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How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying
by Django Wexler
Imagine being trapped in an endless loop, always playing the hero, always failing. That's Davi's life, and honestly, she's over it. In Django Wexler's How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying, Davi decides if you can't beat 'em, join 'em – or rather, become 'em. This book is a witty, fast-paced ride that turns classic fantasy tropes on their head. It's less about grand quests and more about the hilarious, often morally murky, process of figuring out how to be a competent villain when you've only ever played the good guy. You'll find yourself laughing out loud at Davi's dry observations and clever problem-solving as she navigates an existential crisis with a surprisingly practical approach. If you love sharp satire, anti-heroes with a conscience, and stories that make you rethink everything you thought you knew about good and evil, this one's a treat.
10 Books similar to 'How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying'
If you found yourself captivated by Davi's journey to subvert expectations and redefine heroism (or villainy!) in How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying, we have more for you. Our curated list zeroes in on books that share its unique blend of sharp, satirical humor and a willingness to explore the morally ambiguous corners of fantasy. Whether you're drawn to clever protagonists navigating villainous systems, or you appreciate stories that play with the concept of time loops and learning through repeated failure, these recommendations offer similar thought-provoking takes on classic tropes, all delivered with a distinct, witty voice.
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by John Scalzi
Like Wexler's protagonist, the main character here is thrust into a world of villainous tropes and must navigate them with modern wit. It shares the same satirical take on fantasy/sci-fi archetypes and a fast-paced, humorous narrative voice.
by Tamsyn Muir
This book matches the dark yet irreverent tone and the 'dying trying' aspect of Wexler's work. It features a cynical, strong female lead who uses humor to cope with a grim, magical environment and high-stakes power struggles.
This novel deconstructs the 'Chosen One' narrative in a way that fans of Wexler's subversion will appreciate. It follows a protagonist tired of her epic destiny, blending high-stakes adventure with a grounded, sarcastic perspective.
by Kevin Hearne and Delilah S. Dawson
This is a direct subversion of classic fantasy tropes, much like Wexler's approach to the Dark Lord mythos. It features an ensemble of misfits trying to survive a world that expects them to follow a predetermined, often fatal, heroic path.
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For readers who enjoyed the logistical and 'villainous' side of Wexler's book, Hench offers a gritty, analytical look at the collateral damage of heroes. It features a sharp-witted protagonist who decides to dismantle the system from the side of the villains.
If the 'Die Trying' time-loop or repetitive failure mechanics of Wexler's story appealed to you, this mystery is a perfect match. It involves a protagonist trapped in a cycle of death who must use each iteration to gain more information and change the outcome.
by V.E. Schwab
This book explores the fine line between hero and villain with a dark, modern edge. Like Wexler's work, it focuses on a protagonist who is arguably the antagonist of their own story, driven by ambition and a unique magic system.
This is the definitive 'time loop' fantasy that mirrors the trial-and-error progression found in Wexler's narrative. The protagonist must repeatedly live through the same period to master magic and prevent a catastrophe, emphasizing growth through failure.
This book captures the 'becoming a god/dark lord' energy with a much darker, more surreal tone. It features a protagonist navigating a brutal, magical hierarchy where the stakes are cosmic and the humor is pitch-black.
This story is the spiritual sibling to Wexler's book, focusing on a girl who joins the 'Evil' empire to fix it from within. It leans heavily into the meta-commentary of fantasy tropes and the tactical brilliance required to survive being a villain.
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