Malice
"Malice" is the first book in The Faithful and the Fallen series by John Gwynne, a captivating epic fantasy that introduces readers to a world in the midst of turmoil. The story is set in the kingdom of the Banished Lands, where an ancient prophecy foretells a final battle between the forces of good and evil. The book follows several key characters as they navigate their way through this war-torn landscape, including Corban, a young man who dreams of becoming a warrior, and his close friends who are all bound by destiny. As the forces of darkness, led by the mysterious and dangerous Black Knight, rise to threaten the land, Corban and his allies find themselves caught in a web of conflict, betrayal, and moral choices. Meanwhile, powerful warriors, gods, and mythical creatures play key roles in the shaping of the fate of the Banished Lands.
"Malice" is a fantastic opening to The Faithful and the Fallen series and an excellent read for fans of traditional epic fantasy. John Gwynne’s writing is immersive, building a rich and detailed world that feels alive with history, magic, and conflict. The land of the Banished Lands is intricately designed, with various cultures, gods, and political dynamics that add depth to the story. The world-building is thorough without being overwhelming, and Gwynne expertly introduces readers to the key factions and characters while slowly expanding the scope of the world.
At the heart of "Malice" is its well-drawn cast of characters. Corban, the protagonist, starts off as a relatable and somewhat naive young man, but his journey of growth and discovery is compelling. As he faces hardships and makes difficult decisions, his transformation from a hopeful dreamer to a seasoned warrior is one of the highlights of the book. The supporting characters, including the fierce warrior Veldara and the morally conflicted Dath, also add richness to the story, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journeys. The character development is one of the book's strengths, with each character evolving in meaningful ways as they grapple with their roles in the larger conflict.
The book’s pacing is well-handled, with action sequences that are thrilling and well-written, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Gwynne excels at crafting gripping battle scenes, from personal duels to grand, sweeping conflicts. Alongside these action-packed moments, the story also allows space for quieter, more introspective moments that focus on the characters’ emotions and dilemmas. These moments of reflection deepen the reader’s connection to the characters and enhance the overall emotional weight of the story.
What truly sets Malice apart is its blend of high fantasy elements with a sense of realism. There are no simple "good vs. evil" narratives here—many of the characters must grapple with complex choices and moral dilemmas that reflect the gray areas of human nature. This complexity elevates the story beyond traditional fantasy tropes, creating a world that feels believable, with characters who are multifaceted and relatable.
While "Malice" certainly follows familiar epic fantasy beats—prophecies, great wars, ancient forces of darkness—Gwynne’s storytelling keeps it fresh. His world is filled with mystery and intrigue, and the various plotlines intersect in intriguing ways that promise even greater complexity as the series progresses.
I highly recommend "Malice" to readers who enjoy epic fantasy with a strong focus on character development, action, and a rich, immersive world. If you love books that feature complex protagonists, high-stakes conflicts, and morally nuanced characters, "Malice" is a must-read. While it may not reinvent the genre, it is a highly satisfying and engaging start to a series that promises much more in the books to follow. The pacing, character arcs, and world-building make it an excellent introduction to The Faithful and the Fallen series, and fans of authors like Brandon Sanderson, Joe Abercrombie, and David Gemmell will likely find Gwynne’s storytelling a perfect fit.