Content levels
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
Arcane Ascension meets The Blade Itself in the epic fantasy adventure IRONBOUND, where the will to survive – and the urge for revenge - cuts cold and deep. In the Iron Empire only the strongest are given the chance to Ascend. Castor has wanted to fuse with a Cor Heart since he was a boy. Made from an otherworldly metal, it will give him the ability to manipulate an element. Now that the trial has finally arrived, it is his chance to prove his worth. Once he has won the Empress' blessing, he can attune to a Symbol and begin a life of adventure. But during the trial, his dreams are interrupted by a vicious attack. His home is left in ruins and his family in peril, all while Castor and his friends are carried away to be conscripted into the Legions. Bound to a Symbol he never wanted, Castor must survive the Iron City, the enemies in the frozen North, and hidden traitors inside the Rusting Empire before he can get revenge on the ones who took everything from him. This is the first step of the rise of the Ironbound. Don't miss the start of this action-packed, adrenaline-fueled Progression Fantasy epic from Andrew Givler, bestselling author of Soul Fraud and the creator of Sigils, a Youtube channel with 1.4+ Million Subscribers. Perfect for fans of Arcane Ascension, Mark of the Fool, Pierce Brown’s Red Rising series, The Will of the Many, Book 1 in the Hierarchy series (James Islington), Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law Trilogy (The Blade Itself, Before They Are Hanged, Last Argument of Kings), Jim Butcher’s Codex Alera Series, and The Sword of Kaigen. “A captivating coming-of-age fantasy full of ingenious magic and military adventure!" —Sebastien de Castell, award-winning author of The Greatcoats.
Is Ironbound appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
Violent fantasy with a brutal attack that destroys the protagonist's home and family, followed by forced conscription and war. Contains military combat, implied death, and themes of revenge.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, no sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include captivity, death of parent, and grief (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens will be drawn to the magical power system, protagonist's fight for survival, and his quest for revenge against those who destroyed his life.