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Grimnir Chronicles #3
Ichor of Dodlend: Grimnir Chronicles 3
Humanity can no longer hide from the attention of gods and primordials. Their only option is to grow as strong as they can or be wiped from their realm. The pathfinders decide to venture through the next portal, selecting a region known as Dodlend, where millions died over centuries of terrible war. As they dive deeper into the area, they discover forces far beyond their own power, all while the amulet around Lorelai’s neck burns increasingly fierce against her skin causing her to wonder if it was more a blessing or a curse.In Ichor of Dodlend, a new land awaits, one with a dark history of unfathomable death so potent that it may as well be touched by Kel herself. Perhaps the realm of death is even more closely related to this place than the team recognizes.
Follow the pathfinder team as they make their way to the next trial.
Follow the pathfinder team as they make their way to the next trial.
- GenresFantasy
415 pages, Paperback
Published October 13, 2026
About the author
Brady Hunsaker
16 books503 followersBrady was born in a stronghold at the base of the Rocky Mountains. He currently resides there with his wife, their two daughters, and a few domesticated house lions of a rare breed. He set out with the goal to write fantasy that anybody could read, with characters who face real life struggles. Everyone deserves to feel like there is hope.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 28, 2026
If you want to get back into good ol’ DND style fantasy, this is the series for you!
I truly love the story Brady is bringing to life with the Grimnir Chronicles. The characters he’s created, the world he’s crafted and the heart he’s poured into it.
A group of Grimnirs, best known as the Pathfinders, embark on an epic journey to find the third trial in a land ruled by monsters they’ve only read about in stories.
They must work together, and independently, in order to survive and emerge victorious.
Bjorn, Hallik, Elowyn, Loralai, Ortso and Toki have become very dear and beloved characters. I cannot wait to read the next instalment!
GO READ THIS BOOK!! (But start with book one LOL)
I truly love the story Brady is bringing to life with the Grimnir Chronicles. The characters he’s created, the world he’s crafted and the heart he’s poured into it.
A group of Grimnirs, best known as the Pathfinders, embark on an epic journey to find the third trial in a land ruled by monsters they’ve only read about in stories.
They must work together, and independently, in order to survive and emerge victorious.
Bjorn, Hallik, Elowyn, Loralai, Ortso and Toki have become very dear and beloved characters. I cannot wait to read the next instalment!
GO READ THIS BOOK!! (But start with book one LOL)
October 25, 2026
A Review for Brady Hunsaker
Brady Hunsaker has accomplished something that very few authors ever manage to do: he doesn't just tell a story, he creates an experience.
As someone currently reading the Grimnir series and now deep into Book 3, I felt compelled to stop before even reaching the end and recognize the extraordinary talent behind these books. It's rare to find an author who can make every aspect of a story feel alive, but what stands out most to me is Hunsaker's ability to write action.
His fight scenes are nothing short of masterful. Many authors can describe a battle, but Brady Hunsaker makes you live through it. A confrontation that might last only a couple of minutes in the story feels like a complete journey filled with strategy, emotion, skill, tension, and consequence. Every movement has purpose. Every strike matters. Every victory and setback carries weight. The result is not simply exciting action but some of the most immersive combat writing I have ever read.
What truly separates his work from everything else I've read is the emotional impact. There have been moments in this series that affected me so strongly that I immediately went back and reread them, not because I missed something, but because I wanted to experience those emotions again. It's the same feeling people get when revisiting a favorite scene from a movie or a pivotal moment from a television series. I've honestly never had that happen with a book before.
Equally impressive is what isn't in these novels. In a genre where many authors rely on spice or explicit content to maintain interest, Hunsaker proves that exceptional storytelling, compelling characters, meaningful relationships, and breathtaking action are more than enough. The books captivate entirely on the strength of their writing.
The Grimnir series has reminded me why I fell in love with fantasy in the first place. The world, the characters, the stakes, and especially the unforgettable battle sequences combine to create something truly special. Even before finishing the series, I can confidently say that Brady Hunsaker has earned a place among my favorite authors.
If you've never experienced his work, you're missing out on a master storyteller. And if you're already a fan, you know exactly what I mean.
Brady Hunsaker has accomplished something that very few authors ever manage to do: he doesn't just tell a story, he creates an experience.
As someone currently reading the Grimnir series and now deep into Book 3, I felt compelled to stop before even reaching the end and recognize the extraordinary talent behind these books. It's rare to find an author who can make every aspect of a story feel alive, but what stands out most to me is Hunsaker's ability to write action.
His fight scenes are nothing short of masterful. Many authors can describe a battle, but Brady Hunsaker makes you live through it. A confrontation that might last only a couple of minutes in the story feels like a complete journey filled with strategy, emotion, skill, tension, and consequence. Every movement has purpose. Every strike matters. Every victory and setback carries weight. The result is not simply exciting action but some of the most immersive combat writing I have ever read.
What truly separates his work from everything else I've read is the emotional impact. There have been moments in this series that affected me so strongly that I immediately went back and reread them, not because I missed something, but because I wanted to experience those emotions again. It's the same feeling people get when revisiting a favorite scene from a movie or a pivotal moment from a television series. I've honestly never had that happen with a book before.
Equally impressive is what isn't in these novels. In a genre where many authors rely on spice or explicit content to maintain interest, Hunsaker proves that exceptional storytelling, compelling characters, meaningful relationships, and breathtaking action are more than enough. The books captivate entirely on the strength of their writing.
The Grimnir series has reminded me why I fell in love with fantasy in the first place. The world, the characters, the stakes, and especially the unforgettable battle sequences combine to create something truly special. Even before finishing the series, I can confidently say that Brady Hunsaker has earned a place among my favorite authors.
If you've never experienced his work, you're missing out on a master storyteller. And if you're already a fan, you know exactly what I mean.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After the meeting with the monster in the water, the humans now know they need to be more powerful. Halik, Elowyn, Bjorn and Lorelei, now known as the Pathfinders, are forging the way in looking not only for more places to settle but more trials to complete as well. When they pick Dodlend, things look a little too easy at first. When they help free humans from vampiric creatures who are their Elite, they start another chain of events that takes them through dangerous new lands with even more dangerous new monsters.
We get to see wjat Lorelei is really made of in this book. She has a lot to deal with that none of the other 4 are able to help her with. She has had this amulet for a while now and she is starting to figure out what it really wants from her. She is learning more about her powers, just in time for a new trial. Hallik is, well Hallik. He's the good natured, easy going "brute" of the group, but his disposition is definitely tested in this book. He also ends up with a lot to deal with and hopefully he can keep his usual temperament after this book. Elowyn ends up finding a new "friend" herself in Toki. I knew Toki was going to end up capturing hearts as soon as I read about him. Even Ortso comes to like him, albeit begrudgingly. Also, did anyone else picture HeiHei?!
This book was absolutely packed with action. There was very little down time for the Pathfinders and for Lind back in Avskild as well. The Pathfinders are constantly on the go and fighting one battle or another while Lind is constantly searching for a better way to protect his people. He is learning to enchant weapons and streamlining that process. There were once again many new monsters and an interesting take on vampires as well. The world building was phenomenal once again as well. The author really creates a vivid new world every time the characters go through another portal.
We get to see wjat Lorelei is really made of in this book. She has a lot to deal with that none of the other 4 are able to help her with. She has had this amulet for a while now and she is starting to figure out what it really wants from her. She is learning more about her powers, just in time for a new trial. Hallik is, well Hallik. He's the good natured, easy going "brute" of the group, but his disposition is definitely tested in this book. He also ends up with a lot to deal with and hopefully he can keep his usual temperament after this book. Elowyn ends up finding a new "friend" herself in Toki. I knew Toki was going to end up capturing hearts as soon as I read about him. Even Ortso comes to like him, albeit begrudgingly. Also, did anyone else picture HeiHei?!
This book was absolutely packed with action. There was very little down time for the Pathfinders and for Lind back in Avskild as well. The Pathfinders are constantly on the go and fighting one battle or another while Lind is constantly searching for a better way to protect his people. He is learning to enchant weapons and streamlining that process. There were once again many new monsters and an interesting take on vampires as well. The world building was phenomenal once again as well. The author really creates a vivid new world every time the characters go through another portal.
Review of advance copy
I have been following the Grimnir Chronicles since the first book and this one might be my favourite yet. The pathfinders are heading into Dodlend this time, a region where millions died over centuries of war, and you can feel that history pressing down on every page. It is a place soaked in death, and the book does not shy away from what that means.
The stakes have grown a lot since book one. Humanity cannot hide anymore, and the only choice is to get stronger or be wiped out. I like that Hunsaker does not give the team an easy path. They run into forces well beyond their power level and you genuinely worry about how they are going to get through it. The tension never lets up.
Lorelai is the one I keep coming back to. The amulet around her neck is burning hotter and hotter, and she is starting to question whether it was ever a blessing at all or something closer to a curse. That internal struggle is the emotional core of this book for me. It is not just about surviving the next trial. It is about what she is becoming in the process.
The world building is where Hunsaker shines. Dodlend feels ancient and haunted in a way that is different from the earlier regions. The connection to Kel and the realm of death is hinted at in ways that made me want to go back and reread the earlier books for clues. There is a sense that everything is building toward something much bigger and I cannot wait to see where it goes.
If I had any complaint, it is that the book ends on a note that left me desperate for book four with no release date in sight. That is not really a complaint about the book though. It is a complaint about having to wait.
If you are already into this series, you do not need me to tell you to read this. If you are new, start with Depths of Vanalf and work your way here. It is worth it. This is epic fantasy that actually earns its scale.
The stakes have grown a lot since book one. Humanity cannot hide anymore, and the only choice is to get stronger or be wiped out. I like that Hunsaker does not give the team an easy path. They run into forces well beyond their power level and you genuinely worry about how they are going to get through it. The tension never lets up.
Lorelai is the one I keep coming back to. The amulet around her neck is burning hotter and hotter, and she is starting to question whether it was ever a blessing at all or something closer to a curse. That internal struggle is the emotional core of this book for me. It is not just about surviving the next trial. It is about what she is becoming in the process.
The world building is where Hunsaker shines. Dodlend feels ancient and haunted in a way that is different from the earlier regions. The connection to Kel and the realm of death is hinted at in ways that made me want to go back and reread the earlier books for clues. There is a sense that everything is building toward something much bigger and I cannot wait to see where it goes.
If I had any complaint, it is that the book ends on a note that left me desperate for book four with no release date in sight. That is not really a complaint about the book though. It is a complaint about having to wait.
If you are already into this series, you do not need me to tell you to read this. If you are new, start with Depths of Vanalf and work your way here. It is worth it. This is epic fantasy that actually earns its scale.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a review of the ARC copy of the book, supplied by Brady Hunsaker directly, in exchange for an honest review
I have to admit, I struggled a bit at first with the book, not through any issue with the writing or the story, it's just that I am not a fan of Vampires, however Brady may have changed my mind.
The book finds our heroes, The Pathfinders looking for new areas to explore, and they settle on Dodlend, which inevitably leads to adventure. Dodlend itself reminded me of The Dead Marshes in Middle Earth, the feeling of bodies & bones everywhere, very dark and dismal.
All starts well for our hero's but of course it can't last, it is interesting in this story though that one of the party gets separated, and we follow two distinct storylines for a good portion of the book, I liked this as we got to explore one character more than we have done up to now
The Vampires make for a more intelligent foe, with an interesting overall plan, also Brady comes up with a very good way of making some of them much more powerful than the rest
I am reserving judgment about the new animal companion, as I am worried they may turn into some sort of deus ex machina, but am prepared to see how it goes
As for the story as I say it started slowly, but I have to admit from about the mid-point of the book it was non-stop action, I actually read the second half of the book in one evening I just had to see how it all panned out
I am totally hooked on this series now, and cannot wait for book 4 to come out, I know Brady has written it already
I have to admit, I struggled a bit at first with the book, not through any issue with the writing or the story, it's just that I am not a fan of Vampires, however Brady may have changed my mind.
The book finds our heroes, The Pathfinders looking for new areas to explore, and they settle on Dodlend, which inevitably leads to adventure. Dodlend itself reminded me of The Dead Marshes in Middle Earth, the feeling of bodies & bones everywhere, very dark and dismal.
All starts well for our hero's but of course it can't last, it is interesting in this story though that one of the party gets separated, and we follow two distinct storylines for a good portion of the book, I liked this as we got to explore one character more than we have done up to now
The Vampires make for a more intelligent foe, with an interesting overall plan, also Brady comes up with a very good way of making some of them much more powerful than the rest
I am reserving judgment about the new animal companion, as I am worried they may turn into some sort of deus ex machina, but am prepared to see how it goes
As for the story as I say it started slowly, but I have to admit from about the mid-point of the book it was non-stop action, I actually read the second half of the book in one evening I just had to see how it all panned out
I am totally hooked on this series now, and cannot wait for book 4 to come out, I know Brady has written it already
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance copy of this book for the purpose of providing a fair and honest review.
I truly believe Ichor of Dodlend is the best book in The Grimnir Chronicles so far. This book kept me interested from beginning to end, and I don’t think there was ever a point where the story became boring or dragged.
The main villain is much more structured and intelligent than the villains in the previous two books, and I really appreciated that. Even though you know the Pathfinders have a certain amount of plot armor, the book continually puts them in situations where you find yourself thinking, “How are they going to survive this one?” That sense of danger kept the battles exciting.
I also appreciated the political aspect that King Lind brings to the story. He is featured much more prominently in this book than in the second, and I enjoyed getting further into his head and seeing the struggles that come with being king. He is dealing with the fallout of the wall falling around Avskild, trying to advance the Grimnirs through the two discovered trails, and attempting to unite the humans of Mennesvarld. Seeing the weight of those responsibilities added another layer to the story that I really enjoyed.
And finally, we get back to the core of this series: the Pathfinders fighting their way through amazing battles against some truly crazy monsters. It remains true to the D&D-inspired style that makes this series so much fun.
5/5 stars!
I truly believe Ichor of Dodlend is the best book in The Grimnir Chronicles so far. This book kept me interested from beginning to end, and I don’t think there was ever a point where the story became boring or dragged.
The main villain is much more structured and intelligent than the villains in the previous two books, and I really appreciated that. Even though you know the Pathfinders have a certain amount of plot armor, the book continually puts them in situations where you find yourself thinking, “How are they going to survive this one?” That sense of danger kept the battles exciting.
I also appreciated the political aspect that King Lind brings to the story. He is featured much more prominently in this book than in the second, and I enjoyed getting further into his head and seeing the struggles that come with being king. He is dealing with the fallout of the wall falling around Avskild, trying to advance the Grimnirs through the two discovered trails, and attempting to unite the humans of Mennesvarld. Seeing the weight of those responsibilities added another layer to the story that I really enjoyed.
And finally, we get back to the core of this series: the Pathfinders fighting their way through amazing battles against some truly crazy monsters. It remains true to the D&D-inspired style that makes this series so much fun.
5/5 stars!
September 14, 2026
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from the author and in return will be giving my honest feedback about this upcoming work.
I will begin by saying I’m a huge fan of this series, the characters, and the world that has been created by Brady. So going into this read I knew I was up for some awesome D&D type action and character development with some pretty cool creatures along the way. Well, my expectations were met 100% and I couldn’t be happier! The progression these characters are making through this expanded world is so much fun to see and how their powers are expanded upon is so cool to see.
With this new location, you really got the sense of an old Transylvania/Dracula type vibe and it having this really dark and heavy feeling. I loved how the team went into this new land and just decided “why not try and get rid of all these vampires?!”. I am not a huge vampire fan but these were done very well and Brady did an amazing job in explaining how the various types of vampires came to exist.
There is a new fuzzy animal friend that joins along the way and I can’t wait to see how they interweave themselves more into this group! Overall I really enjoyed the story and would recommend this book to everyone who is a fan of the series!
4⭐️
I will begin by saying I’m a huge fan of this series, the characters, and the world that has been created by Brady. So going into this read I knew I was up for some awesome D&D type action and character development with some pretty cool creatures along the way. Well, my expectations were met 100% and I couldn’t be happier! The progression these characters are making through this expanded world is so much fun to see and how their powers are expanded upon is so cool to see.
With this new location, you really got the sense of an old Transylvania/Dracula type vibe and it having this really dark and heavy feeling. I loved how the team went into this new land and just decided “why not try and get rid of all these vampires?!”. I am not a huge vampire fan but these were done very well and Brady did an amazing job in explaining how the various types of vampires came to exist.
There is a new fuzzy animal friend that joins along the way and I can’t wait to see how they interweave themselves more into this group! Overall I really enjoyed the story and would recommend this book to everyone who is a fan of the series!
4⭐️
October 25, 2026
Just finished Ichor of Dodlend, book three of the Grimnir Chronicles by Brady Hunsaker!
Some chapters moved a little slowly for me, but once the story picked up toward the end, it REALLY took off.
Lorelai surprised me the most—honestly, I think she may be the strongest one now. I loved watching each of the Pathfinders develop new powers and quickly learn how to use them, while still facing enemies far beyond anything they’ve dealt with before.
Dodlend felt darker and more dangerous than the previous worlds, and the stakes for the entire group were much higher. This really felt like a major level-up for the series!
⭐️ 4.75/5
I really hope there’s a book four because I’m not ready for this journey to be over!
Some chapters moved a little slowly for me, but once the story picked up toward the end, it REALLY took off.
Lorelai surprised me the most—honestly, I think she may be the strongest one now. I loved watching each of the Pathfinders develop new powers and quickly learn how to use them, while still facing enemies far beyond anything they’ve dealt with before.
Dodlend felt darker and more dangerous than the previous worlds, and the stakes for the entire group were much higher. This really felt like a major level-up for the series!
⭐️ 4.75/5
I really hope there’s a book four because I’m not ready for this journey to be over!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 rounded up.
Vampires? Check. Intense battles? Check. Uneasy feelings and intensity, can’t wait to read the next page? Check. No-Spice Fantasy? Check!
Like those? Read this book!
I loved this book. Brady’s writing is getting better and better as this series continues (and I LOVED the first two). From the get go I couldn’t put it down. I loved the battles and the cliff hangers. I loved watching the characters progress, not only through the story but also as people.
Loved Lorelai’s arc especially. Lots of inner battles and working through desires for herself and for humanity.
The only thing I didn’t like? I have to wait for the next one! Definitely would recommend.
Vampires? Check. Intense battles? Check. Uneasy feelings and intensity, can’t wait to read the next page? Check. No-Spice Fantasy? Check!
Like those? Read this book!
I loved this book. Brady’s writing is getting better and better as this series continues (and I LOVED the first two). From the get go I couldn’t put it down. I loved the battles and the cliff hangers. I loved watching the characters progress, not only through the story but also as people.
Loved Lorelai’s arc especially. Lots of inner battles and working through desires for herself and for humanity.
The only thing I didn’t like? I have to wait for the next one! Definitely would recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! Just finished my arc of Ichor of Dodlend by Brady Hunsaker. Brace yourselves for bloody action scenes and weird birds... Its the third book in this series. So if you like Dungeons and Dragons start with Depths of Vanalf. I enjoyed the battles and growth that happens. Some parts are a bit slower than others but it builds on information that will be needed later on. #dungeonsanddragons #ichorofdodlend #fantasy #nospicefantasy
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another Absolutely action packed quest novel, very fitting in theme with the previous books in the series, with continued character magic level ups, quirky new side characters and a dash of political tension.
Im so curious to see what happens to these characters next and to see how the side characters develop and entwine into the story through book 4
Im so curious to see what happens to these characters next and to see how the side characters develop and entwine into the story through book 4
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was very excited to read this 3rd book in the series and it did not disappoint! I loved seeing how the characters continued to grow, and how their powers change with them. I was very interested in Lorelai's POV in this book, when in the previous books I thought she was just OK. I look forward to the adventures the pathfinders have in the next book!
October 29, 2026
This book was a lot of fun! I enjoyed the first two and this might be even better. The author did a good job on this one, being authentic to the genre, but also adding some fun variety to the character relationships and interactions that made it feel new and different. Also, this one was fun to read at Halloween time.
October 26, 2026
Eeeeeeee!
Height after right, encounters with GODS. Loralei scares me man. Is she going to turn on her friends. Again applause, this was not a boring book in the very least. Just action and more action! I can't wait to read the last one!
Height after right, encounters with GODS. Loralei scares me man. Is she going to turn on her friends. Again applause, this was not a boring book in the very least. Just action and more action! I can't wait to read the last one!
October 21, 2026
The vampires were hella exciting and the way the team dealt with them was *chef's kiss*. I will be eagerly awaiting more Grimnir Chronicles now.
September 7, 2026
Book 3 picks up right where book 2 left off. I was so excited to be reunited with Hallik, Bjorn, Elowyn, & Ortso as the journey for new trials and monsters to kill. This book definitely cranked up the difficulty on monsters and figuring out who the real enemy is. I love the multi POV in this series because it lets us get glimpses if everything else happening not just what are “pathfinders” are up to. Also Toki might be one if my favorite characters now and I’m looking forward to see what role he’ll play on next installments.
August 20, 2026
I was given a chance to read this one early. I'll post a review when I'm done!
Follow up - I'm still working on this one. It's hard for me to actually read rather than do an audiobook because of time, but I am loving this one. The team is coming together more, and the friendly teasing is great! I love Ortso! I still owe a full review once I"m done, but this placeholder is to say that I'm loving this series and you should go check it out. This one released today, October 13th!
Follow up - I'm still working on this one. It's hard for me to actually read rather than do an audiobook because of time, but I am loving this one. The team is coming together more, and the friendly teasing is great! I love Ortso! I still owe a full review once I"m done, but this placeholder is to say that I'm loving this series and you should go check it out. This one released today, October 13th!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews