The Seventh Friend by Tim Stead is an epic fantasy of phenomenal proportions. It is a complex tale encompassing a whole continent. Four hundred years earlier, the Seth Yarra came to the shores of Terras. The religious fanatics tried to convert the people of Terras by the sword but did not make it further than Afael. They met with the fury and vengeance of Wolf Narak, the Wolf god, one of the Benetheon created by Pelion to look after the continent of Terras and its surrounding seas. Now, the Seth Yarra has returned with a different tactic. As traitors show their colors and friends are lost, Narak attempts to thwart the Seth Yarra invaders. The most unlikely heroes arise and come together at the gate on the Green Road between Telas and Berash, the gateway to the rest of Terras. In this first book of the Sparrow and Wolf series, we meet the core characters and the battle for the gate against staggering odds.

Tim Stead has written a tome of a fantasy novel, an epic story with charismatic and flawed characters. The novel takes a hard look at human relationships, honor, and loyalty. The topic of redemption is clear from the novel's beginning until the end. Most of the main characters feel they need to prove themselves either because of their physical shortcomings or circumstances created by their families. The novel delves into what motivates men and women and the personal growth gained from making and correcting mistakes. The novel is serious, fast-paced, and written in beautiful language, bringing Terras and its champions to life. From running through the woods with Narak to facing the attackers on the Green Road, the reader is taken on a journey where they can almost touch and smell the surroundings. The world-building is excellent, and the characters carry a story of intrigue and mystery.

The Seventh Friend by Tim Stead follows the story of the mighty and infamous wolf god Narak, who content with living a peaceful life, finds himself thrust into the throes of battle once more. Narak along with other powerful allies must fight in this new war against the Seth Yarra. With war on the horizon and battles to be won, will Narak once again be known as the hero of the six kingdoms?

To say The Seventh Friend by Tim Stead is a good epic fantasy doesn’t do this book justice. The author has offered us a magnificent work that comprises an intricate story, well-fleshed-out characters, and amazing world-building. The story itself is well-paced and eases you into the happenings within the plot. Taking a look into the lives of the main characters really tied this story together as you see the various perspectives on current events. The main character Narak is by far the best though and with his kind and almost gentle nature, you wouldn’t expect him to be such a brutal warrior in battle. However, it is this contrast that makes his character so likable. I loved how the development of the characters is so clear within the story and the way in which it was done left me feeling both surprised and satisfied by the end of the book. Overall, The Seventh Friend was a fantastic book and I enjoyed every minute of it. I would definitely recommend this book to any lovers of fantasy.