Chosen of the Gods
Overview
Chosen of the Gods, written by Chris Pierson, is the first book in the Kingpriest trilogy in the Dragonlance saga. Set during the Age of Might, it explores the rise of Beldinas Pilofiro, a humble priest of Paladine, who will become the infamous Kingpriest of Istar—the very man whose pride and misguided faith bring about the Cataclysm.
This is a novel of divine ambition, political intrigue, and spiritual fervor. It tells the story of how power, even when wielded in the name of good, can become dangerously absolute.
Main Characters
Beldinas Pilofiro – A devoted priest of Paladine who believes in justice, truth, and moral purity. Beldinas starts as a man of humility and spiritual insight, but as his influence grows, so too does his sense of divine mission.
Cathan MarSevrin – A noble warrior and close friend of Beldinas. He serves as a moral compass and counterbalance, questioning the consequences of Beldinas’s crusade.
Toren – A priest with sharp political instincts, whose counsel helps Beldinas rise but also enables his shift toward absolutism.
Temples and Nobility of Istar – Allies and adversaries alike, representing the competing factions of religious and secular authority.
Setting
The novel is set in Istar during the height of the Age of Might—a golden age that conceals deep moral rot. Towering temples, imperial courts, and holy cities provide a rich, detailed backdrop for political maneuvering and spiritual aspiration.
The setting captures the contrast between the Kingpriest’s ideals and the corrupt world he tries to purify.
Plot Summary
Beldinas begins the story as a modest cleric moved by visions and guided by his deep devotion to Paladine. When political instability rocks Istar, he is called to serve not just as a healer of souls, but as a reformer of society.
With Cathan’s support and Toren’s scheming, Beldinas rises quickly through the ecclesiastical hierarchy, gaining influence over temple and throne alike. As the Kingpriest, he sees himself as Paladine’s chosen, tasked with eliminating evil from the world.
But his increasing zeal leads him to purge not just evil deeds, but dissenting beliefs. What begins as righteous reform becomes divine tyranny. Cathan, once loyal, begins to doubt the justice of Beldinas’ mission.
The novel ends with Beldinas triumphant, but with the first cracks forming in his moral foundation—setting the stage for the catastrophe that will follow.
Themes
Faith and Fanaticism – The line between divine devotion and dangerous zealotry is a central theme.
Power and Corruption – Even the purest intentions can be twisted when paired with unchecked authority.
Friendship and Loyalty – Cathan’s internal conflict mirrors the reader’s struggle with Beldinas’ transformation.
Judgment and Mercy – The novel contrasts the pursuit of perfect justice with the need for human compassion.
Tone & Style
Chosen of the Gods is dramatic, philosophical, and politically sharp. It reads like a tragic biography, building a sense of inevitability around Beldinas’ rise.
Pierson’s prose is lyrical and serious, blending spiritual reflection with courtly drama.
Reception
Praised for:
Deep philosophical and moral questions.
A powerful portrayal of the Kingpriest’s evolution.
Strong political worldbuilding.
Some critiques:
Heavy on introspection and theology.
Slower pacing may not suit readers seeking high action.
Final Thoughts
Chosen of the Gods is a compelling, tragic exploration of how good intentions can lead to catastrophic ends. It adds depth and pathos to a figure long portrayed as a cautionary villain, and it sets the stage for one of Krynn’s most defining disasters.
Recommended for:
Readers interested in spiritual and political drama.
Fans of tragic character arcs.
Dragonlance enthusiasts eager to explore the pre-Cataclysm lore.