Di oscurità e luce

The story follows multiple POVs, with Calen Bryer, a young Draleid bonded to the ice-white dragon Valerys, at its heart. His journey is gripping, marked by intense emotional stakes and a humble reluctance to embrace his growing legend, which makes him a compelling protagonist. The separation of the core trio—Calen, Dann, and Rist—allows for rich character development, as each faces unique trials. Ella, Calen’s sister, and her wolfpine Faenir add a quieter but equally compelling thread, while new characters like Dayne and the morally complex Farda bring fresh depth and intrigue. The dragon-rider bond, especially between Calen and Valerys, is a standout, blending raw emotion and epic stakes that rival the best in the genre.Cahill’s prose is sharper and more confident here, balancing cinematic action with poignant moments that hit hard—some scenes will leave you wrecked. The world-building is exceptional, peeling back layers of Epheria’s history, cultures, and magic system (the Spark) without ever feeling bloated. While some critique the length, particularly in the middle chapters, the payoff is worth it, culminating in a cliffhanger that leaves you desperate for Of War and Ruin. Comparisons to The Wheel of Time and The Faithful and the Fallen are apt, but Cahill carves his own path with a modern voice and a knack for blending grit with hope.

How is this just his second book? How could I ask for more and it's 900 pages? How is it I don't know what to now do, read,watch,hold a conversation that has nothing to do with this book/ world? I had the pleasure of binging this series and I have no words let's just say this filled the void of The Faithful and the Fallen by John Gwynne and those are some big shoes. Ryan Cahill has me in a chokehold for 4 days that's how long it took me to read all of his published works but I wouldn't have it any other way.The world he crafted, the character dynamics, the way he choose to weave this story is just masterful. The themes of family,love ,betrayal and revenge were established beautifully. I'm waiting on pins and needles for the next installment of this epic tale. 5/5