From the first chapter, I was hooked. Returning to this world after The Covenant of Steel series was so pleasant!

I love the way Anthony Ryan balances wit with darkness, it's part of the reason I loved The Covenant of Steel trilogy so well, and this book falls right in line. I will 100% be continuing this series and recommending it to all my fantasy and Norse Mythology-loving friends!

The characters, the action, and the adventure were top notch! I can't wait to see what happens next.

Note: While I don't think it is 100% necessary to read The Covenant of Steel series first, I do think I would recommend it for the full understanding of a few character and event references.

Anthony Ryan has delivered another banger. Excellently written battle scenes and a visceral, dirty, flesh and blood world for the story to take place in. It's also nice to see him tackle another multi-POV story, and good lord that ending makes me wish I had the next book in hand this very second.

Tendré que esperar a que salga el tercer libro para continuar con la lectura y para releer ATOBS porque pasan tantas cosas que en definitiva olvídare detalles importantes.


Mitología nordica✔️
Magia✔️
Piratas✔️
Vikingos ✔️



El libro está narrado por cuatro personas, Ruhlin, Thera, Felnir y Elvine, lo cual es perfecto porque se tiene una perspectiva más detallada de su mundo, de la problemática, de la personalidad de cada personaje y te permite entender mejor la historia.

Al principio parece que estos cuatro no tienen nada en común, es más ni siquiera pertenecen a los mismos círculos, no son vecinos y no dedican a lo mismo, pero conforme avanzan los capítulos se van viendo esos pequeños hilos del destino.

No diré más porque siento que es una historia que merece la pena leerla sin tener ningún tipo de conocimiento sobre ella.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Game of thrones meets Vikings. I loved this book. The writing was compelling and exciting. I honestly had no idea what was going to happen from chapter to chapter. The action was intense, the humor was perfect and dark, and the emotions were impactful. The magic system was subtle and didn’t take over. Anthony Ryan never misses and this just further proves it.

The character names were a bit much but that’s the most minor of complaints. I need more of this series immediately

Another great book by Anthony Ryan. I enjoyed the Covenant of Steel series and was excited to explore more of this finely crafted world. I found it to be a bit slower moving than some of his other books. I would likely recommend readers start with the Covenant of Steel Trilogy before moving onto this, as I think my connection to the world made it more enjoyable. With that being said, you can definitely enjoy the novel as a separate story. A great pick for fans of John Gwynne.

A new, engaging beginning in a Viking saga! I absolutely love getting to read and immerse myself in the journey of Norse inspired fiction, and I feel blessed that Ryan has set up such a fantastic, riveting world to explore. The pacing was fast and furious with dark gritty battle scenes drowning in blood and gore. But as a reader who holds grim dark fantasy close to my heart it was exactly what I wanted. I enjoyed getting to meet all the characters and can't wait to see where the series takes us next. Anything Viking related and I'm in; but I trust Anthony Ryan to guide us on our way.

Thanks again to NetGalley, Anthony Ryan and Orbit for the advanced copy of this book!

Immerse yourself in the violent, bloodthirsty, and bitingly cunning first novel A Tide of Black Steel in the Age of Wrath series by Anthony Ryan.

The first novel in a brand new trilogy aptly dubbed Age of Wrath, kicks off with A Tide of Black Steel. This new series is set in the same world as Ryan’s fantastic grimdark Covenant of Steel trilogy. Set a few decades after the events of the conclusion of The Traitor, A Tide of Black Steel focuses on the Ascarlian people, undisputedly ruled with an iron fist by the Sister Queens for centuries. Until now.

When a mysterious rival force emerges at the islands and inflicts wanton violence, decimating entire villages of the Ascarlian people, the Sister Queens’ rule is called into question. The Age of Wrath is now upon us!

A Tide of Black Steel is presented to us through five different POV characters, each bringing their flavor to add to the overall grittiness of the world. The siblings Thera Blackspear and Felnir Redtooth could not be more different from each other, Thera being the blade of the Sister Queens, with cold fury enforcing the Queen’s Justice across the kingdoms. In contrast, her brother, Felnir sticks to the shadows. A pirate mercenary with a dark checkered past, he is bound into service to the Queens, albeit from the shadows of their spy network. We also have Ruhlin, introduced as a cowardly fisherman, but possesses magical blood, which triggered by rage changes him into a feral berserker with near invulnerable skin and inhuman strength and maniacal ferocity. Rounding out the characters is the young scribe Elvine, who pursues her own Covenant faith in secret, is drawn into the intrigue and set on a quest with Felnir, testing her faith, resolve, and intellect.

A Tide of Black Steel is unapologetic in its dark grit. There is plenty of blood and gore, violence both physical, mental, and emotional, with plenty of action both in your face and from the shadows. Each character brings an almost self-contained tale of their own with many fleshed-out side characters, locations, and action set pieces. While, Felnir and Elvine are in the same adventure party, having individual POV chapters allows us to delve into their character arcs more, and the events are deeper and more rewarding because of it. Their path crosses with Felnir’s sister Thera, however briefly, but even with minimal interactions and time spent together, Ryan creates enough intrigue that the reader involuntarily fills in the gaps with their headcanon about events before the story. Very few authors can create compelling characters in their own right, and fewer that enrich each other giving both their arcs and the overall plot more depth. In contrast, Ruhlin’s tale, while disjointed from the others, has its ups and downs. A novel with heavy Norse parallels with a berserker character would be easy to stereotype, but Ryan gives Ruhlin’s arc a unique twist, with yet another cast of engaging side characters with their mystique.

The pacing of the novel is gripping yet gives us time to breathe and look around as the characters travel between locations, with plenty of action setpieces which feel like side-quests in a videogame. I thoroughly enjoyed the references to the events in Covenant of Steel trilogy and particularly liked that those events are considered historical texts in this new series. While the Ascarlians have a minor role to play in that series, they are front and center in this series, and the choice to set a new series from their perspective is a thing of genius. While some of the tie-ins with the Covenant series veered toward cheesily heavy-handed, these elements check all my boxes for a great book. I found myself constantly engaged with the individual plotlines, and more importantly, the characters develop and navigate their way towards bigger plot checkpoints.

My only gripe with A Tide of Black Steel is that it does not set up an overarching series plot from the get-go. Even a third into the book, I found myself asking “This is extremely cool, but what is this book about?”. While other first entries in trilogies set up their worldplot in the first few chapters, A Tide of Black Steel goes the route of allowing smaller plotlines to take precedence and let the big picture slowly coalesce. While Covenant of Steel was quicker to establish the grand plot, the smaller sections and the excellent worldbuilding and character work made that series a must-read. In a similar vein, while I don't think the major plotline of a rival, big bad ancient Ascarlian force invading the lands of the Sister Queens is a very new or unique idea, I believe that it is the character work and the minor plot beats that will make Age of Wrath a series to be added to the grimdark greats.

I am an ardent GrimDark fanatic, and anything Norse-themed is an easy sell. Along with the Bloodsworn series (John Gwynne), we truly are spoiled by Norsedark books! Even so, A Tide of Black Steel could have fallen flat in the hands of a different author. Anthony Ryan hit a home run with this book, and has skyrocketed to among my favorites this year. I cannot wait to see the winding road paved with righteous violence this series takes. If this novel is anything to go by, it will be tons of blood and fun. Sign me up!

With visceral action, clever treachery, and daring quests, A Tide of Black Steel is a dark, Viking-inspired fantasy sure to please most fantasy fans even if it’s served up as an appetizer to set the stage for the rest of the trilogy.

Like the best fantasy, reading A Tide of Black Steel feels like stepping into another world. Inspired by Vikings, the world-building is familiar yet also fully its own thanks to rich historical and cultural detail that goes beyond being simply aesthetic to one where the characters behave in ways foreign to our own world. A very large cast of unique (including four POV) yet relatable characters from every corner of the fantasy world completes the immersion (even if some are less developed than others). Matched by quick-pacing and unpredictable if not shocking plotting (some of the twists are fore-shadowed enough to be dread inducing rather than surprising), A Tide of Black Steel is always enjoyable to read.

It's also just enjoyable how varied the novel is. Most fantasy novels consist broadly of fighting, politics, and questing, usually focusing on one or two. A Tide of Black Steel gives significant time to each (with a smidge of romance), doing each equally well, and it feels a bit like being spoiled in the best sense. It is a bit of a double-edged sword though, with switches between the different POV characters at times sapping their individual momentum.

The novel’s only significant weakness is that it doesn’t stand alone as its own story, but rather serves as a lead-in for the trilogy. This is bad for two reasons: (1) Many of the scenes feel only important in that they lead to more important scenes and are not momentous in and of themselves. They are enjoyable, but don’t make it hard to put the book down. (2) Thanks to not one, but multiple cliff-hangers, I have to wait an unbearably long time for the sequel.

(A note on reading order: I haven’t read the Covenant of Steel, the first series set in this world, so I can confirm that you can jump straight into this new series without a hitch. On the flipside, I belatedly realized, thanks to research, that this novel gives away the ending of the Covenant of Steel. So, you should read it first if you plan to.)

Anthony's books are wonderfully written and engaging and this one is no exception. I love the Norse mythology backdrop to this new series and I wasn't aware before reading this that it's set in the same world as the Covenant of Steel series but that's just a plus to me. I will fully admit that there were points where I was a little bored but that could definitely be my mood and no fault of the story. I will also say that I had a notebook next to me when starting this one to write down all of the names and places so that I could keep them all straight. I prefer when new characters are added as the story progresses and not a ton of new information at the start of the book so that was a bit of a turn off at first but I eventually got comfortable with the names and characters. The

In a nutshell, this one was well done, the story is good and I'll likely continue with the series. If you are a fan of John Gwynne's Bloodsworn Saga, this book will give you a similar feel but not so similar as to be a repeat.

Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

"Fight for gain, if you must. Fight for renown, if it pleases you. But the greatest glory is only to be found in fighting for your people."

A classic epic fantasy book inspired by Norse mythology! This story was an absolute joy to read. It was magical, dark and the characters were incredible. The pacing felt a bit slow at the beginning, but I could tell this book is really setting the stage for what's to come and I'm already excited for the next book to be released!

From immediately going down a googling rabbit hole, I found that The Pariah (Covenant of Steel series) is set in the same world I've been seeing this series around so maybe I'll have to dig into that in the meantime.

Thanks again to NetGalley, Anthony Ryan and Orbit for the advanced copy of this book!

Anthony Ryan did it again!! This masterpiece had amazing story even better characters and a world that you can live in. I need more in this universe right now! Do yourself a favor and go buy this today!

Anthony Ryan’s A Tide of Black Steel exceeded my expectations for what a grand fantasy novel should be. Despite being told from the perspectives of multiple characters—a narrative technique that can sometimes feel distracting—Ryan handles the character switches masterfully. Each chapter is lengthy enough to allow plenty of development and action, making the transitions smooth and engaging. Although the connection between the different storylines was initially challenging to piece together, the anticipation of seeing these characters' paths converge kept the story compelling.

Plot and Structure:
The plot is intricately woven through themes of political intrigue, honor, and sacrifice. Ryan expertly balances these elements, creating a narrative that is both complex and coherent. The structure of the book is logical, and while the climaxes lead to resolutions, some were pleasantly surprising and shocking, adding to the overall enjoyment of the story.

Character Analysis:
The character dynamics between Thera and Lynnea were among the most exciting and intriguing aspects of the book. Their unique origins and complementary skills make them a formidable pair, and their understanding of each other’s intentions adds depth to their partnership. Elvine is another standout character; her journey from her beginnings in the Covenant to her critical role in the story's conclusion is both compelling and satisfying.

Ruhlin's character arc is a powerful exploration of balance, sacrifice, and identity. His internal struggle with his "fire blood" and the burden of being called to something beyond his mortal nature is portrayed with nuance and depth. Radylf, on the other hand, represents the theme of freedom versus enslavement. Although he is technically free, he is as bound by his circumstances and obligations as the other characters, making him a complex and tragic figure.

Themes:
The book delves deeply into themes of sacrifice, honor, pride, betrayal, personal ambition, power, control, identity, and loyalty. Characters constantly balance their outward goals with their true thoughts, often hidden beneath layers of manipulation and secrecy. While some themes are more subtle, they all leave a lasting impact, resonating long after the book is finished. These themes, though set in a fantasy world, are timeless and relevant, echoing the complexities of the modern world.

World-Building:
Ryan’s world-building is immersive and well-developed. Although the fantasy names of people and places can be challenging at first, the world feels whole and vividly depicted. The nature of the world and its intricacies are gradually revealed, creating a clear and engaging picture that pulls the reader into the story.

Writing Style:
Ryan’s writing style is engaging, maintaining a steady pace throughout the book. Unlike some fantasy novels that can become long-winded, Ryan strikes the perfect balance between description and action, keeping the story moving while allowing room for the reader's imagination. His ability to leave certain elements to the imagination adds an additional layer of engagement.

Final Thoughts:
The Tide of Black Steel is poised to be a hit within the fantasy community, offering a rich and accessible narrative that can draw in a wide audience. While the book is complex enough to satisfy seasoned fantasy readers, it is also accessible enough for those new to the genre. If you’re on the fence or usually steer clear of fantasy, this novel is a great entry point—it’s just that good.

Thanks to NetGalley and Orbit for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This is a fun intro to a new trilogy by Anthony Ryan. Book has tie ins to Norse mythology, but I really appreciated the world building. Good number of characters built well that I feel are set up for a lot in the next two books. I really enjoyed this read, which was my first by Ryan. I plan to go back and read Covenant of Steel now as I really enjoyed this. But if you like Norse inspired seafaring voyages, this book is definitely for you. I really enjoyed following the main POV characters through their adventures. Think I’m most excited to see what happens with Felnir. Also thought the ending was extremely satisfying as an ending, but feel like it also set up next books. But bottom line, I recommend it. 5 stars. Thanks NetGalley and Orbit Books for the ARC

Thank you Netgalley and Orbit for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is another amazing story told by Anthony Ryan. Covenant of Steel is one of my favorite series of all time, and I was thrilled to death to learn of another series being written in the same world. Do you need to read Covenant of Steel before reading this series? Not necessarily but I would recommend it. You can still enjoy this story without having read Covenant of Steel, but you would enjoy the story more if you did. There are references to events that happened in Covenant of Steel as well as references and appearances of characters from the series. Having read Covenant of Steel provides more depth and insight into the world but as I mentioned you can still enjoy the story without having read it.

This story does take place in a different location from Covenant of Steel. This is the land of Ascarlia rather than Albermaine. This land is ruled by the Sister Queens but there is a new threat looming against them.

Unlike Covenant of Steel, this story follows four different point-of-views. Thera, Felnir, Ruhlin, and Elvine. I honestly enjoyed all the point-of-views. They are all connected together in the story but they each have different objectives and goals to follow.

Thera is a servant of the Sister Queens and she is given a mission to find out about the new threat that is facing Ascarlia. Islands are being invaded and massacred and it is her job to learn what is happening and why.

Her brother, Felnir is given his own mission to find the Vault of the Altvar during which he uncovers additional secrets.

Elvine is a young scholar who is thrown into the adventure with Felnir, but she has her own objectives to follow.

Ruhlin is a prisoner of the new threat to Ascarlia and he must learn to fight and tame the beast that is inside of him.

Each of these characters are unique and I enjoyed getting to read their point-of-views. While the book had me hooked the whole time, the last 70% really captured my attention. Secrets started to get revealed, plots started to unfold and the lore of the world became fascinating.

The ending of the book felt like an ending and a beginning (almost like this book is just the prologue). Each story line ended in some manner but the person’s journey is just beginning. I cannot wait for the next book, let alone for this series to be complete. There are so many great plots happening in this story and the lore of this world is fascinating. I cannot wait to see what else is revealed.

Do I recommend this?? Of Course!! Now go read Covenant of Steel before this releases and be sure to grab a copy of this book when it comes out!

This is a book I wanted to like more than I did. First, ther ewas the writing, which is in many placed florid, rich in adverbs and purple in style. — so much so that it feels stilted and unnatural. An invader “concocts an impression of some unassailable monster.” Thera’s “soft spoken interjection staunched Kolsy’s invective with ease.” The focus on such … deliberate phrasing is distracting, especially when there are smoother, less forced phrases, metaphors and similes that really do work, like: “Thera’s words, although softly spoken, cut through the Veilwald’s burgeoning rant with the ease of a blade parting rotted timber.”

Once I got into the style (and, just as the book moved on the writing smoothed out and became less overworked), it flowed better. The pace is good, giving us just enough time in each character’s POV to let us get a feel for their world and the situation they’re put into before heading to the next: The orphan who goes into rages, the obedient and violent servant of the Sister Queens, the young academic discovering secrets, and the brothers (though the POV is the older brother) following their grandfather’s orders. The storylines feel distinctly separate and yet each twining ever closer to one another.

There are politics, plots and a fair amount of violence. The Sister Queens are interesting, the magic is well done, and the world building is strong and makes sense in a way that helps the politics feel real and grounded. There’s history, there’s war, there are gods and myths and it all comes together to be a very good and enjoyable first book in the series.

However, I wasn’t entirely sold on the characters. While they were given distinct storylines to fill with motivations for each of them, I just — personally — wasn’t caught by them. For me, not being fully invested in a character makes it harder for me to really enjoy a book (that and the early writing style). That’s not to say this is a bad book, because it isn’t; or to say that I didn’t enjoy it, because I did. But the character work isn’t the author’s strong suit, in this book. That’s just my personal opinion. Other readers may feel differently.

I want to thank Net Galley and the publisher for granting me access to an advanced reader copy. I am very much looking forward to the second book in the series!

The book has potential but needs work. The story is hard to follow with so many characters introduced so fast with confusing names. I think this book would have a high level of DNF because the first half of the book is slow and difficult. The book does have potential since the world building is great and there are good surprises.

The best book I read all year. If you like his other series, you will love this. Very complex, weaving lots of different story lines together, but keeps you on your toes and turning pages as fast as you can. I cannot wait for the next one. Different enough to keep it interesting, but familiar enough to make it comfortable.

This book is edging in to Epic quality. Not quite there but a very enjoyable book. The book follows a cast of characters in the land of Ascarlia. One a boy who watches the slaughter of his village and discovers an inner rage that will transform his life. Another a man running from his dishonorable legacy working unpalatable tasks for his kingdom in the hopes to regain his honor. Third we have a warrior woman striving to bring justice for her queen and track down the red faced raiders attacking the kingdom. Finally, a scribe on an impossible task trying to prevent her own demise because she doesn't worship the same gods as her people. The first few chapters you have to slowly get used to the cast of characters. The world is strange and vibrant and the characters have depth. Slowly you get pulled in deeper and the excitement and battle carry you along. A worthwhile book all in all and a great read.

This one took a little bit longer to gain momentum compared to the other books of his that I have read, but I liked the convergence in the latter half of the book. The world is interesting and the character focused chapters keep the book fresh.

This was my first experience with Anthony Ryan. That may be why I didn't enjoy this book as much as I'd hoped. Or maybe it was the Norse-inspired setting, seeing as how I've read a lot of novels this year that take inspiration from Norse mythology.

Still the writing was entertaining, and the book was by no means bad. The novel starts a little slow, then progressively amps up. Character work is good as well.