Shadowfall

Godslayer Chronicles #1

by James Clemens

Four millennia have passed since the gods came to Myrillia, creating the nine lands of peace as a haven from the nightmarish, accursed Hinterlands.

In all this time nothing has disturbed the harmony of the nine lands.But now the goddess of the Summering Isles has been murdered. The only witness is Tylar de Noche, a crippled and disgraced former Shadowknight. As he holds the dying goddess, her last breath bestows a powerful blessing on him-a mark that heals his broken body. A mark that many see as proof that he killed a god. A mark that unleashes a powerful force of darkness within him.

Chased across Myrillia by enemies both human and ethereal, Tylar must uncover and face down a being powerful enough to kill an immortal-the true godslayer. For if he fails, all of Myrillia will fall into shadow.

Genres: Fantasy, High Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Fiction, Dark Fantasy, Science Fiction Fantasy, Magic

529 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

James Clemens [Aka James Rollins] was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1961. With his three brothers and three sisters, he was raised in the Midwest and rural Canada. He attended the University of Missouri and graduated with a doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1985. The lure of ocean, sun, and new horizons eventually drew him to the West Coast, where he established his veterinary practice in Sacramento, California, eventually settling for good in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

He is the author of The Banned and the Banished series (The Wit’ch War Saga) and The Godslayer Chronicles.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

There's some really ynteresting world-bylding yn thys, and the idea of the characters ys good. But the karakteryzations themselves are less than full and the plot, while solyd, ysn't extraordynary. The pages dyd blow by, though I would have liked fewer sylly spellyngs. Just styking a y yn your wyrds doesn't make thym fantastikal, okayyyy?

[Mihir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review originally at Fantasy Book Critic

OVERVIEW/ANALYSIS: We begin with Shadowfall, the first chronicle of the Godslayer wherein we are introduced to Tylar De Noche, a fallen shadowknight and also a cripple, broken in mind, body and spirit. After some shady dealings in his past, he has had to pay an exorbitant price that has taken a toll on his life, relationship and mental status. He happens to witness something so bizarre that it basically triggers another painful turn of events that will have ramifications all across Myrillia. From here on we are given a look into another POV character, a young girl named Dart who is an orphan and has been bullied all throughout her life. She’s in an orphanage in Chrismferry where an odious attack turns her life upside down and sets her on the path to find out her true heritage. Lastly there’s Kathryn Ser Vail who shares an agonizing connection to Tylar and soon will be pulled into the intrigue and machinations surrounding Tylar.

Why do I love this book and series so much, in two words; FANTASTICAL WORLDBUILDING! From the first chapter, the author quickly and surely immerses the reader in a world that is beyond a doubt one of the most fascination ones created by using Gods. Sure Steven Erikson’s Malazan series does similar things and more but James Clemens makes his books much more accessible than Erikson (though some might complain that his writing is too straight forward). But for most fantasy readers, this world will be like no other they have experienced before. James Clemens is the nom-de-plume for renowned thriller writer James Rollins and as was the case with his adventure thriller books, James always creates memorable setting for his books. Myrillia encompasses a huge chunk of his imagination and further highlights are revealed when the readers are told more about the world via its policing system the Shadowknights. The Shadowknights are an organization to themselves who help the Gods with their lands and also help protect the innocent populace against the ravages of fiends and rogue Gods from the hinterlands. Then there’s the whole aspect of being “a hand to the Gods”, which will be exciting for the readers to discover.

The story basically is a thriller masquerading itself as a dark, epic fantasy. Beginning from the prologue and first chapter one, things are constantly cascading towards the impressive climax. Things of course are bit more clearcut with Tylar but with the other POV characters, the author takes some myriad turns. Also one more thing about this story is that it is vehemently dark, what I mean about that is that both male and female characters face the threat of physical, psychological and sexual abuse. For those who can’t stand violence or rape scenes please be forewarned this book has one that which while not gratuitous, will cause uncomfortableness that I believe is the intent of the author.

Lastly once you finish Shadowfall, you’ll be hard-pressed to seek out the sequel Hinterland as the amount of secrets and plot twists that are revealed in the first volume make the second volume a must read. Dark, imaginative and disturbing are the three words that come to my mind when I think about Shadowfall and as far as adjectives go, these are great ones to describe a series that seriously defines the “God-Punk” subgenre and is critically unknown among fantasy fandom.

[Foomy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A man witnesses the murder of a god and is falsely accused of doing the deed. He must prove his innocence and, of course, uncovers a deeper, darker plot.

The setting is that of a world inhabited by gods, substantial beings that people can see and interact with. The chief difference between gods and mortals, other than basic immortality, is that their bodily fluids are magical. ALL their fluids, including "yellow and black bile." In fact, most of the world's technology is based on the utilization of these fluids.

The story focuses on a very few key characters and settings, which is a nice break from sprawling epics that tend to have dozens to keep track of. The main characters all have major flaws and watching them deal with their problems is fairly entertaining, as is discovering what's really happening behind the scenes.

The one complaint I have about this book is that it spends a lot of time on all the gods' body fluids. Yes, it's important but after the fifth time you read about the stench emanating from the guy who has his hands smeared with "black bile" in order to do something magical, you don't need the imagery anymore.

Other than that, I enjoyed the book. The premise is interesting, and the magic system, while occasionally a bit nauseating, is quite unique. I look forward to reading more about the characters in future volumes.

[Su Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Shadowfall: Book One in the Godslayer Chronicles, by James Clemens. What a truly dark, foreboding, albeit magical world this book is. At times it was hard to distinguish hero from protagonist by their actions. Just a literary reminder that there is good and evil inside all of us. Which way we 'turn' is a dilemma we face every day. A lot of writers think writing a fantasy story is easy. Come on, it's fantasy. You can make anything up. But, a good writer knows that what you make up has to be believable. James Clemens has created a world in Shadowfall that I want to visit. I could see every detail of the people, places and objects he described. I could see Tylar de Noche, a disgraced Shadowknight, and his broken, deformed body. I could feel the cool breezes blowing across the nine lands of Myrillia. I could taste and smell the aromas that wafted up from the kitchen windows in cities we traveled through. (I say 'we' like I'm a character in the book. In any novel I read, especially Jim's, I feel as if I am a part of the storyline. I am a silent, unseen character hiding in the dark shadows waiting to come racing to the rescue the moment anyone cries for my help. Alas, considering the number of books I have read, I feel I am destined to remain in the shadows unseen and unknown.) Shadowfall takes us on a journey across Myrillia as Tylar chases down a Godslayer, a being capable of killing an immortal. Tylar has one power on his side - he has been blessed by a dying goddess. Our Hero undertakes this journey with Delia, a priestess, and Rogger, a thief. The trio's quest is to find, and for Tylar to destroy, this monster before it destroys Myrillia. James has the ability to move us through action sequences at breakneck speed where characters are dodging swords, jumping over obstacles and sliding just out of reach of that hand holding a knife. There were times I had to stop, turn on a light, and check to see if I had any life threatening wounds. (I can reassure you that I escaped unscathed.) James is one of the most prolific writers of today. He creates astoundingly real places I want to visit and surprisingly believable people that I want to get to know. He has the magical power through his writing that allows me to escape, for the length of a book, and travel through the dark intricacies of his mind. And, I always know after escaping through one of his adventurous stories, that by the last page, I will be gently deposited back to the safety of my couch at home. This book runs the full gamut of emotions - happy, sad, frightening, heartbreaking and uplifting. If you haven't read this book, do yourself a favor. Get this book (it may be hard to find, it is one of his older books-2005), find a cozy corner, crack it open, sit back and enjoy. You won't regret it. I am eagerly looking forward to Hinterland: Book Two of The Godslayer Chronicles.

[Nickyrian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book from a public library for $1. I was immediately enticed by the bookcover and intrigued by its synopsis. After reading it, I could finally say that this was a gem. This was my first reading of this author’s writing, James Clemens (a.k.a. James Rollins). Now I could understand why he’s so popular on mystery/thriller genre. This book started on a good note of mystery, and it unraveled in a manner that would keep your attention hyped up. I’d like to thank the person who donated this book to Clark County Public Library on West Sahara. Without your generosity, I would not know the great mind and work of this author in fantasy.

Here’s my own summation. The story evolved on two main characters (Tylar de Noche and Dart). Tylar was a former Shadowknight. He was stripped of his knight power due to crime he had committed. For his punishment, he was banished to slavery and lived in Summering Isles for five years as street rat. On the other hand, Dart was an orphan who was raised in Conclave (a school training younglings to be handmaiden or Hand to Gods of Myrillia). Her lineage was unknown until she crossed the path that intertwined with Tylar. The fate of Myrillia depended on them. The story entailed a little of romance, lots of fighting, dying, betrayal, magic, and family relationship. Pupp and Dart were a heart-melting duo. ❤️

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m totally clueless not knowing this Author writes in Fantasy as well, and it’s a really good one too! Shadowfall is a story of Tylar de Noche, a former Shadowknight convicted of murders. Now crippled and disgraced will redeem himself with the Graces of the goddess Meeryn and her naethryn. Shadowfall is a novel written with multiple mysteries, and with each discovery flowed smoothly with the characters created within.

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

The term “unputdownable” was invented for this book. So glad I took a chance on such an obscure book. It was amazing.

[Jim Gorman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, I have no idea why it took me so long to re-read this book. Probably more than 10 years. I had totally forgotten how good it was, and I forgotten all kinds of major plot twists. It was like reading it all over again. I enjoyed the whole alchemy version of their religion and magic. It was a nice new twist on things. If you are looking to start a new series, this is a great one to read. The characters are well developed, the story flows nicely, and it is leading up to some great books to come. I know I have the second book at least, so I will start that tonight so everything is fresh in my mind.

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, if sometimes a bit graphic, read. I enjoy the very unique take on magic system based on gods bodily fluids. Additionally, the fact that the gods are not exactly how they appear, and the many twists and turns the fate of the characters take through out this book and the subsequent series.

I have a particular appreciation for any author who allows no character to be truly immortal in the story.

Be warned, this series is NOT complete, and the author has not returned to it in over 5 years...

[Z.K. Dorward · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world building and character development in this book are sensational. Myrillia is rich with uniqueness, which is dappled through the book with no info-dumps about the lands and rich descriptions.

The characters are well-written and the way they’re tied together was really well planned and takes you aback sometimes. They each have their own personality and purpose in the book.

Shadowfall kept me guessing and shocked me right up to the last page. It was captivating, enthralling, and impossible to put down.

[Vigasia · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a shame that the series was abandoned. I would like to see the whole story wrapped up.

[Cristyn West · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadowfall is much grittier than Clemens' "Wit'ch Fire" series (which I loved as well) and all the better for it.

I love the world he has created with the Gods having bound themselves to the land and their body humors acting as 'Graces.'

It is a beautiful, wild world where dark magic is potent and endangers Clemens amazing characters.

If you like any sort of high fantasy with a dark edge, Shadowfall is for you!

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read. Clemens has invented a unique system of magic, characters with depth, and a plot with more turns than a Hill Country road (if you live in Central Texas, you know what I mean). I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series, Hinterland.

Nonetheless, he never finished the series, so I have to subtract a half-star because I know the second book will leave me hanging...

It's still worth the read, though.

[Anastasia Guiler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this about six years ago and am pleased to say it has held up! Astounding creativity and some great characters, I enjoyed this book just as much the second time around. I will say that sometimes the exposition gets a little clunky, but other than that its a real page-turner! I'm so excited to hear that the author has finished the next few books in the series and will be releasing them soon!

[Pam Bryson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely well-written. Great vocabulary and sentence structure. This was definitely a "I can't put commendations from other people who love James Clemens. Yes, I know he also writes as James Rollithis down" book. I wish James Clemens wrote more than two series of fantasy books! Appreciate any recommendations of other authors from people who can't get enough of James Clemens. Yes, i know he also writes as James Rollins.

[Ross Gillepic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another awesome book by the best author in the world. You cant read a book by James Clemens and not give it 5/5. A very satisfying start to another excellent series. This book is followed by Hinterland and i am currently waiting for the next book. The only bad thing about James Clemens is that he takes so long to write his books. But in the end they are worth it so i dont mind how long he takes.

[Deanna Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omygosh.... this was SUCH a good book. Clemens has created a world that I can't wait to go back to.

He created a WONDERFUL hero with a complex background that I am looking forward to more details on.

I got this as a library book, but am going to have to go out and buy this one so that I can read it again.... and maybe again after that!

[Mija Valdez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The worldbuilding in this series is just phenomenal, and so imaginative. The feel of it is unusually organic. Be warned. There is no book three at this point and it does not appear to be on the horizon, except in the author's intention. That said, it's so worth reading anyway. It does nice things to my brain and takes me to places that feel truly different. :)

[Orianna Gingerhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no wooooords! damnnn! I was there, I was fighting and traveling, feeling pain and was frightened. author's imagination is limitless

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put this down. Well written, exciting and who doesn't like a bit of good old fantasy.

[Nathan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good fantasy novel by James Rollins.

I disliked the part of humour/bodily fluids from Gods as the special graces & handmaidens made to collect these things as a service to god. I really detested each time - bodily fluids were used/came in context.
Miioden-- Kraken
Fyla -- Atlantis Queen. etc. So many references.

Tylar de Noche - the disgraced night, unfortunate events befell him and then he became something like a demi-god blessed by Meeryn. One of the hundred Gods.
Tylar had a dark dog, Dart had a flame dog. These were nice..
The same old - save the world. defeat the dark enemies from the void- naether. Creatures from void - naethryn etc etc.

3.75 stars for this novel. I expected more mind blowing stuff from an author such as James Rollins. This just fell short for me.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a genre fit to bursting with divine wars and magic Knights, Clemens walks familiar territory with the first book in his new series Godslayer. But, with a deft hand, he weaves a tale that has far more originality than is at first apparent.

In the world of Myrillia, the gods walk amongst men. 4,000 years ago, the Heavens were Sundered during the War of the Gods and they fell to the earth. Binding themselves to the land to offset the madness that was falling upon them, the Gods are confined to the kingdoms they have chosen, or which have sprung up around them and have brought peace and prosperity to mankind. They have taught their Hands - men and women specially trained to serve them - how to harvest the humours of their bodies (Blood, Masculine Seed/Female Menses, Sweat, Tears, Saliva, Phlegm, Yellow Bile and Black Bile) and trained Alchemists make of these humours Blessings that, when applied to either a mortal or inanimate object, instil that human, or object with ‘Grace’.

Among the Graced are the Shadowknights of Tashijan, a military order whose knights are the most sought-after guards, bodyguards and couriers in the world. Tylar de Noche is a disgraced Shadowknight. Betrayed by those he held dearest, he has been stripped of his Grace and had his body broken by a sentence of five years amongst the slave pits and gladiatorial circuses. Trying to hide away and forget his past life in the small realm of the Summering Isles, he is caught up in intrigue and darkness when he comes to the aid of a woman being pursued through the city’s dark alleys. Arriving too late to offer her help, he comforts her in her final moments, only to discover that the woman is Meeryn, the Goddess of the Isles. With her dying breath, Meeryn gifts, or curses, Tylar with untold Grace and charges him to find Rivenscryr.

Apprehended by her late-arriving guards, Tylar is charged with slaying a god. Discovering the terrible Grace that Meeryn has bestowed upon him, Tylar manages to escapes a fate worse than the torture of the slaves pits and sets out on a desperate quest to find out who had the power to kill a Goddess and to uncover the mystery of Rivenscryr; a journey that will lead him back to the Citadel of Tashijan and the women whose testimony had him cast out of the Order five years before, the woman he loved, and into corruption hiding in the heart of the First Land itself.

Clemens skilfully weaves various characters and storylines together creating a fast-paced page-turner. Unafraid to explore the darker aspects of human nature some scenes will make you squirm, yet they hold that inexplicable attraction similar to being unable to turn away from viewing an accident scene.

I really wish he'd come back and finsh this series off - and write more fantasy!

[Austin McConnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadowfall was the first novel by James Clemens that I've read and I was quite impressed. HIs character development progresses smoothly. He effectively switches between character points-of-view at critical moments and leaves us dying to know what happens with the other character. The plot is more than adequate with plenty of developments and unexpected revelations. Not a slow, plodding book but action packed! Definitely recommend.

[Terence · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised by Shadowfall. It seemed somewhat interesting from the premise, but it worked out wonderfully in the execution. The characters come out in vivid detail as I shared their fear and uncertainty. Its hard to describe the events without giving away the detailed stories twists and turns...so all in all I want to say I quite enjoyed it.

[Sian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadowfall - James Clemens

A fast paced and exciting read. All the stories and experiences are woven together so seamlessly it was just magical. I really truly loved this book --book 2 is now sat at the top of my must read list for this month * I really recommend this if you haven't had a good read in a while.

[Mediks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this author quite by accident and was pleasently surprised. I had a lot of trouble putting it down and finished it in less than 2 days. The plot was gripping and exciting. I am looking forward to reading more from James.

[Jorian Sortor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I've ever had the chance to read. The author was able to create a REAL world full of grey. I think it may be a little too gruesome for the weak hearted but it is amazing if you know that nothing is black & white.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

James clemens is one of my favorite writers after the banned and the banished series. I really liked this new series, that said... DO NOT READ THIS! It's great but it hasn't been announced that he will finish it. Those 2 books is probably all we will get.

[McMookerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing. He introduces us tons fantasy world unlike any others that I've ever read. About halfway through the book, the roller coaster ride starts and doesn't let up. I couldn't put this book down. Amazing stuff.

[Zachary Isaac Tilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

When is the rest of this series coming out?

Iread this book alooong time ago after finishing the witch saga....I love James Clemens works and hope to read the rest of this series soon!