THE PARIAH

Last few books the author were a little disappointing to be honest... But with this new series he is the fine form of his debut books, which also got him the fame. The plot is excellent, the word building superb and the characters well fleshed out. It's not really a coming of age book as much as one of a growing up in a long long winter without adequate food and all the forced choices therein.Read it my friends u won't be disappointed.

meets expectations well written good character development slightly slow at first but picks up nicelycant wait for next one

I have enjoyed reading this book immensely! This is by far one of my favorite books ever. The author truly is a word smith ! Ha ha ! I am going to be reading more from this author from now on. The way he brings the story to life! Two thumbs way up

I realize now when I have finished the book that some people may be put off as some described scenes are a bit gory but aren't all books when the characters are using swords and leather armor ? Enjoyable central character with plenty of flaws to make him endearing. Can't wit for the next in the series.

Tolles spannendes Buch

Possibly the most exciting, best written fantasy book I have been given to read over the past ten years, this series truly seems like a masterpiece to me. I’m in the middle of book two and already can’t wait for the third and last to be published (hopefully this year, as announced).

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.The main character is Alwyn, the illegitimate son of a prostitute. Fleeing for his life at an early age, he finds himself in the company of thieves, robbers and murderers in an outlaw band living in the forest. Here he grows and learns his skills in life. Alwyn is content to live amongst the lowest of society until his life takes a sudden twist. Betrayal abruptly results in a dramatic change in Alwyn's life. What follows is Alwyn working his way up, becoming a warrior in a bloody quest for vengeance.For some reason, I struggled to get into the book at the start; however, I was very soon engrossed in the story. Pages flew past as I sunk into the mesmerising tale. The biggest problem with the story is the delay till the next book in the series. The plot flows smoothly for the most part. As expected from the author of the blood song, the world-building is phenomenal. Similar to blood song, the story is from the protagonists perspective.The characters have depth; the protagonist, Alwyn, is noted for his intelligence early in the book. Organically this lends to deeper introspection and thought. Women are fascinating and brought to life, unsurprising given the strong female leads in previous books. Throughout a journey set in a medieval world, a variety of individuals appear at pivotal moments. Each one changes Alwyn's life, and thus the story. Magic, surprisingly, is barely present. The tale takes life through the heroes journey. A path through a landscape influenced by faith, politics and battle. Fight scenes are vivid and enchanting, a marked improvement. Maybe Anthony has taken lessons from John Gwynne, whose quote graces the amazon page.This is a brilliant book and a great start to a new series. Recommended and worth buying.