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The Seven Swords #3
City of Songs
ATHERIA-THE FABLED CITY OF SONGSTHE SHINING JEWEL OF THE THIRD SEAWHERE THE MASKED EXULTIA CASTE HOLD SWAY AND VIE TO OUTDO EACH OTHER IN THEIR PATRONAGE OF THE ARTS,SOMETIMES WITH DEADLY CONSEQUENCES...Guyime, wandering, dethroned King of the Northlands, is drawn to the Atheria by his quest for the Seven Swords, the demon cursed blades of legend. But to claim the next sword he must first solve a seemingly impossible murder—a puzzle that, once untangled, will unveil secrets so dark they could bring the City of Songs to utter ruin.
Continuing the epic tale of The Seven Swords, City of Songs is an action-packed, darkly magical mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of the Raven’s Shadow and Draconis Memoria trilogies.
Continuing the epic tale of The Seven Swords, City of Songs is an action-packed, darkly magical mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of the Raven’s Shadow and Draconis Memoria trilogies.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
130 people are currently reading
1086 people want to read
About the author
Anthony Ryan
88 books9,941 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 85 reviews
May 20, 2023
4.5
“ To seek truth you must first understand its nature.
For truth is not stone, it is water,
It flows and ebbs according to channell and tide,
It freezes into the illusory permanence of ice,
It is mouled into storms and waves that can shatter whole nations,
But always, as water remains water, truth remains truth. ”
¿Me está gustando mucho más de lo que esperaba? Absolutamente. Siento que la historia con cada libro que pasa va cogiendo más consistencia y le vas cogiendo más cariño a los personajes, cada uno en diferentes tonalidades de grises.
"In my experience, wealthy folk fear like any other, and bleed the same too”.
Tengo que admitir que el argumento de esta novela me ha podido, me ha encantado, sin embargo, me niego a ponerle las cinco estrellas porque siento que la historia a veces se queda corta. Pero, como he dicho repetidas veces, como novela corta es una maravilla.
“Are you capable of telling any story that doesn’t end in despair and death ? ”
Una vez me ponga al día con estas novelas, que no me queda nada, pienso leer otras obras del autor, porque si este señor escribe novelas cortas así de buenas quiero ver sus novelas originales.
“All stories end thus, my liege. Except mine. I just continue. ”
“ To seek truth you must first understand its nature.
For truth is not stone, it is water,
It flows and ebbs according to channell and tide,
It freezes into the illusory permanence of ice,
It is mouled into storms and waves that can shatter whole nations,
But always, as water remains water, truth remains truth. ”
¿Me está gustando mucho más de lo que esperaba? Absolutamente. Siento que la historia con cada libro que pasa va cogiendo más consistencia y le vas cogiendo más cariño a los personajes, cada uno en diferentes tonalidades de grises.
"In my experience, wealthy folk fear like any other, and bleed the same too”.
Tengo que admitir que el argumento de esta novela me ha podido, me ha encantado, sin embargo, me niego a ponerle las cinco estrellas porque siento que la historia a veces se queda corta. Pero, como he dicho repetidas veces, como novela corta es una maravilla.
“Are you capable of telling any story that doesn’t end in despair and death ? ”
Una vez me ponga al día con estas novelas, que no me queda nada, pienso leer otras obras del autor, porque si este señor escribe novelas cortas así de buenas quiero ver sus novelas originales.
“All stories end thus, my liege. Except mine. I just continue. ”
October 12, 2022
Check out my Booktube channel at: The Obsessive Bookseller
This installment was a little different than the last two. It focused more on the plights of a third party, still relevant to the overall advancing plot, but felt more tangent as a result.
I still really like the trajectory of the series and think it massively creative. Because the page count is so small, things have to progress more quickly, and I think that’s why some of the happenings in this book seems a bit too easy or convenient. But I’m happy to go along with it because of how much I’m enjoying the journey. I’ll say it again – it amazes me how expansive and rich the world building is in this series considering how short the books are. It’s as full and imagined as any full-length fantasy series I’ve read, the only drawback being we don’t get to explore it in quite the same depth.
Overall, another good installment, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await in the next book.
Thank you to my Patrons: Filipe, Dave, Frank, Sonja, Staci, Kat, and Katrin! <3
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Other books you might like:
This installment was a little different than the last two. It focused more on the plights of a third party, still relevant to the overall advancing plot, but felt more tangent as a result.
I still really like the trajectory of the series and think it massively creative. Because the page count is so small, things have to progress more quickly, and I think that’s why some of the happenings in this book seems a bit too easy or convenient. But I’m happy to go along with it because of how much I’m enjoying the journey. I’ll say it again – it amazes me how expansive and rich the world building is in this series considering how short the books are. It’s as full and imagined as any full-length fantasy series I’ve read, the only drawback being we don’t get to explore it in quite the same depth.
Overall, another good installment, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await in the next book.
Thank you to my Patrons: Filipe, Dave, Frank, Sonja, Staci, Kat, and Katrin! <3
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Other books you might like:
December 23, 2021
4.5 / 5 ✪
https://arefugefromlife.wordpress.com...
The third entry in the Seven Swords begins much as the one before it did. Fresh off the decimation of Carthula, Pilgrim (Guyime) and Seeker are fleeing the destruction of their wake while also traveling toward their hearts’ truest desire. In his case another of the seven demon blades, while in hers a daughter long lost. In this they have been joined by another pair: former slave Lexius, now wielder of another of the Seven Swords, inhabited by his wife—he seeks her freedom; and Mareth druid sellsword Lorweth, whose motives and secrets are entirely his own.
They travel to Atheria, the fabled City of Songs. The Shining Jewel of the Third Sea. Governed by a Council, the city is truly ruled by the Exultia Caste—the obscenely wealthy who wear masks to convey their godly status to the rest of the unwashed of the city. Here, Guyime hopes to find another of the demon blades, while Seeker hopes to find her daughter. Instead, they will find nothing but plots, lies, blood and chaos. For Ultrius Domiano—the very man the need to see—lies freshly slain, and it’s up to the Wanderers to find his killer.
Only then will they find the answers they seek.
The Seven Swords have been consistently entertaining, despite their short format. Three outstanding novellas, each telling a complete story while deferring to the next in the sequence to continue the overarching tale. As much as I’d like a full-length Seven Swords story, I honestly think it works perfectly in novella format. The obvious comparison is Murderbot; something great in short form that may or may not work as well in a longer one (Network Effect was good, but I’d say not nearly as good as any of the novellas).
As for the story of City of Songs—it’s a good one. Who doesn’t love a murder mystery? Especially one where the stakes are high. To get the answers they seek, Guyime and Seeker must solve the mystery, which is properly mysterious and immersive. After I finally figured out what was going on, one main mystery still remained. Well, two, I suppose. The why of it was an interesting point, but the main mystery was more than enough motivation to keep reading. A mystery that persisted up until the very end.
Very good tale. And it continues the overarching plot very nicely. I don’t really have any notes or criticisms. Just that while this is a contained adventure, knowledge of the first two books is really helpful to reading it. Luckily Subterranean Press has two hardbacks with your name on them (or ebooks, if you’d prefer). I’d definitely recommend this series, and hope it continues to deliver!
https://arefugefromlife.wordpress.com...
The third entry in the Seven Swords begins much as the one before it did. Fresh off the decimation of Carthula, Pilgrim (Guyime) and Seeker are fleeing the destruction of their wake while also traveling toward their hearts’ truest desire. In his case another of the seven demon blades, while in hers a daughter long lost. In this they have been joined by another pair: former slave Lexius, now wielder of another of the Seven Swords, inhabited by his wife—he seeks her freedom; and Mareth druid sellsword Lorweth, whose motives and secrets are entirely his own.
They travel to Atheria, the fabled City of Songs. The Shining Jewel of the Third Sea. Governed by a Council, the city is truly ruled by the Exultia Caste—the obscenely wealthy who wear masks to convey their godly status to the rest of the unwashed of the city. Here, Guyime hopes to find another of the demon blades, while Seeker hopes to find her daughter. Instead, they will find nothing but plots, lies, blood and chaos. For Ultrius Domiano—the very man the need to see—lies freshly slain, and it’s up to the Wanderers to find his killer.
Only then will they find the answers they seek.
The Seven Swords have been consistently entertaining, despite their short format. Three outstanding novellas, each telling a complete story while deferring to the next in the sequence to continue the overarching tale. As much as I’d like a full-length Seven Swords story, I honestly think it works perfectly in novella format. The obvious comparison is Murderbot; something great in short form that may or may not work as well in a longer one (Network Effect was good, but I’d say not nearly as good as any of the novellas).
As for the story of City of Songs—it’s a good one. Who doesn’t love a murder mystery? Especially one where the stakes are high. To get the answers they seek, Guyime and Seeker must solve the mystery, which is properly mysterious and immersive. After I finally figured out what was going on, one main mystery still remained. Well, two, I suppose. The why of it was an interesting point, but the main mystery was more than enough motivation to keep reading. A mystery that persisted up until the very end.
Very good tale. And it continues the overarching plot very nicely. I don’t really have any notes or criticisms. Just that while this is a contained adventure, knowledge of the first two books is really helpful to reading it. Luckily Subterranean Press has two hardbacks with your name on them (or ebooks, if you’d prefer). I’d definitely recommend this series, and hope it continues to deliver!
November 22, 2022
Enjoy reading Anthony Ryan once more. This series is a little different from most of his stories, but still Damn Ass Good!!!
April 26, 2025
This book continues on from the previous and we now find the group sailing towards their next destination. The characters are more familiar with each other and we get to know a bit more about each character’s personalities as the book moves forward.
Again it has a fast paced plot with a murder/mystery thrown in too. There’s a lot going on for a short story which I’m really enjoying. Of course the swords sarcasm is always a high point for me. The world building is once more very rich and imaginative as are the characters.
This has been another action filled adventure and mystery which I really enjoyed. I’m very much looking forward to the next.
Again it has a fast paced plot with a murder/mystery thrown in too. There’s a lot going on for a short story which I’m really enjoying. Of course the swords sarcasm is always a high point for me. The world building is once more very rich and imaginative as are the characters.
This has been another action filled adventure and mystery which I really enjoyed. I’m very much looking forward to the next.
November 26, 2025
5 Stars★★★★★ - The saga continues and this one is a stunner
For this and other book (and movie!) reviews, check out: https://medium.com/hooked-on-books/no...
What’s the story about: After leaving the wreckage of Carthula, the party of three finds themselves getting closer to Seeker’s daughter and another sword but must first solve a mystery that affects an entire city. This book is a murder mystery of intrigue, decadence, and bad intentions.
Truly, City of Songs is adventure fantasy and storytelling at its absolute best. With The Kraken’s Tooth and its sequel, I’m officially convinced that Anthony Ryan is as good a short story author as Andrzej Sapkowski with the Witcher stories. City of Songs was exactly what I want in a story regarding personal stakes, a wonderfully rich and realized world, and characters that are as uniquely broken as they are interestingly powerful. All within the structure of a plot that progresses appropriately and was thoroughly fascinating to finish. Personally, I think that if this series were to be rereleased as paperbacks or omnibuses, City of Songs would be a perfect end to the first book. I would definitely recommend reading this fantasy adventure especially since it is perfectly satisfying for being a novella. This saga is at its best in City of Songs and it’s also just getting started! I can’t wait to see where it goes!
For this and other book (and movie!) reviews, check out: https://medium.com/hooked-on-books/no...
What’s the story about: After leaving the wreckage of Carthula, the party of three finds themselves getting closer to Seeker’s daughter and another sword but must first solve a mystery that affects an entire city. This book is a murder mystery of intrigue, decadence, and bad intentions.
Truly, City of Songs is adventure fantasy and storytelling at its absolute best. With The Kraken’s Tooth and its sequel, I’m officially convinced that Anthony Ryan is as good a short story author as Andrzej Sapkowski with the Witcher stories. City of Songs was exactly what I want in a story regarding personal stakes, a wonderfully rich and realized world, and characters that are as uniquely broken as they are interestingly powerful. All within the structure of a plot that progresses appropriately and was thoroughly fascinating to finish. Personally, I think that if this series were to be rereleased as paperbacks or omnibuses, City of Songs would be a perfect end to the first book. I would definitely recommend reading this fantasy adventure especially since it is perfectly satisfying for being a novella. This saga is at its best in City of Songs and it’s also just getting started! I can’t wait to see where it goes!
October 5, 2021
City of Songs is now our third adventure in the Seven Swords novella series and it is my favorite installment so far. Anthony Ryan manages to pack a whole murder mystery element into City of Songs and it was so so much fun. I mean to truly keep me on my toes and guessing for 160 pages, bravo. I think one thing that has been really refreshing for this series, (and I think I am just now noticing it) every story has been a different structure. Whether it be a heist, mystery, war, you get the picture. With Ryan telling each story in this novella series in a different way is what's going to give this series an edge. It will always be something new.
As for my one issue I have been having, I do think these novellas could be a tad longer. I will survive though. Like I said in my last review, this sandbox is really quite entertaining. Anthony Ryan has a clear vision for what he wants to accomplish with this novella series and I am having such a blast.
As for my one issue I have been having, I do think these novellas could be a tad longer. I will survive though. Like I said in my last review, this sandbox is really quite entertaining. Anthony Ryan has a clear vision for what he wants to accomplish with this novella series and I am having such a blast.
April 19, 2024
Y'all are crazy!
NO, I am not obsessed with a demon-cursed sword, and "said demon" within that sword.
OF COURSE, that "said demon" is not creeping its way onto my 2024 Book Boo list. Psh! Blasphemy! Heresy! Lakorath? Really y'all?
LMFAO, y'all are so crazy. HAHA!
.
NO, I am not obsessed with a demon-cursed sword, and "said demon" within that sword.
OF COURSE, that "said demon" is not creeping its way onto my 2024 Book Boo list. Psh! Blasphemy! Heresy! Lakorath? Really y'all?
LMFAO, y'all are so crazy. HAHA!
.
December 30, 2022
Follow me on Twitter: Twitter.com/wolfmantula
For more reviews, go to www.wolfmantula.com/book-reviews
MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.25/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
Each one of these novellas improve more than the previous, and Ryan continues to tell a fascinating story of searching for the Seven Swords. What I really appreciate is that to keep each book fresh and a little different, he has changed up the story telling style. In book 1 it was more about the mystery of who the characters were, in book 2 he introduced the dungeon-crawl style, and this time weaved in a murder/mystery type of tale, while the overarching quest based story stays intact.
“We are all creations,” Guyime returned. “One way or another. And life is still life, regardless of the vessel that carries it.”
The action wasn’t as prevalent, but what action it lacked, it made up for with Ryan’s exception storytelling ability. The action that it did have was great, although I did feel that the ending was a bit anticlimactic compared to the lead up it had. It was still good, just didn’t go out with a bang.
The banter between Guyime and Lakorath continues to be great, and the banter in general with all the characters. I was happy that Seeker got a little more growth as well as her part of the story of searching for her daughter which is starting to play an even bigger role in the story. I have a feeling Seeker’s story will end up playing a big part later on
For more reviews, go to www.wolfmantula.com/book-reviews
MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.25/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
Each one of these novellas improve more than the previous, and Ryan continues to tell a fascinating story of searching for the Seven Swords. What I really appreciate is that to keep each book fresh and a little different, he has changed up the story telling style. In book 1 it was more about the mystery of who the characters were, in book 2 he introduced the dungeon-crawl style, and this time weaved in a murder/mystery type of tale, while the overarching quest based story stays intact.
“We are all creations,” Guyime returned. “One way or another. And life is still life, regardless of the vessel that carries it.”
The action wasn’t as prevalent, but what action it lacked, it made up for with Ryan’s exception storytelling ability. The action that it did have was great, although I did feel that the ending was a bit anticlimactic compared to the lead up it had. It was still good, just didn’t go out with a bang.
The banter between Guyime and Lakorath continues to be great, and the banter in general with all the characters. I was happy that Seeker got a little more growth as well as her part of the story of searching for her daughter which is starting to play an even bigger role in the story. I have a feeling Seeker’s story will end up playing a big part later on
September 20, 2021
Full Review at The Quill to Live: https://thequilltolive.com/2021/09/20...
Another year, another slamming sword and sorcery novella from Anthony Ryan. Welcome back to the newest installment of “novellas that are killing it that you have never heard of,” starring City of Songs. This is the third installment of The Seven Swords, a novella series published by the independent company Subterranean Press who are famous for their highly sought after and expensive illustrated editions of famous genre books. SP was kind enough to send me a digital ARC of this story so that I could tell you to go buy it; because just like its predecessors, it is a banger.
Each of these novellas exists as a vignette where our eclectic adventuring party arrives at a new magical city/location and must hunt down a legendary sword that is causing terror. The party is led by our rascally protagonist Pilgrim, a powerful warrior with a lot of baggage, including an enchanted sword. Our romp location this time is a city of unparalleled wealth, aristocracy, and art. Upon arriving to search for the next sword, our group finds themselves pulled into a murder mystery with many twists and turns. Can the party figure out whodunit and make off with the next sword in the set?
City of Songs has been my favorite in this series so far. It feels very distinctly different from the previous two installments, while also keeping extremely on theme. All of these stories have been very dark, surrounded by madness and horror. What I loved about City of Songs is that it starts somewhat lighthearted and quickly starts to descend into a pit of madness. This series is starting to remind me of the famous Hyperion by Dan Simmons - a series of somewhat disconnected stories that begin to form a web linking disparate threads together over time.
What was particularly cool about City of Songs is I got to see Ryan flex a number of lesser-used muscles when it came to his writing topics and focus. Ryan is a proven versatile writer, but previously I would have said that his greatest strength was always his action. But, in City of Sings his prose and mystery skills steal the show. The artistic pieces on display in the city defy imagination and leap off the page into the mind. His use of limited information and clever foreshadowing result in a very satisfying mystery that sticks around the perfect amount of time. Finally, there is some fantastic character growth which is not an easy task when writing a novella series.
Although I have nothing but praise for the content of City of Songs, I do want to observe that it feels slightly strange that these stories are novellas. This is the second serial novella series I have gotten extremely invested in (with the first being Murderbot), and there comes a point where the price point starts to hurt and I wish the stories were collected into a novel. I certainly don’t think any of these authors are trying to nickel and dime the reader, and there are definite advantages to splitting up the story into pieces (especially Seven Swords, the novellas have rich art depicting pivotal scenes). I just wish the series was slightly more accessible so that it could get into the hands of more readers because this series deserves to be read.
Rating: City of Songs - 10/10
-Andrew
Another year, another slamming sword and sorcery novella from Anthony Ryan. Welcome back to the newest installment of “novellas that are killing it that you have never heard of,” starring City of Songs. This is the third installment of The Seven Swords, a novella series published by the independent company Subterranean Press who are famous for their highly sought after and expensive illustrated editions of famous genre books. SP was kind enough to send me a digital ARC of this story so that I could tell you to go buy it; because just like its predecessors, it is a banger.
Each of these novellas exists as a vignette where our eclectic adventuring party arrives at a new magical city/location and must hunt down a legendary sword that is causing terror. The party is led by our rascally protagonist Pilgrim, a powerful warrior with a lot of baggage, including an enchanted sword. Our romp location this time is a city of unparalleled wealth, aristocracy, and art. Upon arriving to search for the next sword, our group finds themselves pulled into a murder mystery with many twists and turns. Can the party figure out whodunit and make off with the next sword in the set?
City of Songs has been my favorite in this series so far. It feels very distinctly different from the previous two installments, while also keeping extremely on theme. All of these stories have been very dark, surrounded by madness and horror. What I loved about City of Songs is that it starts somewhat lighthearted and quickly starts to descend into a pit of madness. This series is starting to remind me of the famous Hyperion by Dan Simmons - a series of somewhat disconnected stories that begin to form a web linking disparate threads together over time.
What was particularly cool about City of Songs is I got to see Ryan flex a number of lesser-used muscles when it came to his writing topics and focus. Ryan is a proven versatile writer, but previously I would have said that his greatest strength was always his action. But, in City of Sings his prose and mystery skills steal the show. The artistic pieces on display in the city defy imagination and leap off the page into the mind. His use of limited information and clever foreshadowing result in a very satisfying mystery that sticks around the perfect amount of time. Finally, there is some fantastic character growth which is not an easy task when writing a novella series.
Although I have nothing but praise for the content of City of Songs, I do want to observe that it feels slightly strange that these stories are novellas. This is the second serial novella series I have gotten extremely invested in (with the first being Murderbot), and there comes a point where the price point starts to hurt and I wish the stories were collected into a novel. I certainly don’t think any of these authors are trying to nickel and dime the reader, and there are definite advantages to splitting up the story into pieces (especially Seven Swords, the novellas have rich art depicting pivotal scenes). I just wish the series was slightly more accessible so that it could get into the hands of more readers because this series deserves to be read.
Rating: City of Songs - 10/10
-Andrew
May 13, 2022
Stars: 4 out of 5
This book is the best in the series so far. I think it's because we got the exposition and character background out of the way in the first two books, so the author is free to just tell his story. And it is a compelling story, no doubt about that.
I think what I like the most about this series the fascinating and complex world our characters inhabit. It feels complex and interesting. There are hints at deeper events and history there that the reader has yet to discover. It feels real. It feels like something I wouldn't mind exploring further. I think this is the reason I keep coming back to these books. The characters are okay, but I don't feel a deep connection to them. But they places they travel to are unique and worth exploring.
On a different note, this is the third city our characters destroyed so far... that's an alarming trend, I would say. Yes, this time they weren't directly responsible for the mass murder and mayhem, but they were still there and maybe served as a catalyst for the events. I'm a little afraid that by the time they finally collect all seven swords, there will be nothing left of the world to save.
I admit that I like the companions Pilgrim is assembling around himself, though I would still love Seeker to have a more layered role than the hunter with arrows that kills bad things. Heck, even the new member to join the team at the end of this book is more complex than her. I think that does a disservice to the story, because we are supposed to care about her search for her daughter, but we simply... don't. I just hope that the author will give her a chance to shine in the next book.
PS: I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is the best in the series so far. I think it's because we got the exposition and character background out of the way in the first two books, so the author is free to just tell his story. And it is a compelling story, no doubt about that.
I think what I like the most about this series the fascinating and complex world our characters inhabit. It feels complex and interesting. There are hints at deeper events and history there that the reader has yet to discover. It feels real. It feels like something I wouldn't mind exploring further. I think this is the reason I keep coming back to these books. The characters are okay, but I don't feel a deep connection to them. But they places they travel to are unique and worth exploring.
On a different note, this is the third city our characters destroyed so far... that's an alarming trend, I would say. Yes, this time they weren't directly responsible for the mass murder and mayhem, but they were still there and maybe served as a catalyst for the events. I'm a little afraid that by the time they finally collect all seven swords, there will be nothing left of the world to save.
I admit that I like the companions Pilgrim is assembling around himself, though I would still love Seeker to have a more layered role than the hunter with arrows that kills bad things. Heck, even the new member to join the team at the end of this book is more complex than her. I think that does a disservice to the story, because we are supposed to care about her search for her daughter, but we simply... don't. I just hope that the author will give her a chance to shine in the next book.
PS: I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2022
Ova novela prati dosadašnju formulu i samim tim isporučuje ni više ni manje od prethodnih. Istini za volju, prva u ovom niz od očito sedam ostavlja najbolji utisak jer i predstavlja najveću novinu, ako se to može reći za nešto ovoliko retro, dok druga i treća ponavljaju obrazac postavljen u prvoj. No, svejedno, ovo je zabavno štivo i odličan primer kako se piše mač i magija (suprotno od epske fantastike), sa sve deendeolikom kvest linijom.
4*
4*
December 18, 2022
4 Stars!
January 17, 2023
I’ve been looking forward to publishing this one, but I’m a little disappointed. I loved the investigation and the close bond between the characters. Because I think the swords bring the characters closer together. I’m also learning more and more about Guyime’s life and I’m starting to understand him more and more. I don't find him an antihero at all. In fact, he has a human-feeling side. Last but not least, there were plenty of surprises in this one as well. However, sometimes I get a little bored of this. Unfortunately there wasn’t much adventure and action in it, I found the city boring as well. In fact, excitement is in the last few chapters.
April 24, 2022
Incredible! The series that Anthony Ryan is developing is simply too good to be believed. After a fantastic quest in the first book and the maze in the second one, the third entry deals with murder— that too in a locked-room format!
To say that I am waiting for the fourth book in the series is an understatement. To say that I am practically salivating for the remaining books would be more accurate.
Highly recommended.
To say that I am waiting for the fourth book in the series is an understatement. To say that I am practically salivating for the remaining books would be more accurate.
Highly recommended.
January 28, 2024
4.5
The best in the series so far, a bit of a murder mystery with his twists and turns.
The best in the series so far, a bit of a murder mystery with his twists and turns.
July 8, 2021
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
This third installment of Anthony Ryan's The Seven Swords novella series continues on from where the second one left off - our protagonist is following the map obtained from the Cartographer to find the Seeker daughter, Ekiri - and of course the next Sword. Our group has grown by one with the addition of Lexius, the former slave with perfect memory, who also carries his own demon sword housing the soul of his wife, the sorceress Calandra.As with previous entries in this series, what follows is a combination of exploration and discovery though disguised as a whodunnit. As they reach the wondrous city of Atheria, where Ekiri is known to have been bought as a slave, our group is entangled into a murder mystery with the Exultia, the ruling caste of the city. Through the following investigation we learn of the city, the Exultia themselves and more of the world itself and the history of our characters.
I really love this series and this book in particular. It feels like reading a fantasy novel of old (sans the misogyny and -isms). The story is simple and well told - just following a single man on his quest. When we arrive at new places we get world building but only to the extent required for the story. To me, this keeps up the wonder of discovery where every new location can be unique and new without really spending time thinking of whether this type of world could function. We are given enough information to make it feel real, but not enough to start poking holes in it. While I do enjoy the epic fantasy novels with huge political and military setups thought out, it is refreshing to leave all that aside and just read a story happening in fantastic locations.
I'm a big fan of Anthony Ryan's writing. He's one of the few writers where I find myself not skimming at all as he does not waste words. There's a certain gravitas in the way he writes that makes me take the book slower than most of what I read - even when action is high.
Our main character, Guyime, gets a bit more background and I like that the other characters are still very much unknown.
Highly recommended for all fantasy readers. For Anthony Ryan fans; his books are best in the beginning, up until we get to the inevitable point where massive armies start clashing against together. This series is all about that first awesome part, and here's hoping that we never get to the end part. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
October 21, 2021
I'm loving this series. Each of these short novels is tightly plotted, exciting, and also advances the overall story arc. In this one Guyime and Seeker travel to Atheria in their quest to find the seven swords as well as Seeker's daughter. They are drawn into a murder investigation, where of course, everything is not as it seems.
The original characters are great, and the new ones add interesting aspects to the group. I highly recommend this to fantasy lovers. And I commend the author for telling such compelling stories in such a short number of pages - that is unusual in fantasy!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this. I can't wait for the next one.
The original characters are great, and the new ones add interesting aspects to the group. I highly recommend this to fantasy lovers. And I commend the author for telling such compelling stories in such a short number of pages - that is unusual in fantasy!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this. I can't wait for the next one.
November 4, 2021
This is the third installment of the Seven Swords series of shorter stories. It continues to be a great adventure that satisfys despite its length. I hope that Ryan continues to write these adventures, they are like delicious, fantasy candy.
September 18, 2021
This Review and many more can be found on my Blog Into The Heartwyld
Thank you Netgalley and Subterranean Press for providing me with an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
City of Songs is book three in the Seven Swords series and with each installment I keep getting more and more interested in the direction that it is going in. This story is full of so many fantastical elements, and I mean that in regards to the whole series. Talking swords, druids, krakens, and now this installment brought even more fantastical elements into play.
City of Songs picks up right after the last book and its all action in the beginning. A boat ride gone awry and everyone trying to survive. It took me a few minutes to understand what was going on but once I did, I was hooked, the action immediately sucks you in and keeps a hold of you. After that the story goes right into the next adventure of gathering the next sword, and it doesn't slow down. This is actually my favorite aspect of this series, with it being short there is no time to over glamorize the world so the story has to continue at a relatively quick pace, but Ryan still manages to give you just enough that you can envision what each location is like. He found that sweet spot that allows you to feel like your getting a full story without all the length but also not feel like your being cheated by the short length.
Ryan does not skip out on bringing the fantasy into this series and I absolutely love it. This installment has a mystery murder that Guyime is contracted to solve so he can acquire the whereabouts of another sword. This allows us to get more of Lakorath involved because he takes part in "helping" solve the mystery because he has an insight that the others don't have. Of course this doesn't stop him from trying to convince Guyime to kill everyone as they go along. The murder mystery revolves around a few very rich people in this city and the way Ryan wrote their complete disconnect to the real world was so believable. These people are so ridiculously rich that they don't understand the world outside of their own bubble and quite literally keep themselves apart from it all, it was fascinating honestly. Each one was portrayed differently from the next so they each stood out apart from one another.
Now just because this is a murder mystery that doesn't mean the beginning is the only bit of action you get, there are 3 heavy actions scenes in this story and each one was engaging and exciting, and were written into the story right when they were needed, they each last long enough to get you hyped up and keep you entertained.
We also got more backstory on Guyime which is great, each book we get a little more but this one really dove in and gave us quite a lot and the way it was presented was quite unique, and it so far as lived up to the vague mentions of bloody and wild. Also the revelations at the end have me very excited for the next installment because it leads me to believe we are about to really learn about Guyime's past.
The part that threw me though off was in regards to the title City of Songs, I was expecting a city that was heavily influenced by music and thus the theme of the story resonating that idea but instead it focused on an artist who did painting and sculpting, and while Ryan did explain why the city was referred to as the City of Songs, it wasn't enough to make me fully connect the title with what was going on in the story. I'm not hating on what we got because what we got was very interesting, I mean magic paintings, statues coming to life, murder and so much more. I was even blown away by the truth that was revealed at the end, it was way out of what I was thinking it was going to be. It was all so exciting and loved it, I was just expecting music to be the focus..
Lakorath the talking sword, who is my favorite character, is getting more and more moments of talking and his personality is hilarious. I just love watching him annoy Guyime because he won't answer questions that he knows the answer to because he wants Guyime to figure it out. But I also loved getting the chance to see him throw in his opinion or his intelligence when it was needed. I also loved that Ryan managed to connect a character from the first book back to this installment.
Seeker does fall to wayside in this story but Ryan still managed to make her connect to the overall story and made sure to continue connecting her daughter to the overall story as well and I am very interested in where that portion of the story will go.
Guyime's little group is slowly growing and I'm interested to see how Ryan is going to pull this off, if in each book he is going to gain another companion. His group is already at 4 (maybe 5 if you count Lorweth I'm not really sure if he is a permanent part of the party or not) I'm concerned with how Ryan will pull off a large cast if it keeps growing because these are shorter stories, and sometimes that can be difficult. So I'm both equally looking forward to potentiality getting more party members but also not wanting more because I worry about execution.
City of Songs is another fast paced and lively addition to the Seven Swords series with so much fantasy throw into it, but not enough to make you hate it. Ryan's imagination is pretty solid and I can't wait to get my hands on the next one.
"You spilled an ocean of blood to claim a kingdom you never wanted, all to destroy something that couldn't die."
Thank you Netgalley and Subterranean Press for providing me with an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
City of Songs is book three in the Seven Swords series and with each installment I keep getting more and more interested in the direction that it is going in. This story is full of so many fantastical elements, and I mean that in regards to the whole series. Talking swords, druids, krakens, and now this installment brought even more fantastical elements into play.
City of Songs picks up right after the last book and its all action in the beginning. A boat ride gone awry and everyone trying to survive. It took me a few minutes to understand what was going on but once I did, I was hooked, the action immediately sucks you in and keeps a hold of you. After that the story goes right into the next adventure of gathering the next sword, and it doesn't slow down. This is actually my favorite aspect of this series, with it being short there is no time to over glamorize the world so the story has to continue at a relatively quick pace, but Ryan still manages to give you just enough that you can envision what each location is like. He found that sweet spot that allows you to feel like your getting a full story without all the length but also not feel like your being cheated by the short length.
Ryan does not skip out on bringing the fantasy into this series and I absolutely love it. This installment has a mystery murder that Guyime is contracted to solve so he can acquire the whereabouts of another sword. This allows us to get more of Lakorath involved because he takes part in "helping" solve the mystery because he has an insight that the others don't have. Of course this doesn't stop him from trying to convince Guyime to kill everyone as they go along. The murder mystery revolves around a few very rich people in this city and the way Ryan wrote their complete disconnect to the real world was so believable. These people are so ridiculously rich that they don't understand the world outside of their own bubble and quite literally keep themselves apart from it all, it was fascinating honestly. Each one was portrayed differently from the next so they each stood out apart from one another.
Now just because this is a murder mystery that doesn't mean the beginning is the only bit of action you get, there are 3 heavy actions scenes in this story and each one was engaging and exciting, and were written into the story right when they were needed, they each last long enough to get you hyped up and keep you entertained.
We also got more backstory on Guyime which is great, each book we get a little more but this one really dove in and gave us quite a lot and the way it was presented was quite unique, and it so far as lived up to the vague mentions of bloody and wild. Also the revelations at the end have me very excited for the next installment because it leads me to believe we are about to really learn about Guyime's past.
The part that threw me though off was in regards to the title City of Songs, I was expecting a city that was heavily influenced by music and thus the theme of the story resonating that idea but instead it focused on an artist who did painting and sculpting, and while Ryan did explain why the city was referred to as the City of Songs, it wasn't enough to make me fully connect the title with what was going on in the story. I'm not hating on what we got because what we got was very interesting, I mean magic paintings, statues coming to life, murder and so much more. I was even blown away by the truth that was revealed at the end, it was way out of what I was thinking it was going to be. It was all so exciting and loved it, I was just expecting music to be the focus..
"I should like you to know, my liege, Lakorath informed him, speaking with acid percision, that you are the greatest fool who ever wielded me."
Lakorath the talking sword, who is my favorite character, is getting more and more moments of talking and his personality is hilarious. I just love watching him annoy Guyime because he won't answer questions that he knows the answer to because he wants Guyime to figure it out. But I also loved getting the chance to see him throw in his opinion or his intelligence when it was needed. I also loved that Ryan managed to connect a character from the first book back to this installment.
Seeker does fall to wayside in this story but Ryan still managed to make her connect to the overall story and made sure to continue connecting her daughter to the overall story as well and I am very interested in where that portion of the story will go.
Guyime's little group is slowly growing and I'm interested to see how Ryan is going to pull this off, if in each book he is going to gain another companion. His group is already at 4 (maybe 5 if you count Lorweth I'm not really sure if he is a permanent part of the party or not) I'm concerned with how Ryan will pull off a large cast if it keeps growing because these are shorter stories, and sometimes that can be difficult. So I'm both equally looking forward to potentiality getting more party members but also not wanting more because I worry about execution.
City of Songs is another fast paced and lively addition to the Seven Swords series with so much fantasy throw into it, but not enough to make you hate it. Ryan's imagination is pretty solid and I can't wait to get my hands on the next one.
December 5, 2022
The third book in the Seven Swords novella series. You learn a bit more about the main protagonist Guyime who is face with a painting of his most bloody and decisive battle when he was king thousands of years ago. Thanks to a demon possessed sword that has granted him an immortal life he seeks to find the other six swords. In book 3 two more members join in the quest. The group go to the City of Song to see a renowned Art Collector, who just happens to be newly murdered. What follows is part mystery, part backstory. It all works well in this novella. On to the 4th installment in the series To Blackfyre Keep.
January 10, 2023
I'll keep this short.
This was a fun, quick read. The search for the cursed blades is on and our heroes could finally see the devastation one of them can cause. Not that we didn't know since our hero himself carries one.
This book involved a murder mystery and less violence up until the final few pages. And then it was a cluster fuck of gore and blood.
This was a fun, quick read. The search for the cursed blades is on and our heroes could finally see the devastation one of them can cause. Not that we didn't know since our hero himself carries one.
This book involved a murder mystery and less violence up until the final few pages. And then it was a cluster fuck of gore and blood.
July 5, 2024
Wat een erg leuk boek. Zelfs zonder de voorgaande boeken gelezen te hebben, kwam ik prima mee. Erg origineel.
October 16, 2024
Holy shit, I am in love with this series. How has no-one turned this into a movie or animated series yet?
April 23, 2025
improved over book 2 The Kraken's Tooth, adding a different angle with new swords and their skills, and having being a different genre (mystery whodunit) which i found refreshing.
7/10
7/10
November 4, 2025
I enjoyed City of Songs, though I have to admit I was a bit hampered by not fully remembering what happened in the previous book. I totally forgot about Lorweth, which was a bit confusing.
It is the main character Guyime, that I really like. The world, the quest, the swords, the demons, all good but the character really ties it all together.
It is the main character Guyime, that I really like. The world, the quest, the swords, the demons, all good but the character really ties it all together.
December 16, 2021
This series is getting better with every installment. Can't wait for book four!
December 6, 2021
Great addition to this story, they always feel short but are very well done to grab you. Wish the next parts were out faster.
November 27, 2021
Another accursed blade
The books are short and easily completed. There is a good mix of mystery and combat. The characters are compelling as well, including the demon haunted swords. Looking forward to the next one already.
The books are short and easily completed. There is a good mix of mystery and combat. The characters are compelling as well, including the demon haunted swords. Looking forward to the next one already.
July 16, 2021
Seeing how this is book three in what appears to be a series in progress, I had to go out and read the first two books prior to picking this one up. Definitely worth it! "City of Songs" continues the story of traveling Guyime, who is on his own personal mission to collect the "mythical" seven demon-cursed blades. As legend has it, combining all seven swords will cause the destruction of them, thus releasing Guyime, who is in possession of one of these blades. In each book, another blade is found, and a companion seems to join our main character on his quest. Lead by a 'magical' map created especially for his quest, it leads them in search of the swords.
I found each of these books to be fairly quick reads. There isn't much of world-building, but we discover more of the land as the group travels. Character background is added throughout the storyline, just enough detail to quench either the reader's desire for more personal info, or more for a facet of the story about to take place. The pace is smooth, and moves along fairly rapidly. Large amounts of traveling distances are shortened by lack of content occurring, which is nice. I look forward to reading the additional books in the series if they get written (possibly 4 more) and would definitely recommend for readers YA and up.
Thanks to NetGalley.com and the publisher for the ARC to read! #NetGalley #CityofSongs
I found each of these books to be fairly quick reads. There isn't much of world-building, but we discover more of the land as the group travels. Character background is added throughout the storyline, just enough detail to quench either the reader's desire for more personal info, or more for a facet of the story about to take place. The pace is smooth, and moves along fairly rapidly. Large amounts of traveling distances are shortened by lack of content occurring, which is nice. I look forward to reading the additional books in the series if they get written (possibly 4 more) and would definitely recommend for readers YA and up.
Thanks to NetGalley.com and the publisher for the ARC to read! #NetGalley #CityofSongs
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