Review of John Gwynne’s The Shadow of the Gods, book 1 of The Bloodsworn Trilogy

[@PetrikLeo]

Look at you, Philip, reviewing such a popular ARC now! Proud of you, and I love this review!! 😁 Still thankful of the discussions, my friend!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much for watching, Petrik! You are a major reason why I’m a Gwynne fan, and it’s so cool that we have been discussing his books with our friends. So, thank you!

[@alexnieves]

Philip, sir, you always add that extra bit of context and/or historical context that is refreshing for a book review. This is another excellent entry by John Gwynne and I'm so happy you liked it! Gwynne has quickly become a favorite of mine and I think you as well and he continues to impress. I'm really excited and looking forward to Of Blood and Bone and chatting with you all about it!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Alex! I'm also excited to be reading Of Blood and Bone and discussing it with you and our other friends. Lots to look forward to!

[@bookwurmlibrary3064]

I feel myself getting smarter just listening to you. I am kind of envious of all your students. Now off to preorder the book.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! I really enjoy interacting with my students. I hope you’ll love The Shadow of the Gods!

[@1337rico]

Prof. Chase, I am so glad I found your channel. You were my professor for English Comp. 2 year ago. As a science major, English was not my forte, but you made it fun and helped me build on skills I now use for lab reports, etc. Aside from that my general interest in reading fiction/fantasy has bloomed through the pandemic, and become a hobby. You have a great energy, and keep up the great work!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s so wonderful to hear from you! I love getting comments from my students and former students. Also, I’m glad to hear you’ve been enjoying your reading lately. My very best wishes to you!

[@AshtheViking]

I'm so excited for this! After finishing my MA in Viking studies and dealing with some disappointing personal circumstances I found myself actively avoiding Viking and medieval inspired media both fiction and nonfiction. It's been a few years now and I can't think of a better author to bring me back home.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I have a feeling you'll really appreciate Gwynne's handling of the material and how it inspired him. He's also a super nice human being from what I've seen!

[@TheKmahrt]

I love the unique perspective you are able to give these books because of your knowledge and background! Thank you!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! I enjoy it when a fantasy author gives me the opportunity to quote Beowulf!

[@mich7008]

I have a pretty steady diet of fantasy and some science fiction and I can’t remember the last time I have enjoyed a story/ saga so much! I’m in the middle of book 2 and days away from the release of book 3 and I am soooo excited to press on. Great review Sir , I’m so happy I finally picked up this trilogy.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

My very best to you for the rest of the trilogy! I will be chatting with Petrik, Mike, Ed, Will, Sam, and John Gwynne about it in mid November!

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

All I needed to hear was that his writing has gotten even better. I’m so excited!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s my favorite Gwynne book so far, and I predict that his fans will love it!

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy That is high praise. I can’t wait to get my preordered copy!!!

[@markymarkeaton]

Same! I’m just about done with Valour and can’t wait to get this book next month!

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

@@markymarkeaton Ruin and Wrath are also fantastic!

[@markymarkeaton]

@@AndrewsWizardlyReads can’t wait to get to them!

[@annekaminor6937]

I just finished the Shadow of the Gods yesterday and loved it. Thank you for sharing your insights from your own literary background. It really added a lot to my appreciation of the book how much thought and research went into building this world. Great review! Thank you!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Anneka! I really appreciate the positive feedback and the kind words. Also, I’m glad you enjoyed The Shadow of the Gods!

[@QandTG]

Y'alls discussion with John Gwynne was AWESOME! And I've heard nothing but praise for this new book. Your additional praise continues to get us more Hype and excited! Your Saga insight in this review, wonderful context! Thank you!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! Gwynne is such a great guy, and The Shadow of the Gods is definitely my favorite book by him I’ve read so far. I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@thebrothersgwynne]

Loved listening to your Old Norse, Philip! You have inspired me to read Beowulf again, thank you! So glad you enjoyed the book. Heya! Ed

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s brilliant! I don’t know how you’ve kept quiet about it all this time, but I’m bursting to talk spoilers. Perhaps you and William would like to join me for a spoiler discussion after the release?

[@thebrothersgwynne]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy It's been a tough year! We were tempted to use some Galdur magic and sew our lips shut. We would absolutely love to! Will is preparing for exams in May but I'm sure we could find a good time for him to squeeze some book chat in. Ed

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@thebrothersgwynne Excellent! I’ll be in touch!

[@benjaminharmon1111]

You bring such a unique perspective to your videos. It makes them very insightful and entertaining. Great review.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I have a lot of fun reviewing fantasy, which I also enjoy teaching. I appreciate you watching and commenting!

[@brentasmith]

This is excellent. I love when I can learn something and then appreciate a book like this on a whole other level.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! Gwynne has done an excellent job of creating a story that reflects the themes of the old sagas. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

[@ryanpotter1105]

Ok I needed a new series and your video sold me on starting this bloodsworn series. Thanks Phillip when I finish this I will let you know how I liked it.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy it, Ryan!

[@ryanpotter1105]

I just finished the book and I loved it. Every story arc had me hanging on every word and could not put the book down. I also loved the settings and the city in the skull of snakavik was really amazing. Thank you for your reviews because it put this series and author on my radar. I just acquired the hunger of the gods and am jumping right into book two. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks again Phillip

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@ryanpotter1105 That’s fantastic, Ryan! I’m really happy you enjoyed the read. Hunger of the Gods is even better, in my opinion, but it’s safe to say you’ll enjoy it since you liked book one.

[@lunanielsen9144]

there are tons of fantasy authors and series I’m currently prioritizing on my TBR, but Gwynne has definitely caught my interest

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

This could be a good year to try Gwynne's books since book three of The Bloodsworn saga will be out in October.

[@Suhovs]

This is one of the best book reviews I have seen on the booktube ever, thank You!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I appreciate your kind words very much!

[@javadasadi7858]

Again an awesome review, philip chase. Old lanuages are awesome. Old Norse is awesome (also its cousin old english). Your passionate speech alone raises the stakes for john gwynne's new book so high. The video is altogether breathtaking! I love your take on Sagas. The thematics are very visceral. I believe the themes are shared in old epic poems of my homeland as well! (Though the sagas are not exactly in poem)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That’s a great point, Javad! There are elements to myths and legends around the world that connect them, and that is part of the fascination for me. They speak to our humanity, like all great stories do.

[@francoisbouchart4050]

I really appreciated that you left a lot to discover for ourselves. You drop a lot of teasers without spoiling anything. Thank you. As for your insights into sagas, priceless 😊.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Francois! It's always tricky to do a spoiler-free review, but this one was easier for me since I enjoyed the saga inspiration behind it. If you read it, I hope you'll love it!

[@TheBookCure]

I can always count on your reviews to teach me something ☺️ I did enjoy the psychological complexity here; also loved how the setting influenced the characters and their actions. This was a fantastic book to read and a really fun one to review! Looking forward to hearing more of your thoughts in the future!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Sarah! I still need to watch your review as well. Now that I've done mine, I'm going to be watching some others. I'm eager to hear your take!

[@alynam82]

So I just started this yesterday, as my first Gwynn read, and I'm up to pg 51 now... 👏wow, this has me hooked! I'm a historical fiction fan, and this story has me invested. I'm glad I watched this review when it came out, which prompted me to order this. I look forward to the group video with you all and the Gwynn Brothers soon

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m very happy to hear you’re enjoying The Shadow of the Gods, Anthony! The group discussion was a ton of fun, and everyone offered some excellent insights. Happy reading to you!

[@TheLibraryofAllenxandria]

This was fantastic, Philip! I love your passion for the Icelandic Sagas! And personally, I was excited when you mentioned 'litotes'...Caesar used them a lot as well! Really great review and I'm pumped to read it next month!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m excited to hear your reactions to all these Vikings, Allen! 😁 Caesar seems like the sort of cool cat to use litotes.

[@storieswithc]

Loved this review! You sold it so well without telling us too much! Very cool to hear the review from someone with your academic background in the subject :)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! The book really reminded me of reading an Icelandic saga (which I love) in places. If you give The Shadow of the Gods a try, I hope you'll enjoy it!

[@gabrielplanas1033]

I loved the context and background you provided regarding the Sagas and old Norse story telling. I read a bunch of the Sagas For some creative projects in college, but I never had the chance to study them in a meaningful way. I know it's not the primary purpose of your channel, but I for one would love to see some videos about old English/Norse storytelling and history from you, your passion for it is infectious! I haven't read much of anything from John Gwynne, but considering all of the buzz this book is getting I will definitely have to pick it up!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I’ve done a Beowulf discussion on Andy Smith’s channel - it was a lot of fun, and definitely more of what I do for my work as an English professor. I might do more of that sort of thing in the future on my channel. If you give The Shadow of the Gods a try, I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@mvinson8706]

I thought the same thing. Downside is waiting for the next book. I just finished it and loved it! Great review!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, and I’m glad you enjoyed The Shadow of the Gods too!

[@adamcrawford6421]

Wow, this is some high praise! All the talk about this book is getting me very excited. I can't wait until my pre-order comes in!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@noname3609]

What an amazing book ! Absolutely loved it ! Best 1st book by Gwynne in a series doubtless !

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I completely agree with your assessment - it’s Gwynne’s best opening to a series so far, and I’m so happy that book three will be out in October!

[@noname3609]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Best present for my birthday 😁

[@mondinsel4235]

I finished reading it today and absolutely loved it! I appreciated the characterization, the fact that (found) family played such a big part in it because it never fails to pull at my heartstrings and the setting. What a way to start and I can't wait to see what comes next.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

The Hunger of the Gods is supposedly arriving today for me. I keep checking my doorstep!

[@esmayrosalyne]

Thanks for this amazing review! I finished Wrath last week and immediately started A Time of Dread, because I just could not wait to read more from John Gwynne. Speaking about Wrath, I absolutely loved the discussion you had over on Petrik's channel! It was so much fun to hear you all gush about the series and it was really exciting to see that John Gwynne joined the discussion as well, that was a wonderful addition to the video :) Anyway, I was already (not so patiently) waiting for the release of The Shadow of the Gods, but your review managed to get me even more excited! I can't wait to pick it up after hearing you sing its praises, it just sounds amazing 🤩

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Esmay! I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying Gwynne’s books so far, and I hope you’ll love The Shadow of the Gods!

[@esmayrosalyne]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks! I actually just pre-ordered it, so I will let you know my thoughts when I finally get to read it :)

[@SandrasLibrary]

Philip, the Distinguished Gentleman’s take on Shadow of the Gods is my favorite review yet! Really enjoyed your insights and elucidation on Old Norse! Your passion for the subject matter really shines through 💡

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Sandra! I had a lot of fun with this one. If I ever manage to finish all the essays I’ve got to grade near the end of the semester, I’ll start watching more reviews of it just to relive it through other people’s eyes. Thanks so much for watching!

[@SandrasLibrary]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy ouch-I don’t envy you there. Good luck with grading the essays! They’re lucky to have you!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@SandrasLibrary Thanks! Teaching is wonderful - grading not so much, but it’s part of the deal.

[@imokin86]

This was very interesting, thanks! Noted the book. With such an introduction, I'm sure I'll like it. For everyone who wants an introduction to the sagas, The Saga Thing Podcast is a great place to start. The hosts are professors who discuss individual sagas one by one and explain their stories, with lots of humour and detail.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Cool! I hadn’t known about The Saga Thing Podcast, so thank you, Igor!

[@cynthiaholmes5124]

Will you Also be doing a discussion on the of blood and bone series with your friends just like you did with the faithful and the fallen series 🤔

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That's the plan! I think it will be happening this summer.

[@lucianaetrigan]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy please do! Blood and Bone is even better than TFATF

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@lucianaetrigan I’ve ordered the books, and I’m looking forward to reading them!

[@stuart1346]

I’ve been delving into the sagas recently to prep myself for this. So excited

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

That’s an admirable and perfect way to prepare oneself for The Shadow of the Gods! I hope you’ll enjoy it - I know I did!

[@tylerblack301]

Awesome review Philip! I can’t wait to read this book. I just saw this morning that John said he’s finished writing book 2! 🥳

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Tyler! That’s awesome to hear about Gwynne being done with book two because a lot of people will be excited to read it!

[@MasonInTheDark]

This was a fantastic review. It was so interesting to hear about this book from your POV with your knowledge of the sagas. Personaly I know little to nothing about them but I will definitely keep an eye out for the themes that you mentioned wen I read this next month. I've never read anything by the author before but between you, Petrik and the others talking about this I am pretty excited.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you! I really enjoyed this one, and though that’s partly because I vibe with the saga feel and themes, it’s also because Gwynne has really honed his writing craft as well. The Faithful and the Fallen was a lot of fun and a moving experience, but this is a notch above it, in my opinion.

[@MasonInTheDark]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy With the hype surrounding it and people like yourself who's opinion I respect enjoying it so much I'm kind of nervous to read it if I'm honest. I feel like if I don't like it I'm going to have to change my name, move to the woods and go into hiding in fear of angry booktubers coming to claim my head :D.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@MasonInTheDark Ha ha! Well, some people do get weirdly upset if you don’t worship their favorite series, like it’s some kind of personal insult. But I’m pretty sure most healthy adults can separate the criticism of a book they like from themselves. At least I hope so! Personally, I have no problems with people expressing distaste or disappointment with a book I like. If we all agreed, where would the conversation be? And there are so many great books to discuss!

[@alynam82]

Fantastic review! I've not yet started any Gwynn works, but you've got me psyched for this one, more so than Faithful and the Fallen. With Norse influence, and the limited character POV, I know I can get into this one

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Cool! I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@Ulmo90]

Liked the book a lot, I need to pick up the next one asap

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I loved The Hunger of the Gods even more! I hope you’ll enjoy it too!

[@kinahthecat]

That was an excellent review. I was already planning on giving John Gwynne a try so this will be an interesting starting point.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I think it would be an excellent starting point!

[@stacymccaskill-lilja2944]

I have Ruin coming up on my May tbr and I cannot wait to get to it! I can't wait to have Shadow of the Gods on my shelf. Gwynne has quickly become a favorite author for me. Thank you for another wonderful review.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Stacy! To me, Ruin is definitely a level above the previous books. If you’ve enjoyed those, I would expect you to love Ruin. Gwynne has become a must read for me too!

[@jenniferbrooks]

When you said it felt similar to the sagas, all my worries were assuaged! I knew you would dig into the historical and literary heritage here and I’m so glad to hear that Shadow of the Gods really explores those themes! It takes very little for me to enjoy “Viking” fantasies (because I just love the Vikings) but there are things that can really turn it and make it special. I’m still new to your channel so I’m not sure if you’ve read it but if you haven’t, I’d recommend the Last Light of the Sun by Guy Gavriel Kay. It’s set in a fantasy version of Alfred the Great’s Wessex (and Britain as a whole). At any rate, I will be diving into my ARC of Shadow of the Gods soon!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Of Kay’s books, I’ve read only Tigana, but that sounds like one that would be up my alley, for sure! I hope you’ll enjoy The Shadow of the Gods!

[@mariareadsssf]

Thank you for all the information! English is my second language. You mention something about Islandic language... My concern is I might not understand this work. That would be a shame because I am so excited do read it, especially it after Petrik's review.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Icelandic is used in the book as the language of magic, so there’s no worry. Even most of the other characters, the non-magical ones, don’t understand the words! Happy reading!

[@Johanna_reads]

What an inspiring review! Sounds like this book spoke to your medievalist heart! So interesting about the old Norse legendary sagas and thematic references. Before watching this, I was trying to decide whether I want to pick up Shadow of the Gods or Malice first. Now I'm trying to decide whether I want to pick up Shadow of the Gods first or some translated Icelandic sagas. It's always a treat to hear you speak in Old English, and I enjoyed the quotes and themes you discussed! I love courage as a response to impending doom. We especially need that for monsters and dragons. Additionally, the intimate, contained nature of this story and psychological depth also appeals to me. Thanks!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I suspect you’d enjoy The Shadow of the Gods and some Icelandic sagas, Johanna. The Saga of the Volsungs would be a logical one for you since, in addition to the Middle High German Niebelungenlied, it was a major inspiration for Wagner’s Ring Cycle.

[@Johanna_reads]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy thank you! I will definitely have to check that out! Have you seen or listened to the Ring Cycle before? I've only listened to parts, but my voice teacher friend, Andrew (who I mentioned in my Q&A video) was a Helden Tenor. He sang the role of Siegfried (as well other roles) in Germany for years. I wish I could talk him into being a guest on my channel.

[@BookBlather]

Ditto on everything! I was literally just about to ask him if he could recommend a modern translation of an Icelandic saga 😂. I too was planning to try Malice soon, and now this video has me debating. (I’ll admit, the History Channel’s ‘Vikings’ has been one of my favorite shows in recent years). Great analysis, Philip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@Johanna_reads Very cool! You could have him on your channel when you do your video on operas for fantasy fans. I’ve watched recordings of The Ring Cycle (never live, alas). I had a mentor in college who was crazy about it and had VHS recordings of the operas.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@BookBlather Thanks! I’d say you can’t go wrong with Gwynne either way, but this is my favorite so far.

[@yorkshirelasstracey5383]

I read The Prose Edda earlier this month and love love loved every second of it. I have been so excited to read The shadow of the Gods for months and now only have 12 days until my copy arrives. Your video has made me even more excited, if that is at all possible to read it. All of John Gwynnes books are wonderful and indeed his writing gets even better with each one. Enjoy the Of Blood and Bone trilogy Philip. Looking forward to your thoughts on those books also. Thank you for your passion for this book, I'm sure mine will be the same.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

You couldn’t ask for better preparation to enjoy The Shadow of the Gods than reading The Prose Edda! I’m confident you’re going to love Gwynne’s latest, and I wish you much joy in your reading!

[@yorkshirelasstracey5383]

I've read some incredible books this year Philip, however The Prose Edda is my favourite. I read Norse mythology by Neil Gaiman before it and that left me wanting, The Prose Edda however was exactly right. Have you read The Poetic Edda? If so in your opinion does it add to the myths or is it simply another way of telling the same thing. Any recommendations for further reading on the subject would be greatly appreciated.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@yorkshirelasstracey5383 Oh, yes! Definitely read The Poetic Edda. You’ve prepared yourself for it by reading The Prose Edda, which was really Snorri’s purpose. I’m sure you’ll love it!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@yorkshirelasstracey5383 You also might like to try Snorri’s Heimskringla!

[@yorkshirelasstracey5383]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm ordering The Poetic Edda and Heimskringla right away.. Once I get a spine tickle from a book I always want more. Thank you Philip.

[@unholyhairdo64]

I agree, this is Gwynne’s best work so far! I read Malice like 2 years ago and I picked up Valour a few months ago then burned through the Faithful and Blood and Bone. The one gripe I had was the amount of battles in those series. Shadow of The Gods was pretty flawless as far as I’m concerned. Keep up the good work Phillip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you, Orwell! It’s awesome to interact with another Gwynne fan, and especially awesome when that Gwynne fan, like me, finds The Shadow of the Gods to be Gwynne’s very best writing so far. I appreciate the encouragement!

[@SamPegg90]

Well that’s certainly moved up a few rungs on the TBR ladder! I am curious if you’ve ever been to Iceland at all? I just moved here in December (my fiancé is Icelandic) and it is such a great place! Obviously lots of history here that you’d love by the sounds of it. Also the Prose Edda is one of the wildest things I’ve ever read!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I envy you living in Iceland! I’ve never been there, but I hope to visit someday. Yes, the Prose Edda is quite a trip, and it sets you up to read the Poetic Edda, which is even trippier!

[@SamPegg90]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Ahh yes you should definitely visit some day, you won’t be disappointed! I am trying to learn Icelandic at the moment, and whilst I am doing ok, it is so so difficult. Yes I got a book with both the prose and poetic Eddas (required reading if you have an Icelandic partner!), I loved them both. My favourite part is where Þór has the 3 challenges and is deceived!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@SamPegg90 Ha ha! Yes, the Thor stories are quite funny in their often understated way. Best wishes with learning Icelandic - again, I envy you!

[@SteveTalksBooks]

Looking forward to reading this one after we finish the Faithful and the Fallen series, hear lots of great things about this one. Thank you for the review!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’re enjoying The Faithful and the Fallen! The Shadow of the Gods hit all the right notes for me.

[@SteveTalksBooks]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy We're starting a group read of the series next month, we're all really excited about it.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@SteveTalksBooks Very cool!

[@Thecatladybooknook_PennyD]

Great review!! I just bought the Faithful and the Fallen so I'm looking forward to getting to this new one also.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you'll enjoy The Faithful and the Fallen -- it was a lot of fun for me!

[@jormungandthemidgardserpen1845]

I wonder, why am i so excited to read the Shadow of the gods? Great review, as always. You occupied wonderful niche in my opinion with in-depth discussion of themes, origins and inspirations of any given piece of fantasy literature.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thank you so much! Based on your name, it's a safe bet that you're going to love The Shadow of the Gods!

[@jormungandthemidgardserpen1845]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy yeah, exactly. I almost forgot. And the award for the best pronunciation of the word "Ragnarök" goes to... Philip Chase. Congratulations!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@jormungandthemidgardserpen1845 Ha ha! Thanks! I’ll take that award!

[@FilipMagnus]

Shadow of the Gods is going to be my very first John Gwynne book-very excited about it! But your opening, Philip, has made me eager to better familiarise myself with the Icelandic sagas you were so complementary about. Which sagas would you recommend, in translation? I hope you'll take a spoiler-heavy look at the novel a few weeks into release. Cheers!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks, Filip! A spoiler heavy discussion is in the works! As for Icelandic sagas, if you want to try some of the “local” stories, you could start with Egil’s Saga, Grettir’s Saga (Grettir the Strong), and Njal’s Saga (Burnt Njal). For more mythological/historical sagas, I recommend The Saga of the Volsungs and Snorri Sturluson’s Heimskringla. And don’t forget Snorri’s Prose Edda and the Poetic Edda if you want to read the major sources for the mythology.

[@FilipMagnus]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy The Eddas I've read--and loved! I'm familiar with Egil's Saga, but Grettir's and Njal's don't ring a bell - I'll be sure to hunt them down and devour them.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@FilipMagnus Excellent! Happy reading!

[@thatsci-firogue]

I'm very interested in seeing what Gwynne does with a much smaller cast of POV characters. Dunno whether I'll read this first or Of Blood & Bone but I can't wait

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

My guess is either way you’re going to enjoy the read! I’ll be moving on to Of Blood and Bone soon myself!

[@melsbookshelf]

I’m just about to start malice and haven’t read anything of his yet, but I’m pumped for this one, I see SO MANY amazing reviews!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

When you get to The Shadow of the Gods, I think you’ll notice how Gwynne has successfully worked on his writing craft. I enjoyed Malice, but The Shadow of the Gods is the best I’ve read from him so far. Happy reading!

[@melsbookshelf]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I will look forward to experiencing the difference then! Great video!

[@jahanshah1538]

Question to all the Faithful and the Fallen fans: I think I accidentally stumbled across a spoiler for the series before even starting it, namely the identity of the Black Sun, did I ruin a big twist for myself or are there others that will keep me satisfied?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I would say no worries! The identity of the Black Sun is something you can piece together as early as Malice. There are bigger surprises than that, for sure!

[@jahanshah1538]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks! Looking forward to starting it after the last four Wheel of Time books

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@jahanshah1538 my pleasure!

[@MetalGildarts]

Finally gonna start The Faithful and The Fallen next month! Can’t wait to get to SotG.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Awesome! I predict you’ll enjoy Gwynne’s books! I certainly hope so!

[@MetalGildarts]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy well considering that I rarely DNF a book I don’t see why not!

[@jakebishop7822]

I probably should have applied for a netgalley arc, but I want to read this beauty in the hardback. Anyway, I can't wait for this, I am super hyped.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s definitely my favorite Gwynne book so far, but I still need to read Of Blood and Bone. Once you get it, I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@robpaul7544]

It sounds amazing - you make me want to buy this. Right now 🤣 But, gotta admit, am a bit nervous. Faithful and the Fallen didn't connect with me as it did with many others. So I'm going to try and finish that one first.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

If you do finish The Faithful and the Fallen, I’ll be very curious to hear your thoughts, Rob. To me, Ruin was clearly a step up in narrative craft. It seems to me that Gwynne has continued to work hard on his writing, with some excellent results. Happy reading!

[@NamasteBbooktube]

Brilliant, informative review. 👍

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks so much! I enjoyed the book thoroughly!

[@curlsnoutx1]

I didn’t know about the similarities with Icelandic Saga’s... I recently read Egil Saga and loved it. This book is now moving up my TBR list!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I think you’ll notice the saga inspiration when you read The Shadow of the Gods. I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@MacScarfield]

A Viking-inspired post-apocalyptic Epic Fantasy, after a Ragnarok? Boy, oh boy am I jealous on you getting an advanced copy, Professor! As I have recently been reading about Clark Aston Smith's doomed Civilizations on a Dying Earth in "Zothique", Poul Anderson's "Northern Cycle" and listening to Wagner's "Ring Cycle" (along with various adaptions, such as Alex Alice's Epic Graphic Novel "Siegfried" & Fritz Lang's Silence Movie Epic "The Nibelungen"), Gwynne could not a have timed the release of this book better for me! Godzilla-size dragons doesn't hurt either! Serj Tankian's metal cover of BÖC's "Godzilla" seems as fitting soundtrack for this story as the "Ride of the Valkyries"! I hope we don't have to wait too long on a more indept analysis from you Professor, as I would love to hear your full and honest thoughts on the Mythology of this world. I would for example guess that the major warband of the story, the "Bloodsworn", would in part be inspired by the historic "Jomsviking" warband. Are there any plans for a future discussion chat similar to the "Faithfull and the Fallen" videos? (PS: As a Norwegian, it saddens me to admit that my initial reaction to the name of the world as "Vigrid" (the battlefield of Ragnarok in Norse Myth), have been tainted by the fact that the largest Neo-Pagan White Power Group in Norway use that very name. I of course don't blame Gwynne at all for using this very fitting historic term for his world, and I really hope that it will not cause undue responses in any way.)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I myself was ignorant of the appropriation of “Vigrid” by such idiots, though I can’t say it surprises me. My own feeling is that we should not allow people with a racist ideology to “own” any mythology, so I’m happy for writers like Gwynne to make use of it. And, yes, a plan is in the works for a discussion of The Shadow of the Gods involving multiple BookTubers - to appear not too long after the release of the book. Stay tuned!

[@MacScarfield]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Couldn’t agree more Professor! I look very much forward to that!

[@brush2canvas849]

Something gives me the feeling that this channel will not be good for my bank account.🤔 Maybe because another book went on to the tbr? Also it's really wonderful how medieval literature has already a lot of the narrative techniques that are still used today. Great review!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Sorry about the bank account! 😁 In my opinion, the Icelandic sagas deserve a lot more attention than they get, especially from fantasy fans, who would likely enjoy them.

[@brush2canvas849]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy nothing to be sorry about. As long as the books just stay on the tbr nothing much has happened😉. I think some retellings of the Sagas made it in to fantasy literature (didn't Neil Gaiman write some?). Don't know how the Sagas are doing in translation but for example for German and may be also some English texts of the Middle Ages we might need some new translations to spark some new interest for today's readers.

[@imokin86]

@@brush2canvas849 most of the sagas are available in modern English translation, and there are some older ones, by William Morris for example, who as a writer had an influence on Tolkien.

[@brush2canvas849]

@@imokin86 thanks for the info.

[@matster333]

Can’t wait!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Soon! It’ll definitely be worth the wait!

[@jeremyfee]

When you say Ragnarok, I can't help but hear the song in my head. Ok, now it's stuck in my head. LOL. Now I need to get back to reading The Shadow of the Gods. Peace!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Sorry about the earworm! 😁 Happy reading!

[@iveybullard8988]

Snakavik and the Boneback mountains blew my mind. Im about 160 pages til the end of this book and its fantastic.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Some of the coolest fantasy settings I’ve ever seen!

[@yorick8987]

Sounds like a new series to be read!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I definitely think so!

[@patsmythos]

For newcomers to John Gwynne, would you recommend reading The Faithful and the Fallen before The Shadow of the Gods? I’d love to see his growth as a writer by reading TFatF first, but I preordered TSotG and I’m not sure I can wait long to start it!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I don’t see any reason to hold off on The Shadow of the Gods. There is a definite improvement in writing from Malice to The Shadow of the Gods, and Gwynne strikes me as someone who works consciously on his craft. But you could also see that by reading his latest first and then going back to The Faithful and the Fallen. Either way, I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@BooksWithBenghisKahn]

Wow it's clear that this was a read that was magical for you--I can't wait to dive in to it myself!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll love it!

[@BookishChas]

Thank you for this Philip. I definitely need to read this book. I love Norse mythology and of course you know I love dragons and other monsters haha.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

It’s hard to beat dragons! I hope you’ll enjoy The Shadow of the Gods, Chas!

[@adithyasanthosh8991]

One thing that I love about Faithful and the Fallen is how it takes the classic heroic fantasy template and adds a hell of a lot of texture to it, like Tad Williams. This seems even better, especially with how moody and atmospheric this seems. Great review and I'm hoping John Gwynne really breaks into the mainstream with this

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne certainly deserves huge success for The Shadow of the Gods, and I hope it happens! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@cynthiaholmes5124]

I just requested the first book in the of blood and bone trilogy can't wait to see your review on the first book 😃😆🙂😊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m really looking forward to Of Blood and Bone now! I think I’ll be reading it this summer.

[@AverageJoesLibrary]

Bar had been raised for sure. Definitely excited for more Norse inspired and I think that’s his passion too.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne has really hit his stride in The Shadow of the Gods. His personal investment in Viking history and culture really shows in it.

[@OwenEdwardsBooks]

For almost the opposite level of seriousness in dealing with "Viking legends" (basically the Voluspa), try out Sprague de Camp/Pratt's "The Roaring Trumpet". It's good fun. (I've got a review on my channel.)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks for the recommendation, Owen! Sounds interesting, I’ll try to take a look sometime soon.

[@dcarman686]

I'm 40% finished and it is really god especially Varg and Orka

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Awesome! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it!

[@simonsuarez7561]

Woaw! I'm definitely looking forward to read this one 🤓

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@MrRorosuri]

i can't wait

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I bet you’ll love it!

[@cwesley2005]

This book was so freaking good!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@cwesley2005 Yes! I’m finishing book three now!

[@officernasty6634]

Does one need to read The Faithful and the Fallen series before reading this book?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

There’s no connection to The Faithful and the Fallen, so you can read without having read anything else by Gwynne. If you give it a try, I hope you’ll enjoy it!

[@officernasty6634]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks for the response, Philip!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@officernasty6634 My pleasure!

[@darklingeraeld-ridge7946]

Excellent…. Spot on re the sagas. The closest modern equivalent to them I know is Cecelia Holland’s Two Ravens. Not fantasy, but similarly and brilliantly small scale, terse, fatalistic and simmering.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks for the recommendation! I’ll check out Two Ravens!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Wanted to get my review in the can before I watched. Didn't want it to influence anything I said, ha ha. We seem to be on the same page for most of it.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Excellent! I’ll be on the lookout for your review, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts, Mike! Truth and Courage, my friend!

[@mikesbookreviews]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Though, I should add, our reviews are nothing alike ha ha! I'm going to have to speak Klingon in one of my sci-fi reviews to get on your level. Truth & Courage.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@mikesbookreviews Now that is something I would really look forward to - bring on the Klingon!

[@mikesbookreviews]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Qapla!

[@Mysticblade-n5o]

What are your thoughts on the Witcher books

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’ve read the two short story collections and enjoyed them enough to move on to the novels, hopefully starting Blood of Elves before summer. It was fun getting to know the characters!

[@theserpent6070]

This is definitely one of the upcoming fantasy books I’m most excited for

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I hope you’ll enjoy it - I know I certainly did!

[@theserpent6070]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I imagine I will. It sounds awesome!

[@erina7727]

Exciting!!! 😌

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I definitely think so!

[@patrickvose2536]

John Gwynn has jumped into my top 3 favorite authors. He is 8 for 8 for me!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

5 for 5 for me so far, and soon I’ll be reading Of Blood and Bone!

[@patrickvose2536]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy can’t wait to hear your thoughts. My opinion is it’s better than faithful and the fallen:)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@patrickvose2536 In that case, I’m even more excited for it!

[@zan8152]

So this is probably a hard call bc it sounds like they're pretty different; one is finished the other is not, but - as someone who's way behind and hasn't read *any* Gwynne... start here?

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

You definitely could! There’s no need for you to read the two series in The Banished Lands (The Faithful and the Fallen and Of Blood and Bone) to read The Shadow of the Gods. Of course, those two series are finished, but The Shadow of the Gods is shorter and might help you decide if Gwynne’s writing suits you.

[@zan8152]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy It honestly all sounds great I just need to finally get to it. Great review though, I love the love you have for the very real world mythology inspired stuff

[@jackmckenzie926]

My copy is on its way but I won't be reading until the final book is done.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I understand that! It will be waiting for you at the right time!

[@Danny_Matson]

The hype!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I enjoyed every moment of this one -- I hope you will too, Danny!

[@TheBookish1]

I've recently been reading 'Revival' by Stephen King... I've really not be hooked at all. I think I'll be moving onto Valour now, I need me some John Gwynne goodness!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

I’m sure you’re going to love Valour, but Ruin is where it really leveled up for me. Happy reading, Daniel!

[@GMRayJ36]

Could you tell me if Gwynne (his characters) use foul language or if there are sexually explicit scenes? I only read that kind of stuff. You know, stuff that my kids could read in their early teens (big readers). Thnx!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Gwynne avoids swear words, and there are no sexually explicit scenes on the page. The Bloodsworn Trilogy does include references to sex (referred to as “humping”), but there is nothing that would not be in a PG rated film. There is also violence, which is pretty standard in fantasy. I hope that helps!

[@GMRayJ36]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Outstanding! Thank you, sir, and great spoiler-free review, by the way. Your style and background is wonderful! 👊

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@GMRayJ36 My pleasure, and thank you!

[@fafakyu]

fine ill read it

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! I hope you’ll enjoy it! 😁

[@MrRorosuri]

💕💕💕

[@MatthewLikesToRead]

Unfortunately this book didn't click with me. "Faithful" is one of my favorite fantasy series. I found this book quite slow and confusing with the Norse terms. His writing is fantastic and keeps improving immensely. I think my biggest complaint is that I didn't find the 3 POV characters that interesting. Their motivations were immensely interesting. But their character traits were not for me. They felt like goal machines. Which can be engaging. But I wish I liked them or cared for them more. I wish I liked it more. 😖

[@MatthewLikesToRead]

I think it's mostly me. Seems like most people love the book. 😁👍

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Not every book is going to work for everyone, so no worries! Sometimes I’ve read a book again and liked it much more on my second attempt. Could be my mood or other factors. But sometimes a book just won’t click, and there’s nothing wrong with that. At least you enjoyed The Faithful and the Fallen! One reason I love The Shadow of the Gods so much is because it reminds me of the Icelandic sagas, which are a personal favorite.

[@MatthewLikesToRead]

@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy 😁👍

[@lunacarmin]

Me: I won't fell for the hype. Philip: "this is my very favorite thing John Gwynne has written" Me: **preorders Kindle edition** (Also Petrik's review was also glowing!)

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! I hope you’ll love it! Thanks for watching!

[@tjbwiki]

Your videos are great but you really need to prioritize a microphone 💯

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@kelleyceccato7025]

I had issues with Gwynne's "Malice" because I found it a little too old-fashioned in its depiction of female characters; when the "bad guys" have women soldiers in their ranks while the "good guys" are like "Ewww! Girls fighting! Gross!" that always sits a little ill with me. By contrast, "Shadow of the Gods" features some of the best female characters, as well as depictions of women in general within its world, that I've ever read in modern fantasy.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Shadow of the Gods definitely features not only strong but beautifully realized female characters. In regard to the Banished Lands, it’s possible Gwynne was portraying flaws in a patriarchal culture by having characters react that way to women fighting. He does have “good” women fight later in The Faithful and the Fallen, but it’s not on the same level you see in Shadow of the Gods. I’m glad you liked it!

[@AverageJoesLibrary]

Less POV means less heartbreak when they die 😂😭

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Ha ha! Don’t count on it! 😄