A Tide of Black Steel

By: Anthony Ryan

Narrated by: Steven Brand

From the international bestselling author Anthony Ryan comes the spectacular first novel in a new epic new fantasy trilogy inspired by Norse mythology.

A new age has dawned. An age of blood and steel. An age of wrath.

The land of Ascarlia, a fabled realm of bloodied steel and epic sagas, has been ruled by the Sister Queens for centuries. No one has dared question their rule.

Until now.

Whispers speak of longships of mysterious tattooed warriors, sailing under the banners of a murderous cult of oath-breakers long thought extinct. A tide of black steel that threatens to vanquish all in its path.

Thera of the Blackspear, favored servant of the Sister Queens, is ordered to uncover the truth. As Thera sails north, her reviled brother, Felnir, sets out on his own adventure. He hopes to find the Vault of the Altvar – the treasure room of the gods – and win the Sister Queens’ favor at his sister’s expense.

Both siblings – along with a brilliant young scribe and a prisoner with a terrifying, primal power – will play a part in the coming storm.

The Age of Wrath has begun.

Critic reviews

“Gritty and well-drawn, this makes a rich treat for George R.R. Martin fans.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review) on The Pariah

"A gritty, heart-pounding tale of betrayal and bloody vengeance. I loved every single word."—John Gwynne

"A master storyteller."—Mark Lawrence

"Ryan again showcases his gift for epic fantasy in his excellent sequel to The Pariah . . . . Ryan’s evocative prose enhances the suspenseful, intricate story, and the cliffhanger ending will have fans counting the days until the next volume. This fires on all cylinders."—Publishers Weekly (starred review) on The Martyr

"Fans of broadscale epic fantasy along the lines of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series and George R. R. Martin's Song of Ice and Fire novels should find this debut much to their liking."—Library Journal on Blood Song

"[A] masterful conclusion ... Ryan’s thoughtful characterizations and complex plotting are on clear display, enhanced by his evocative prose. This sends the series out on a high note."—Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) on The Traitor

"[Blood Song] certainly has it all: great coming-of-age tale, compelling character and a fast-paced plot. If [Ryan's] first book is any indication of things to come, then all fantasy readers should rejoice."—Michael J. Sullivan on Blood Song

"Ryan hits all the high notes of epic fantasy--a gritty setting, ancient magics, ruthless intrigue, divided loyalties and bloody action."—Publishers Weekly on Blood Song

"Readers who enjoy their fantasy fast and furious will find Ryan's latest to be an immensely satisfying, top-notch adventure fantasy."—Kirkus on Wolf's Call

"Robin Hobb meets Joe Abercrombie in a story that delivers so many gut-wrenching blows. This is fantasy with a totally legendary feel; it's epic in every regard."—Fantasy Book Review on The Wolf's Call

"[A] thrilling deep dive into fantasy warfare."—Publishers Weekly on The Wolf's Call

cool story horrible narration

Story was pretty awesome but the narrator reads in monotone and didn't change his voice for any of the characters. Really lazy work. impossible to differentiate between characters.

Bad narration

Couldn’t keep up with the story with the dull narration. After 3 hours listening decided I will have to pick up the physical copy of this book in order to finish.

Likeable Characters, Story, and Fast paced.

This story has gory battle, mystery, and excellent characters. I personally liked how each chapter switched to one of the 4 main characters and it revolved. I was never bored and plenty of action or mystery to keep engagement. I can't wait for the rest of the trilogy.

Ended up really liking it.

It was hard to keep track of characters at the beginning but as it went some things are explained and eventually I got it all straight.

Another great story from one of the best

Well worth your time and a credit. You won't be disappointed if you're a fan of his work.