Epic Adventure and Humour: Exploring ‘Kings of the Wyld’

Discover Nicholas Eames’s ‘Kings of the Wyld’, a whirlwind of humour and adventure in fantasy literature. This novel isn’t just refreshing; it’s a revolution in storytelling that blends epic battles, heartwarming humour, and the spirit of rock. Join us as we explore this groundbreaking fantasy masterpiece.

In the often-serious kingdom of fantasy literature, where dragons soar and wizards weave spells, Nicholas Eames hit the scene like a power chord in a tranquil forest glen with his debut novel, “Kings of the Wyld.”

This book isn’t just a breath of fresh air; it’s a hurricane of humour, heart, and head-banging adventure that has redefined what a fantasy novel can be.

Let’s tighten our scabbards, tune our lutes, and dive into the glorious, rollicking world of ‘Kings of the Wyld.’

A Symphony of Swords and Rock

For the uninitiated, “Kings of the Wyld” is the first book in Eames’s ‘The Band’ series.

Imagine a world where mercenary bands are revered as rock stars, with all the swagger, fame, and groupies that come with it.

The story follows the legendary band Saga, long disbanded and grown old, as they reunite for one last tour – not to play music, but to rescue the daughter of one of their members from an army of monsters.

Eames’s novel is a head-banging twist on traditional fantasy tropes.

Where else would you find retired, beer-bellied warriors picking up their swords like electric guitars for a comeback tour?

The fusion of classic rock vibes with epic fantasy battles creates a rhythm that’s impossible not to tap your feet to.

It’s a mix that’s as unexpected as finding a dragon in your garage, and equally exhilarating.

The Power of Humour: Laughter in the Dark

What sets “Kings of the Wyld” apart in the realm of fantasy is its humour.

Eames has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud in the midst of heart-pounding action or touching moments.

The book is a reminder that even in a genre filled with dire stakes and dark themes, there’s ample room for laughter – and that sometimes, a good chuckle is as powerful as a magic spell.

Character Chords: A Band Like No Other

At the heart of “Kings of the Wyld” is its unforgettable characters.

Each member of Saga is crafted with a depth and humour that makes them feel like old friends.

They’re flawed, they’re funny, and they’re as real as characters in a fantastical world can be.

Their camaraderie and banter are the soul of the novel, capturing the essence of lifelong friendships forged in the fires of both stages and battles.

Impact on the Fantasy Genre: The Encore

Since its debut, “Kings of the Wyld” has not just gained a cult following; it’s influenced how fantasy can be written.

Eames showed that epic and entertaining aren’t mutually exclusive and that injecting heart and humour into a fantasy world can make it all the more engaging.

It’s encouraged authors to experiment with tone and style, proving that there’s still room for innovation in the genre.

“Kings of the Wyld” is more than a novel; it’s a celebration of everything that makes fantasy fun.

It’s a testament to Nicholas Eames’s talent and imagination, and a rallying cry for more stories that dare to mix the whimsical with the epic.

For those about to rock (or read), we salute you, and we salute “Kings of the Wyld” for reminding us that, in the end, the best adventures are those we share with friends, whether they’re battles against horrid beasts or simply the struggles of growing old.

Rock on, Saga, rock on.

22 Unmissable Fantasy Books of 2022: Your Ultimate Guide

Uncover the magic of 2022’s top fantasy novels. This guide shines a spotlight on 22 unmissable, spellbinding adventures from the year’s best releases.

Another year, another towering pile of epic fantasy books hitting the shelves.

Let’s shine a spotlight on 22 brilliant fantasy novels from 2022 that you simply mustn’t miss.

No tedious prologues here, just top-notch action, imagination, and maybe the odd goblin who meets the business end of a battleaxe.

Babel by R.F. Kuang

In this dark academia fantasy, students at a university hold dangerous secrets that could unleash catastrophe, if rival factions don’t tear each other apart first.

The Soul Keepers by Lori Titus

Dark fantasy at its twisty, atmospheric best. A young woman must harness dangerous powers to unravel the mysteries of an ancient order of soul keepers.

Kingdom of Exiles by Maxym M. Martineau

A banished princess joins forces with a charismatic monster hunter, uncovering secrets and sparks along the way in this action-packed adventure.

The Paradox Hotel by Rob Hart A mind-bending science fantasy adventure in which a hotel’s janitor stumbles upon its many interdimensional secrets and paradoxes.

The Blood Tartan by Raymond St. Elmo

A Celtic clan chieftain embarks on a mystical odyssey, braving otherworldly fae and monstrous forces. Lush worldbuilding steeped in folklore.

The Mirror Season by Anna-Marie McLemore

Two teens come together amid trauma and mystery in this lyrical magical realist tale that blends fantasy with gritty contemporary themes.

The Price of Magic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Inspired by Aztec mythology, this intricate fantasy novel subverts expectations at every turn. The price of forbidden magic proves steep.

The Obsidian Tower by Melissa Caruso

An unusual setting of criminals conscripted to fight in a war between rival mages highlights Caruso’s fresh epic fantasy debut.

The Hourglass Throne by K.D. Edwards

Edwards continues the intimate yet ambitious Tarot Sequence series, focusing on personal relationships amid sweeping threats.

The Cursed Titans by Ricardo Victoria

Mexican mythology meets military fantasy as an Aztec peasant becomes an unlikely hero. Blends mythic quests with gritty action.

The Sea Between by Elizabeth Bear

Epic fantasy collides with bohemian urban fantasy in this wonderfully unique novel following a magician hiding from his dangerous past life.

Under the Pendulum Sun by Jeannette Ng

Mythical intrigue and faerie politics unfold in a richly imagined Victorian Gothic fantasy brimming with theological drama.

Storm Weaver by Elle Katharine White

Epic fantasy plus Jane Austen etiquette? White’s charming debut follows a young lady unwittingly caught up in magical intrigues. Witty and romantic.

The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean

Creepy and fascinating dark fantasy about a mysterious ancient order who consume the magic within ancient books.

Lions and Traitors by J.E. Grace

Shakespearean intrigue takes a darkly fantastical twist as assassins and spies collide in this tense historical thriller.

The Compass Rose by Gail Dayton

High seas fantasy filled with swashbuckling adventures and the wonder of discovery in a world where Compass Roses control the winds.

All the Murmuring Bones by A.G. Slatter

Slatter spins a gothic tale of dark family secrets, lost souls, and witches in Victorian London. Spooky magic abounds.

The Oleander Sword by Tasha Suri

Suri’s follow-up to Realm of Ash continues the epic yet character-driven tale inspired by Indian mythology.

God of Gnomes by Demi Harper

Whimsical, bite-sized fantasy stories following a gnome prophet and his quirky magical companions. Perfect for light-hearted adventuring.

The Ivory Key by Akshaya Raman

Sisters divided by magic must unite to open mystical portals and save their homeland in this expansive Indian-inspired fantasy.

The Rise of the Red Hand by Olivia Chadha

A layered work of South Asian inspired gaslamp fantasy set during an uprising against colonial oppressors in 33rd century India.

The Resurrectionist by L. Jagi Lamplighter

Demons both literal and metaphorical haunt the pages of this philosophical urban fantasy.

What were your top reads of 2022? Let me know in the comments?