The Core
Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author Peter V. Brett brings one of the most imaginative fantasy sagas of the twenty-first century to an epic close.
For time out of mind, bloodthirsty demons have stalked the night, culling the human race to scattered remnants dependent on half-forgotten magics to protect them. Then two heroes arose ― men as close as brothers, yet divided by bitter betrayal. Arlen Bales became known as the Painted Man, tattooed head to toe with powerful magic symbols that enable him to fight demons in hand-to-hand combat ― and emerge victorious. Jardir, armed with magically warded weapons, called himself the Deliverer, a figure prophesied to unite humanity and lead them to triumph in Sharak Ka ― the final war against demonkind.
But in their efforts to bring the war to the demons, Arlen and Jardir have set something in motion that may prove the end of everything they hold dear ― a Swarm. Now the war is at hand and humanity cannot hope to win it unless Arlen and Jardir, with the help of Arlen’s wife, Renna, can bend a captured demon prince to their will and force the devious creature to lead them to the Core, where the Mother of Demons breeds an inexhaustible army.
Trusting their closest confidantes, Leesha, Inevera, Ragen and Elissa, to rally the fractious people of the Free Cities and lead them against the Swarm, Arlen, Renna, and Jardir set out on a desperate quest into the darkest depths of evil ― from which none of them expects to return alive.
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Peter V. Brett
Peter V. Brett is a storyteller whose world-building prowess and unique take on dark fantasy have earned him a dedicated fanbase. Best known for his Demon Cycle series, Brett transports readers into a terrifying and vivid world where humanity fights for survival against creatures of nightmare—demons that rise every night to prey on the living. His approach to fantasy is far from traditional, blending deeply personal character arcs with pulse-pounding action, all while exploring themes of survival, fear, and hope in a world that’s anything but kind.
The Demon Cycle
"In a world full of demons, the man who can master the wards and sigils needed to fight the monsters will be the one to free humanity from their horrific captors."
The Demon Cycle consists of five books. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.
Main series The Demon Cycle Universe
