An epic tale of undying love, heroic courage and ultimate sacrifice that is breathtakingly beautiful and uniquely imaginative. David Gemmell is one of Britain’s greatest storytellers whose inspired imaginative ideas and clever creativity merge together strong themes within a fantasy setting that is astonishing. Whether you are an avid reader of the fantasy genre or simply someone who delights in powerful, affecting prose this author whose accomplished ability and remarkable depth of meaning (that remains unmatched) is a master of his craft. As someone who grew up with reading works by JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, David Farland and Raymond E Feist (to name but a few) I was enchanted by David Gemmell’s work who stood-out with a distinctive flair and originality. Fast-paced action, dramatically intense plot twists and substantial, meaningful tales make this book a real page-turner that is quite different to anything else you will have encountered. Book one in the Rigante series; ‘Sword in the storm’ begins deep within the green mountains lands of the Rigante lies the settlement of the Three Streams, whose people worship the Gods of Air and Water and the spirits of the Earth. Among them lives a boy whose destiny is written in the starlight. He is Connavar, the Demonblade, born in a storm that doomed his father…A man with the makings of greatness will always have enemies and from the start of this epic chronicle it is prophesized that the armies of the Stone will one day cross the water…and that their coming will be like an avalanche. Even as that terrible time draws near, another story is told. One that links the price of glory with the loss of a Witch’s powers, and with the abiding hurt of a broken promise. Here the strongest forces, wise and evil, play their allotted part – from the Ghost General and the Malignant Morrigu to the woods whose magic harks back to a world before the coming of man. This magnificent, indescribable masterpiece of such scope is truly astonishing and remains as great a timeless legend as that of Merlin. With the quality and depths of the Arthurian Legends, combining complex, detailed world-building with exquisite storytelling this really is an extraordinarily, noteworthy creation. With the author’s sad death in 2006 it seems that his work has slipped into the shadows, therefore I would like to propel this genius’ creation into readers hearts once again – where it deserves to be. If you want to experience epic fantasy, sword and sorcery at its very best and delve into an outstanding creation beyond all imagination, then I urge you to discover the roots of the most widely-read and universally loved genre; for it is authors such as David Gemmell that ignited a passion and the enthusiasm for fantasy and great literature. This stunning, beautifully written piece of spectacular literary greatness is just exceptional!
David Gemmell has been writing popular fantasy books for years now and anyone who has read any of his previous works will have a rough idea what to expect from this one. In this first book of the “Rigante” series we follow the childhood of Connavar, a member of one of the Rigante clans. As he grows to adulthood he shows considerable natural talents and certain mystical beings take an unusual level of interest in him.There is nothing really new in this book. It features many of Gemmells favorite themes all mixed together with a healthy dose of tragedy. One thing I’ve noticed about Gemmell’s writing is that with each book the deaths and tragedies seem to increase.There’s plenty to enjoy about this story. Its an easy read, well written and flows along nicely. Theres a nice range of characters most with a little bit of depth to them. It doesn’t take long before you start to care about what happens to them.My biggest criticism would probably be that it is rather bitty. In many ways it reads like a series of short events all linked together rather than an ongoing narrative.This book is really just a lead up to the “main event”, the invasion of the Armies of Stone. An event which is repeatedly foreshadowed throughout the story.So another solid and entertaining read, but Gemmell isn’t really stretching himself here. He’s written better.
What do You think about Sword In The Storm (2001)?
I loved this book so much I started writing a screen play for it, and even got about half way through before I had to shelf it. I was in university at the time, but I will return to the time where I will pick up this tale of the man who inherits the sword in the storm. The young boy born of a lightning storm like Nikola Tesla, who will grow to become a great King. This is book 1 of 4, and starts an amazing saga of family, fortune, fable, and fantasy amidst a myriad of fantastic characters with beautifully woven histories and choices that make you want to become the avatars themselves. One of my Top 10 books of all time! ! !
—VS Drakkan
This book definitely deserved the five star rating I have given it. Gemmell really knows how to enchant the reader and bring them into the story. It's been awhile since I've gotten that "magical" feeling of being swept away from reality and stepping foot into a new realm. Gemmell also does a really good job of portraying human emotions. All too often, I scratch my head when reading a book thinking to myself that some characters do the most ridiculous things for absolutely no reason. Well with Gemmell, that is not the case. Each character is truly human and flawed and acts on their emotions; whether it be anger, stubborness, love, or kindness.It also didn't hurt that Connavar, the main character, was truly a fearsome hero that I would not want to anger. He quickly became one of my new favorite characters.
—Matt
Great Read, in fact it's my favorite Gemmell book yet( having read his Drenai Saga). His writing has improved over time and it's shows here. As always with most of Gemmels book we have the flawed hero, this time around he took time in developing his character. So the readers actually get to know him and he feels realistic. A big plus is introducing the cultures similar to our ancient time - Romans, Celts, Gauls ad Norse. Loved the way witches/gods play part and how the prophecies play out. As always Gemmeel's book are easy read which makes it's more enjoyable.
—Mayank Agarwal
