The Pariah

By Anthony Ryan,

Book cover of The Pariah

Book description

'A gritty, heart-pounding tale of betrayal and bloody vengeance' John Gwynne

When the task is a killing, be quick and make sure of it.

Torment is an indulgence.

Save it for only the most deserving.

Born in the troubled kingdom of Albermaine, Alwyn Scribe is raised as an outlaw. Quick…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked The Pariah as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

The Pariah features a protagonist, Alwyn Scribe, with such a distinct voice and motivations you cannot help being captivated by him. Ryan is also incredibly gifted at making the medieval fantasy setting feel grounded and real.

The plot is twisty, taking Alwyn through transformations that are incredible, yet believable every step of the way. And when we are swept into the greater plot and war, its version of the Joan of Arc story continues to captivate and awe.

The old story of the child who was secretly the son or daughter of royalty is a solid fantasy trope. And for good reason—it resonates. Almost all children secretly imagine they are a prince or princess, that they are special. The Pariah has none of that. Young Alwyn’s mother was a prostitute, and he never knew his father. Be certain that his dad was no one special, for this is not one of those kinds of stories. Alwyn is a thief, grubbing out an existence in the forest with a band of robbers. As far as personal virtues go, Alwyn…

From Lee's list on fantasy with unlikely heroes.

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