Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 26/11/2025
Published by: Podium Audio
ISBN: B0C2QQDF32
‘Of War and Ruin’ is yet another compelling instalment packed with heart, epic lore, and constant action, though some parts felt a little weak.
Cover:
Writing:
Storyline:
Main character(s):
Secondary characters:
Narration & Audio:
Once again, Cahill’s writing grabbed my attention right away, immersing me in vivid descriptions and a world that felt even more elaborate than before. The central characters also remained just as captivating, with unique traits and dynamic journeys fueled by complex motives and emotions. I especially loved Belinda and Dan, whose quirky personalities added an appealing mix of humour and warmth to the story.
However, the expanding cast became harder to track, and Calen’s arc mostly repeated patterns already explored previously instead of offering fresh developments. The story also loses some momentum in the middle, with certain parts feeling repetitive. What kept me invested was the relentless action, political struggles, and emotional whirlwind. I also devoured the intense climax and ending, which nicely set up the next book. Plus, Derek Perkins’ narration was a perfect fit for this story and brilliantly elevated the listening experience.
Discussion Questions (Contains spoilers!):
Q: Do you have any similar book recommendations?
For a similar character-driven epic fantasy with dragons, I recommend The Tainted Khan by Taran Matharu. However, its scope is much tighter, as it follows the main character’s point of view. I also recommend checking out Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner, The Ending Fire by Saara El-Arifi, and The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson for similar reads.
Q: Which moment did you find the most heartbreaking?
The scene where Rist’s tortured parents are found absolutely wrecked me. The descriptions of their broken and malnourished state cut deep, especially when contrasted with Calen’s memories of who they once were.
Q: Have you ever felt way out of your depth before?
Definitely! When I was applying for jobs last year, I struggled with impostor syndrome. One position, in particular, seemed so far out of my reach that when I got called for an interview, I was both anxious and pleasantly surprised. This experience helped me relate to the struggles of characters like Dayne and Kallinvar as they rose to meet the demands of their situations.
Q: What was your initial reaction when you realised how long this book is?
Q: What did you think about the multiple points of view and the massive scope of the story?
Q: What are your thoughts on the development of key characters – Calen, Valerys, Rist, Dan, Kallinvar, Dahlen, Belinda, Dayne, Aeson, Farda, etc?
Q: Is there a character you identify with?
Q: Which character were you rooting for most?
Q: What setting did you think was the most interesting?
Q: Are you good at solving riddles? What did you think of Rokka’s?
Q: Which reunion in the story felt the most satisfying?
Q: What did you think about Calen’s relationship with his siblings, Ella and Haem?
Q: Do you agree with Aeson’s choice to keep Ella’s survival a secret from Calen?
Q: What do you think about the connection between Ella and Farda?
Q: If you could pick any Druid ability for yourself, which one would it be and why?
Q: Have you ever faced the loss of someone you cared about? How did you cope?
Q: Do you have any theories about what’s next for the characters?
Q: Leadership is a big theme in this book—how do characters like Calen, Alina, Kallinvar, and Daymon handle their authority differently?
See my other review for Ryan Cahill:
The Bound and The Broken series:
1. Of Blood and Fire
2. Of Darkness and Light
2.5. The Exile
Do you agree or disagree with anything mentioned above? Let us know in the comments below.
To read other book related posts, click here or check out the tag cloud for more options.
