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Chaos and Creation - Book One: The Coming of Darkness
"Wait! This may be your only chance... seize it... don't let it pass you by! - The feelings of dread… the sense of despair and foreboding... they have been growing in you like a dark shadow since you found it?"
Arthar thought for a moment. A look of realisation passed over his face and he started to nod. “Yes… Yes, that's it!”
When Arthar finds a mysterious amulet, Morbydd’s dark intent turns toward the West, threatening to plunge all that he knows and loves into unending chaos.
Morbydd's dark army threatens the empire’s holy city and Arthar’s people see their chance to cast off the shackles of imperial might. But Cradoc, a wise philosopher, warns that this is a distraction, that Morbydd’s true aim is to find and destroy a lost gateway revealed when Arthar discovered the amulet. As this compelling epic fantasy begins, Warder arrives to call upon Arthar’s people to rekindle the ancient alliances of man and beast. To convince them, Warder casts a terrifying image of the future should Morbydd succeed. Will Arthar rise as a hero to face the darkness, or will he succumb to the shadows that threaten to engulf him? Only time will tell as this epic tale takes you to where the empire’s might has waned and dark forces gather to fulfil an ancient prophecy. Feel the excitement as Arthar raises the mighty Solstice to pierce the darkness, armoured Battle-bears and War-wolves join forces and the horse-born Aelf, emerge to resist Morbydd’s dark army.
Cliff-hanger Part One of this epic tale has a nail-biting end that will compel you to want to read Part Two! You have been warned… See my Author Page for details!
Editorial It is important to understand that this epic fantasy series was originally written as one story but as a previously unpublished author that one book would have been too expensive. As a consequence, I have re-written the original story as three books (possibly four) to make it less expensive. That means you need to read all three in order of publication! I truly hope you enjoy it...
Arthar thought for a moment. A look of realisation passed over his face and he started to nod. “Yes… Yes, that's it!”
When Arthar finds a mysterious amulet, Morbydd’s dark intent turns toward the West, threatening to plunge all that he knows and loves into unending chaos.
Morbydd's dark army threatens the empire’s holy city and Arthar’s people see their chance to cast off the shackles of imperial might. But Cradoc, a wise philosopher, warns that this is a distraction, that Morbydd’s true aim is to find and destroy a lost gateway revealed when Arthar discovered the amulet. As this compelling epic fantasy begins, Warder arrives to call upon Arthar’s people to rekindle the ancient alliances of man and beast. To convince them, Warder casts a terrifying image of the future should Morbydd succeed. Will Arthar rise as a hero to face the darkness, or will he succumb to the shadows that threaten to engulf him? Only time will tell as this epic tale takes you to where the empire’s might has waned and dark forces gather to fulfil an ancient prophecy. Feel the excitement as Arthar raises the mighty Solstice to pierce the darkness, armoured Battle-bears and War-wolves join forces and the horse-born Aelf, emerge to resist Morbydd’s dark army.
Cliff-hanger Part One of this epic tale has a nail-biting end that will compel you to want to read Part Two! You have been warned… See my Author Page for details!
Editorial It is important to understand that this epic fantasy series was originally written as one story but as a previously unpublished author that one book would have been too expensive. As a consequence, I have re-written the original story as three books (possibly four) to make it less expensive. That means you need to read all three in order of publication! I truly hope you enjoy it...
444 pages, ebook
Published April 5, 2024
About the author
A.J. Andersson
2 books2 followersA. J. Andersson is a writer of epic fantasy and author of the Chaos and Creation series, a Norse-inspired fantasy saga shaped by mythology, heroic storytelling, and the timeless struggle between chaos and creation.
Inspired by the classic age of folklore and mythology, Chaos and Creation explores the myths, symbolism, and belief systems of the ancient world, bringing them into a world of immersive landscapes, complex characters, and epic conflicts.
With a unique background holding BSc Hons degrees in both Psychology and Criminology, A. J. Andersson draws upon an understanding of human behavior, culture, and the forces that shape individuals and societies. This insight helps create believable characters, rich value systems, and stories that explore the choices, beliefs, and motivations that define us.
Three books in the Chaos and Creation series are currently published, with Book Four written and scheduled for release in September 2026.
A. J. Andersson describes his writing style as "old school" epic fantasy, inspired by Norse heroic legends, classic fantasy traditions, and coming of age themes. His stories focus on character development, adventure, and the enduring appeal of timeless tales of courage, conflict, and discovery.
Before becoming an author, A. J. Andersson served in the Royal Air Force, where he worked in roles involving firefighting, physical education, adventure training, and officer development. He later worked in education and spent 20 years with the Probation Service, experiences that deepened his understanding of leadership, human behavior, and personal development.
For A. J. Andersson, fantasy fiction provides a way to explore questions about belief, reality, morality, and human nature through imagined worlds. Through "Chaos and Creation", he invites readers to explore the choices we make, the values we hold, and the forces that shape our lives.
Inspired by the classic age of folklore and mythology, Chaos and Creation explores the myths, symbolism, and belief systems of the ancient world, bringing them into a world of immersive landscapes, complex characters, and epic conflicts.
With a unique background holding BSc Hons degrees in both Psychology and Criminology, A. J. Andersson draws upon an understanding of human behavior, culture, and the forces that shape individuals and societies. This insight helps create believable characters, rich value systems, and stories that explore the choices, beliefs, and motivations that define us.
Three books in the Chaos and Creation series are currently published, with Book Four written and scheduled for release in September 2026.
A. J. Andersson describes his writing style as "old school" epic fantasy, inspired by Norse heroic legends, classic fantasy traditions, and coming of age themes. His stories focus on character development, adventure, and the enduring appeal of timeless tales of courage, conflict, and discovery.
Before becoming an author, A. J. Andersson served in the Royal Air Force, where he worked in roles involving firefighting, physical education, adventure training, and officer development. He later worked in education and spent 20 years with the Probation Service, experiences that deepened his understanding of leadership, human behavior, and personal development.
For A. J. Andersson, fantasy fiction provides a way to explore questions about belief, reality, morality, and human nature through imagined worlds. Through "Chaos and Creation", he invites readers to explore the choices we make, the values we hold, and the forces that shape our lives.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
May 24, 2025
Great Classic Fantasy
If you’re searching for a classical Western European epic fantasy to get lost in, Chaos and Creation is the book for you! Lots of great characters, human and otherwise (Love the bears and wolves). And Arthar is so charming, in a rapscallion sort of way. In-depth world-building and philosophical insights abound. Totally enjoyed it with a cup of Earl Grey tea and a copy of the Lord of the Rings next to me. My only pet peeve is that some of the dialogue is clunky and there is a bit of info-dumping that makes some conversations unrealistic. I found it somewhat disrupting when a character called out the other person’s name repeatedly. However, this seems to improve as the book goes on, so I think the next book in the series will be even better. Can’t wait to read the sequel. Tea is brewing.
If you’re searching for a classical Western European epic fantasy to get lost in, Chaos and Creation is the book for you! Lots of great characters, human and otherwise (Love the bears and wolves). And Arthar is so charming, in a rapscallion sort of way. In-depth world-building and philosophical insights abound. Totally enjoyed it with a cup of Earl Grey tea and a copy of the Lord of the Rings next to me. My only pet peeve is that some of the dialogue is clunky and there is a bit of info-dumping that makes some conversations unrealistic. I found it somewhat disrupting when a character called out the other person’s name repeatedly. However, this seems to improve as the book goes on, so I think the next book in the series will be even better. Can’t wait to read the sequel. Tea is brewing.
September 8, 2025
Chaos and Creation - Book One: The Coming of Darkness by A.J. Andersson reminds me of a recently released very good movie, The Northman, with Alexander Skarsgård, only this story features dragons and a lot more magic. Both are very intense and involve complete world-building.
Our protagonist, Arthar, is a true warrior—strong, courageous, and highly skilled—who becomes involved with an amulet that may influence the entire world. This story has all the fantasy tropes: magical amulets, a strong-willed main character, dragons, old men with long beards who speak and nod wisely, a phenomenal bad guy who just happens to be a dark warlord whose a multidimensional character, Conan-the-Barbarian-style menacing creatures, beautiful maidens, colossal wars, and a very detailed map that takes us on a great journey that titillates the imagination.
The prose is solid, and Andersson balances it with just the right amount of action—just enough at the right places to keep you hooked. He knows how to build tension, then, almost Bond-like, adds some subtle humor to keep things in check.
All in all, a wonderful effort by A.J. Andersson. If you like Tolkien, Brandon Sanderson, or George R.R. Martin (who he kind of looks like), you will definitely enjoy Chaos and Creation.
Our protagonist, Arthar, is a true warrior—strong, courageous, and highly skilled—who becomes involved with an amulet that may influence the entire world. This story has all the fantasy tropes: magical amulets, a strong-willed main character, dragons, old men with long beards who speak and nod wisely, a phenomenal bad guy who just happens to be a dark warlord whose a multidimensional character, Conan-the-Barbarian-style menacing creatures, beautiful maidens, colossal wars, and a very detailed map that takes us on a great journey that titillates the imagination.
The prose is solid, and Andersson balances it with just the right amount of action—just enough at the right places to keep you hooked. He knows how to build tension, then, almost Bond-like, adds some subtle humor to keep things in check.
All in all, a wonderful effort by A.J. Andersson. If you like Tolkien, Brandon Sanderson, or George R.R. Martin (who he kind of looks like), you will definitely enjoy Chaos and Creation.
August 24, 2025
A Classic Fantasy Adventure with Depth
Chaos and Creation blends old-world fantasy with some refreshing contemporary elements. The world is vivid and immersive, full of battles, prophecy, and political intrigue, with maps and deep character histories that make it feel epic in scope. Characters like Warder and Arthar are fun to follow, with Arthar’s doubts and choices adding a relatable, human touch.
The story balances action with quieter, reflective moments, and while there are familiar tropes and clear nods to classics like LOTR or even Star Wars, the book also challenges some of those tropes in interesting ways. At times, the dialogue could be clearer, and the ebook would benefit from tighter copy editing, but overall the writing flows well and keeps you engaged.
If you enjoy immersive, character-driven epic fantasy with a classic tone, this is a strong and promising start to a larger saga.
Chaos and Creation blends old-world fantasy with some refreshing contemporary elements. The world is vivid and immersive, full of battles, prophecy, and political intrigue, with maps and deep character histories that make it feel epic in scope. Characters like Warder and Arthar are fun to follow, with Arthar’s doubts and choices adding a relatable, human touch.
The story balances action with quieter, reflective moments, and while there are familiar tropes and clear nods to classics like LOTR or even Star Wars, the book also challenges some of those tropes in interesting ways. At times, the dialogue could be clearer, and the ebook would benefit from tighter copy editing, but overall the writing flows well and keeps you engaged.
If you enjoy immersive, character-driven epic fantasy with a classic tone, this is a strong and promising start to a larger saga.
April 12, 2024
I enjoyed reading this story and learning more about the creeping darkness that threatens the realm and life as its inhabitants know it. I loved the natural elements in the story, especially the wolves and bears. Kawwak, the Raven, and the Warder are two of my favorite characters. The dark warlord is quite the villain. I would not want to go toe-to-toe with him or his minions. I'm looking forward to reading book two when it comes out and seeing where this epic tale leads.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book.
February 12, 2025
Epic fantasy in full effect! Big sweeping world building, strong character voices and a story of Arthur and the fight of their lives. Magic and mystery abound here and we see the development of a company of men and strange allies joining to defeat the great darkness coming.
I listened by audiobook and with the addition of songs throughout, the narrator does a great job of all the voices. Quality of production is also very good. This was an audiobook I couldn't speed up beyond 1.5 or I lost the flow. Slowing down really gave depth to the narration.
I listened by audiobook and with the addition of songs throughout, the narrator does a great job of all the voices. Quality of production is also very good. This was an audiobook I couldn't speed up beyond 1.5 or I lost the flow. Slowing down really gave depth to the narration.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews