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The Steel Remains summary
Brief summary
The Steel Remains by Richard K. Morgan is a gripping dark fantasy novel that follows the story of a disgraced hero, a gay swordsman, and a fierce warrior as they navigate a world filled with political intrigue, ancient magic, and brutal warfare.
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The Steel Remains
Summary of key ideas
The World of The Steel Remains
In The Steel Remains by Richard K. Morgan, we are introduced to a world where the remnants of a fallen empire, the Scaled Folk, are being hunted down and destroyed. The story revolves around three central characters: Ringil Eskiath, a disillusioned war hero who is also a member of a family of nobles, Archeth, a half-human half-scaled woman, and Egar, a fierce and loyal northern warrior.
The plot kicks off when Ringil is asked by his mother to find and save his cousin, who has been sold into slavery. Ringil, who is openly gay, is estranged from his family due to his sexuality. However, he agrees to the task, leading him to uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens the entire world.
Unraveling the Conspiracies
As Ringil, Archeth, and Egar traverse the world, they encounter various challenges and adversaries. They discover that a powerful sorcerer, the Dwenda, is planning to unleash an ancient and malevolent race, the Aldrain, back into the world. The Dwenda have been manipulating the human race for their own ends, and they seek to use the Aldrain to regain their lost dominion.
Throughout their journey, the trio faces relentless opposition. Ringil's cousin, who was sold into slavery, is revealed to have been transformed into a powerful sorceress. The group also faces off against the Helmsmen, a group of religious fanatics who are in league with the Dwenda. Their battles are brutal and unflinchingly violent, a signature of the author's style.
Revelations and Betrayals
As the story progresses, we learn more about Archeth's unique heritage. She is the last of the Kiriath, an ancient and advanced race who once ruled the world. Her loyalty to the human empire, despite her Kiriath origins, is tested throughout the narrative. We also witness Egar's unyielding loyalty to his people and his struggle against the encroaching forces of the Dwenda.
Rather than painting a clear line between good and evil, Morgan's characters are morally complex. Ringil, in particular, is a deeply flawed hero. His bitterness and cynicism are a result of his experiences in the war and his family's rejection of his sexuality. Nevertheless, his determination to stop the Dwenda and save the world never wavers.
The Final Showdown
The climax of The Steel Remains sees the trio confront the Dwenda and their Aldrain allies in a final, epic battle. The fight is bloody and brutal, and not without significant losses. Ringil, in a desperate move, unleashes a powerful magical weapon, the Steel Remains, to defeat the Dwenda. The aftermath is bittersweet, with the group victorious but deeply scarred by their experiences.
In conclusion, The Steel Remains is a dark and gritty fantasy novel that subverts traditional tropes of the genre. It is a story of war, betrayal, and the struggle against overwhelming odds. The characters are complex, the world is unforgiving, and the narrative is unflinchingly brutal. It sets the stage for a compelling series that explores the consequences of power, the nature of identity, and the cost of survival.
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What is The Steel Remains about?
The Steel Remains is a gripping fantasy novel by Richard K. Morgan that follows the story of a former war hero named Ringil Eskiath. Set in a world filled with dark magic and political intrigue, the book delves into themes of identity, power, and the consequences of war. With its complex characters and intense action, it offers a fresh take on the traditional fantasy genre.
The Steel Remains Review
The Steel Remains by Richard K. Morgan (2008) invites readers into a world of gritty realism and dark fantasy. Here's why this book is a captivating read:
- Featuring complex characters grappling with morality and inner demons, it adds depth and realism to the story.
- Its unpredictable plot twists and political intrigue keep readers on the edge of their seats, continuously engaged.
- Exploring themes of war, magic, and ancient prophecies, the book offers a fresh take on traditional fantasy tropes, ensuring an exciting and immersive reading experience.
Who should read The Steel Remains?
Readers who enjoy dark and gritty fantasy worlds
Those looking for complex and morally ambiguous characters
Fans of epic battles and intricate political intrigue
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Book summaries like The Steel Remains
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The Steel Remains FAQs
What is the main message of The Steel Remains?
The main message of The Steel Remains is facing the past and embracing one's destiny amidst epic battles.
How long does it take to read The Steel Remains?
It typically takes several hours to read The Steel Remains, while the Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is The Steel Remains a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Steel Remains is worth reading for its gripping plot, complex characters, and rich world-building that captivate readers.
Who is the author of The Steel Remains?
The author of The Steel Remains is Richard K. Morgan.
What to read after The Steel Remains?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Steel Remains, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
- Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop
- Season of Mists by Neil Gaiman
- King of Thorns by Mark Lawrence
- Weaveworld by Clive Barker
- Godsgrave by Jay Kristoff
- Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton
- Breath of Fire by Amanda Bouchet
- Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa
- Before They Are Hanged by Joe Abercrombie