Valor

The Faithful and the Fallen #2

by John Gwynne

The Banished Lands is torn by war as High King Nathair sweeps the land challenging all who oppose him in his holy crusade. Allied with the manipulative Queen Rhin of Cambren, there are few who can stand against them. But Rhin is playing her own games and has her eyes on a far greater prize... Left for dead, her kin fled and her country overrun with enemies, Cywen has no choice but to try to survive. But any chance of escape is futile once Nathair and his disquieting advisor Calidus realise who she is. They have no intention of letting such a prize from their grasp. For she may be their greatest chance at killing the biggest threat to their power. Meanwhile, the young warrior Corban flees from his conquered homeland with his exiled companions heading for the only place that may offer them sanctuary - Domhain. But to get there they must travel through Cambren avoiding warbands, giants and the vicious wolven of the mountains. And all the while Corban must battle to become the man that everyone believes him to be - the Bright Star and saviour of the Banished Lands. And in the Otherworld dark forces scheme to bring a host of the Fallen into the world of flesh to end the war with the Faithful, once and for all.

Genres: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Fiction, High Fantasy, Audiobook, Adult, Magic

640 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2014

About the author

I am the author of epic fantasy series The Faithful and the Fallen, Of Blood and Bone and The Bloodsworn Saga. I'm also a Viking re-enactor and enjoy nothing more than standing in the shield wall with my three sons, who are as passionate about swords and axes as I am (when I'm not stuck in my coat of mail; it's harder than it looks).
I live on the south coast of the UK with my beautiful wife, three sons and my daughter, and an assortment of animals (at the moment three dogs, a horse and a lamb who thinks she's a dog).
My dogs think I am their slave.

Malice, my debut novel, was published by Pan Macmillan in 2012 and went on to win the David Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Fantasy Debut of 2012. That was a truly wonderful moment, as David Gemmell is a hero of mine and one of the reasons I write.

The following three books in the series - Valour, Ruin and Wrath, were all shortlisted for the David Gemmell Legend Award for Best Fantasy Novels of 2014, 2015 and 2016, with Wrath winning the 2017 BookNest Awards for Best Traditionally Published Novel.

My second series, of Blood and Bone, is set in the Banished Lands, the same world as the first series. Book 1, A Time of Dread, begins 130 years after the events of the first series. A Time of Courage, book 3 Of Blood and Bone, made the Spiegel Bestseller's List in Germany.

My latest book, The Shadow of the Gods, book 1 of the Bloodsworn Saga, will be published in May 2021. It is inspired by Norse mythology, Beowulf and Ragnarök.

I am represented by Julie Crisp.

Reviews

[Petrik · Rating 5 out of 5]

'War has erupted in the Banished Lands as the race for power intensifies' and with that eruption, comes a well deserved 5-stars rating.

I gave huge praises to Malice, it was impressive but Valor, the second book in John Gwynne’s debut series was incredibly better than its predecessor. I included both Malice and Valor in one of my all-time favorite lists; that’s two out of four books of the series already. Judging from the quality progression of the series, I strongly believe the second half of The Faithful and the Fallen will follow that notion.

Valor immediately continued from where Malice left off and it's simply insane how much better it was. The story grew darker and complex because the prophecy from the first book has finally unraveled its thread; this means that the Bright Star & Black Sun identity have also been revealed. The unraveling of the prophecy provided a highly faster-paced plot progression compared to some other epic fantasy series. For example, the nowhere in sight “Winter is Coming” from A Song of Ice and Fire; even after twenty years of publication, winter is still not here. Although the politicking was scarce here, the manipulation, scheming, and deception prevailed; it was even more common and evident compared to Malice; resulting in a terminal blind justice and beliefs for two of the main characters.

Friendship and family were some the best factor to come out from the first book. No need to worry, there's no shortage of them here despite how dark the story became. There were many heartwarming scenes between the lovable characters (both human and animals). Just within two books, John Gwynne managed to cast a love spell that compelled me to care so much towards the characters. The characters were really easy to get attached to because their personality, development, strength, and weaknesses were written extremely well. Plus, it was amazing to see how each characters’ POV intertwined. The world these lovable characters live in is truly harsh and bleak; heartbreaks bounded to occur. I haven’t mentioned any of the characters names since my Malice review for a good reason and I’ll continue this reviewing style for the rest of the series.

If I have to choose what Valor excels most than the first book, it would definitely be its action sequences. The characters from the first book have their personality well-established already, because of this, John Gwynne was able to focus more on the action scenes to create fantastic results. The pacing in Valor pacing was superbly paced. Full of brawl after brawl with only a short break before the next chaos happened again, there were so many wars and intense actions sequences spread throughout the whole book. Shield-Wall, strategic planning, stealth, giants, and magic; I absorbed these amazingly written action scenes as if I was truly in the mids of all the madness. Additionally, reading the wars and seeing the events unfolded from the perspectives of each opposition brings a huge amount of depth and emotion; in estimation, out of half of the 650 pages of this novel were phenomenal actions.

“Memory is a double-edged sword, Uthas. It can keep you strong through dark times, but it can also cripple you, keep you locked in a moment that no longer exists.”

Valor is an amazing second book of a series, it didn’t suffer the infamous second book syndrome and as a whole, it provided a highly engrossing experience. It was hard to put down, it contained wonderful plot and characters' developments, and I’m really happy to know that I still have two books left in this series to read. I simply can’t wait to see how the story evolved from here. In fact, I’m starting the next book, Ruin, immediately after I finished writing this review. Once again, I highly recommend this series to anyone who’s looking for a fantastic epic fantasy read with compelling characters, greatly written action sequences, and unpredictable plot. I'm halfway through the series now and my experience with it so far can be defined as Sic Parvis Magna—greatness from small beginnings. There’s absolutely no reason for you to skip this series if you’re a fan of epic fantasy with the classic 'Good vs Evil' theme told with a modern narrative.

You can order the book from: Book Depository (Free shipping)

You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions

[John Gwynne]

It is my pleasure to share the new cover for the Grim Oak Press special edition - Valour Special Edition

[Ira Perkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gwynne is fast becoming one of my favourite authors of all time - this was one mighty step up for a sequel!

Final Rating: 4.9/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕

Having only given Malice a four star review, I was nervous that perhaps I was going to miss the hype train that surrounds this series. I needn’t have worried. Valor blows its predecessor out of the water, making a spectacular leap over the dreaded second book slump with the grace of a seasoned acrobat. This isn't just a sequel; it's a full-throttle dive into action, intrigue, and cliffhangers that had me on the edge of my seat, ready to combust. While the first book in a series often charms me with the novelty of exploration, Valor proves that familiarity can indeed breed contempt—but only for putting the book down.

If Malice set the stage, Valor storms it with a vengeance. It's not just good; it's a rollercoaster that hijacks your attention and refuses to let go. From duels that dance off the pages to pit fights that punch the air from your lungs, this book is an adrenaline-fueled rally cry for epic fantasy lovers. So, buckle up and dive in— Valor isn't just amazing; it's a masterpiece that demands to be read.

Plot Summary
Valor, the second installment in John Gwynne's "The Faithful and the Fallen" series, picks up the sprawling saga of the Banished Lands, a realm rife with warrior angels, demonic entities, and prophecies foretelling a cataclysmic war. Following the dramatic events of "Malice," Corban and his companions find themselves fugitives, navigating treacherous waters and alliances, while facing new perils that test their resolve and loyalty. As they struggle to survive in a world where the lines between friend and foe blur, Cywen, Corban's sister, remains ensnared within the walls of Dun Carreg, surrounded by the very forces that have shattered their family. Her story of resilience and covert resistance adds a layer of intrigue, especially with her interactions with Veradis, whose loyalties seem increasingly conflicted.

Simultaneously, the narrative delves into the dark journey of Nathair, a prince deceived by malevolent influences into believing he is the Bright Star, the prophesied savior destined to lead the forces of good. His quest for power and relics to fortify his army reveals the complexities of ambition and the seductive nature of darkness. As Corban faces his own destiny, entwined with the unraveling prophecy that hints at his pivotal role in the looming God-War, the story grows darker and more intricate. Gwynne masterfully intertwines these characters' paths, exploring themes of fate, valor, and the grim cost of war, setting the stage for an epic struggle between the forces that seek to shape the fate of the Banished Lands.

Storytelling: 5.0/5
Compared to Malice this book felt like hitting the fast-forward button on an already gripping story. Where Malice laid the intricate groundwork of the Banished Lands, setting up its sprawling cast and complex web of prophecies, Valor picks up that baton and sprints with it. The pacing here is something else—it's like the book barely gives you a moment to catch your breath between one heart-pounding brawl and the next. Compared to Malice, which felt like it took its time a bit more to build the world and its characters, Valor is all about momentum, pushing the story forward with relentless energy.

For someone like me, who digs the dense, multi-POV storylines of a.k.a A Song of Ice and Fire, but sometimes wishes things would move a bit faster, Valor hit the spot perfectly. It's got that same epic scope and deep, complex world, but with more interesting POVs (well, maybe not more. Perhaps exclusively interesting - as in there were some POVs in ASOIF that I didn’t like) that makes it incredibly hard to put down. I especially appreciated how Valor expanded on the prophecies introduced in Malice, giving clearer insights into the players and stakes involved. Guessing which characters would end up being the champions for good and evil from the first book and then seeing how right (or wrong) I was turned out to be one of the many joys of diving into this sequel. In essence, Valor felt like it took the best parts of Malice and injected them with a new level of intensity and clarity, making for a sequel that's not just a continuation but an escalation in every sense.


World building: 4.5/5
In Valor, I found the Banished Lands reaching new depths of complexity and enchantment. Building from Malice, this sequel deepened my immersion into its magical and mythical layers, shifting from the quasi-historical tone to a realm brimming with fantasy. John Gwynne expanded on the prophecy in ways that enriched the world beyond its original scope, introducing more magical elements that made the setting pulsate with life.

The clarity and weight added to the prophecy didn't just drive the story forward; they expanded the world-building, making every nook of the Banished Lands more vibrant and intricate than before. This sequel felt like Gwynne had taken note of the desire for a richer fantasy environment and delivered precisely that, blending the familiar with fresh twists that captivated me.

The lean into a more fantastical realm made Valor a richer experience, making the world not just a backdrop but a character in its own right. The world-building in this book struck a perfect balance between the known and the new, leaving me feeling a great mix of immersive and detailed creation…. With all that being said though, I’m judging this world through the lens of having read the worlds in his later series. Which I think does world building even better. So no maximum marks from me here. I’m sorry.

Characterisation: 5.0/5
John Gwynne really knows how to pull us into his world, making us care heaps about his characters in no time. By the end of Valor, I felt like I knew these folks personally—their ups and downs had become mine too. It's not just that they're well-written; it's the way their lives crisscross and pull you deeper into the story. And honestly, the world they're navigating is no walk in the park, which only makes you root for them more.

I won’t mention character names here like I did in my Malice review to save spoilers of those who perish. But live or die I loved some of these characters - I’ve said it above as well, but unlike ASOIAF I really enjoyed every single POV in this. Gwynne's genius at bringing in new characters without missing a beat means we're constantly getting fresh perspectives, making the emotional rollercoaster all the more intense. Sharing this journey with them, feeling every high and low, is what makes diving into this series so rewarding. It's like, the more I read, the more I'm invested, and that's a rare thing to pull off.

Prose: 5.0/5
Jumping into my fourth Gwynne book, it's obvious: the man's writing is a cut above. Valor showcases his knack for vivid, dynamic prose, especially in the action scenes that practically pull you into the fray. He's getting better with each book, refining a style that's direct and immersive without being overly complex or flowery.

Gwynne excels in the battle scenes—intense and a bit bloodier than before, yet never too graphic. They're so engaging, you'd swear you're dodging the arrows yourself. His writing does exactly what it should: moves the story, deepens the world, makes you care about the characters, and does it all with a straightforwardness that lets the story's heart shine. You're always moving forward, always hooked, and that's what makes his books so hard to put down. In a nutshell, Gwynne's blend of clarity and intensity makes Valor an unforgettable read.

Enjoyment: 5.0/5
Jumping into Valor, I was blown away by how it ramped up everything I liked about its predecessor and then some. It's rare to see a sequel dodge the second-book slump so stylishly, but Gwynne nailed it, making the familiar world of the Banished Lands even more addictive. The story's pace, the deep dive into character development, and those edge-of-your-seat battles had me hooked, turning pages like there was no tomorrow. It's not just a book I liked; it's one that had me completely engrossed, raising the bar for what I look for in epic fantasy.

Now, waiting for the next book is like waiting for the next big rollercoaster ride while still buzzing from the last (I tend to read about 15 concurrent series at a time so it’ll be a while before I get to the next one). Gwynne's set the stage for an epic continuation, and I'm here for it, eager to see where we go next. My ride through the Banished Lands has been a thrill so far, and "Valor" has only cranked up my excitement. The thought of diving back into this world with characters that feel like old friends (and foes) is pretty much all the anticipation I need. Bring on the next adventure!

Final Rating: 4.9/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕

The Faithful and the Fallen :
Book 1. Malice: 4.3/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗
Book 2. Valor: 4.9/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕

My favourite books of 2024 in preferential order
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕:
1. The Way of Kings - (My Review: 5.0/5)
2. The Hunger of the Gods - (My Review: 5.0/5)
3. ValorValor
4. Dungeon Crawler Carl - (My Review: 4.8/5)
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗:
5. Empire of Silence - (My Review: 4.6/5)
6. The Shadow of What Was Lost - (My Review: 4.3/5)
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑:
7. The Poppy War - (My Review: 4.0/5)
🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑:
...
🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑:
8. Hyperion - (My Review: 3.1/5)
9. The Wandering Inn: Book 1 - (My Review: 2.9/5)
🌕🌕🌑🌑🌑:
...

[James Tivendale · Rating 4 out of 5]

"One thought circled in his head like the black birds swirling about the mountain peaks. They must be stopped." - Corban

Valour carries on literally minutes after the action when Malice presented us such an amazing breathless finale. We witness the so-called Bright Star Corban; and his bizarre accumulated band of all sorts that incorporates warriors, witches, Queens and outcast woodsmen - following on from the evacuation of Dun Carreg due to the unforeseeable monstrous actions that took place, with the effects still lingering amongst the groups' morale. It also picks up with readers favourite, Maquin awakening in the tombs underneath Haldis after the ultimate betrayal and follows him overcoming his tragic loss, knowing that his main ambition is now purely revenge.

All the point of view perspectives from Malice, if the characters are still alive that is; still continue here and Gwynne has united a bond between player and reader throughout the narrative. We really care about these guys as in one book we have already been through so much together. The Malice players perspectives would only cover about fifty-five percent of the world's happenings so many new and just as engrossing characters are introduced who let us prance around their minds and hear what is going on. These include hardened female Giant-fighter Coralen, Jehar warrior top-dog Tukul and Uthas, a giant who was featured in the first book of the saga but whose motives are unique and mysterious. The need for these new perspectives is so that when factions cross as either friends or foes, we have someone we can relate to on both sides which will help us understand the necessary camaraderie felt or potential hatred.

Corban is still the main perspective that we follow. At the start of this book, he doesn't accept or even really believe his foreseen destiny. He envisages that the people closest to him who believe these predictions are a little bit mad and focusing on fables and faery-stories, however much that he loves these comrades. He still trains with former stablemaster, Gar for reasons he doesn't understand but Corban will not yet even contemplate what the truth could be. We can see that he is growing up to be a very clever, respected and influential individual. People are still awestruck when they see him fight or train with Gar but he doesn't know why. Throughout the tale, more and more different factions become intertwined and infected with his destiny. This book really presents a lot regarding the unity, joy, and comraderies of friendship. Once, a Camlin scene comes to mind, it was slightly unrealistic with his statements regarding his change from hard brutal forest warrior to Corban's kinsman and troop leader essentially. I like the positive sides of people so if a character could change this much and it is for a progressive story reason I will not see it as a negative. Corban also notices these weird things that keep staring and smiling at him. Ladies. Will a love story impact on our heroes destiny? It would not be the first book that such a dilemma had occurred.

Valour is highly focused around three amazing sieges and battles following High King Nathair and his alliance with Rhin in the West of the Banished Lands which is where the majority of this tale frequents. Nathair believes he is the heralded Seren Disglair and has been advised by his Lord that he needs to obtain the seven Giant treasures to save the world from darkness. It is obvious that Gwynne knows his swords, weapons and can create the most amazing battle sequences, arguably some of the best I have read in fantasy. The shield-wall reminds me of the Battle of Red Cliff in China. The warfare is full of unpredictable awesomeness, betrayals, tricks and not forgetting the side who decide to trick the side who just tricked them.

The tale in the East follows the 'Old-Wolf' Maquin, an honourable hero who has somehow failed in keeping all his vows in life thus far. I will not say too much but this side includes brain-washing, fighting pits, degradation and extreme inhumanity.

We analyse the point of views from both sides of the armies, so we know exactly what their opinions represent when certain sequences happens. Such as analysis and proof that enemies have shapeshifting demons amongst the flanks, an undefeatable shield-wall and not forgetting a talking crow, raven and a brutally loyal extreme skin piercing howling Wolven are in the mix.

The ending was unique and as a critic, I have nothing critical to say about it. Instead of the one aforementioned (see my last review) scene to finish off Malice, we have three to "enjoy". I will say that word lightly as like me, you will have no idea what will happen before this novel's conclusion. All three scenes end up with enticing cliff hangers. I have to wait two days until I can afford Ruin and that really annoys me. I was debating on whether I was going to give this book four or five stars. After much deliberation, I decided that the only reason I would rate this four stars is that I think the next book will be better. Valour itself is a five star book so I will not be distracted by how great the extremities are that this saga could reach.

In my mind, and I know Gwynne has a lot of respect for the gentleman, and I do not blame him, but I think this series is superior in consistency, the amount of amazing characters and superb point of views to ASOIAF. I know that is a huge statement. Let me hope my sweeping statement is not premature with two books left to go. From what all my Goodreads friends say, there is no way I will be disappointed. I hate to admit, a couple of errors came through in the novel, I saw two spelling mistakes and a few randomly missed speech-marks. I have a critical eye and these small, very minute issues did not detract from my enjoyment at all.

[Jay H (Hiatus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars✨

The story picks up MUCH faster in this book. Some of the POV characters' opening scenes brought kickass action right from the start, setting us up for truly epic adventures.

John Gwynne clearly doesn’t know what plot armour is because WHY are all my faves dying???!!! There hasn’t been a single W for the good side, and yet I still devoured this like my life depended on it.

Tropes you’ll find in this book:

⇒The chosen one.
⇒The underdog/anti-hero (looking at you, Camlin)
⇒Magical artifacts.
⇒The quest™.
⇒The trusty mentor.
⇒Found family.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is how Gwynne plays with dramatic irony. We’ve got characters who genuinely believe they’re serving the good god, Elyon, only to be unknowingly doing the demon god Asroth’s dirty work. It adds so much complexity and deception, making you want to scream at the characters for being so blind.

The ending!!! oh lord. I just know book three is going to EATTT. I’m not ready, but also, I’m so ready.



SPOILERS ALERT‼️

Now let’s talk characters because… wow.

Veradis – Still a dumbass, but I’m starting to hate him less. That said, WHAT HE DID TO THE GIANT BABIES IS UNFORGIVABLE. Stay away from me, sir.

Corban – What’s not to love? This man has been through too much. Somebody PLEASE give him a break. Protect him at all costs.

Nathair – I had a whole argument about him with my brother (who doesn’t even read books btw!!) My brother thinks Nathair will switch sides once he figures out which side he’s fighting for. I THINK NOT. This man has killed thousands “for the greater good.” He murdered his own father. No redemption arc is coming, and honestly, I think he’d embrace the darkness.

Coralen – Absolute QUEEN. We stan forever.

Cywen – Girl, if I woke up and my family abandoned me, I’d feel the same way too. LOVE YOUUU.

Edana – ALL HAIL THE QUEEN!!!

Evnis – I wanted more of him. I wanted to see him spiral over losing his son and his precious book.

Dath – My heart. I think he’s my favorite character. The moment he told Corban in the first book, At least you have a mother who spoils you, I was SOLD. Protect him at all costs.

Rhin – This old fuck needs to be bitch slapped into another dimension.

Maquin – My BABY.

Camlin – The GOAT. End of story.

Fidele – I felt a sharp pain in my chest just writing her name. OH MY GOD. WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK???!!!




Malice ⇨ 4.0 Stars✨
Valor ⇨ 4.5 Stars✨
Ruin ⇨ 4.5 Stars✨
Wrath ⇨ 5.0 Stars✨




________________
Reading Update:

OH. MY. GOD!!!! I am loving this already!!😍 Hopefully, it stays this good!🙏🏼

[Adina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not particularly like writing reviews of books mid series. I feel lazy and also need to avoid spoilers. So, all I am going to say is that it was good, very good. It’s very well written, dark, action packed, also emotional, characters I like die, but there is hope. On to the next one, I need to know what happens, but I will also take a short break.

[Matt's Fantasy Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the series is even better than the first. This series is a "must read" for any fantasy fan.

It's extremely common for me to score the first book in a series as a "5", and the second one a "4". Something about initial books in a series really captivate me by showing me a new world and letting me explore it during the first book.

But even though I already know this world, Valor delivers in spades. The pace of the book was extremely well done, the stakes felt higher than ever, and the twists all felt appreciated and earned.

This book feels somewhat similar to A Song of Ice and Fire, in that there are many different POVs and the scope of the story feels similar. It's not the same thing in a variety of ways, but I feel like fans of that series will absolutely eat up this one. A core different for me though (and I say this as someone who loves ASOIAF), is that every single POV in this book is interesting. I remember sometimes in ASOIAF I would get to a character POV and want to hurry it up so I can get to the next one, and that's not true in this series.

If the final two books in this series are as good as the first two books, this series will go down as one of the greatest works of fantasy that I have ever read.

Check out my new youtube channel where I show my instant reactions to reading fantasy books seconds after I finish the book.

[Luna. ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 -

''Memory is a double-edged sword, Uthas. It can keep you strong through dark times, but it can also cripple you, keep you locked in a moment that no longer exists.”



Bravo to Mr John Gywnne for writing another fantastic book!

This is what happens when Lord Of The Rings meets Game Of Thrones..

THIS BOOK IS BRUTAL & I LOVE IT



I thought Malice was good.. This book is even better! Shit got real and hectic on page one! I absolutely adored this book and pretty much devoured it, I couldn't take my eyes away every POV chapter ended on a cliff hanger. Like I was ready to fucking combust. This book literally consumed me.
I described this story to a friend as a car crash it is so horrible but you can't stop looking, and by that I don't mean the writing is horrible, nearly everything that happens to the characters I loved was horrible from wars to being tortured. So pretty much just an emotional rollercoaster haha. But in saying that I loved this book, I loved how my favorite characters grew, I pretty much loved everything and yes I LOVED ALL THE GORE & DELICIOUS DEATH. Yummy yummy, keep quenching my bloodthirst John Gywnne.

This book was better then Malice, it is full of action and the prophecy is explained better. We found out who was the champions for good and evil in book 1 and in book 2 the prophecy is explained we find out who true heart is (I was right, yay!) and who the other players in the game are. *gives stink eye to all baddies*
Okay everyone says this book is cliche, well um back the fuck up, it Ain't. Sorry but not sorry I disagree it is NOT CLICHE, yes the plot may not be original but it is the best book I've ever read in regards to a god war.
DID I MENTION I CRIED THE WHOLE TIME READING THIS... Yep I'm a sook..but I had so many feels for the goods guys I just literally wanted to give them all a cuddle and tell them everything would be fine. my emotions consumed me with this one I felt the good guys were my friends lol and I did not want anything bad to happen to them. (Even tho everything bad happened to them) the friendships between the good guys is what relived me from this dark grim fantasy read.

THIS BOOK HURT MY HEART ESPECIALLY THAT ENDING



I love John Gywnnes writing style so much he doesn't spend two pages explaining land scape or what a saddle looks like he is a no bullshit writer and I love that, I still cannot believe these are his first books he is such a fantastic writer it's like he has been writing forever.

I did however not like the fact that I didn't even no what Corban or Cywen looked like until the middle of book two, I was also disappointed to find out Veradis was the opposite to what I imagined, so I think in future the author should describe his characters at the beginning even if it is brief. And that is literally all I didn't like about these books lol.

John Gywnne is very descriptive when it comes to battle scenes and does not hold back. He has shocked and made me cringe on more then one occasion. I personally think the battles in this are better then GoT, but that's just me. Another thing I loved about this book, if your reading a book about war you know it's gonna to be bad and John Gywnne absolutely delivers. Can't wait for book 3&4 I need my precious NOW !



So pretty much to sum up the story..
This happened (beware hectic gif's usage)



& this



& more of this



Then everyone got their witch on



You tamed a wolven?"
"She's not tame!!!"

I need a bottle of wine after this one lol




Ps. Maquin is the stealer of my soul and the reason for my whole existence

[Melissa ♥ Dog/Wolf Lover ♥ Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

More people freaking die, but of course that's to be expected right? I didn't cry though! Yay, me!



And of course I loved the book! ♥



This book starts up where the first book leaves off. Corban and the crew are on the run after the fall of Dun Carreg (where they lived). They sail across the water getting into more troubles, meeting up with new people, more deaths, etc. and so forth.

I loved when the Jehar Warriors came! I was so looking forward to reading about them. I hope to read more in the next book, but PLEASE don't kill anyone I like in that group!

Corban's sister Cywen is still stuck in Dun Carreg with the evil people because they thought she was dead, but she was not. That's not a spoiler, if you read the first book you will figure she is not dead either.

Cywen gets to learn about the evil people that are there, that killed her friends and part of her family. But, she just may have a few on her side. She also has her fathers dog, Buddai on her side and Corban's horse, Shield. I just wish she would have tried to sneak away at night. Like I said before, it all turns out for the good though. And Veradis is there, I'm hoping he will see more reason and something will happen with him and Cywen. I love him, for now at least!

The book is really good if you love epic fantasy books. There is still the God-War going on and I don't see it ending any time soon with all of the prophecies.

I'm afraid to pick up the next book and I'm going to wait a little bit because I'm afraid who or what will die next. NOOOOOO!

MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List

[Samir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though the opinions about Malice, the first book of this series, are divided, I had fun reading it and enjoyed it very much. Slow pacing and a large cast of characters didn’t bother me at all but because I’ve read it a couple a months ago I decided to reread it and refresh my memory, prepare myself for adventures to come. Upon rereading it I realized two things; I loved it even more the second time and my expectations for the rest of the series were raised sky high. A few people told me that if I loved the first book so much, I would simply adore the rest. Well, let me tell you something; that made me anxious. Of course, I wanted it to be true. I hoped Valour would blow me away and surpass its predecessor in each in every way. Every other outcome would mean disappointment. Guess what? I wasn’t disappointed. I was amazed. This book is bloody brilliant!

The story picks up right where the first book ended. Events are bursting throughout the Banished Lands like a flood and affecting everyone’s lives. The ancient prophecy caused a great turmoil and unfolded the main players in this intricate game of powers. Some are in exile, fighting for their lives. Some are gaining more power by forming alliances. Revelations are changing lives and shedding some light on the plans and secret motives of the real puppet masters. Meanwhile, a great threat in the Otherworld is waiting to strike and bring chaos to the mortal world. Sounds fun? It is.

It’s hard to mention something I didn’t like about this book. I would have loved it even more if certain characters suffered horrible deaths but you can’t have it all. I guess seeing them dead later in the series will provide satisfaction and joy. I’m aware I sound like a sadistic maniac or Cersei in male form but some characters really provoked me with their actions and generally being pure evil so I’m looking forward to their demise.

Just like in the first book, the narrative is shifting between numerous POVs and although we continue to follow the main characters, there are side characters (at least they were in the previous book) and a couple of new ones, who got more screen time and their own POV. Maquin is one of those characters and I’m not mentioning him just because of that but because he totally won me over and became one of my favorites. I really enjoyed all of the storylines and it was hard for me to decide which one I enjoyed the most but as I was near the end, there was one which stood out and it was Maquin’s. His story took me on an emphatic and emotional journey which I’ll never forget. Betrayal, grief, fight for survival, fight against becoming something opposite of his beliefs, of his nature. His humanity stripped away and forced to sacrifice himself, driven by vengeance and an oath given in the past, an oath he failed to fulfill. Maquin is an exceptionally well written character and I can’t wait to find out the epilogue of his story.

Having an interesting story and a set of characters I can root for is usually enough for me to enjoy the book but there is one other thing which I enjoy very much and this book had an abundance of it; great action sequences. Battle scenes are gripping, intense, not too graphic but much bloodier than battles from the previous book and I would love to watch them on the big screen. As I read them, I had a feeling like I was right in the middle of them. They felt so real and I swear there were arrows and throwing knives flying towards me from the pages. Luckily, I have reflexes like a wolf so I managed to dodge them. If you thought I wouldn’t mention wolves you couldn’t have been more wrong. How could I not mention Storm, now fully grown and even more protective of Corban. Storm makes me want to go to the woods and befriend a wolf. I love the animal companion trope and I’m very glad Gwynne included it in this story.

I could ramble on about this book even more but I’m just halfway through this epic journey and Ruin is sitting on my desk and silently judging me for not starting it yet. I’m filling my saddlebags with lembas bread and continuing with this adventure.

[Mayim de Vries · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I started reading Valour, the most common reaction was: “I thought you hated Malice!”

I am not sure “hated” is the best word to describe my relationship with Malice (check for yourself), but it is what it is mainly because I expected a masterpiece. Since my expectations suffered and then died a slow and painful way during the previous instalment, reading Valour was OK because I knew I will get a mediocre book.

“Aha! So you still have ISSUES!” you want to exclaim (please, do it for me and pronounce it like Helena Bonham Carter in “King’s Speech”). Indeed, issues I have with this book that among my friends reaped 5-star reviews (with one single exception of 4 *gasp!*), and all continue the old ailments of the first book in the series.

The problem of special snowflake(s) intensifies. We are told now and again how special, different and chosen Corban and Nathair are. The avatars of the divine, the unique ones, they really made me vomit with wonder. And the main problem is not the fact that both of these young men are these things, but that if not for the repeated refrain, the reader would not have guessed this being the case. Ah!, you want to interject, but Corban has, you know, the dreams (he, mostly, does not remember, let me add acerbically) and the encounters with, you know, the spiritual, the otherworldly! That he has, they both do. But this thing only underlines my point here: he is special not by the virtue of his deeds but because of what happens to him and of which he is either unconscious or unwilling participant. The same applies to his dark counterpart.

To be fair, this shortcoming is not limited to the main protagonists. Take Edana. At the beginning we read that Edana is so traumatised by what has happened with her parents and hear realm that she is (and I quote) “not fit to lead the pony”. Later on, she recovers somewhat, but does not develop a personality, cunning, charisma or courage. Throughout the book, she is either led by the other characters or swept by tide of events. The moments when she is given agency that tips the scales or is truly extraordinary are next to none. And yet, at the end we are told that she has (and I quote) “a wise head on her shoulders”. Where is a proof of that? Where can we see a character development similar to that shown by Joe Abercrombie in Half a War with regard to princess Skara? (Hint, hint: nowhere!)

My conclusion is that Mr Gwynne either simply likes telling or that he thinks he is not doing that because all makes perfect sense in his head. Sadly, the reader can deuce how things are not by reading Mr Gwynne’s mind but reading the pages of the book. And what is on those does not speak for itself, instead needs the verbal reinforcement that is not credible at all.

My favourite example is the whole Cywen-related plot. It is so preposterous that I decided fuming with indignation is pointless and instead I read those chapters like a comic relief. The way she behaves, the way she is treated by Nathair and Veradis (in truth the only person who treats her appropriately to the brattiness she espouses is Calidus, oh how I rooted for you old man!), the way she is rescued. My, the whole grand finale surpassed Monty Python with how come the ragtag group managed to sneak upon the whole might of Black Sun, steal the prised possession and then happily escape. I did laugh out loud.

This is related to the problematic female protagonists. Cywen is a prime example, but then we are introduced to Coralen and it turns out that Coralen is Cywen by other name. Another girl grotesque in her propensity to hurt or promise to hurt everyone around (especially men and pretty women as if to prove something). Coralen is an insecure, spiteful creature unable to respond without resorting to violence (even if only verbally).

“Enjoy your victory,” she said with a sneer and walked away.

How cute is that. Wouldn’t you like to be her friend?

We do not have a love triangle (yet) Instead, we have two sets of romantic subplots Veradis-Cywen and Corban-Coralen. Veradis is called the True-Heart in the book, so I assume he will abandon Nathair because in the prophecy it is said that True Heart accompanies one avatar and Black Heart, i.e. Calidus the other. I even hoped that he would do so because of Cywen’s death, sadly she survived. but meeting Coralen made me think this wouldn’t be such a terrible idea after all.

Lines sparking with humour and finesse are still rare. Character development means that Corban’s playing the considerate pacifist in this instalment (as oppose to previous book, where he lived in the land of denial). When something is supposed to happen, it happens regardless of how idiotic the thing objectively is. Lines like (and I quote) “somehow Edana had talked her way into coming”, somehow this happened or that took place are a common feature in this story.

Still, the book has some valour in it. Not all is bad: I like the way the spiritual is brought about in the book, but still majority of the dilemmas strike me as banal and the main question whether or not every human being has a seed of darkness in their soul and how we fight it or why do we yield is not explored. I like how Mr Gwynne writes about family and friendship even if he ventures to the land of cheesy at times. Maquin is the strongest, most complex character, and undoubtedly my favourite. A true fighter, incredibly well written and alone makes the book worth reading. There are good dying scenes and good dying lines.

“I’d rather standard die than see you become the thing we’ve both hated.”

“Sometimes it is not about the winning, it is about how you lose.”

It nearly makes me wish there is more dying around. Maybe in Ruin?
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Other reviews:

Pure Malice
Ruin-ation
Cape Wrath

[Ginger · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALL THE STARS!
Full review up!

Valor starts right off from the ending of Malice and it was outstanding! I would give this 10 stars if I could!

I’m going to try and keep this review as spoiler free as possible, but it will be hard.
I’ll try and keep it vague if you’ve never read the 1st book in the series, Malice.
The Faithful and the Fallen series is a epic fantasy series that involves betrayal, amazing battle scenes and believing in hope against all costs. It's wrote in POV chapters so you'll get into the thoughts of multiple characters as the series progresses.

This second book, Valor has more action, plot twists and evil. The amount of backstabbing and political decisions by Queen Rhin and Jael enraged me.
The prophecy of the Bright Star is explained better in Valor along with all the circumstances of what will happen if darkness wins.

Bravo to John Gwynne for writing another well-written and intense book in this series! And also breaking my heart at times while reading this addition.
Valor was brutal, heartfelt and just keeps getting darker with the circumstances of the Bright Star.
The more this series continues, the more invested you become in the characters. And the battle scenes are fantastic!

Characters:

I just love how Corban’s character arc is being developed along with his sister, Cywen.
If anything happens to Storm, my heart will break and I will throw the book across the room.

I was not expecting to love the character of Maquin as much as I did.
I was cheering him on throughout the whole book!
Those fighting pits though. o.O
Holy fucking gladiator batman!

Camlin is becoming a favorite! I love this guy!

I’m still hoping Veradis will see the light soon, but I don’t know about this character. He’s a grey character and could go either way.

Queen Rhin is evil and terrible and I want her to die.
Bloody thirsty, no?

King Nathair is a piece of work. That's all I will say to avoid spoilers. Ha!

Final thoughts:

If you love epic fantasy with witches, giants, talking crows to woodsmen fighting against the odds, you’ll love this series! I’ve really been impressed with the plot, world building and action that takes place in this series. I am really looking forward to getting to Ruin soon!

[Choko · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** 5 +++ ***

A buddy read with the Fantasy maniacs at BB&B!!! We need to get our revenge on!!!!


Just read it for the second time and I am just as emotionally invested and ruined as I was the first time around! Goodness gravies! Could John have hit any more tender spots in my soul and attacked my adrenaline centers with the last 30% of the book, just so my body would not know to melt or to explode??? This is what happens when a reader gets attached to characters and those same characters are being put in situations which could terminate them permanently, while in the hands of an author who has shown that he is willing to kill anyone of them off!!!! I need a drink and I need a week of light and fluffy silly reads, just so I can reestablish my equilibrium... HR, chick-lit and Smut, here I come...:):):)

"... “This world may be full of greed and tragedy and darkness, but I am fortunate beyond measure to have such people about me.”...."

I saw a very short review one of my GR friends wrote, which pretty much sums the whole experience up, and I quote : "... OMG!!!! omg!!!!OOMMMGGG..." --->>> Well said, Butterfly!!!

I am blown away and I have no idea how to write a review on such work. It is Fantasy, it is Epic and it is Grim at this point... The first book was just an introduction to the characters and the world, it took it easy, lulled us in the belief that all will be good in the world, despite some unfortunate losses on the side of the Good guys... And by Ch. 4, John G. wipes all hope of rainbows and goodness out of our hearts and proceeds with breaking all remaining tendrils of fancy that maybe, somehow, some of the characters we already care for, would find any happiness what so ever... As I said, by Ch. 4 all hope for happiness is lost, by the end of the book, you go through feelings of love, hope, HATRED, HOPELESSNESS, HELPLESSNESS, DESPAIR, DESOLATION, ANGER, NEED FOR REVENGE, AND PURE DISILLUSIONMENT and DISSOLUTENESS.... It is such a roller-coaster of hope and despair, that by the end you feel as if you have lived every battle, every mile of running, every second of terror the characters were involved in...

Corban is the chosen avatar of G-d's champion and he is, I believe, at this time 17 years old. He doesn't believe that pitiful old him could be the chosen of a G-d, so he tries to do his best and ignore the knowledge. Yes, it is the typical simple village-boy-gone-good-turn-hero trope, but it is one most of us love, so don't hate on it!!! His main strength is his loyalty and the loyalty he has from his family and group of friends. He also has a cool horse named Shield and the coolest pet - a Wolfen named Storm, who thinks of Corban as her pack leader:) They are adorable together!!!

Cywen is Corban's sister and she is a tough one, with a stubborn streak, fiery temper, and is extremely protective of the people she loves, Corban most of all... He resents that, since he thinks it makes him look weak in front of others, that his older sister constantly tries to fight his battles for him. I am guessing she is kind of cute, because there are several people whose eye she catches in this volume. Definitely one of my favorite characters.

Along with the brother and sister team come their mother, Gwen, who is fiercely protective of her cubs; Gar, the mysterious warrior who has been with the family since Corban was born; Camlin, a woodsman who is very good with a bow; Corban's friends Dath and Farrel, who are hilarious, a bit pathetic and very loyal!!!; and we can not forget Brina, the healer-which and her talking crow!!! There are several others, including a Queen, but those are the ones whose loss I would be devastated by!

"... I hope you are taking note of this, All-Father. Surely you watch, even if you no longer intervene. All I have done, my whole life, has been in the hope that you watch. That you would notice me...."

There is a character who has been dealing on the opposite side of the bad dudes but has not yet been connected with the main gang of goodies, Maquin, one of the few living Gadrei, whom I am rooting for big time and the story around him is just devastation after devastation... I want something good for this old, grizzled warrior dude!!!

What makes the book as good as it is, is the bad guy who thinks he is the chosen one for the good side... Nathair, the newly crowned high-king of the land... This character is larger then life and full of charisma, with grandiose ambitions and strong belief that the methods matter not, as long as it is done in the name of the "GREATER GOOD"!!! His naivete scares the hell out of me! Hitler, anyone? It is fascinating to watch him blundering in his quest to unite the land under his rule in order to eventually fight "the bad guys"... Nathair has surrounded himself with a group of loyal followers and advisors, all of which with dubious character except one - his First-Sword, Veradis. He is a good, honorable, loyal young man who believes in doing right, but who has given his oath to a person far from deserving it... His struggle under the oath and his belief in right and wrong is amazing and one of the most compelling parts of this story. I can not wait to see how it all comes to an end!!!

While in the previous volume we got to meat our heroes and got a feel for the part they will play in the upcoming battle of Good vs. Evil, this volume was full of action, battles, duels, pit-fights, and more clarity was brought to the delineation of the camps... So, what I am trying to say is, THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING, Y'ALL!!! GO READ IT!!!!

I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always be filled with emotion from the books you read!!!

[Eon Windrunner · Rating 5 out of 5]

What if the Dark Lord's champion thought he was the Chosen One, the savior of all mankind?

This book was amazing!!!

Where to even begin...This story picks up exactly where it left off, but Mr. Gwynne has definitely shifted a gear and picked up the pace, never slowing down and delivering the punches non-stop. I don't want to give anything away, so I will merely say that many of the true identities behind the names listed in Halvor's prophecy are revealed to the reader, if not yet guessed. There are battles, betrayals and valor galore and more than one character crosses the bridge of swords.

The 600 odd pages fly by swiftly as the author treats us to mini cliffhanger's every chapter ("treats" is subjective of course) with tight plot and pacing and wonderful characters that feel fleshed out and real. I'm pretty sure I experienced the full spectrum of emotions as I was reading this and applaud the author for making me care. There truly is such a bevy of great characters, that I could not list them all here. Not to even mention the non-human/giant ones that make this book even better. (Ok, fine. I'm mentioning them. Storm, Fech, Craf - this book would not be the same without you) I did not even think I would be able to feel bad for the Black Sun, but there is a particular scene near the end where I could not help but feel for the guy and also for those caught in his wake...

John Gwynne never tries to re-invent the wheel, and sticks with what we have come to love about fantasy, even though I can see how some readers are going to complain that he has used every trope, cliche etc and has not done much different. You know what? If you write fantasy this good, you don't need to change anything.

Highly recommended. After book one of course ;)

[Hamad · Rating 5 out of 5]

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‘All men feel fear,’ Corban said. ‘Gar told me that. It’s what you do about it – stand or run, fight or give up – that’s what makes you a coward or hero. Without fear there is no courage.’

Malice: ★★★★ 1/4
Valour: ★★★★ 3/4

Most of the books that end up disappointing me do so because they sound good, they have a cool synopsis but their execution is bad. This series is kind of the opposite. The book does not have the most original plot and it has some tropes but it is executed more than perfectly!

I forgot some of the details in Malice especially because of its wide cast of characters. I read a few reviews of Malice to refresh my memories and the glossary and map at the beginning of this book were life-saving! To be honest, I wouldn’t have enjoyed the story as much if we did not have those! When I started this, I just kept going back and forth until everything settled in my brain and then it was a wild ride of the best kind!

The prose is polished and professional! I remember liking the writing in Malice but I even liked this even more. I know many authors write multiple POVs and many authors do have good quotes but not many authors can have this and still make it emotional! Gwynne was one of those rare authors and that’s what made me love it this much.

“Memory is a double-edged sword, Uthas. It can keep you strong through dark times, but it can also cripple you, keep you locked in a moment that no longer exists.”

Regarding the characters, I don’t know if they improved that much or I read this in a good time but it was definitely a step up from book 1 and it was so complex at the beginning! I am telling you all the characters in this book make up for a not so easy read but it is worth putting the effort into! There were many POVs and they were shattered through the world but they merge into a fewer point views later which made it easier to course through! Corban definitely grew so much in this entry and so did everyone around him. We have so many shocking reveals regarding the characters too which was awesome! I like how it is a story of Good Vs Evil and yet it has some grey characters. Each side think they are the right side and their is a lot of manipulation going around which is a trope I like! The evil guys are really smart and I wish we had the POV of Queen Rhin and I have a feeling that we will in the next books.

Storywise, The story continues after the poignant ending of book 1 and we see all the sides moving to prove their dominance and a big war is still brewing! There is a prophecy at the beginning of the book and this is one of my absolute favorite tropes! I already think I have some parts figured out and I am looking forward to see how it all falls into place.

I think it goes without saying after all this praise that the world-building was great too! We get to discover the mythology of the world even more and we get to discover all the different areas shown in the map. I would have preferred to see more about the characters description because it would have made them easier to remember in my visual memory but that’s a really minor thing!

“Don’t punch at all if you can help it, he heard his father’s voice, clear as if he were standing next to him, but if you must, punch first and punch hardest.”

Summary: This was definitely a step up from book 1 and was excellent in all aspects! I have heard a ton of good things about the series and I can see them now! If you like Fantasy and more complex books then you have to read this one! The good news, it gets even better according to my friends!!!

[William Gwynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite having read this so many times, it still blows me away every single time I go through it again. I may be considered biased, but the sheet amount of depth to every character is just outstanding! The rich history, the character dynamics, the way our characters come together, I just love it all!

Truth & Courage

[Holly Hearts Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these characters so so much. I will say I think I found this one slightly slower than the first. Many others mention how Malice is set up while this one begins the actual conflict which I totally see that and agree. There was just a lot of travel time in the first half. So funny how we can experience things differently like this. This is the kind of 4 star rating that makes me want to change every past rating I've ever done because it far exceeds many other reads.

[Bentley ★ Bookbastion.net · Rating 5 out of 5]

See this review and more like it at www.bookbastion.net
_________

Related Reviews:
Book I: Malice ★★★★★

Picking up exactly where Malice, left off, John Gwynne re-enters the epic fantasy foray with a stunning followup to his debut novel that I won't soon forget.

Those who worry about picking up series written by a debut author, have no fear here because the story movement and character building here is just as lovingly crafted by Mr. Gwynne as it was in the first book. Whereas Malice is a bit slower in its delivery as it establishes the world, the characters and their places within it, Valour places its focus on getting that plot up and running, and from page one to the very end the characters are on the move, getting stuff done. There's a real tendency for fantasy to have brief moments of action followed by hundreds of pages of exposition and incredibly slow movement. Here, Gwynne focuses on keeping his plot rolling within constant movement and action scenes instead, giving Valour an almost frenetic pace in keeping with the chaos the characters endure as their world descends into turmoil and death.


Sometimes in fantasy that is told through shifting POV, there is a tendency to repeat information or see the same scenes unfold through various eyes, which I think is one of the traps of multiple perspectives. Gwynne deftly avoids them here, using shifting perspectives to create a finely woven tapestry of tension that lends the reader a better understanding of why things are unfolding the way they are, without boring them along the way.

This entry to the series is darker than its predecessor in tone and content, as much of the world we come to love in the first book descends into war and political machinations. The real heart of the series continues to come from its characters. They are varied and well crafted, each presenting a distinct take on the world and situations unfolding through their unique POV chapters. I love them all, and the ancillary characters that surround them are just as easy to root for. When people are in danger or meet their demise here, it is always devastating and heartbreaking. The threat of my favorite characters being in danger created a very real compulsion for me to keep reading, to find out what was going to happen next.


While some plot points were a little too predictable for my taste, I do think that the overall movement, pace and thematic content present in the story was enough for me to overlook it and continue to enjoy the directions the story headed. Another aspect I particularly enjoy about Gwynne's writing is his ability to describe battle scenes! They are always epic, easy to envision and extremely fast-paced. While some scenes are particularly brutal, Valour places its focus on the horrors of war, rather than glorifying in it.

I'm very excited to see where the series goes next. There's some crazy plot movement in this entry to the series that I can't wait to see built upon in the next book! Wherever the story goes next, I am certain that it will continue to be epic.


★★★★★ = 5/5 stars

[Michael Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 6 stars out of 5. This book gets an extra star solely because of how amazingly well written his female characters are. More on that later.

I really wish I would've had more time throughout the week to have read this beauty! As much as I loved it, I actually think I liked Malice more, for reasons I can't really put my finger on. I think it felt like more was going on in Malice, but I wasn't ever bored while reading this.

I would say that the only complaint I would have with this book is how a lot of the tragedies are pretty predictable. Even though the outcome is predictable, he exectutes those events in a way that I still enjoy them. Well, not enjoy, but you know what I mean. I also got kind of annoyed that every chapter ends with a cliffhanger, but that was only when I had to stop reading and leave for work. It didn't bother me so much while I was reading. I actually like it, then. So take that for what you will.

I really, really love how Gwynne writes his characters. More importantly, his female characters. Most authors tend to write them either too weak or they go completely opposite and write them as the heartless assassin type. Gwynne has managed to write his female characters where they feel like actual people. Crazy, huh? Even his make characters are written in a way where they feel different. These are times where I wish I was better at putting my thoughts into words.

The plot is pretty predictable, but like I said above, his prose and execution more than make up for it. He kills off just enough characters where you don't get frustrated that he's killing all your favorites, but you also get pretty worried anytime there's a battle scene. Which is also something rare; finding that balance.
One thing we do know is if anyone is a parent in this series, they're pretty much dead.

All-in-all, I'm really excited for the next book! Highly recommend this series, as of right now!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Wolven, crows, ravens, hounds....What will it be next?’
I am adoring this series! We hear the story from all POVs and we lurch almost from action scene to action scene. My heart was in my mouth on many occasions. You know people you care about are going to die- it's just a matter of who and how soon.
Despite the dark content, this book manages to make me warm and fuzzy inside too. Corbin has a big heart and the love seems to spread out from him. Camlin and Coralen are just two examples of how people are transformed by his attitudes and simple way of being and living his life.
Then there's the animals.
Again, Gwynn does a superlative job in the animals' portrayal- it could very easily read like some Disney type tale, but it just doesn't. There's a scene near the end where the raven Fech is berating himself which was really moving.
And on to the baddies: Poor Fidele. Boo, Lycos! Horrible. Worst for me were the white wyrms. Nearing the end of the book, I was unable to put the book down, even to eat. But once I started reading the scene with the white wyrms defending the cauldron, I found that in fact, I COULD put the book down until dinner was done!
I almost felt sorry for Nathair towards the end. He has been naive, full of pride and arrogance. I'm fascinated to see how his character will develop from this point forward.
I loved some of the character details. For example, When Corbin is seized by the enemy, his first thought is how upset his mam will be. And I adored the idea of Nathair stomping around on his pet draig, loving the statement it makes about him, when in fact he is trailing the stench of rotten meat and shit around with him!
This book has a philosophy about it. This quote:

‘Memory is a double-edged sword, Uthas. It can keep you strong through dark times, but it can also cripple you, keep you locked in a moment that no longer exists.’
This is very thought-provoking to me because it's so true. It's certainly held me back on many occasions in my life. And it shows how, for me, as well as the characters in this book- our actions come from a certain level of self- mastery- or not as the case may be.
No-one should be in any doubt that this book and series is strongly Recommended!

[Krysta ꕤ · Rating 4 out of 5]

”War's good for business. People get reminded that we're not here forever— they like to enjoy life a little more, make the most of it.”

this book picks up right where Malice left off and is non stop action for the majority of the page time. there’s some reveals on who the “bright star” and “black sun” are, which moved the conflict between the characters and we start to see who falls on what side. Corban, Coralen and Camlin held my interest the most but i also liked Maquin. im not gonna lie and pretend like i have all the different povs down cause i really don’t since there’s seriously like a million. but im enjoying the way things have been playing out and the ending threw me off. i can’t help but be intrigued by Nathair and even Veradis to some extent. it’s impressive how large John Gwynne’s worlds are and the way he lays down these little details that come back later in the story. i think I did like Malice just a little bit more than this one though!

[Haïfa · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd read. Spoiler alert: I cried anyway. Multiple times.
_________________________________

Okay folks. I loved every single thing about this book. It made me cry, it made me swoon, it made me grit my teeth and it tied knots in my stomach. I found nothing to complain about.

"You humans are all the same. Willing to live a lie, any lie, as long as it is prettier than the truth."

While Malice was a long and slow introduction of the characters and of the Banished Lands, its kingdoms, myths and customs, Valour was literally a long journey. A bloody, action-packed and emotionally-charged journey through the dangerous Banished Lands. The story started soon after the last events of Malice and focused once again on Corban's story and development.

The friends he’d made were not like that. He’d finally found a sense of belonging, of doing something right. It probably won’t last, he thought, but while it did, he would not be leaving. Not today.

But again, the story wsn't only about Corban and his friends. Like in Malice, the multiple and short POVs allowed to increase the scope of the tale and keep track of the multitude of other individual storylines taking place all over the land. The plot thickened, the myths becoming reality and I was delighted to see many storylines crossing, interweaving and splitting once again. The Good Vs. Evil trope was still a central theme in this book but the line between good and evil often blurred depending on which side you stood in. Another predominant theme in this series is how "the end justifies the means". I absolutely love to read about how far some characters can go and how much they're willing to sacrifice to reach what they deem ultimately good, or honorable, or simply profitable.

It is for the greater good.

Three particular things I absolutely loved in Valour were:

♡♡♡ The characters : Their development was extremely well done : subtle, realistic and credible. It's only when you reach the end of the book that you realize that they came a very long way indeed from the starting point. All the characters were well fleshed out and their bonds and interactions were larger than life. Either you love them with passion or you hate them with every fiber in your body. Gwynne excels at writing the honorable, the conflicted and the despicable. And all the shades in between. And don't get me started on the absolutely wonderful, fierce, strong and relatable female characters. Well done there Mr. Gwynne! Bravo!


Source: Lawrence Mann http://lawrencemann.deviantart.com/ar...

♡♡♡ The battle and fighting scenes : Stunning! Gwynne undoubtedly knows how to describe battle scenes. Man, I was completely carried away and transported inside the shield wall or atop a besieged fortress or horrified before the fights to the death in the fighting pits. I was so immersed in those scenes, grasped all the details and almost heard the battles cries, the screeching of the dying, the cawing of the crows... Which is amazing because I often have trouble picturing fighting sequences.

♡♡♡ The prophecy : One of the most important elements of the book. The wording of the prophecy was wonderfully mysterious and misleading, since book 1. And I enjoyed discovering the hints dropped by Gwynne along the way.

Conclusion
A solid second book to an addictive and compelling series. Unpredictable story, lots of twists and emotionally taxing moments and an epic journey! I already recommend it to all Fantasy readers.

[Deborah Obida · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is spoiler free for book two, since its almost impossible for me to review this without mentioning the first book, they are tid bits of spoilers from book one, I mentioned names of characters that lived and died so don’t worry about that.

This started just where Malice left off, no time jump. This consist of a lot of battle scenes that was so well depicted, why am I even surprise, the book is titled Valour for a reason. Lots of battle means the loss of characters, so many died and others are stuck in a situation that is slightly better than dying. The friendship, loyalty, family relationship is what I love most about this book, the way those that made it out of Dun Carreg look out for each, their unusual band that consist of men, women, wolven, birds its funny and I love it. Sadly I didn’t get my wish, people I want dead still lives, more evidence of mean fantasy author.

The angels and demons finally made an appearance, I thought the author would drag that to the last book but no he did not, and that battle was epic, angels with wings, that is even cooler than dragons. Another thing that I love about this book is the abundance of great characters, amazing POVs, even the ones I want dead. The author also revealed the dark sun and the bright star and my guesses were correct.

World building and Writing
From the first book we were made aware that the book will have lots of different locations, but more were added here, we get to visit Cambren, Domhain, The Vin Thallum’s island and a host of other which the author did not falter in portraying. The depiction is perfect. The book is written in third person multiple POVs of the characters from the first and some new additional ones like Uthas, Tukul, Fidele, Maquin, Coralen and a host of others.

Characters
The author performed a miracle here cause I was rarely annoyed by any of the characters. Veradis annoyed me a bit but that changed when he voiced out his opinion to Nathair instead of blind followership, I feel so bad for Nathair, whatever will he do now. I hope Veradis don’t abandon him in this cause he trust and love him like crazy.

There is more chance of my mother assassinating me than of Veradis turning against me. Please – outside.’

Corban is still as amazing as ever, he made some decisions that I didn’t agree with but the outcome was worth it, cause if he would have followed blindly they wouldn’t have achieved half of what they did, I hope his loyalty to his friends and family don’t stand in the way of duty cause I doubt things will go this well next time.

Cywen my girl, I love this crazy impulsive girl, She really made good decisions here, even the suicidal ones, her bravery is so admirable.

Coralen is one of the new characters, if you think Cywen is crazy and badass then you haven’t met this girl, she is arrogant which I hope tunes down in the next book.

Maquin just refused to be a pushover, I can already see the danger he will be in the next book, I weep for his enemies, am so glad he is among the good guys.

Camlin is just the guy to have around when you are running, he is an amazing scout and his skills with bow and arrow is enviable, glad he switched sides.

This honour thing, Camlin thought. It has its downside. I’d not think twice about running away. He looked at Edana. Or maybe I would.

Now that I know Alycon better, I actually feel bad for him, I loathe Calidus and all this revelations about him.

I love Dath and Farrell so much, their conversation is just so hilarious, especially this one.

‘You’ll need to get yourself a pet wolven,’ Farrell said to Dath.
She’s not a pet, thought Corban.
‘Like that’s going to happen. How about a crow?’ Dath said. ‘Brina – can I borrow Craf for a while?’
‘Ha,’ said Brina, who was sitting a little further along the table. ‘We all know Craf scares you witless.’
‘He does not,’ Dath said.
Farrell squawked in Dath’s ear and he jumped, then scowled.
‘There’s still hope for us, Dath. Not all of the lasses smile at Corban, anyway,’ Farrell said. ‘Coralen doesn’t.’
‘Now, I am scared of her. I think she actually tried to kill you in the practice court today, Ban,’ Dath said.

Finally Gwenith and Gar, so glad Corban has them, I love Halion, Marrock, even Vonn, I actually feel bad for him.

[Anna [Bran. San. Stan] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa. What an amazing book! I can now see why many people list this series as one of their favorites. I had high hopes for this second book after the final 200 pages of book 1 had left me breathless - and I was right to have had those hopes. I can't believe I almost quit on Malice at some point; to think that now I can't wait to dive into the next installment! I don't have a review in me at the moment; this book has left me virtually speechless.

Onward!

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review now posted! Original review can be found on Booknest.

“Two born of blood, dust and ashes shall champion the Choices,
the Darkness and the Light.”

Valor (or Valour, depending on which copy you end up with) is book two of The Faithful and the Fallen and sequel to Malice. While I thought that Malice was an absolutely incredible debut, Valor did nothing but improve upon an already fantastic story. There have been many comparisons between this series and Martin’s A Game of ThronesA Game of Thrones, and I completely see where these comparisons come from. But The Faithful and the Fallen seems like a much more hopeful and emotionally compelling story than A Song of Ice and Fire, and I believe that one day it will rise above these comparisons and stand firmly on its own as a classic of the genre.

Everything I loved about Malice was improved upon in Valor. The relationships, be they between friends or family or humans and their animals, were handled with finesse, and their growth was completely believable. I have never in my life been so attached to literary animals, and they are many and prevalent in this book. I’m especially attached to Fech, though I love them all. There is a sense of camaraderie in this series that is completely unique. There isn’t the sass present in the Gentleman Bastards series or in Sanderson’s books, but there is a deep closeness between family and friend both human and animal that I’ve never experienced in any other fantasy series.

“This world may be full of greed and tragedy and darkness, but I am fortunate beyond measure to have such people around me.”

And yet, in spite of this closeness, no one is safe. People die. Often. And because their attachments to their groups are so emphasized, their loss is felt more keenly than in many other books I’ve read. Every death is mourned, both by the characters left behind and by myself as a reader. (Because of the unavoidable death, I’ve decided not to mention any characters by name. Except Fech. I couldn’t help myself there.)

“Memory is a double-edged sword. It can keep you strong through dark times, but it can also cripple you, keep you locked in a moment that no longer exists.”

Something else I really love about this series is the overarching religious and supernatural elements of the war being waged. Spiritual warfare has always fascinated me, and some of my favorite books are Christian fantasies where spiritual warfare is the focus. Gwynne has handled this aspect of his series incredibly well. There is no preachiness here. The spiritual part of the war is presented as matter-of-factly as the rest of the war. And in no way does Gwynne seem to be expressing his own views on religion through his work. It was lovingly and respectfully handled without any aim to proselytize or tear down the beliefs of others, and I appreciate this immensely.

On to the warfare itself. War has erupted across the land, the smaller pockets we saw in the first book spreading far and wide. And the descriptions of the battles never bored me. Which is one of the biggest compliments I can pay this book. No matter how well written, I almost always get bogged down in books where warfare and battles are such a large part of the narrative. Not so with this series. Gwynne’s descriptions of the battles taking place were completely enthralling. The combat always felt close and personal, even in the presence of new, less than honorable techniques.

The world itself also feels close and personal. With Westeros and the lands beyond it in A Song of Ice and Fire, I often felt lost. I never feel lost here in the Banished Lands. They feel tighter, if that makes sense. I never forget where I am. At least, I never forget where I am in the book. Because I often forgot where I physically was while reading. This series is absorbing and moving and incredibly well-written, so while I am only halfway through, I have absolutely no qualms about recommending it to any and everyone.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stunning. One of the best fantasy novels that I've read. I thought "Malice" was fantastic but this book just upped the stakes

This is quickly becoming one of my favourite series

Now onto book 3

[Orient · Rating 5 out of 5]

After Malice I didn't know what to expect from Mr. Gwynne. Book one was some kind of peculiar and I felt unhooked while reading the first part of it. Book two is way more different, I loved it from the very start till the very end. Wow, just wow, the adventures, intrigues, fighting, friendships, loves, secrets, betrayals, lots of action and suspense... This book just left me mindblown and def wanting for more!



My total fave obviously stays



*sending million of hugs to Storm*

Also the characters I became to love from book one. It was great seeing them evolve, become more mature, gain depth. Some staying true, a lot experiencing the cruelty of life, some turning villain (aww what a heartbreak).



I loved following the characters, not just the goodies, the baddies too. The new ones were an awesome addition. I just loved Coralen! To my sadness, many goodies died, I was just shocked as I let only Mr. Erikson kill my faves, but I guess, I'll let Mr. Gwynne do it, too as damn but he's awesome <3

[ChopinFC · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars (Phenomenal)

You known the feeling when you're reading a book that is so good, that you immerse yourself completely into the story and you never want it to end?

Valor is that incredible of a book!!

John Gwynne has catapulted from a very good fantasy writer, to my top 5 fantasy authors just like that! The writing, the prose, the characters are so well written- that at times I slowed myself deliberately to make the story last a little longer, hehe.

We pick up the action immediately after the events of 'Malice', where kingdoms are in complete disarray, and multiple betrayals and wars have ensued amongst the banished land. The end result is a dissonant and grim environment where death and savagery are the driving forces. There's a clear delineation of good vs. evil, as Corban surfaces as the chosen 'Bright Star' to fight the evil champion of 'Asroth' the nefarious God.

The plot and characterization are even better than the first book! We see fostered relationships grow stronger, and love or hatred between characters rise and fall in a dynamic interplay. Corban's sister, 'Cywen', has been 'taken' by the evil forces of Asroth- and we see an incredible journey of rescue take place. It was so cool, as Valor reads much like 'The Two Towers'(Lord of the Rings), where Aragorn and his band go after the 2 hobbies kidnapped! Corban and his band are so well developed- that each character ( whether human of animal) adds to the cohesiveness of the group.

Gwynne is very adept at writing animals into the story. Corban's wolf 'Storm' and eventually his immaculate horse are incredibly important to the sense of 'family' and trustworthiness. Even a a talking crow and a raven play a key role into the narrative, and add much fun and aid to Corban's group! In essence the 2 bands that develop are marred by hatred and mistrust or trust and friendship.



Corban and his wolven Snow


“This world may be full of greed and tragedy and darkness, but I am fortunate beyond measure to have such people about me.”
― John Gwynne, Valour


“You can tell much about a man by the company he keeps, by his friends, and his enemies,”
― John Gwynne, Malice

The action scenes are vast and organically placed in the story- adding much to the grandness of this tale. Gwynne writes the shit out of action scenes, and 'the calm before the storm' could not be more overly stated in his narrative. One moment everything is quiet, and a band of soldiers/people are in the forest traveling peacefully.... next all shit hits the fan, and arrows are flying, Giants appear swinging massive hammers, wolves come attacking and sword fights are intricately plotted!



the storm after the calm


Overall Valor has catapulted into my 'favorite' of all time list, with incredible storytelling, characterization and action. Ultimately is the emotional bond we form for recurring characters that leads me so pschyed about continuing this journey!

5 Stars!!

[Graig Sauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED the Maquin arc in this book!

[Zala · Rating 4 out of 5]

Valour was a very enjoyable read. Starting right where the prequel left off, it sets a much faster pace, and I really liked the journey aspect of it.

"Maquin staggered back a few steps, dropped the knife and sank to the ground. He put his head in his hands and wept."

A lot more is revealed about the Bright Star and the Black Sun though Corban refuses to accept it for most of the book. It was nice to see the familiar characters grow closer (especially Camlin finding his reason to stay with them) as well as new character dynamics between characters from different parts of the map meeting for the first time. The detail that was put into syncing the timeframe of all the different povs was impressive.

(Below be spoilers)

"Thought this was her wedding day.
The three of them fell to the ground, weapons spinning away, Fidele's fingers tearing at Lykos' face, ripping bloody streaks across his cheeks.
"You control me no longer," she spat at him.
Not a happy marriage, then."

The storyline that I ended up liking the most was Maquin's. It was raw and emotional and made me feel for him, Orgull, and Fidele. And hate Lykos. The bond between the last of the Gadrai was touching and the gritty fighting in close quarters was more to my liking than the pull up shield, stab stab stab, go back in the row, back to the front, stab stab stab on Veradis' side.

In Corban's storyline, I enjoyed the part where they fled to Domhain and the events there but not so much the ending of the book. Why did they have to go to another far away place in the last 100 pages and casually meet Asroth on the way? Why did Fech stay with Edana? And of course, the very end, which is the only thing that truly disappointed me because they went into a dangerous situation with no plan and it turned out about as ridiculous as a scene from Monty Python (plus a very sad but unnecessary death).

"And what of mercy, even to an enemy? He thought."

That aside, I love how Corban is growing up. He's learning about the harshness of the world, yet still believing in goodness and asking important questions. Except "who are you?" Don't ever ask that again, Corban, I beg of you.

Asroth: *exists*
Corban: Who are you?
Meical: *exists in the otherworld*
Corban: Who are you?
Meical: *exists in the mortal world*
Corban: Who are you?
Calidus: *about to murder Corban*
Corban: W h o  a r e  y o u?

Brina was right when she told you your questions would get you into trouble one day...

And speaking of Brina. Corban has been learning more about caring for the wounded from her, and while not pleasant to read about, these scenes were very much appreciated since they made the story more realistic. Though, of course, all faceless characters, even if more experienced, fall like wheat before Corban and his friends at this point.

I also liked Corban's idea with the wolf pelts and that he was being strategic for once (which is something the good guys in this series often lack). Similarly, Veradis had some ideas to improve the shield wall after seeing more of his comrades die. At this point he thinks to himself how horrible all that killing is but at least it's for a good cause, which made me interested to see his reaction when he realizes which side he's on. I liked Veradis a good deal more in this book than the previous. Though I wish he had more interactions with Nathair (or others).

"I have spent two score years laying plans, finding people that I trust, preparing for these days," Meical said. "And yet now I feel like a chicken chopped for the table." He gave Tukul a rueful smile.
"Asroth has been making plans, too," Tukul said.

Meanwhile, the bad guys talk a lot. Persuasion and schemes are but two of the weapons the bad guys can wield exceptionally well. A shame the good guys can't do the same; there were many instances where I felt a lack of elaborate scheming on the side we're rooting for and, while I'm all about supporting the underdog, said underdog should at least try convincingly. I also love a bit of mystery in any book, and unfortunately, there's barely anything left for us to figure out here.

"We have encountered a strong resistance, my lord," the warrior said as he bowed.
Jael waved a hand. "Take more men and crush it."
"It, it's not so easy," the man said, looking uncomfortable.
"How many," Jael snapped, eyes still on Gerda.
"Two, my lord." That got his attention. "They have barricaded the corridor."
"With what?"
"Our dead."

John Gwynne's writing is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's simple and to the point, resulting in some movie-in-your-mind scenes; on the other hand, it lacks the beautiful prose that helps enrich any story and limits the characters with a lack of thoughts in favor of reactions to what's happening around them. Having more inner monologs is one of the reasons my other favorite storyline is Camlin's. On that note, let's pray for Halion because I automatically assume the worst when something happens in this series.

"Am I hearing correctly?" she said. "Did he just call himself the Bright Star, avatar of Elyon?"
"He did," Uthas confirmed.
"Is he mad, or deluded?" she said.
Uthas shrugged. "Perhaps both."

I also liked that there was more humor in the dialogue of Valour than that of Malice, which wasn't too hard considering Malice had none.

Another new addition was the romance, or rather, small pair-ups that suggest romance in the future. Out of the two, one (Veradis and Cywen) was simply a small bud and complicated matters, and the other (Coralen and Corban) was a bit random. I loved Cywen's povs, her cunning and emotion (though maybe a bit too thoughtless sometimes, like the attack on Morcant, which should have gotten her into trouble). Her pov also gave us more time with Alcyon, who I came to like a lot throughout the course of the book.