Ruin
"Ruin" is the third book in The Faithful and the Fallen series by John Gwynne, continuing the epic struggle between the forces of good and evil in the Banished Lands. As the war intensifies, alliances shift and betrayals abound, with the fates of kingdoms hanging in the balance. Corban, now a seasoned warrior, faces even greater trials as he leads his forces into battle, but the personal cost of the war weighs heavily on him. The Black Knight’s army grows ever stronger, and the dark powers that threaten the land seem closer than ever to victory. With gods, mythical creatures, and long-forgotten secrets emerging into the light, Ruin reveals the true depth of the conflict, pushing all of the characters toward the ultimate test of their honor, loyalty, and courage. As the stakes rise, the characters must confront not only the external forces of darkness but the inner demons that threaten to tear them apart.
"Ruin" is a spectacular continuation of The Faithful and the Fallen series, blending intricate character development, intense action, and deep emotional stakes to create a gripping read. John Gwynne excels at building on the foundation laid in Malice and Valor, offering a more complex and emotionally charged narrative that will have readers hooked from start to finish.
The book delves deeper into the characters’ personal struggles, particularly Corban, who continues to grow as both a warrior and a leader. The emotional weight of his decisions is felt throughout the book as he faces the consequences of war and the sacrifices required of him. His journey, from a young and uncertain hero to someone grappling with the brutal realities of battle, is one of the most compelling aspects of Ruin. Gwynne’s portrayal of Corban’s internal conflict makes his development feel earned, and the stakes for his character feel incredibly high.
The supporting characters are just as well-developed. Veldara, Dath, and the others each face their own challenges, and their personal journeys are as riveting as the external conflict. The dynamics between the characters—whether they are allies or enemies—are rich with tension, making every interaction meaningful. Gwynne also does a fantastic job of exploring the theme of loyalty and sacrifice, showing how each character is forced to make difficult choices that impact not only their own futures but the fate of the world around them.
One of the standout features of Ruin is its action sequences. Gwynne crafts some of the most intense and brutal battles in the series, and the stakes feel particularly high as the characters fight not only for survival but for the future of the Banished Lands. The battle scenes are thrilling, with vivid descriptions that draw readers into the heart of the conflict. But it's not just about the physical battles; Gwynne also focuses on the emotional and psychological toll that war takes on his characters, and this emotional depth elevates the action, making it resonate more strongly with the reader.
The world-building continues to be a highlight in Ruin, as Gwynne further explores the myths, gods, and ancient powers that shape the Banished Lands. The magic system becomes more prominent, and the mysteries that have been teased in earlier books start to come into clearer focus. The way Gwynne balances these fantastical elements with the personal stories of the characters is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The world feels rich and lived-in, and the stakes of the conflict become more dire as the dark forces led by the Black Knight begin to close in.
"Ruin" is also a book about the cost of power, the price of leadership, and the nature of good versus evil. It explores the gray areas of morality in a way that feels fresh and realistic. No character is purely good or evil, and Gwynne’s exploration of these moral complexities adds layers of depth to the narrative.
I highly recommend "Ruin" to fans of epic fantasy who appreciate character-driven stories, intense action, and world-building that feels both immersive and meaningful. If you enjoyed Malice and Valor, "Ruin" will not disappoint. It deepens the stakes of the series while offering satisfying character growth and emotionally charged moments. While the book is action-packed, it is the emotional resonance and the depth of the characters that truly make it stand out. If you’re a fan of authors like Joe Abercrombie, Brandon Sanderson, or David Gemmell, Ruin is an excellent read that will satisfy your craving for a high-stakes, character-driven fantasy saga. It’s an epic continuation of The Faithful and the Fallen series, and it sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable conclusion.