Wolf In Shadow by David Gemmell (Jon Shannow Novels: Book 1)

Armageddon had visited the world 300 years earlier and it is within this post-apocolyptic nightmare that we are introduced to the Jerusalem Man, Jon Shannow.

The Lord of the Pit has taken Shannow's woman for blood sacrifice and the deadly warrior in now on their trail and intend on revenge.

David Gemmell once again gives us a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that is thankfully devoid of any unecessary narrative or world-building.

This is a great look into how Gemmell believes the world may look thousands of years in the future. It is not the science fiction vision of advanced technology and planet colonisation but a terrifying look at how the world could so easily return to barbarianism.

This style of fantasy is sadly not as popular as it once was. It is heavy on the action but never at the expense of the characters. David Gemmell gives you just enough information to make them real but does not go into such depths so as to leave the reader losing the all important storyline. Also, in Jon Shannow, Gemmell gives yet another fantastic hero to rival Druss and Waylander.

Straightforward, HUGELY enjoyable fantasy in which Gemmell gives us another cracking lead character.

8/10 Straightforward, HUGELY enjoyable fantasy in which Gemmell gives us another cracking lead character.

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2 positive reader review(s) for Wolf In Shadow

David Gemmell biography

Wolf In Shadow reader reviews

from Kenya

Gemmell has with 'Wolf in Shadow' created a thoroughly gripping read, much like many of his other fantasy fiction novels. His portrayal of the post apocalyptic landscapes and uncivilised society are not so unbelievable so as to remove any emotional contact that the reader develops with the characters, as i found that i could still relate to many of the themes. The introduction of magical powers and ESPers to the plot only added to the enjoyment as again, Gemmell has introduced them in such a way that you almost believe that they could develop in reality. The melancholic nature of Jon Shannow's journey , and his misunderstood personality and beliefs throughout the novel only cause the reader to side with him more and revel in his accomplishments. The inclusion of many subplots throughout the story, all of which culminate in the final pages maintains the readers interest further as the mysteries are all unwound. There are however elements of the novel which are perhaps a bit romantic and quixotic, but i found that they only added to the Gemmell experience. All in all, i though this book was absolutely fantastic as far as fantasy fiction goes, and once again, Gemmell has produced a great read 9/10!!!
9/10 ()

from Vienna

I read and loved the Jon Shannow books as a teenager and have just begun re-reading them as an adult. They are still as addictive a read as ever and though I certainly spotted more flaws in Gemmell as an author (slightly weak characterisation and jarring perspective changes) this time around there can be no denying that he writes a damn fine heroic fantasy. This may sound strange, considering that Shannow reads the Bible and is looking for New Jerusalem, but I never really noticed the Christian element when I first read it but this time around I realised just how strong it was. Well, if all Christian fantasy was this good then it would be held in much higher regard. Why? Because it is non-dogmatic, readers like to be encouraged to think, not to be told what to think. There is a big difference. Recommended, as are all of Gemmell's works.
8/10 ()

8.4/10 from 3 reviews

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