed down to their future offspring.
However, Wyatt’s departure from the land of the fae following a mysterious incident has left him struggling to balance his newfound stability and the allure of his royal partner. The call to return sparks a maelstrom of emotions, forcing Wyatt to confront the complexities of his past and the uncertain future that lies ahead with Emyr by his side.
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin – Sorcerer
Sorcery in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is a timeless fascination of mine – I’ll cease recommending this book only when my own pulse ceases to beat. In the world of D&D, magical abilities are derived from one’s ancestral heritage, a concept eerily reminiscent of N. K. Jemisin’s Broken Earth series.
Specifically, The Fifth Season, the inaugural novel in this critically-acclaimed trilogy, delves into the life of Essun, an orogene in hiding, as she embarks on a quest to avenge her deceased son and rescue her kidnapped daughter from the clutches of her murderous husband.
The Black God’s Drums by P. Djèlí Clark – Warlock
In P. Djèlí Clark’s imaginative alt-history novella, the outcome of the U. S. Civil War takes a unique turn as America splits into two distinct countries. One nation abolishes slavery, while the other perpetuates its dark legacy. At the heart of this alternate reality is Creeper, a determined young Black girl from New Orleans. Her journey begins when she stumbles upon a sinister Confederate plot to launch an invasion of the Union using a mysterious magical weapon.
With only a loyal airship captain and Oya, an enigmatic orisha who grants her extraordinary abilities, Creeper must rely on her newfound powers and resourcefulness to thwart the impending threat and reshape the course of history.
The Gentleman by Forrest Leo – Warlock
In the midst of a Victorian era, where literature and poetry thrived, a peculiar historical fantasy unfolds around Lionel, a renowned poet whose life takes an unexpected turn. His marriage to Vivien comes to an abrupt end when she vanishes into thin air, mere moments after a mysterious guest arrives at their doorstep. This enigmatic visitor is none other than the Devil himself, casting a dark shadow over Lionel’s world.
As his wife remains missing, Lionel must embark on a perilous quest to locate this powerful acquaintance and devise a plan to rescue Vivien, but this feat proves far more daunting than he initially anticipated.
Modern Divination by Isabel Agajanian – Wizard
Aurelia had successfully kept her magical abilities under wraps for 23 years, carefully crafting a life that was everything she had ever wanted. But when a rogue witch pilfered her powers, leaving her feeling powerless and trapped, Aurelia knew she had to take drastic measures to reclaim what was lost. This meant putting aside her deeply ingrained values and forming an unlikely alliance with someone who would test her patience at every turn – all while risking the very fabric of her reality.
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir – Wizard
Tamsyn Muir’s novel offers a unique opportunity to explore various roles within the realm of Dungeons & Dragons. One of the most captivating aspects is the necromancer, particularly as presented in Gideon the Ninth. This book delves into the world of necromancy, showcasing distinct forms of magic practiced by each of the Nine Houses.
From communicating with the deceased to crafting weaponry from skeletal remains, these practices offer a rich foundation for creating a unique and intriguing character. If you’re looking to craft a macabre wizard with a distinctive flair, Gideon the Ninth provides an ideal starting point.