Blood of the Son

by Clive T. Wright

The Forest wants a child.
The Blood wants a king.
The gods are watching—but they will save no one.

When creatures emerge from the Forever Forest, giants carved with runes and bound to Blood Magic, the kingdom of Valnar begins to break.

Alfred is sent north to face them. But the true threat lies within him. Something ancient is waking in his blood.

His brother Carl wants no part of war or destiny. But in the capital, he is pulled into a truth far darker than he imagined, one that will demand everything he has to give.

Earl Osmund has already made his choice. Guided by a Blood Priest from an ancient empire beyond the mountains, he will tear the kingdom apart. Even his soul.

As war spreads and the forest begins to stir,

Brother against destiny.
Man against monster.
Blood against blood.

Because in Valnar, power is never given.
It is taken.

And it always demands a price.

--
Book One of the Valnari Saga.

Genres: Fantasy

404 pages, Paperback

Published July 25, 2026

About the author

Clive T. Wright is a debut epic fantasy author based in Jersey. Born in the small village of Havenstreet on the Isle of Wight, he has lived in Jersey for more than thirty years with his wife, Jo, and close to his daughter, Keeva, and his grandchildren. And a great son-in-law, Connor, who provides him with an endless supply of fish.

After a thirty-year career in international finance, Clive took early retirement to pursue a lifelong dream: creating worlds shaped by history, mythology, and the darker edges of human nature.

A lifelong lover of fantasy, history, myth, and legend, he draws inspiration from the landscapes and folklore. His debut novel, Blood of the Son, is the first book in the Valnari Saga—an epic tale of ancient forests, blood magic, fractured loyalties, and the cost of destiny.

When not writing, Clive enjoys travelling, studying French, reading fantasy and science fiction, tending his garden, practising yoga, swimming, cooking, and baking bread.

Join Clive as he explores epic fantasy, reading, writing, and the world he has created.
Instagram: @clivetwrightauthor
TikTok: @clive.wright38

Reviews

[Maude Br · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars : What an incredible indie gem.

I had the chance to discover Blood of the Son after the author reached out to me, and I was blown away by the quality of this book. This was one of those indie books where I very quickly just forgot I was reading indie fantasy.

First, the amount of research behind this book was seriously impressive and it allowed the author to create a world that felt incredibly... tangible. I could see this world, I understood how it worked, and (most importantly) I believed in it. Everything felt like it belonged there and made perfect sense.

The writing was top-tier, not too poetic, but never simplistic either. The action scenes in particular were fantastic: grim and gripping without ever overstaying their welcome. The level of violence was HIGH, but it never felt gratuitous. I loved that it felt like a natural part of this super brutal world. There were a few moments where I got a little lost during shifts between characters, and occasionally I wished a description had been clearer, but it never pulled me out of the story.

And this was a rich, rich book, with a large cast, a complex story, political intrigue, mythology... and all of it worked together beautifully. The characters felt real and, even better, they actually changed as the story unfolded, something that can make or break a book for me. Both brothers were standouts, I loved them, I was rooting for them and by the end, I had a strong sense of who they were. My one wish is that I would have loved a female character with a more substantial role in the story. Maybe in the sequel? 👀

I really can’t say enough how immersed I was. I mean, I stayed up until ONE IN THE MORNING to finish it because that ending was absolutely bonckers.

A huge win for Clive’s book. If you love The Gael Song saga, you need to put Blood of the Son on your radar.

[Carina_inkdrinker · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 stars

Ancient runes, forbidden magic, and everything dark, these were the ingredients chosen to create the perfect little grim dark world.

Yeah, it's the powerpuff theme song. But it works!

Clive has made a great grimdark world in his debut, and it was very easy to get quickly pulled into his comfortable writing.

When you are done with the book you will see how much he has put into his world and characters. Where you follow mostly 3 pov's, with some smaller side pov's to fill the cracks in the world.

Carl is one that ended up with being my favorite. He can be what you would call an underdog or a coward, and just wants to be in his safe place, and live a safe life with his family. But has an exceptional character growth. Where he really shows that he is more that he seems like, and I could never get enough reading his side.

Earl Osmond, would be my second one. The son of a traitor, where revenge is worth more that blood, so with all his schemes and plans. That made it easy to root for, and always exciting to see what he was up to.

Alfred I feel is like 50/50 type of character for me, sometime I like him, sometime I don't like him, sometime I feel sorry for him, and sometime I think he needs a push down a cliff. But he's a great character, but I don't really know where I have him, and I don't even think he knows either so.

With a lovely 2 page maps on the start, you know you are in for a epic ride. The lore is great, especially with everything you learn about the magic, every danger, monsters and creatures that lingers in the darkness, creeping around, and the war that is being brewed to perfection.

Really excited to see what book 2 brings. If you love grimdark, definitely check this one out.

I am a seed.
I don't know what I will grow into.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚔️ Blood of the Son Review ⚔️

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel by Clive Wright. He’s done a fantastic job that shows care and love for his characters and the world he has built. Overall, the book was slower paced in the beginning as we built up the necessary knowledge to follow the story; but at no point did I feel overwhelmed by the information. Once the story developed, it became genuinely difficult for me to put the book down!

Clive keeps the characters dialogue short and sharp, but the dialogue still carries emotion and complexity to his characters and adds to the political intrigue. I particularly enjoyed the relationship dynamics between brothers Alfred and Carl; and how due to the threat of ancient creatures carved with runes instigated by blood magic, the two brothers have been catapulted on their own individual paths of survival and sacrifice.

The story is filled with political intrigue inspired by Anglo-Saxon and a little sprinkle of Norse mythology, with lots of interesting and exceptional characters and on the edge of your seat battle scenes. This is a story that has been weaved masterfully with excellent research done by the author; and you can really see a lot of love has been poured into these characters and the world itself. My heart dropped at the end of the book knowing I’m going to have to wait to find out what happens next!

Without providing spoilers, I highly recommend picking up this debut novel if you’re a fan of epic fantasy, Anglo Saxon/Norse Mythology or just a John Gwynne fan. Clive has truly created a masterpiece that is individual and has an expansive world that can hop out of a page, so much so I can almost smell the Forever Forest!

Thank you to Clive T Wright for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I’m excited to see what comes next in the Valnari Saga!

[Taryn Hawkins · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

What a ride this one was!

The author has built an incredibly intricate world here full of creatures, magic and lore and it’s evident that he has put his whole heart into this. We’ve got a reluctant (hero? Honestly not sure yet and that’s part of the fun), plotting/political maneuverings, a brewing war, druids, blood magic and dark and deadly forest. The setting is dark and grim. The world building is not too overwhelming, the magic system is based on runes and the writing is graceful yet straight to the point.

There are a few POVs in this which can take some getting used to, but my favorites by far were the brothers- Carl and Alfred. I would consider Alfred to be the main character - he is an Anani who was adopted as a very young child into a Valnari family and it’s obvious that he’s loved deeply by his father and brother. Though, he is different and his differences still create a rift within the family and with his fellow warriors. Alfred has some kind of important destiny in this brewing war and beyond but I’m not sure what it is, and he isn’t either!

Carl, Alfred’s brother and the true son of the Thegn, is also a layered and lovable character. I didn’t expect for the brother to be going off to find himself too, but he really feels like he has something to prove to himself and to everyone else. His story really pulled on my heartstrings and it was so unexpected! These two brother are right in the middle of the conflict, yet they are worlds apart.

If you’re into Norse history/societies/mythology, this might be a super fun read for you and I would recommend you give it a go! Or if you are into epic dark fantasy or a fan of John Gwynne.

[Keeva Ferrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantasy has always been my favourite genre, so I was really excited to read Blood of the Son, although I’ll admit, grimdark fantasy isn’t usually something I reach for. Somehow, though, this book completely pulled me in and had me wanting to keep reading.

What I loved most was how much thought has gone into the world itself. The different types of magic and all the little details woven throughout the story made it feel like a world that genuinely exists beyond the pages. There’s so much to discover, and I really enjoyed getting lost in it.

The story of Arthur and Carl was probably the part that surprised me the most emotionally. Their relationship gives the story a real heart, and seeing their different paths unfold made everything feel much more personal. I found myself really caring about what happened to them, which made some of the darker parts of the story hit even harder.

And that ENDING! 😭 It leaves you wanting more, which is exactly what I want from the first book in a series.

I genuinely think Clive has created something really special here, especially for a debut. I went into it not knowing whether grimdark fantasy would be for me, and I came out the other side completely invested in the world, the characters and what happens next.

If you love fantasy, magic, darker storylines, complicated characters and a book that leaves you desperate for the next instalment, definitely give Blood of the Son a chance. ❤️

[Michaelmag · Rating 4 out of 5]

wreathed in history and folklore.

Blood of the Son was exactly what I hoped it would be. The story follows two brothers who must go on separate quests to find themselves. Set against a backdrop of Anglo-Saxon inspired history and folklore, the book doesn’t pull its punches on this premise. It sucks you into that world! From shires, earls, wergilds, eotans (giants), druids and fyrds, you are given a feast of old world references that make this book feel real and lived in.

The characters in this book were interesting and varied. Alfred is Oscar worthy as the outcast Anani warrior, moody, lonely, trying to find his place. Carl, his Valnari brother, is due to inherit, but is a self proclaimed coward. The dynamic between these two is great, as the outcast is proficient and trust worthy, whilst the accepted brother is less worthy, and the two know it. Their relationship, alongside the Anglo worldbuilding, is the highlight of the book. There are other interesting characters such as the Druid disciple who can turn into a bear, that keep the story exciting.

The plot was engaging, with the usurpation plot keeping the politics intriguing and the blood magic and wyrd magic effecting Alfred adding the mystery elements all fantasy stories need.

The writing style was a mixed bag. The authors prose was fantastic, with some really standout lines throughout the book really impressing me. However he also has the POV switch to other characters within the same section which I found very confusing at times. A character would think something, and I didn’t know which of the party’s head I was supposed to be in. Even when two enemies faced one another, it would jump between their POVs in the same section, so I wouldn’t know who was doing what.

Other than the POV issue, my only other minor gripe was the ending. How the politic story line was tied up didn’t feel satisfying to me, and then the familiarity of some of the characters right at the end seemed strange as I don’t recall them being set up as knowing another, so to have them closing out the book seemed odd.

Overall, this was a fantastic book that I really enjoyed. Anglo-Saxon and Celtic/germanic folklore is my favourite and this book had that in abundance. I can’t wait to see where this author goes next with the series.

I received an advance copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Lane Ennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every epic fantasy reader knows the double-edged sword of a dense world-building opening, and Blood of the Son definitely makes you earn the ride.

​The Rough Edges:

The first 100 pages hit with classic genre heavy-handedness: information overload, jarring head-hopping mid-paragraph, and a sluggish pace while the board gets set up. Navigating the shifting perspectives early on required extra focus, making the initial entry point feel like a bit of a steep climb.

​Where It Finds Its Fire:

Once Clive hits his stride past that century mark, the narrative clarity locks in, the plot hooks sink deep, and the book becomes absolute light speed. The structural friction melts away into a story that's nearly impossible to put down. Special mention has to go to the combat—Wright crafts battle sequences that are visceral, tactical, and relentlessly engaging.

​The Verdict:

If you can power through a dense setup, the payoff past page 100 makes Blood of the Son an incredibly rewarding read.

[Erika George · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

Blood of the Son is a Mythology inspired historic fantasy!

Filled with characters like Druids, Thralls and dark creatures, this story is a grimdark epic!
The story follows three main characters but creates many more POV characters.

I think Alfred was my favorite, he had the hardest start and sort of took the most magical path.

Earl Osmond was what I had assumed to be the "bad guy" but as the story unfolded his character became more and more complex.

Carl was a favored son, but lacked the courage to do anything heroic and has to live with a lot of shame for that.

Im recommending for fans of Vikings, Bernard Cornwell, and John Gwynne!

I enjoyed the authors prose and think he has a very strong voice. I struggled a bit with all the different characters, and was always relieved to come back to the main ones we know. But the new voices did help carry the story forward. Some who do better with multiple POV characters will have a great time with this one!!

[Alison Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really great debut novel. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Stephanie Soebbing · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood of the Son is a sweeping epic fantasy set in an Anglo-Saxon-like world, complete with Druids, a warrior King who has become a shadow of himself, and epic battles.

Featuring a large cast of characters, I was most drawn to the storylines of brothers Alfred and Carl. A founding child and a son set to inherit his father's land and titles, they are as close as any two brothers bound by blood. While loved equally, neither feels adequate to the role they believe they were born to play.

When giant solitary creatures known as Eoten, begin appearing in groups, attacking their lands, wearing rune-carved manacles that indicate blood magic may be rising again, the brothers' faith in their own abilities and the lives they thought they wanted for themselves is tested.

Filled with political intrigue as the earls fight to protect their people, seize power, and take revenge, the brothers find themselves at the center of a magical battle they didn't see coming, and they must come to terms with their own insecurities, or risk failure.

When I read the last line, I tossed the book down and cursed, knowing I'd have to wait for the sequel to find out what happens next.

Clive T. Wright has created a rich world that's alive in detail. I can picture the walks through the forest, the political maneuverings in the great hall, the drunken nights in caverns.

Where I faltered is a personal preference. I am primarily a romantasy reader, and am used to a smaller cast of characters to keep track of. If I were starting again, I'd do it with a notebook next to the book to keep a record of who is who, and how they relate to each other in the different geographical regions, tribes, religious structures, and political landscape. I had no trouble understanding how the main players' choices were moving the plot forward, and found an emotional connection with three of the more prominent characters. It's all the side characters that had me asking, "Who is this, and what is their place in this world again?"

But even as I tried to remember where I'd seen the character before when they crossed paths with someone new, I could tell Wright knew exactly where he was going, and I trusted he'd bring me on an enjoyable journey.

Additionally, as a fellow writer of battle scenes who is learning to sword fight for book research, I appreciated not only the attention to detail in the battles, but that Wright actually wrote realistic fight scenes, using weapons appropriate to the time and culture the fictional world is inspired by.

It was incredibly clear Wright did his research, and then made artistic choices to turn history into something dark and magical. I'm looking forward to seeing where he'll take me next in book two.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jason Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood of the Son is a singularly impressive debut novel by Clive T. Wright, set in a world heavily influenced by Anglo-Saxon history, mythology, theology and customs.

The primary protagonists, Carl and Alfred, are brothers motivated by honour, loyalty and duty.
Murderous raids by bandits and monstrous Eoten, followed by an assassination attempt on their lord, sees the brothers become embroiled in an insidious conspiracy that threatens their family, friends, homeland and lives.

Without divulging too much of the plot, what ensues is a captivating tale, incorporating ancient magic, dire adversaries, interesting, relatable characters and riveting, visceral action.
These elements are reinforced by the tangible vein of immediacy that runs throughout the novel, as events draw the reader towards the exhilarating conclusion.

Blood of the Son is original and excellently-written, pitched and paced.
Although apparent that Wright has extensively researched Anglo-Saxon culture, I was particularly impressed by the author’s ability to depict the milieu and develop characters succinctly, without resorting to excessive, overwrought exposition or dull, predictable tropes.
I also feel that Wright has an incredible ear for dialogue, both spoken and internal, which results in his characters never sounding pretentious or ridiculous.

In summation, Blood of the Son is an exceptionally enjoyable and satisfying novel on every level and a fine entry into the fantasy genre from an author whose future work I anticipate reading with pleasure.

I received a free advance copy of The Valnari Saga Book One: Blood of the Son by Clive T. Wright to review from BookSirens.com and I have composed this review voluntarily.

Jason Thompson 3rd July 2026

[Jade Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book from this talented Author. It was very gripping.
The characters and scene descriptions were written very well and in detail.
Filled with heroes, villians, magic, nature, gods, humour, love and treachery. I highly recommend reading it!

[Chlor - The Neverending Book Dragon · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Wright's prose is beautiful. Loved the writing style from Page 1, "In his veins, something stirred, old as oak, deep as roots. A whisper of trees, of gods long buried, of truths older that firelight and kin."

I had been following Clive Wright for a while and was very curious about his debut fantasy novel, Blood of the Son, Book 1 in the Valnari Saga. As soon as it was available, I purchased it and I was completely immersed from the get go!

This book was so refreshing, giving you the classic epic fantasy feel with a very unique tale of political intrigue, dark magic, family tensions, and a world facing ancient evil forces determined to destroy everything.

Loved the world building and character diversity. I enjoyed the detail set up of a world and characters beautifully weaved into the the plot with dynamic themes of caste system, prejudices, xenophobia, loyalty, power, and political intrigue.

The Eoten creatures were magnificent, the magic system very interesting, and the battle scenes well researched and enthralling.

The feelings and flaws of the characters are relatable. Two young brothers growing and making mistakes as they find their own path. Both are sent on different missions, and they take us on this adventure as their ideals, loyalty, and family are challenged by their pride and circumstances beyond their control.

Loved this debut and I look forward to continuing the Valnari Saga as soon as Book 2 is available!

[Mele]

Blood of the Son is an adventurous, magical bloodbath of the best kind. Every chapter held a twist or surprise I didn't see coming, and the ending left me wanting to read more.

This book is for anyone wanting a story about self-acceptance, forgiveness, a reluctant adventurer, brotherly bonds, family ties, revenge, and brilliant fight scenes. In a market flooded with romantic arcs, the focus on close family and the contradicting feelings within them was refreshing to read.

I was so happy to FEEL the forest in Wright's writing and characters. It was a constant pull, both on his characters and in the background, almost as if it were a character itself. It made me miss the forest I grew up in and the deeply entrenched magic I always felt from it as a kid. Wright's book brought that magic back, little by little, and then left me breathless in its final chapter.

It's obvious from the way the story progressed that Wright spent a lot of time studying history and getting the elements of it right within the story, and it was something I appreciated more than he'll ever know. Despite the violence of some scenes, I felt comfortable and secure in his writing style as it propelled me forward to the heart of the story.

Though there was some distracting head-hopping from time to time (the reason for my 4 stars), Alfred's story and the magic always pulled me back in. Big and small details in his world-building were intriguing and, coming from a book so entrenched in mythical history, was surprisingly fresh.

I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to read through the first few chapters of an earlier draft, and after reading the final book in its entirety, I can see how much work, dedication, care, love, and pride has gone into it! I want more!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, but I will also be buying the physical copy (and the upcoming books) to have and look fondly upon while perusing my shelves.

Thank you, Clive, for bringing back the magic 🥰