The Gods of Men by Barbara Kloss (hardback book)

The Gods of Men by Barbara Kloss is a fantasy novel (first in the Gods of Men series), originally self-published in 2018, with a hardcover edition available (notably a 2020 printing from the author/Indy Pub, around 450 pages).

Here’s a concise description based on the book’s official blurb and summaries:

Sable hated the gods. She hated what men did in their name.

Magic is forbidden throughout the Five Provinces; those born with it are hunted and killed. Sable, a healer with a dangerous secret—she possesses forbidden magical powers tied to music—has lived in hiding for ten years after accidentally causing her younger sister’s death with her abilities. Burdened by guilt, she survives quietly as a healer in a remote village.

But now, a malevolent force is closing in: a spirit of the dead, summoned by a mysterious necromancer, is hunting her. Sable soon realizes she’s merely the beginning of a larger, deadly plan that threatens the entire world. To survive, she must confront her past, her powers, and unlikely allies—including a man with secrets of his own—while unraveling the truth behind the gods, magic, and the rising darkness.

This epic fantasy blends strong world-building, an intriguing magic system (centered on music and forbidden arts), themes of guilt and redemption, and a gripping mix of action, romance, and high-stakes adventure. It’s praised for its engaging characters, atmospheric setting, and solid storytelling, making it a favorite among fans of character-driven fantasy (often compared to elements of epic fantasy with romantic undertones). The hardcover edition features a durable binding suitable for collectors or frequent readers.