Reviewed: September 6th, 2022
Released: March 17th, 2021
Genre: Epic/Medieval Fantasy
Born in fire. Tempered in blood.
Epheria is a land divided by war and mistrust. The High Lords of the South squabble and fight, only kept in check by the Dragonguard, traitors of a time long past, who serve the empire of the North.
In the remote villages of southern Epheria, still reeling from the tragic loss of his brother, Calen Bryer prepares for The Proving – a test of courage and skill that not all survive.
But when three strangers arrive in the village of Milltown, with a secret they are willing to die for, Calen’s world is ripped from under him and he is thrust headfirst into a war that has been raging for centuries.
There is no prophecy. His coming was not foretold. He bleeds like any man, and bleed he will.
Helen’s thoughts: 5/5
Thoroughly enjoyable start to a new epic fantasy series. Cahill writes an immersive story which weaves its way through vibrant and detailed cities and forests. From the smell of the loam, to the towering spires and penants you are drawn into the complex world of man, elves and magical beings.
The story starts in typical epic tale style, with three boys about to prove themselves men, facing known and unknown challenges. But their success doesn’t last long as they drawn into a war that has been raging for centuries. The tale does have a Wheel of Time feel as the three are tested and powers revealed.
My favorite part is the dragon egg and the adorable dragon that eventually emerges.
This tale rattles along, through many fights, battles and a lot of dead bodies, proving these lads are more than capable of facing whatever is to come.
Ella’s part in the tale runs parallel to her brother’s and is just as fraught with anguish and terror. I look forward to see her proving and how she develops in later books.
All in all a really good read. Highly recommended.
About the author:
Ryan Cahill is an epic Fantasy author from Dublin, Ireland.
Raised by parents who cherished books and adored stories, he has always been fascinated with the art of storytelling.
Growing up with authors such as J.K.Rowling, Terry Prachett and J.R.R. Tolkien – before discovering the worlds of George R.R.Martin, Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson – Ryan was always immersed in the art of worldbuilding. In the creation of a world that could transport you to a place in your mind where nothing else could ever reach you.
There are three things Ryan has always told himself about writing. Write the books you want to read. Write the books that your younger self would be proud of you for reading. Make sure they have dragons.
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If you enjoy fantasy books then you will love my epic fantasy Sentinal series. As a new threat against Remargaren is discovered, only one man can wake the ancient guards who can protect them, only he doesn’t know how. Start the adventure and stay for the journey. Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Helen Garraway 