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Shattered Empire #3
Of Echoes and Flames
Echoes haunt the land. Flames devour all light.
A brutal siege grips the ancient city of Renekah. Beyond the pyres blazing by the battlements, dark fog shrouds deep woods where monsters watch and wait.
A survivor of the latest battle, Derrik pursues Lanfareth, the woman who killed his father and stole a deadly artifact. A former logger, Derrik is like a lamb hunting a wolf, for Lanfareth grasps the whole empire in fear. He sets a trap, unaware of the devastating secrets it might lure along with the killer…
Even as Derrik battles his own nightmare, the dreaded Saitaan drags Derrik’s friend into a realm where even trees yearn for blood... With each stride, the pursuing band of mages, elves, and dragons plunges deeper into evil shadows. Death is not waiting. Death looms and descends.
Derrik believes that Lanfareth holds the power to shatter the world, while the pursuers fear Saitaan will achieve the same through his captive. But the truth is much more terrifying…
A brutal siege grips the ancient city of Renekah. Beyond the pyres blazing by the battlements, dark fog shrouds deep woods where monsters watch and wait.
A survivor of the latest battle, Derrik pursues Lanfareth, the woman who killed his father and stole a deadly artifact. A former logger, Derrik is like a lamb hunting a wolf, for Lanfareth grasps the whole empire in fear. He sets a trap, unaware of the devastating secrets it might lure along with the killer…
Even as Derrik battles his own nightmare, the dreaded Saitaan drags Derrik’s friend into a realm where even trees yearn for blood... With each stride, the pursuing band of mages, elves, and dragons plunges deeper into evil shadows. Death is not waiting. Death looms and descends.
Derrik believes that Lanfareth holds the power to shatter the world, while the pursuers fear Saitaan will achieve the same through his captive. But the truth is much more terrifying…
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2025
3 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
P.C. Darkcliff
45 books67 followersReceive my free novella for joining my mailing list: www.pcdarkcliff.com/subscribe
A multi-award-winning author, I have always had a vivid imagination.
When I was in kindergarten, I convinced my classmates that my grandma was a tribal shamaness. Then I learned my letters, and kidding my friends no longer seemed adequate—so I started to write.
My stories have appeared in various publications, and ‘A Poisoned Gift’ received an Honorable Mention in L. Ron Hubbard’s Writers of the Future Contest. I am Spillwords Author of the Year 2020.
Apart from publishing two standalone novels and a historical fantasy trilogy, I've fulfilled my childhood dream and completed an epic fantasy series, The Magic Circle.
I have lived in six countries and on three continents. While it burned a hole in my bank account, the seminomadic lifestyle has inspired most of my stories and novels.
My wife and I have settled in Spain, where I go swimming and cycling whenever I’m not too busy writing and teaching English.
A multi-award-winning author, I have always had a vivid imagination.
When I was in kindergarten, I convinced my classmates that my grandma was a tribal shamaness. Then I learned my letters, and kidding my friends no longer seemed adequate—so I started to write.
My stories have appeared in various publications, and ‘A Poisoned Gift’ received an Honorable Mention in L. Ron Hubbard’s Writers of the Future Contest. I am Spillwords Author of the Year 2020.
Apart from publishing two standalone novels and a historical fantasy trilogy, I've fulfilled my childhood dream and completed an epic fantasy series, The Magic Circle.
I have lived in six countries and on three continents. While it burned a hole in my bank account, the seminomadic lifestyle has inspired most of my stories and novels.
My wife and I have settled in Spain, where I go swimming and cycling whenever I’m not too busy writing and teaching English.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
September 26, 2025
"I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.” Of echoes and flames. This story is simply mesmerizing, with writing that draws the reader in from the very first page. The characters are richly developed, and the world-building is vivid and immersive, creating an unforgettable reading experience. One of the standout elements is the depth of character creation. Heroes shine brightly, but the villains are equally compelling complex, ruthless, and impossible to ignore. With not just one but two formidable antagonists, the stakes are higher than ever. Saitaan challenges Lanforeth in pure malevolence, making the conflict even more gripping.
The narrative picks up after the climactic battle between the forces of light and darkness. Derik, astride his dragon, and Glen survey the aftermath, only to encounter a deadly magical force intent on controlling them. Derik must summon all his strength to resist. Meanwhile, Torsum is determined to destroy Saitaan once and for all, but the battle’s outcome is far from victorious. Captured by the dark lord, he is dragged into the heart of evil, leaving the group divided and facing perilous, separate paths.
The girls journey into the Wrathlands, a treacherous realm filled with danger, aided by the elven chieftain Al’Anark and Derik’s dragon, Dhra’ack. At the same time, the boys set out on a quest to confront Lanforeth and recover the stolen magical battle axe, Tarroth an artifact powerful enough to doom the world if it falls into the wrong hands.
Brimming with action, suspense, and high-stakes adventure, this installment is impossible to put down. Every page builds anticipation, keeping readers glued to the unfolding events. Without question, this series ranks among the best I have ever read. 💛
The narrative picks up after the climactic battle between the forces of light and darkness. Derik, astride his dragon, and Glen survey the aftermath, only to encounter a deadly magical force intent on controlling them. Derik must summon all his strength to resist. Meanwhile, Torsum is determined to destroy Saitaan once and for all, but the battle’s outcome is far from victorious. Captured by the dark lord, he is dragged into the heart of evil, leaving the group divided and facing perilous, separate paths.
The girls journey into the Wrathlands, a treacherous realm filled with danger, aided by the elven chieftain Al’Anark and Derik’s dragon, Dhra’ack. At the same time, the boys set out on a quest to confront Lanforeth and recover the stolen magical battle axe, Tarroth an artifact powerful enough to doom the world if it falls into the wrong hands.
Brimming with action, suspense, and high-stakes adventure, this installment is impossible to put down. Every page builds anticipation, keeping readers glued to the unfolding events. Without question, this series ranks among the best I have ever read. 💛
December 25, 2024
The story continues with the same action and wonderful characters, human, elf, and dragon, and the evil guys are really evil. Story flowed smoothly, following each group with no missing links. Love this series.
July 13, 2025
Wow I am just blown away. This authors writing is simply mesmerizing. This story was so good I read it again. The characters are so well written and the world building is simply fantastic. One of my favorite things about this author is the time spent on character creation. We all know that stories must have hero's but in order for that to happen you must also have villians. Now in this installment the author has not 1 villian but 2. Saitaan is giving Lanforeth a run for her money. Just when I thought Lanforeth was the most evil villian of all times the author introduced me to Saitaan and I was speechless. Mr Darkliff is the master of creating villians the readers love to hate.
The story starts after the battle of the dark & light sides. Derik was on his dragon along with Glen surveying the aftermath of the battle. The trio runs into a magical force that tries to control them and bring death. Derik knows he must overcome it so he uses all his might to do it. Meanwhile Torsum is determined to destroy Saitaan permanently. A battle takes place but doesn't have the desired end results. Torsum finds himself in the evil clutches of the dark lord. Now our heros end up split, yet again, with both sides having unbelievably dangerous adventures. The girls end up having to go into the depths of the Wrathlands to rescue their friend with the help of the elven chieftain Al'Anark, and Derrik's dragon Dhra'ack. Such a horrible place! The boys end up going after the evil & insane Lanfareth to try to recover the stolen magical battle axe, Tarroth, which in the wrong hands will destroy the whole world. So much happens in this book that you will be glued to the pages. A series that is one of the best I have ever read.
The story starts after the battle of the dark & light sides. Derik was on his dragon along with Glen surveying the aftermath of the battle. The trio runs into a magical force that tries to control them and bring death. Derik knows he must overcome it so he uses all his might to do it. Meanwhile Torsum is determined to destroy Saitaan permanently. A battle takes place but doesn't have the desired end results. Torsum finds himself in the evil clutches of the dark lord. Now our heros end up split, yet again, with both sides having unbelievably dangerous adventures. The girls end up having to go into the depths of the Wrathlands to rescue their friend with the help of the elven chieftain Al'Anark, and Derrik's dragon Dhra'ack. Such a horrible place! The boys end up going after the evil & insane Lanfareth to try to recover the stolen magical battle axe, Tarroth, which in the wrong hands will destroy the whole world. So much happens in this book that you will be glued to the pages. A series that is one of the best I have ever read.
May 17, 2025
I read this book with certain expectations, and the author didn’t let me down. I see the difficulty in keeping a series going. Every book has to be a contained story and still be part of a larger world of adventures. Characters can shift in protagonism as new adventures develop. This is fine because, in order to be entertained in the long run, we need new adventures and characters that charm us.
This is the case with PC Darkcliff’s latest novel. I found the character of Derrik Thon entertaining and inviting. For all those readers who enjoy high fantasy and series like this one, you are in for a treat. This book hits all the necessary plot points without boring you. It’s not formulaic; it develops into a natural evolution of the author as a storyteller.
Other elements like a well-developed setting, magic systems, dragons, and battles complete the adventure. I think the author has found a good way to create these books as if each came from a new story world, because that’s how it feels. Kudos!
Get this book. It’s from a writer we know and love. Enjoy the adventure!
This is the case with PC Darkcliff’s latest novel. I found the character of Derrik Thon entertaining and inviting. For all those readers who enjoy high fantasy and series like this one, you are in for a treat. This book hits all the necessary plot points without boring you. It’s not formulaic; it develops into a natural evolution of the author as a storyteller.
Other elements like a well-developed setting, magic systems, dragons, and battles complete the adventure. I think the author has found a good way to create these books as if each came from a new story world, because that’s how it feels. Kudos!
Get this book. It’s from a writer we know and love. Enjoy the adventure!
January 4, 2025
Oh wow! This is book 3 in the Shattered Empire series, that follows the Magic Circle series. The children of the heroes of the Magic Circle series are all grown up, and are now chasing evil, and being chased by it. The evil mage Lanfareth still has the powerful magic artifact that can destroy the world, and is now in hiding from both the Darkside and the Lightside. The group gets separated again, half going on an almost suicidal rescue mission to the Wrathlands, the other half trying to fulfill Derrik's 2 oaths. He must avenge his father's murder, and get Tarroth back, since his has been named it's keeper. Once again, nonstop action. P.C. Darkcliff does not disappoint, epic battles, and plot twists by the boatload. Dragons, magic, and a cast of wonderful, and terrible characters. Come on P.C., I want more!
August 18, 2025
Book three of the Shattered Empire series by P. C. Darkcliff and once again I was glued to the book. There was so much more action, adventure and magic. Derrick, Broose and Glen search for Lanfareth while Al'Arnak, Eriana and Leya head to the Wrathlands on Drha'ack to rescue Torsum. The characters have all grown immensely and continue to grow. And, of course, the world building by Darkcliff is forever effusive, brilliant and magical. I love this book and can't wait to get my hands on the next book. I highly recommend this series!
January 5, 2025
This book was as enjoyable as the others. It dedicates enough time to each of the main characters and flows forward. It goes off in a different direction at the end, but it feels like a natural progression and works well. I thought it was going to be the last one and I’m pleased to announce it isn’t. I’m looking forward to the next one.
January 13, 2025
The heroes must face the consequences of the events Of Chaos and Doom. Both tragedy and triumph unfolded in the second book and the characters must now deal with the aftermath. Each hero is tested in their own way and even the Wrathlords face unexpected challenges. I can't wait to see where the journey takes us!
December 27, 2025
Of Echoes and Flames
Derrick, his friends, and allies continue their noble quest in this completely gripping installment of the Shattered Empire series. I swear these people seem real, with multi-layeed emotions, motivations, and foibles. It's painful when they suffer setbacks and joyous when they achieve successes. Truly, if you love epic fantasy, you need to get this series!
Derrick, his friends, and allies continue their noble quest in this completely gripping installment of the Shattered Empire series. I swear these people seem real, with multi-layeed emotions, motivations, and foibles. It's painful when they suffer setbacks and joyous when they achieve successes. Truly, if you love epic fantasy, you need to get this series!
September 10, 2025
Another great adventure! The author does a fantastic job of continuing to build the world and characters. The story flows nicely which makes it hard to put it down! Now to hurry up and wait for the next adventure!
March 12, 2025
The story is set in a world where the war against the Darkside is intensifying. Derrik Thon is faced with a tough decision: rescue his friend from the clutches of the villain Saitaan, or honor an oath he swore over a dead body. The ice in the capital city of Renekah is cracking, causing floods and blizzards that turn the city into a frozen wasteland. Meanwhile, Lanfareth fears that her hideout beneath the city is becoming a trap. The book is filled with action, great world-building, and intriguing characters. It explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the consequences of war. The world is richly described, with a detailed setting that immerses readers in the story.
Merged review:
The story is set in a world where the war against the Darkside is intensifying. Derrik Thon is faced with a tough decision: rescue his friend from the clutches of the villain Saitaan, or honor an oath he swore over a dead body. The ice in the capital city of Renekah is cracking, causing floods and blizzards that turn the city into a frozen wasteland. Meanwhile, Lanfareth fears that her hideout beneath the city is becoming a trap. The book is filled with action, great world-building, and intriguing characters. It explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the consequences of war. The world is richly described, with a detailed setting that immerses readers in the story.
Merged review:
The story is set in a world where the war against the Darkside is intensifying. Derrik Thon is faced with a tough decision: rescue his friend from the clutches of the villain Saitaan, or honor an oath he swore over a dead body. The ice in the capital city of Renekah is cracking, causing floods and blizzards that turn the city into a frozen wasteland. Meanwhile, Lanfareth fears that her hideout beneath the city is becoming a trap. The book is filled with action, great world-building, and intriguing characters. It explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the consequences of war. The world is richly described, with a detailed setting that immerses readers in the story.
May 16, 2025
The first chapter of this exciting book begins with it being the day after a huge battle. Derrik is riding his dragon Dhar’ack on a reconnaissance mission to survey the Darkside encampment. His buddy Glen is with him. Suddenly, they are overcome by magical forces too strong for Derrik to deal with. Yet he must find a way or else they will die. What a beginning! The reader is immediately drawn in and engaged in the story. Soon, the leader of the Lightside and the leader of the Darkside met in a fight to the death. It’s a thrilling sequence, the kind PC is a master of writing, and it sets the stage for the rest of this incredibly entertaining book. The action is non-stop, the writing is top-notch, and the battle scenes are among the best I’ve ever come across. With a story so complex, and a cast of characters so large and diverse, it would be easy for the writer to stumble and lose the thread of the story but not in the capable hands of the talented PC Darkcliff. He’s not only created a wonderful series but by delving into the motivations of his main characters he’s given this book (and the preceding books in the series) an emotional depth and nuance unlike many in this genre. It’s great stuff! I highly recommend this book and this series. It’s among the best I’ve ever read.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews