John Gwynne Books In Order

Publication Order of The Faithful and the Fallen Books

Publication Order of Blood & Bone Books

Publication Order of The Bloodsworn Saga Books

Publication Order of Tales of the Apt Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

Born in Singapore, John Gwynne is an England based author who was used to traveling a lot as a child. This was due to his father’s position in the RAF. Now, however, his life has established a certain level of stability for him as he is happily married and settled in East Sussex with his wife, four children, and three dogs. In all these years he has held a wide variety of exciting and unbelievable jobs. These range from packing soap at a factory to being a lecturer at Brighton University. Somewhere in the middle of that, he even managed to waiter at a restaurant in Canada.
Eventually, however, due to his daughter’s disability, things had to change. He ended up quitting his job at the University in order to take care of her, which meant staying at home a lot. This resulted in him and his wife working with rejuvenating vintage furniture when they weren’t taking care of their daughter. It involved plenty of manual labor on Gwynne’s part, and helped sustain the family for the time being. However, while this was his wife, Caroline’s passion, it clearly was not his own. Yet, he went along with it for a while. But at the end of the day he enjoyed the geekier side of life. As a result, he turned to his favorite authors for inspiration. J. R. R. Tolkien, Bernard Cornwell, and G. R. R. Martin came to his rescue in the form of ideas and imagination. He penned down the stories that took form in his mind, yet never considered the possibility of becoming a published author. Eventually, however, things changed, and today he has established his place among many of the popular authors from across the world. The influence of his favorite writers is evident in the plot structure and story line of his first series, ‘The Faithful and the Fallen’.
Thus, an average dad with a knack for bedtime stories, Gwynne tapped into his imagination to make a hugely successful debut in 2012.

The series is a fast-paced fantasy work which was widely acclaimed by many. These have been published through Tor UK/Panmacmillan as well as Orbit Books. Although fairly recent, their popularity has called for publishing a number of editions of each book. ‘Malice’, the first in the series, was given the David Gemmell Morningstar Award in 2013 in the category of the Best Fantasy debut novel. It follows the protagonist, a young boy called Corban, as he walks the path of becoming the warrior he always wanted to be. Along the way, however, he learns the terrifying price of true courage while losing those he loved and cherished. The novel also includes intersecting plot lines following the various other characters within. Filled with giants, pirates, battles, and much more, it brings to life a dark and exciting world of science fiction and political intrigue. Prophecies guide the actions of many, as the Kings forge alliances with one another in an attempt to fend off the the oncoming danger. A war to end all wars, this novel sets the tone of the series while keeping the reader hooked to every word.

‘Valor’, the second in the series, was released in 2013. It pushes the tale forward. Quick paced and well thought out, it won worldwide acclaim. It introduces new characters while elucidating on the struggles of each. Corban, believed to be the Bright Star, strives to live up to all the expectations placed upon him as he embarks on his journey. It shows the inner politics between a King and his Queen, all the while depicting the picture of destruction as a holy crusade is launched by the High King Nathair against all those who stand in his way. Cywen is yet another character introduced in this intricate web of words, as the novel immerses the reader into a fantastic universe filled with danger, adventure, and an imminent war coming closer with each page.

The third in the series is called ‘Ruin’. It was released in 2015, and has not disappointed the fans in the least – instead, it was every bit as gripping as the previous two works. It bringing the entire story to a head as the prophecy comes close to fulfillment. With chaos at its peak, there is excitement in every moment, and the author has succeeded in keeping the readers’ at the edge of their seats throughout. Brimming with adventure, there are vital decisions to be made, ones that could seal the fate of the entire world. It is also at this time that the tone is set for the final battle upon which rest the fate of the Banished Lands.

Each of the books is beautifully written, and well structured, thereby bringing the words to life. With wonderful character development, the protagonists and antagonists are well rounded and revels in the gray area. Instead of being confined to being black or white (evil or good), the novel depicts a more realistic representation of each. Furthermore, there is a whole host of characters coming from diverse backgrounds which helps draw the readers in. Because of this, the series and the author have given rise to a strong following of fans. Just as Bernard Cornwell and G. R. R. Martin have succeeded in capturing the hearts and minds of thousands, Gwynne too has left his mark within the Sci-Fi universe. Adding to the category of well-written science fiction fantasy, he has created enthralling literature guaranteed to keep any reader occupied.
This series has proven to be a major success among readers from across the world, but Gwynne has also been involved in various other projects.

The multi-talented author has contributed to ‘Blackguards: Tales of Assassins, Mercenaries, and Rogues’, as well as ‘Legends II: Stories in Honor of David Gimmell’, earning a place alongside various other celebrated names of today. His writing style has been applauded by many for its staunchly grim perspective and keen wit. Today, in a world made smaller by technology, Gwynne has been widely recognized and praised for his knack of writing.

3 Responses to “John Gwynne”

1. Bill Smith: 7 months ago

   I stumbled onto The Shadow of the Gods and once I started, I was in. I recently finished The Hunger of the Gods. T When will the thrid book of the trilogy be released. If if has already been released, I apologize for the question. I cannot find it anywhere. This is a great series. I am starting Malice next. Thank you for the great reads, you have quickly become one of my favorite authors.

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2. BRIAN SWART: 1 year ago

   I have searched and read so many books by so many authors in a search to replace my absolute favourite author David Gemmell who sadly passed away several years ago. It is with great delight that I have been able to find John Gwynne who has captivated my imagination with splendid and in depth works of pure creative writing. My thanks to John who has certainly gained a new fan.

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3. Stephen Bray: 1 year ago

   I cannot thank you enough. I truly hope I never have to set down and not have something you have written in my hands. Your books captivate my mind and pull at my heart. I am overwhelmed. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking me on this journey 🙏

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