The Gods Are Bastards: A High Fantasy Western

The Gods Are Bastards, Book 1

By: D. D. Webb

Narrated by: E. A. Castillo

It was a world of sword and sorcery, but that was a thousand years ago. When the gods turn their backs, true adventurers are needed more than ever.

For centuries, the Empire of Tiraas has surged forward in the name of peace, commerce, and political power, evolving from its early days of heroes, quests, and reckless abandon in favor of a more refined, industrious existence. Today, rails connect cities and outposts. Religion is power—even if the gods have gone silent. Magic is a commodity. Dwarves and elves are carefully discouraged from exhibiting any unwanted behaviors. Even the scariest monsters are dealt with diplomatically.

Needless to say, the days in which a person could make a living as a wandering adventurer are long since gone. But a nightmarish darkness looms, and those dormant, discarded ideals of courage, honor, and death-defying heroism must somehow rise to the surface once again. Because a demonic force has returned from the past—and it means to stay.

Meanwhile, at the University of Last Rock on the unforgiving, notably uncivilized frontier, an unruly band of youngsters yearns to show the world what they can do. And they are just about to begin their schooling in good old-fashioned magic, combat, and all-around adventure-seeking. Unfortunately for them, they will need much, much more than that if they have any hope of saving the world. And save the world they must . . .

Based on the hit web novel with more than eleven million views—and almost four million views on Royal Road—now available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook!

©2025 D. D. Webb (P)2025 Podium Audio

Fantasy western with great characters + world

The Gods Are Bastards is an incredible series set in a very unique world. A lot of fantasy tends to be stuck in a quasi medieval era, while this world is into its industrial age. The age of adventurers is over. Everything is interconnected now and those who would be adventurers in the past need to learn to navigate an entirely different world. The Empire, world, and the gods who rule it have an incredible history, and the characters are all very enjoyable from the beginning and have so much growing up to do. The writing and voice acting are great. The book is quite funny but has depth to it as well.