Where Should You Start Reading Bryce O’Connor?
Bryce O’Connor’s bibliography spans progression sci-fi, dark grimdark-adjacent fantasy, and classical epic stories. Because his universes do not currently cross over, the best starting point depends entirely on the subgenre you prefer:
- For Sci-Fi Progression Fantasy (LitRPG & Cultivation fans): Start with Iron Prince (Book 1 of the Warformed: Stormweaver series). Co-authored with Luke Chmilenko, this is O’Connor’s most popular work, following an underdog protagonist climbing the ranks of a futuristic military academy using high-tech combat suits.
- For Gritty, Classic Dark Fantasy: Start with Child of the Daystar (Book 1 of The Wings of War). This series is a slower, character-focused fantasy following Raz i’Syul Arro, a winged reptilian protagonist navigating a brutal world of sellswords, slavery, and vengeance.
- For Co-Authored Epic Fantasy: Start with A Mark of Kings (co-authored with Luke Chmilenko) or Shadows of Ivory (co-authored with T.L. Greylock). Both provide multi-perspective, classic fantasy structures with political intrigue and archaeological mysteries.
Warformed: Stormweaver Series Reading Order
Co-authored with Luke Chmilenko, the Warformed: Stormweaver series is a progression fantasy hit. It is set in a future where combatants utilize CADs (Combat Assistance Devices) that evolve as they fight. The books must be read in publication order:
- Iron Prince (2020)
- Fire and Song (2023)
The Wings of War Series Reading Order
O’Connor's debut solo series is a grim, visceral dark fantasy saga. It centers on Raz i’Syul Arro, an atherian (a humanoid dragon-like reptilian race) who struggles for survival and vengeance. Reading them in chronological order, which matches the publication order, is essential:
- Child of the Daystar (2015)
- The Warring Son (2017)
- Winter's King (2017)
- As Iron Falls (2018)
- Of Sand and Snow (2020)
Note: A sixth and final volume has been planned by the author to conclude Raz's story, but as of 2026, it has no official release date due to O’Connor's focus on the Stormweaver series.
The Shattered Reigns Series Reading Order
Co-authored with Luke Chmilenko, this high-fantasy series follows Declan Idrys and his companion Ryn as they are swept up in ancient conflicts and political machinations:
- A Mark of Kings (2019)
- A Blood of Kings (2021)
The Godforged Chronicles Series Reading Order
Co-authored with T.L. Greylock, this series features archaeological mysteries, ancient gods, and a fast-paced rival dynamic in the Seven Cities of Bellara:
- Shadows of Ivory (2020)
- Legacy of Bronze (2022)
Anthologies and Short Stories
O’Connor has contributed to a few multi-author anthologies. These are entirely optional side projects and can be read at any time:
- Lost Lore (2018) – A collection of fantasy stories featuring contributions by Bryce O'Connor.
- When Swords Fall Silent: An Assassination Anthology (2023) – A themed collection of stories featuring stealth and assassination plots.