Dragon fans were treated to a cool cameo in the latest episode of House of the Dragon. During Criston Cole’s march along the coast, they stop at Duskendale. There, Cole executes the castle’s lord – Steven Pacey as Lord Gunthor Darklyn!
Pacey has done tons of acting from movies to plays to voice work. But fans may know him best from his amazing audiobook performances. He’s the voice behind over 200 books! But one series really stands out – The First Law books by Joe Abercrombie. Pacey’s readings are so good, many think they’re the best way to experience those gritty fantasy tales.
This brief role got me thinking it’s perfect to recommend another epic fantasy series. Like George R.R. Martin, Abercrombie crafts a highly detailed world with complex characters. His books are ultra realistic too – there’s politics, wars, and people aren’t just good or bad. They have layers.
The characters are so morally gray. At first some seem super unlikable, but you start to see their humanity. Unlike Game of Thrones with heroes like Jon Snow, in The First Law even the main characters are deeply flawed. This challenges readers to find understanding in people doing ugly things.
If you love the intricate stories of House of the Dragon, you’ll be hooked on The First Law. The writing and characters are equally rich and multilayered. It really carries on Martin’s whole grimdark vibe to the max. Fans should give the books a listen, with Pacey guiding the way on audible. You’ll be glued from start to finish, I promise!