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The Hellborn King Saga #2
The Wrathbringer
LIVE FOR VENGEANCE
LIVE FOR HATE
LIVE FOR WRATH
With a year of stunning victories behind him, Damien Dreadfire seeks to drive a stake through the heart of Betanthia. With his ranks burgeoning, he pushes deeper into enemy territory. But with each new conquest, his alliance fractures even further, until it nearly shatters into pieces. Damien must walk the line between appeasing old enemies, and keeping his allies content, or watch his well-laid plans come to ruin.
Meanwhile, Prince Gareth Bethard’s struggles continue. With a dangerous conspiracy growing bolder by the day, and barbarians marauding at will, the future king finds himself in utter peril. With the help of trusted friends and allies, he begins mounting an offensive against enemies from without, and from within. But after suffering an unspeakable tragedy, Gareth must find the courage to fight on, or watch as Betanthia is consumed by fire.
LIVE FOR HATE
LIVE FOR WRATH
With a year of stunning victories behind him, Damien Dreadfire seeks to drive a stake through the heart of Betanthia. With his ranks burgeoning, he pushes deeper into enemy territory. But with each new conquest, his alliance fractures even further, until it nearly shatters into pieces. Damien must walk the line between appeasing old enemies, and keeping his allies content, or watch his well-laid plans come to ruin.
Meanwhile, Prince Gareth Bethard’s struggles continue. With a dangerous conspiracy growing bolder by the day, and barbarians marauding at will, the future king finds himself in utter peril. With the help of trusted friends and allies, he begins mounting an offensive against enemies from without, and from within. But after suffering an unspeakable tragedy, Gareth must find the courage to fight on, or watch as Betanthia is consumed by fire.
653 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2022
4 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Christopher G. Brenning
4 books82 followersChristopher G. Brenning is an author based out of Racine, Wisconsin. He is the author of the epic fantasy series, "The Hellborn King Saga". Chris has always had a passion for entertaining, and started writing short stories as far back as elementary school. In 2003, he became more focused on writing and made it into a hobby. In 2019, he decided to write his first novel. He is also passionate about music, movies, history, and travel.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 22, 2023
This is how you do character growth. I didn’t want this book to end. I took my time reading this book. Just immersing myself in the battles, characters, and darkness. This book is better in every way to Hellborn king. Christopher G Brenning has leveled up I cannot wait to see what he does next.
Further review to come.
Further review to come.
August 23, 2022
https://undertheradarsffbooks.com/202...
I recieved an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review. After reading the final page of the Hellborn King last year, I have been waiting on pins a needles for the sequel. That brutal ending left me in shaking for several days with no resolution in sight. I was floored when the ARC made its way into my inbox and let me tell you something, THIS IS HOW YOU WRITE A SEQUEL!!! There was not a dull moment nor a chapter I didn’t enjoy. The story is just as grim as the debut with many more shocks than I thought possible. You will not want to miss this sequel! This will be a spoiler free review but I will be touching upon events from book 1.
Einarr has left the battle front as a commander next to Damien and returned to his home village for another calling. Still haunted by the deeds of his past, the gods have other plans for him. Einarr will undergo a transformation of the mind and soul as he sets on a path only the gods know of. Titan is troubled by the failure he has endured and turns to a life of hiding and thievery. It is not long until he captured and convicted to be put to death, but his skills will be too important to just turn away. Titan is still a brute but I came to love his pride with every page I read.
Lucetta is still in the company of the woman in black leading her on a mission no one can expect. Lucetta will travel down a dark path I did nojt see coming. Finally we have Madelyn and her story just ripped my heart out. Captured and tortured (worse than that I’m afraid) as she has been turned into a shell of herself. Her freedom is bargained for and she is returned to her home forces. She wishes that she did die in the cage she was left. But Madelyn is the Eveldanyr and her destiny has only just begun.
There are so many other characters to touch on but I would be rambling on for several long hours. While The Hellborn King was mostly about the war and blood, Wrathbringer takes the worldbuilding and charcter arcs to the next stage. We still don’t know the entire picture but the characters are all moving into the desired places. If you are worried about a sophomore slump, I am please to say that The Wrathbringer exceeds the previous novel tenfold. The author will take his time for certain POV’s an then drop a huge boulder on your head when you least expect it. The writing is as smooth as book 1 with more depth to the words and a big amount of foreshadowing, or at least I hope to find out.
This is one of the best sequels I have ever read and will easily be in my top ten books of 2022. Not all readers will enjoy Grimdark fantasy but the character development and emotional pain will stay with you for many days. I can’t say enough about this book and all I can say is, when is the sequl coming out!!!!
Cheers!
I recieved an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review. After reading the final page of the Hellborn King last year, I have been waiting on pins a needles for the sequel. That brutal ending left me in shaking for several days with no resolution in sight. I was floored when the ARC made its way into my inbox and let me tell you something, THIS IS HOW YOU WRITE A SEQUEL!!! There was not a dull moment nor a chapter I didn’t enjoy. The story is just as grim as the debut with many more shocks than I thought possible. You will not want to miss this sequel! This will be a spoiler free review but I will be touching upon events from book 1.
Einarr has left the battle front as a commander next to Damien and returned to his home village for another calling. Still haunted by the deeds of his past, the gods have other plans for him. Einarr will undergo a transformation of the mind and soul as he sets on a path only the gods know of. Titan is troubled by the failure he has endured and turns to a life of hiding and thievery. It is not long until he captured and convicted to be put to death, but his skills will be too important to just turn away. Titan is still a brute but I came to love his pride with every page I read.
Lucetta is still in the company of the woman in black leading her on a mission no one can expect. Lucetta will travel down a dark path I did nojt see coming. Finally we have Madelyn and her story just ripped my heart out. Captured and tortured (worse than that I’m afraid) as she has been turned into a shell of herself. Her freedom is bargained for and she is returned to her home forces. She wishes that she did die in the cage she was left. But Madelyn is the Eveldanyr and her destiny has only just begun.
There are so many other characters to touch on but I would be rambling on for several long hours. While The Hellborn King was mostly about the war and blood, Wrathbringer takes the worldbuilding and charcter arcs to the next stage. We still don’t know the entire picture but the characters are all moving into the desired places. If you are worried about a sophomore slump, I am please to say that The Wrathbringer exceeds the previous novel tenfold. The author will take his time for certain POV’s an then drop a huge boulder on your head when you least expect it. The writing is as smooth as book 1 with more depth to the words and a big amount of foreshadowing, or at least I hope to find out.
This is one of the best sequels I have ever read and will easily be in my top ten books of 2022. Not all readers will enjoy Grimdark fantasy but the character development and emotional pain will stay with you for many days. I can’t say enough about this book and all I can say is, when is the sequl coming out!!!!
Cheers!
October 11, 2022
“Panic is simply the failure of belief…. If you truly believe in your cause, and you believe you can make it home, you’ll find courage where you once thought there was none.” Many characters, good and bad, need their courage in this book.
I have so many notes I wrote down about this story. As much as I loved the first book, The Hellborn King, I also equally enjoyed this second book. There is absolutely NO second-book syndrome, that gets talked about with this one.
We are left wondering what will happen to Madelyn at the end of the first book, and I thought about her a lot until I read this story to see her story.
I will say that all of the characters have amazing growth. Although I can understand Lucetta’s motives, I still find her a despicable person especially after what she decided to do in Lucetta IV. I don’t see her having a redemptive arc.
Other characters I love to hate are Sylvia, Damien, and Zander. I wonder what will happen with these folks in the next book. The woman in black is still a mystery. I’m not sure what you make of her.
But amidst all the sadness and chaos, there are Gareth, Madelyn, Titan, Edmund, Conrak, Charlotte, and Einarr. The blue-eyed vision that Madelyn sees is an interesting apparition and what it means for her. Each character is distinct and recognizable. There are some surprising changes like with Conrak.
So many characters were heading in different directions by the end, so that I wonder how will this come together! Especially for Einarr because he is the lonesome voice within the northmen.
We learn about the true history of Betanthia and a group committed to preserve it. How will this revelation impact the war?
There was so much sadness and struggle that it was a relief to have a few happy moments near the end. But then that got destroyed!
There are some John Gwynne vibes for the amazing worldbuilding and multi-character developments. Not as many, but still terrific. I can recreate this world in my head without a problem.
This is the book you didn’t know you needed to read. Pick this up shortly after you read The Hellborn King. You won’t be disappointed!
It’s a smash hit for me!
I have so many notes I wrote down about this story. As much as I loved the first book, The Hellborn King, I also equally enjoyed this second book. There is absolutely NO second-book syndrome, that gets talked about with this one.
We are left wondering what will happen to Madelyn at the end of the first book, and I thought about her a lot until I read this story to see her story.
I will say that all of the characters have amazing growth. Although I can understand Lucetta’s motives, I still find her a despicable person especially after what she decided to do in Lucetta IV. I don’t see her having a redemptive arc.
Other characters I love to hate are Sylvia, Damien, and Zander. I wonder what will happen with these folks in the next book. The woman in black is still a mystery. I’m not sure what you make of her.
But amidst all the sadness and chaos, there are Gareth, Madelyn, Titan, Edmund, Conrak, Charlotte, and Einarr. The blue-eyed vision that Madelyn sees is an interesting apparition and what it means for her. Each character is distinct and recognizable. There are some surprising changes like with Conrak.
So many characters were heading in different directions by the end, so that I wonder how will this come together! Especially for Einarr because he is the lonesome voice within the northmen.
We learn about the true history of Betanthia and a group committed to preserve it. How will this revelation impact the war?
There was so much sadness and struggle that it was a relief to have a few happy moments near the end. But then that got destroyed!
There are some John Gwynne vibes for the amazing worldbuilding and multi-character developments. Not as many, but still terrific. I can recreate this world in my head without a problem.
This is the book you didn’t know you needed to read. Pick this up shortly after you read The Hellborn King. You won’t be disappointed!
It’s a smash hit for me!
December 1, 2022
I need book 3 asap.. this series is simply phenomenal to me... the world-building and character development are top notch and even after reading nearly 700 pages i could not get enough. "Retribution was coming and its name was Titan Bradshaw" i cannot recommend this series enough. War, drama, heartbreak, political intrigue, sibling rivalry, and super natural elements....this series literally has it all....do yourself a favor and pick up this series
November 13, 2022
The Wrathbringer by Christopher G. Brenning is book two in the Hellborn King series. The first book, The Hellborn King, was a bit of a struggle for me. I’m pleased to say that The Wrathbringer was anything but—Brenning’s writing has elevated in this book. Because this book is the second in a series, I will not be outlining any major plot points or mentioning any characters by name.
The Wrathbringer is a gritty novel with some surprising twists and turns. The characters and world are built upon, and new POVs are introduced (in my opinion some of the best parts of the novel were these new POVs). Admittedly, this novel was slower than I expected it to be. With the ending of The Hellborn King, I expected things to escalate quickly, and that didn’t happen. At least, not in the way I thought. Instead, we watch as both sides of the war regroup and plan their next moves. And there is one deliciously unexpected death which I really enjoyed.
It’s difficult to talk much about the characters/plot without giving spoilers, so I won’t. I will mention that this novel makes use of a lot of dreams/visions, which is something that’s never really clicked with me—one reason being because during one particularly compelling vision, we find out that what’s happening isn’t actually happening, which left me rather disappointed—I REALLY wanted that to happen. On a positive note, if you’re somebody who also doesn’t like dreams/visions, don’t let this detract you from reading this novel—every dream/vision was appreciably short.
While the plot was slower than I was expecting, everything read at a fast pace. The shorter chapters really helped this book, I think, as it was much easier to “just read one more”. Aside from the aforementioned death, the most compelling part of this novel is the ending, and the epilogue seems to open the world up even more so. I’m very curious about where this book is heading.
Compared to the first book, I think I enjoyed every character’s POV in this book far more, except for one who felt really lost in this book. Their main journey was having visions and wandering around searching for somebody… and that was it. It feels like their role in the next book will be much expanded. Otherwise, I think every other POV was intriguing in their differences. Nobody really beats the royal Betanthian family, for me, though. I just really enjoy the political storyline there, and I think that’s really where Brenning’s talent shines.
This is a solid entry in the Hellborn King series, and I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes from here!
Rating: 4/5
The Wrathbringer is a gritty novel with some surprising twists and turns. The characters and world are built upon, and new POVs are introduced (in my opinion some of the best parts of the novel were these new POVs). Admittedly, this novel was slower than I expected it to be. With the ending of The Hellborn King, I expected things to escalate quickly, and that didn’t happen. At least, not in the way I thought. Instead, we watch as both sides of the war regroup and plan their next moves. And there is one deliciously unexpected death which I really enjoyed.
It’s difficult to talk much about the characters/plot without giving spoilers, so I won’t. I will mention that this novel makes use of a lot of dreams/visions, which is something that’s never really clicked with me—one reason being because during one particularly compelling vision, we find out that what’s happening isn’t actually happening, which left me rather disappointed—I REALLY wanted that to happen. On a positive note, if you’re somebody who also doesn’t like dreams/visions, don’t let this detract you from reading this novel—every dream/vision was appreciably short.
While the plot was slower than I was expecting, everything read at a fast pace. The shorter chapters really helped this book, I think, as it was much easier to “just read one more”. Aside from the aforementioned death, the most compelling part of this novel is the ending, and the epilogue seems to open the world up even more so. I’m very curious about where this book is heading.
Compared to the first book, I think I enjoyed every character’s POV in this book far more, except for one who felt really lost in this book. Their main journey was having visions and wandering around searching for somebody… and that was it. It feels like their role in the next book will be much expanded. Otherwise, I think every other POV was intriguing in their differences. Nobody really beats the royal Betanthian family, for me, though. I just really enjoy the political storyline there, and I think that’s really where Brenning’s talent shines.
This is a solid entry in the Hellborn King series, and I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes from here!
Rating: 4/5
October 3, 2022
Great sequel!
A land torn apart. Opposing armies held together by fragile allegiances. Plagued by conspiracies, inner demons & dark apparitions. The grimness of war is upon them. Superb sequel! So many great character arcs. Epic build up.
A land torn apart. Opposing armies held together by fragile allegiances. Plagued by conspiracies, inner demons & dark apparitions. The grimness of war is upon them. Superb sequel! So many great character arcs. Epic build up.
May 4, 2025
This series does not know the word "lull".
It grabs you by the scruff of the neck and drags you through Caldakas.
By the end of this book all you want and need is to breath.
All of the visceral, bloody action that was good in Book 1, take on a different turn in this book. The violence happens on a different level, laying bare the darkness in the hearts of men, but the darkness that sees not the light of day, but the one that eats away at one's soul.
It's a book that delves deep into the wounds the warrior bear, into the wounds of the soul and the heart.
Mother and daughter provide striking resemblances but contrasting fates. And their dynamics was a highlight of the book.
In a sense, this is a book that feels that'll serve as hinge between two massive bookends.
There are some revelations and the roles of the Gods start to be felt a little more, but where their allegiances may lie at the end is still unknown.
The Wrathbringer ends leaving everything hanging in the end, there's a palpable air of wanton violence.
Perhaps my only criticism of this book is that it focuses too much on what is happening within the Bethanthian Empire and we're left with small scraps of the Northmen Alliance.
The Queen of Scorn [Book 3] has all the markings that it'll be a storm of violence and blood.
4.6⭐️
It grabs you by the scruff of the neck and drags you through Caldakas.
By the end of this book all you want and need is to breath.
All of the visceral, bloody action that was good in Book 1, take on a different turn in this book. The violence happens on a different level, laying bare the darkness in the hearts of men, but the darkness that sees not the light of day, but the one that eats away at one's soul.
It's a book that delves deep into the wounds the warrior bear, into the wounds of the soul and the heart.
Mother and daughter provide striking resemblances but contrasting fates. And their dynamics was a highlight of the book.
In a sense, this is a book that feels that'll serve as hinge between two massive bookends.
There are some revelations and the roles of the Gods start to be felt a little more, but where their allegiances may lie at the end is still unknown.
The Wrathbringer ends leaving everything hanging in the end, there's a palpable air of wanton violence.
Perhaps my only criticism of this book is that it focuses too much on what is happening within the Bethanthian Empire and we're left with small scraps of the Northmen Alliance.
The Queen of Scorn [Book 3] has all the markings that it'll be a storm of violence and blood.
4.6⭐️
October 23, 2022
If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, Joe Abercrombie, or Brian Lee Durfee you will love this. The characters are all very well written, and there is plenty of mystery and action to keep you engaged. There will be a book 3, as this does not wrap up the series.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
October 24, 2022
4.5 stars.
September 6, 2022
Picking up from the devastating events of the first book, Wrathbringer takes the reader back to the looking collision of the fractured Bethard Royal family, rulers of Bethanthia, and the horde of northern tribesmen led by brutal warlord Damian Dreadfire.
Both sides of the conflict are mirrored excellently as the Bethard family (Prince Gareth, Princess Lucetta, and Queen Charlotte) each struggle with inner turmoils and demons pulling them apart and even against each other. Gareth gets his life together only to find he is years past where he needs to be in order to be an effective ruler and now has to take on the invading horde as well as a cloak-and-dagger style coup brewing under his nose.
At the same time, Damian’s forces, United only by his forceful will and a United hatred for Bethanthia, are fraying and unraveling as well.
Brenning takes the grimdark genre and wields it like a rapier, deftly cutting here and there with occasional slashes that hit with emotional gut punches.
Yet through it all there is a connective tissue of true friendship and hope that keeps characters pushing themselves and pushing each other on when they might otherwise give up. That hope keeps the reader invested and caring about what happens to the characters.
Highly recommend both this book and it’s predecessor
Both sides of the conflict are mirrored excellently as the Bethard family (Prince Gareth, Princess Lucetta, and Queen Charlotte) each struggle with inner turmoils and demons pulling them apart and even against each other. Gareth gets his life together only to find he is years past where he needs to be in order to be an effective ruler and now has to take on the invading horde as well as a cloak-and-dagger style coup brewing under his nose.
At the same time, Damian’s forces, United only by his forceful will and a United hatred for Bethanthia, are fraying and unraveling as well.
Brenning takes the grimdark genre and wields it like a rapier, deftly cutting here and there with occasional slashes that hit with emotional gut punches.
Yet through it all there is a connective tissue of true friendship and hope that keeps characters pushing themselves and pushing each other on when they might otherwise give up. That hope keeps the reader invested and caring about what happens to the characters.
Highly recommend both this book and it’s predecessor
July 8, 2025
Wrathbringer, the second book in Christopher Brenning’s The Hellborn King saga, builds on the gritty, character-driven foundation of its predecessor with a compelling mix of political intrigue, brutal warfare, and moral complexity. Brenning continues to excel at crafting a dark medieval world where no one is safe, and choices carry heavy consequences.
The strength of Wrathbringer lies in its layered characters. Prince Gareth’s journey deepens with greater internal conflict, while newer perspectives add depth to the sprawling narrative. Brenning’s prose remains lean and cinematic, effectively balancing introspection with action.
That said, the pacing occasionally suffers from its ambition. Some subplots meander or feel underdeveloped, and anyone unfamiliar with the first book may struggle to keep up with the dense cast and lore. However, fans of grimdark fantasy will find much to enjoy here especially those who appreciate morally gray heroes and high-stakes drama.
Wrathbringer is a solid continuation that raises the stakes and deepens the world, even if it stumbles slightly under its own weight. A must-read for those invested in the series and a strong entry in modern indie fantasy.
The strength of Wrathbringer lies in its layered characters. Prince Gareth’s journey deepens with greater internal conflict, while newer perspectives add depth to the sprawling narrative. Brenning’s prose remains lean and cinematic, effectively balancing introspection with action.
That said, the pacing occasionally suffers from its ambition. Some subplots meander or feel underdeveloped, and anyone unfamiliar with the first book may struggle to keep up with the dense cast and lore. However, fans of grimdark fantasy will find much to enjoy here especially those who appreciate morally gray heroes and high-stakes drama.
Wrathbringer is a solid continuation that raises the stakes and deepens the world, even if it stumbles slightly under its own weight. A must-read for those invested in the series and a strong entry in modern indie fantasy.
November 20, 2022
The Wrathbringer continues the story of a kingdom on the brink of upheaval. The fighting tribes of the North have struck a convincing move to threaten Betanthian rule of the lands. The protagonists who we were introduced to us in the Hellborn King are split all over the world, some broken, some stirred and some with renewed vigour for their cause.
It is a book that continues to lay bare all that the world offers in terms of possibilities. The lore, especially around the mystical and the prophesied, is turned up to 11 in this entry in the series. Your mind will be spinning as you think of the impact that certain events will have both on the short term and what they can mean for the world as a whole.
Brenning really hits his stride as he juggles the things we can see, with those that we cannot.
The writing style is easy to read. You are constantly propelled through the story as you chase the next crumb of character development or surprising turn of events. Of particular interest was the exploration of the unsteady alliance of Northern tribes. We get some new point of views to explore to aid this. A mixture of noble, the ambitious and the insane are explored. I normally find ‘evil’ characters a little on the predictable side of storytelling but those types of characters in this novel are delicious to get into the mind of. I’m a bit worried about the effect this book may be having on my sanity…
The Wrathbringer elevated a series that I was enjoying to one that I am desparate to continue going forward. It built on the strong historical military elements and introduced a complex world, full of grey archetypes and characters teetering on the brink of madness and greatness. Highly recommended.
It is a book that continues to lay bare all that the world offers in terms of possibilities. The lore, especially around the mystical and the prophesied, is turned up to 11 in this entry in the series. Your mind will be spinning as you think of the impact that certain events will have both on the short term and what they can mean for the world as a whole.
Brenning really hits his stride as he juggles the things we can see, with those that we cannot.
The writing style is easy to read. You are constantly propelled through the story as you chase the next crumb of character development or surprising turn of events. Of particular interest was the exploration of the unsteady alliance of Northern tribes. We get some new point of views to explore to aid this. A mixture of noble, the ambitious and the insane are explored. I normally find ‘evil’ characters a little on the predictable side of storytelling but those types of characters in this novel are delicious to get into the mind of. I’m a bit worried about the effect this book may be having on my sanity…
The Wrathbringer elevated a series that I was enjoying to one that I am desparate to continue going forward. It built on the strong historical military elements and introduced a complex world, full of grey archetypes and characters teetering on the brink of madness and greatness. Highly recommended.
March 28, 2024
This book was a full blast masterpiece. Every page was pure pleasure to read, I didn't want it to end. The Hellborn King blew me away with how good it was, but The Wrathbringer far surpasses it. The character arc was so well done that I couldn't decide which chapter I was waiting for the most. The cruelty and violence of the world is excellently portrayed, as well as military tactics. I have to admit, this book made it into the top 5 that I read this year, nit gonna lie.
By the way Chris, if you are reading this, I have not forgiven you for Charlotte, she really grew dear to me😪
By the way Chris, if you are reading this, I have not forgiven you for Charlotte, she really grew dear to me😪
June 18, 2023
Brutally beautiful. Absolutely in love with this series. Christopher G.Brenning has done what a lot of authors fail to do, and that is to follow up an amazing debut with an equally if not better sequel. Something about these characters/plot and brutal world, has resonated with me.
Cannot wait to continue with this series.
Cannot wait to continue with this series.
October 4, 2022
4.5 stars
December 28, 2022
Solid continuation of a series I become to love.
Possible spoilers ahead.
So first off, I devoured the Hellborn King in less then a week. I liked it really much and was looking forward too reading Wrathbringer. I must say I enjoyed this thoroughly as well. However it did suffer from the middle of the series problem for some of the characters.
Let's start of with the two new characters. Zander is a really cool addition. He is barbaric and ruthless but also very cunning and calculated. His path towards the end where he happens to be a real threat for Damian ads a lot of dynamics to the northmen storyline. Now both camos have their internal struggles. The northmen are not that invincible horde anymore. Which added to the tension. I liked Sylvia Stormguard directly in the Helborn King, so I was pleased to get some chapters from her. She is a fierce female fighter, I liked her pov chapters although her story ends a little stuck in the middle and I'm very curious how it will continue. To round up the Northmen we have Einarr. A familiar face. He had some cool chapters getting used to his famers life again after the war. Those chapters didn't click for me. But I liked the more supernatural chapters, especially the one at castle Morden. He's is racing back to Damian, and Damian is going to need it after getting his ass kicked.
We see Charlotte getting rid of the chains that the King imprisoned her in the last years. Great development of character and also her bond with the people I really liked. Pesonally, I would have let her kill the king but this doesn't happen. I felt there could have been more to her storyline but well, it's good to see no one is safe and pov characters do get written out. Which brings us to Lucetta. I really like Lucetta as a character. is this entity real, or is it in her head. We need some serious answers as this entity forces her to do cruel things. However the heist part and the buying of the slaves dragged on a little too much. The sack of Cardale and her role in it was marvelous. Especially the dynamic with Aldred was cool where she realized he may be more then a bureaucrat but then gets sick of the idea. She is a hateable character. I really like how her actions kick off the prologue and the epilogue making a new Northern warband join the fray. I would like to see more from Charlotte especially answering the origins and goals of the entity.
The we come to Gareth. Our warrior king. What is not to like about him. As a true king he steers the troops to war while taking care of Madelyn. He is awesome, but also he has little flaws left. I would like to see him do some moral grey things. Like killing off half his command because he feels threatened by the assassination attempt. Something to make him less of a good guy. The on to Madelyn. Well I found the start of the story heartbreaking. Then she delivers a baby, and boy, it would be a missed opportunity to not have the baby have a major role. As he is of Evaldanyr blood as well and might have a big influence on the story. Now he is quickly shoved off to an orphanage (without Madelyn worrying on that for a second, which I find odd), but wouldn't it be cool if he plays a part in the upcomming book. Last but not least Titan. Yeah Titan! He is becoming my favourite character. Badass, angry and a total wild card when he gets his blood rage. On the other hand he is like a father for Madelyn. Yeah Tyler Bradshaw is by far the coolest character together with Zander.
The writing is very accessible, even for me as a non native speaker, where English is my 3th language. I like the grotesque reality of the battles. the Evaldanyr history could do with more elaboration as well as the ways of magic (like Madelyn in the realm with the pupputs). It seems right now everything is there for the story and plot. I like my worlds feel like more eleborated, even while you don't use everything. What is the complete pantheon like, where are the other fords (next to Cardale and Morden), are Lazilyth and Madelyn the only ones to acces the other realms? How is this even possible. What other major cities are there?
I enjoyed the book thoroughly. Can't wait for the prequel or 3th installment. I will buy and read it for sure. It is a gripping tale which I'm dedicated to see through to the end.
Overall Rating 4/5
World Building 3/5
Writing Style 4/5
Plot Development 4,5/5
Originality 3,5/5
Engaginess 5/5
Impactfulnes 4/5
Enjoyment 4,5/5
Production value 3/5
Two last questions:
1. How many books (novels and novella's) are planned for this series right now?
2. Any change to see hardcover editions (through Kickstarter/Broken Binding) ?
Keep up the good work Mr. Brenning!
Possible spoilers ahead.
So first off, I devoured the Hellborn King in less then a week. I liked it really much and was looking forward too reading Wrathbringer. I must say I enjoyed this thoroughly as well. However it did suffer from the middle of the series problem for some of the characters.
Let's start of with the two new characters. Zander is a really cool addition. He is barbaric and ruthless but also very cunning and calculated. His path towards the end where he happens to be a real threat for Damian ads a lot of dynamics to the northmen storyline. Now both camos have their internal struggles. The northmen are not that invincible horde anymore. Which added to the tension. I liked Sylvia Stormguard directly in the Helborn King, so I was pleased to get some chapters from her. She is a fierce female fighter, I liked her pov chapters although her story ends a little stuck in the middle and I'm very curious how it will continue. To round up the Northmen we have Einarr. A familiar face. He had some cool chapters getting used to his famers life again after the war. Those chapters didn't click for me. But I liked the more supernatural chapters, especially the one at castle Morden. He's is racing back to Damian, and Damian is going to need it after getting his ass kicked.
We see Charlotte getting rid of the chains that the King imprisoned her in the last years. Great development of character and also her bond with the people I really liked. Pesonally, I would have let her kill the king but this doesn't happen. I felt there could have been more to her storyline but well, it's good to see no one is safe and pov characters do get written out. Which brings us to Lucetta. I really like Lucetta as a character. is this entity real, or is it in her head. We need some serious answers as this entity forces her to do cruel things. However the heist part and the buying of the slaves dragged on a little too much. The sack of Cardale and her role in it was marvelous. Especially the dynamic with Aldred was cool where she realized he may be more then a bureaucrat but then gets sick of the idea. She is a hateable character. I really like how her actions kick off the prologue and the epilogue making a new Northern warband join the fray. I would like to see more from Charlotte especially answering the origins and goals of the entity.
The we come to Gareth. Our warrior king. What is not to like about him. As a true king he steers the troops to war while taking care of Madelyn. He is awesome, but also he has little flaws left. I would like to see him do some moral grey things. Like killing off half his command because he feels threatened by the assassination attempt. Something to make him less of a good guy. The on to Madelyn. Well I found the start of the story heartbreaking. Then she delivers a baby, and boy, it would be a missed opportunity to not have the baby have a major role. As he is of Evaldanyr blood as well and might have a big influence on the story. Now he is quickly shoved off to an orphanage (without Madelyn worrying on that for a second, which I find odd), but wouldn't it be cool if he plays a part in the upcomming book. Last but not least Titan. Yeah Titan! He is becoming my favourite character. Badass, angry and a total wild card when he gets his blood rage. On the other hand he is like a father for Madelyn. Yeah Tyler Bradshaw is by far the coolest character together with Zander.
The writing is very accessible, even for me as a non native speaker, where English is my 3th language. I like the grotesque reality of the battles. the Evaldanyr history could do with more elaboration as well as the ways of magic (like Madelyn in the realm with the pupputs). It seems right now everything is there for the story and plot. I like my worlds feel like more eleborated, even while you don't use everything. What is the complete pantheon like, where are the other fords (next to Cardale and Morden), are Lazilyth and Madelyn the only ones to acces the other realms? How is this even possible. What other major cities are there?
I enjoyed the book thoroughly. Can't wait for the prequel or 3th installment. I will buy and read it for sure. It is a gripping tale which I'm dedicated to see through to the end.
Overall Rating 4/5
World Building 3/5
Writing Style 4/5
Plot Development 4,5/5
Originality 3,5/5
Engaginess 5/5
Impactfulnes 4/5
Enjoyment 4,5/5
Production value 3/5
Two last questions:
1. How many books (novels and novella's) are planned for this series right now?
2. Any change to see hardcover editions (through Kickstarter/Broken Binding) ?
Keep up the good work Mr. Brenning!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2025
The Wrathbringer clearly shows how much Brenning has matured as a writer since The Hellborn King. Where the first book laid the groundwork, this sequel digs deep into history, culture, and myth, giving the world a richness and gravity that elevates the entire narrative.
The characters, already scarred and complex, are given even more space to grow. Relationships deepen, motivations sharpen, and the emotional stakes climb. It often feels like each major player is teetering on the brink of something irreversible, and that tension thrums throughout the story.
What stands out is Brenning’s ability to expand the scale without losing the grit and intensity that made the first book so gripping. The prose feels tighter, the pacing more assured, and the world more vividly brutal than ever.
That said, I found the number of dream sequences a bit excessive. While some of them add depth or thematic weight, others slowed the narrative down and disrupted the otherwise taut momentum.
I’m still torn on whether I prefer this one over the first. Both hit hard, just in different ways. But what’s certain is that The Wrathbringer firmly establishes this series as a top-tier grimdark experience.
Highly recommended for readers who love dark fantasy rich in lore, tension, and emotional heft.
The characters, already scarred and complex, are given even more space to grow. Relationships deepen, motivations sharpen, and the emotional stakes climb. It often feels like each major player is teetering on the brink of something irreversible, and that tension thrums throughout the story.
What stands out is Brenning’s ability to expand the scale without losing the grit and intensity that made the first book so gripping. The prose feels tighter, the pacing more assured, and the world more vividly brutal than ever.
That said, I found the number of dream sequences a bit excessive. While some of them add depth or thematic weight, others slowed the narrative down and disrupted the otherwise taut momentum.
I’m still torn on whether I prefer this one over the first. Both hit hard, just in different ways. But what’s certain is that The Wrathbringer firmly establishes this series as a top-tier grimdark experience.
Highly recommended for readers who love dark fantasy rich in lore, tension, and emotional heft.
March 17, 2024
Revenge and redemption is the overall theme in book 2. Brenning expands the world a bit more and introduces us to a couple new characters, one who I feel has something hidden up his sleeve. In fact, there is a moral flaw in every character and by the end of the book, it was hard for me to root for anyone in particular. That isn't a knock on the story, by the way. Being conflicted as a reader can make things harder to predict.
The format of the book is the same as the first -- short POV chapters that I was able to squeeze in during those short, precious downtimes. The story was a bit of a slog about a quarter in, but it ramps up quickly. Overall, I enjoyed it and I'm curious to see where this story is heading. It sort of reminds me of the Robert E. Howard (Conan) stories and comics I used to read as a teen.
The format of the book is the same as the first -- short POV chapters that I was able to squeeze in during those short, precious downtimes. The story was a bit of a slog about a quarter in, but it ramps up quickly. Overall, I enjoyed it and I'm curious to see where this story is heading. It sort of reminds me of the Robert E. Howard (Conan) stories and comics I used to read as a teen.
March 23, 2023
Where to start?
Combine early GoT with The Last Kingdom and toss in a helping of King Arthur (2004) and you'll come close to this sprawling epic tale of war, greed, treachery, and mystical love.
Prepare to dive into a majestic and believable empire of twists and turns.
Believe me when I say...you'll be craving more!
Combine early GoT with The Last Kingdom and toss in a helping of King Arthur (2004) and you'll come close to this sprawling epic tale of war, greed, treachery, and mystical love.
Prepare to dive into a majestic and believable empire of twists and turns.
Believe me when I say...you'll be craving more!
August 8, 2023
A solid 3.5 stars out of 5. Probably as close to 4 stars as a book can get without being a 4 star read for me. I really enjoyed this one. Even more so than book 1 (The Hellborn King). Christopher Brenning is clearly getting better with each book he writes. Some of the best redemption arcs in anything I’ve ever read as far as two of the characters. The battle scenes are well written. Im super excited for book 3 whenever it comes out!
8/8/23 Edit/Update:
I think it’s important to add that my rating and review system isn’t like a lot of peoples. A 3.5 star rating is a pretty good rating from me. I RARELY give out 4.5 or 5 star ratings. Maybe two or three times a year. I reserve 5 stars for books that become all-time top 20 favorites of mine. A 4.5 means that I felt the book was incredible. The REASON I structure my rating system this way is so that my rating has more meaning. WAY TOO OFTEN I see people give out 5 star ratings to almost every book they read. It makes their ratings mean less and harder to gauge how good the book actually is. THAT BEING SAID…Wrathbringer is a really good book that I really enjoyed. I HIGHLY recommend it to fans of Dark Fantasy, Grimdark, and Military Fantasy!
8/8/23 Edit/Update:
I think it’s important to add that my rating and review system isn’t like a lot of peoples. A 3.5 star rating is a pretty good rating from me. I RARELY give out 4.5 or 5 star ratings. Maybe two or three times a year. I reserve 5 stars for books that become all-time top 20 favorites of mine. A 4.5 means that I felt the book was incredible. The REASON I structure my rating system this way is so that my rating has more meaning. WAY TOO OFTEN I see people give out 5 star ratings to almost every book they read. It makes their ratings mean less and harder to gauge how good the book actually is. THAT BEING SAID…Wrathbringer is a really good book that I really enjoyed. I HIGHLY recommend it to fans of Dark Fantasy, Grimdark, and Military Fantasy!
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