Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Elmerïan Chronicles #2

The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom

Rate this book
Bör Mesari burns. Velensmir is on the brink of war with Grayhorn. The dwarves return to the light. The druidic Gods are on the move.

And the Ashen Empire has risen.

Aric and Eldras reunite to find themselves thrust under the shadow of prophecy and a choice that will change the world forever. One path will see them in someone else's shackles, while the other is painted in secrets and lies.

Moro and Trenara prepare to part ways as he discovers the mistake he made that will bathe the lands in blood. His powers grow and he begins to hear a voice bound to his fate and soul.

In the south, Donalis discovers the dark plans of the High King to rewrite the map of Verilia as three cities collide. Now, he must make the choice to remain loyal to his king, or hold onto his morals.


Death will meet Life as unforeseen enemies are revealed. Old foes reemerge. Alliances form in the most unlikely. When the rise of the Shadow bond threatens every faction, can heroes prevail where all else have failed before?

742 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 15, 2024

73 people are currently reading
165 people want to read

About the author

Corey Ratliff

11 books71 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
90 (56%)
4 stars
55 (34%)
3 stars
11 (6%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for ♥Milica♥.
1,951 reviews760 followers
May 27, 2024
“May your spears outreach your enemy’s blades, my queen.”

No no no no no no no absolutely not, there's no way it ended like that, I refuse to believe it...WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WITH MY LIFE NOW???

If after book one you thought it couldn't get any wilder, YOU THOUGHT WRONG! This book is bananas, but in the best way. I feel as if I've been thrown into a washing machine on the highest setting, spat back out and I'm still saying thank you at the end. I could've also said roller-coaster like a normal person, but where's the fun in that?

Anyway yes, if you want to experience the full spectrum of emotions, you have to read this series. You will laugh, you will cry, you will scream in frustration and curse the author's name and you will be in pain for all eternity, BUT it'll be worth it.

Bloods of a Withering Kingdom has never heard of second book syndrome, it's, dare I say, even better than Whispers of a World Breaker which I didn't think was possible, because that book is perfection.

We get expanded lore (dwarves!), family drama (did not see any of it coming 10/10), Moro gets more PoVs (as he should), there's a dash of romance (oh la la) but not huge so romance besties don't get your hopes up, Eldras and Aric train with the man the myth the legend Tirian (if bad why cool) but ultimately discover he's not completely sane in the membrane (bummer). And that's just a fraction of this amazing absolutely brilliant book that you need to pick up RIGHT NOW.

There's so much action that it's hard to catch a breath, the battle scenes are expertly written and I can never get enough, except when, you know, my favourite characters are on the brink of death.

Which reminds me, I read in the acknowledgements that the author can't promise us our faves will remain safe throughout the series...I know that's a little jokey joke Mr Ratliff, you would never hurt me like that, right? Exactly.

(Yes, that's me crying in the distance)

Both books so far (and the novella) are really fast paced and trust me when I say, it's super easy to get into the series, Corey's made it even easier for you by including a recap at the start!! That actually came in handy, even though I've constantly been thinking about this world since the first book.

The twists are just magnificent, if Ratliff ever wrote a thriller I'd be first in line to read it because I know I'd never guess a thing. I love how shocked I was at each reveal, it made me feel like a little kid finding presents under the Christmas/New Years tree.

Now the character development...wow. As a fan of Tirian since the prequel (which you should read if you haven't yet), I am both crushed and in love with the direction his character is going in. The signs were there for sure. He's becoming more unhinged by the day and it's really fun to read, despite him being very wrong in his beliefs.

Aric, Eldras and Moro grew so much over the course of the book, I feel like a proud mother, those are my babies, look at them go!! Aric and Eldras found their rhythm for the most part, but Moro went through A LOT. I'm so curious how he'll continue to develop considering recent events.

Circling back to the ending to let you know that it's the mother of all cliffhangers and you will cry. Words cannot describe how I'm feeling right now.

If you would like to go through a similar degree of emotional damage, then I can't recommend this series enough.

*Huge thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for ShannaBanana✨.
548 reviews40 followers
June 9, 2024
Just wow. This one was better than the first and even more heartbreaking. I want more of Nathalior and some brotherly bonding. Aric has never been my favorite but I do like Donalis and I really liked Moro 🥺 I hope it isn’t a long wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Recanna.
7 reviews
March 31, 2024
I was given an ARC of the novel by Corey. Thank you Corey for giving me the chance to read and review this book ahead of release!

My initial thought upon finishing The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom was "Shit fucking hell. That ending. I need book 3. Where is book 3?!?!?!" I cannot stress enough how much of an emotional roller coaster this book is. You might think you're prepared. You are not.

The emotional trauma the characters are put through is real and Corey makes you feel it in a truly masterful way. I felt their confusion, their anger, their grief. There were times I wanted to throw my kindle.

The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom continues at the same breakneck pace of Whispers of a World Breaker. Corey's ability write compelling and detailed fight scenes is really highlighted in this book. I could mentally picture every punch and kick.

The world building in Bloods of a Withering Kingdom continues to showcase just how fantastic of a story teller Corey really is. Each character's unique experiences and motivations are woven together to form a hugely complex story that does not disappoint.

I cannot praise this book enough. The plot, the characters, the world. I love it all. I highly recommend this series to all who enjoy emotionally complex stories with deep plots.
Profile Image for Blaise.
471 reviews149 followers
April 10, 2024
And done! I’m dead and broken. This book alone holds enough story to fill a trilogy and I can’t believe what I just read. This is how you write a sequel. Bound and the Broken fans need to read this. My top book of the year bar none!
Profile Image for Chris.
207 reviews7 followers
April 5, 2024
This ARC was provided by the author for an honest review. Corey has something special here. His world building and the history involved is in depth and exciting. The characters feel real with their development and the emotions that they show. The story flows smoothly from one chapter to the next no matter the POV. This book starts off right where book 1 left off and I must say that one thing I really really appreciate is the story so far Corey has placed before chapter 1. I think all books need this! I was so excited for another piece of this expansive world to unfold, and we finally get DWARVES!!! My brain about flew out of my head multiple times throughout this book but everything flowed nice and the pacing went really well. There were some moments in this book that hit me hard emotionally and took me back to old memories. The way these scenes are written was beautiful and very well done. There are some absolutely insane things that happen with the dwarves and orcs, Aric and Moro, and Paulus and Donalis. All parties in this book were so interesting to me by the end of this book, I didn’t want it to end. The amount of times I gasped and said, “Oh, snap!” was crazy. The battle scenes were vivid and very well written! The ending of this one will have you raging and crying and sad and feeling emotions on both far ends of the spectrum but oh my is it worth it. Overall, this is a compelling and very well writing story that is a perfect sequel to Whispers of a World Breaker. No second book lag here! Check this out, please please please!!!!
Profile Image for Boris Williams.
14 reviews
April 25, 2024
I’ve read a lot of fantasy novels over the years and while they all have their good and bad points, this book series is by far the best. I know I say this after ready almost ever captivating story but this is different. Corey’s description of characters and scenes stem from a deep understanding of what he meant to create—the world building is incredible. The only downside is that I have to wait for however long to read the third book.
I would recommend this book for the rest of my life.
Profile Image for Alex McNally.
5 reviews1 follower
May 1, 2024
This book starts off quickly and doesn’t stop, not even for the end. After needing to wait for this book, there is a recap at the beginning so you can just dive right in. I highly recommend reading the novella before this, but it is not necessary. This book picks up directly after the first book. Not only does the story and history evolve more through this book, so does the author’s writing. The fighting and battle scenes are so intense and well-crafted, but the small, intimate moments between characters are touching and heartwarming. I found myself wanting to stop reading, not because of poor writing, but because I wanted the characters to be able to take a break from the suffering and enjoy where they were. Also, the dwarves are amazing and I’m so glad they were brought into this world in this book. There are a ton of moments that will leave you in tears whether it’s through the heartbreak of loss and tragedy or through the touching moments between family members. I know this book was just released, but I am eagerly anticipating anything that takes me back to this world again and to see what happens after the fallout from the final chapter. Now remember: “If war is upon us, then war becomes us.”
Profile Image for Jeremy Schwab.
62 reviews17 followers
April 20, 2024
What in the name of Dragon fire just happened!?? Wow, the ending of this second book just shook every emotion in me to the core...

Firstly, I was given an ARC of this entry in "Elmerian Chronicles" from Corey for an honest review of "The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom". I have been blessed with snippets and early chapters for the past few months, and had many a discussion with our fearless author about his vision and expectations for book 2. As excited as I was to finally get a finished version...I was not prepared for the ride we embarked on! 🤯

We pick up seamlessly from the tumultuous ending in book 1 and fly right into the ongoing action of book 2. Aric and Eldras continue the fight they seem to be at the core of and strengthen their bond to new heights. Moro, Trenara and the Orc's find themselves on different paths and trials...but with the same end?...Humans and Elf's draw lines both seem determined to cross, and what's this emerging from the roots of the mountains!? Yes, add all this to the endless magic and massive Dragons, you have the very ride I'm telling you that you are NOT ready for!! 🔥

Ratliff flexes his penmanship and adds even more depth to his world building and characters. Twists, turns and dives that even the eldest dragons of the court couldn't keep up with, our thoughts are proven wrong, emotions are tested, beaten, tested again...then burned to the ground and bonds are hammered like a blade being crafted on an anvil!! Corey holds absolutely nothing back and not a single character is safe from his Epic, yet brutal storytelling. You will no doubt be sucked into this book, turning pages faster than Eldras can fly, and at the same time cursing Corey and his relentless heartbreak involving his characters. There isn't an emotion you won't experience during this firestorm.

Another ending that will have you reaching for a stiff drink (and possibly Corey's DM's for a chat! 😤) is what you can expect. Book 3 needs to be in my email immediately!! Mr Ratliff you have outdone yourself...now explain yourself!! What a ride, let's do it again! 🔥

Easy 4⭐ and I want answers!! Well done!! "Bloods of a Withering Kingdom" is a must read!! 📚🍻
Profile Image for Jennifer.
37 reviews4 followers
April 15, 2024
This is the second book in the Elmerian Chronicles. If you haven't read the first one, then please stop reading, go get the first one and then you can read this review. 'Kay? Good. I'll try to not spoil it too much, just give tidbits of things to come.

NB: I was an alpha reader of this book and an ARC reader so I got to see the bloopers too before the final edit. I will never see quirking the same way again.

Whispers of a World Breaker (WoaWB) was a meet the characters at the beginning of their journey. The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom is much more packed with action and fast paced.

In the first chapter Aric is rescued by Tirian from his prison but not all is as it seems, Tirian's real purpose starts coming to light. As Aric and Eldras grow (Eldras physically and Aric with his mage power), they both find out that Tirian is not the person they thought he was. There was a sentence that I literally stopped reading immediately to message Corey saying "SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!" Apparently he found this hilarious. I will leave you to find that moment.

Moro's journey is also getting good. We discover more about where his magic comes from and what the gems in his chest really do. Also will he kill Aric as promised at the end of WoaWB or will they reconcile? Will he ever see his beloved again?

In this book we meet the dwarves. They are both your typical dwarves you meet in most fantasy books as in living in mountains, mining, ale etc, but also they aren't really your typical dwarf clan. Those chapters are so good. I am looking forward to more from them.

King Paulus has grand designs for himself, but underestimates his right hand man, Donalis. When a alliance comes up with a marriage proposal, Paulus is eager to control the young Queen Mara by using Donalis as a pawn. But Mara is not the meek damsel in distress you think she is.

This book was a rollercoaster of thrills. Just as WoaWB, I got sucked into this world completely. I cried, I laughed, I held my breath and I swore as well. I love this book more than WoaWB, we are well into the series now as things are now speeding along nicely.

I highly recommend this book if you love fantasy, dragons, orcs, elves, dwarves, magic and all that jazz as this is pretty stuffed full of all the things I love about fantasy. I did not get bored and although there might be slight references to other fantasy books, this is a book that can easily hold it's own in the fantasy market.
Profile Image for James H.
42 reviews4 followers
April 8, 2024
"If war is upon us, war becomes us."

*ARC for honest review

What a cliff hanger of an ending. Corey really stepped it in this second installment of the Elmerïan Chronicles. Aric, Moro, and everyone else goes through A LOT. I love how mature the content is without feeling over the top. The battle scenes are intense, but so are the feelings associated with violence. It makes the story feel gritty and real.

I really appreciate how much broader the focus of this second book is. We get a ton of world building, lore, and unique magic systems that fleshes out the story without info-dumping. While reading the book, I initially felt a few of the a POVs were rushed, but finishing the book, I see there was a reason for those POVs. I'm real excited to see how Corey wraps up the series and what happens to the world in the wakes of the Ashen Empire. Will the prophesied Elmerïan destroy the world or save the world? No matter what, it'll forever be changed.
1 review
May 20, 2024
Best read in a long time!

I've always loved the fantasy genre and how it can pull me away into such wonder, and Corey has done this beautifully. This is such an amazing world he has built, and it feels so alive. I was so mad (in a good way) when I finished the second book, and I really do hope he continues this series! Please, Corey, I NEED to know that Aric and Eldras will be okay!!!
4 reviews
May 7, 2025
This book was interesting. The author was able to take many different story lines and continue to weave them together in the land of whim and wonder featuring elves, dwarves, orcs, and humans. I have been in this fantasy realm for most of my reading career and this author was able to still create new awe and wonder. Talk about cliff hanger at the end as well!
8 reviews
June 15, 2024
I really like the premise, the magic system and the main characters but I'm having a tough time with some of the relationships and pace of this story. They both feel rushed and forced at times. Hopefully this will all come together in book 3.
28 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2024
Interesting story, writing is meh

The story concept is interesting. Interactions between races is unique. My only issue is the actual quality of the writing. Book 2 was better than 1. So here I go picking up book 3 and hoping for a strong ending
18 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2024
first two books awesome

Lately I’ve been reading many books in this particular category and this series all though incomplete is the best of all the rest,there is action, magic,back stories and just plain good writing. More than enough to keep the reader slipping off his chair.Cannot wait for the next installment, well done Corey
13 reviews
May 15, 2024
Good book

Bla bla . . ....... . . . . . . . . . . . . .
It's so hard to give reviews now adays
Profile Image for Danny.
18 reviews3 followers
May 27, 2024
This book has quickly become my favourite read this year. It ends with such a cliffhanger that I need book 3 asap!

The characters are well written, the story is magnificent, and the world is beautiful and deadly!

Easy 5/5 for me!
Profile Image for Graff Fuller.
2,101 reviews32 followers
April 20, 2024
The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom by Corey Ratliff - 2nd book in The Elmerïan Chronicles

Adventurous, challenging, dark, emotional,
hopeful, inspiring, mysterious, reflective,
sad, and tense.

Medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5 Stars

OMG, you wound me, sir.

I love how you took the story from the first book, and ratcheted it up to Level 100. Oof. I'm winded by reading the end.

The way that you've created the tension between characters, races and the nations of this realm has been amazing. I have switched alliances...multiple times. I have a new appreciation for the elves, the orcs, the dwarves, and the humans. They all have their histories and goals (both righteous/nefarious), but IF you are within this culture...you do not always see the creap from one position to the next. How did we get HERE (in the reflection on whether we were right or wrong) in the process?

This was a great story...and I cannot believe that we are left...were we ARE, at the end of the book. I'll say no more. Oof.

Aric is the main character (and we, as per usual...want to root for him), but in this book, I felt that Moro got his flowers. His arc is SO good, and goes through so many transition points...that at times, he's my favourite character. I truly FEEL for him and his struggles.

I also, have to say...that Tirian has GOT to be the WORST parent/grand-parent of all-time (opposite of the G.O.A.T.).

His lust for power and the results that occur are life changing for EVERYONE the realm. He is truly a despicable person. Ugh.

Love how the story of the dwarves was incrimentally added to the main storyline. Their effect on the plot has been steadily increased...and I'm here for it.

I have to admit, that THAT storyline was my least favourite for SO long, but now...looking back, I see what you've done, and am thankful.

You did NOT shy away from DEATH in this book. I'm gutted, and I'm truly not sure where we go from here. I really don't know where we (YOU) go from this point.

I also know, that this is a fantastical world...and death, may not always mean death. So, with that said...I'm hoping for the best, but I am also bracing myself for the worst. Since Game of Thrones (The Song of Ice and Fire) did what it did, anything goes, but it is not only tough for us readers...it's got to be even tougher for the writers. Yikes.

Love the worldbuilding that was done in this book, and how the characters intertwine with the areas that they are in and fight. Also, how the cultures of the different races...bring different talents and influences to our band of heroes. Learning to overlook the prejudices toward races, and to hold individuals and group to account and NOT the entire race. Love that theme, too.

After finishing the book, I realized that my Pre-Order never went through...and immediately bought the book. I will be rereading this book (possibly when the next one is published...and please let me know that it is soon).

And lastly, the ideas of brotherhood, shared experiences (good/bad), prejudices, flawed characters being put into conflicting and perilous positions, and all in a world with GREAT power, but also with quick deaths. If this is the type of story that you want to read, then this is YOUR next favourite series. 

It is unflinching and harsh, but IF the stakes are truly high, then the defeats/results (whether good or bad) should be equal to the task. 

Readers will be gutted, when reading this story, but they are "gutted" because they were invested in the characters, the world and the story being told. 

I say it again, "you wound me, sir."
Profile Image for Jonathan.
32 reviews
April 15, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders

Blurb:
Bör Mesari burns. Velensmir is on the brink of war with Grayhorn. The dwarves return to the light. The druidic Gods are on the move.
And the Ashen Empire has risen.
Aric and Eldras reunite to find themselves thrust under the shadow of prophecy and a choice that will change the world forever. One path will see them in someone else's shackles, while the other is painted in secrets and lies.
Moro and Trenara prepare to part ways as he discovers the mistake he made that will bathe the lands in blood. His powers grow and he begins to hear a voice bound to his fate and soul.
In the south, Donalis discovers the dark plans of the High King to rewrite the map of Verilia as three cities collide. Now, he must make the choice to remain loyal to his king, or hold onto his morals.
Death will meet Life as unforeseen enemies are revealed. Old foes reemerge. Alliances form in the most unlikely. When the rise of the Shadow bond threatens every faction, can heroes prevail where all else have failed before?
Review:
Got this book a few days ago as a digital ARC copy in the mail, and before that was forewarned by someone who has read the book that I would want to chase Ratliff with a pitchfork after I read the emotional roller coaster that is called “The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom”. Read the book, finished it, set it down, and looked up where to get a pitchfork. That is mentioned humorously, as I quite enjoyed the novel, but the feeling of wanting to scream out my frustration was there.
Bloods of a Withering Kingdom by Corey Ratliff
If you haven’t read the first novel, “Whispers of a World Breaker”, I would recommend reading that first. If you want to immediately jump off the deep end into this book, here is a quick, non spoilery synopsis for the previous book:
“Two friends, Aric and Moro, get attacked by orcs while guarding a dragon birthing an egg. After the orcs attack, Aric gets separated from Moro, who gets kidnapped by the orcs and learns their ways. Aric meanwhile has a dragon hatch for him. Shenanigans ensue, and at the end of the book the two friends want to murder each other.”
Now that that is out of the way, “The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom” is a novel that looks at a roller coaster, says: “I want to be that” and then proceeds to drag you through the wringer. I say this because I spent about 50% of the book curled up on a beanbag wondering what would happen to the intrepid heroes of this tale. Turns out, a lot. By the end of it, I wanted to hug Aric and Moro for the suffering they went through.
Does that mean I disliked the book? Not at all, I’d recommend it and “Whispers of a World Breaker” to friends and family if they want to read a book with dragons in it or they’ve read the Inheritance Cycle or even both.
What did I like about the book? Well, a lot of things.
First of all, continued story development. If you’ve read the previous book, you know that Aric and Moro had some personal growth, as well as the other people. This book takes what they were at the end of the “Whispers of a World Breaker”, and expands that immensely.
Aric slowly becomes more of a Dragon Rider, learning the tricks of the trade while his family is doing whatever families do while he’s out and about. Moro, having gained new powers throughout book one, learns how to use and control it. And the other people are also having their character growths, including Trenara and Donalis.
And then the plot. The plot was definitely something. Not only was it a roller coaster, but it also sent me hiding in the corner of the basement from the suffering I vicariously felt from the characters reading. Enjoyed the pacing a lot. Didn’t feel like anything was added extra or was removed.
Prose went just about as expected and felt great to read through.
What did I not like?
Not much, at least logically, but emotionally? My emotions would like to file a petition for less hurt feelings. Was not expecting to have my emotions punched this many times. That’s it. Nothing else really felt out of place.
Thank you for reading to the end of this review, if you have reached the end of it. If this isn’t your cup of tea, I’d recommend checking out other reviews from people on this site for other genres and other opinions. Hopefully we’ve helped you along the way finding your next read.
Profile Image for Ariana Weldon.
279 reviews21 followers
April 3, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders

This is the second book from Corey Ratliff in the Elmerïan Chronicles and I have to say, he has packed everything and the kitchen sink into these 500-something pages. Now I should say, I was both an alpha and ARC reader for this so I’ll do my best to talk about this book purely from the ARC reader perspective (but also for all the quirking eyebrows I shamed Corey into removing, you’re welcome).

The story picks up where we left off. Aric is in prison and separated from Eldras, Moro is with the orcs on their new (old?) home, King Paulus and Donalis have just arrived in Maervorna. If you’ve read through Whispers of a World Breaker (and I hope you did because this is book 2 and you would be very confused otherwise), you’ll know that Corey likes a lot of action. So, while we start where we ended, for Moro and Aric everything is quickly on fire both figuratively and literally. Donalis’ storyline is a little slower to get going but when it does, it’s everything and then some.

We also get a lot of the faces and dragons from the novella Ashes of a Risen Empire, which if you haven’t read it you might want to for added context to all this. Aside from the return of our favourite characters from Whispers, and those we may have loved/hated/generally were ambivalent towards in Ashes, there is a constant growing cast in Bloods of a Withering Kingdom. This is the first time we meet the dwarves of this world and I have to say these were some of my favourite chapters. Followed by Mara and Donalis, I just think those two are going to take over the world. Great power couple. Anyway, back to the dwarves. There are a few chapters that focus on them sprinkled about but I just found them really compelling. I would like more dwarf chapters next time, Corey, if you’re taking requests.

I would be entirely remiss if I didn’t mention the emotional punches and rage certain parts brought to my existence. I may or may not have even threatened to fight/sue Corey. It’s fine, we’re still good. Unlike Whispers, which set the world, gave us Eldras and whatever weird magic Moro was being imbued with, Bloods is like “Have some background, have some twists, have some ‘I don’t know who to trust anymore’, have some Eldras making dragon friends and having a little romance (actually quite a funny scene).

Although it’s got everything, we still leave off with a few mysteries, so much more to find out, fix, grow etc., and an ending that sent me and a few other people into the mental white room of zen rage. Like stubbing your emotional pinky toe on the table. As I said on the first book, if you like dragon-rider books, and particularly ones written for adult readers, Elmerïan Chronicles is well worth picking up. I’m doubling down on this. Read the books.

Profile Image for The Fabled Keeper.
77 reviews7 followers
May 8, 2025
The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom takes the Elmerian Chronicles to new heights.

TBoaWK capitalizes on all the thread lines from Whispers of a World Breaker and Ashes of a Risen Kingdom. Readers of the prequal novella are especially rewarded. The plot becomes fully realized and the scope increases tenfold.

Bloods opens up right after the events of the ending of book 1. In Ratliff fashion, we are thrown right into the bloody, brutal world that he has created. We are immediately reunited with Aric.

Aric's journey throughout this book was fantastic. Through many trials and revelations, we see this character truly grow. Although I liked Aric in Whispers, I felt he was a bit stale. I think Aric really comes into his own here.

Moro's story also continues, and while I do enjoy Moro's chapters, I had a bit of trouble connecting with his story early on. I did realize later that I should trust the author here a bit more, as the payoff for this character was really cool and cleared up some of the issues I had initially.

Donalis had my favorite early chapters. There is also a cast of new PoV characters and secondary characters that I really enjoyed. Gunardt especially.

The story really opens up in this entry and the twists and turns are absolutely never ending. Ratliff spins webs on webs. Reveal after revelation unfold in dramatic fashion and I am looking forward to book 3 after that absolutely heart stopping conclusion to Bloods.

I recommend that any dragon fan pick up this series. Ratliff puts his own, fresh, adult take on the genre while still keeping the familiar.
Profile Image for Vivian Cicero.
42 reviews10 followers
August 16, 2024
I have read the first two books in the Elmerïan Chronicles series; Whispers Of A World Breaker, and now Bloods of A Withering Kingdom.

We are introduced to our protagonist, Aric, in book one, and he is a soldier in a seemingly endless war between the elves and orcs. Their purpose is to keep safe the dragon eggs which must be taken to the high elves city.

The elves jealously guard the eggs, claiming only elves may bond with a dragon. This gets turned on its head, as we are pulled further into the story.

Treachery, deceit, and what was thought true, are all told in the viewpoint of our rough and ready soldier, Aric.

In book two, we are pulled in seamlessly. The stakes are now higher, the line between friend and foe is now blurred, and obliterated. And this one keeps picking up steam. I found that Mr. Ratliff really found his rhythm in this one, and I could not put it down.

The relationships between the characters becomes more complex, the writing has become more compelling, and I found myself on more than one occasion, holding my breath, or gasping out loud because of what was unfolding on the page.

The end of Bloods Of a Withering Kingdom just wrenched my heart out. He really threw a punch that hit hard!

I recommend getting these if you enjoy a flawed hero, dragons, and epic battles between the darkness and light. You won’t regret it!
Profile Image for Shahid.
317 reviews31 followers
May 22, 2024
The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom by Corey Ratliff is an enthralling fantasy epic that grips readers with its intricate plot and rich character development. The story unfolds amidst the turmoil of Bör Mesari's destruction and the imminent war between Velensmir and Grayhorn. The narrative intricately weaves together the fates of various characters, including Aric and Eldras, who face a world-changing prophecy, and Moro and Trenara, who grapple with a dire mistake that threatens to engulf the land in bloodshed.

Ratliff masterfully crafts a vivid world where dwarves emerge from hiding, druidic gods stir, and the sinister Ashen Empire rises. The characters' struggles and choices are compelling, particularly Donalis, who faces a moral dilemma regarding the High King's dark ambitions.

This is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts. Its blend of prophecy, intrigue, and moral conflict ensures a gripping and memorable experience.





Profile Image for Dion.
128 reviews4 followers
August 18, 2024
10 out of 5 stars this book is just absolutely amazing after not having read a published book in quite some time because of several things this book hooked me in that I managed to finish it in about 2 days.
This book has so many unexpected twist and turns I never knew what i could expect but one thing is sure i absolutely love this book. The world building, characters and just everything is so good I can't wait to read book 3 when it's finally out but one thing is sure i absolutely recommended this series if you love dragon riders and adult epic dark fantasy.
152 reviews1 follower
April 10, 2024
The second book was even better than the first! Proof that the sequel is not always worse.

Cory's writing is enthralling. The fact that he has each faction present themselves as "the Good Guys" and with valid reasoning is amazing. Usually, the story is "black and white" (good versus evil). The Elmerïan Chronicles does an amazing job at showing the "grays" of the world...without you disliking the hero!

I am looking forward to Book Three (and Four, and Five, etc.).
22 reviews
April 19, 2024
An excellent follow up to book 1, getting to the last page and I was like fcuk you can't end it there lol.

Plenty of twists with great story telling and engaging characters that veers away from the mire of self pity that some books get bogged down in. Very much looking forward to book 3 and maybe a continuation of this series.
1 review
April 26, 2025
I wish I liked it more

The bones of a good story are there but the interactions and characters just feel thin. I also felt the dialogue was a bit childish and almost forced. Made I through book one but lost interest midway through this one.
Profile Image for Melissa Mancuso.
14 reviews1 follower
January 17, 2026
So many emotions were flowing throughout this book. The Bloods of a Withering Kingdom took Whispers of a World Breaker to the next level. The action, the surprises, all the feels... A few things really fell into place with connections made between characters. We finally meet a genuinely good race and start to learn who from other races we can start to trust more.

I give books five stars when events pull on my heart strings in such a way that I feel more connected to the book. This book did an excellent job with that. It left me in awe until the very last page.

I left every chapter wanting to know what was going to happen next, but beginning another pov never threw me off and caught my interest right away.
17 reviews
November 24, 2024
This series is amazing!, I really liked the first book but this one is even more epic and now I dont know what to do until the third book!
This is now on my top 10, is really that good
13 reviews
February 4, 2025
Love Eldris..

Im not very good at writing reviews. But this series has been a great adventure. I cannot wait for the next book.
I fell in love with Eldris and his sassy ways.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.