Why I Love John Gwynne’s Books in The Banished Lands (spoiler free)

[@noname3609]

What a beautiful journey this was ! The Banished Land's Tales are beyond amazing ! :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m very happy you loved your time in The Banished Lands! We are fortunate to have John Gwynne’s stories.

[@noname3609]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Don't make me cry Philip.😭

[@PetrikLeo]

YOU DID IT! You finished them all, Philip! It has been one heck of an adventure, too, talking about these books with you. Looking forward to A Time of Courage discussion soon! I pretty much agree with everything you said! :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, my friend! You have been the greatest advocate of John Gwynne’s books, and I’m so happy and honored that I’ve had the opportunity to discuss them with you. One more gathering of the warband! Truth and Courage!

[@stepan.tichyy]

Mr. Chase, you are the reason why I bought all seven books. I love your pitches for books and so far you've never disappointed me. Thanks!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Stepan! I hope you'll enjoy your time in The Banished Lands as I have. It's been a beautiful journey for me.

[@tylerroberts119]

One of my all time favorite series! Banished lands are beautiful

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I agree - there is a real beauty to these books and the world they bring to life!

[@vaughnroycroft999]

Funny, but I ended up writing two essays featuring Gwynne's work. One on his unique use of standard tropes, and one on the importance of friendship in storytelling. Good additional observations here, Philip. Thanks.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Very cool, Vaughn! Have you published those essays somewhere? I’d love to read them.

[@tkinsey3]

'Gwynne's books make me FEEL.' Could not have said it better myself. So much emotion in these books.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Trent! Reading the books in The Banished Lands has been quite an emotional journey.

[@SJ-GodofGnomes21]

Agreed

[@JohanHerrenberg]

Great sales pitch, Philip! The Milton link might well have convinced me to read John Gwynne. 'Paradise Lost' is part of my life. But first I'll have to get on with Esslemont and Janny Wurts!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne’s spin on Milton gets more interesting as the books progress and he starts subverting tropes. The inspiration from Paradise Lost will no doubt be evident to you very early, though. I hope you’ll enjoy The Banished Lands if you visit. Happy reading in the meantime, Johan!

[@JohanHerrenberg]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks, Philip! Esslemont I'm enjoying very much. I'm now in the final stretch of 'Stonewielder'. Janny Wurts is interesting, I must say. I'm reading the first volume of her series The War of Light and Shadows, 'The Curse of the Mistwraith'. Her prose style and her world are extremely individual. Not an easy read, every sentence is a link in a chain. She has total verbal control. Erikson is less unyielding... It will be interesting to see how her world will open up (as I expect it will) and if her style is capable of anything...

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@JohanHerrenberg I’m looking forward to reading Wurts soon too!

[@CasiniDivision]

On book two just now after your recommendation. So far I’m loving the characters and the world. I’m now on the lookout for my very own wolven cub!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m happy to hear you’re enjoying the read! With the first part a success, the odds are very high you’ll love the rest.

[@Nxrth2001]

Reading Valour over on Mike's discord right now, enjoying it very much. Hyped for the rest of the series as well. The short chapters are just phenomenal, its gives you a heightened sense of progress as you zoom past the chapter numbers.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Short or sectioned chapters seem to be the way to go these days, especially with perspective shifts, since they hold the reader’s attention effectively. Glad you’re enjoying Valour, Chirag! For me, Ruin was a big step up in Gwynne’s writing.

[@Nxrth2001]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy that so? I've heard from a lot of people Ruin was their favourite, can't wait to get to it Philip :) and yes, short chapters are just great!

[@yorkshirelasstracey5383]

This was fantastic Philip. I think you sold these books to everyone. 🤓 I love all John Gwynnes books my special favourite is Ruin book 3 from The Faithful and the Fallen series. Your passion for these books is so good to see. I'm looking forward to the discussion on Jimmy's channel they're always fun. 🤓

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Tracey! I hope you don’t mind that I cited you again - your comment about “heart” has obviously stuck with me. Ruin is my favorite book in the Banished Lands, I think, but they’re all great. It would be lovely to see you for the discussion on Jimmy’s channel!

[@yorkshirelasstracey5383]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Aww I'm happy that my comment struck a chord Philip and you articulate what I meant so well. I'll definitely be watching the discussion however time wise as I'm in England it may be that I can't see it live. PS exciting day for me today I'm going to see Dune at the cinema. 🥳

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@yorkshirelasstracey5383 Have a blast watching Dune, Tracey! I plan to see it on Sunday!

[@BookBuds]

I have been eyeing Gwynne for a long time. You make it sound so much more enticing. Thanks for all the info! Love your channel.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I’ve really enjoyed my time in the Banished Lands because Gwynne brings so much of the heart of classic fantasy to his writing. I hope you’ll enjoy the books if you give them a try!

[@BookBuds]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Awesome- I definitely have to read him 👍

[@BookBuds]

Hi Philip. We tagged you today in our latest video- our original tag The Book Buds Tag. Check it out.

[@AverageJoesLibrary]

Yea all of what you said is why this is my number 1 all time series. It’s also such an accessible and packed in series.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

“Accessible” and “packed” are two excellent words to describe Gwynne’s books. They deserve their increasingly beloved place among the great stories of the fantasy genre.

[@grimdarkwrld]

I’m super looking forward to all of the Banished Lands books; I currently have Malice just chilling on my shelf just waiting to be read. I don’t know whether you have read it at this point, but if you haven’t you got to check out Gwynne’s new series. The Shadow of the Gods was my favorite book of 2021 and made me so much more excited to start reading the Faithful and the Fallen (and Of Blood and Bone). I cannot recommend Shadow of the Gods enough, it is simply fantastic and epic in every sense of those words!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The Shadow of the Gods is my favorite thing Gwynne has written so far. He does a fantastic job of conveying the feel of an Icelandic saga. I was lucky enough to get an ARC of it, and I reviewed it shortly before it came out. I’m excited for book two this year!

[@JavierReyes-vi7vj]

Just added the first book to my wishlist. I can say your videos do often encourage me to check out a series, thank you for making these

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Javier! I hope you’ll enjoy your time in The Banished Lands as I have!

[@Johanna_reads]

Wonderful hearing all the reasons why you love The Banished Lands! Although this is clearly influenced by classic fantasy, I appreciate that connection is considered its own heroic deed in addition to courage in the face of doom. I look forward to reading them someday. Thanks, Philip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Johanna! I hope you’ll love Gwynne’s books if you read them. They truly have a lot of heart.

[@shawngillogly6873]

In modern fantasy it's rare to see books that both look at life with brutal honesty, and yet unironically and unflinchingly call us to embrace "classic" virtues. Truth and Courage. That he does so without it ever breaking character, or even leaning hard on the 4th Wall, is masterful writing worthy of the Heroic Fantasy heritage, from Beowulf to the Drenai Saga.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Beautifully said, Shawn! These days, it's tough to write fantasy about courageous characters without sounding either cliched or ironic. Perhaps that's one reason behind the appeal -- Gwynne writes books that allow us to enjoy those "traditional" fantasy tropes even as he keeps his stories modern.

[@shawngillogly6873]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy and I had said "unironically," but Android "corrected" it for me. So I fixed their fix. Unironically. It's a word, Android.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@shawngillogly6873 I actually figured something like that. Curse autocorrect!

[@shawngillogly6873]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 😁

[@locolima279]

Great video. This book has my favorite Banished Lands quote- We of the Order have sworn our oaths and sealed them in our blood, pledged ourselves to truth and courage. But you who have not said the words, I know that you are the same as us, in your hearts. Warriors, brothers and sisters bound to a cause. Otherwise you would not be here now, standing at our side, risking your lives. This is the sharp edge of who we are. We will stand and fight, together. There is no retreat this time. We win or we die.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ah, that’s a beauty! There are some stirring passages in there, for sure. Thanks so much - I love that quote!

[@lucianaetrigan]

You said it all! Drem became one of my favorites characters of all time (along with some violin player soldier and a mysterious Adjunct and an earthsea mage… ).

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Those are all fantastic characters to love! Drem, Fiddler, Tavore, and Ged - perhaps they’d enjoy cards together! Then again, with Fiddler there, probably not. 😁

[@lucianaetrigan]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 🤣

[@creaturesbookreviews3074]

Well, I started this video out of curiosity but now…. A story that pushes feelings and nods to classic fantasy gets put on my TBR immediately. When you referenced Milton as an influence, I was completely sold. I studied Milton extensively while getting my degrees. My professor was one of the greatest Milton scholars I have ever ever encountered and a dear friend. Dr. H. G. Merrill was a fantastic man and great influence on my life. He would have loved such a series of books. Perhaps I will read them in his honor. Thanks for a great review.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m happy that the review piqued your interest in Gwynne’s writing. The influence from Paradise Lost is evident fairly early, but it gets more interesting as The Faithful and the Fallen progresses and Gwynne starts subverting some tropes, and that continues in Of Blood and Bone. I hope you’ll enjoy your journey to The Banished Lands!

[@creaturesbookreviews3074]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I appreciate that! Thanks again!

[@alexfrederick3404]

I really enjoyed your review. I remember many beautiful passages that I would reread just to enjoy again, many of them full of wisdom to take right into my own life. Thanks Mr Chase ... I wish I'd had teachers like you when I was in college!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Alex! I’m glad my thoughts on The Banished Lands brought back some good memories for you.

[@BookishChas]

Such a great review Philip. Makes me even more excited to start this series.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy the Banished Lands when you get there, Chas!

[@brush2canvas849]

Wow! Those two quotes... so poignant and beautiful! Gwynne is another author I have not read and what I've heard so far is very much in the line of action packed and grim, so I didn't expect language like that. But that does tuck at the heart! And there I clicked on this video thinking if nothing else I can look at the artwork. You definitely subverted my expectations. I really should know better by now.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Subversion is one of our favorite activities around here! 😁 Gwynne's books allow me to once again enjoy what I loved about fantasy when I was younger -- stirring acts of courage and heroic values -- even as he keeps his stories modern and subverts some of the old tropes. They have a strong emotional impact if you become immersed in them.

[@brush2canvas849]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 😂as I say I should know that there is a passion driven subversion expert at work. Emotional impact -- hmmm, not against it, not at all, but where would Gwynne fall on the totally subjective Erikson makes me cry on every second page emotional impact scale?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@brush2canvas849 If you ever figure out a way into that dimension, please let me know since I could use it too! 😁

[@brush2canvas849]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy ha, ha, wish that was possible. But the only thing you would use that for would be playing more tennis.😜😁

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@brush2canvas849 Ha ha! That’s probably true! 😁

[@willisix2554]

I just found your channel Today! I read the Fateful and the fallen, And just finished "A Tine Of Blood " Today!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Awesome! Sounds like you’ve enjoyed your journey to the Banished Lands!

[@willisix2554]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm starting A Time Of Courage in a couple days AND i have Shadow of the gods waiting. This is the best I've read since ASOIF Edit what do you think of Memory sorrow and thorn ? Tad Williams

[@tokyoreads4019]

The two short passages you shared sound like they could be read during a meditation session. The words themselves quite simple but the meaning behind so powerful and universal. I probably would have devoured the series 10 years ago, but I’ve grown sensitive with age. I hope to pick it up one day when I have more courage to face certain doom and the deaths of beloved characters 😅

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne’s books do hit readers hard. The character deaths can be tough, but the most emotional moments for me have been when characters find their tribe - the friendships are beautiful, especially with the animals!

[@NKopp714]

Excellent non-spoiler review. I'm sold. Once I finish Abercrombie's "Age of Madness" series (which I am flying through), unless my copy of Erickson's "The God is Not Willing" shows up, this is now at the top of my reading list.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy Gwynne’s books, Noah! I recommend starting with The Faithful and the Fallen. The writing goes to another level in book three of that series, Ruin. For me, Gwynne’s books served as a nice contrast to the “heavier” reads I usually love. I didn’t need to think much - I could just get lost in the story and relax.

[@RJGibson7]

Amazing video Philip! A lot of what you said is the same reasons why I love the banished lands. I don’t think there’s a modern fantasy series with as much heart and it honestly changed the way I thought about life, I feel like I’m a better person now after reading faithful and the fallen.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, RJ! When a book or a series helps you to become a better person, that is perhaps the greatest endorsement there is. Gwynne's books have so much emotional resonance, I think, because they help us to understand our own struggles and the importance of facing them through courage and friendship.

[@fjuran1]

Philip, great video as always. Read the Faithful and the Fallen and loved it. However, I am a bit apprehensive in reading (even though already on my physical TBR pile) the Blood and Bone trilogy, afraid it won't stand up from a characterization point, due to the fact that I had really grew to care for many of the characters that Gwynne wrote so well. So true that these books make you feel. I'm debating whether to move onto the Shadow of Gods instead?????

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

For me, Of Blood and Bone actually increased my nostalgia for The Faithful and the Fallen. The human characters are long gone in the sequel trilogy, but they are remembered, and it was interesting to me to see how they’re remembered. Whatever you decide, happy reading!

[@c.j.thomas6470]

I subscribed to your channel a couple of days ago and I’ve been really enjoying your reviews. This one certainly adds to the list! I’ve yet to read any of John Gwynne’s novels, but as an aspiring writer I’ll definitely pick a few of his books up! Once again, fantastic video Philip! :-)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy your journey to the Banished Lands, C.J.! I’d recommend starting with The Faithful and the Fallen, and you can see Gwynne growing as a writer through the series, especially in book three. Thank you for subbing to the channel, and I wish you great joy and fulfillment in your writing!

[@c.j.thomas6470]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thank you for the recommendation, I’ll definitely start on that title and see where it goes! Can’t wait! No problem Philip, you’re certainly worthy of many more subs, which I’m sure will come! Thank you very much for the supportive comments, best wishes and health to yourself also!

[@Thecatladybooknook_PennyD]

I'm reading The Faithful and the Fallen now and loving it. I can't wait to read all of his works.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I'm so glad you're enjoying The Faithful and the Fallen! That's a very good sign that you'll like the rest of Gwynne's books.

[@amitwagner5075]

For me the journey is only beginning, about halfway through the first book and absolutely enjoying it so far. I found the use of Hebrew words intriguing. Elyon means supreme. Ben-Elim means the son of gods. Kadoshim can mean saints, though I'm not sure that tracks... Ben means son, so Corban ben Thannon means Corban the son of Thannon. Corban can mean victim or sacrifice (as in sacrificial lamb), or it can mean total destruction, depending on pronunciation. Quite ominous. I'm pretty sure the Corban thing is merely a coincidence but I guess I'll know soon enough.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@amitwagner5075 There is so much you will find out! My best wishes for the journey, Amit!

[@TheyTalkPolitics]

He is an author that is definitely on my list. It sounds like we have similar views on what makes a good novel.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

If you ever read Gwynne, Joseph, I hope you'll enjoy his books. Of Blood and Bone has more horror elements than The Faithful and the Fallen. In any case, I recommend starting with TFATF. Cheers!

[@thomassears1432]

Thank you for your thoughts. I have Gwynn’s book “Shadow of the Gods”, but have not read any of his other books. I intend to do so.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

My pleasure, Thomas, and I hope you’ll enjoy Gwynne’s books!

[@pateris]

As the translator of John Gwynne's book, thank you. I'll keep all your remarks in mind when I work on them. I must admit, I'm not really a fantasy reader, so this helps. I noticed the animal stuff, once I thought "only a dog lover (as I am) could write this", and will keep the rest in mind. BTW I could not keep the tribute to Michael Wadleigh's "Wolfen" (M. Gwynne confirmed that it was, and I love that movie ever since I saw it as a wee lad), it would not fit. Kill your darlings works in translation too, aye ?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Oh, marvelous! What language are you translating Gwynne’s books into, if I may ask? It sounds like an exciting project!

[@pateris]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy In French. Yes it's a lot of work but as Mrs De Gaulle was saying watching her husband leave for London in 1939 : at least, while he's doing that, he's not a the pub drinking with his mates…😇

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@pateris Ha ha! I wish you the best with the translation work!

[@pateris]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thank you, I do my best so the French readers have the best experience ! (your comments on the historical side was helpful too. I'm ready to read on the "real" vikings… Ah, well, I'll ask M. Gwynne by e-mail what he recommends !)

[@pateris]

P.S. I also translated the Brian McLellan Powdermages trilogy. I guess you know all about it, but if not, highly recommended, I took a real kick out of those, and as I said, I'm not even a devout fantasy reader !

[@blakeminiard7051]

So glad to see you endorsing a series I love, and I'm glad to have your take on the series as well since nobody I know has read this series either! Lol Edit to add: I feel like I should add more to these comments on how I felt about the books you're reviewing, but I get so excited to hear someone else talk about my favorite series that I just end up writing heaps of praise. I'll try to start adding to the conversations more in these comments!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s always fantastic to hear from you, Blake, and I’m happy to know you enjoyed The Banished Lands as well. It’s quite different from Malazan in terms of pacing, placement of theme, and many other things, but fantasy has room for lots of narrative styles. Cheers!

[@jules.mp3]

I'll definitely have to check this trilogy out. I just read The Shadow of the Gods and loved it. It was my first Gwynne book!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

If you venture into the Banished Lands, I recommend starting with The Faithful and the Fallen since Of Blood and Bone is a sequel of sorts that happens 130 years later. Also, if you read Of Blood and Bone first, you’ll spoil the end of The Faithful and the Fallen. Whatever you decide to read, though, I wish you great joy and fulfillment in it!

[@jules.mp3]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thank you so much!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@jules.mp3 My pleasure!

[@BookBlather]

Oh boy. I was thinking I might first try Bloodsworn after hearing you talk about it, since I like Norse tales. Obviously, I’ve heard you discuss Faithful and the Fallen before, but you make such a good case for it here, you had me second-guessing. Of course, you then wrapped things up with Shadow of the Gods being your favorite, so now I’m completely torn 😩😂

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Sorry! I suppose deciding where to start with Gwynne is a good problem to have. One factor to consider is that if you start with The Faithful and the Fallen and then Of Blood and Bone and then read The Shadow of the Gods, you will have less time to wait for book two of The Bloodsworn Trilogy. Not sure if that helps, but I look forward to your thoughts on whichever Gwynne book you read first!

[@epiphoney]

I've read half of Malice, but it seemed to have an overwhelming number of characters. Maybe I'll finish it because of you.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll come to enjoy your time in the Banished Lands!

[@EzekielPrellus]

I just finished book seven, A Time of Courage, and have started book 1 of his third series. I actually thought the second series, Of Blood and Bone, (books 5-7) was better than The Faithful and the Fallen (books 1-4), if for no other reason than he tightened the focus onto fewer characters which, in my opinion, was the biggest problem with the first series. His animal companion writing is not to be missed and all I said to myself as I turned the pages was, please don't kill the bear or the crow or the wolven, etc. Interesting how he left several things wide open for a future return to the Banished Lands. On the downside, in the second series, his fascination with the movie Gladiator really bothered me. He repeated the lines "death smiles at us all, all a man can do is smile back" and "the frost, sometimes it makes the blade stick" too many times and they are direct lifts from that film.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne does love his films, and I think he puts those “Easter eggs” in there to amuse himself. I actually agree with you about the later books in the sense that Gwynne honed his writing craft. My take is that The Bloodsworn Trilogy is thus far his very best writing. I hope you’ll enjoy it, Ezekiel!

[@jeroenadmiraal8714]

Maybe one day I will read this series. But a lot needs to happen before that time. First, I need to transform back from a newt to a human. And then find my way back to Earth. In the meantime I am enjoying your videos from my tank.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Being turned into a newt has its downsides. But take heart - I heard from one of those Monty Python chaps that, after being turned into a newt, he got better. 😁

[@safinan8008]

Hi great video!! Like the review of the books... 📖🍁

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Safina!

[@sethulakovic3722]

I am almost done reading the Faithful and the Fallen to my son. We are halfway through Wrath. We read LOTR and this seemed to be a good place to go next. He loves it. 👍

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I wish The Faithful and the Fallen had been around when I was a kid! A perfect follow up for a boy who loved The Lord of the Rings, I would think. Happy reading, Seth!

[@MetalGildarts]

The Faithful and The Fallen is so good. I look forward to Of Blood and Bone next year.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I predict you’ll enjoy Of Blood and Bone!

[@MetalGildarts]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 😄

[@willisix2554]

Its out now! I just finished book 2 "A Time Of Blood" Today

[@MetalGildarts]

@@willisix2554 yeah I know I got book 1 of the sequel trilogy, will acquire the other two soon.

[@neilhughes9310]

Great video, Philip. Your passion is not understated. You mention Paradise Lost. Just curious if you have read His Dark Materials (Philip Pullman). Essentially written for a younger audience than someone born in the 1950s, I am finding it very engaging.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Hello, Neil. I read His Dark Materials with my older daughter when she was a young teen, and I loved it. A masterpiece, and also one with some Paradise Lost influence. Cheers!

[@SJ-GodofGnomes21]

When you read Gemmell you will come across Joinings . They will be very familiar

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne has cited Gemmell as an influence, and I’m looking forward to seeing that.

[@JoffJk]

Great video, I'm currently reading a time of dread.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I wish you the very best as you finish your time in The Banished Lands!

[@linuslauterbach2975]

Great review! Have you ever read anything by Michael Moorcock and how did you like it? Would love to see your reviews of his books!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Linus! I haven’t read anything by Moorcock yet, but I’m eager to read his Elric books. That will most likely happen at some point next year.

[@onfaerystories]

Thank you so much for this video! I read Malice, enjoyed it enough to read Valour, but wasn't impressed with this second book. I didn't feel a stronger connection with the main characters (I think it's because there were too many POVs and so I never felt I really knew any character on an intimate level), found it very predictable (the last death of the book seemed so obvious to me - you have the typical chosen one who HAD *SPOILER* to become an orphan in order to fulfill his journey). Would you say the villains become more interesting and complex? I wish Evnis had more personality and a bigger role to play. I didn't care for Nathair or Calidus. Someone actually told me that Nathair doesn't change his original perspective, which I found very unfortunate. Also, Gwynne did tackle some important topics (loyalty, slavery, dehumanization), but I felt we were mostly witnessing these things, just scratching the surface for the sake of the action and suspense. I need more than that in my books, I want an author to challenge me and make me think deeper. I want the author to have a conversation with me - to a certain extent - through his story. Do you think I'll still be unsatisfied with the next books or do they get more and more complex in that way? As you can tell, I would need some kind of motivator for me to continue on. I'm really on the fence. 😬

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

In fact, my opinion is that Gwynne’s writing noticeably improved with Ruin, which begins to subvert many of those tropes you see in the first two books. There were some developments that even took me by surprise. So, if you enjoyed the first two books at all, I would say try out Ruin, which is where I started to feel like a fan of Gwynne’s writing.

[@nachiketgurjar2769]

Great video! Would certainly add this to my TBR. I would enjoy reading a modern take on classical fantasy, especially a modern writing style. Because even though I cherish reading LOTR and the Silmarillion as one of my favourite fantasy memories, Tolkien's ornate and archaic prose definitely got on my nerves and ground my gears. With the focus on old European cultures like the Celts you mentioned, would you liken these books to the Wheel of Time in terms of cultural influence, but where Jordan drew inspiration from the Orient, Gwynne chose the West? Also, is the statue on your far right Ganesh?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Nachiket! Yes, that is indeed Ganesh. I lived in South Asia back in the 90s, and my wife is from there, so we have lots of Hindu and Buddhist art in our home. About the comparison between Gwynne and Jordan, I think that, in general, that's a good observation about the ways in which they use their inspirations. Their writing is different stylistically, where Gwynne is much more concise, but they both give nods to the stories and places that influenced them.

[@nachiketgurjar2769]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy My pleasure. It's great to know that you visited my country and I hope you enjoyed your stay. Which parts did you visit, if I may ask? Also, a short and sweet type prose would certainly be a palette cleanser from all the Wheel of Time I've been reading.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@nachiketgurjar2769 I lived in Nepal, in Kathmandu mostly, but I also traveled all over India, from north to south. I spent more time in the south, in places like Pondicherry, Ooti, Hyderabad, and Kochi. It was an amazing experience!

[@nachiketgurjar2769]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy That's great! I've been to Hyderabad before. It's a cool place with a good amount of history.

[@Nxrth2001]

@@nachiketgurjar2769 I agree, happy to know Philip had a good time here in India.

[@angelaholmes8888]

I really enjoyed the series I'm glad I decided to give it a try the only book from John gwynne that I haven't read is shadow of the gods 😀😊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

They are wonderful reads that pack a strong emotional punch. The Shadow of the Gods is my favorite Gwynne book so far, but I admit that a lot of that comes from the strong Norse influence in it.

[@angelaholmes8888]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm definitely excited to read shadow of the gods in November 👍💯

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@angelaholmes8888 Awesome!

[@djsuth7727]

Hard to disagree with anything you've said here, Philip. I've thoroughly enjoyed all his books ( haven't read Shadow of the Gods yet, but have a copy on my shelf ). Still an under-rated author, it seems ; he deserves greater acclaim.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, DJ! Gwynne is skilled at hitting a lot of the notes that we fantasy fans love. I think it’s partly because he started as a fantasy fan too, and of course a lot of hard work on his writing craft.

[@cipriansirbu3699]

Is A Time of Courage dethroned Ruin as your favourite Book in the Banished Lands?My favourite remains Wrath. Have a nice day,Sir.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I still rate Ruin the best book in The Banished Lands, followed by Wrath. A Time of Courage is third for me, but of course I enjoyed it thoroughly! You have a great day too, Ciprian!

[@SJ-GodofGnomes21]

Am about a 100 pages into A Time Of Blood.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Excellent! For me, A Time of Courage is easily the best of the trilogy, but the first two books do the work of getting there. Happy reading, Si!

[@MrRorosuri]

💜💜💜

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The same to you!

[@delberttaylor7661]

I am fairly new to reading here. Where can I get the larger “floppy” paperbacks?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I ordered mine on either Amazon or Barnes and Noble (online). Just be aware that these days delivery is sometimes taking longer. Best wishes!

[@batcavedave2535]

These books sound great but what is the first book in the series? Thanks!😁

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The first book of The Faithful and the Fallen is Malice. The Faithful and the Fallen includes Malice, Valour, Ruin, and Wrath. The sequel trilogy is Of Blood and Bone, and it includes A Time of Dread, A Time of Blood, and A Time of Courage. Happy reading!

[@batcavedave2535]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy that's great, thanks so much for the info!!☺️

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@batcavedave2535 my pleasure!

[@FrancT-]

Gwynne's novels are filled with rugged characters that go through hell. I love that aspect of his stories, because it is a very effective way to connect with them, and feel for them. One of my favorite characters in fantasy is Maquin. His story is very well done, and it hits you when it's all over.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Well said, Frank! I agree with you about the connections we form with Gwynne's characters as they suffer and persevere. Maquin was a standout for me as well, probably my favorite from The Faithful and the Fallen, though I enjoyed Camlin's arc too.

[@MrRorosuri]

👏👏👏

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you!

[@Heidi123]

Do you have any book recommendations for my 7 year-old son?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

At that age, my daughters were reading Harry Potter, so that might be a possibility. I also loved reading The Hobbit to them at that age. Lots of other stuff too, but those are the main ones I recall in terms of fantasy. My first fantasy series was Lloyd Alexander’s The Chronicles of Prydain, but I was a bit older than seven, I think. My best wishes to you and your son!

[@Heidi123]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy thank you!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@Heidi123 My pleasure!

[@darkportents9835]

do you have to read the first trilogy before this one?

[@darkportents9835]

Does Malice get better or is it just an entire book of homework for the sequels

[@darkportents9835]

PS you look really sharp in this video, even more dapper than usual. Love your aesthetic always, king. 👑

[@angelaholmes8888]

Actually no because the second trilogy takes place over 100 years later

[@darkportents9835]

@@angelaholmes8888 oh wow. Do you recommend reading them in order or is it totally irrelevant which trilogy you read first

[@angelaholmes8888]

@@darkportents9835 I think you should read malice first even though the of blood and bone trilogy takes place many years later that's what I did malice starts off slow but by the middle it starts getting real good

[@Wordsalad69420]

Having finished the first 4 books, I decided I will not be continuing the series for various reasons: 1. Lazy magic system. The magic was so underwhelming, he might as well not even have bothered with it. 2. No world building whatsoever. A bunch of homogenous kingdoms dominate the continent. Then there is a random Arabic-like culture (even sounds like it) at the east of the continent. Mkay. How did that happen? 3. Thin mythology. I'm sure he goes into this more in the sequel trilogy, but I was expecting something more than Asroth evil, Ben Elim good. Literally no other background. If he does not go into it in the next 3 books then I would say he completely failed in that aspect. 4. Severely underwhelming artifacts. Seriously. Besides the cup, the other ones do fuck all. To me it seems Gwynne spent all his energy on battles and plot, but completely forgot the other pieces of fantasy.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Having read four books, you certainly gave The Banished Lands a shot. To me, the magic especially in The Faithful and the Fallen is similar to what you see in Abercrombie’s First Law books - not the main focus - and I’m fine with that. The only other point I’d address is that there are strong indications in the latter half of The Faithful and the Fallen that the Ben Elim are far from pure good, and this really gets developed in Of Blood and Bone. But, like I said, you gave the books a fair shake, and not every story is going to work for every reader. Best wishes with your next read!

[@ZamWeazle]

Different strokes for different folks!

[@Wordsalad69420]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks got the insight. Yes, Ben Elim "good" wasn't as clear cut, but evil sure was pretty run off the mill. I stayed with it mainly for the plot and characters. Except for a few tidbits (the whole Halvor nonsense), it was a solid ending I'll give him that.

[@thesmuli83]

Hi. A good book and a great ending to a good series. However, I think the first series is much better⚔🐺💯 Somehow it felt like this series took away the accomplishments of Corban and his partners😢

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It's a curious thing -- while I think Gwynne's writing got even better, and while Drem is my favorite character from The Banished Lands, there is an incredible nostalgia factor to The Faithful and the Fallen that makes me love that series a bit more than Of Blood and Bone. For me, the latter actually made me fonder of the former -- I missed Corban and company while reading Of Blood and Bone, especially because of the references to them.

[@thesmuli83]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy It was a great video, by the way. Thank you. The truth is that all the books in The Banished Lands are awesome to read.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@thesmuli83 Thanks! We definitely agree on all the books being great!

[@cabrademora1]

:D

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Diego!