The Winds of War by Mosha Winter
Blurb:
THESE THREADS ARE SOAKED IN BLOOD.
The Astaris Empire is fracturing, its realm flogged by war and fanaticism. Empress Seline and her Gold Council vie to maintain control, but what is control for a nation built on blood and lies?
In the east, the storied Rhaavi people cling to their independence, but as the ruinous First Legion of the Empire arrives at their walls, hope is decimated. Even so, Yuei, the dragonrider, and Rizu, the shadow guardian, will lay down their lives to protect their home. And Kirana, High Chieftainess of the Rhaavi, vows to lead her people through . . . no matter the cost.
Elsewhere, the prodigious Hatsun pursues an education at the fabled Great Library of the Awakened. But he quickly learns that curiosity is both a boon and a burden as his studies unveil cataclysmic secrets about the world that could change everything.
This book marks the first chapter of The Tapestry of the Tarnished. Here is a tale spanning the whole of the Ring: A circle of continents rife with war and unrest. A world colored by magics and mythical creatures. A place you will fear, yet not wish to leave.
George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire meets Steven Erikson’s The Malazan Book of the Fallen in this burgeoning epic fantasy saga.
Review:
Born in Fury proved to be a promising start to the Tapestry of the Tarnished. It was a dark and epic fantasy story full of intricate world-building and distinct characters. Winter’s ability to craft a vivid tale that pulls you in and keeps you gripped throughout was what had me excited to see his journey as an author progress. With The Winds of War, Winter has managed to refine his craft while expanding the scope of his epic fantasy to remarkable heights.
One of the most interesting qualities of Winter’s writing has been his ability to blend traditional and modern elements in a way that seems fresh and relevant but also reminds me of older, more formative series from my youth. And while the tone of his stories can be dark and emotional, with the stakes as high as they can be, I find the balance of hopefulness and dread to be quite satisfying.
Those who appreciate extensive world-building will find much to enjoy in this book. The lore is deep, the cultures distinct and unique, and the magic is introduced in a way that intrigues me to no end. While it incorporates various earthly and mystical elements, there are also consequences to its misuse. The entire concept of “weaving” is always a joy to experience on the page.
As a character-driven reader, however, the true joy was being reunited with certain characters—as well as being introduced to new and interesting ones. The Rhaavi’s harrowing ordeals are far from over, and new factions have thrust themselves into the mix during a time of political and economic turmoil. Meanwhile, a young man from a disgraced family finds himself on the ultimate coming-of-age quest, and another young man is sent far from his home to deal with trials of a much different nature. In fact, Hatsun’s POV chapters were among the most enjoyable moments for me. The events that occurred within the academy, not to mention the startling revelation near the end, had me hooked and eager to learn more.
The Winds of War is a fantastic work of dark and epic fantasy that combines many familiar and unique elements into an immersive, gripping experience. Fans of George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie will find much to enjoy. It’s full of tragedy, betrayal, gruesome brutality, and intimate moments of humanity that remind us of what matters most. There is a strong sense of passion for the fantasy genre that is evident throughout the novel, and Winter has left us with much anticipation for things to come in future installments.
