The Shadow of the Gods (The Bloodsworn Trilogy, 1)

"A masterfully crafted, brutally compelling Norse-inspired epic." --Anthony Ryan, author of The Pariah

THE GREATEST SAGAS ARE WRITTEN IN BLOOD.

A century has passed since the gods fought and drove themselves to extinction. Now only their bones remain, promising great power to those brave enough to seek them out.

As whispers of war echo across the land of Vigrid, fate follows in the footsteps of three warriors: a huntress on a dangerous quest, a noblewoman pursuing battle fame, and a thrall seeking vengeance among the mercenaries known as the Bloodsworn.

All three will shape the fate of the world as it once more falls under the shadow of the gods.

Set in a brand-new, Norse-inspired world, and packed with myth, magic, and vengeance, The Shadow of the Gods begins an epic new fantasy saga from bestselling author John Gwynne. The story continues in book two, The Hunger of the Gods, available now!
LOOK OUT FOR THE DELUXE LIMITED HARDCOVER EDITION OF THE SHADOW OF THE GODS―featuring stenciled sprayed edges, a new introduction from the author, a foil stamped case, and custom endpapers. Only available on a limited first print run while supplies last.

For more from John Gwynne, check out:

The Bloodsworn
The Shadow of the Gods
The Hunger of the Gods
The Fury of the Gods

Of Blood and Bone
A Time of Dread
A Time of Blood
A Time of Courage

The Faithful and the Fallen
Malice
Valor
Ruin
Wrath

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Published May 4, 2021

528 pages

Average rating: 7.36

85 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Danisha
Jul 01, 2025
8/10 stars
This book was an addictive read, I found it hard to put down and carry on with my day. I really enjoyed John Gwynne’s writing style, especially his descriptive moments. The way he weaves emotion and imagery together crafting vivid visuals—from the chaos of battles and the imaginative, fearsome creatures of this world, to the smallest mannerisms and quiet/loud shifts in emotions. I could write soo much more about The Shadow of the Gods but who knows how long that could go on for—but, The characters are compelling, and the hints of a deeper magic system are intriguing—However, it’s the entangled bonds of kinship and the weight of shared blood that give this world its core for me. And because of this I’m very invested in where all their paths will lead them to next.
R SM
Jun 06, 2025
8/10 stars
Great epic saga!

4 ⭐️.

Mr. Gywnne took extensive liberty on using thought-cage and brynja to the point where it was so excessive and totally unnecessary. It became almost distracting in certain passages. At some point I began to count the amount of times he either.

Per kindle

Brynja: 66x’s
Thought-cage: 70x’s

With that being said, I still recommend this book!
BlurbsByBrunna
May 24, 2025
9/10 stars
4.5
Sulyr85
May 19, 2025
10/10 stars
Loved it!!! Will continue the series!
Ellerbee
Mar 03, 2025
7/10 stars
Deeply rich characters all working toward survival in Viking type times. Life is hard, turbulent, and filled with uncertainty. Trust, friendship, and a sense of belonging lead the way for this riveting story.

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