Picture a British storyteller who conjured epic battles and ancient evils from a life of globe-trotting adventures—meet John Gwynne! Born in Singapore and now rooted in England, this fantasy maestro swapped lecture halls for literary glory with his debut novel, Malice, snagging the David Gemmell Morningstar Award. Think of him as a modern bard, weaving tales that echo Tolkien’s depth and Martin’s grit, all with a Viking flair.
Gwynne didn’t just stumble into writing—he was nudged by family, fueled by a love for heroic fantasy, and shaped by a wild, wandering past. His stories aren’t just books; they’re portals to worlds where swords clash and destinies unfold.
The Making of John Gwynne
John Gwynne’s journey kicked off in Singapore, where he was born while his father served in the RAF. His childhood was a whirlwind of moves every few years, planting seeds of wanderlust and wonder. Later, he studied and lectured at Brighton University, but his resume’s a treasure trove—think double bass in a rock band, soap-packing stints, and even time in Canada. It wasn’t until his thirties, egged on by his wife and kids, that he picked up the pen, turning bedtime stories into epic sagas.
A confessed fan of David Gemmell, Gwynne’s love for flawed heroes and high stakes shines through. His Viking re-enactment hobby—complete with shield walls and chainmail—adds a gritty authenticity to his tales. From East Sussex, with a lively crew of kids, pets, and vintage furniture gigs, he crafted a career that’s as colorful as his life.
John Gwynne’s Unforgettable Stories
Gwynne’s bibliography is a fantasy feast, starting with The Faithful and the Fallen series. Malice (2012) introduces Corban, a young warrior caught in a prophecy of light versus darkness—think epic battles with a side of giant bears. Its sequels, Valour, Ruin, and Wrath, keep the momentum, blending visceral action with deep character arcs.
Next up, Of Blood and Bone, set 130 years later in the same Banished Lands, pits angels against demons with a fresh cast. A Time of Dread is a standout, lauded for its tension and world-building. Then there’s The Bloodsworn Saga—kicking off with The Shadow of the Gods (2021)—a Norse-inspired romp of vengeance and monstrous foes that’s got fans buzzing. His style? Fast-paced, cinematic, and packed with heart, all rooted in myth and realism.
Gwynne’s knack for gray morality and technical combat—like swordplay that feels real—sets him apart. He ditches the black-and-white heroics for characters you’d share a mead with, flaws and all. It’s no wonder his books keep climbing bestseller lists.
Why John Gwynne Matters
John Gwynne’s carved a throne in epic fantasy, bridging old-school heroism with modern edge. Winning the Morningstar Award put him on the map, but it’s his loyal fanbase—raving about his pacing and emotional punch—that cements his legacy. He’s a torchbearer for David Gemmell’s spirit, inspiring new readers to dive into tales of courage and chaos.
Beyond awards, Gwynne’s impact is personal—his worlds feel lived-in, his characters like old friends. From Singapore to Sussex, he’s turned a kaleidoscope of experiences into stories that resonate globally, proving fantasy’s power to connect and thrill.
- About John Gwynne
- Born: Singapore, date undisclosed
- Key Works: Malice, The Shadow of the Gods
- Award: David Gemmell Morningstar Award (2013)
- Hobbies: Viking re-enactment, furniture restoration
Snag Malice or The Shadow of the Gods and dive into John Gwynne’s epic fantasy rollercoaster—your bookshelf deserves this adventure!