““We all fear, Ban. Even Tull. It’s what we do about it-that’s the important thing. That’s what’ll make you the man you grow into. You must learn to control your emotions, boy. Those that don’t do that often end up dead: anger, fear, pride, whatever. If your emotions control you, sooner or later you’re a dead man… Learn to control them and they can be a tool that makes you stronger.””
What is the Book about?
Where the Forsaken Lands stretch, blood once stained the world red. Where ancient ruins now stand, humans once vanquished giants. Where only the howling of wolves can be heard, the world burned thousands of years ago.
But for too long, mankind has basked in false security. Now the giant stones weep blood, and in the Forsaken Lands, something stirs once more—something that should have been banished forever. An ancient enemy has long forged an alliance and waits for the hour to strike. And only one can stop him when the Black Sun enters the world…
Rating
Plot ★★★★☆
Characters ★★★★★
World Building ★★★★★
Atmosphere ★★★★★
Writing Style ★★★★☆
Favourite Character
Cywen, Kastell, Corban
My thoughts while reading it
There are books that quietly capture your heart, and then there are books like Malice by John Gwynne, which seize it with both hands and refuse to let go. This stunning debut and first entry in The Faithful and the Fallen series is a masterful introduction to a sweeping epic that feels both timeless and fresh, combining the best elements of classic fantasy with Gwynne’s own heartfelt touch. At first glance, the story seems to follow a familiar path: an ancient prophecy, the looming return of an old war, and the clash of light and darkness. But as the tale unfolds, it becomes clear that Malice is far from simple. The moral lines blur, and the stakes become deeply personal, transforming the narrative into something far richer and more intricate. Gwynne takes the foundation of a classic good versus evil story and builds upon it with such care and creativity that it feels new, alive, and undeniably his own.
The Banished Lands, with its deep scars from the long-ago God War, serves as the backdrop for the story. A prophecy warns of its return, setting the stage for alliances to form and fracture, as some seek to avert the devastation while others embrace it. What struck me immediately was Gwynne’s ability to create a world that feels both vast and intimate. The rich history, the legends woven into daily life, and the tangible presence of past conflicts create a setting that feels real and immersive. Yet Gwynne doesn’t let the world-building overshadow the heart of the story: its characters.
Corban, the young blacksmith’s son, anchors the narrative with his journey from a boy full of dreams and insecurities to someone beginning to grasp his place in the world. His story is the essence of a coming-of-age tale, and Gwynne captures every moment of it with sincerity and nuance. Corban’s fears, hopes, and relationships make him not just a protagonist, but someone you come to care about deeply. His sister, Cywen, is equally compelling. Her tenacity and sharp wit complement Corban’s earnestness, and their bond is one of the most touching aspects of the book. Through their sibling relationship, Gwynne beautifully portrays the warmth and strength of family. Gar, their mentor and protector, adds another layer to their journey. His wisdom, patience, and strength make him a guiding presence in their lives, and his role is essential to their growth. Adding to the richness of the story is Gwynne’s inclusion of animals as integral parts of the narrative. Wolves, horses, and ravens, among others, aren’t just background elements; they play pivotal roles that enhance the story’s depth and emotional impact. These animals reflect the bond between humans and nature in the Banished Lands and add a layer of symbolism and connection that feels deeply ingrained in the world. Then there’s Kastell, whose arc is another standout of the book. His struggles with loyalty, betrayal, and the emotional scars left by his cruel cousin make him one of the most human and relatable characters in the story. His aloof and guarded nature is a defense mechanism born of hardship, and it’s this complexity that makes him so compelling. His resilience and the way he slowly lets down his guard, particularly in his relationship with Maquin, exemplify Gwynne’s ability to write characters that feel real and nuanced.
The pacing of Malice may feel slow at first, as it takes the time to establish its world and characters. However, this deliberate approach is a strength, allowing the reader to become fully invested in the stakes and the people at the heart of the story. The early chapters focus on character development and world-building, but there are plenty of action sequences sprinkled throughout to maintain momentum. And when the climax arrives, the payoff is immense. The last quarter of the book is a whirlwind of high-stakes battles and revelations, delivering an intense and satisfying conclusion. Speaking of battles, Gwynne’s descriptions of combat are a masterclass in visual storytelling. Each fight is meticulously detailed, pulling you into the chaos and brutality of the battlefield. Yet the action never feels gratuitous; it’s always grounded in the characters and their struggles. These scenes are as much about the people fighting as they are about the battles themselves, making them both thrilling and deeply moving.
What sets Malice apart is its emotional resonance. Gwynne allows key moments to breathe, giving them the space to settle in the reader’s heart. Whether it’s a quiet conversation, a devastating loss, or a moment of triumph, these scenes are imbued with sincerity and weight. The themes of loyalty, bravery, and the bonds that tie us together run through every chapter, making the story not just an epic but a profoundly human one. By the time I reached the end of Malice, I was utterly hooked. The conclusion was executed to perfection, tying together the threads of the story while leaving just enough unanswered to make me desperate to start the next book. I couldn’t wait to dive back into the Banished Lands and see where Gwynne would take the story next.
Malice is a book that feels like a love letter to classic fantasy while carving out its own unique place in the genre. With its unforgettable characters, richly imagined world, and the perfect balance of action and heart, it’s a story that lingers. For fans of epic fantasy, this is a must-read. I can’t wait to see where Gwynne takes the story next, but I have no doubt it will be extraordinary.
Reading Recommendation? ✓
Favourite? ✓
The Reading Stray 