I’ve loved everything I’ve ever read, written by Alessa Thorn. But this has to be my new favorite! Her Fae Universe trilogy, and this Ironwood spin-ofI’ve loved everything I’ve ever read, written by Alessa Thorn. But this has to be my new favorite! Her Fae Universe trilogy, and this Ironwood spin-off series are amazing. The focus on Elven warrior Arne, huntress Layla Ironwood, Norse myth (including light & dark elves, Úlfhéðnar, and SO much more), the threat of Ragnarok, and the fantastic Tolkien/LOTR references, felt like a giant, comforting hug and had me sighing from the first page.
All of her FMC’s are so relatable, and you can’t help but identify with each and every one of them, including Layla Ironwood. I might not be a curvy blonde, with even a single tattoo, nor do I hate the outdoors or camping, or doubt myself as much… but she’s still very realistic with her harsh self criticism, and I adored her character development. With Alessa’s writing you always get a delicious male character that balances the FMC perfectly. And Arne Steelsinger, might be my new favorite. ...more
I’m not ashamed to admit… I fell in love with The Last Kingdom show on Netflix. Alexander Dreymon. Need I say more? But after devouring the first few I’m not ashamed to admit… I fell in love with The Last Kingdom show on Netflix. Alexander Dreymon. Need I say more? But after devouring the first few seasons, I realized I had to read the book series, because the book is ALWAYS better.
I listened to this entire series via audiobook, and although I wish they all had the same narrator (to pronounce things properly and consistently), I still adored this amazing series.
From the first chapter Uhtred, Son of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, commanded my attention. A young Saxon boy, raised by Danish Vikings, grows to love his lively Pagan upbringing and yet still respects the training and order of the Saxons.
It’s difficult to describe all of my favorite aspects of Uhtred’s journey. But overall the importance of honor, dedication to family, loyalty, and retribution are a few. Not to mention the incredible cast of side characters, especially Finan, Leofric, Steapa, Ragnar, Gisela, Stiorra, and Bernadetta. This is historical fiction at it’s best, and at times I thought I was reading fantasy because of the elements of Norse and Celtic mythology, and the way it’s just so beautifully written. It should go without saying, Bernard Cornwell’s battle scenes are extraordinary. I still get goosebumps and probably always will, whenever I hear or think of a “SHIELD WALL!”
Not to be dramatic, but finally finishing this series feels like I’ve closed a chapter in my life and almost like I lost a family member. Hands down, another all time favorite series. I might even need to buy a Thor’s hammer necklace, in honor of Uhtred.
“The world is cruel and full of pain and dark deeds.”
I’m still not quite sure how it was possible for Gwynne to add even more depth, or build on to hi“The world is cruel and full of pain and dark deeds.”
I’m still not quite sure how it was possible for Gwynne to add even more depth, or build on to his already fantastic realm of Vigrid, and amazing group of characters… but he did. I’ve never been so instantly connected to such a large group of characters in a book or series. Everyone loves Orka & Brecca, she’s honestly one of my all time favorite characters. But I found myself waiting for Elvar, and Varg’s POV chapters. I adored the dynamic between Røkia, Svik (my favorite), and Varg! Their humor and camaraderie brought so much light into this rather dark world. If Varg & Røkia don’t end up together, I will riot. Also notable mention to the creepy, yet adorable Vesli and Spert. Never would’ve thought I’d enjoy a tooth crunching little flying monster or a water scorpion??? But here we are.
“And the lamb is not made to rule the wolf.”
The element of slavery or “thralls” instantly fills me with rage, and from the first book I’ve been hoping for an uprising or revolution. I had no idea where that plot line would go but I’m so excited to see it pan out.
“Real courage is to feel fear, but to stand and face it, not run from it.”
I think what sets Gwynne’s writing apart (aside from mind blowing world building), would be his incredible way of portraying exceptional characters. How they honor their family, friends, responsibilities, own up to their mistakes, find humor, strength, and love in the darkest times, and how the best people look out for those being mistreated. Ohh and his epic bloody battles, shield walls, and my personal favorite… revenge.
“Harm her and your screams will fill the world.”
Even though I’d prefer to have the next installment of The Bloodsworn Saga in my hands right now, I have a new favorite author, and I plan on reading his ENTIRE backlist while waiting for the next book.
Thank you to John Gwynne and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review....more
Other than dragons, a revenge story, and mostly 5 star reviews from my friends… I had no idea what to expect. Little did I know, I was reading a new aOther than dragons, a revenge story, and mostly 5 star reviews from my friends… I had no idea what to expect. Little did I know, I was reading a new all time favorite.
The Rage of Dragons is an epic fantasy, unlike anything I’ve ever read. The gorgeous African influences, and jaw dropping world building, instantly caught my attention. Evan Winter wrote this so cinematically, and with so much depth and emotion, that you can’t help but fall in love and cheer for these amazing characters.
“Improvement can only come through intentioned effort. Every day must be hard for you. The days without difficulty are the days you do not improve.”
Tau (our main character) has to go down in history as one of the most driven and determined fictional characters ever written. This young man’s story is full of heart ache, but then again… how can your favorite characters claim revenge without loss and trauma?
“He desired mastery more than he desired breath. It was that he wanted revenge more than he wanted to live.”
I was constantly impressed by Tau’s focus, and it’s no surprise that I admired his sense of loyalty and intelligence. I love a character that fights with two blades, and battles against impossible odds.
It did take me a while to understand and accept the caste system of lessers & nobles, and how different tribes referred to each other as “savages” and “heathens.” Typically these phrases fill me with rage, but I think that’s exactly why the author wrote it this way. The combination of the caste system and military privileges, were so crucial to this brutal story. I will always root for the underdog and hope for an uprising for the oppressed. How Tau fights, and instills hope, gave me full body chills (and probably a few tears, but shhh don’t tell anyone.) Naturally I adored how this world recognized the strength in women, as world leaders, heads of household, passing their familial names through the maternal bloodline, and as a society they praise the goddess, Ananthi.
The training, and battle scenes have to be some of my favorite ever written! Tau‘s skill and sense of revenge, fuel the explosive energy of this extraordinary saga, which draws some of my favorite characters together (the chosen 5.)
“By refusing to surrender, no matter how bad the chances, because as long as we fight, the outcome is not set. As long as we fight, there is a chance.”
If you didn’t already think INCREDIBLE world building, an amazing magic system, fantastic characters, or an intense revenge saga were enough… there’s also a sweet love story! Oh, and vicious dragons. Truthfully, I could discuss the powerful elements in this book for days. With that being said, if this has been sitting on your TBR for a while, do yourself a favor and read this magnificent book.
“War is no different to peace. It is simply more honest. Do not hesitate, do not contemplate mercy. Remember everything I have taught you.”
An explosiv“War is no different to peace. It is simply more honest. Do not hesitate, do not contemplate mercy. Remember everything I have taught you.”
An explosive, gut wrenching, epic, bloody, revenge story.
The Exile is a phenomenal novella featuring Dayne Ateres, and a glimpse into his violent & troubled past. As soon as Dayne walked onto the page in Of Darkness and Light, I knew he would play an important role, and piqued my curiosity. Little did I know, from a failed rebellion to a brutal quest for vengeance, how inspiring, hopeful, and yet completely heartbreaking his story would be.
“Burn them all.”
I love a great revenge story or blood feud, (probably more than I should.) And damn, did Ryan Cahill deliver.
“He wasn’t done yet. There was more blood to be spilled.”
I had chills for at least the first third of this book, and couldn’t help but fall in love with Dayne, his family, and history. His dedication, and loyalty, definitely make him a great addition to the plethora of other incredible characters in this series.
“It is never weak to grieve for the ones you love. To hide your tears is to do them a disservice. They have earned your love. Let them have it.”
Without spoiling anything in The Exile, I can’t imagine a better duo of assassins, or the jaw dropping moments when my favorite characters finally crossed paths!
I swear each book just gets better. But one thing that hasn’t changed, is how honest and heartfelt he writes these extraordinary characters. The character development, humor, and interwoven plot was excellent. I’m in awe of his ability to write incredibly heavy scenes, yet lightens them with the perfect dose of humor.
I’m beginning to understand you should always expect bloody chaos, and your heart to be at least a little broken after one of Cahill’s novellas.
“By blade and by blood.”
Thank you to Ryan Cahill, I am so grateful to be honored with an ARC copy of this incredible book!...more
“You will be a phantom killer. A merciless shadow. A god among mortal men.”
At first I was worried this was going to be YA with Endarius a lion god, an“You will be a phantom killer. A merciless shadow. A god among mortal men.”
At first I was worried this was going to be YA with Endarius a lion god, and Lycaena the butterfly goddess, but what I actually read was a stunningly, violent, revenge story full of blood and gore.
Anytime I read a well written fantasy with classic well loved tropes, but done in a modern way, I fall in love with Fantasy all over again. Who doesn’t love a reluctant hero, older mentor, great found family, or a magical relic?!?! Not to sound like a broken record but especially when a male author can represent women in such a strong and powerful way! It shouldn’t be “refreshing” to see women equally included in military or warrior roles, especially in Fantasy, but Dalglish did this VERY well. Then there’s the beautiful representation of same sex couples, and even a religious priest protecting a trans women. I thought this would be a typical, violent, alpha male, revenge plot, but it was so much more.
After young Cyrus the prince of Thanet, witnesses his beloved parents and his god brutally slain, and his kingdom invaded, he remains captive by the conquering Everlorn Empire. Fatefully, leaders of a long brewing rebellion rescue Cyrus and vow to train and sculpt him into the powerful symbol of their rebellion, The Vagrant. David Dalglish created such an endearing, reluctant hero in Cyrus. While overcoming great odds and internal battles, your heart aches for this poor young man. But honestly the emotional insight is so exceptional with all of the amazing characters, you really feel and understand exactly why the characters make every single decision.
Without a doubt my favorite characters are sisters Stasia the (bloodthirsty) Ax of Lahareed, and sweet (yet ferocious) Mari the god whisperer. These two deserve their own series. But not to be outdone by loyal Rayan a paladin of Lycaena. I’m also VERY intrigued by Arn the “Heretic” and Soma the horrible paragon.
It should almost go without saying that the sword training, epic fights and battles are incredible. And the gorgeous descriptions of Thorda’s crafted weapons had me drooling. I’m very excited to read more of Dalglish’s work because I loved his writing style and battle scenes.
Thank you to David Dalglish and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review....more
I thought I loved Darkest Night, Athena and Kon’s story… but somehow Silas & Izabella were just as exciting (but in a less violently sexy way) and morI thought I loved Darkest Night, Athena and Kon’s story… but somehow Silas & Izabella were just as exciting (but in a less violently sexy way) and more of a sweet, pining for each other for years type of way?!?! They still had insane sexual tension and chemistry, with a great revenge plot too. Alessa Thorn has done it again. I love these characters, her action packed writing style, and modern use of magic! I really hope we get Dante & Leo’s story next. The only problem I had, was that I probably could’ve gone the rest of my life without knowing what a “metal pear” torture device was. But at least it’s authentic! One of the best found families. ...more
Wow. I haven’t laughed this much while reading, in a very long time. Incredibly adorable and absolutely hilarious. This is an unexpected new favorite!Wow. I haven’t laughed this much while reading, in a very long time. Incredibly adorable and absolutely hilarious. This is an unexpected new favorite! I’ll try to write down my thoughts, but honestly I just can’t wait to get to the next book.
“Myia nithír til diar, Valerys. I denír viël at altinua.” My soul to yours, Valerys. In this life and always.
The Bound and The Broken series is withou“Myia nithír til diar, Valerys. I denír viël at altinua.” My soul to yours, Valerys. In this life and always.
The Bound and The Broken series is without a doubt THE best example of dragon lore I’ve ever read. How Cahill describes their appearance, intelligence, ability to telepathically communicate to their rider, fire breathing development, first flight, emotional depth & understanding, and the incredible bond between dragon and Draleid, is one of the most intricate fantasy depictions of dragons I’ve encountered. I could go on forever about my love of Cahill’s dragons, especially Valerys.
But I realized somehow in my previous reviews of this series I managed to exclude any mention of this amazing magic system?!?! Of Darkness and Light builds upon the already incredible foundation of characters, and magic system Cahill created in the prequel and first book. From the Knights of Achyron, bestowed powers by The Warrior god and their epic Soul blades, the Magi & Battlemages, Elves, Dwarves, Jotnar (Giants), Angan or shapeshifters, and even the dark magic entities that serve Efialtir (the Traitor God), Uraks, Fades, Bloodspawn and their shaman. This is a complex magical world full of light and dark, that I can’t fully capture in any review, but it is astonishingly well done!
“We honour the dead not by how we mourn their death, but by how we live on despite it.” After all the loss and everything these characters have gone through, it is gut wrenching to see the bravery and emotion that binds them together. Normally I instantly have a favorite character, sometimes a couple if the story is well done. But there are just too many excellent characters to choose favorites in this series!
Honestly I could try to portray my love for this series for days! But I’m going to try to wrap this up… A few more of my notable highlights of this series would have to be how strong & powerful he writes all of his female characters. It’s very refreshing to not have a single fainting “damsel in distress”, which is rare in a male dominated genre like Fantasy. I also appreciate how outspoken and connected most of the male characters are about their emotions, again something you don’t see often. Cahill’s use of animal companions is so heartwarming (especially for animal lovers!) And lastly the sense of humor to lighten some of the heavier, darker moments.
It’s not often I am instantly connected to fictional characters but I know these ones will stick with me for years to come. Well done Cahill, I look forward to the final installment of my new favorite fantasy series.
(Edited 1/4/2023 Thankfully there will be 5 books with a few novellas peppered in!) After listening to the audiobooks, a year later… I can’t even express in words, how much I still adore this series. I’ve recommended it to everyone I know, given it away as gifts, and it just gets better EVERY. Single. Time. These remarkable characters, tough life lessons, and wonderful world, have captured a piece of my heart. Perfectly timed with The Exile’s audiobook release, so I can complete my series reread before, Of War and Ruin releases. I can’t recommend this series enough, so just read it. ...more
This book blew me away. From the EPIC world building, beautiful elemental magic system, culturally diverse & inclusive characters, political intrigue,This book blew me away. From the EPIC world building, beautiful elemental magic system, culturally diverse & inclusive characters, political intrigue, glorious revenge violence, and the religion & mythology, I knew this was going to be great.
“Four worlds, four realms, four gods, all on the same plane of existence. Except now the roads between those realms were cut, the Cosmic Scale no longer in alignment. Each of them floated independently of one another, abandoned by the gods that had birthed them.”
The main characters are from the four noble houses, descended from the gods: Dante & Taesia Lastrider, Risha Vakara, Nikolas Cyr, and Angelica Mardova. They each have inherited divine magical powers, and are all competing for the kings favor. But when demonic conjurers start causing problems, and the annual Godsnight celebration draws closer, their realm starts to crumble. When each heir tries to figure out their own way to save the realm, they learn nothing is as it seems.
“He was afraid, and she loved every second of it.” “She had always been and would always be Taesia Lastrider, carrier of godsblood and feared by the people. Fine then, she thought, straightening to her full height as those around her flinched. Fear me.”
Although extremely dark at times, I absolutely loved the family dynamics! Especially the Lastrider & Vakara families. My new favorite character is Taesia Lastrider. She’s the feisty, “spare” middle child, wild, powerful, unpredictable, and hilarious. Taesia also takes after her older brother Dante, both extremely loyal and willing to go to great lengths to protect their family & people. I also loved the dynamic and comedic relief from the guards Paris, Julian, and Taide.
With so many developments and plot twists, I was constantly surprised and completely captivated by this dark epic fantasy. Honestly the only thing that could’ve made this better is if my E-ARC copy included a map! Because I adore fantasy world maps. Bravo Tara Sim!!! I’m so excited for the rest of this trilogy.
Thank you to Tara Sim and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review....more
“Vigrid is a dangerous place, best to be prepared.”
Jaw dropping and amazing. I knew I would like this book, but little did I know I would fall complet“Vigrid is a dangerous place, best to be prepared.”
Jaw dropping and amazing. I knew I would like this book, but little did I know I would fall completely in love with this story, these characters, this world, and magic system. John Gwynne has such a rich and cinematic writing style, that you can almost hear & smell the story unfolding before you.
As soon as Orka, Elvar, Rokia, Edel, Vol, and all of the other powerful female characters walked on to the page, I knew this was something different. There’s so much talent and skill, when a male fantasy author can portray fantastic female characters, that I personally identify with better than most female authors! Maybe it’s also the fact that Norse Mythology based fantasy, features more equality, with women in power, and on the battlefield. But I have to say Orka, Elvar, and Rokia, particularly stood out because of his incredible writing. I also enjoyed how much depth that he portrayed in his amazing male characters, especially: Thorkel, Varg, Svik, Glornir, Agnar, and Grend, that I completely adored as well!
“I am born for the battle-storm and shield wall. I will make my own reputation, not be wed into someone else’s.”
I’ve been on a huge dragon and Vikings kick lately (because honestly, is there anything better) and this combined the two. I kept waiting for the dragons… and eventually I got my wish. Also I’m insanely grateful for all of the SHIELD WALLS, I get goosebumps reading every single one of those battle scenes.
“I am blood. I am death, I am vengeance.”
As a reader rarely satisfied with (most) vengeance, this satiated my immense revenge craving. I’ve probably never mentioned how much I enjoy bloody, gory battles, or slow drawn out revenge, but WOW did this deliver. Please John Gwynne, give us even more revenge in the next book! ...more
“That’s where prophecies belong, Calen. In stories and fairy tales. Prophecies and fate are words that are used by kings and queens to send young men “That’s where prophecies belong, Calen. In stories and fairy tales. Prophecies and fate are words that are used by kings and queens to send young men and women to their death with smiles on their faces, dreaming of becoming heroes. Fate is fluid. Your destiny is in your own hands – nobody else’s.”
This action packed epic high fantasy is full of things you may expect… honorable knights, fair maidens, magic, elves, dwarves, legendary quests, dragon lore, and the battle between good and evil. Besides being an incredible story, what stands out is the depth & emotional intelligence of these characters. The camaraderie, honor, and respect they show each other, and the strangers (or friends) they meet along the way are so memorable & refreshing! Reading the first page of the prequel, The Fall, I knew this series was different. Cahill’s talent for world building & writing action scenes completely transports you to the realm of Epheria. A few of my favorite elements would have to be Calen’s dynamic with his family & friends (and Faenir), the importance of honor to these characters (especially the elves), the frequent & epic battle scenes, and of course DRAGONS. If you enjoy classic or epic fantasy, I only have one question… Why haven’t you already read this book? I definitely have a new favorite and can hardly wait to start the 2nd installment of this series!
Update: Still one of my favorite books ever! The audiobook was amazing. I caught a few tiny details, I missed the first time on this reread. But mostly I enjoyed some of my favorite characters of all time and a return to Epheria. I wish I could give this more than 5 stars. Not exactly sure what this says about me, but this has to be one of my comfort series. Although constantly having my heart ripped out and holding back tears, this entire series feels like a giant Epic Fantasy hug. ...more
Mind blowing, action packed, fantasy. Honestly I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with as many twists & turns as HOSAB… I never knew where this was gMind blowing, action packed, fantasy. Honestly I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with as many twists & turns as HOSAB… I never knew where this was going, and was completely shocked with most of the revelations. Seriously, Danika?!?!? Enjoyed most of the new characters. Absolutely LOVED all of the Hunt content! Why doesn’t anyone warn you how delicious this male is??? He’s like a glorious blend of Rowan Whitethorn, Cassian, Azriel, and Rhysand! SJM sure knows how to write her Fae males. ...more
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