Gagner la Guerre
Detailed Ratings
Plot 3.0/5
Characters 4.0/5
World-building 2.0/5
Writing Style 5.0/5

Gagner la Guerre

This work is not yet officially published in EN. Showing original title.
+5
Balance
+5 -0
Score weighted by each hero's level: a recommendation from a level 3 hero counts for 3.
4.0/5
1
Reviews
Ranking among books: #16 Fantasy
Tome
From the editors, by Tome Updated on 13/04/2026

Through the Shadows of the Republic, a Grim Odyssey

Picture a city where the air is thick with the scent of intrigue and betrayal. In such a place, the canals murmur secrets as boats glide silently under bridges. Here, in the heart of the corrupt Republic of Ciudalia, unfolds the gripping tale penned by Jean-Philippe Jaworski in 2009.

The Story

Enter the world of Benvenuto Gesufal, a cunning and ruthless assassin navigating the treacherous waters of high politics and war. In the Republic of Ciudalia, power games are as perilous as they are constant. Charged with a mission that could shift the balance of power, Benvenuto must survive a landscape where allegiances are as fluid as the tides. This dark fantasy immerses readers in a realm of moral ambiguity, where survival often outweighs virtue.

What Makes This Book Unique

What sets this novel apart is Jaworski's masterful command of language, crafting a narrative rich with eloquent prose and vivid imagery. The book's grim and gritty atmosphere is reminiscent of works by authors like Joe Abercrombie, yet it maintains a distinct voice that reflects its French origins. Themes of power, loyalty, and deception are interwoven with a complexity that challenges and engrosses, positioning it as a notable entry in the realms of dark fantasy and grimdark fiction.

Who Should Read This

Fans of intricate political intrigue and morally complex characters will find much to admire here. While new readers should be prepared for a dense narrative filled with detailed world-building and mature themes, those who appreciate a challenging and immersive story will be well rewarded. This book demands attention and patience but offers a richly woven tapestry of storytelling for those who dare to delve into its depths.

+5
Balance
+5 -0
Score weighted by each hero's level: a recommendation from a level 3 hero counts for 3.
4.0/5
1
Reviews
Ranking among books: #16 Fantasy
Detailed Ratings
Plot 3.0/5
Characters 4.0/5
World-building 2.0/5
Writing Style 5.0/5
Tome
From the editors, by Tome Updated on 13/04/2026

Through the Shadows of the Republic, a Grim Odyssey

Picture a city where the air is thick with the scent of intrigue and betrayal. In such a place, the canals murmur secrets as boats glide silently under bridges. Here, in the heart of the corrupt Republic of Ciudalia, unfolds the gripping tale penned by Jean-Philippe Jaworski in 2009.

The Story

Enter the world of Benvenuto Gesufal, a cunning and ruthless assassin navigating the treacherous waters of high politics and war. In the Republic of Ciudalia, power games are as perilous as they are constant. Charged with a mission that could shift the balance of power, Benvenuto must survive a landscape where allegiances are as fluid as the tides. This dark fantasy immerses readers in a realm of moral ambiguity, where survival often outweighs virtue.

What Makes This Book Unique

What sets this novel apart is Jaworski's masterful command of language, crafting a narrative rich with eloquent prose and vivid imagery. The book's grim and gritty atmosphere is reminiscent of works by authors like Joe Abercrombie, yet it maintains a distinct voice that reflects its French origins. Themes of power, loyalty, and deception are interwoven with a complexity that challenges and engrosses, positioning it as a notable entry in the realms of dark fantasy and grimdark fiction.

Who Should Read This

Fans of intricate political intrigue and morally complex characters will find much to admire here. While new readers should be prepared for a dense narrative filled with detailed world-building and mature themes, those who appreciate a challenging and immersive story will be well rewarded. This book demands attention and patience but offers a richly woven tapestry of storytelling for those who dare to delve into its depths.

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon
Status: Completed
Publication: 2009
Country of origin: France
Original language: French
Age rating: Mature (18+)
ISBN: 9782360570808
Genres: Fantasy Dark Fantasy

Reviews

Bill
Translated from French

A Hell of a Style

I'm not sure this book would fly if it were released today. Spoiler alert, the hero is a rapist. Putting that aside, it's the writing style that truly stands out: punchy, vibrant, raw, intense... It's a refreshing break from the overly polished prose in most fantasy works. And this hero, even though he's a complete jerk, you can't help but root for him to make it through somehow. Oddly enough, you hope he won't be the only one taking the fall for all the other jerks. There are a few slow sections here and there... As for the setting, there's a touch of magic, a smattering of elves, but the world overall feels like what Venice might have been during its heyday as a commercial/military powerhouse clashing with numerous rivals.
Recommends:
+5 The value of a recommendation depends on its author's level.
Overall
Plot
Characters
World-building
Writing Style
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