Compared to David Gemmell and George R. R Martin, John Gwynne's first novel Malice was called a 'Hell of a debut' by bestselling author Conn Iggulden and shortlisted for the Gemmell award for best debut novel. The story continues in his second novel, Valour.
The Banished Lands are torn by war as the army of High King Nathair sweeps the realm challenging all who oppose his holy crusade. Allied with the manipulative Queen Rhin of Cambren, there are few who can stand against him.
Meanwhile, the young warrior Corban flees from his conquered homeland with his exiled companions, heading for the only place that may offer them sanctuary. But to get there they must travel through Cambren, avoiding warbands, giants and the vicious wolven of the mountains. And all the while Corban struggles to become the man that everyone believes him to be - the Bright Star and saviour of the Banished Lands.
Embroiled in struggles for power and survival, the mortal world is unaware of the greatest threat of all. In the Otherworld, dark forces scheme to bring a host of the Fallen into the world of flesh to end the war with the Faithful, once and for all.
Praise for Malice
WINNER OF THE DAVID GEMMELL MORNINGSTAR AWARD FOR BEST DEBUT FANTASY NOVEL
'Influenced by Gemmell's Rigante and George R.R. Martin's Game of Thrones - two good strands of DNA. Great characters and plot - it gets faster and more fascinating by the page . . . Hell of a debut: Highly recommended'
Conn Iggulden
'With its warring clans, sleeping giants, Banished Lands and omens and portents . . . is a strong contender for the "if you like Game of Thrones, why not try this?" award'
Independent
