John Gwynne's next epic fantasy novel, The Wolves of War, is set to blend Slavic mythology with dark fairy tale elements, drawing comparisons to Andrzej Sapkowski's The Witcher and Stephen King's Carrie. The book, slated for release on November 3rd, follows Ivan, a father struggling to protect his family during a war between two princes in a fantasy version of Kievan Rus. His daughter, Halia, begins to explore mystical powers connected to the forest and its creatures, including wolves, rusalka, domovoi, upir, leshen, and striga, which she must master to survive.
Gwynne described the Slavic-inspired forest setting as a character in its own right, characterizing it as "dark and oppressive and terrifying," rather than a serene woodland. The narrative begins by detailing the brewing conflict as Ingvar Ruriksson prepares for war, two years before Halia starts her journey of discovery.
An excerpt provided by publisher Orbit offers a glimpse into the novel's opening chapters. Chapter One introduces Ingvar Ruriksson, who retrieves his father's sword from a burial chamber in a ritualistic act that tests his resolve. He envisions his father's past battles and a cryptic warning about "the wolf" at the door before claiming his birthright and preparing for war.
Two years later, Chapter Two shifts focus to Halia, who experiences vivid dreams of running with wolves in a snowy forest. These dreams are depicted as an immersive, almost spiritual connection to the wild. Halia participates in a hunt with a pack of wolves, demonstrating an understanding of their ways and a growing affinity for the natural world. The chapter culminates with Halia waking from her dream, still feeling the lingering presence of the wolves and the thrill of her nocturnal adventures.
The Wolves of War is Gwynne's latest work following his completed trilogy, The Bloodsworn Saga, which concluded in 2024 with The Fury of the Gods. His previous works often drew inspiration from Norse mythology and epic tales like Beowulf.