Moc – Gwynne John (2023)

The first book in the cult series The Faithful and the Fallen by acclaimed fantasy author John Gwynne. Young Corban watches enviously as boys become men and learns the art of war. He longs to wield a sword and spear to protect his king's realm. However, that day will come sooner than he expected. Only when he loses those he loves will he discover the true cost of courage. The continent of the Exiles has a bloody history filled with clashes between armies of men and giants, where the land has turned black from their spilled blood. Although the tribes of giants were defeated long ago, their conquered fortresses still lie in ruins across the land. Now, however, the giants are awakening again, stones weep blood, and even colossal reptiles have appeared. Those who can still read the signs see a threat much greater than the ancient wars approaching. The world will be shrouded in mourning, and angels and demons prepare for the battlefield. Then a war will break out that will end all wars. King Aquilus summons the other kings to a council to form an alliance in these urgent times. The prophecy states that both darkness and light will have their champion — the Black Sun and the Bright Star. It would be wise to find them both, for if the Black Sun manages to ascend to the throne, all hopes and dreams of humanity will turn to dust.