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Age of Wrath #1
Flut aus schwarzem Stahl
Anthony Ryan ist zurück – und mit ihm eine neue Zeit des Zorns
Das Land Ascarlia ist ein sagenumwobenes Reich, das seit Jahrhunderten von den Schwesternköniginnen regiert wird. Niemand hat je gewagt, ihre Herrschaft in Frage zu stellen. Bis jetzt. Gerüchte berichten von Langschiffen mit tätowierten Kriegern, die unter den Bannern eines mörderischen Kultes segeln, der lange für ausgestorben gehalten wurde. Eine Flut aus schwarzem Stahl, die alles zu verschlingen droht ...
Thera von Schwarzspeer, die bevorzugte Dienerin der Schwesternköniginnen, wird beauftragt, die Wahrheit hinter den Gerüchten aufzudecken. Während sie gen Norden segelt, begibt sich ihr verhasster Bruder Felnir auf seine eigene Reise. Er hofft, die Gunst der Königinnen auf Kosten seiner Schwester zu sichern. Beide Geschwister – gemeinsam mit einem brillanten jungen Schreiber und einem Gefangenen mit einer erschreckenden, urtümlichen Macht – werden eine Rolle im heraufziehenden Sturm spielen. Zwischen dem Zwist der Geschwister und den unerbittlichen Machtkämpfen am Hof der Königinnen hat die Zeit des Zorns begonnen ... Flut aus schwarzem Stahl ist der packende Auftakt zu einer neuen epischen Fantasy-Blockbuster-Serie des internationalen Bestsellers Anthony Ryan, dessen Bücher sich weltweit mehr als eine Million Mal verkauft haben.
Das Land Ascarlia ist ein sagenumwobenes Reich, das seit Jahrhunderten von den Schwesternköniginnen regiert wird. Niemand hat je gewagt, ihre Herrschaft in Frage zu stellen. Bis jetzt. Gerüchte berichten von Langschiffen mit tätowierten Kriegern, die unter den Bannern eines mörderischen Kultes segeln, der lange für ausgestorben gehalten wurde. Eine Flut aus schwarzem Stahl, die alles zu verschlingen droht ...
Thera von Schwarzspeer, die bevorzugte Dienerin der Schwesternköniginnen, wird beauftragt, die Wahrheit hinter den Gerüchten aufzudecken. Während sie gen Norden segelt, begibt sich ihr verhasster Bruder Felnir auf seine eigene Reise. Er hofft, die Gunst der Königinnen auf Kosten seiner Schwester zu sichern. Beide Geschwister – gemeinsam mit einem brillanten jungen Schreiber und einem Gefangenen mit einer erschreckenden, urtümlichen Macht – werden eine Rolle im heraufziehenden Sturm spielen. Zwischen dem Zwist der Geschwister und den unerbittlichen Machtkämpfen am Hof der Königinnen hat die Zeit des Zorns begonnen ... Flut aus schwarzem Stahl ist der packende Auftakt zu einer neuen epischen Fantasy-Blockbuster-Serie des internationalen Bestsellers Anthony Ryan, dessen Bücher sich weltweit mehr als eine Million Mal verkauft haben.
640 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2024
About the author
Anthony Ryan
122 books10.3k followersAnthony Ryan was born in Scotland in 1970 but spent much of his adult life living and working in London. After a long career in the British Civil Service he took up writing full time after the success of his first novel Blood Song, Book One of the Raven’s Shadow trilogy. He has a degree in history, and his interests include art, science and the unending quest for the perfect pint of real ale.
For news and general wittering about stuff he likes, check out Anthony's blog at: http://anthonystuff.wordpress.com
For news and general wittering about stuff he likes, check out Anthony's blog at: http://anthonystuff.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews
July 21, 2024
This is a great introduction to a new series by Anthony Ryan.
I loved The Covenant of Steel trilogy, and this new book, set in the same universe a few decades later, starts just as good. We are introduced to a whole new part of this world and a new set of characters, through different points of view.
The writing and character work is fantastic, the pacing starts a little slow and progressively ramps up to great events and cliffhangers.
I had a wonderful time and will definitely continue with the series.
If you already like Anthony Ryan's work, you should absolutely read this one. If you haven't I would recommend reading The Covenant of Steel first, but you can think you can start with this one.
Thank you Orbit books!
I loved The Covenant of Steel trilogy, and this new book, set in the same universe a few decades later, starts just as good. We are introduced to a whole new part of this world and a new set of characters, through different points of view.
The writing and character work is fantastic, the pacing starts a little slow and progressively ramps up to great events and cliffhangers.
I had a wonderful time and will definitely continue with the series.
If you already like Anthony Ryan's work, you should absolutely read this one. If you haven't I would recommend reading The Covenant of Steel first, but you can think you can start with this one.
Thank you Orbit books!
April 15, 2024
"All souls have secrets, and a human is far better at guarding them than a beast."
That was really crazy, and I can't spill the beans...
The best thing I can say is highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy high fantasy and are passionate about Viking and Norse mythology. Oh, and I have some exciting news, reader of Covenant of Steel, you absolutely need to read this! You not gonna believe this!
"All beauty is an illusion and all charm a lie. Those who may not appear monstrous can yet remain monsters."
Thank you to Little, Brown Book Group UK for the opportunity to read A Tide of Black Steel, the first book of the Age of Wrath series by Anthony Ryan - via NetGalley. I have given my honest review.
“Why? Why were you cursed?”
“For the worst crime committed by those who claim wisdom: pride.”
That was really crazy, and I can't spill the beans...
The best thing I can say is highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy high fantasy and are passionate about Viking and Norse mythology. Oh, and I have some exciting news, reader of Covenant of Steel, you absolutely need to read this! You not gonna believe this!
"All beauty is an illusion and all charm a lie. Those who may not appear monstrous can yet remain monsters."
Thank you to Little, Brown Book Group UK for the opportunity to read A Tide of Black Steel, the first book of the Age of Wrath series by Anthony Ryan - via NetGalley. I have given my honest review.
“Why? Why were you cursed?”
“For the worst crime committed by those who claim wisdom: pride.”
July 28, 2024
Your next Norse, sea faring fantasy fix!
Thera is the Vellihr of Justice for Ascarlia, sent to investigate rumours of rebellion.
Felnir, lesser brother to Thera’s renown. Disgraced and unhappily forced in his great-grandfather's service.
Elvine, daughter to Ascarlian librarian Berine Jurest (!!!! Covenant of Steel !!!) ends up working for the Sister Queens, rulers of Assarlia. after being arrested at a Covenant rite, a practice not tolerated in Ascarlia.
Ruhlin, a young fisherman, is stolen from his home by raiders where he discovers a rage which makes him near invincible. The name Fire Blood follows him.
Our big baddies are cult of the Volkrath who believe themselves inheritors of the blood of the Ultvar, the first race of men set upon the earth by the Worldsmith.
Their mission is basically our version of Hitler’s perfected, best gene vision.
We sought power, and we found it. But power is like a flame: it warms but it also burns.
There are a lot of characters as you have noticed. However, they are all so distinct with very different quests and journeys that it is easy to distinguish them.
Ryan has always been great at writing deeper and dark characters. For example, both Elvine and Ruhlin, both stolen from their homes, grapple with self-recrimination, fury, hatred warring with fear and self-perseverance.
If you thought you had tumultuous relations with your siblings, wait until you meet Felnir and Thera. One is condemned to ignoble skulking at the other steals all glory. I liked that it was the sister that had the honour in the eyes of the public as this is not normally so!
"What's that Alberic word, Margnus? The one for those who make a living by enmeshing folk in the vast, contradictory web of their customs?"
"I believe the term is 'lawyer', my queen," the Tielwald supplied.
Finally, I would be remiss to not mention his amazing world-building as he stretches his world of the Covenant of Steel in a Scandinavian/Norse-inspired part of the world twenty years on.
You don’t have to have read CoS to understand this series, but you might miss Easter eggs and you might struggle with some information dumps. Also, the revelations will make your jaw drop in shock, excitement, and satisfaction.
I would recommend this if you enjoyed The Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne.
Thank you to Orbit for providing an arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
Thera is the Vellihr of Justice for Ascarlia, sent to investigate rumours of rebellion.
Felnir, lesser brother to Thera’s renown. Disgraced and unhappily forced in his great-grandfather's service.
Elvine, daughter to Ascarlian librarian Berine Jurest (!!!! Covenant of Steel !!!) ends up working for the Sister Queens, rulers of Assarlia. after being arrested at a Covenant rite, a practice not tolerated in Ascarlia.
Ruhlin, a young fisherman, is stolen from his home by raiders where he discovers a rage which makes him near invincible. The name Fire Blood follows him.
Our big baddies are cult of the Volkrath who believe themselves inheritors of the blood of the Ultvar, the first race of men set upon the earth by the Worldsmith.
Their mission is basically our version of Hitler’s perfected, best gene vision.
We sought power, and we found it. But power is like a flame: it warms but it also burns.
There are a lot of characters as you have noticed. However, they are all so distinct with very different quests and journeys that it is easy to distinguish them.
Ryan has always been great at writing deeper and dark characters. For example, both Elvine and Ruhlin, both stolen from their homes, grapple with self-recrimination, fury, hatred warring with fear and self-perseverance.
If you thought you had tumultuous relations with your siblings, wait until you meet Felnir and Thera. One is condemned to ignoble skulking at the other steals all glory. I liked that it was the sister that had the honour in the eyes of the public as this is not normally so!
"What's that Alberic word, Margnus? The one for those who make a living by enmeshing folk in the vast, contradictory web of their customs?"
"I believe the term is 'lawyer', my queen," the Tielwald supplied.
Finally, I would be remiss to not mention his amazing world-building as he stretches his world of the Covenant of Steel in a Scandinavian/Norse-inspired part of the world twenty years on.
You don’t have to have read CoS to understand this series, but you might miss Easter eggs and you might struggle with some information dumps. Also, the revelations will make your jaw drop in shock, excitement, and satisfaction.
I would recommend this if you enjoyed The Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne.
Thank you to Orbit for providing an arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
September 29, 2024
3.5 Stars
This is a solid start to a new epic fantasy story. It's clear that this author has experience and again offers a solid story.
However my rating reflects the fact that I personally wasn't overly interested in the story this author was telling. I have enjoyed their backlist title but found this one less compelling despite having several benchmarks of a good novel.
I would recommend this novel to fantasy readers looking for a new series, especially if they are already fans of Anthony Ryan.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is a solid start to a new epic fantasy story. It's clear that this author has experience and again offers a solid story.
However my rating reflects the fact that I personally wasn't overly interested in the story this author was telling. I have enjoyed their backlist title but found this one less compelling despite having several benchmarks of a good novel.
I would recommend this novel to fantasy readers looking for a new series, especially if they are already fans of Anthony Ryan.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 20, 2025
I feel late to the party but this was just SUPERB!!
Told from a number of different character POVs, we get to experience a norse-like world where sea-faring armies, hulk-like transformations, quests for mystical weapons, and treachery run rife!
Anthony Ryan has created an engaging, exciting and often gruesome new series which I cannot wait to continue. From the very start, I was hooked. The fantasy elements are extremely well crafted, with their slow and subtle introductions contributing to an already thrilling story.
A brilliant start to the series!
Thank you NetGalley and Little Brown Book Group for my copy of this novel!
Told from a number of different character POVs, we get to experience a norse-like world where sea-faring armies, hulk-like transformations, quests for mystical weapons, and treachery run rife!
Anthony Ryan has created an engaging, exciting and often gruesome new series which I cannot wait to continue. From the very start, I was hooked. The fantasy elements are extremely well crafted, with their slow and subtle introductions contributing to an already thrilling story.
A brilliant start to the series!
Thank you NetGalley and Little Brown Book Group for my copy of this novel!
October 17, 2024
Slow burn, Norse-inspired fantasy that sets up for an exciting tale.
I’m a big fan of Anthony Ryan. Blood Song is one of my favorite fantasy books ever and Covenant of Steel is in my top ten fav fantasy series. This book is the first in a new installment and dovetails and connects with the prior Covenant series which is something that I absolutely loved. This book, which I’m assuming is the first in a trilogy, is mostly about set up. We’re introduced to 4 POVs: Felnir and his Sister Thera, Ruhlin a peasant young man with a strange and arcane ability and Elvine, a young scholar. It takes a bit for these four characters to soak in but you realize quickly they are all related to the kingdom of the Sister Queens which is a northern kingdom to Albermaine, where the previous series took place. So you get an exciting new Norse-inspired people with their lore that Ryan weaves into the prior people to the south. It goes without saying that there are cool connections between are new cast and the prior one in Covenant.
I found this book to be deliciously slow told over the dry with prose that Ryan always brings to the table. The setting and lore are almost visceral and the way the scenes are set up and the pacing are just superb. The ending was satisfying and clearly propels this first book into a much more messy and chaotic story line going into the next book.
Pro tip: you can read this first but I highly recommend reading the prior series first.
I’m a big fan of Anthony Ryan. Blood Song is one of my favorite fantasy books ever and Covenant of Steel is in my top ten fav fantasy series. This book is the first in a new installment and dovetails and connects with the prior Covenant series which is something that I absolutely loved. This book, which I’m assuming is the first in a trilogy, is mostly about set up. We’re introduced to 4 POVs: Felnir and his Sister Thera, Ruhlin a peasant young man with a strange and arcane ability and Elvine, a young scholar. It takes a bit for these four characters to soak in but you realize quickly they are all related to the kingdom of the Sister Queens which is a northern kingdom to Albermaine, where the previous series took place. So you get an exciting new Norse-inspired people with their lore that Ryan weaves into the prior people to the south. It goes without saying that there are cool connections between are new cast and the prior one in Covenant.
I found this book to be deliciously slow told over the dry with prose that Ryan always brings to the table. The setting and lore are almost visceral and the way the scenes are set up and the pacing are just superb. The ending was satisfying and clearly propels this first book into a much more messy and chaotic story line going into the next book.
Pro tip: you can read this first but I highly recommend reading the prior series first.
January 17, 2025
Review originally on JamReads
A Tide of Black Steel is the first book in the Viking inspired fantasy series Age of Wrath, written by Anthony Ryan, and published by Orbit Books. An ambitious story told using multiple POVs, a slow-burn that takes its sweet time to build up the foundations of what will become an epic journey with a cast of well-fleshed characters, set in the same world as the Covenant of Steel trilogy, decades later.
The first of our POV will be Ruhlin, a prisoner captured from one of the islands after the rest is slaughtered; his ferocity convinced the invaders that his blood is special. As prisoner, he will be taken to the lands past the fire islands, where he will be forced to fight against other prisoners; in the meanwhile, he will try to forge allegiances with his companions, looking for a way to escape their fates. A great character who especially shines when he goes berserk, depicting brutal battles; his POV is kinda the most independent (even if it's still connected).
The second of our POV will be Thera, servant to the Sister Queens; she's given the mission of finding about the new threat Ascarlia is facing. Their islands are being invaded and slaughtered, and she will embark on a journey to learn what is happening and who are the responsible, slowly uncovering more at the cost of putting herself in danger. A brave woman who has a difficult relationship with his sibling, Felnir; but a person who is able to see the value of others over their aspect or their preconceptions.
The third and fourth POV are practically tied together, as they Elvine and Felnir. Elvine, a scribe taught by her mother that is brought into a Queen service, who will send into a difficult mission which starts with a map on the back of a crazy man; she will be together with Felnir and his crew of outcasts and criminals. They will uncover secrets about the myths of the isles and the truth behind the history of the heroes; but each one has a target in mind, Felnir trying to get the power following the machinations of his great grandfather, while Elvine wants to keep her mother safe fulfilling the mission given by the Queen.
Ryan marvelously weaves together the four POV to create an epic story; while it is a bit of a slowburn because there's much to set-up, you are always discovering more about the characters or the world in the meanwhile. All the POV are well layered characters, with distinctive voices, in a world that is bigger than just them.
The setting for this novel, Ascarlia, clearly has a Viking inspiration, which can be seen in many aspects of the book; decades later than the Covenant of Steel and more to the North than Albermaine, with some hints to the previous trilogy for the avid reader. I really enjoyed when the story goes deep into the foundational myths and the legends of Ascarlia, and how they might have a grain of truth after all.
The prose is a bit dry, but it works well in combination with the pacing, as it helps to keep you going even if there's much set-up at the start.
A Tide of Black Steel is a great kickstart to what aims to be an epic series; if you are looking for Norse inspired fantasy, well written characters and ambitious arcs, you should give Age of Wrath a try. Can't wait to see how the adventures of these characters continue.
A Tide of Black Steel is the first book in the Viking inspired fantasy series Age of Wrath, written by Anthony Ryan, and published by Orbit Books. An ambitious story told using multiple POVs, a slow-burn that takes its sweet time to build up the foundations of what will become an epic journey with a cast of well-fleshed characters, set in the same world as the Covenant of Steel trilogy, decades later.
The first of our POV will be Ruhlin, a prisoner captured from one of the islands after the rest is slaughtered; his ferocity convinced the invaders that his blood is special. As prisoner, he will be taken to the lands past the fire islands, where he will be forced to fight against other prisoners; in the meanwhile, he will try to forge allegiances with his companions, looking for a way to escape their fates. A great character who especially shines when he goes berserk, depicting brutal battles; his POV is kinda the most independent (even if it's still connected).
The second of our POV will be Thera, servant to the Sister Queens; she's given the mission of finding about the new threat Ascarlia is facing. Their islands are being invaded and slaughtered, and she will embark on a journey to learn what is happening and who are the responsible, slowly uncovering more at the cost of putting herself in danger. A brave woman who has a difficult relationship with his sibling, Felnir; but a person who is able to see the value of others over their aspect or their preconceptions.
The third and fourth POV are practically tied together, as they Elvine and Felnir. Elvine, a scribe taught by her mother that is brought into a Queen service, who will send into a difficult mission which starts with a map on the back of a crazy man; she will be together with Felnir and his crew of outcasts and criminals. They will uncover secrets about the myths of the isles and the truth behind the history of the heroes; but each one has a target in mind, Felnir trying to get the power following the machinations of his great grandfather, while Elvine wants to keep her mother safe fulfilling the mission given by the Queen.
Ryan marvelously weaves together the four POV to create an epic story; while it is a bit of a slowburn because there's much to set-up, you are always discovering more about the characters or the world in the meanwhile. All the POV are well layered characters, with distinctive voices, in a world that is bigger than just them.
The setting for this novel, Ascarlia, clearly has a Viking inspiration, which can be seen in many aspects of the book; decades later than the Covenant of Steel and more to the North than Albermaine, with some hints to the previous trilogy for the avid reader. I really enjoyed when the story goes deep into the foundational myths and the legends of Ascarlia, and how they might have a grain of truth after all.
The prose is a bit dry, but it works well in combination with the pacing, as it helps to keep you going even if there's much set-up at the start.
A Tide of Black Steel is a great kickstart to what aims to be an epic series; if you are looking for Norse inspired fantasy, well written characters and ambitious arcs, you should give Age of Wrath a try. Can't wait to see how the adventures of these characters continue.
December 9, 2024
A Tide of Black Steel
by Anthony Ryan
Age of Wrath #1
Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Sept. 24, 2024
Orbit Books
Ages: 17+
The Sister Queens have ruled the land of Ascarlia for centuries. One of the queens sent Thera north with her new apprentice, a young mute girl who has a way with animals. And Thera's brother was sent to search for the Vault of the Altvar, a treasure of the Gods with the help of a young female scribe.
There are rumors of tattooed warriors invading small villages, leaving few alive. Those they do, become slaves, as did one who has a gift given to him from the gods.
Sadly there was an appendix at the beginning of the book and yep, the author used it as an excuse to be lazy with the world and character building. Worse, there are four POVs, I think, there might be another one. I can't be sure because it was confusing! At fifty percent I finally got to know the characters, but I still had the tendency to confuse the two girls, and I have no clue what the guy with the transformation gift has to do with anything.
The story was good and interesting, but as I said the world and character building started off lazy. There's even a character that I don't remember what happened to them.
There is a lot of violence and gore so this is not suitable for readers under seventeen.
I liked the story, and yes, I'm interested in reading the next in the series, but it still fell short of another star.
3 Stars
by Anthony Ryan
Age of Wrath #1
Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Sept. 24, 2024
Orbit Books
Ages: 17+
The Sister Queens have ruled the land of Ascarlia for centuries. One of the queens sent Thera north with her new apprentice, a young mute girl who has a way with animals. And Thera's brother was sent to search for the Vault of the Altvar, a treasure of the Gods with the help of a young female scribe.
There are rumors of tattooed warriors invading small villages, leaving few alive. Those they do, become slaves, as did one who has a gift given to him from the gods.
Sadly there was an appendix at the beginning of the book and yep, the author used it as an excuse to be lazy with the world and character building. Worse, there are four POVs, I think, there might be another one. I can't be sure because it was confusing! At fifty percent I finally got to know the characters, but I still had the tendency to confuse the two girls, and I have no clue what the guy with the transformation gift has to do with anything.
The story was good and interesting, but as I said the world and character building started off lazy. There's even a character that I don't remember what happened to them.
There is a lot of violence and gore so this is not suitable for readers under seventeen.
I liked the story, and yes, I'm interested in reading the next in the series, but it still fell short of another star.
3 Stars
October 21, 2024
Fabulous as always : ) You can find further thoughts in my review here: Happy Monday! Please check out my review of Anthony Ryan’s new book A Tide of Black Steel 🙂 https://youtu.be/x45urTG_ZUU?si=c_u11...
November 10, 2025
Oggi vi parlo di "Una marea di acciaio nero" di Anthony Ryan, primo libro della trilogia "L'Era della Collera".
Sono passati vent'anni dagli eventi narrati nella trilogia "L'Alleanza d'Acciaio", Ascarlia continua a essere governata dalle Regine Sorelle. È un continente freddo, spietato e brutale, una terra che sa di mare, ferro e s4ngue, dove i riferimenti alla mitologia norrena si fanno più vivi che mai.
"Una marea di acciaio nero" è uno di quei libri che ti cattura lentamente per poi trascinarti nelle sue grinfie con forza e violenza. La narrazione si sviluppa attraverso quattro punti di vista: i due fratelli Thera e Felnir, il giovane Ruhlin ed Elvine. Anthony Ryan gestisce i personaggi in gioco con equilibrio e maestria, introducendo al lettore sia le loro personalità sia l'ambientazione che essi esplorano.
Nella prima parte il canovaccio si focalizza sullo sviluppo e l'approfondimento dei protagonisti, solidi, sfaccettati e ben caratterizzati, e nel gettare le fondamenta di un worldbuilding che trasuda epicità ed eroismo da ogni pagina, ricco di miti e leggende. Ovviamente non mancano scene più dinamiche, dove intrighi, battaglie e combattimenti vengono posti in primo piano. Un equilibrio perfetto tra introspezione e azione.
Lo stile di scrittura adottato dall'autore è raffinato e fluido, capace di trascinare dall’inizio alla fine grazie a descrizioni nitide ed evocative. "Una marea di acciaio nero" conferma tutto il talento narrativo di Anthony Ryan. Un libro da leggere.
Sono passati vent'anni dagli eventi narrati nella trilogia "L'Alleanza d'Acciaio", Ascarlia continua a essere governata dalle Regine Sorelle. È un continente freddo, spietato e brutale, una terra che sa di mare, ferro e s4ngue, dove i riferimenti alla mitologia norrena si fanno più vivi che mai.
"Una marea di acciaio nero" è uno di quei libri che ti cattura lentamente per poi trascinarti nelle sue grinfie con forza e violenza. La narrazione si sviluppa attraverso quattro punti di vista: i due fratelli Thera e Felnir, il giovane Ruhlin ed Elvine. Anthony Ryan gestisce i personaggi in gioco con equilibrio e maestria, introducendo al lettore sia le loro personalità sia l'ambientazione che essi esplorano.
Nella prima parte il canovaccio si focalizza sullo sviluppo e l'approfondimento dei protagonisti, solidi, sfaccettati e ben caratterizzati, e nel gettare le fondamenta di un worldbuilding che trasuda epicità ed eroismo da ogni pagina, ricco di miti e leggende. Ovviamente non mancano scene più dinamiche, dove intrighi, battaglie e combattimenti vengono posti in primo piano. Un equilibrio perfetto tra introspezione e azione.
Lo stile di scrittura adottato dall'autore è raffinato e fluido, capace di trascinare dall’inizio alla fine grazie a descrizioni nitide ed evocative. "Una marea di acciaio nero" conferma tutto il talento narrativo di Anthony Ryan. Un libro da leggere.
September 23, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A Tide of Black Steel is the first book in the new Age of Wrath series by Anthony Ryan. Based in Norse mythology with Vikings type seafaring peoples, I enjoyed the start and set up of what is going to be an epic journey. A Tide of Black Steel is set in the same world as the Covenant of Steel series decades later. I have not read the other series and don't think you need to in order to enjoy this one, but I'm now interested in checking it out as well.
I enjoyed one of Anthony Ryan's other series, Raven's Shadow and so I was eager to see what he would come up with in this new series with a background of Norse lore to it. With the multiple PoVs, we travel through a land ruled by the Three Queens as a new foe from beyond the fire Islands has come to rage war and enslave an entire people.
Ruhlin is a prisoner, stolen from one of the Islands after everyone else was slaughtered. He showed during the invasion what a great fighter he was and how his blood was special. We learn about the people in the lands past the fire Island as he learns what is to be expected of him at an upcoming celebration, where he will be pitted against others in gladiator style fights. As he makes some alliances with some of his fellow prisoners, he will try to find a way to escape their fates.
A scribe, Elvine, taught by her mother will find that she will play a role she never intended when she is brought into one of the Queen's service. Her knowledge of languages will send her on a treasure hunt of sorts, starting with a map on a crazy man's back.
The two other PoVs come from a siblings Felnir and Thera. One a captain and outcast with a crew built of former criminals and the other is the saint of the Queen of Justice and her right hand. They have an intense sibling rivalry going as each tries to best the other under the machinations of their grandfather. The one other thing that has pitted them against each other all these years just happens to be a woman who chose a life with Felnir over Thera.
What a great adventure. A treasure hunt, a fight against a new foe, a stuggle for survival against all odds. There were so many thing that set this story up for success in my eyes. Characters with some unusual talents, a history that is unveiled slowly and then don't forget the betrayals that come that will knock your socks off. A Tide of Black Steel was a great set up to what will surely be an epic story. I adored all the characters for different reasons and while some might be a little naive, I think that will change with all the adventures they have seen in this story.
If you have been a fan of Ryan's writing in the past or you just like epic Viking-esk adventures, there should be something in this book for you.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A Tide of Black Steel is the first book in the new Age of Wrath series by Anthony Ryan. Based in Norse mythology with Vikings type seafaring peoples, I enjoyed the start and set up of what is going to be an epic journey. A Tide of Black Steel is set in the same world as the Covenant of Steel series decades later. I have not read the other series and don't think you need to in order to enjoy this one, but I'm now interested in checking it out as well.
I enjoyed one of Anthony Ryan's other series, Raven's Shadow and so I was eager to see what he would come up with in this new series with a background of Norse lore to it. With the multiple PoVs, we travel through a land ruled by the Three Queens as a new foe from beyond the fire Islands has come to rage war and enslave an entire people.
Ruhlin is a prisoner, stolen from one of the Islands after everyone else was slaughtered. He showed during the invasion what a great fighter he was and how his blood was special. We learn about the people in the lands past the fire Island as he learns what is to be expected of him at an upcoming celebration, where he will be pitted against others in gladiator style fights. As he makes some alliances with some of his fellow prisoners, he will try to find a way to escape their fates.
A scribe, Elvine, taught by her mother will find that she will play a role she never intended when she is brought into one of the Queen's service. Her knowledge of languages will send her on a treasure hunt of sorts, starting with a map on a crazy man's back.
It was Martyr Sihlda Doisselle herself who said this of truth: ‘It is as malleable as clay for the faithless, but hard and unyielding as stone for the faithful.’
The two other PoVs come from a siblings Felnir and Thera. One a captain and outcast with a crew built of former criminals and the other is the saint of the Queen of Justice and her right hand. They have an intense sibling rivalry going as each tries to best the other under the machinations of their grandfather. The one other thing that has pitted them against each other all these years just happens to be a woman who chose a life with Felnir over Thera.
What a great adventure. A treasure hunt, a fight against a new foe, a stuggle for survival against all odds. There were so many thing that set this story up for success in my eyes. Characters with some unusual talents, a history that is unveiled slowly and then don't forget the betrayals that come that will knock your socks off. A Tide of Black Steel was a great set up to what will surely be an epic story. I adored all the characters for different reasons and while some might be a little naive, I think that will change with all the adventures they have seen in this story.
If you have been a fan of Ryan's writing in the past or you just like epic Viking-esk adventures, there should be something in this book for you.
There are no coincidences. Just threads not yet revealed as part of the same web.
June 2, 2026
Another great start to a new series by Anthony Ryan. He is one of the most consistent authors when it comes to both quantity and quality of his books.
While the synopsis may sound similar to his other series, this norse inspired plot stands on its own and is both unique and familiar. Set in the same world as Covenant of Steel, Tide of Black Steel tells a whole new story with a new cast of characters.
The plot moves at a good pace and has a good mystery and adventure feel. All of the characters are interesting and I never felt like any of them were less than thrilling.
I had a great time with this one. I think I read the last 200 pages in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I just got an ARC for the third and final book that releases in August so I'll be diving into book two right away!
While the synopsis may sound similar to his other series, this norse inspired plot stands on its own and is both unique and familiar. Set in the same world as Covenant of Steel, Tide of Black Steel tells a whole new story with a new cast of characters.
The plot moves at a good pace and has a good mystery and adventure feel. All of the characters are interesting and I never felt like any of them were less than thrilling.
I had a great time with this one. I think I read the last 200 pages in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I just got an ARC for the third and final book that releases in August so I'll be diving into book two right away!
Did Not Finish
July 29, 2025I would like to thank NetGalley and Orbit for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
DNF @ 53%
Unfortunately this is just not for me. I enjoyed Ruhlin's POV a lot, but as for the rest of this i'm simply not finding the storytelling compelling enough to continue. I might pick this up again at a later date, but for now i'm going to put this aside because i'm having a very hard time connecting to the narrative style. I enjoyed The Pariah a lot, but unfortunately i think this new series might just not be for me.
DNF @ 53%
Unfortunately this is just not for me. I enjoyed Ruhlin's POV a lot, but as for the rest of this i'm simply not finding the storytelling compelling enough to continue. I might pick this up again at a later date, but for now i'm going to put this aside because i'm having a very hard time connecting to the narrative style. I enjoyed The Pariah a lot, but unfortunately i think this new series might just not be for me.
September 13, 2024
Well what do we have here! Anthony Ryan and a Norse Fantasy!
Not the combination I expected but certainly one I could get on board with!
A Tide of Black Steel is the first book of the “Age of Wrath” series. An epic fantasy trilogy!
I cant say it any better than the blurb so as a reminder, this is what you are in for;
“The land of Ascarlia, a fabled realm of bloodied steel and epic sagas, has been ruled by the Sister Queens for centuries. No one has dared question their rule.
Until now.
Whispers speak of longships of mysterious tattooed warriors, sailing under the banners of a murderous cult of oath-breakers long thought extinct. A tide of black steel that threatens to vanquish all in its path.”
The first thing you should note on this book, is the cover! Goodness me does that hit all the right spots.
Looks fantastic, feels dramatic and will look beautiful on your book shelf.
But I guess you are reading this review to learn about what is inside!
I like to measure my books on a few different focus points.
Characters
There is a lot! I will confess, the sheer volume of new characters overwhelmed me at the start and made this a real slow burn read.
In a similar vain to Malice by John Gwynne it takes the first 50% of the book to really understand the runners and riders.
I struggled to connect with everyone, especially with so many POV’s. The stars of the story for me are Ruhlin and Thera, but I feel others might enjoy Elvine and Felnir more.
I landed on 3/5 for characters
World building
This is where Anthony Ryan always excels. This is no different. He is phenomenal at pulling you into a series, and making you feel that you are there.
His ability to captivate the scene and everything in the world is brilliant. Norse Fantasy books is a pretty well trodden path in fantasy now and Ryan followed all the rules and gave me everything I expected
4/5
Writing style
I usually really enjoy multiple POV but this felt sticky at times. Sometimes I didn’t need the POV change and I certainly didn’t need such gaps between returning to the character.
Parts of the story were more interesting than others to me, and when I was pulled out of those moments, it kinda sucked.
3/5
Plot and pacing.
This is a tough measure for this book. Book 1 of a new series is often going to be a slow start, as you are introduced to the world and characters.
For me, it was hard to feel fully engaged until about the halfway point. That said the second half is great and is the reason I will pick up the next book when its out
3/5
Entertainment value
I think based on the above you can see this wasn’t plain sailing for me. I enjoyed it enough to want to read book to, but it wasn’t edge of the seat stuff.
I know Ryan delivers so I am eagerly anticipating book 2
3/5
Overall 3 stars
Not the combination I expected but certainly one I could get on board with!
A Tide of Black Steel is the first book of the “Age of Wrath” series. An epic fantasy trilogy!
I cant say it any better than the blurb so as a reminder, this is what you are in for;
“The land of Ascarlia, a fabled realm of bloodied steel and epic sagas, has been ruled by the Sister Queens for centuries. No one has dared question their rule.
Until now.
Whispers speak of longships of mysterious tattooed warriors, sailing under the banners of a murderous cult of oath-breakers long thought extinct. A tide of black steel that threatens to vanquish all in its path.”
The first thing you should note on this book, is the cover! Goodness me does that hit all the right spots.
Looks fantastic, feels dramatic and will look beautiful on your book shelf.
But I guess you are reading this review to learn about what is inside!
I like to measure my books on a few different focus points.
Characters
There is a lot! I will confess, the sheer volume of new characters overwhelmed me at the start and made this a real slow burn read.
In a similar vain to Malice by John Gwynne it takes the first 50% of the book to really understand the runners and riders.
I struggled to connect with everyone, especially with so many POV’s. The stars of the story for me are Ruhlin and Thera, but I feel others might enjoy Elvine and Felnir more.
I landed on 3/5 for characters
World building
This is where Anthony Ryan always excels. This is no different. He is phenomenal at pulling you into a series, and making you feel that you are there.
His ability to captivate the scene and everything in the world is brilliant. Norse Fantasy books is a pretty well trodden path in fantasy now and Ryan followed all the rules and gave me everything I expected
4/5
Writing style
I usually really enjoy multiple POV but this felt sticky at times. Sometimes I didn’t need the POV change and I certainly didn’t need such gaps between returning to the character.
Parts of the story were more interesting than others to me, and when I was pulled out of those moments, it kinda sucked.
3/5
Plot and pacing.
This is a tough measure for this book. Book 1 of a new series is often going to be a slow start, as you are introduced to the world and characters.
For me, it was hard to feel fully engaged until about the halfway point. That said the second half is great and is the reason I will pick up the next book when its out
3/5
Entertainment value
I think based on the above you can see this wasn’t plain sailing for me. I enjoyed it enough to want to read book to, but it wasn’t edge of the seat stuff.
I know Ryan delivers so I am eagerly anticipating book 2
3/5
Overall 3 stars
September 22, 2025
Maybe I wasn't in the right mindset to be reading this book, but it left quite a sour taste by the end. Maybe modern fantasy isn't for me.
The story in this, is, to be frank, simple. I was told to wait until it gets going and be amazed by complexity. But what I got was a journey to find thing (TM) and people fighting. At least John Gwyn has fighting scenes to keep you enganged, this book doesn't even try.
The POV characters are a little all over of the place. Ruhlin starts off strong-ish in the first chapter - but for someone who get met to pick up the book his story was quite gruelling. Maybe its the old "far character" POV that I don't like thing creeping back, but I couldn't bring myself to care about what happened to him. Each of his chapters were grating and boring and hard to get through and amount to basically nothing. Similarly, Elvine starts of neat, but after she joins another POV character, you could literally forget she exists (as I did at multiple points). As for two siblings, Felnir and Thera, their chapters were ones I was actually somewhat interested in. But, just like the rest of the book, their stories don't amount to much here, and there's not interesting ENOUGH to carry (Anthony Ryan is no character voice writer like Joe Abercrombie to make me sit through a book's worth of set-up).
On that front, in general, the book's story is dull, simple, with little to reward you for sitting through nearly 200k words. I know big action spectacle at the end can be cliched, but its better than ending your epic fantasy book on chapters with conversation. One of the characters at the end reveals themselves to actually be a character from legend in disguise, but since it's the first time we learn of that legend (I think), I couldn't care less. A lot of what this book considers as world building and good conversation is literally just characters telling each other about myths and legends (which IMO they should know about). Elvine is a big culprit of this, but there are others.
The story in this, is, to be frank, simple. I was told to wait until it gets going and be amazed by complexity. But what I got was a journey to find thing (TM) and people fighting. At least John Gwyn has fighting scenes to keep you enganged, this book doesn't even try.
The POV characters are a little all over of the place. Ruhlin starts off strong-ish in the first chapter - but for someone who get met to pick up the book his story was quite gruelling. Maybe its the old "far character" POV that I don't like thing creeping back, but I couldn't bring myself to care about what happened to him. Each of his chapters were grating and boring and hard to get through and amount to basically nothing. Similarly, Elvine starts of neat, but after she joins another POV character, you could literally forget she exists (as I did at multiple points). As for two siblings, Felnir and Thera, their chapters were ones I was actually somewhat interested in. But, just like the rest of the book, their stories don't amount to much here, and there's not interesting ENOUGH to carry (Anthony Ryan is no character voice writer like Joe Abercrombie to make me sit through a book's worth of set-up).
On that front, in general, the book's story is dull, simple, with little to reward you for sitting through nearly 200k words. I know big action spectacle at the end can be cliched, but its better than ending your epic fantasy book on chapters with conversation. One of the characters at the end reveals themselves to actually be a character from legend in disguise, but since it's the first time we learn of that legend (I think), I couldn't care less. A lot of what this book considers as world building and good conversation is literally just characters telling each other about myths and legends (which IMO they should know about). Elvine is a big culprit of this, but there are others.
May 2, 2024
Another great start to a new series by Anthony Ryan. He is one of the most consistent authors when it comes to both quantity and quality of his books.
While the synopsis may sound similar to his other series, this norse inspired plot stands on its own and is both unique and familiar. Set in the same world as Covenant of Steel, Tide of Black Steel tells a whole new story with a new cast of characters.
The plot moves at a good pace and has a good mystery and adventure feel. All of the characters are interesting and I never felt like any of them were less than thrilling.
I had a great time with this one. I think I read the last 200 pages in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I just got an ARC for the third and final book that releases in August so I'll be diving into book two right away!
While the synopsis may sound similar to his other series, this norse inspired plot stands on its own and is both unique and familiar. Set in the same world as Covenant of Steel, Tide of Black Steel tells a whole new story with a new cast of characters.
The plot moves at a good pace and has a good mystery and adventure feel. All of the characters are interesting and I never felt like any of them were less than thrilling.
I had a great time with this one. I think I read the last 200 pages in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I just got an ARC for the third and final book that releases in August so I'll be diving into book two right away!
September 1, 2025
3.75 rounded up
Book Stats:
📖: 560 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Orbit
Format: Tandem with Physical/Audio I purchased. (full disclosure. I did also receive an eARC from Netgalley when the book was first released, but I did not use that to read this novel.)
Series: 1/3 The Age of Wrath trilogy
Audiobook Stats:
⏰: 19 hours 20 minutes
🎤: Steven Brand
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Format: Singular narrator
I enjoyed the narrator quite a bit. The voice was please to listen to and was clearly a native Spanish speaker. I never had to adjust my speed.
Themes:
💫: Betrayal
💫: Secrets
Representation:
🪽: Norse Mythology
Tropes:
💗: foreign invaders
💗: Unique magic system
🥵: Spice: none
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
General Thoughts:
This starts off very heavy on the fantasy. It does start off quite fast paced, but eventually slows down to build upon characters and the world. I feel like the immediate action sequence pulls you in and keeps you immersed while continuing to build upon the characters and the world. It gives you the feeling of starting off immediately with a mystery of "who are these people?" and why are they fighting and what is happening in this world. It immediately starts building rapport with the main characters so that you can start to care about their motivations and interests.
This leand really heavily into the Norse mythology aspect of the story. It's super interesting and you don't really need to know a lot to be able to follow the story. We follow three POV's and I'm really enjoying all of them. I'm really enjoying the way. They all seem to be playing alongside each other.
The pacing does seem to be a little off to me. There are long periods of downtime where it's a lot of world building and character development but nothing much action based is happening and it tends to lose me during those periods. There's a lot of talks between people and traveling and while that can be entertaining as far as the storyline, I wish there was a little more action. Of course that did pick up at the later parts of the book.
I enjoyed this book overall will definitely be continuing. I'm hoping for more fast paced action in the second book.
Disclaimer: I read this book as a self purchased physical/audiobook but I did receive a eARC from Orbit through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Book Stats:
📖: 560 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Orbit
Format: Tandem with Physical/Audio I purchased. (full disclosure. I did also receive an eARC from Netgalley when the book was first released, but I did not use that to read this novel.)
Series: 1/3 The Age of Wrath trilogy
Audiobook Stats:
⏰: 19 hours 20 minutes
🎤: Steven Brand
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Format: Singular narrator
I enjoyed the narrator quite a bit. The voice was please to listen to and was clearly a native Spanish speaker. I never had to adjust my speed.
Themes:
💫: Betrayal
💫: Secrets
Representation:
🪽: Norse Mythology
Tropes:
💗: foreign invaders
💗: Unique magic system
🥵: Spice: none
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
General Thoughts:
This starts off very heavy on the fantasy. It does start off quite fast paced, but eventually slows down to build upon characters and the world. I feel like the immediate action sequence pulls you in and keeps you immersed while continuing to build upon the characters and the world. It gives you the feeling of starting off immediately with a mystery of "who are these people?" and why are they fighting and what is happening in this world. It immediately starts building rapport with the main characters so that you can start to care about their motivations and interests.
This leand really heavily into the Norse mythology aspect of the story. It's super interesting and you don't really need to know a lot to be able to follow the story. We follow three POV's and I'm really enjoying all of them. I'm really enjoying the way. They all seem to be playing alongside each other.
The pacing does seem to be a little off to me. There are long periods of downtime where it's a lot of world building and character development but nothing much action based is happening and it tends to lose me during those periods. There's a lot of talks between people and traveling and while that can be entertaining as far as the storyline, I wish there was a little more action. Of course that did pick up at the later parts of the book.
I enjoyed this book overall will definitely be continuing. I'm hoping for more fast paced action in the second book.
Disclaimer: I read this book as a self purchased physical/audiobook but I did receive a eARC from Orbit through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 13, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Orbit for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is another amazing story told by Anthony Ryan. Covenant of Steel is one of my favorite series of all time, and I was thrilled to death to learn of another series being written in the same world. Do you need to read Covenant of Steel before reading this series? Not necessarily but I would recommend it. You can still enjoy this story without having read Covenant of Steel, but you would enjoy the story more if you did. There are references to events that happened in Covenant of Steel as well as references and appearances of characters from the series. Having read Covenant of Steel provides more depth and insight into the world but as I mentioned you can still enjoy the story without having read it.
This story does take place in a different location from Covenant of Steel. This is the land of Ascarlia rather than Albermaine. This land is ruled by the Sister Queens but there is a new threat looming against them.
Unlike Covenant of Steel, this story follows four different point-of-views. Thera, Felnir, Ruhlin, and Elvine. I honestly enjoyed all the point-of-views. They are all connected together in the story but they each have different objectives and goals to follow.
Thera is a servant of the Sister Queens and she is given a mission to find out about the new threat that is facing Ascarlia. Islands are being invaded and massacred and it is her job to learn what is happening and why.
Her brother, Felnir is given his own mission to find the Vault of the Altvar during which he uncovers additional secrets.
Elvine is a young scholar who is thrown into the adventure with Felnir, but she has her own objectives to follow.
Ruhlin is a prisoner of the new threat to Ascarlia and he must learn to fight and tame the beast that is inside of him.
Each of these characters are unique and I enjoyed getting to read their point-of-views. While the book had me hooked the whole time, the last 70% really captured my attention. Secrets started to get revealed, plots started to unfold and the lore of the world became fascinating.
The ending of the book felt like an ending and a beginning (almost like this book is just the prologue). Each story line ended in some manner but the person’s journey is just beginning. I cannot wait for the next book, let alone for this series to be complete. There are so many great plots happening in this story and the lore of this world is fascinating. I cannot wait to see what else is revealed.
Do I recommend this?? Of Course!! Now go read Covenant of Steel before this releases and be sure to grab a copy of this book when it comes out!
This is another amazing story told by Anthony Ryan. Covenant of Steel is one of my favorite series of all time, and I was thrilled to death to learn of another series being written in the same world. Do you need to read Covenant of Steel before reading this series? Not necessarily but I would recommend it. You can still enjoy this story without having read Covenant of Steel, but you would enjoy the story more if you did. There are references to events that happened in Covenant of Steel as well as references and appearances of characters from the series. Having read Covenant of Steel provides more depth and insight into the world but as I mentioned you can still enjoy the story without having read it.
This story does take place in a different location from Covenant of Steel. This is the land of Ascarlia rather than Albermaine. This land is ruled by the Sister Queens but there is a new threat looming against them.
Unlike Covenant of Steel, this story follows four different point-of-views. Thera, Felnir, Ruhlin, and Elvine. I honestly enjoyed all the point-of-views. They are all connected together in the story but they each have different objectives and goals to follow.
Thera is a servant of the Sister Queens and she is given a mission to find out about the new threat that is facing Ascarlia. Islands are being invaded and massacred and it is her job to learn what is happening and why.
Her brother, Felnir is given his own mission to find the Vault of the Altvar during which he uncovers additional secrets.
Elvine is a young scholar who is thrown into the adventure with Felnir, but she has her own objectives to follow.
Ruhlin is a prisoner of the new threat to Ascarlia and he must learn to fight and tame the beast that is inside of him.
Each of these characters are unique and I enjoyed getting to read their point-of-views. While the book had me hooked the whole time, the last 70% really captured my attention. Secrets started to get revealed, plots started to unfold and the lore of the world became fascinating.
The ending of the book felt like an ending and a beginning (almost like this book is just the prologue). Each story line ended in some manner but the person’s journey is just beginning. I cannot wait for the next book, let alone for this series to be complete. There are so many great plots happening in this story and the lore of this world is fascinating. I cannot wait to see what else is revealed.
Do I recommend this?? Of Course!! Now go read Covenant of Steel before this releases and be sure to grab a copy of this book when it comes out!
September 24, 2024
An explosive slow burn (Yes its both) start to a new Norse inspired fantasy trilogy set in the same universe as The Covenant of Steel series, Anthony plunges the reader into his bloody brutal world that is both familiar and new all at once, you can read this as a standalone BUT I highly recommend reading the covenant series to get a well rounded grasp (plus it's fantastic duh) of just how vast this universe is, creating a large cast but making sure each character possesses remarkable depth and authenticty is kind of Anthony's thing, character driven we get multiple POV which unsurprisingly (bombastic side eye) leave us on a cliffs edge, a dark fantasy that has elements of supernatural, incredible character arcs and an immersive world makes this first book an epic introduction to this new series which ticks all my boxes, can't wait for the second book!
December 16, 2023
4,5*
One thing that kept running through my mind since I finished A Tide of Black Steel is the butterfly effect inside of the ripple effect. Evadine Corlauin's ascension to martyr and her brief rule is mentioned several times in the book as being a disgraceful mark in the recent history of the world, but never more as in the lands of Ascarlia where she is called Spedkryl, The Blackheart. Tensions between kingdoms of Ascarlia and Albermaine was long-standing due to contested land of Fjord Geld, a place of great historical and cultural significance to Ascarlians. And back in The Pariah, Alwyn told us all about the battle for Olversahl, the most significant port city of Fjord Geld, that was attacked and overtaken by Ascarlians in a swift move of underhand politics and brutality. But the butterfly effect in that event was the scene when Alwyn and Swain board across the ship and come across two very young boys, with equally blond-haired braids shivering as Albermainers figured out they were just a decoy for the real threat and let them live.
You see, this scene was really not that important in the great scheme of events and I wouldn't be surprised if you don't exactly recall it, but it's somehow it's the point that firmly put the protagonist of this novel on their own destined path.
Set twenty years after the events of Covenant of Steel trilogy, this book centers on a neighboring kingdom of Ascarlia. The old man, Margnus Gruinskard, principal advisor to Sister Queens is, to use Alwyn's own word, miraculously still kicking and plotting. He deploys several people to do his bidding whether they know it or not, whether they want it or not and his great-grandchildren are definitely in the latter category. One of them is Thera Spelrenda, his pride and joy, who is also the Vellihr of Justice to the Sister Queens. She is the one they send to deal with any problem that reach their ears be it by negotiation or be it by force and deliver judgment in the name of Sister Queens. So, her instructions are to sail to Kast Geld, the only geld in the Outer Islands to fail to deliver the required tally of stockfish in recent months and investigate why.
Her disgraced brother, a smuggler Felnir is used to do dirty business for his great-grandfather without right to question or refuse, is instructed to sail to Albermaine's duchy of Cordwain and extract the valuable prisoner.
Elvine Jurest, the newest unwilling employee of Margnus is forced to exchange her safe life as a scribe at the Archive of Sister Queens and use her great knowledge of Albermaine culture and ancient runic of Ascarlia to sail with Felnir in search of the mythical Altvars's Vaults, great treasure of old King of Ascarlia that would gave them a great advantage.
And in the northernmost parts of Ascarlia, black ships with red sails bring death and carnage to Outer Islands.
This is the basic premise of the story that's actually much greater in scope than Covenant of Steel was. The biggest reason for that is the narrative change because Ryan abandoned the first person recount of events (and in my humble opinion, it's what he excels in) and spread the story to four point of view characters in alternating chapters. This narrative choice actually helps to depict the vastness of the land of Ascarlia where news travel by sea and wind and how hard it is to control every corner of the kingdom even if you have Tielwald Margnus Gruinskard in your service. So, the connection between two series is there, but merely tangential as this is a completely different setting and differently told story. For one, the obvious inspiration for Ascarlia are vikings and Norse mythology as they give the great importance to heroic life and even more to heroic death- to be a hero of the saga. They are in the stark contrast to more modern Albermaine, especially when it comes to religion as they worship the pantheon of old gods who give them their blessing with a clang of strikers made in their likeness at the hull of the ship. They scoff at the Covenant faith and their Martyrs pointing at Evadine as their justification. Magic was a present, but a fleeting thing in Alwyn's recount, something more present in Caerith lands, but the message I think Ryan went for is that the more modern and progressive the kingdom is, people are less willing to see, explain and accept something as magic. So, in Ascarlia, with their old gods, magic is definitely a more prominent thing. I actually welcomed this as it brings the whole different vibe to it, with more stakes, and it made me look back and think how Albermainers were actually willingly blind to some things. I especially liked how this was even more accentuated through the fourth point of view, Ruhlin, the boy who who taken as slave from his village in one of the Outer Islands by the red sail invaders due to power in his blood that was thought to be lost and mentioned only in old sagas. Outer Islands are to Ascarlia kind of how beyond of the Wall is to North in GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire. There are remnants of old magic and times still present there and to them North is South, and thus modern and they know nothin'. Plot at the center of the novel deals with familiar theme Ryan is clearly intrigued by and researched a lot: it's religious fanaticism and doing heinous things in the name of god. He explored this especially with Nihvalrians and how it reflects their society as little as we see it through Ruhlin's eyes, but it poses a question for Ascarlia as well, going all the way to issue of Fjord Geld.
The names and titles are Scandinavian inspired and it can get a bit tricky to follow at the beginning as they are also very similar, but I wanted to read this book so much as I was intrigued by the notion of three Queens of Ascarlia, Sister Queens who, in a way, represent a separation of powers. It's an intriguing notion for a fantasy setting and I really wanted to see this kingdom and how it functions and Ryan made my wish come through. Thoroughly.
When it comes to characters, there were no parts I skipped to rush to other as I was interested in what happens in each of them, but I have to say Felnir's was my favorite. Thera is very straight and narrow, a viking version of paladin. The only blemish of her character is her beef with her brother that's kind of childish and nonsensical, and in contrast to her Felnir is living up to his name, brutal and efficient, a bad guy she is ashamed of. But you know there is more to him in how he evokes loyalty of his crew, in how he cares for his younger brother- the youngest of the siblings, in his admittance of being jealous, in not being dignified about unfair cards life has dealt him. Elvine's story is intertwined with Felnir's and Ruhlin's arc of slave trained for gladiator fights were fun to follow as well, but the relationship between siblings and their great-grandfather is the drive of this story. Each of the pov chapters open up with some interesting and violent event and considering it's a new place, unfamiliar to reader. BUT the story really kicked up for me the moment the old man Margnus appeared on the page and he remained to the end the one character whom I looked forward to see. He infused everything with intrigue, with magic and more risk. He is absolutely badass if losing an eye and his wolves didn't convince you from Olversahl where we first got the glimpse of him. And it's not just him: a lot of side characters who our protagonists picked along on their way are more interesting than them: Lynnea, a non-verbal apprentice to Thera, Colwyn whose proves with sword is almost as good as his way with words. Julette Ahlpert who somehow ended up as Nihlvarian slave alongside Ruhlin. And yes, there is a lot of easter-eggs for fans of previous trilogy if you pay attention. :)
It's a long review, with a lot of thoughts, but Ryan's book often leave that kind of impression on me. When on earth did Ryan start plotting this trilogy? He covered so much ground when it comes to history of Ascarlia it had to be on his mind for a long time. Magic was so much more detailed (it did get info-dumpy in parts) and used in various ways. There is so much that happened already... and it's like we barely scratched the surface. As fragmented as each of the parts of the story elt, you are aware they lead to same place; that all their troubles are only a taste of what's really coming.
And I can't wait to see how big of an effect will Ascarlia in war have for the world.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Little, Brown Book Group UK / Orbit and Anthony Ryan for an advanced copy of A Tide of Black Steel. All opinions are my own.
----------------
In my review of The Traitor I wrote that I hope Ryan would revisit this world because he mentioned some interesting things like Sisters Queens of Ascarlia and look at this!
Rejoice fellow Covenant of Steel fans! :)
One thing that kept running through my mind since I finished A Tide of Black Steel is the butterfly effect inside of the ripple effect. Evadine Corlauin's ascension to martyr and her brief rule is mentioned several times in the book as being a disgraceful mark in the recent history of the world, but never more as in the lands of Ascarlia where she is called Spedkryl, The Blackheart. Tensions between kingdoms of Ascarlia and Albermaine was long-standing due to contested land of Fjord Geld, a place of great historical and cultural significance to Ascarlians. And back in The Pariah, Alwyn told us all about the battle for Olversahl, the most significant port city of Fjord Geld, that was attacked and overtaken by Ascarlians in a swift move of underhand politics and brutality. But the butterfly effect in that event was the scene when Alwyn and Swain board across the ship and come across two very young boys, with equally blond-haired braids shivering as Albermainers figured out they were just a decoy for the real threat and let them live.
You see, this scene was really not that important in the great scheme of events and I wouldn't be surprised if you don't exactly recall it, but it's somehow it's the point that firmly put the protagonist of this novel on their own destined path.
Set twenty years after the events of Covenant of Steel trilogy, this book centers on a neighboring kingdom of Ascarlia. The old man, Margnus Gruinskard, principal advisor to Sister Queens is, to use Alwyn's own word, miraculously still kicking and plotting. He deploys several people to do his bidding whether they know it or not, whether they want it or not and his great-grandchildren are definitely in the latter category. One of them is Thera Spelrenda, his pride and joy, who is also the Vellihr of Justice to the Sister Queens. She is the one they send to deal with any problem that reach their ears be it by negotiation or be it by force and deliver judgment in the name of Sister Queens. So, her instructions are to sail to Kast Geld, the only geld in the Outer Islands to fail to deliver the required tally of stockfish in recent months and investigate why.
Her disgraced brother, a smuggler Felnir is used to do dirty business for his great-grandfather without right to question or refuse, is instructed to sail to Albermaine's duchy of Cordwain and extract the valuable prisoner.
Elvine Jurest, the newest unwilling employee of Margnus is forced to exchange her safe life as a scribe at the Archive of Sister Queens and use her great knowledge of Albermaine culture and ancient runic of Ascarlia to sail with Felnir in search of the mythical Altvars's Vaults, great treasure of old King of Ascarlia that would gave them a great advantage.
And in the northernmost parts of Ascarlia, black ships with red sails bring death and carnage to Outer Islands.
This is the basic premise of the story that's actually much greater in scope than Covenant of Steel was. The biggest reason for that is the narrative change because Ryan abandoned the first person recount of events (and in my humble opinion, it's what he excels in) and spread the story to four point of view characters in alternating chapters. This narrative choice actually helps to depict the vastness of the land of Ascarlia where news travel by sea and wind and how hard it is to control every corner of the kingdom even if you have Tielwald Margnus Gruinskard in your service. So, the connection between two series is there, but merely tangential as this is a completely different setting and differently told story. For one, the obvious inspiration for Ascarlia are vikings and Norse mythology as they give the great importance to heroic life and even more to heroic death- to be a hero of the saga. They are in the stark contrast to more modern Albermaine, especially when it comes to religion as they worship the pantheon of old gods who give them their blessing with a clang of strikers made in their likeness at the hull of the ship. They scoff at the Covenant faith and their Martyrs pointing at Evadine as their justification. Magic was a present, but a fleeting thing in Alwyn's recount, something more present in Caerith lands, but the message I think Ryan went for is that the more modern and progressive the kingdom is, people are less willing to see, explain and accept something as magic. So, in Ascarlia, with their old gods, magic is definitely a more prominent thing. I actually welcomed this as it brings the whole different vibe to it, with more stakes, and it made me look back and think how Albermainers were actually willingly blind to some things. I especially liked how this was even more accentuated through the fourth point of view, Ruhlin, the boy who who taken as slave from his village in one of the Outer Islands by the red sail invaders due to power in his blood that was thought to be lost and mentioned only in old sagas. Outer Islands are to Ascarlia kind of how beyond of the Wall is to North in GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire. There are remnants of old magic and times still present there and to them North is South, and thus modern and they know nothin'. Plot at the center of the novel deals with familiar theme Ryan is clearly intrigued by and researched a lot: it's religious fanaticism and doing heinous things in the name of god. He explored this especially with Nihvalrians and how it reflects their society as little as we see it through Ruhlin's eyes, but it poses a question for Ascarlia as well, going all the way to issue of Fjord Geld.
The names and titles are Scandinavian inspired and it can get a bit tricky to follow at the beginning as they are also very similar, but I wanted to read this book so much as I was intrigued by the notion of three Queens of Ascarlia, Sister Queens who, in a way, represent a separation of powers. It's an intriguing notion for a fantasy setting and I really wanted to see this kingdom and how it functions and Ryan made my wish come through. Thoroughly.
When it comes to characters, there were no parts I skipped to rush to other as I was interested in what happens in each of them, but I have to say Felnir's was my favorite. Thera is very straight and narrow, a viking version of paladin. The only blemish of her character is her beef with her brother that's kind of childish and nonsensical, and in contrast to her Felnir is living up to his name, brutal and efficient, a bad guy she is ashamed of. But you know there is more to him in how he evokes loyalty of his crew, in how he cares for his younger brother- the youngest of the siblings, in his admittance of being jealous, in not being dignified about unfair cards life has dealt him. Elvine's story is intertwined with Felnir's and Ruhlin's arc of slave trained for gladiator fights were fun to follow as well, but the relationship between siblings and their great-grandfather is the drive of this story. Each of the pov chapters open up with some interesting and violent event and considering it's a new place, unfamiliar to reader. BUT the story really kicked up for me the moment the old man Margnus appeared on the page and he remained to the end the one character whom I looked forward to see. He infused everything with intrigue, with magic and more risk. He is absolutely badass if losing an eye and his wolves didn't convince you from Olversahl where we first got the glimpse of him. And it's not just him: a lot of side characters who our protagonists picked along on their way are more interesting than them: Lynnea, a non-verbal apprentice to Thera, Colwyn whose proves with sword is almost as good as his way with words. Julette Ahlpert who somehow ended up as Nihlvarian slave alongside Ruhlin. And yes, there is a lot of easter-eggs for fans of previous trilogy if you pay attention. :)
It's a long review, with a lot of thoughts, but Ryan's book often leave that kind of impression on me. When on earth did Ryan start plotting this trilogy? He covered so much ground when it comes to history of Ascarlia it had to be on his mind for a long time. Magic was so much more detailed (it did get info-dumpy in parts) and used in various ways. There is so much that happened already... and it's like we barely scratched the surface. As fragmented as each of the parts of the story elt, you are aware they lead to same place; that all their troubles are only a taste of what's really coming.
And I can't wait to see how big of an effect will Ascarlia in war have for the world.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Little, Brown Book Group UK / Orbit and Anthony Ryan for an advanced copy of A Tide of Black Steel. All opinions are my own.
----------------
In my review of The Traitor I wrote that I hope Ryan would revisit this world because he mentioned some interesting things like Sisters Queens of Ascarlia and look at this!
Rejoice fellow Covenant of Steel fans! :)
June 6, 2025
Stars: 4.5 out of 5
This is epic fantasy at its best - dark, gripping, with compelling characters facing hard challenges.
I love stories based on Nordic and Viking settings, but I read a few disappointing ones as well. Crafting a compelling world based on an existing mythology requires a lot of research and respect for the original setting. I bounced off a few books that did this poorly. Thankfully, Anthony Ryan managed to take the Nordic elements that we know and love and make them his own. The result is a living, breathing world with different nations that feel different in culture, religion, and worldviews. I had fun discovering the different corners of this world along with our protagonists.
I also grew to really care about all four of the narrators we follow in this book. Each of them is different, with a distinct personality, flaws, dreams, and fears. They felt alive and complex. Not always good and righteous, but I could empathize with all of them. And since I grew to care for them, I was also invested in their fates. Whether it was Thera trying to do her duty to the Sister Queens, or her brother Felnir chasing an impossible errand in the hopes of regaining lost honor, or Ruhlin, who has to fight other prisoners to survive, but also fight with the beast within him to keep his humanity.
As far as the story goes, this is the first book in the series, so it serves more to set up the stage than give us any kind of resolutions, but from what I see, the story will be brutal, because the enemy is ruthless and relentless, and the only goal they have is to subjugate and destroy. It is rather fascinating to see how two nations that started believing in the same gods and having a similar culture could turn out so different.
My only issue with the story is that I find it hard to believe that the enemy has so many spies everywhere. This points towards a campaign that was years in the making, because some of those spies ended up in very high places, so they must have been sent to infiltrate all the power structures in the target countries at least a decade or two before the events of this book. Yet nothing that we have seen from Ruhlin's point of view indicates an authority structure capable of such advanced planning. Granted, he has only seen gladiator arenas and slave pens (and people who run those), so his experience is not all-encompassing.
I am definitely looking forward to picking up book 2 and learning more about this world. I also very much hope that our four protagonists will be okay, even if we left several of them in rather dire straits at the end of book 1.
PS: I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is epic fantasy at its best - dark, gripping, with compelling characters facing hard challenges.
I love stories based on Nordic and Viking settings, but I read a few disappointing ones as well. Crafting a compelling world based on an existing mythology requires a lot of research and respect for the original setting. I bounced off a few books that did this poorly. Thankfully, Anthony Ryan managed to take the Nordic elements that we know and love and make them his own. The result is a living, breathing world with different nations that feel different in culture, religion, and worldviews. I had fun discovering the different corners of this world along with our protagonists.
I also grew to really care about all four of the narrators we follow in this book. Each of them is different, with a distinct personality, flaws, dreams, and fears. They felt alive and complex. Not always good and righteous, but I could empathize with all of them. And since I grew to care for them, I was also invested in their fates. Whether it was Thera trying to do her duty to the Sister Queens, or her brother Felnir chasing an impossible errand in the hopes of regaining lost honor, or Ruhlin, who has to fight other prisoners to survive, but also fight with the beast within him to keep his humanity.
As far as the story goes, this is the first book in the series, so it serves more to set up the stage than give us any kind of resolutions, but from what I see, the story will be brutal, because the enemy is ruthless and relentless, and the only goal they have is to subjugate and destroy. It is rather fascinating to see how two nations that started believing in the same gods and having a similar culture could turn out so different.
My only issue with the story is that I find it hard to believe that the enemy has so many spies everywhere. This points towards a campaign that was years in the making, because some of those spies ended up in very high places, so they must have been sent to infiltrate all the power structures in the target countries at least a decade or two before the events of this book. Yet nothing that we have seen from Ruhlin's point of view indicates an authority structure capable of such advanced planning. Granted, he has only seen gladiator arenas and slave pens (and people who run those), so his experience is not all-encompassing.
I am definitely looking forward to picking up book 2 and learning more about this world. I also very much hope that our four protagonists will be okay, even if we left several of them in rather dire straits at the end of book 1.
PS: I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2025
’Battle shall be our glory’
A Tide of Black Steel is the complex and immersive first book in Anthony Ryan’s new Age of Wrath trilogy. While I initially planned to start my reading of Ryan’s books with his debut series, Raven’s Shadow, when I saw this book on Netgalley I just HAD to give it a try. Needless to say, I’m very happy that I did!
A Tide of Black Steel follows the points of view of four characters; Thera, a renowned warrior and Vellhir of Justice for the powerful Sister Queens, her brother Fulnir, disgraced murderer and exile on the path to regain his honour, Ruhlin, a captured slave and man with the powers of a monster in his blood, and Elvine, a learned scholar, heretic and woman in search of the mysterious lost treasures of the Gods. Each has a significant role to play in the fate of Ascarlia, as a looming threat rises in the distant Fire Isles.
The writing here is just superb, very reminiscent to me of John Gwynne, and kept my undivided attention whenever I was reading. While the build-up to the ‘action’ and overall storyline is slow, especially within part one, the pay-off is worth it, with a plot that unravels to be something utterly immersive and gripping by this books conclusion.
Ascarlia, while based on our real Viking-age history, still manages to toe the line between inspiration and uniqueness, something that I am forever impressed by. The history is rich, religions both intricate and vivid, and I was very impressed by the way in which Ryan explains his world-building in clear and engaging detail, without ever slipping into information-dumping.
To conclude this review, I would just like to discuss the main four protagonists in a little more detail.
Thera, the Black Spear
My favourite point of view throughout the story, Thera is a strong voice in the narrative, and a compelling lead. Her task, to understand and bring to justice the devastation that plagues the Outer Isles, was incredibly immersive throughout. I enjoyed her rapport with her crew, particularly her relationship with the mysterious Lynnea. I cannot wait to see more of her story in the next instalment, especially after that ending!
Fulnir, the Redtooth
Fulnir acted as well-needed opposition to the calm and calculating nature of Thera, being the much more hard-headed sibling. Even so, I enjoyed his character quite a lot, and the parallels in how he ran his outlaw crew compared to Thera’s more law-abiding one. His story was not one I particularly was taken by, but his ending was certainly intriguing, and I am looking forward to seeing where his story goes. I’m just not a fan of the treasure-hunting trope in fantasy books, so his plot was at a disadvantage throughout.
Ruhlin, the Fire Blood
Definitely up there in terms of enjoyment alongside Thera’s plot, Ruhlin is probably my favourite character in the story so far. He is incredibly sympathetic, and I will forever be a massive fan of quiet but deadly characters with keen minds. His powers of a mysterious and unknown origin served to fuel some pretty gnarly but well-done battle scenes, and I think I will come to love his little troupe of misfits in the coming books. It was great to see the people of the Fire Isles through a first-person perspective, and not just as the vaguely dangerous threat they are in the other points of view. His chapters helped develop the overall narrative ten-fold.
Elvine, the Heretic Scribe
My least favourite character and point of view in the story, Elvine’s purpose in my opinion wasn’t very engaging until the 50% mark. Once her journey combined with another one of the main four, it was only then that I came to like her plot, and I don’t believe that is based on the own merits of her character. I found her a little dull, and she is what brought the rating of this book down for me. While I will always appreciate a strong and intelligent female point of view, it is hard to have much interest in Elvine’s when we already have Thera, a much more engaging character! I hope to see improvement in the next instalment, but once again, with THAT ending, I’m sure I will.
Overall, A Tide of Black Steel gets 4/5 stars. While I would wholly recommend reading Ryan’s Covenant of Steel trilogy first (as this series is set in the same world, 20 years later), do not worry about facing spoilers in this for that series, as there are none. It will, however, make some of the references and little details, have more impact for those that have, as I know I was missing out a little when they were made!
thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review! <3
A Tide of Black Steel is the complex and immersive first book in Anthony Ryan’s new Age of Wrath trilogy. While I initially planned to start my reading of Ryan’s books with his debut series, Raven’s Shadow, when I saw this book on Netgalley I just HAD to give it a try. Needless to say, I’m very happy that I did!
A Tide of Black Steel follows the points of view of four characters; Thera, a renowned warrior and Vellhir of Justice for the powerful Sister Queens, her brother Fulnir, disgraced murderer and exile on the path to regain his honour, Ruhlin, a captured slave and man with the powers of a monster in his blood, and Elvine, a learned scholar, heretic and woman in search of the mysterious lost treasures of the Gods. Each has a significant role to play in the fate of Ascarlia, as a looming threat rises in the distant Fire Isles.
The writing here is just superb, very reminiscent to me of John Gwynne, and kept my undivided attention whenever I was reading. While the build-up to the ‘action’ and overall storyline is slow, especially within part one, the pay-off is worth it, with a plot that unravels to be something utterly immersive and gripping by this books conclusion.
Ascarlia, while based on our real Viking-age history, still manages to toe the line between inspiration and uniqueness, something that I am forever impressed by. The history is rich, religions both intricate and vivid, and I was very impressed by the way in which Ryan explains his world-building in clear and engaging detail, without ever slipping into information-dumping.
To conclude this review, I would just like to discuss the main four protagonists in a little more detail.
Thera, the Black Spear
My favourite point of view throughout the story, Thera is a strong voice in the narrative, and a compelling lead. Her task, to understand and bring to justice the devastation that plagues the Outer Isles, was incredibly immersive throughout. I enjoyed her rapport with her crew, particularly her relationship with the mysterious Lynnea. I cannot wait to see more of her story in the next instalment, especially after that ending!
Fulnir, the Redtooth
Fulnir acted as well-needed opposition to the calm and calculating nature of Thera, being the much more hard-headed sibling. Even so, I enjoyed his character quite a lot, and the parallels in how he ran his outlaw crew compared to Thera’s more law-abiding one. His story was not one I particularly was taken by, but his ending was certainly intriguing, and I am looking forward to seeing where his story goes. I’m just not a fan of the treasure-hunting trope in fantasy books, so his plot was at a disadvantage throughout.
Ruhlin, the Fire Blood
Definitely up there in terms of enjoyment alongside Thera’s plot, Ruhlin is probably my favourite character in the story so far. He is incredibly sympathetic, and I will forever be a massive fan of quiet but deadly characters with keen minds. His powers of a mysterious and unknown origin served to fuel some pretty gnarly but well-done battle scenes, and I think I will come to love his little troupe of misfits in the coming books. It was great to see the people of the Fire Isles through a first-person perspective, and not just as the vaguely dangerous threat they are in the other points of view. His chapters helped develop the overall narrative ten-fold.
Elvine, the Heretic Scribe
My least favourite character and point of view in the story, Elvine’s purpose in my opinion wasn’t very engaging until the 50% mark. Once her journey combined with another one of the main four, it was only then that I came to like her plot, and I don’t believe that is based on the own merits of her character. I found her a little dull, and she is what brought the rating of this book down for me. While I will always appreciate a strong and intelligent female point of view, it is hard to have much interest in Elvine’s when we already have Thera, a much more engaging character! I hope to see improvement in the next instalment, but once again, with THAT ending, I’m sure I will.
Overall, A Tide of Black Steel gets 4/5 stars. While I would wholly recommend reading Ryan’s Covenant of Steel trilogy first (as this series is set in the same world, 20 years later), do not worry about facing spoilers in this for that series, as there are none. It will, however, make some of the references and little details, have more impact for those that have, as I know I was missing out a little when they were made!
thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review! <3
September 14, 2024
Anthony Ryan writes terrific epic fantasy. Yes, his stories have many characters, and it’s sometimes hard at the beginning to remember who’s who, but it’s worth it. This start of a new trilogy is no exception. Ryan draws you right into a Norse-inspired world, and he does not shy away from the bloodiness of war. If you don’t care for violence, I’d steer clear.
I’m bummed I have to wait another year for the next installment to come out.
My thanks to NetGalley and Orbit Books for the eARC. I am writing this review voluntarily.
I’m bummed I have to wait another year for the next installment to come out.
My thanks to NetGalley and Orbit Books for the eARC. I am writing this review voluntarily.
July 23, 2024
I've liked Anthony Ryan's previous books, but am plagued by the same problems as those books. I love the story, don't like the characters. Everyone is one-dimensional, none of the main characters change much. Everyone is just doing things and moving fast, which makes the story fun. But when the pirate/thug character has the same dialogue style as the linguist/school girl, and they speak the same as everyone else, dialogue and narration seems wooden. That made sense in a previous series where the narrating characters were siblings and had the same upbringing, but here it's glaring and frustrating that each chapter feels the same. A fun story, but not my favorite style.
**I received this book from NetGalley, this is my honest review.
**I received this book from NetGalley, this is my honest review.
April 9, 2025
I'm ✨ giving up ✨- DNF'd at 68 pages in.
I've been trying a new "if you're not interested within 50 pages, DNF it and move on" strategy, and this book just has too much going on. I'm usually fine with multi-perspective works, I read a ton of them, but not when there are 5 perspectives and each perspective requires you to know at least 5 more people and some cultural things about the world while the authors strategy to get you to do this is to kind of just throw you in the pool and hope you swim. By the time I get back around to the first character, I've honestly forgotten who they are, where they are, who they're with, and why I care about them.
Feels like a crime but DNFing because I'm just not interested, which sucks, because we know how much I like mythology-based stuff.
I've been trying a new "if you're not interested within 50 pages, DNF it and move on" strategy, and this book just has too much going on. I'm usually fine with multi-perspective works, I read a ton of them, but not when there are 5 perspectives and each perspective requires you to know at least 5 more people and some cultural things about the world while the authors strategy to get you to do this is to kind of just throw you in the pool and hope you swim. By the time I get back around to the first character, I've honestly forgotten who they are, where they are, who they're with, and why I care about them.
Feels like a crime but DNFing because I'm just not interested, which sucks, because we know how much I like mythology-based stuff.
January 23, 2025
Gotta love it when a book finishes red.
4⭐️
4⭐️
February 28, 2024
4,5*
One thing that kept running through my mind since I finished A Tide of Black Steel is the butterfly effect inside of the ripple effect. Evadine Corlauin's ascension to martyr and her brief rule is mentioned several times in the book as being a disgraceful mark in the recent history of the world, but never more as in the lands of Ascarlia where she is called Spedkryl, The Blackheart. Tensions between kingdoms of Ascarlia and Albermaine was long-standing due to contested land of Fjord Geld, a place of great historical and cultural significance to Ascarlians. And back in The Pariah, Alwyn told us all about the battle for Olversahl, the most significant port city of Fjord Geld, that was attacked and overtaken by Ascarlians in a swift move of underhand politics and brutality. But the butterfly effect in that event was the scene when Alwyn and Swain board across the ship and come across two very young boys, with equally blond-haired braids shivering as Albermainers figured out they were just a decoy for the real threat and let them live.
You see, this scene was really not that important in the great scheme of events and I wouldn't be surprised if you don't exactly recall it, but it's somehow it's the point that firmly put the protagonist of this novel on their own destined path.
Set twenty years after the events of Covenant of Steel trilogy, this book centers on a neighboring kingdom of Ascarlia. The old man, Margnus Gruinskard, principal advisor to Sister Queens is, to use Alwyn's own word, miraculously still kicking and plotting. He deploys several people to do his bidding whether they know it or not, whether they want it or not and his great-grandchildren are definitely in the latter category. One of them is Thera Spelrenda, his pride and joy, who is also the Vellihr of Justice to the Sister Queens. She is the one they send to deal with any problem that reach their ears be it by negotiation or be it by force and deliver judgment in the name of Sister Queens. So, her instructions are to sail to Kast Geld, the only geld in the Outer Islands to fail to deliver the required tally of stockfish in recent months and investigate why.
Her disgraced brother, a smuggler Felnir is used to do dirty business for his great-grandfather without right to question or refuse, is instructed to sail to Albermaine's duchy of Cordwain and extract the valuable prisoner.
Elvine Jurest, the newest unwilling employee of Margnus is forced to exchange her safe life as a scribe at the Archive of Sister Queens and use her great knowledge of Albermaine culture and ancient runic of Ascarlia to sail with Felnir in search of the mythical Altvars's Vaults, great treasure of old King of Ascarlia that would gave them a great advantage.
And in the northernmost parts of Ascarlia, black ships with red sails bring death and carnage to Outer Islands.
This is the basic premise of the story that's actually much greater in scope than Covenant of Steel was. The biggest reason for that is the narrative change because Ryan abandoned the first person recount of events (and in my humble opinion, it's what he excels in) and spread the story to four point of view characters in alternating chapters. This narrative choice actually helps to depict the vastness of the land of Ascarlia where news travel by sea and wind and how hard it is to control every corner of the kingdom even if you have Tielwald Margnus Gruinskard in your service. So, the connection between two series is there, but merely tangential as this is a completely different setting and differently told story. For one, the obvious inspiration for Ascarlia are vikings and Norse mythology as they give the great importance to heroic life and even more to heroic death- to be a hero of the saga. They are in the stark contrast to more modern Albermaine, especially when it comes to religion as they worship the pantheon of old gods who give them their blessing with a clang of strikers made in their likeness at the hull of the ship. They scoff at the Covenant faith and their Martyrs pointing at Evadine as their justification. Magic was a present, but a fleeting thing in Alwyn's recount, something more present in Caerith lands, but the message I think Ryan went for is that the more modern and progressive the kingdom is, people are less willing to see, explain and accept something as magic. So, in Ascarlia, with their old gods, magic is definitely a more prominent thing. I actually welcomed this as it brings the whole different vibe to it, with more stakes, and it made me look back and think how Albermainers were actually willingly blind to some things. I especially liked how this was even more accentuated through the fourth point of view, Ruhlin, the boy who who taken as slave from his village in one of the Outer Islands by the red sail invaders due to power in his blood that was thought to be lost and mentioned only in old sagas. Outer Islands are to Ascarlia kind of how beyond of the Wall is to North in GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire. There are remnants of old magic and times still present there and to them North is South, and thus modern and they know nothin'. Plot at the center of the novel deals with familiar theme Ryan is clearly intrigued by and researched a lot: it's religious fanaticism and doing heinous things in the name of god. He explored this especially with Nihvalrians and how it reflects their society as little as we see it through Ruhlin's eyes, but it poses a question for Ascarlia as well, going all the way to issue of Fjord Geld.
The names and titles are Scandinavian inspired and it can get a bit tricky to follow at the beginning as they are also very similar, but I wanted to read this book so much as I was intrigued by the notion of three Queens of Ascarlia, Sister Queens who, in a way, represent a separation of powers. It's an intriguing notion for a fantasy setting and I really wanted to see this kingdom and how it functions and Ryan made my wish come through. Thoroughly.
When it comes to characters, there were no parts I skipped to rush to other as I was interested in what happens in each of them, but I have to say Felnir's was my favorite. Thera is very straight and narrow, a viking version of paladin. The only blemish of her character is her beef with her brother that's kind of childish and nonsensical, and in contrast to her Felnir is living up to his name, brutal and efficient, a bad guy she is ashamed of. But you know there is more to him in how he evokes loyalty of his crew, in how he cares for his younger brother- the youngest of the siblings, in his admittance of being jealous, in not being dignified about unfair cards life has dealt him. Elvine's story is intertwined with Felnir's and Ruhlin's arc of slave trained for gladiator fights were fun to follow as well, but the relationship between siblings and their great-grandfather is the drive of this story. Each of the pov chapters open up with some interesting and violent event and considering it's a new place, unfamiliar to reader. BUT the story really kicked up for me the moment the old man Margnus appeared on the page and he remained to the end the one character whom I looked forward to see. He infused everything with intrigue, with magic and more risk. He is absolutely badass if losing an eye and his wolves didn't convince you from Olversahl where we first got the glimpse of him. And it's not just him: a lot of side characters who our protagonists picked along on their way are more interesting than them: Lynnea, a non-verbal apprentice to Thera, Colwyn whose proves with sword is almost as good as his way with words. Julette Ahlpert who somehow ended up as Nihlvarian slave alongside Ruhlin. And yes, there is a lot of easter-eggs for fans of previous trilogy if you pay attention. :)
It's a long review, with a lot of thoughts, but Ryan's book often leave that kind of impression on me. When on earth did Ryan start plotting this trilogy? He covered so much ground when it comes to history of Ascarlia it had to be on his mind for a long time. Magic was so much more detailed (it did get info-dumpy in parts) and used in various ways. There is so much that happened already... and it's like we barely scratched the surface. As fragmented as each of the parts of the story elt, you are aware they lead to same place; that all their troubles are only a taste of what's really coming.
And I can't wait to see how big of an effect will Ascarlia in war have for the world.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Little, Brown Book Group UK / Orbit and Anthony Ryan for an advanced copy of A Tide of Black Steel. All opinions are my own.
----------------
In my review of The Traitor I wrote that I hope Ryan would revisit this world because he mentioned some interesting things like Sisters Queens of Ascarlia and look at this!
Rejoice fellow Covenant of Steel fans! :)
One thing that kept running through my mind since I finished A Tide of Black Steel is the butterfly effect inside of the ripple effect. Evadine Corlauin's ascension to martyr and her brief rule is mentioned several times in the book as being a disgraceful mark in the recent history of the world, but never more as in the lands of Ascarlia where she is called Spedkryl, The Blackheart. Tensions between kingdoms of Ascarlia and Albermaine was long-standing due to contested land of Fjord Geld, a place of great historical and cultural significance to Ascarlians. And back in The Pariah, Alwyn told us all about the battle for Olversahl, the most significant port city of Fjord Geld, that was attacked and overtaken by Ascarlians in a swift move of underhand politics and brutality. But the butterfly effect in that event was the scene when Alwyn and Swain board across the ship and come across two very young boys, with equally blond-haired braids shivering as Albermainers figured out they were just a decoy for the real threat and let them live.
You see, this scene was really not that important in the great scheme of events and I wouldn't be surprised if you don't exactly recall it, but it's somehow it's the point that firmly put the protagonist of this novel on their own destined path.
Set twenty years after the events of Covenant of Steel trilogy, this book centers on a neighboring kingdom of Ascarlia. The old man, Margnus Gruinskard, principal advisor to Sister Queens is, to use Alwyn's own word, miraculously still kicking and plotting. He deploys several people to do his bidding whether they know it or not, whether they want it or not and his great-grandchildren are definitely in the latter category. One of them is Thera Spelrenda, his pride and joy, who is also the Vellihr of Justice to the Sister Queens. She is the one they send to deal with any problem that reach their ears be it by negotiation or be it by force and deliver judgment in the name of Sister Queens. So, her instructions are to sail to Kast Geld, the only geld in the Outer Islands to fail to deliver the required tally of stockfish in recent months and investigate why.
Her disgraced brother, a smuggler Felnir is used to do dirty business for his great-grandfather without right to question or refuse, is instructed to sail to Albermaine's duchy of Cordwain and extract the valuable prisoner.
Elvine Jurest, the newest unwilling employee of Margnus is forced to exchange her safe life as a scribe at the Archive of Sister Queens and use her great knowledge of Albermaine culture and ancient runic of Ascarlia to sail with Felnir in search of the mythical Altvars's Vaults, great treasure of old King of Ascarlia that would gave them a great advantage.
And in the northernmost parts of Ascarlia, black ships with red sails bring death and carnage to Outer Islands.
This is the basic premise of the story that's actually much greater in scope than Covenant of Steel was. The biggest reason for that is the narrative change because Ryan abandoned the first person recount of events (and in my humble opinion, it's what he excels in) and spread the story to four point of view characters in alternating chapters. This narrative choice actually helps to depict the vastness of the land of Ascarlia where news travel by sea and wind and how hard it is to control every corner of the kingdom even if you have Tielwald Margnus Gruinskard in your service. So, the connection between two series is there, but merely tangential as this is a completely different setting and differently told story. For one, the obvious inspiration for Ascarlia are vikings and Norse mythology as they give the great importance to heroic life and even more to heroic death- to be a hero of the saga. They are in the stark contrast to more modern Albermaine, especially when it comes to religion as they worship the pantheon of old gods who give them their blessing with a clang of strikers made in their likeness at the hull of the ship. They scoff at the Covenant faith and their Martyrs pointing at Evadine as their justification. Magic was a present, but a fleeting thing in Alwyn's recount, something more present in Caerith lands, but the message I think Ryan went for is that the more modern and progressive the kingdom is, people are less willing to see, explain and accept something as magic. So, in Ascarlia, with their old gods, magic is definitely a more prominent thing. I actually welcomed this as it brings the whole different vibe to it, with more stakes, and it made me look back and think how Albermainers were actually willingly blind to some things. I especially liked how this was even more accentuated through the fourth point of view, Ruhlin, the boy who who taken as slave from his village in one of the Outer Islands by the red sail invaders due to power in his blood that was thought to be lost and mentioned only in old sagas. Outer Islands are to Ascarlia kind of how beyond of the Wall is to North in GRRM's A Song of Ice and Fire. There are remnants of old magic and times still present there and to them North is South, and thus modern and they know nothin'. Plot at the center of the novel deals with familiar theme Ryan is clearly intrigued by and researched a lot: it's religious fanaticism and doing heinous things in the name of god. He explored this especially with Nihvalrians and how it reflects their society as little as we see it through Ruhlin's eyes, but it poses a question for Ascarlia as well, going all the way to issue of Fjord Geld.
The names and titles are Scandinavian inspired and it can get a bit tricky to follow at the beginning as they are also very similar, but I wanted to read this book so much as I was intrigued by the notion of three Queens of Ascarlia, Sister Queens who, in a way, represent a separation of powers. It's an intriguing notion for a fantasy setting and I really wanted to see this kingdom and how it functions and Ryan made my wish come through. Thoroughly.
When it comes to characters, there were no parts I skipped to rush to other as I was interested in what happens in each of them, but I have to say Felnir's was my favorite. Thera is very straight and narrow, a viking version of paladin. The only blemish of her character is her beef with her brother that's kind of childish and nonsensical, and in contrast to her Felnir is living up to his name, brutal and efficient, a bad guy she is ashamed of. But you know there is more to him in how he evokes loyalty of his crew, in how he cares for his younger brother- the youngest of the siblings, in his admittance of being jealous, in not being dignified about unfair cards life has dealt him. Elvine's story is intertwined with Felnir's and Ruhlin's arc of slave trained for gladiator fights were fun to follow as well, but the relationship between siblings and their great-grandfather is the drive of this story. Each of the pov chapters open up with some interesting and violent event and considering it's a new place, unfamiliar to reader. BUT the story really kicked up for me the moment the old man Margnus appeared on the page and he remained to the end the one character whom I looked forward to see. He infused everything with intrigue, with magic and more risk. He is absolutely badass if losing an eye and his wolves didn't convince you from Olversahl where we first got the glimpse of him. And it's not just him: a lot of side characters who our protagonists picked along on their way are more interesting than them: Lynnea, a non-verbal apprentice to Thera, Colwyn whose proves with sword is almost as good as his way with words. Julette Ahlpert who somehow ended up as Nihlvarian slave alongside Ruhlin. And yes, there is a lot of easter-eggs for fans of previous trilogy if you pay attention. :)
It's a long review, with a lot of thoughts, but Ryan's book often leave that kind of impression on me. When on earth did Ryan start plotting this trilogy? He covered so much ground when it comes to history of Ascarlia it had to be on his mind for a long time. Magic was so much more detailed (it did get info-dumpy in parts) and used in various ways. There is so much that happened already... and it's like we barely scratched the surface. As fragmented as each of the parts of the story elt, you are aware they lead to same place; that all their troubles are only a taste of what's really coming.
And I can't wait to see how big of an effect will Ascarlia in war have for the world.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Little, Brown Book Group UK / Orbit and Anthony Ryan for an advanced copy of A Tide of Black Steel. All opinions are my own.
----------------
In my review of The Traitor I wrote that I hope Ryan would revisit this world because he mentioned some interesting things like Sisters Queens of Ascarlia and look at this!
Rejoice fellow Covenant of Steel fans! :)
August 8, 2026
im convinced nobody does amazing book 1's like anthony ryan this was just awesome
August 3, 2026
Solid start to the trilogy, and what an ending!
February 8, 2026
Anthony Ryan is one of my favorite as far as fantasy goes. His Covenant of steel series has been phenomenal too. When i heard he had written a Viking type series which takes place in the same world as Covenant of Steel, I immediately got it. And I’m glad I did. I recommend reading Covenant of Steel first because there are quite a few crossover characters being mentioned. Anthony Ryan has such a beautiful prose that even the slower parts are beautiful to read. Easy 5 Star books
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