Book Review: Godkiller by Hannah Kaner

‘Godkiller’ by Hannah Kaner was released in 2022 and follows an ensemble cast of four characters: a Godkiller, Kissen, who roams the land, striking down Gods, supposedly in the name of King Aaron, for money, a former royal knight, and now baker, Elogast, or Elo to friends, and a young noble-born girl, called Inara, who has inadvertently found herself bound to a minor God, Skedi.

When Inara and Kissen meet in passing, and realise there is unrest bubbling in the Kingdom, demonstrated by the ruthless arson of Inara’s home, killing her mother and the staff of her home. Now orphaned and homeless, Kissen takes her under her wing and offers her refuge, and offers, albeit reluctantly, to go to the former City of Gods, which had been desecrated by King Aaron and his men during the war against Gods.

The premise in itself piqued my interest, and although I am hesitant to read incomplete series’, I knew there was no way I could wait for however many years it would take for a story in such a rich, colourful world to be completed. As a writer, I feel that I understand the labour of love that goes into published works of fiction, especially an immersive, rich series, like ‘Godkiller’.

This is the first book of a trilogy and sets up the characters, the potential implications, and risks of their decisions early on. Inara is without a home or anyone to trust aside from a God of dishonesty, and ends up establishing a kinship with Kissen. Meanwhile, Elo, who is repentant for his role in the King’s army, and wishes for his beloved friend to live a long, happy life, is initially uptight and harsh. He has sworn to righten the wrongs of his past.

I loved watching the characters connect, ask and answer questions, come to blows etc. I particularly enjoyed seeing how Skedi and Inara’s relationship changes upon her meeting new people. Inara, who, until the beginning of the book, could only depend on Skedi as a confidant, they trusted each other wholeheartedly, but as Skedi interacts with the world beyond Inara and feels the rush of euphoria that comes from offerings etc., their relationship changes. A bond of kinship frays, and that development, and sense of choice is incredibly interesting. Does your loyalty to your friend outweigh your desire for power?

I also enjoyed seeing Elo develop as a character, going from being distant from his fellow pilgrims on their trip to Blenraden, to being fond of Inara, and Kissen. The found family dynamic that establishes itself throughout the pilgrimage was compelling and evocative. Both Kissen, and Elo seek what is best for Inara, and the safety of the other. Just like Inara, who has latched onto her new caregivers, mentors, and friends. It is this that makes them reckless and dangerous, they would betray one another and break promises in the name of each other’s wellbeing.

I loved these characters, and the worldbuilding in the novel was exceptional, with vivid, immersive descriptions, I felt like I was in the action as it happened and loved how easy it was to be swept away into the world and its happenings. Nothing felt out of place, too peculiar, or strange, and the conclusion of the book was fantastic, closing off the narrative arc in place, and leaving me with dozens of unanswered questions. I cannot wait to find out what happens next!

Can we also just take a moment to appreciate how gorgeous the cover is? If my words don’t convince you to read it, surely the artwork will! It’s phenomenal!