2026 The BookFest Award Winner • 2025 International Firebird Book Award Winner • April 2024 Reader's Favorite, BooksShelf.com Cover Contest • April 2024 Top Choice, BooksShelf.com • November 2023 Editor's Choice, BooksShelf.com

In the absence of the Guardian of Maarihk, the Usurper's venom has extended beyond the Gulf of Braag, seeding unrest and hatred for all things Maarihkish. Natharr and the Knights of Ril must overcome malice and the ramifications of Ellis the Elder's boundless past that even Sight cannot reveal. The Rilari stand alone in a world in turmoil as they discover the tremendous reach of the Usurper's vizier. Even the endowments of the Daemons of Order are unable to withstand the ravages of fighting to survive on Rilari loyalties.

Meanwhile, Nathan and his summoned companion must rely on the teachings of both Natharr and Quiet One to carve out their place in the Maarihk Empire. Skill with a sword is only the beginning of their treacherous path, as fraught with peril as Darshelle's as she flees the animus of the ancient wood.

Reviews

• 5/5 Stars — "The action ramps up in Rilari! A much-anticipated pivot for me. The story splits from two character-threads into three, following the actions of Natharr, the Guardian of Maarihk; Nathan, the naïve and misled Crown Prince; and Darshelle, the abandoned woman who lost not only Natharr, but the boy she raised and loved like a son. I relished the shift and the tension that came from navigating new peoples, both tolerant and dangerous. There are battles, of course, and not without losses. Nathan’s story takes a dark turn, and I continue to be captivated by his gradual alignment with the forces of chaos. He’s naïve and finding his way in a strange world. His slow slide into darkness and brutality feels realistic, which is especially frightening since this isn’t a behavior limited to fantasy novels. Darshelle’s story and the losses in the Ancient Wood are just plain distressing. The danger and violence definitely increase with this book, and I don’t doubt that there’s more to come — the fate of mankind is in balance, so it’s bound to get intense. For those who enjoy epic stories about good versus evil, this book is a keeper. For those who want to read about fairies and butterflies, look away. Just saying .… There were bits of research in the story that demonstrated the author’s attention to detail. The fact that it’s challenging to draw a sword sheathed on one’s back is one such fact (unlike in the movies). And there are some realistic descriptions of impaling. Eeek! This series must be read in order as it’s one long epic story. I’m on to Book Five, the last published to date. Recommended to readers of dark fantasy along the lines of George RR Martin’s Game of Thrones.” — D. Wallace Peach, author of The Shattered Sea Duology
• 5/5 Stars — “Rilari [is] an emotional odyssey that will leave you breathless. Buckle up for a story that throws you headfirst into the world of the Rilari, where humanity’s fate rests on the shoulders of a courageous, yet relatable, leader – Natharr, Guardian of Maarihk and Knight-Marshal of the Knights of Ril (a.k.a the Rilari). Kilpack masterfully crafts Natharr as a hero brimming with both strength and vulnerability. He’s a leader who inspires with his bravery, lightens the mood with his cheeky side, and grapples with his own emotions, particularly with his relationships. Chapter 13, aptly titled “Well Come,” stands out as a prime example of Kilpack’s exceptional writing. The descriptions of the Knights of Ril facing their adversaries are so vivid, you’ll feel the chill of cold rain, the steel of battle tactics and the agony of loss alongside them. Dive into the New Blood Saga, and I assure you, you won’t be disappointed. I loved the book!” — Jose F. Nodar, author of Books, Pens & Larceny (South Wales, Australia)
• 5/5 Stars — "Embark on a captivating journey with W.D. Kilpack III's Rilari: Book Four of New Blood, a tale that expertly weaves tension, mystery, and awe-inspiring heroism. Kilpack's world-building skillfully combines politics, magic, and ancient lore, creating a rich tapestry for readers to explore. The characters, especially Natharr and the Knights of Ril, are well-developed, and the dynamic between Nathan and his summoned companion adds depth and heart to the story. Kilpack successfully incorporates profound themes of resilience and unity into the gripping plot, leaving readers emotionally connected. Riliari is a triumph, offering an enthralling adventure filled with courage and the enduring spirit of humanity." — BooksShelf.com
• 5/5 Stars — “Rilari thrilled, shocked, and entertained me from the very first page! Utterly brilliant! An incredible story full of action and adventure ... with beloved characters [that] must overcome and fight in a world of turmoil! Rilari is a magnificent story full of many exciting moments. Readers will be kept on edge. They will feel compelled to keep reading. That is the sheer beauty of this novel! W.D. Kilpack III effortlessly took me on a thrilling journey, kept me intrigued as well as entertained. It is the kind of book that is impossible to put down, and when I had to, I longed for it! I wanted to be reunited with the story I had grown to love and the characters I had become invested in. Kilpack has written an unforgettable novel that features heavily on its characters and themes. His characters are superb, and I think every reader will be able to invest in them. They are believable, and their narratives jump right off the page and into the reader’s mind. If you are tired of reading the same old books that are lackluster and forgettable, then take a chance with Rilari. I promise you that you will not be disappointed! Five stars from me!” — RedHeadedBookLover.com
• 5/5 Stars — "In Rilari, the reader is brought back to the saga of New Blood. I am a big fan of W. D. Kilpack III, and read whatever this author writes, especially this saga. It's pretty amazing! Not all long reads can hold the reader's attention, but this one does. Incredible characters, and they are written as you can imagine people, with layers and depth, and growth throughout the stories. Natharr is one unforgettable character, strong and decisive, but also with grand flaws that all heroes should have: humanity. Guardian of Maarihk is what keeps the world together, but if the world falls into chaos and destruction, who can protect it? A very unpredictable story, my favorite kind! This story is a wondrous trail of words. What a fantasy marvel! I think this was my favorite one so far, and I know there is more to read. Rilari is both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. Rilari is a definite recommendation." — Amy's Bookshelf Reviews
• 4.5/5 Stars — "Rilari is an excellent instalment in the New Blood Saga, providing thrilling action, heartfelt sorrow and much more! Rilari expands heavily upon the world-building and magic contained within the New Blood Saga. The Rilari themselves are a perfect source for the intricacy, nuance and overall development of the story through these elements. Also, if you enjoy travel and exploration of new lands and cultures then you will love this book. I am amazed with how well Kilpack portrays each member of the Rilari. Despite the extensive cast of characters, I am becoming quite familiar with most, if not all of them. Now, while I enjoyed my time with the Rilari, I was also itching to get back to some other characters that I had become intimately invested in. Let’s just say that things took quite the turn here and I eagerly await the next book. It will be a tough wait, indeed!"— Usman, host of Bards and Books YouTube channel (British Columbia, Canada)

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