Anthony Ryan

Anthony Ryan is a British fantasy author best known for his Raven's Shadow trilogy and Draconis Memoria series. His debut novel, Blood Song, was initially self-published in 2011 before being acquired by Penguin Books, leading to significant commercial success and critical acclaim. Ryan's writing is characterized by detailed military fantasy, complex political intrigue, and magic systems grounded in clearly defined rules. His work frequently explores themes of warfare, loyalty, and the impact of religious beliefs on society. A former researcher in the UK civil service, Ryan transitioned to full-time writing following the success of his Raven's Shadow series. His subsequent works include the Slab City Blues science fiction novellas and the Raven's Blade duology, which returns to the world of his original trilogy. Ryan continues to produce both epic fantasy and science fiction, with his more recent works including The Covenant of Steel series beginning with The Pariah in 2021. He maintains an active publishing schedule while residing in London.

Readers consistently rate Blood Song (first book in Raven's Shadow) highest among Ryan's works, with many citing its military training sequences and character development as strengths. The book holds 4.45/5 on Goodreads from 84,000+ ratings. Readers praise: - Detailed combat scenes and military tactics - Character progression, particularly in Blood Song - Complex magic systems with clear rules - First-person narrative style in Blood Song - Pacing and tension in action sequences Common criticisms: - Quality decline in later Raven's Shadow books - Multiple POV switches in sequels - Uneven pacing in newer series - Romance subplots feel forced - World-building sometimes lacks depth Review data: Goodreads averages: - Blood Song: 4.45/5 - Tower Lord: 4.16/5 - Queen of Fire: 3.84/5 - The Pariah: 4.23/5 - The Black Song: 4.31/5 Amazon ratings average 4.3-4.6 across series, with Blood Song maintaining highest reader scores. Multiple reviewers note they discovered Ryan through Blood Song's initial self-published release.

Blood Song - A warrior-monk trained from childhood in the Sixth Order discovers his role in an ancient prophecy while serving his realm through conquest and battle.

Tower Lord - The second book in the Raven's Shadow series follows multiple characters across the realm as they confront invading forces and uncover magical mysteries.

Queen of Fire - The Raven's Shadow trilogy concludes as Vaelin Al Sorna and his allies face the ultimate threat to their civilization.

The Waking Fire - In an industrial society powered by dragon blood, three individuals navigate corporate espionage, exploration, and warfare in a quest to find a legendary drake.

The Legion of Flame - The second Draconis Memoria book follows the protagonists as they confront a growing empire of mind-controlled slaves and their dragon masters.

The Empire of Ashes - The Draconis Memoria trilogy concludes with a final conflict between humanity and the White drake's forces.

A Pilgrimage of Swords - A group of travelers crosses a post-apocalyptic wasteland seeking answers from a mysterious demigod.

The Black Song - The second book in the Raven's Blade duology depicts a continued struggle against invading forces with supernatural powers.

The Pariah - An outlaw's son uses his skills in deception and violence to survive in a medieval kingdom while uncovering dark conspiracies.

The Martyr - The second book in the Covenant of Steel series follows Alwyn Scribe's continued rise through medieval political and military circles.

The Wolf's Call - A legendary warrior returns from self-imposed exile to defend his homeland against a powerful invasion force.

Brandon Sanderson writes multi-book epics with detailed magic systems and military conflicts. His work includes complex political intrigue and character development similar to Ryan's style in Blood Song.

John Gwynne focuses on warrior cultures and battle-centered storylines with strong character bonds. His Faithful and the Fallen series contains themes of loyalty and betrayal that parallel Ryan's work.

Brian McClellan combines military fantasy with gunpowder-era technology and magic users. His Powder Mage trilogy features military commanders and strategic warfare comparable to Ryan's military-focused narratives.

Django Wexler creates military fantasy with detailed combat sequences and political maneuvering. His Shadow Campaigns series shares Ryan's emphasis on military hierarchy and strategic warfare.

Miles Cameron writes fantasy with historically accurate medieval combat and military organization. His Traitor Son Cycle contains similar elements to Ryan's work regarding military training and warrior brotherhoods.