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Fallen Gods #1
Godkiller
You are not welcome here, godkiller
Kissen’s family were killed by zealots of a fire god. Now, she makes a living killing gods, and enjoys it. That is until she finds a god she cannot kill: Skedi, a god of white lies, has somehow bound himself to a young noble, and they are both on the run from unknown assassins.
Joined by a disillusioned knight on a secret quest, they must travel to the ruined city of Blenraden, where the last of the wild gods reside, to each beg a favour.
Pursued by demons, and in the midst of burgeoning civil war, they will all face a reckoning – something is rotting at the heart of their world, and only they can be the ones to stop it.
Kissen’s family were killed by zealots of a fire god. Now, she makes a living killing gods, and enjoys it. That is until she finds a god she cannot kill: Skedi, a god of white lies, has somehow bound himself to a young noble, and they are both on the run from unknown assassins.
Joined by a disillusioned knight on a secret quest, they must travel to the ruined city of Blenraden, where the last of the wild gods reside, to each beg a favour.
Pursued by demons, and in the midst of burgeoning civil war, they will all face a reckoning – something is rotting at the heart of their world, and only they can be the ones to stop it.
13 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 19, 2023
About the author
Hannah Kaner
8 books2,370 followersHannah has her heart in Scotland and her roots in the north of England.
Hannah’s trade has always been story telling. From creating and unravelling mysteries in Northumberland with her mates, to annoying the hell out of her supervisors at the University of Cambridge by insisting on comparing Terry Pratchett to Charles Dickens, and studying narrative theory in video games.
They grudgingly (or joyfully?) gave her a 1st Class degree in English.
She puts the desire to communicate and challenge into her work in the technology sector, specialising in creating digital tools for hard to reach communities.
Hannah loves the histories and mythologies shared through our cultural histories, the stories we tell ourselves about being human. She also likes stabby swords and angry women.
Hannah’s trade has always been story telling. From creating and unravelling mysteries in Northumberland with her mates, to annoying the hell out of her supervisors at the University of Cambridge by insisting on comparing Terry Pratchett to Charles Dickens, and studying narrative theory in video games.
They grudgingly (or joyfully?) gave her a 1st Class degree in English.
She puts the desire to communicate and challenge into her work in the technology sector, specialising in creating digital tools for hard to reach communities.
Hannah loves the histories and mythologies shared through our cultural histories, the stories we tell ourselves about being human. She also likes stabby swords and angry women.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 10,948 reviews
October 18, 2022
y’all really want me to root for someone whose name means pillow in German 👁👄👁
— 3.5 stars rounded up
ACTUAL REVIEW: After initially struggling with the first few chapters of this novel, I’m happy to say it managed to convince me to keep reading to the point where I finished the last 60% in one go. Consider me SAT. 🧎🏼♀️
I still think my original comment/crack review is one of the funniest things I have ever contributed to this platform, but I’m happy to tell you all: the MC being called pillow didn’t bother me in the slightest. I was too focused on the plot and the characters’ relationships to pay any heed to Kissen’s German doppelgänger. 🛌
But back to Hannah Kaner’s more than solid debut novel about Gods and the art of killing them.
First off: this fictional world is queer-normative, and I literally couldn’t be more here for it. Queer-normative worlds will always have me assume every single character is queer, so when one of the characters turned out to be straight, I was shook, lmao. Had legitimately forgotten hets can exist in queer-normative worlds, too. A shocker, I know. Their lifestyle has to be everywhere. 😮💨😩
The novel’s concept is one of its major draws, IMO. A world that was once the breeding place for gods of every variety, size, and purpose. A country under the rule of the Prince who declared war on all gods still living, as well as on their rituals, customs, and their followers as a result of the terrible war on humankind that was fought and won by the Kingdom, though dearly paid for. And in all this: Kissen – a Godslayer, veiga – who tracks and hunts down remaining Gods.
While the fantasy genre is no stranger to divine characters, Kaner does something interesting with the concept by closely intertwining the Gods’ fates with humanity. Gods can only come into existence if people believe in and pray to them. The more shrines people build and the more offerings they bring, the stronger the God. This makes Kissen’s work more interesting in so far that she is more than just a killer of Gods, she is also a hunter of their symbols, and thus equally feared and despised by those who still pray to the beings of old.
Kissen is a breath of fresh air in today’s fantasy landscape. While the character still displays some tropey traits such as being orphaned at a young age, and consequently being a self-reliant, mulishly stubborn, hides-her-heart-behind-high-walls protagonist, she is also hella queer, knows how to fight and fights well!! (let’s not talk about those FMC that are either too overpowered and naturally gifted at literally every single thing they do or, while said to be a great warrior, actually aren’t), disabled (the disability rep in this novel was outstanding), and the brains to know when a situation is outside her capabilities. All in all, Kissen felt very well-rounded, and I enjoyed reading her POV.
The other characters we follow through the course of the novel are Elogast, currently a baker but formerly the Prince’s most-trusted knight suffering from PTSD from his time in the war; Inara, a young noble’s daughter who spent her short life hidden away from prying eyes to a point where no one knows she exists; and Skedi, the hare-deer-bird God of White Lies who is mysteriously bound to her, and whose existence puts both their lives at incredible risk.
All of the above characters I found engaging and well-written. Their POVs were unfortunately not as unique as I would have liked, so I sometimes forgot whose POV I was reading, meaning I had to go back to the chapter’s title page to remind myself.
Out of the four, Elogast was probably my favourite though I love that even though this is an adult fantasy novel, the author made a child a key character in her narrative. Inara made for an interesting addition to the group’s dynamic. But back to Elogast… 🧑🏿🍳 Is it too spoilery to say this is a fantasy novel with a romantic side plot?? Those will, unfortunately, always slap, and I will always eat them up, I can’t help it. 🫡 The battle at the end and the things leading up to it were exciting, sure, but the main reason I sped through the second half is because there was a good ol’ slow-burn romance and you know how I love those.
I guess my main gripe with the story was the novel’s length in combination with how relatively long things took to finally kick off. The main part is spent on the road, meaning only the novel’s beginning and ending were not about moving from one place to another. The characters travel, and travel, and travel, and it’s giving Fellowship of the Ring except for the fact that they are four, not nine and that with one exception, all of them are gay (“but the Fellowship is gay, too!!” I know, my dear, but the general public isn’t ready for that quite yet). To me, it only started to feel like things got going when the characters were well on their way already which – given the book’s length – was around the 30% mark. The book was simply a bit too short for an exposition this long.
However, despite the main plot taking just a little too long to kick off and the novel being more of a road trippidy-dippidy narrative, the book’s ending is nothing but explosive. The final chapters are so intense, you will not want to put the book down. I haven’t been excited about an Illumicrate monthly pick in a long time, and I will make sure to read the sequel as soon as it's out.
— 3.5 stars rounded up
ACTUAL REVIEW: After initially struggling with the first few chapters of this novel, I’m happy to say it managed to convince me to keep reading to the point where I finished the last 60% in one go. Consider me SAT. 🧎🏼♀️
I still think my original comment/crack review is one of the funniest things I have ever contributed to this platform, but I’m happy to tell you all: the MC being called pillow didn’t bother me in the slightest. I was too focused on the plot and the characters’ relationships to pay any heed to Kissen’s German doppelgänger. 🛌
But back to Hannah Kaner’s more than solid debut novel about Gods and the art of killing them.
First off: this fictional world is queer-normative, and I literally couldn’t be more here for it. Queer-normative worlds will always have me assume every single character is queer, so when one of the characters turned out to be straight, I was shook, lmao. Had legitimately forgotten hets can exist in queer-normative worlds, too. A shocker, I know. Their lifestyle has to be everywhere. 😮💨😩
The novel’s concept is one of its major draws, IMO. A world that was once the breeding place for gods of every variety, size, and purpose. A country under the rule of the Prince who declared war on all gods still living, as well as on their rituals, customs, and their followers as a result of the terrible war on humankind that was fought and won by the Kingdom, though dearly paid for. And in all this: Kissen – a Godslayer, veiga – who tracks and hunts down remaining Gods.
While the fantasy genre is no stranger to divine characters, Kaner does something interesting with the concept by closely intertwining the Gods’ fates with humanity. Gods can only come into existence if people believe in and pray to them. The more shrines people build and the more offerings they bring, the stronger the God. This makes Kissen’s work more interesting in so far that she is more than just a killer of Gods, she is also a hunter of their symbols, and thus equally feared and despised by those who still pray to the beings of old.
Kissen is a breath of fresh air in today’s fantasy landscape. While the character still displays some tropey traits such as being orphaned at a young age, and consequently being a self-reliant, mulishly stubborn, hides-her-heart-behind-high-walls protagonist, she is also hella queer, knows how to fight and fights well!! (let’s not talk about those FMC that are either too overpowered and naturally gifted at literally every single thing they do or, while said to be a great warrior, actually aren’t), disabled (the disability rep in this novel was outstanding), and the brains to know when a situation is outside her capabilities. All in all, Kissen felt very well-rounded, and I enjoyed reading her POV.
The other characters we follow through the course of the novel are Elogast, currently a baker but formerly the Prince’s most-trusted knight suffering from PTSD from his time in the war; Inara, a young noble’s daughter who spent her short life hidden away from prying eyes to a point where no one knows she exists; and Skedi, the hare-deer-bird God of White Lies who is mysteriously bound to her, and whose existence puts both their lives at incredible risk.
All of the above characters I found engaging and well-written. Their POVs were unfortunately not as unique as I would have liked, so I sometimes forgot whose POV I was reading, meaning I had to go back to the chapter’s title page to remind myself.
Out of the four, Elogast was probably my favourite though I love that even though this is an adult fantasy novel, the author made a child a key character in her narrative. Inara made for an interesting addition to the group’s dynamic. But back to Elogast… 🧑🏿🍳 Is it too spoilery to say this is a fantasy novel with a romantic side plot?? Those will, unfortunately, always slap, and I will always eat them up, I can’t help it. 🫡 The battle at the end and the things leading up to it were exciting, sure, but the main reason I sped through the second half is because there was a good ol’ slow-burn romance and you know how I love those.
I guess my main gripe with the story was the novel’s length in combination with how relatively long things took to finally kick off. The main part is spent on the road, meaning only the novel’s beginning and ending were not about moving from one place to another. The characters travel, and travel, and travel, and it’s giving Fellowship of the Ring except for the fact that they are four, not nine and that with one exception, all of them are gay (“but the Fellowship is gay, too!!” I know, my dear, but the general public isn’t ready for that quite yet). To me, it only started to feel like things got going when the characters were well on their way already which – given the book’s length – was around the 30% mark. The book was simply a bit too short for an exposition this long.
However, despite the main plot taking just a little too long to kick off and the novel being more of a road trippidy-dippidy narrative, the book’s ending is nothing but explosive. The final chapters are so intense, you will not want to put the book down. I haven’t been excited about an Illumicrate monthly pick in a long time, and I will make sure to read the sequel as soon as it's out.
November 1, 2025
And here is yet another book that I should have read, what, two years ago? But good things do wait and I am happy to have read it now.
The Caveat: I received this gorgeous hardback free from the fine folk at Harper Voyager. I assure you, that does not affect my review.
The physical hardback I have is gorgeous. Lovely cover, and beautiful endpaper art. I will enjoy having this on my shelves for a long time.
The Story: This tale didn't catch fire for me until page 17. I might have set it aside except Kat kept saying, 'Read it, you're going to love it.' I hate to admit she was right. So, if you have a copy, please don't set it aside until you've ventured past page 17. You won't regret it, and when you go back to skim it again, you will wonder why you ever doubted it.
This isn't really a spoiler. You know how much I hate spoilers. One of the main characters is a god-killer. As in someone who goes around killing gods, often for a bounty. I didn't much like her at first. (I don't think the author intended that I should like her at first.) But I came to admire her complexity and then to really enjoy her, and the other two important characters in the tale.
One of the most satisfying things for me was that this book did not minimize the things that happened to the characters. I think we've all see movies where the hero gets knocked flat with a two by four to the back of the head, but gets up and has a twenty minute fight scene and then makes love to the other character for thirty minutes. And the blow to the head is never mentioned again.
Godkiller doesn't do that. Characters carry the burden of events and decisions, be they physical or emotional.
I like that.
Kaner tells a completely satisfying story in less than 300 pages. She leaves the door open for more, and I am told there is a sequel, but like the best of story tellers, this is a complete story, with a beginning, middle and end. Don't hesitate to read.
Safe prediction: You will both like and distrust Skedi.
The Caveat: I received this gorgeous hardback free from the fine folk at Harper Voyager. I assure you, that does not affect my review.
The physical hardback I have is gorgeous. Lovely cover, and beautiful endpaper art. I will enjoy having this on my shelves for a long time.
The Story: This tale didn't catch fire for me until page 17. I might have set it aside except Kat kept saying, 'Read it, you're going to love it.' I hate to admit she was right. So, if you have a copy, please don't set it aside until you've ventured past page 17. You won't regret it, and when you go back to skim it again, you will wonder why you ever doubted it.
This isn't really a spoiler. You know how much I hate spoilers. One of the main characters is a god-killer. As in someone who goes around killing gods, often for a bounty. I didn't much like her at first. (I don't think the author intended that I should like her at first.) But I came to admire her complexity and then to really enjoy her, and the other two important characters in the tale.
One of the most satisfying things for me was that this book did not minimize the things that happened to the characters. I think we've all see movies where the hero gets knocked flat with a two by four to the back of the head, but gets up and has a twenty minute fight scene and then makes love to the other character for thirty minutes. And the blow to the head is never mentioned again.
Godkiller doesn't do that. Characters carry the burden of events and decisions, be they physical or emotional.
I like that.
Kaner tells a completely satisfying story in less than 300 pages. She leaves the door open for more, and I am told there is a sequel, but like the best of story tellers, this is a complete story, with a beginning, middle and end. Don't hesitate to read.
Safe prediction: You will both like and distrust Skedi.
March 27, 2023
this is an extremely well-written novel. when it comes to fantasy, this definitely falls in rank with authors like rothfuss, lynch, and sanderson.
theres a lot of enjoy about this. the characters are wonderfully developed, the plot is engaging, and the world is built up perfectly for a medieval fantasy.
is there anything that made me obsess over this? no, not really. but its definitely an above average story and one that i had fun reading.
↠ 4 stars
theres a lot of enjoy about this. the characters are wonderfully developed, the plot is engaging, and the world is built up perfectly for a medieval fantasy.
is there anything that made me obsess over this? no, not really. but its definitely an above average story and one that i had fun reading.
↠ 4 stars
February 1, 2024
(3.5) I really enjoyed this one! I wasn't expecting all the povs, but I really enjoyed following each character & finding myself attached to each of them by the end. They all brought something new and fresh to the story. My only big gripe with this book was the pacing. It felt like whiplash at times. One minute you're in the middle of this tense action scene and the next minute it's *crickets*
March 11, 2023
1.5 stars
I couldn’t care about the book, its story or its characters. At all. Not in the slightest. Not one bit. It’s a very amateur novel for a publishing house like Harper Voyage. I didn’t want to read Godkiller but it was the pick of the month in the book club I’m in so I thought "just 300 pages so it is not a big deal". Unfortunately, it proved to be a real struggle to finish. The only interesting thing about it was that prologue.
It didn't manage to hold my attention, I had a difficult time reading it, and I couldn’t connect even remotely to the characters. My friends liked it at least. Unfortunately, I felt like I wasted my time. It was boring, the characters nothing interesting and while the story concept is fine, the execution is underwhelming. I know many disagree but I’m tired of being sorry when I don’t like a book. Or well, sorry in general. I rarely give 1 star ratings anymore always leaving the book some benefit of the doubt but I’m tired of doing that even. This book wasn’t my thing. It might be yours and if so great! But in all cases, I only recommend it if you want some basic fantasy. It is a waste though, the diversity and the inclusion were great. The MC had a disability + several LGBT characters.
I couldn’t care about the book, its story or its characters. At all. Not in the slightest. Not one bit. It’s a very amateur novel for a publishing house like Harper Voyage. I didn’t want to read Godkiller but it was the pick of the month in the book club I’m in so I thought "just 300 pages so it is not a big deal". Unfortunately, it proved to be a real struggle to finish. The only interesting thing about it was that prologue.
It didn't manage to hold my attention, I had a difficult time reading it, and I couldn’t connect even remotely to the characters. My friends liked it at least. Unfortunately, I felt like I wasted my time. It was boring, the characters nothing interesting and while the story concept is fine, the execution is underwhelming. I know many disagree but I’m tired of being sorry when I don’t like a book. Or well, sorry in general. I rarely give 1 star ratings anymore always leaving the book some benefit of the doubt but I’m tired of doing that even. This book wasn’t my thing. It might be yours and if so great! But in all cases, I only recommend it if you want some basic fantasy. It is a waste though, the diversity and the inclusion were great. The MC had a disability + several LGBT characters.
November 26, 2022
"You are not welcome here, Godkiller" is a simple statement that piqued my curiosity when I opened the package that included Hannah Kaner's upcoming fantasy debut. I was so intrigued that I opted to read Godkiller next. I'm content that I did as this release is a fascinating and engaging dark fantasy adventure reminiscent of Sapkowski's The Witcher series. It is extremely well-written, features excellent pacing and contains some wonderful twists.
The action picks up some time after a momentous event in this world, the killing of the majority of the gods under the King's orders. Although things seem pretty settled at the moment, there are rumours of a civil war, political unrest, civilians who miss the gods, and there are strange happenings that have taken place. This all causes a few of our main characters' paths to cross - following a secret request from the king - culminating in the necessity for a quest to the ruined city of Blenraden. A lot has happened previously in Kaner's fantasy world and the details, mythology, and the positions that the gods play are all revealed neatly and gradually as the tale progresses.
Whilst reading Godkiller, we follow four different points of view. Two of them are reluctant legends in their own fields, both were active and influential throughout the god war, and are now just generally plodding along. They find themselves in a position that is similar to how Ringil begins in The Steel Remains. Kissen is the titular Godkiller and her occupation is pretty self-explanatory. She doesn't like gods much and will kill them for a fee. Elogast is currently a baker, yet his previous occupation was as one of the King's most trusted Knights. We also follow Inara, a young noble lady who the majority of the nobility don't seem to know exists, and finally her bonded god companion Skedi, the god of white lies.
All the points of view are interesting; their past experiences, flaws, and vulnerabilities revealed to the reader as they're detailed to the other main characters. Inara and Skedi's connection and the god's past are shrouded in mystery, as it should not be possible for a god to survive without a shrine and the love and dedication of followers.
Regarding what to expect, Godkiller includes an LGBTQ+ lead, main characters who struggle with mental illness, a point of view character who has a prosthetic leg, other important disabled characters, and this world's equivalent of sign language. All of these aspects fit seamlessly and enhance the story and the characters around them. We also have incredible set pieces, romance, betrayals, showdowns, curses, tragic loss, demons, and an amazing ending. Little statements and seemingly unimportant details come to be of the utmost importance later on, so Godkiller is absolutely a rewarding novel for those that pay attention.
Godkiller delivers an impressive fantasy world, the way the gods are presented is unique, and, as previously mentioned, the fact that the mythology and history are delivered at a steady pace hints that this series has a lot more of its secrets yet to reveal. Kaner's debut reads similar to one of Sapkowski's short stories or the stand-alone Season of Storms in that it's self-contained, follows a few main characters on an adventure, and that it feels like we're only witnessing a small yet exciting part of what's going on in a massive, vivid world.
At around 300 pages, it's quite a short read for epic fantasy and I truly hope that Kaner builds on this credible platform that showcases great potential. My only minor complaint is that due to Godkiller's short length, some of the exchanges and events seem a bit too neat and coincidental. In light of this point, I'd personally like the series' next entry to expand, include more point-of-view characters, to show us what is happening elsewhere in the world concurrently, adding extra depth, and drama, and becoming even more impressive. Happenings have truly heated up by the end of the novel, and so I will trust the author's vision and I'll definitely read what comes next.
The action picks up some time after a momentous event in this world, the killing of the majority of the gods under the King's orders. Although things seem pretty settled at the moment, there are rumours of a civil war, political unrest, civilians who miss the gods, and there are strange happenings that have taken place. This all causes a few of our main characters' paths to cross - following a secret request from the king - culminating in the necessity for a quest to the ruined city of Blenraden. A lot has happened previously in Kaner's fantasy world and the details, mythology, and the positions that the gods play are all revealed neatly and gradually as the tale progresses.
Whilst reading Godkiller, we follow four different points of view. Two of them are reluctant legends in their own fields, both were active and influential throughout the god war, and are now just generally plodding along. They find themselves in a position that is similar to how Ringil begins in The Steel Remains. Kissen is the titular Godkiller and her occupation is pretty self-explanatory. She doesn't like gods much and will kill them for a fee. Elogast is currently a baker, yet his previous occupation was as one of the King's most trusted Knights. We also follow Inara, a young noble lady who the majority of the nobility don't seem to know exists, and finally her bonded god companion Skedi, the god of white lies.
All the points of view are interesting; their past experiences, flaws, and vulnerabilities revealed to the reader as they're detailed to the other main characters. Inara and Skedi's connection and the god's past are shrouded in mystery, as it should not be possible for a god to survive without a shrine and the love and dedication of followers.
Regarding what to expect, Godkiller includes an LGBTQ+ lead, main characters who struggle with mental illness, a point of view character who has a prosthetic leg, other important disabled characters, and this world's equivalent of sign language. All of these aspects fit seamlessly and enhance the story and the characters around them. We also have incredible set pieces, romance, betrayals, showdowns, curses, tragic loss, demons, and an amazing ending. Little statements and seemingly unimportant details come to be of the utmost importance later on, so Godkiller is absolutely a rewarding novel for those that pay attention.
Godkiller delivers an impressive fantasy world, the way the gods are presented is unique, and, as previously mentioned, the fact that the mythology and history are delivered at a steady pace hints that this series has a lot more of its secrets yet to reveal. Kaner's debut reads similar to one of Sapkowski's short stories or the stand-alone Season of Storms in that it's self-contained, follows a few main characters on an adventure, and that it feels like we're only witnessing a small yet exciting part of what's going on in a massive, vivid world.
At around 300 pages, it's quite a short read for epic fantasy and I truly hope that Kaner builds on this credible platform that showcases great potential. My only minor complaint is that due to Godkiller's short length, some of the exchanges and events seem a bit too neat and coincidental. In light of this point, I'd personally like the series' next entry to expand, include more point-of-view characters, to show us what is happening elsewhere in the world concurrently, adding extra depth, and drama, and becoming even more impressive. Happenings have truly heated up by the end of the novel, and so I will trust the author's vision and I'll definitely read what comes next.
November 27, 2022
A fresh and confident debut, Godkiller will have you in its grasp from the first pages. Led by a cast of spirited characters, it leaps and bounds to the beat of its own golden heart, building to an epic clash of wills.
Hannah Kaner has taken her first great strides in what is sure to be an extraordinary journey.
Hannah Kaner has taken her first great strides in what is sure to be an extraordinary journey.
March 4, 2023
The prologue was sooo good and the last ~50 pages too but the middle part bored me to death (writing this from the afterlife). The worldbuilding was very confusing and there were way to many side characters that didn't add anything to the story. I really liked the gods and the main concept of the story but it was written in such a way that I just didn't care at all.
September 19, 2025
Damn I wish I had loved this
Read
September 23, 2023As of the beginning of writing this I'm still not sure what rating I want to give, so maybe I'll figure it out by the end. I wanted to love Godkiller (look at that cover!) but I have very mixed feelings about it. Pitched as perfect for fans of Witcher and Gideon the Ninth... I have questions. Witcher I kind of get as a comp title, though I think think that might set up the wrong expectations. There are some loose similarities. As for Gideon, I think it's a terrible comparison. The only similarity is that both books have queer women with swords.
This ended up being a journey story, which can be a hard sell for me. A knight turned baker, a lady Godkiller, and a little girl attached to a small god end up thrown together on a dangerous journey to a forbidden city. The prologue grabbed my attention immediately and there were elements of the story that liked. The complexities of gods and faith as something with great potential for both good and evil is interesting.
I liked the characters well enough, but I wanted more from them. I was never invested enough to really care about this romantic subplot, and we never get enough information to really get why Elo is so loyal to his childhood BFF.
The world-building is interesting, but the book is slow for being less than 300 pages. As much as there were questions I wanted answers to and I was interested to see where things went, I struggled to remain attentive and this book too me way longer to read than it should have given the length. I definitely would not call it a page-turner. And the ending is interesting, but not as satisfying as I was hoping given how plodding the journey to get there could be.
But for all that, this isn't a BAD book. The world is reasonably interesting, so is the plot. The characters are fine for a debut, the prose is also perfectly fine if nothing to write home about. There are the bones of something here that could have really captured my imagination and there are moments in the book that rise to the occasion. I had very high hopes, and so maybe that's on me. But it was fine. I think some people will really enjoy it. It's also worth saying that there is disability rep in this book, which I think is great to see. Again- elements of this I wanted to love so I'm rounding up but it just wasn't quite what I hoped. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
This ended up being a journey story, which can be a hard sell for me. A knight turned baker, a lady Godkiller, and a little girl attached to a small god end up thrown together on a dangerous journey to a forbidden city. The prologue grabbed my attention immediately and there were elements of the story that liked. The complexities of gods and faith as something with great potential for both good and evil is interesting.
I liked the characters well enough, but I wanted more from them. I was never invested enough to really care about this romantic subplot, and we never get enough information to really get why Elo is so loyal to his childhood BFF.
The world-building is interesting, but the book is slow for being less than 300 pages. As much as there were questions I wanted answers to and I was interested to see where things went, I struggled to remain attentive and this book too me way longer to read than it should have given the length. I definitely would not call it a page-turner. And the ending is interesting, but not as satisfying as I was hoping given how plodding the journey to get there could be.
But for all that, this isn't a BAD book. The world is reasonably interesting, so is the plot. The characters are fine for a debut, the prose is also perfectly fine if nothing to write home about. There are the bones of something here that could have really captured my imagination and there are moments in the book that rise to the occasion. I had very high hopes, and so maybe that's on me. But it was fine. I think some people will really enjoy it. It's also worth saying that there is disability rep in this book, which I think is great to see. Again- elements of this I wanted to love so I'm rounding up but it just wasn't quite what I hoped. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
November 8, 2023
actual rating: 3.75 stars
March 10, 2023
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Rating: 4 stars
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟
The soft brown tones and mystical illustrations make this design weirdly striking, even though it does not convey much about the story.
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The immersive writing style, with its lush descriptions and multiple points of view, quickly pulled me into the story. Even more captivating was the atmospheric world brimming with history and a fascinating gods system that enriches the story.
“The people with the sharpest edges sometimes hid the deepest wounds."
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The gradual introduction to the world and main characters is interspersed with vivid action scenes that keep the storyline engaging. Once the main characters cross paths, the storyline alternates between fast and slow moments, suffering somewhat from pacing issues but still compelling. Things culminate in a gripping ending with lots of action, several reveals and a delicious cliffhanger that sets things up nicely for the next book.
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The complex trio central to the story are distinct, fleshed-out characters. Fierce yet caring, Kissen was easy to like, and I loved the disability representation she presents through her prosthesis. Although I took slightly longer to connect with Elogast and Inara, the growth they experience adds depth to their characters and makes them endearing.
"What happened to us does not define us, what we do next is what matters."
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟
Apart from Skediceth, a little god of white lies, secondary characters in this story receive little focus and are simply used to drive the storyline. However, due to shocking reveals towards the end of the story, some of these characters will likely be developed further in the next book.
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The enemies-to-lover trope is skillfully used here, with the characters initially suspicious of each other but then gradually trusting and opening up to one another. As their walls come down, moments of attraction eventually lead to a passion that mostly feels natural and cute.
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Kit Griffiths' dynamic narration, which enriches the story's emotions, pace and tension, grabbed my attention within seconds. Also, the different voices used for the characters bring them to life and strengthen the listening experience.
In brief, 'Godkiller' begins and ends with an exhilarating rush of action. Despite slight pacing issues in the middle, the story remained entertaining because of the fascinating main characters and enchanting world. I would recommend The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri for those looking for a similar high fantasy read with a fascinating world and fiery characters.
Rating: 4 stars
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟
The soft brown tones and mystical illustrations make this design weirdly striking, even though it does not convey much about the story.
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The immersive writing style, with its lush descriptions and multiple points of view, quickly pulled me into the story. Even more captivating was the atmospheric world brimming with history and a fascinating gods system that enriches the story.
“The people with the sharpest edges sometimes hid the deepest wounds."
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The gradual introduction to the world and main characters is interspersed with vivid action scenes that keep the storyline engaging. Once the main characters cross paths, the storyline alternates between fast and slow moments, suffering somewhat from pacing issues but still compelling. Things culminate in a gripping ending with lots of action, several reveals and a delicious cliffhanger that sets things up nicely for the next book.
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The complex trio central to the story are distinct, fleshed-out characters. Fierce yet caring, Kissen was easy to like, and I loved the disability representation she presents through her prosthesis. Although I took slightly longer to connect with Elogast and Inara, the growth they experience adds depth to their characters and makes them endearing.
"What happened to us does not define us, what we do next is what matters."
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟
Apart from Skediceth, a little god of white lies, secondary characters in this story receive little focus and are simply used to drive the storyline. However, due to shocking reveals towards the end of the story, some of these characters will likely be developed further in the next book.
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The enemies-to-lover trope is skillfully used here, with the characters initially suspicious of each other but then gradually trusting and opening up to one another. As their walls come down, moments of attraction eventually lead to a passion that mostly feels natural and cute.
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Kit Griffiths' dynamic narration, which enriches the story's emotions, pace and tension, grabbed my attention within seconds. Also, the different voices used for the characters bring them to life and strengthen the listening experience.
In brief, 'Godkiller' begins and ends with an exhilarating rush of action. Despite slight pacing issues in the middle, the story remained entertaining because of the fascinating main characters and enchanting world. I would recommend The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri for those looking for a similar high fantasy read with a fascinating world and fiery characters.
January 3, 2024
This book was fantastic! Being the author’s debut, I can’t wait to see what Hanna will bring us next! One thing is certain though, Hanna is a great addition for the fantasy genre, and will surely secure a place among the greatest.
I loved everything about Godkiller:
- cover: I don’t usually comment on this but I couldn’t ignore this one. It’s stunning! And the texture? I don’t know if the regular edition has the same feeling but the illumicrate one is so soft that I just don’t want to stop touching the book (and I read it on kindle 😂)
- writing: gorgeous and efficient. Hanna easily grabbed my attention and transported me to a new world without any difficulty. Absolutely everything written in this book is necessary for the story flow.
- worldbuiling: interesting and original. Despite being high fantasy, we are slowly introduced to everything, without ever feeling swamped with information, or lost in the new world.
- characters: I loved them all! Godkiller has 4 very distinct POV, with amazing character ARC. Every character is struggling with different things, resulting in an endearing found family trope.
- representation: perfect! Includes disability, mental health, chronic pain, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC, and none of it feels forced into the book.
- romance: it’s a needed subplot to further develop the character, and I liked it very much.
You can see I am truly impressed by Godkiller. And the best thing of all? This was all accomplished in less than 300 pages!
I could go on and on but I don’t want to spoil anything. Recommended for high fantasy readers or for those wanting to enter the genre.
I loved everything about Godkiller:
- cover: I don’t usually comment on this but I couldn’t ignore this one. It’s stunning! And the texture? I don’t know if the regular edition has the same feeling but the illumicrate one is so soft that I just don’t want to stop touching the book (and I read it on kindle 😂)
- writing: gorgeous and efficient. Hanna easily grabbed my attention and transported me to a new world without any difficulty. Absolutely everything written in this book is necessary for the story flow.
- worldbuiling: interesting and original. Despite being high fantasy, we are slowly introduced to everything, without ever feeling swamped with information, or lost in the new world.
- characters: I loved them all! Godkiller has 4 very distinct POV, with amazing character ARC. Every character is struggling with different things, resulting in an endearing found family trope.
- representation: perfect! Includes disability, mental health, chronic pain, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC, and none of it feels forced into the book.
- romance: it’s a needed subplot to further develop the character, and I liked it very much.
You can see I am truly impressed by Godkiller. And the best thing of all? This was all accomplished in less than 300 pages!
I could go on and on but I don’t want to spoil anything. Recommended for high fantasy readers or for those wanting to enter the genre.
December 16, 2022
4.75/5
People make gods, and, for better or worse, gods make people.
I absolutely adored everything about this book, it was phenomenal! The world was so vibrant and alive, teeming with history and ancient beings; the characters were so real and human, always flawed and always interesting; the prose was beautiful and evocative. I simply cannot fault it!
Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. This review has been postponed in support of the HarperCollins Union Strike. Congratulations to the union!
The world was so rich, flooded with possibilities, unique faiths and conflicting ideals that stirred intrigue and seeded mysteries throughout the story. From the very first page, I was completely immersed within it and felt its life as it lived and breathed all around me. Kaner’s prose was so mesmerising and emotional, it enthralled my every thought and I never wanted to put this book down. I’m astounded that this was a debut, it’s easily one of my favourite books I’ve read this year.
Funerals are for the living. The dead don't mind what the world does to them.
The characters were, to sum them up very plainly, incredible. They each were so fleshed out, with their own intriguing motivations and journeys, their own complicated and ensnaring relationships, their own beliefs and fears and treacheries. They were created so flawlessly that they felt less like creations, less like characters on a page, and more akin to humans. And I loved each and every one of them!
Kissen is a perfect main character, a perfect driving force throughout this story. She’s a veiga, a godkiller, in a world brimming with gods of old and new. She has ghosts that haunt her, the flames of her past contending with the brightness of the future beneath the ever-watching eye of the sun. She has a purpose in her life that directs her across this wide world, but all that changes when she meets Inara.
Inara is a young girl with mysterious powers and a magical friend (who, I would say, definitely counts as an animal companion). She wants answers to the secrets she has had to keep for years, she wants to understand her place in the world and perhaps create a new one. She goes to Kissen for answers and discovers more than she ever would have guessed.
Inara and Kissen’s relationship is so beautiful to behold and watch as it grows and contorts, fitting around old wounds and scars, shifting amongst their newfound care and shared resilience. It’s a relationship that parallels and reminds me of Geralt and Ciri in the Witcher, a bond of family that refuses to break.
Kissen and Inara are also similar characters to Geralt and Ciri respectively, and this story holds the same comfort that the world of the Witcher does—a warmth of familiarity that makes it feel like coming home to a place you never wanted to leave.
Another of our main characters is a retired knight named Elogast. I love the ‘retired warrior must pick up his sword one final time’ trope and so I also loved seeing it here. He’s a disillusioned ex-knight, wearing the scars of his battles on his skin. But his worst scars are the ones that lie deep within, on the shards of his memories. He makes an unlikely traveller on the roads and an even more unlikely companion to Kissen and Inara as they travel to the ruins of a city—each with their own compelling motivations.
Even small lives are worth something.
The plot takes us on a winding adventure rooted in a world overflowing with magic. It’s unputdownable and so much fun to read. I cannot wait for the next book and I will fight anyone I must to get my hands on it!
-
(1/12/23 I've now reread in anticipation for Sunbringer, the sequel, and I loved it just as much, maybe even more, the second time! This is such a phenomenal book, I adore all the characters, the world is so vibrant and the story is so comforting. I can't wait to read my arc of Sunbringer! If you haven't already, GO READ THIS BOOK!)
People make gods, and, for better or worse, gods make people.
I absolutely adored everything about this book, it was phenomenal! The world was so vibrant and alive, teeming with history and ancient beings; the characters were so real and human, always flawed and always interesting; the prose was beautiful and evocative. I simply cannot fault it!
Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. This review has been postponed in support of the HarperCollins Union Strike. Congratulations to the union!
The world was so rich, flooded with possibilities, unique faiths and conflicting ideals that stirred intrigue and seeded mysteries throughout the story. From the very first page, I was completely immersed within it and felt its life as it lived and breathed all around me. Kaner’s prose was so mesmerising and emotional, it enthralled my every thought and I never wanted to put this book down. I’m astounded that this was a debut, it’s easily one of my favourite books I’ve read this year.
Funerals are for the living. The dead don't mind what the world does to them.
The characters were, to sum them up very plainly, incredible. They each were so fleshed out, with their own intriguing motivations and journeys, their own complicated and ensnaring relationships, their own beliefs and fears and treacheries. They were created so flawlessly that they felt less like creations, less like characters on a page, and more akin to humans. And I loved each and every one of them!
Kissen is a perfect main character, a perfect driving force throughout this story. She’s a veiga, a godkiller, in a world brimming with gods of old and new. She has ghosts that haunt her, the flames of her past contending with the brightness of the future beneath the ever-watching eye of the sun. She has a purpose in her life that directs her across this wide world, but all that changes when she meets Inara.
Inara is a young girl with mysterious powers and a magical friend (who, I would say, definitely counts as an animal companion). She wants answers to the secrets she has had to keep for years, she wants to understand her place in the world and perhaps create a new one. She goes to Kissen for answers and discovers more than she ever would have guessed.
Inara and Kissen’s relationship is so beautiful to behold and watch as it grows and contorts, fitting around old wounds and scars, shifting amongst their newfound care and shared resilience. It’s a relationship that parallels and reminds me of Geralt and Ciri in the Witcher, a bond of family that refuses to break.
Kissen and Inara are also similar characters to Geralt and Ciri respectively, and this story holds the same comfort that the world of the Witcher does—a warmth of familiarity that makes it feel like coming home to a place you never wanted to leave.
Another of our main characters is a retired knight named Elogast. I love the ‘retired warrior must pick up his sword one final time’ trope and so I also loved seeing it here. He’s a disillusioned ex-knight, wearing the scars of his battles on his skin. But his worst scars are the ones that lie deep within, on the shards of his memories. He makes an unlikely traveller on the roads and an even more unlikely companion to Kissen and Inara as they travel to the ruins of a city—each with their own compelling motivations.
Even small lives are worth something.
The plot takes us on a winding adventure rooted in a world overflowing with magic. It’s unputdownable and so much fun to read. I cannot wait for the next book and I will fight anyone I must to get my hands on it!
-
(1/12/23 I've now reread in anticipation for Sunbringer, the sequel, and I loved it just as much, maybe even more, the second time! This is such a phenomenal book, I adore all the characters, the world is so vibrant and the story is so comforting. I can't wait to read my arc of Sunbringer! If you haven't already, GO READ THIS BOOK!)
April 25, 2024
„Палач на богове“ е разкошен фентъзи роман! Мрачната история за битки и интриги между хората и боговете е страшно сладкодумно разказана и неусетно пренася читателите в своята пленителна мистична атмосфера... Действието в нея се развива динамично, но същевременно съдържа смислени послания относно религиозния фанатизъм и алчността за власт. Много приятно съм изненадан от основните персонажи в книгата, които се оказаха силни и запомнящи се образи! Житейските съдби на убийцата на богове Кисен, момичето от аристократичен произход Инара, богът на благородните лъжи Скеди, и пекарят и бивш рицар Елогаст, се преплитат по изключително любопитен и вълнуващ начин...
„Умишлено или не, сълзите на Инара също повлияха на Ело. Волята на Скeди се уви около аурата му, долови несигурността и я уталожи, потисна я. Справяше се, успяваше да контролира и двамата, защото това бяха дребни, благородни лъжи, на които почти им се искаше да повярват. Сред цветовете на Ело се надигна чувство за дълг с цвета на прасковена зора и той кимна.
- Така да бъде - изрече.
Беше почти сладко; той наистина чувстваше нужда да помага на хората. Грабна раницата си и се изсули от хамака. Cкeди долетя при Инара и я обърна обратно, а козината му настръхна от собствената му мощ, почти усещаше как рогата му порастват. Човеците бяха толкова лековерни! Като риби в мрежа, щом веднъж ги уловеше. Беше поел контрола над съдбата си и над тази на Инара за пръв път, откaкто се бяха намерили един друг и се бяха принудили да живеят в страх. Щеше да им поиска дарове в замяна на спасяването от вейгата и демоните. Щеше да бъде истински бог.“
„Умишлено или не, сълзите на Инара също повлияха на Ело. Волята на Скeди се уви около аурата му, долови несигурността и я уталожи, потисна я. Справяше се, успяваше да контролира и двамата, защото това бяха дребни, благородни лъжи, на които почти им се искаше да повярват. Сред цветовете на Ело се надигна чувство за дълг с цвета на прасковена зора и той кимна.
- Така да бъде - изрече.
Беше почти сладко; той наистина чувстваше нужда да помага на хората. Грабна раницата си и се изсули от хамака. Cкeди долетя при Инара и я обърна обратно, а козината му настръхна от собствената му мощ, почти усещаше как рогата му порастват. Човеците бяха толкова лековерни! Като риби в мрежа, щом веднъж ги уловеше. Беше поел контрола над съдбата си и над тази на Инара за пръв път, откaкто се бяха намерили един друг и се бяха принудили да живеят в страх. Щеше да им поиска дарове в замяна на спасяването от вейгата и демоните. Щеше да бъде истински бог.“
Read
August 26, 20267 books in 7 days! (Read It or Unhaul It Sprint #2)
Day 4/7
Prompt: Fantasy with a 10/10 Cover
YouTube reading vlog: https://youtu.be/pMxpUQ2Rv70
Mini reviews…
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DchA_o...
TikTok: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSVqQRd6c/
Written review: on the way
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
Day 4/7
Prompt: Fantasy with a 10/10 Cover
YouTube reading vlog: https://youtu.be/pMxpUQ2Rv70
Mini reviews…
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DchA_o...
TikTok: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSVqQRd6c/
Written review: on the way
You can find me on...
Youtube | Instagram | TikTok
You can join our book club over on Patreon...
PBB Book Club
February 8, 2023
oh this was devastating to the highest degree. the prologue ended with “I love you,’ he said, and threw her to the sea.” and it was at that moment i knew.
RTC
RTC
January 27, 2024
Very mixed feelings. Didn't enjoy the first half, but the second half was considerably better. Very interesting world-building. Only time will tell if I pick up book 2.
3.5 / 5 stars
3.5 / 5 stars
April 15, 2024
BookTube channel with my awesome brother, Ed - The Brothers Gwynne
My personal BookTube channel - William Gwynne
"'More powerful gods than you have made me offers, Ennerast,' said Kissen, 'and I killed them just the same.'”
I was immediately intrigued when I saw the awesome title, and heard the great premise. I mean, Godkiller must surely be one of the best fantasy titles out there!
This is a very well-written book with a core cast of unique characters. The relationship between our Godkiller, Kissen, and Inara is one of the highlights of this story. It witnesses real growth, with breadcrumbs that allow us to gradually learn more about their past whilst keeping the reader engaged.
“You are not welcome here, Godkiller”
Whilst the pace lost a bit of its drive around the middle of the book, it does not last long. This is quite short for a fantasy book, but contains a lot for its size. Great world building in a unique setting, clear and effective prose, a brilliant premise and twists throughout. A very solid beginning to the Fallen Gods series that I think has something for most readers out there.
4/5 STARS
My personal BookTube channel - William Gwynne
"'More powerful gods than you have made me offers, Ennerast,' said Kissen, 'and I killed them just the same.'”
I was immediately intrigued when I saw the awesome title, and heard the great premise. I mean, Godkiller must surely be one of the best fantasy titles out there!
This is a very well-written book with a core cast of unique characters. The relationship between our Godkiller, Kissen, and Inara is one of the highlights of this story. It witnesses real growth, with breadcrumbs that allow us to gradually learn more about their past whilst keeping the reader engaged.
“You are not welcome here, Godkiller”
Whilst the pace lost a bit of its drive around the middle of the book, it does not last long. This is quite short for a fantasy book, but contains a lot for its size. Great world building in a unique setting, clear and effective prose, a brilliant premise and twists throughout. A very solid beginning to the Fallen Gods series that I think has something for most readers out there.
4/5 STARS
April 29, 2024
Kissen kills gods for a living, but she soon meets a god she can’t kill: Skediceth— minor god of white lies. Skedi is bonded to a noble girl named Inara and they cannot be separated and because of this Inara harbors some godlike abilities as well. the final character is Elogath, a retired knight who fought in the godwar. together these 3 along with Skedi set out on a quest together that leads to eventual destruction, betrayal and reveals.
”You are worth more than you think. You are still alive; make something of it. Of life, not death.”
i loved all the queer/disability rep in here and the only real problem i had was some uneven pacing. but i liked the characters and they all had distinct personalities. even though the premise is that of a typical fantasy, something about the way it’s written made it feel a bit different in a way i can’t even fully explain. the ending gripped me though and i’m left wondering where the characters will go from here in the sequel.
”You are worth more than you think. You are still alive; make something of it. Of life, not death.”
i loved all the queer/disability rep in here and the only real problem i had was some uneven pacing. but i liked the characters and they all had distinct personalities. even though the premise is that of a typical fantasy, something about the way it’s written made it feel a bit different in a way i can’t even fully explain. the ending gripped me though and i’m left wondering where the characters will go from here in the sequel.
January 5, 2024
Unfortunately I did not enjoy reading this novel. I thought all the characters sounded the same voice-wise even though the book featured multiple points of view. In addition to the dry writing, I felt that Godkiller focused so much on action (e.g., character does X, character does Y, character does Z) that it sacrificed more of the emotional component of each character and each character’s interiority. The characters were doing things and I found it hard to care. I don’t always naturally lean toward fantasy so maybe that contributed to my dislike. We’ll see if my book club liked it more than I did!
September 8, 2023
This is a solid start to a new series, and I think it will appeal to many readers desiring diverse fantasy. The quality of writing really is stellar; I think my struggles more or less stemmed from the uneven pacing during the middle chunk, as it took me quite awhile to finish this relatively short book, at least by fantasy standards. The cover is truly a work of art, and it ties in nicely to the story. If you’re looking for high fantasy and enjoy carrying around a physical book copy that won’t break your wrists and double as a door stop, give this one a try.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
March 19, 2023
List of popular booktok books I actually like:
- Godkiller
End of list.
- Godkiller
End of list.
April 7, 2023
I was so excited to pick this up! I’d seen some great reviews, the synopsis sounded great and the cover is absolutely stunning. Unfortunately this was probably my most disappointing read in recent memory.
I don’t even know where to start on the issues I had with Godkiller, but here it goes.
The plot started strong, I’ll give it that. For the first 20-30% of the book I was invested and wanted to see where it was going, but then the plot started to rapidly go downhill. I considered DNF’ing at 50%, but I read this as a buddy read and decided to power through.
The ending felt rushed and so much of it made no sense, but in all honest by last 30 pages I was skim reading just to get it done with.
There is no way to dress this up, the book is poorly written. I’m not going to pretend I could write better, I couldn’t, but I can identify poor writing. The sentence structure is difficult to read, at many points I was finding myself re-reading paragraphs multiple times to make them make sense.
The language used is basic at best. This has been listed as an adult novel, but I’ve read Middle Grade books with more complex writing, Only on a handful of occasions is speech described as anything other that ‘said’, this made the characters feel so emotionless and flat to the point it was hard to even care about them. If they don’t care enough to show emotion about their situation why should I?
My biggest issue with this book is the rep. The LGBT rep in this book has been praised no end, but nothing about the rep felt authentic to me. There are many queer characters in here, most of which are background characters. One of the main POVs I spent 70% of the book thinking was gay, then out of no where to advance the plot they are revealed to be bi. It was just poorly done.
If it’s not obvious already I will not be continuing with this series, I could complain more but I don’t want to give this book any more of my energy.
I don’t even know where to start on the issues I had with Godkiller, but here it goes.
The plot started strong, I’ll give it that. For the first 20-30% of the book I was invested and wanted to see where it was going, but then the plot started to rapidly go downhill. I considered DNF’ing at 50%, but I read this as a buddy read and decided to power through.
The ending felt rushed and so much of it made no sense, but in all honest by last 30 pages I was skim reading just to get it done with.
There is no way to dress this up, the book is poorly written. I’m not going to pretend I could write better, I couldn’t, but I can identify poor writing. The sentence structure is difficult to read, at many points I was finding myself re-reading paragraphs multiple times to make them make sense.
The language used is basic at best. This has been listed as an adult novel, but I’ve read Middle Grade books with more complex writing, Only on a handful of occasions is speech described as anything other that ‘said’, this made the characters feel so emotionless and flat to the point it was hard to even care about them. If they don’t care enough to show emotion about their situation why should I?
My biggest issue with this book is the rep. The LGBT rep in this book has been praised no end, but nothing about the rep felt authentic to me. There are many queer characters in here, most of which are background characters. One of the main POVs I spent 70% of the book thinking was gay, then out of no where to advance the plot they are revealed to be bi. It was just poorly done.
If it’s not obvious already I will not be continuing with this series, I could complain more but I don’t want to give this book any more of my energy.
February 5, 2023
6.14 on CAWPILE.
May 19, 2024
I can't believe Hannah Kaner had the audacity to write a book this fucking good! This may be my new favorite read of 2024. This is some seriously good fucking shit. The prologue ended with 💫“I love you,” he said, and threw her to the sea.💫 This was my undoing. However, I knew I was going to love this book the moment I saw that cover.
Plot:
After the great war in Blenraden where many fell at the hands of wild gods, gods are now outlawed in the kingdom of Middren. King Arren, who banished them, pays godkillers to destroy any new ones that may arise. When Kissen, a godkiller, happens upon a young noble child whose soul is bound to a tiny god of White Lies, she sets out on a journey back to the war-ruined city of Blenraden where she plans to ask a favor from a wild god to help the young girl solve her "god problem." Joined by a knight on his own secret quest to Blenraden, the small group are hunted by demons and must rely on each other to survive. Meanwhile, the kingdom is on the brink of civil war and something foul is festering in the heart of Blenraden...
Worldbuilding
The worldbuilding in this book is delicious. A fantasy novel that is written in a way in which you can imagine exactly where the characters are is the absolute crème de la crème. From Lesscia to Estfjor, Talicia to Blenraden--you can truly see the landscape like a painting.🌄 The worldbuilding is so intricate and beautifully written. My favorite place Kaner wrote about is Gefyrton--a little city tucked away within granite cliffs and large, billowy waterfalls along a large riverscape.⛰️🏞️ I can definitely imagine myself living there. The world Kaner created is absolutely magical.
Characters:
The characters in Godkiller will go down as some of my all-time favorites. The book is written from four POVs so we will hit on all four characters. Starting with Kissen. We all know I love an asshole, and Kissen is a certified A+, obstinate, dauntless asshole. She is also a hella queer, disabled queen with a scarred up face and an even more scarred personality, which I love. Kissen may have built her walls high, but that doesn't mean she never lets anyone in. She was orphaned and abused at a young age, but learned resiliency and came out stronger.💪🏽We stan a fucking badass bitch who not only knows how to fight with her fists but can throw verbal hands as well!
💫"Fate was a fairy story and a bullshit one at that; fate could get fucked and go bother someone else."
We also follow Elogast, formerly the King's best friend and most trusted knight commander, now suffering from PTSD after the great war and currently working as a baker.👨🏽🍳 Elo is such a sweet opposition to Kessin's harsh personality. The two of them have such a fun dynamic. I also liked seeing his character shift from timid, knight-turned-baker to protective warrior when on the road.🦁
Inara and Skediceth are an interesting addition to the group dynamic. Inara starts out an innocent noble girl and experiences this great character arc when she has to learn to grow up much quicker than she originally planned. Skediceth, the tiny god of White Lies, grows with her.🐰🦌🐦 Gods' fates are so closely intertwined with humanity in this book, and you can clearly see that in the relationship between Skedi and Inara.
Overall Thoughts:
Fantasy books don't usually shy away from divine beings such as gods or other celestial entities. But in Kaner's world, gods cannot exist unless people believe in them and pray to them. Offerings must be made and shrines must be built so that they can survive. This concept is so different from other books I've read. I also love how the characters in Godkiller are so dynamic, well-rounded, and loveable. I instantly connected with them. The book is queer-normative and has so much disability representation in it as well which is awesome to see. This fantasy novel is five stars through and through and I would highly recommend it. I cannot wait to read Sunbringer.☀️
💫“You are worth more than you think. You are still alive; make something of it. Of life, not death.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Plot:
After the great war in Blenraden where many fell at the hands of wild gods, gods are now outlawed in the kingdom of Middren. King Arren, who banished them, pays godkillers to destroy any new ones that may arise. When Kissen, a godkiller, happens upon a young noble child whose soul is bound to a tiny god of White Lies, she sets out on a journey back to the war-ruined city of Blenraden where she plans to ask a favor from a wild god to help the young girl solve her "god problem." Joined by a knight on his own secret quest to Blenraden, the small group are hunted by demons and must rely on each other to survive. Meanwhile, the kingdom is on the brink of civil war and something foul is festering in the heart of Blenraden...
Worldbuilding
The worldbuilding in this book is delicious. A fantasy novel that is written in a way in which you can imagine exactly where the characters are is the absolute crème de la crème. From Lesscia to Estfjor, Talicia to Blenraden--you can truly see the landscape like a painting.🌄 The worldbuilding is so intricate and beautifully written. My favorite place Kaner wrote about is Gefyrton--a little city tucked away within granite cliffs and large, billowy waterfalls along a large riverscape.⛰️🏞️ I can definitely imagine myself living there. The world Kaner created is absolutely magical.
Characters:
The characters in Godkiller will go down as some of my all-time favorites. The book is written from four POVs so we will hit on all four characters. Starting with Kissen. We all know I love an asshole, and Kissen is a certified A+, obstinate, dauntless asshole. She is also a hella queer, disabled queen with a scarred up face and an even more scarred personality, which I love. Kissen may have built her walls high, but that doesn't mean she never lets anyone in. She was orphaned and abused at a young age, but learned resiliency and came out stronger.💪🏽We stan a fucking badass bitch who not only knows how to fight with her fists but can throw verbal hands as well!
💫"Fate was a fairy story and a bullshit one at that; fate could get fucked and go bother someone else."
We also follow Elogast, formerly the King's best friend and most trusted knight commander, now suffering from PTSD after the great war and currently working as a baker.👨🏽🍳 Elo is such a sweet opposition to Kessin's harsh personality. The two of them have such a fun dynamic. I also liked seeing his character shift from timid, knight-turned-baker to protective warrior when on the road.🦁
Inara and Skediceth are an interesting addition to the group dynamic. Inara starts out an innocent noble girl and experiences this great character arc when she has to learn to grow up much quicker than she originally planned. Skediceth, the tiny god of White Lies, grows with her.🐰🦌🐦 Gods' fates are so closely intertwined with humanity in this book, and you can clearly see that in the relationship between Skedi and Inara.
Overall Thoughts:
Fantasy books don't usually shy away from divine beings such as gods or other celestial entities. But in Kaner's world, gods cannot exist unless people believe in them and pray to them. Offerings must be made and shrines must be built so that they can survive. This concept is so different from other books I've read. I also love how the characters in Godkiller are so dynamic, well-rounded, and loveable. I instantly connected with them. The book is queer-normative and has so much disability representation in it as well which is awesome to see. This fantasy novel is five stars through and through and I would highly recommend it. I cannot wait to read Sunbringer.☀️
💫“You are worth more than you think. You are still alive; make something of it. Of life, not death.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
June 8, 2023
If there’s one thing I love, it’s wounded people coming together to make each other feel a little less alone in the world (what I hope I get to experience for myself someday) What a beautiful book. All of the stars and full RTC.
—————————————————
I’m almost half way through and absolutely ADORING this. Skedi has my entire heart. Thank you so much Harper Voyager for the ARC!
—————————————————
I’m almost half way through and absolutely ADORING this. Skedi has my entire heart. Thank you so much Harper Voyager for the ARC!
February 6, 2026
Не пригадаю навіть, коли востаннє я читала фентезі з настільки живими й вибудованими характерами персонажів й таким незвичним світом. А троп «знайдена родина» в цій книзі для мене тепер просто взірець. Це було добре, звісно, зі склом, з купою скла, бо світ богів — і людей, що їх люблять і бажають чогось від них, — підступний, жорстокий і кривавий, можливо, не настільки динамічно, як очікується від фентези, але так добре, що я не хочу шукати недоліки. Для мене їх немає. Я мала високі очікування від цієї книжки і для мене вони усі справдилися. Це ковток свіжого повітря, 5/5 і одразу ж без жодних порівнянь в найліпші прочитані книжки за 2026.
April 15, 2024
Oh, wow. This was… bad, really bad. I expected this to be fantasy while in fact this is a young-adult novel that feels like it was written by a teenager.
Kissen (I’m sorry but as a German, I’m having a hard time with this name…), our queer, one-legged hero, goes on an adventure with a former knight, childhood friend of the king, a spoilt brat, Inara, from a noble house - a house that was literally burned down, including Inara’s beloved servants, and mother. Inara also has a pest problem, manifesting as a god (of white lies).
Among that lies naive romance, attempted-coming-of-age, fantasy-lite and a looooong journey that drags and drags and… You get the gist.
The writing is also mediocre at best and, even worse, errors abound: »Kissen wasn’t going to let him stupid that easily.«
Thankfully, that was the most aggravating mistake but, still, a disgrace.
I’m abandoning this at 70% to later slumber on my Kissen.
One star out of five.
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Ceterum censeo Putin esse delendam
Kissen (I’m sorry but as a German, I’m having a hard time with this name…), our queer, one-legged hero, goes on an adventure with a former knight, childhood friend of the king, a spoilt brat, Inara, from a noble house - a house that was literally burned down, including Inara’s beloved servants, and mother. Inara also has a pest problem, manifesting as a god (of white lies).
Among that lies naive romance, attempted-coming-of-age, fantasy-lite and a looooong journey that drags and drags and… You get the gist.
The writing is also mediocre at best and, even worse, errors abound: »Kissen wasn’t going to let him stupid that easily.«
Thankfully, that was the most aggravating mistake but, still, a disgrace.
I’m abandoning this at 70% to later slumber on my Kissen.
One star out of five.
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Ceterum censeo Putin esse delendam
March 18, 2024
Bulgarian review first, followed by the English translation below
Качественото фентъзи устоява на капризния, секунден пазарен интерес, ако носи послания и концепции. За моя радост това заглавие е от този тип, а не от сензационно ориентираните еднодневки с пикантен микс от насилие, дидактика, умишлено насадена инфантилност у героите и нанесени по стандартен рецептурник политически коректни обрати в сюжета (неприемливи по рецептурника обрати не са позволени и не се случват).
Богоборството (от Прометей и Тома Неверни насам) е онази нишка в човешката история, която е довела до най-много войни и клади за изповядващите го. Когато една вяра се сведе до циментирана религия, а религията се сведе до бюрократично и властово управляемо идолопоконничество и уютно за страхливите душички суеверие, значи има проблем. Проблем, с който човечеството си живее и днес, но за разлика от миналото поне има по-голям избор от пътища и комбинации. Това не е малко. Различията имат някакъв “мегдан” за проява. А знанието е по-достъпно.
Тук Хана Кейнър е хванала бика за рогата. Мидрен е бил изпепелен три години по-рано от ужасяваща война между хора и богове. Боговете, подхранени от човешкия ламтеж за власт и богатство, са станали неумолими. А подвластните им хора - опасни за останалите си събратя. В резултат древният град Бленрейдън днес е куп полузакърпени руини, а из царството шестват убийци на богове и се задава нова гражданска война. Но макар и победени, боговете все още са там, дърпайки струните на навика, комфорта, суеверието, нуждата от сляпо упование в нещо по-висше. И все още изпълняват желания, но никога безплатно.
Цената е винаги в ущърб на просителите на божествено благоволение. И без да знаят, че са се устремили към такова, се пресичат пътищата на четиримата герои. Кисен е наемник и убийца на богове с ужасяващо минало. Елогаст се опитва да изкупи минали грехове с покаяние и спокоен живот. Инара се опитва да открие пътя си в света извън задушаващата закрила на властната си майка. А Скедисет е на пръв поглед безобиден мъничък бог на благородните лъжи, който иска да оцелее във враждебен към боговете свят…и ако може да си намери мъничко свое светилище, където да получава скромни приношения.
Образите са силни и плътни, дори и кратко появилите се, действието като цяло нито се влачи, нито препуска. Атмосферата е осезаема, въздухът буквално вибрира с проблемите и ежедневието на този измислен средновековен свят. Много ми хареса самото светоизграждане, свежо е, макар на моменти Кейнър да прекалява със съсредоточаването на твърде много бои на едно място. Типичен пример е образът на Кисен - поне една от характерните и черти можеше да бъде спестена, без сюжетът да изгуби нещо. Ако ще и проклетият златен зъб, например! Също така краят дойде малко забързан, но пък се оказа митологично зрелищен, и сега ще се наложи да хукна към втората част.
Наистина свежа глътка въздух е липсата на вече дежурните и досадни мотиви с вещици, вампири, магьосници, дракони и от сорта. Тук играта се води на епично ниво, в стил “Залезът на боговете” по скандинавски (но не само, не само!), и определено не е приключила в тази първа част.
4,5⭐️ - о, ще си закръгля нагоре, с твърде голям кеф я изчетох
———
▶️ Цитати:
⚔️“Беше по-трудно да унищожиш бог, отколкото да го създадеш.”
⚔️“…хората не сe променят само защото си им казал.”
⚔️“Затова на хората са им нужни благородни лъжи, нали? За да ги защитят от истина, която би причинила болка.”
⚔️“Хората…се нуждаят от богове. […] Отчаяно ги търсят, за да се спасят от ежедневието си.”
⚔️“Боговете не приемат добре забравата.”
⚔️“Хората създават боговете и за добро или лошо, боговете променят хората.”
Качественото фентъзи устоява на капризния, секунден пазарен интерес, ако носи послания и концепции. За моя радост това заглавие е от този тип, а не от сензационно ориентираните еднодневки с пикантен микс от насилие, дидактика, умишлено насадена инфантилност у героите и нанесени по стандартен рецептурник политически коректни обрати в сюжета (неприемливи по рецептурника обрати не са позволени и не се случват).
Богоборството (от Прометей и Тома Неверни насам) е онази нишка в човешката история, която е довела до най-много войни и клади за изповядващите го. Когато една вяра се сведе до циментирана религия, а религията се сведе до бюрократично и властово управляемо идолопоконничество и уютно за страхливите душички суеверие, значи има проблем. Проблем, с който човечеството си живее и днес, но за разлика от миналото поне има по-голям избор от пътища и комбинации. Това не е малко. Различията имат някакъв “мегдан” за проява. А знанието е по-достъпно.
Тук Хана Кейнър е хванала бика за рогата. Мидрен е бил изпепелен три години по-рано от ужасяваща война между хора и богове. Боговете, подхранени от човешкия ламтеж за власт и богатство, са станали неумолими. А подвластните им хора - опасни за останалите си събратя. В резултат древният град Бленрейдън днес е куп полузакърпени руини, а из царството шестват убийци на богове и се задава нова гражданска война. Но макар и победени, боговете все още са там, дърпайки струните на навика, комфорта, суеверието, нуждата от сляпо упование в нещо по-висше. И все още изпълняват желания, но никога безплатно.
Цената е винаги в ущърб на просителите на божествено благоволение. И без да знаят, че са се устремили към такова, се пресичат пътищата на четиримата герои. Кисен е наемник и убийца на богове с ужасяващо минало. Елогаст се опитва да изкупи минали грехове с покаяние и спокоен живот. Инара се опитва да открие пътя си в света извън задушаващата закрила на властната си майка. А Скедисет е на пръв поглед безобиден мъничък бог на благородните лъжи, който иска да оцелее във враждебен към боговете свят…и ако може да си намери мъничко свое светилище, където да получава скромни приношения.
Образите са силни и плътни, дори и кратко появилите се, действието като цяло нито се влачи, нито препуска. Атмосферата е осезаема, въздухът буквално вибрира с проблемите и ежедневието на този измислен средновековен свят. Много ми хареса самото светоизграждане, свежо е, макар на моменти Кейнър да прекалява със съсредоточаването на твърде много бои на едно място. Типичен пример е образът на Кисен - поне една от характерните и черти можеше да бъде спестена, без сюжетът да изгуби нещо. Ако ще и проклетият златен зъб, например! Също така краят дойде малко забързан, но пък се оказа митологично зрелищен, и сега ще се наложи да хукна към втората част.
Наистина свежа глътка въздух е липсата на вече дежурните и досадни мотиви с вещици, вампири, магьосници, дракони и от сорта. Тук играта се води на епично ниво, в стил “Залезът на боговете” по скандинавски (но не само, не само!), и определено не е приключила в тази първа част.
4,5⭐️ - о, ще си закръгля нагоре, с твърде голям кеф я изчетох
———
▶️ Цитати:
⚔️“Беше по-трудно да унищожиш бог, отколкото да го създадеш.”
⚔️“…хората не сe променят само защото си им казал.”
⚔️“Затова на хората са им нужни благородни лъжи, нали? За да ги защитят от истина, която би причинила болка.”
⚔️“Хората…се нуждаят от богове. […] Отчаяно ги търсят, за да се спасят от ежедневието си.”
⚔️“Боговете не приемат добре забравата.”
⚔️“Хората създават боговете и за добро или лошо, боговете променят хората.”
Quality fantasy withstands fickle, split-second market trends if it carries meaningful messages and concepts. To my delight, this title is exactly that kind—rather than one of those sensation-oriented, one-day wonders featuring a spicy mix of violence, didactics, intentionally planted infantilism in the characters, and politically correct plot twists applied straight from a standard recipe book (twists unacceptable by the recipe book are not allowed and simply do not happen).
The struggle against the gods (from Prometheus and Doubting Thomas onwards) is that very thread in human history that has led to the most wars and pyres for those who profess it. When a faith is reduced to a cemented religion, and religion is reduced to a bureaucratically and powerfully managed idolatry and a cozy superstition for fearful little souls, then there is a problem. A problem that humanity still lives with today, but unlike in the past, at least now there is a wider choice of paths and combinations. That is no small thing. Differences have some "room" to manifest. And knowledge is more accessible.
Here, Hannah Kaner has taken the bull by the horns. Midren was scorched three years prior by a horrifying war between humans and gods. The gods, fueled by human greed for power and wealth, became relentless. And the people under their sway—dangerous to their fellow men. As a result, the ancient city of Blenraden is now a heap of half-patched ruins, godkillers roam the kingdom, and a new civil war is looming. Yet, even though defeated, the gods are still there, pulling the strings of habit, comfort, superstition, and the need for blind reliance on something higher. And they still grant wishes, but never for free.
The price is always to the detriment of those begging for divine favor. And without knowing that they are rushing toward one, the paths of the four characters cross. Kissen is a mercenary and a godkiller with a horrifying past. Elogast is trying to redeem past sins with penance and a peaceful life. Inara is trying to find her way in the world outside the suffocating protection of her powerful mother. And Skedisset is, at first glance, a harmless little god of noble lies who just wants to survive in a world hostile to gods… and, if possible, find a tiny shrine of his own to receive modest offerings.
The characters are strong and well-fleshed out, even the short-lived ones, and the pace as a whole neither drags nor rushes. The atmosphere is tangible; the air literally vibrates with the problems and daily life of this fictional medieval world. I really liked the world-building itself—it's fresh, though at times Kaner overdoes it by concentrating too many colors in one place. A prime example is Kissen's character—at least one of her distinctive traits could have been spared without the plot losing a thing. Even that damn gold tooth, for instance! Also, the ending felt a bit rushed, but it turned out to be mythologically spectacular, and now I'll have to dash off to the second part.
It's a truly fresh breath of air to see the absence of the now mandatory and tedious tropes involving witches, vampires, sorcerers, dragons, and the like. Here, the game is played on an epic scale, in a Norse-style "Twilight of the Gods" fashion (but not only, not only!), and it is definitely not over in this first installment.
4.5⭐️ — oh, I'll round it up, I read it with way too much pleasure.
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