In the Shadow of the Gods

Dunne’s gripping epic fantasy debut opens 800 years after Patharro and Metherra, the parent gods, cast their twin offspring, Fratarro and Sororra, down from the heavens for the sin of wanting there to be more to their lives than what their parents decreed. The twin gods have been bound to the well-hidden and powerless land of Fiatera. As the book begins, strange occurrences signal changes that might presage the twins’ restoration. Massed against this threat is a motley group: a heretic priest named Joros and his magic-using slave, Anddyr; Scal, a Northman and former Fiateran prisoner; a pair of sewer-rat siblings pretending they’re not twins; and a visionary priestess. The gods have brought this group together—but which gods, and to what purpose? The interesting concept will keep readers involved as the story gradually unfolds. With at least two sequels planned, this installment is mostly setup, but Dunne’s polished prose and well-rounded characters make it a strong start. (June)