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Lands of the Firstborn #2
The Sword Unbound
He thought he was saving the world. That was his first mistake.Twenty years ago, Alf and his companions defeated the Dark Lord and claimed his city. Now, those few of the Nine that remain find themselves unwilling rebels, defying the authority of both the mortal lords they once served and the immortal king of the elves - the secret architect of everything they've ever known. Once lauded as a mighty hero, Alf is now labelled a traitor and hunted by the very gods he seeks to bring down. As desperate rebellion blazes across the land, Alf seeks the right path through a maze of conspiracy, wielding a weapon of evil. The black sword Spellbreaker, ever hungry for slaughter, has found its purpose in these dark days. But can Aelfric remain a hero, or is his legend tarnished forever?The Sword Unbound continues Gareth Hanrahan's acclaimed epic fantasy series of dark myth, daring warriors and bloodthirsty vengeance.Praise for The Sword 'The front runner for my book of the year . . . Fans of Gemmell and Abercrombie need this on their shelves' Ed McDonald, author of Blackwing'With a richly detailed narrative, well-drawn characters, epic battles, and political and religious intrigues, Hanrahan's outstanding first outing in the Lands of the Firstborn series will thrill fantasy readers - who will anxiously await the next book'Booklist'Both a love letter and evolution of the epic fantasy novel . . . The Sword Defiant is an epic tale of how no world stands still forever . . . Highly recommended!Run Along the Shelves'Hanrahan is one of the best in the business at creating fantasy worlds that feel alive . . . I'll read any book that Gareth Hanrahan writes'The Fantasy Inn
661 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
49 people are currently reading
1084 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
May 11, 2024
I would like to thank NetGalley and Orbit for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
First off, I loved Spellbreaker in this installment -probably even more than I did in Book 1- and suddenly OP magical talking swords might be my favourite thing to read right now, js! It's such a supreme rpg vibe and I stan!
Truthfully though, this was a bit of a slog...Alf spent the majority of this book hunting down old teammates embroiled in this, that and the other, and trying to convince them to not be assholes because of their shared glory days. And while he was one of the few I cared about, I pretty much hated everyone who wasn't him, Lath, Olva, Derwyn, Cu or Bor! That sounds like a lot, but no. There wasn't enough of them for me.
Alf's journey through disillusion wasn't a surprise, nor was the dimming shine of the Nine, fading with every two-faced stabbing or arrow to the almost death. But it was frustrating to read nonetheless, and after the many futile pages of Berys and Lae...my gawd if I could shake some sense into a giant man I would...
Also, Lath is my baby boy and should be protected at all costs.
But wasn't.
Would love it if someone (GH) gave a fk, and would send a big oaf to bring my boy home, yeah? Lath's aloneness is still choking me up, and trust that the stories/characters I personally found most compelling in this installment, were the ones that had real emotional substance behind them.
Moving on.
I absolutely loved Olva's arc, and also, I wished GH gave us a more empowered Derwyn. Kiddo could potentially be a badass, so I hope Book 3 has something immense brewing on the horizon!
Despite my feelings about most of this book's focus, the last quarter was still pretty rad and I'm alright with the way Book 2 ended. Very much hoping that Lands of the Firstborn will deliver a bit more of an emotionally impactful story, because the pieces are there to elevate this series to another level, but I guess it will depend on what Book 3 has in store for the surviving Nine, and the people left (to) who love them!
First off, I loved Spellbreaker in this installment -probably even more than I did in Book 1- and suddenly OP magical talking swords might be my favourite thing to read right now, js! It's such a supreme rpg vibe and I stan!
Truthfully though, this was a bit of a slog...Alf spent the majority of this book hunting down old teammates embroiled in this, that and the other, and trying to convince them to not be assholes because of their shared glory days. And while he was one of the few I cared about, I pretty much hated everyone who wasn't him, Lath, Olva, Derwyn, Cu or Bor! That sounds like a lot, but no. There wasn't enough of them for me.
Alf's journey through disillusion wasn't a surprise, nor was the dimming shine of the Nine, fading with every two-faced stabbing or arrow to the almost death. But it was frustrating to read nonetheless, and after the many futile pages of Berys and Lae...my gawd if I could shake some sense into a giant man I would...
Also, Lath is my baby boy and should be protected at all costs.
But wasn't.
Would love it if someone (GH) gave a fk, and would send a big oaf to bring my boy home, yeah? Lath's aloneness is still choking me up, and trust that the stories/characters I personally found most compelling in this installment, were the ones that had real emotional substance behind them.
Moving on.
I absolutely loved Olva's arc, and also, I wished GH gave us a more empowered Derwyn. Kiddo could potentially be a badass, so I hope Book 3 has something immense brewing on the horizon!
Despite my feelings about most of this book's focus, the last quarter was still pretty rad and I'm alright with the way Book 2 ended. Very much hoping that Lands of the Firstborn will deliver a bit more of an emotionally impactful story, because the pieces are there to elevate this series to another level, but I guess it will depend on what Book 3 has in store for the surviving Nine, and the people left (to) who love them!
May 9, 2024
3.5 Stars
Video Review: https://youtu.be/OqKPLv-OPAc
This is a solid sequel in this epic fantasy series. I enjoyed the first book, but I will acknowledge that it was very traditional. As someone who prefers more unique or innovative stories, this one just felt safe and perhaps a bit predictable. The second book is quite similar.
That being said, I think this author has good prose with solid character and worldbuilding. I just wish this series had the uniqueness that made me fall in love with the Gutter Prayer. This series is good but I still prefer the author's first series.
If you are interested in this epic fantasy series, I strongly recommend going back to the beginning with The Sword Defiant.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/OqKPLv-OPAc
This is a solid sequel in this epic fantasy series. I enjoyed the first book, but I will acknowledge that it was very traditional. As someone who prefers more unique or innovative stories, this one just felt safe and perhaps a bit predictable. The second book is quite similar.
That being said, I think this author has good prose with solid character and worldbuilding. I just wish this series had the uniqueness that made me fall in love with the Gutter Prayer. This series is good but I still prefer the author's first series.
If you are interested in this epic fantasy series, I strongly recommend going back to the beginning with The Sword Defiant.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
March 14, 2024
Gareth Hanrahan writes big idea fantasy. By that I mean that he isn't satisfied with merely telling an entertaining fantasy story that follows the popular formula. Rather, he mixes in crazy elements like inanimate objects that can think, talk, and act. His settings aren't your standard fantasy locales either, they usually have a life of their own and are almost living breathing characters themselves, as we see so magnificently in his ongoing Black Iron Legacy series (a must read by the way). Getting back to his current series though, THE SWORD UNBOUND continues the Lands of the Firstborn story that began with the awesome opener The Sword Defiant. And it continues it in fascinating fashion I might add.
Diving into this sequel after being absolutely blown away by its predecessor was a little unnerving to be honest. The first book was so good that I hoped I would be just as dazzled by this one. I needn't have worried because THE SWORD UNBOUND expands the scope of the overall story and delivers some of the best and darkest fantasy I've experienced in a while. It's hard not to enjoy a book that includes the dead city Necrad, cloaked in secrets and malicious magic, zombies risen from the dead to terrorize the populace, past/present heroes of legend like The NINE who are each individually flawed causing them to at times engage in a power struggle that could threaten the future for everyone, and a pain in the ass sword that although as powerful as any weapon ever crafted, isn't always the most pleasant or cooperative most of the time.
Does any of this make you want to read this series? Because it sure as hell should! And that's what I mean when I say that Hanrahan doesn't settle for writing "standard" or "safe" fantasy. You are always going to be challenged, made uncomfortable, experience things that you almost never see in a fantasy novel, and oh have an incredible amount of fun along the way. I had an absolute blast reading THE SWORD UNBOUND and at times I just couldn't be bothered to do anything else but read this book. It's tough to get better when you are already writing some of the best fantasy stories out there, but if it is possible than I believe Gareth Hanrahan is doing just that. Sometimes I can't believe the risks he takes and the boundaries he pushes, but it always finishes like a masterpiece painting or a brilliant concerto.
Ultimately though my favorite part of this book, as with any Hanrahan book, is his crazy inventive and atmospheric settings. I mentioned that they are almost characters in their own right and I truly mean that. I'm amazed at how vividly both Necrad and its surrounding cities and forests are portrayed. There's an ominous feel to everyone and everything who populate them, whether they be humans, dwarves, witch elves, vampires or goblins. And those are just a sampling of the types of characters you will come across. Honestly there's just so many things to keep you engaged in this book and series and if you don't have it on your to-read shelf, you are missing out on such a magical journey.
Ultimately I really enjoyed this sequel so much. It's a fast-paced read for a book of its 600+ page length and continues to wow with a story that is second to none. This is everything you could ever want in an engrossing fantasy novel that hits you with one mind-blowing scene after another. Come for the cranky sentient talking sword and legendary heroes of old, stay for the next level worldbuilding, dark magic, and intense scheming/treachery. A one of a kind fantasy and another stunning achievement from Gareth Hanrahan that will leave you wanting that next book in your hands yesterday.
Diving into this sequel after being absolutely blown away by its predecessor was a little unnerving to be honest. The first book was so good that I hoped I would be just as dazzled by this one. I needn't have worried because THE SWORD UNBOUND expands the scope of the overall story and delivers some of the best and darkest fantasy I've experienced in a while. It's hard not to enjoy a book that includes the dead city Necrad, cloaked in secrets and malicious magic, zombies risen from the dead to terrorize the populace, past/present heroes of legend like The NINE who are each individually flawed causing them to at times engage in a power struggle that could threaten the future for everyone, and a pain in the ass sword that although as powerful as any weapon ever crafted, isn't always the most pleasant or cooperative most of the time.
Does any of this make you want to read this series? Because it sure as hell should! And that's what I mean when I say that Hanrahan doesn't settle for writing "standard" or "safe" fantasy. You are always going to be challenged, made uncomfortable, experience things that you almost never see in a fantasy novel, and oh have an incredible amount of fun along the way. I had an absolute blast reading THE SWORD UNBOUND and at times I just couldn't be bothered to do anything else but read this book. It's tough to get better when you are already writing some of the best fantasy stories out there, but if it is possible than I believe Gareth Hanrahan is doing just that. Sometimes I can't believe the risks he takes and the boundaries he pushes, but it always finishes like a masterpiece painting or a brilliant concerto.
Ultimately though my favorite part of this book, as with any Hanrahan book, is his crazy inventive and atmospheric settings. I mentioned that they are almost characters in their own right and I truly mean that. I'm amazed at how vividly both Necrad and its surrounding cities and forests are portrayed. There's an ominous feel to everyone and everything who populate them, whether they be humans, dwarves, witch elves, vampires or goblins. And those are just a sampling of the types of characters you will come across. Honestly there's just so many things to keep you engaged in this book and series and if you don't have it on your to-read shelf, you are missing out on such a magical journey.
Ultimately I really enjoyed this sequel so much. It's a fast-paced read for a book of its 600+ page length and continues to wow with a story that is second to none. This is everything you could ever want in an engrossing fantasy novel that hits you with one mind-blowing scene after another. Come for the cranky sentient talking sword and legendary heroes of old, stay for the next level worldbuilding, dark magic, and intense scheming/treachery. A one of a kind fantasy and another stunning achievement from Gareth Hanrahan that will leave you wanting that next book in your hands yesterday.
December 17, 2025
The first book holds a special place in my heart, so I was hoping book two would be even better and finally hit five stars.
Unfortunately, the already slow pace got even slower, and so much of the book felt like filler content, with very few things actually happening.
But that doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy it as a whole, or that I don't love Alf to death, no sir.
I also had a blast with the worldbuilding, and character development, those were the highlights of the book for me. I wish we saw more of the Nine though, there were some interesting choices made about which characters to feature instead of them.
At least Olva had her chance to shine, she was probably my favourite this time around (don't tell Spellbreaker I said that).
I'm looking forward to book three anyway, hopefully it'll pick up the pace a little, also, I like that I have no idea how it's going to end.
Pre read:
FINALLY A SEQUEL 👁️👄👁️
Unfortunately, the already slow pace got even slower, and so much of the book felt like filler content, with very few things actually happening.
But that doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy it as a whole, or that I don't love Alf to death, no sir.
I also had a blast with the worldbuilding, and character development, those were the highlights of the book for me. I wish we saw more of the Nine though, there were some interesting choices made about which characters to feature instead of them.
At least Olva had her chance to shine, she was probably my favourite this time around (don't tell Spellbreaker I said that).
I'm looking forward to book three anyway, hopefully it'll pick up the pace a little, also, I like that I have no idea how it's going to end.
Pre read:
FINALLY A SEQUEL 👁️👄👁️
July 25, 2025
Sadly, this five star series prediction has let me down.
It wasn’t bad. It was just very similar to so many of the other fantasy books I have read. From the storyline to the characters.
I went into this series expecting subversion and a unique take on the old-trodden fantasy narrative. Instead, it squanders potential and retells the traditional fantasy tale.
There were no true heroes out there, just rich bastards on thrones, or cruel bastards with swords, or magic bastards with spells, or stupid bastards squatting in farms watching life go by.
I liked how the author commented on how he past is always regarded through rose-tinted glasses. How different people experience, remember, reflect on events differently. How you can be haunted by your own legend.
Interestingly, we start with Bor’s perspective - a character that has a distinct voice, a despicable sense of morality and honour, and conflicting beliefs.
Then, we return to a more travelling quest following Alf with more political snippets from Olva.
I didn’t feel any connection to the characters and my interest was not peaked enough to continue on to book three, unfortunately.
Despite there being a talking demon sword.
Physical arc gifted by Orbit Books.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
It wasn’t bad. It was just very similar to so many of the other fantasy books I have read. From the storyline to the characters.
I went into this series expecting subversion and a unique take on the old-trodden fantasy narrative. Instead, it squanders potential and retells the traditional fantasy tale.
There were no true heroes out there, just rich bastards on thrones, or cruel bastards with swords, or magic bastards with spells, or stupid bastards squatting in farms watching life go by.
I liked how the author commented on how he past is always regarded through rose-tinted glasses. How different people experience, remember, reflect on events differently. How you can be haunted by your own legend.
Interestingly, we start with Bor’s perspective - a character that has a distinct voice, a despicable sense of morality and honour, and conflicting beliefs.
Then, we return to a more travelling quest following Alf with more political snippets from Olva.
I didn’t feel any connection to the characters and my interest was not peaked enough to continue on to book three, unfortunately.
Despite there being a talking demon sword.
Physical arc gifted by Orbit Books.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
May 5, 2024
The Sword Unbound
by Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan
Lands of the Firstborn #2
Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: May 7, 2024
Orbit Books
Ages: 18+
In his attempt at saving the world, again, Alf is labeled a traitor. His sister and nephew are back from (spoiler), and something came with him, also they are 'ruling' the city.
The first fifty pages of this story were interesting, but that ended because there were so many extra paragraphs that didn't want to end. It was like being beaten with words.
I pushed myself, but at 70% I started skimming. I couldn't take the rambling as the characters went through their 'day' because nothing felt real. It felt like a school teacher giving a monotone lecture about what was happening, and then repeating things a few pages/chapters.
The 'glimpses' into the past, present, and future, didn't add to the 'magic', because the way it was told, not shown, took the magic and interest away.
There was no action; the characters only seemed to go from here to there, and then talked to each other about what had just happened and what they wanted to do about it. The 'creatures' were mostly only mentioned and most not honorably.
This book was telling me a story, not showing, and I got so bored that I didn't care anymore. I ended up jumping to the last chapter and even though there's a book three, I will not be reading it!
1 Star
by Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan
Lands of the Firstborn #2
Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: May 7, 2024
Orbit Books
Ages: 18+
In his attempt at saving the world, again, Alf is labeled a traitor. His sister and nephew are back from (spoiler), and something came with him, also they are 'ruling' the city.
The first fifty pages of this story were interesting, but that ended because there were so many extra paragraphs that didn't want to end. It was like being beaten with words.
I pushed myself, but at 70% I started skimming. I couldn't take the rambling as the characters went through their 'day' because nothing felt real. It felt like a school teacher giving a monotone lecture about what was happening, and then repeating things a few pages/chapters.
The 'glimpses' into the past, present, and future, didn't add to the 'magic', because the way it was told, not shown, took the magic and interest away.
There was no action; the characters only seemed to go from here to there, and then talked to each other about what had just happened and what they wanted to do about it. The 'creatures' were mostly only mentioned and most not honorably.
This book was telling me a story, not showing, and I got so bored that I didn't care anymore. I ended up jumping to the last chapter and even though there's a book three, I will not be reading it!
1 Star
Want to Read
November 19, 2024This cover is everything, so gorgeous + moody + unsettled. I mean, LOOK AT IT. ❤️🔥 Nothing is easy for poor Alf.
May 31, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
To say I was WAITING for this book would be an understatement. I absolutely loved the first and instalment and loved this one too. So much happened in this installment that the ending has me nervous about what will happen in the next book. Alf and Spellbreaker as always are my favorites. If I were Alf I'd have given into Spellvreaker immediately lol It's the one of two flaws I see in Alf. The other being how trusting he is with his fellow 9.
The book picks up pretty much where we left off in The Sword Defiant. I love one of the main themes of this book is what happens after the heroes win. The Nine are all flawed and those flaws have all been exasperated by the trauma of the war. Each member of the Nine is trying to find there place in the world after defeating Lord Bone but I think Lath and Alf are the two that struggle the most with this. Lath because he practically gets abandoned by everyone and Alf doesn't really understand how to be there for him. Alf struggles with accepting that they have all changed and are no longer the same people. As well as his denial of him being more than just a good strong guy.
The other theme I see that I like is that sometimes heroes can do bad or evil things. In my opinion we see this with several things that Blaze, Laerlyn, and Berys do. They all have good intentions and their hearts are in the right place but the ways they go about are anything but good. They all start up a chain of events that are the climax of the book. From the ending of the book things seem to have settled but if we've learned anything from this world that's probably far from true.
I was happy to see the return of some of my favorite side characters. In particular Bor and Cu. Obviously the dog in any book will always be a favorite of mine. Both of their story lines did not disappoint and was happy to see some chapters from Bor's pov.
I definitely recommend this book and series if you're a fan of epic fantasies that are on the grittier side with great banter. I can't wait to see what happens to all of my favorites and I hope the third book comes out soon!
To say I was WAITING for this book would be an understatement. I absolutely loved the first and instalment and loved this one too. So much happened in this installment that the ending has me nervous about what will happen in the next book. Alf and Spellbreaker as always are my favorites. If I were Alf I'd have given into Spellvreaker immediately lol It's the one of two flaws I see in Alf. The other being how trusting he is with his fellow 9.
The book picks up pretty much where we left off in The Sword Defiant. I love one of the main themes of this book is what happens after the heroes win. The Nine are all flawed and those flaws have all been exasperated by the trauma of the war. Each member of the Nine is trying to find there place in the world after defeating Lord Bone but I think Lath and Alf are the two that struggle the most with this. Lath because he practically gets abandoned by everyone and Alf doesn't really understand how to be there for him. Alf struggles with accepting that they have all changed and are no longer the same people. As well as his denial of him being more than just a good strong guy.
The other theme I see that I like is that sometimes heroes can do bad or evil things. In my opinion we see this with several things that Blaze, Laerlyn, and Berys do. They all have good intentions and their hearts are in the right place but the ways they go about are anything but good. They all start up a chain of events that are the climax of the book. From the ending of the book things seem to have settled but if we've learned anything from this world that's probably far from true.
I was happy to see the return of some of my favorite side characters. In particular Bor and Cu. Obviously the dog in any book will always be a favorite of mine. Both of their story lines did not disappoint and was happy to see some chapters from Bor's pov.
I definitely recommend this book and series if you're a fan of epic fantasies that are on the grittier side with great banter. I can't wait to see what happens to all of my favorites and I hope the third book comes out soon!
October 12, 2024
Mr Hanrahan is at the top of his game here. Everything I loved about The Sword Defiant is continued and expanded upon, from the familiar-yet-fresh setting and worldbuilding, top-notch character relationships (Spellbreaker interacting with literally everyone is consistently fantastic), and intricately woven plotting. This series feels tailor-made for me - as a massive fan of Tolkien and classic fantasy worlds, I ate up every page like a Michelin star meal.
I also continued to really enjoy Mr Hanrahan’s prose. He has a good grasp of authorial voice, imbuing his prose with his own character - he has found a way of walking the line between stylised and straightforward writing in such a way as to find an appropriate balance.
I found the way Mr Hanrahan balanced his multiple storylines intriguing, switching between a few POV characters in a way that really worked for me, and each one found a way to sink its hooks into me. This is definitely going into my top books of the year for sure.
Very much looking forward to book 3 next year! Now onto Black Iron Legacy books 2 and 3 😍
I also continued to really enjoy Mr Hanrahan’s prose. He has a good grasp of authorial voice, imbuing his prose with his own character - he has found a way of walking the line between stylised and straightforward writing in such a way as to find an appropriate balance.
I found the way Mr Hanrahan balanced his multiple storylines intriguing, switching between a few POV characters in a way that really worked for me, and each one found a way to sink its hooks into me. This is definitely going into my top books of the year for sure.
Very much looking forward to book 3 next year! Now onto Black Iron Legacy books 2 and 3 😍
July 11, 2025
I loved this book as much as the first. It reminded me why I fell in love with fantasy as a teenager.
The worldbuilding and descriptions continued to be epic and I was genuinely in fear for Alf’s life at times. There were brilliant twists and turns and betrayals and I finished the book feeling emotionally drained.
The only thing that stopped this being 5 stars for me was the lack of battles. The land is being ripped apart by rebellion and we see very little action. We don’t see the sieges or battles except through the eyes of a bard. Now I get we only see what the main characters do, so I respect it would have been hard to show everything but I would have liked a little more in the way of fighting.
But this series has earned its place in my bookshelves never to removed because I loved Alf’s sword so damned much. It’s a brilliant series so go get it.
Full review to come on through the British Fantasy Society.
The worldbuilding and descriptions continued to be epic and I was genuinely in fear for Alf’s life at times. There were brilliant twists and turns and betrayals and I finished the book feeling emotionally drained.
The only thing that stopped this being 5 stars for me was the lack of battles. The land is being ripped apart by rebellion and we see very little action. We don’t see the sieges or battles except through the eyes of a bard. Now I get we only see what the main characters do, so I respect it would have been hard to show everything but I would have liked a little more in the way of fighting.
But this series has earned its place in my bookshelves never to removed because I loved Alf’s sword so damned much. It’s a brilliant series so go get it.
Full review to come on through the British Fantasy Society.
March 20, 2025
Ah… the dreaded fantasy book two… where the politics and world building take over and many readers are screaming for something to happen already!
The main characters are still present and others take more precedence and while my attention flagged her and there I was still curious enough to stay the course.
On to the final book, The Sword Triumphant, ARC provided by NetGalley
The main characters are still present and others take more precedence and while my attention flagged her and there I was still curious enough to stay the course.
On to the final book, The Sword Triumphant, ARC provided by NetGalley
April 17, 2026
Incredibly good. A tremendous followup and advancement to the first book in every way. Characters, plot arcs, surprise reveals, narrative structure, and beautiful language are all on full display here, making this a huge accomplishment in high fantasy and, for me, an instant favorite—the series belongs in the highest echelon of fantasy.
January 16, 2026
A very good follow up to the Sword Defiant. Nicely paced high fantasy with a bit of snarky humor and the sarcasm and mayhem that's expected from novels of this type. Highly recommended
January 20, 2025
Another stellar tale from Gareth Hanrahan! I enjoyed this even more than book one of the series. The author really deepened the characters and expanded the lore. As always, Hanrahan's fluid prose makes for an enjoyable and rich reading experience and his vivid imagination puts him among the all-time top tier of fantasy authors in terms of worldbuilding.
I eagerly await the conclusion of this trilogy!
I eagerly await the conclusion of this trilogy!
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June 11, 2024The Sword Unbound builds on the events and themes from The Sword Defiant, book one in the series. Things continue to grow more desperate, with a disillusioned Alf realizing that perhaps blind obedience isn’t the best way to make decisions, especially when those decisions often have final consequences. My heart broke for him a little bit as he began to really see his fellow members of the Nine as flawed, possibly even villainous, people.
The author’s brilliant use of a twisted epic from a bard expands on this in a way that reminds the reader that heroism is based on who tells the tale afterwards. In the book, this shift in how Alf is portrayed is taken with mixed reactions, with a rebellion beginning to stir. This is where things get a little confusing for me. You see, technically a lot is going on. There are plots aplenty, the day-to-day running of an evil kingdom conquered by the “good” side, and questions of loyalty. However, not much seems to actually happen. The pace is much slower in The Sword Unbound. I don’t mind, as I found the added developments interesting, but it you’re looking for nonstop action, this won’t be the book for you.
The characters continue to grow and shift like sand, with trustworthiness being a sliding scale. As with real people, the characters in the book are flawed. I love seeing morally gray characters and watching them all try to justify their actions. No one ever sees themself as the villain, after all.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Spellbreaker. Like a certain Ring, the sword Spellbreaker whispers in its owner’s mind, creating doubt and making increasingly bloodthirsty offers. I really loved that it is a character in its own right. The way Alf interacts with Spellbreaker and how it capitalizes and vocalizes Alf’s own insecurities is fantastic. In fact, their interactions almost stole the show.
The Sword Unbound continues an epic that takes the common ideas of good triumphing over evil and twists things until you wonder how someone defines “good” and how many bad decisions it takes to wash away that classification. Highly recommended.
Thank you to Orbit Books and Angela Man for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion. The Sword Unbound is available now.
The author’s brilliant use of a twisted epic from a bard expands on this in a way that reminds the reader that heroism is based on who tells the tale afterwards. In the book, this shift in how Alf is portrayed is taken with mixed reactions, with a rebellion beginning to stir. This is where things get a little confusing for me. You see, technically a lot is going on. There are plots aplenty, the day-to-day running of an evil kingdom conquered by the “good” side, and questions of loyalty. However, not much seems to actually happen. The pace is much slower in The Sword Unbound. I don’t mind, as I found the added developments interesting, but it you’re looking for nonstop action, this won’t be the book for you.
The characters continue to grow and shift like sand, with trustworthiness being a sliding scale. As with real people, the characters in the book are flawed. I love seeing morally gray characters and watching them all try to justify their actions. No one ever sees themself as the villain, after all.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Spellbreaker. Like a certain Ring, the sword Spellbreaker whispers in its owner’s mind, creating doubt and making increasingly bloodthirsty offers. I really loved that it is a character in its own right. The way Alf interacts with Spellbreaker and how it capitalizes and vocalizes Alf’s own insecurities is fantastic. In fact, their interactions almost stole the show.
The Sword Unbound continues an epic that takes the common ideas of good triumphing over evil and twists things until you wonder how someone defines “good” and how many bad decisions it takes to wash away that classification. Highly recommended.
Thank you to Orbit Books and Angela Man for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion. The Sword Unbound is available now.
May 2, 2024
So glad I was finally able to read this!
When I started reading this, I didn't think I would like it as much as the first one because it wasn't following any of the main characters. I was so invested in the Nine, and I just wanted more of them.
After continuing on, I get why it started that way and it's brilliant! Now I'm just sad that I have to wait for the next one.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an e-arc.
When I started reading this, I didn't think I would like it as much as the first one because it wasn't following any of the main characters. I was so invested in the Nine, and I just wanted more of them.
After continuing on, I get why it started that way and it's brilliant! Now I'm just sad that I have to wait for the next one.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an e-arc.
May 13, 2024
I love Gar's writing and this was no exception, I instantly slipped back into Lands of the Firstborn. I loved Olva's journey in this book, and it also did a great job of putting us in Alf's shoes when it came to working out who to trust but at no point was that confusing. I loved the moments that made you reinterpret a scene from two hundred pages before.
These are just the right flavour of fantasy for me, some big concepts and world shattering consequences but ultimately it's about these characters.
These are just the right flavour of fantasy for me, some big concepts and world shattering consequences but ultimately it's about these characters.
June 4, 2024
Absolutely fantastic, but then again I would expect nothing else from this author.
I was impressed when the previous instalment took a the generic fantasy setting and made it fresh and interesting, and this book somehow made it even better. There are countless book series where I end up feeling a little disappointed the more the setting is explored and mysteries are revealed, but with Hanrahan it only ever gets cooler.
I was impressed when the previous instalment took a the generic fantasy setting and made it fresh and interesting, and this book somehow made it even better. There are countless book series where I end up feeling a little disappointed the more the setting is explored and mysteries are revealed, but with Hanrahan it only ever gets cooler.
September 10, 2024
Okay so, I'm still giving this 4 stars even though I also gave 4 stars to book 1 and I do think book 1 is better.
I enjoyed this one from a character growth perspective a ton. I truly think everyone needed to listen to the freaking sword because we could have cut this plot down a ton hahahaha
That was my biggest issue, the plot was so meandering in the middle but the back brought it back around for me! The ending was very Middle Earth vibes too which I liked!
I enjoyed this one from a character growth perspective a ton. I truly think everyone needed to listen to the freaking sword because we could have cut this plot down a ton hahahaha
That was my biggest issue, the plot was so meandering in the middle but the back brought it back around for me! The ending was very Middle Earth vibes too which I liked!
May 2, 2024
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I can't believe I read this book so quick. I picked up the first one some time ago and read it shortly before this. All I can say is wow....I didn't think I'd finish this book so quick. Picks right where left off with great character, plot, and world building. Highly recommend.
March 10, 2024
Excellent sequel to a very good book. This story continues with Alf an aged warrior hero trying to hold his world together when he is just not very equipped to think the deep thoughts about how to go about doing so. The demon sword Spellbreaker continues to be the foremost personality in this story. But we also follow Olva's story as well as Bor's. The characters remain detailed and deep, the world well thought out and written and the plot twists back and forth in an Epic way. This is just plain an enjoyable read. It has a great magic system, fascinating places and a fascinating main character who didn't put enough points into his intelligence and perception stats. Very fun book, thank you to Netgalley and Orbit for letting me read this book.
September 21, 2024
It was only a few days ago that I finished part 1 of this series. I said that the book was great but ended with some irritating ambiguity, and I gave it 4 stars.
I was wrong.
This is a brilliant story, and brilliantly told. Hanrahan captures the complexity of morality, with his characters moving not from black to white, but in the many shades of grey. It’s impossible not to feel connected to Alf and his struggle to make the right choices, and the other characters are so fleshed out that every aspect of the plot makes sense.
I listened to it on Audible and the narration was brilliant too.
I was wrong.
This is a brilliant story, and brilliantly told. Hanrahan captures the complexity of morality, with his characters moving not from black to white, but in the many shades of grey. It’s impossible not to feel connected to Alf and his struggle to make the right choices, and the other characters are so fleshed out that every aspect of the plot makes sense.
I listened to it on Audible and the narration was brilliant too.
Want to Read
March 2, 2024Just got an ARC! I love the cover art:) Guess I'll need to get on it, review to come soon:)
January 27, 2026
good adventure book loveable main character who will make you chuckle in parts all round solid book
April 1, 2024
Garath Hanrahan has done it once again. Created a uniquely dark fantasy with so much depth it feels as though you are in the world. The storytelling is written with such depth that the characters, atmosphere, and magic system are something you can grasp and be a part of. This is why this book is a 5 star review. This series is a 5 star review as well. I did have a harder time getting into this book but after the first 5 chapters I was hooked. Hanrahan's world building is so intricate that some readers might have to reread some parts, I know I did.
Hanrahan bring new depth to Alf, Spellbreaker, The Nine, Necrad, and the magic sytem that it really does put him at the top of the genre. The world class dark atmoshpere of this book gives you images unlike anything else.
The character work is written as though even the smallest characters have depth. This helps you understand the storytelling and actions even more than in The Sword Defiant. If you want a book and series that will grab your emotions as well as captivate you by his prose, pick up any of Hanrahans books. Especially this series.
5 stars, I can't change my mind on this. I will continue to purchase all of Hanrahans books and support this author.
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit for this opportunity.
Hanrahan bring new depth to Alf, Spellbreaker, The Nine, Necrad, and the magic sytem that it really does put him at the top of the genre. The world class dark atmoshpere of this book gives you images unlike anything else.
The character work is written as though even the smallest characters have depth. This helps you understand the storytelling and actions even more than in The Sword Defiant. If you want a book and series that will grab your emotions as well as captivate you by his prose, pick up any of Hanrahans books. Especially this series.
5 stars, I can't change my mind on this. I will continue to purchase all of Hanrahans books and support this author.
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit for this opportunity.
May 23, 2024
*slams fist on the table* MORE ILDORAE IN BOOK THREE OR I RIOT.
April 20, 2026
Reread 4/2026:
It's still an interesting read, but I really struggled to get through this one. It doesn't help that I've been running on fumes when it comes to reading recently, but I really felt each and every page. It would take 100 pages for something interesting to happen, and it was hard to keep trekking through to reach the next milestone.
Once I hit the last quarter, the rest of the book went fast... but the first half was hard. I did enjoy some of the narrative changes (excluding that random point where, for some reason, a battle was told through the narrative of that poet guy; I really hated that part), and I was thrown for a loop at quite a few moments.
I feel so bad for Alf because he has no idea who to trust except for the Nine... and none of the remaining Nine seem like they should be trusted at all. His blind faith in his friends who are quick to use him really helped build my love for his character.
Original Read 11/2024:
I kept obsessively checking GoodReads for any mention of a third book and was STILL tricked. I genuinely kept looking at how many pages were left and the closer I came to the end, the more I worried it would be one of those “everyone dies, bad guys win” sort of stories. (In hindsight, this is called the Lands of the Firstborn SERIES. Maybe I should have known there would be at least 3… maybe 4 books.)
It was a little slow, and I felt it dragged at some points because of the lengthy prose and world descriptions. But because of the length, the worldbuilding practically exploded, and I feel I have a better grasp on the lands and characters, so while I do feel like this is a good example of second book syndrome, it’s still leading somewhere, and I’m excited to see where it goes.
I still have my favorite characters, and I cannot express the stress I felt on and off throughout the books because things kept happening and they kept getting into trouble. Spellbreaker, I think, stole the show, as it had this dry sarcasm that kept making me laugh.
There were multiple occasions when there was so much tension I physically had to cover the bottom of the page/end of the chapter because I was so tempted to see what would happen next, and if I have to do that, I think it means the author did a great job at building that tension and “what’s-going-to-happen” feel.
Honestly, and I’ll say this over and over again, it was such a good idea to have the story set after the Big Bad was defeated, because the cleanup is always a mess, and this series really encapsulates how messy it can get. Especially when the Nine aren’t all that close anymore, and it makes me feel so bad for Alf because he just wants to be with his friends again, but he can’t because they hate each other and he’s being called to pick a side but either way he’s against a friend-
I have no idea when the next book is coming out, but I definitely will be rereading from the very beginning before I pick up the third- both to revisit my favorite moments and to recap the story.
_______
what do you MEAN the expected publication date is May 7, 2024 >:((((
It's still an interesting read, but I really struggled to get through this one. It doesn't help that I've been running on fumes when it comes to reading recently, but I really felt each and every page. It would take 100 pages for something interesting to happen, and it was hard to keep trekking through to reach the next milestone.
Once I hit the last quarter, the rest of the book went fast... but the first half was hard. I did enjoy some of the narrative changes (excluding that random point where, for some reason, a battle was told through the narrative of that poet guy; I really hated that part), and I was thrown for a loop at quite a few moments.
I feel so bad for Alf because he has no idea who to trust except for the Nine... and none of the remaining Nine seem like they should be trusted at all. His blind faith in his friends who are quick to use him really helped build my love for his character.
Original Read 11/2024:
I kept obsessively checking GoodReads for any mention of a third book and was STILL tricked. I genuinely kept looking at how many pages were left and the closer I came to the end, the more I worried it would be one of those “everyone dies, bad guys win” sort of stories. (In hindsight, this is called the Lands of the Firstborn SERIES. Maybe I should have known there would be at least 3… maybe 4 books.)
It was a little slow, and I felt it dragged at some points because of the lengthy prose and world descriptions. But because of the length, the worldbuilding practically exploded, and I feel I have a better grasp on the lands and characters, so while I do feel like this is a good example of second book syndrome, it’s still leading somewhere, and I’m excited to see where it goes.
I still have my favorite characters, and I cannot express the stress I felt on and off throughout the books because things kept happening and they kept getting into trouble. Spellbreaker, I think, stole the show, as it had this dry sarcasm that kept making me laugh.
There were multiple occasions when there was so much tension I physically had to cover the bottom of the page/end of the chapter because I was so tempted to see what would happen next, and if I have to do that, I think it means the author did a great job at building that tension and “what’s-going-to-happen” feel.
Honestly, and I’ll say this over and over again, it was such a good idea to have the story set after the Big Bad was defeated, because the cleanup is always a mess, and this series really encapsulates how messy it can get. Especially when the Nine aren’t all that close anymore, and it makes me feel so bad for Alf because he just wants to be with his friends again, but he can’t because they hate each other and he’s being called to pick a side but either way he’s against a friend-
I have no idea when the next book is coming out, but I definitely will be rereading from the very beginning before I pick up the third- both to revisit my favorite moments and to recap the story.
_______
what do you MEAN the expected publication date is May 7, 2024 >:((((
July 29, 2024
The Sword Unbound has all of the elements needed to make for a fantastic sequel. Conspiracy, political unrest, and a reluctant hero plopped in the middle of two branching paths. Throw in a sentient sword for good measure. I am an ideal reader for this series based on that description alone, but I found myself running into the same issues I had with the first installment.
Firstly, the things that Hanrahan does well. I thoroughly enjoyed the trope subversion and worldbuilding. Hanrahan continued to nail the atmosphere of the world, and Necrad in particular. There's such an ominous feel to the city, plagued by pit fiends and malicious witch elves. I love the vatlings, with Threeday being a favorite character of mine despite limited screen-time.
And speaking of this worldbuilding, most people have emphasized that this is a very traditional fantasy series. Yet I find that Hanrahan manages to keep some aspects fresh. The elves, although very Tolkienesque in appearance and wisdom, have unique issues with their immortality that were expounded upon greatly. This was the most interesting part of the novel for me, and I'm genuinely excited to see what comes next for the elves now.
Spellbreaker continues to be fun. Yet, here we start moving into some of the issues that I had with the book. I found most of the characters to be middling. Aelfric felt even more flat in this novel than the previous, with the most interesting parts of his story being driven by Spellbreaker. In a way, I felt as though Aelfric took a more passive role in his story than his own bloody sword did! I just couldn't find myself caring about most of the characters. Why care about Derwyn, beyond the sake of the plot? I just felt no emotional connection to any of them, and I cannot really say why.
Ultimately, my biggest issue with the book is that very little seems to actually happen. Most of the action happens at the beginning and end of the novel, with much of the middle feeling like fluff. I felt as though there were not enough plot checkpoints to warrant a length of nearly 600 pages.
If you enjoyed the first novel, you will likely enjoy this one as well.
Firstly, the things that Hanrahan does well. I thoroughly enjoyed the trope subversion and worldbuilding. Hanrahan continued to nail the atmosphere of the world, and Necrad in particular. There's such an ominous feel to the city, plagued by pit fiends and malicious witch elves. I love the vatlings, with Threeday being a favorite character of mine despite limited screen-time.
And speaking of this worldbuilding, most people have emphasized that this is a very traditional fantasy series. Yet I find that Hanrahan manages to keep some aspects fresh. The elves, although very Tolkienesque in appearance and wisdom, have unique issues with their immortality that were expounded upon greatly. This was the most interesting part of the novel for me, and I'm genuinely excited to see what comes next for the elves now.
Spellbreaker continues to be fun. Yet, here we start moving into some of the issues that I had with the book. I found most of the characters to be middling. Aelfric felt even more flat in this novel than the previous, with the most interesting parts of his story being driven by Spellbreaker. In a way, I felt as though Aelfric took a more passive role in his story than his own bloody sword did! I just couldn't find myself caring about most of the characters. Why care about Derwyn, beyond the sake of the plot? I just felt no emotional connection to any of them, and I cannot really say why.
Ultimately, my biggest issue with the book is that very little seems to actually happen. Most of the action happens at the beginning and end of the novel, with much of the middle feeling like fluff. I felt as though there were not enough plot checkpoints to warrant a length of nearly 600 pages.
If you enjoyed the first novel, you will likely enjoy this one as well.
Want to Read
March 2, 2024Just got an ARC! I love the cover art:) Guess I'll need to get on it, review to come soon:)
November 15, 2025
This is a solid sequel. I really enjoy Garrets style and story telling. Looking forward to reading book 3!
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