A Tide of Black Steel

In the enchanting yet brutal land of Ascarlia, a realm steeped in legend and dominated by tales of heroic endeavours, the Sister Queens have reigned supreme for generations. Their governance has never been questioned, not until an ominous herald of change threatens their unchallenged authority. Shadows whisper of longships crewed by enigmatic, tattooed warriors, harbingers of a cult once believed to be eradicated. These oath-breakers carry the emblem of black steel, a menace poised to engulf everything in its shadowy wake.

The spotlight shines on Thera of the Blackspear, a trusted and gifted servant of the Sister Queens. Tasked with unveiling the truth behind the rumours, she sets out on a perilous journey north. Meanwhile, her estranged brother, Felnir, embarks on his own quest. Driven by ambition to earn the Sister Queens' favour, he seeks the legendary Vault of the Altvar, purported to house the idols of the gods themselves—an endeavour that could eclipse Thera's efforts.

As their paths diverge, both siblings are joined by an unlikely ensemble: a brilliant young scribe whose intellect may hold the key to their success, and a prisoner with an unworldly, raw power that instils fear and awe in equal measure. Together, their intertwined destinies will shape the course of the coming tempest as the Age of Wrath unfurls its dark tendrils across the land.

A Tide of Black Steel marks the inception of a new blockbuster epic fantasy series from celebrated international bestselling author Anthony Ryan. Known for his masterful world-building and complex characters, Ryan has captivated audiences worldwide, selling more than a million copies of his books. This mesmerising tale promises an exhilarating plunge into a world of intrigue, vengeance, and ancient horror.

'A gritty, heart-pounding tale of betrayal and bloody vengeance' - John Gwynne

'The Pariah is Anthony Ryan at his best. A fast-paced, brutal fantasy novel with larger-than-life characters and a plot full of intrigue and suspense' - Grimdark Magazine

'This is Anthony Ryan's best book yet' - Michael Fletcher

'Fantastic writing, an amazing world, a plot that won't quit, and an unforgettable character . . . Anthony Ryan is one of the best epic fantasy authors out there' - Bookworm Blues

'Gritty and well-drawn, this makes a rich treat for George R. R. Martin fans' - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Books by Anthony Ryan:

Raven's Shadow

Blood Song

Tower Lord

Queen of Fire

Raven's Blade

The Wolf's Call

The Black Song

Draconis Memoria

The Waking Fire

The Legion of Flame

The Empire of Ashes

The Covenant of Steel

The Pariah

The Martyr

The Traitor

Writing as A. J. Ryan

Red River Seven