The Pariah: Book One of the Covenant of Steel

Anthony Ryan

Aug 2021 · Hachette UK

About this ebook

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

The Pariah begins a new epic fantasy series of action, intrigue and magic from Anthony Ryan, a master storyteller who has taken the fantasy world by storm.

Born into the troubled kingdom of Albermaine, Alwyn Scribe is raised as an outlaw. Quick of wit and deft with a blade, Alwyn is content with the freedom of the woods and the comradeship of his fellow thieves. But an act of betrayal sets him on a new path - one of blood and vengeance, which eventually leads him to a soldier's life in the king's army.

Fighting under the command of Lady Evadine Courlain, a noblewoman beset by visions of a demonic apocalypse, Alwyn must survive war and the deadly intrigues of the nobility if he hopes to claim his vengeance. But as dark forces, both human and arcane, gather to oppose Evadine's rise, Alwyn faces a choice: can he be a warrior, or will he always be an outlaw?

'The Pariah is Anthony Ryan at his best. A fast-paced, brutal fantasy novel with larger-than-life characters and a plot full of intrigue and suspense' Grimdark Magazine

'This is Anthony Ryan's best book yet' Michael Fletcher

'Fantastic writing, an amazing world, a plot that won't quit, and an unforgettable character . . . Anthony Ryan is one of the best epic fantasy authors out there' Bookworm Blues

'Gritty and well-drawn, this makes a rich treat for George R. R. Martin fans' Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Books by Anthony Ryan

Raven's Shadow
Blood Song
Tower Lord
Queen of Fire

Raven's Blade
The Wolf's Call
The Black Song

Draconis Memoria
The Waking Fire
The Legion of Flame
The Empire of Ashes

The Covenant of Steel
The Pariah
The Martyr
The Traitor

Writing as A. J. Ryan

Red River Seven

Ratings and reviews

What a wonderful book. I particularly like the detail of battle preparations, the nerves and the trained responses to commands. It is so easy to relate to. It is so well researched and portrayed for our enjoyment. Deep characters, conscience-based decisions, plot revelations, a twist here and there. I honestly couldn't put it down. Thank you for the book. I look forward to the next in the series.

Absolutely amazing!!! Can't wait for the next books!

another classic story engrossing from start to finish

About the author

Anthony Ryan lives in London and is the New York Times bestselling author of the Raven's Shadow and Draconis Memoria series. He previously worked in a variety of roles for the UK government, but now writes full time. His interests include art, science and the unending quest for the perfect pint of real ale.