Secrets of Urthis

by K.D. Lumsden

In a world where metal sings with raw power, Irwin Miner’s gift marks him as either savior or destroyer.

For nineteen years, he survived his father’s brutality in the isolated mines of Urthis. Now his rare ability to manipulate metal has become both a blessing and a curse. Each surge of his growing powers draws him deeper into a realm of ancient mysteries and deadly secrets.

When Irwin meets the captivating telepath Yace and her fierce shapeshifting companion Kipp, he dares to dream of belonging. But their fragile bond shatters as Yace vanishes after a devastating encounter with her past. Hunted by the tyrannical Ishik Empire and haunted by shadows that shouldn’t exist, Irwin must master his abilities before they consume him.

Every ally could be an enemy. Every choice could lead to destruction. And somewhere in the darkness, Yace’s screams echo in his mind, driving him toward a confrontation that will shake the foundations of Urthis itself.

With its unique magic system and unforgettable characters, “Secrets of Urthis” weaves a spellbinding tale of betrayal, redemption, and the price of power. Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson’s intricate world building and Sarah J. Maas’s emotional depth.

Discover why readers can’t put down this stunning fantasy debut. Let the magic of metal sweep you away on an unforgettable adventure.

Genres: Fantasy

301 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 27, 23

About the author

KD Lumsden was raised on a small farm where her youth was spent running away from angry bulls, riding horses, fishing, camping, and daydreaming about fantastic worlds. Born dyslexic, she has learned to use her neurodivergent mind for the good of mankind—creatures on other planets are another story. Though she’s not a fast reader or writer, her mind flies with many stories, eagerly waiting to be told. Better with numbers and art, KD became an architectural designer long before it was cool to work from home, and has always enjoyed drawing, creating maps, laying out and designing buildings, and of course other worldly planets with amazing settings and diverse people. She lives on a farm outside Eugene, Oregon, with her supportive husband, imaginative son, and their many two and four-legged animals.

SECRETS OF URTHIS (Book 1) was selected for SPFBO 11 in 2026.

Reviews

[Marinal Elwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets of Urthis is a gripping fantasy debut that fuses raw emotion with a vividly original magic system. Irwin Miner’s journey from the brutal mines to the heart of ancient power is both heartbreaking and exhilarating. With unforgettable characters like the mysterious Yace and her shapeshifting companion, and the looming threat of the Ishik Empire, this story delivers high stakes, deep secrets, and relentless suspense. Fans of Brandon Sanderson and Sarah J. Maas will be hooked by its emotional depth and world-shaking twists. A powerful tale of identity, betrayal, and the dangerous beauty of magic.

[Merriann Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a different fantasy style than I usually read. I'm more of the dragons & magical power kind of reader. This book has magical powers and shapeshifting. The MMC, Irwin, seems more human and relatable, which I really enjoyed. He takes us on an adventure through his world, Urthis. He's high up in the mountains and seeking a flat, warmer place to live. On this journey, we see that he's just a young man, trying to heal from a very traumatic life. Along his journey he's growing and figuring out the type of person he wants to become. To me, this book has more depth than the typical fantasy and that's refreshing. Such great storylines too. I'm curious to see how things go for the rest of Irwin's journey and life. Definitely a good read.

[Angus Irish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book I've been waiting/wanting to read! It's not full of the typical tropes you find in fantasy. Simply it's about Irwin, a gay man with a horrific past, searching for love and acceptance. He's a man on a mission, who's overcome so much. And the friends he finds are true friends, people you want on your side when stuff hits the fan! I am excited to read the next book in this series. I was recommended Secrets of Urthis by a coworker. I will shout it out to my friends, LGBTQ or not!

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot recommend this book enough and have already added the series to my Christmas list! The world building and characters make this a book that I plan to read again in the future.

If you enjoy fantasy books that take place in a whole new world, this one is for you!