What do you think?
Rate this book
Warrior King: An Epic Military Fantasy Novel
Reeling from the recent civil war, Hadenfeld requires a firm hand to unite it.
Now crowned king, Ludwig must deal with those amongst his followers who are determined to take revenge on all who oppose his rule.
After two civil wars, the realms to the south are nervous, requiring him to visit there to assure them he intends no hostilities. While he is away, a new crisis emerges with the Church, leaving Queen Charlotte to deal with their demands. Dare she refuse their offer?
Upon his return, the unexpected arrival of renegade temple knights compels him to take action, leading to further conflict with the Church. Must he sacrifice honour to preserve his kingdom?
As chaos erupts, an even greater threat watches, ready to take advantage. Can Ludwig save his kingdom, or is he destined to be the next king to be overthrown?
Find out in Warrior King, the eighth and final book in Paul J Bennett's Power Ascending series.
Make your collection complete and snap up your copy of Warrior King to witness history in the making!
Now crowned king, Ludwig must deal with those amongst his followers who are determined to take revenge on all who oppose his rule.
After two civil wars, the realms to the south are nervous, requiring him to visit there to assure them he intends no hostilities. While he is away, a new crisis emerges with the Church, leaving Queen Charlotte to deal with their demands. Dare she refuse their offer?
Upon his return, the unexpected arrival of renegade temple knights compels him to take action, leading to further conflict with the Church. Must he sacrifice honour to preserve his kingdom?
As chaos erupts, an even greater threat watches, ready to take advantage. Can Ludwig save his kingdom, or is he destined to be the next king to be overthrown?
Find out in Warrior King, the eighth and final book in Paul J Bennett's Power Ascending series.
Make your collection complete and snap up your copy of Warrior King to witness history in the making!
563 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 24, 2025
37 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Paul J. Bennett
48 books550 followersPaul J Bennett (b. 1961) emigrated from England to Canada in 1967. His father served in the British Royal Navy, and his mother worked for the BBC in London. As a young man, Paul followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1983. He is married to Carol Bennett and has three daughters who are all creative in their own right.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 5, 2025
Warrior King proved to be quite well titled considering the number of skirmishes and even a full blown war there is in Hadenfeld after Ludwig and Charlotte took over as the royal couple.
The way the plot is developed is masterful and simply riveting, resulting in a series final that will be remembered for a very, very long time after closing the book finally.
Enjoy.
The way the plot is developed is masterful and simply riveting, resulting in a series final that will be remembered for a very, very long time after closing the book finally.
Enjoy.
August 6, 2025
The story is great! Very well thought out.
July 29, 2025
Paul has delivered us another book filled with the characters we have come to know and love, sprinkled with some new relatable ones. Warrior King gives us the finale to the story of Ludwig, former wayward son turned King. How will King Ludwig save his land since the church has declared a Holy War? Will his childhood amour, now Temple General, Charlaine join his army in this defense? Can peace ever settle over the Petty Kingdoms.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 2, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to all interested in fantasy military novels.
August 11, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing as always. Paul’s storyline, characters and everything about them makes the reader feel so much and more involved with the story and characters. His strategic vision is remarkable.
I love everything about this book and series and I am so excited for everything he writes. I gave this 5 stars but would give it more if I could.
I love everything about this book and series and I am so excited for everything he writes. I gave this 5 stars but would give it more if I could.
February 27, 2026
Warrior King is a difficult book for me to rate, because it closes a series I’ve genuinely enjoyed while leaving me far more disappointed than I expected to be.
One of the strengths of this series has always been its dual points of view and the slow growth of its central characters. Watching those storylines finally reunite to stand together against the Empire—the shadow looming behind nearly every conflict of the previous seven books—should have felt like the long-promised payoff.
For much of the novel, it does.
The first two-thirds are classic Paul J. Bennett: political maneuvering, diplomacy between rival kingdoms, Ludwig brokering peace, surviving a crusade secretly tied to the Empire, and preparing alliances for the inevitable war. The buildup works well, and the anticipation of the coming conflict steadily grows.
Unfortunately, the final act never quite delivers on that promise.
After seven books establishing the Empire as an overwhelming and nearly unbeatable force, the long-awaited confrontation arrives late and resolves surprisingly quickly. The Empire attacks, a single major battle is shown, and the threat that has driven the entire series is defeated in short order. Two additional decisive battles occur elsewhere and largely off-page, making the fall of the Empire feel abrupt compared to the immense buildup behind it.
What weakened the ending even more for me was the handling of several major emotional moments. One of Ludwig’s closest friends sacrifices himself before the final battle, only to be captured and brutally tortured by the Empire. The situation is horrifying and should carry enormous emotional weight, yet the aftermath passes quickly. Ludwig’s reaction feels brief, we never meaningfully see the response of the man’s wife—herself a longtime ally and general—and the character’s eventual healing removes much of the lasting consequence the moment seemed to promise.
Throughout earlier books, sacrifice and loss carried weight. Here, events that should have been devastating feel rushed past, leaving the emotional impact muted at exactly the point where the series needed it most.
That’s what makes this ending frustrating rather than outright bad. I still care deeply about these characters, and much of Bennett’s character work and worldbuilding remains strong. But after such extensive buildup, the defeat of the Empire and the resolution of the story feel smaller and cleaner than the journey seemed to demand.
Warrior King isn’t a bad book—but as a finale, it never quite lives up to the scale the series spent seven books promising. Still, the journey getting here was one I’m glad I took, even if the destination didn’t land the way I’d hoped.
One of the strengths of this series has always been its dual points of view and the slow growth of its central characters. Watching those storylines finally reunite to stand together against the Empire—the shadow looming behind nearly every conflict of the previous seven books—should have felt like the long-promised payoff.
For much of the novel, it does.
The first two-thirds are classic Paul J. Bennett: political maneuvering, diplomacy between rival kingdoms, Ludwig brokering peace, surviving a crusade secretly tied to the Empire, and preparing alliances for the inevitable war. The buildup works well, and the anticipation of the coming conflict steadily grows.
Unfortunately, the final act never quite delivers on that promise.
After seven books establishing the Empire as an overwhelming and nearly unbeatable force, the long-awaited confrontation arrives late and resolves surprisingly quickly. The Empire attacks, a single major battle is shown, and the threat that has driven the entire series is defeated in short order. Two additional decisive battles occur elsewhere and largely off-page, making the fall of the Empire feel abrupt compared to the immense buildup behind it.
What weakened the ending even more for me was the handling of several major emotional moments. One of Ludwig’s closest friends sacrifices himself before the final battle, only to be captured and brutally tortured by the Empire. The situation is horrifying and should carry enormous emotional weight, yet the aftermath passes quickly. Ludwig’s reaction feels brief, we never meaningfully see the response of the man’s wife—herself a longtime ally and general—and the character’s eventual healing removes much of the lasting consequence the moment seemed to promise.
Throughout earlier books, sacrifice and loss carried weight. Here, events that should have been devastating feel rushed past, leaving the emotional impact muted at exactly the point where the series needed it most.
That’s what makes this ending frustrating rather than outright bad. I still care deeply about these characters, and much of Bennett’s character work and worldbuilding remains strong. But after such extensive buildup, the defeat of the Empire and the resolution of the story feel smaller and cleaner than the journey seemed to demand.
Warrior King isn’t a bad book—but as a finale, it never quite lives up to the scale the series spent seven books promising. Still, the journey getting here was one I’m glad I took, even if the destination didn’t land the way I’d hoped.
August 5, 2025
What an awesome finish to this amazing series. Ludwig offers Charlaine and her knights a refuge and a home.
Ludwig visits his neighbours and assures them he has no desire to wage a war against them...instead he negotiates a mutual deal with them to go to one anothers aid if any of them are threatened by war.
Its not long before word reaches Ludwig that the Halvarian empire are attacking the Petty Kingdoms. He manages to persuade the Elves to assist in destroying the Halvarian empire, but Orcs also come to assist...... Elves and Orcs are deadly enemies from a war over 2000 years in the past. Some of the Elves because of their long lives were there at the battle and have bitter memories, but the Orcs only know what happened through their ancestors. Can Ludwig get them to forget the past and work against a common enemy.
What an epic battle to finish the series.
Read the book you wont be disappointed, unless ike me you dont want the series to end.
Ludwig visits his neighbours and assures them he has no desire to wage a war against them...instead he negotiates a mutual deal with them to go to one anothers aid if any of them are threatened by war.
Its not long before word reaches Ludwig that the Halvarian empire are attacking the Petty Kingdoms. He manages to persuade the Elves to assist in destroying the Halvarian empire, but Orcs also come to assist...... Elves and Orcs are deadly enemies from a war over 2000 years in the past. Some of the Elves because of their long lives were there at the battle and have bitter memories, but the Orcs only know what happened through their ancestors. Can Ludwig get them to forget the past and work against a common enemy.
What an epic battle to finish the series.
Read the book you wont be disappointed, unless ike me you dont want the series to end.
August 9, 2025
Warrior King By Paul J Bennett
Ludwig who is now King and his wife Charlotte who was queen in her own right, now ruled Hadenfeld. They became the Rulers after the 2nd Civil War. They now had to make peace with all of their nobles and with the people of the country. Ludwig had plans to make peace with those countries surrounding them in hopes of having no more wars. But peace was not to come without at least one more major war that they would have to win, to have a lasting peace. The church ended up in disarray and on the side of the enemy to the petty kingdoms. Mr. Bennett has written an excellent book which you should be sure to read along with the other books in this particular series. This book keeps you turning the pages to find out what's happening with everyone of importance to the story...
Ludwig who is now King and his wife Charlotte who was queen in her own right, now ruled Hadenfeld. They became the Rulers after the 2nd Civil War. They now had to make peace with all of their nobles and with the people of the country. Ludwig had plans to make peace with those countries surrounding them in hopes of having no more wars. But peace was not to come without at least one more major war that they would have to win, to have a lasting peace. The church ended up in disarray and on the side of the enemy to the petty kingdoms. Mr. Bennett has written an excellent book which you should be sure to read along with the other books in this particular series. This book keeps you turning the pages to find out what's happening with everyone of importance to the story...
July 31, 2025
Although I am sad that the series has ended, it was a great finish.
I have loved how Ludwig's character has evolved from "the spoiled son of a wealthy noble" he was, to the Warrior King he became. Circumstance, fate, call it what you will, has a way of pulling folks together and/or tearing them asunder. Ludwig and Charlaine were brought back together when the Petty Kingdom needed them the most. Will Halvaria finally be bested, and if so, at what cost? Can the Elves and Orcs, bitter enemies for centuries, put their animosity aside and concentrate on the threat to them all............ Halvaria?
I received a free Advance Reader Copy of Warrior King: Power Ascending Book 8 through BookFunnel and have chosen to leave a review.
I have loved how Ludwig's character has evolved from "the spoiled son of a wealthy noble" he was, to the Warrior King he became. Circumstance, fate, call it what you will, has a way of pulling folks together and/or tearing them asunder. Ludwig and Charlaine were brought back together when the Petty Kingdom needed them the most. Will Halvaria finally be bested, and if so, at what cost? Can the Elves and Orcs, bitter enemies for centuries, put their animosity aside and concentrate on the threat to them all............ Halvaria?
I received a free Advance Reader Copy of Warrior King: Power Ascending Book 8 through BookFunnel and have chosen to leave a review.
August 1, 2025
What a finale! Bennett brings it to a climactic conclusion with treachery, magic, unthinkable alliances and an epic battle! Ludwig has to determine the what, when, how and who of it all to make a stand against their enemies with the hope of preserving the Petty Kingdoms. With a number of problems at every turn, he must rally an amazing force or Halvaria will subjugate the continent. This is an immense undertaking – with self-doubt and uncertainty threatening to bring the whole undertaking down. Will Ludwig find the strength and faith to persevere? Will there be a united front to face the Halvarian legions, or will this be the end? A very inspiring tale worthy of the entire series. Kudos for constructing this fantastic ending.
July 24, 2025
The conclusion of the war saga.
Ludwig and Charlotte will face many challenges as they set up their Kingdom. Many of our favorite characters will appear throughout this final book of this epic military Series. Great descriptions and details will let you be part of the interesting story. This is my honest review from reading the ARC.
Ludwig and Charlotte will face many challenges as they set up their Kingdom. Many of our favorite characters will appear throughout this final book of this epic military Series. Great descriptions and details will let you be part of the interesting story. This is my honest review from reading the ARC.
August 2, 2025
Having just finished Warrior King, I believe it is a great way to complete the circle. Its message, which is so desperately needed today, is one of letting go of the past and learning to work together for the common good.
I received an advanced readers copy, though this has not affected my honest review
I received an advanced readers copy, though this has not affected my honest review
August 17, 2025
A superb ending to an exceptional epic fantasy series, Warrior King, the last book of the Power Ascending series is filled with magic, murder, and mayhem. Paul J. Bennett continues to deliver for his readers! Warrior King is fast paced and full of action. If you want to escape into a world of fantasy, this is the place to be.
September 5, 2025
Warrior King-Paul J Bennett
Excellent Denouement!!
Generally not one to use a lot of big fancy words but the review title sums it up this time. Excellent ending to what has been a very exciting, surprising, and expansive series which has taken many twisting turns to bring about a very gratifying fulfillment. Looking forward to seeing what kind of worlds Mr. Bennett has in store going forward
Excellent Denouement!!
Generally not one to use a lot of big fancy words but the review title sums it up this time. Excellent ending to what has been a very exciting, surprising, and expansive series which has taken many twisting turns to bring about a very gratifying fulfillment. Looking forward to seeing what kind of worlds Mr. Bennett has in store going forward
August 1, 2025
King Ludwig seeks to bring together those kingdoms sharing his borders. A crisis arises for the Queen to deal with while Ludwig is away. The action builds and builds as they prepare for the invasion of Halvaria which they know is coming.
August 12, 2025
This book is another excellent book by Mr Bennett I thoroughly enjoyed this book I've read the full series and you get drawn in by the brilliant storytelling and the characters who you get so involved with and I highly recommend this book
August 22, 2025
The enemy is trying to catch Ludwig under - strength
and unprepared.
Will they succeed or will he outfox and stall them until
he is better prepared to do battle ?
Read and ...
Enjoy !!
Phyllis S.
and unprepared.
Will they succeed or will he outfox and stall them until
he is better prepared to do battle ?
Read and ...
Enjoy !!
Phyllis S.
August 1, 2025
Outstanding story!
What a fantastic way to complete the series. I can’t wait for the next series that may or may not tie everything together.
What a fantastic way to complete the series. I can’t wait for the next series that may or may not tie everything together.
August 12, 2025
A great finish to a great series. Mr. Bennett is one of my favorite authors. I highly recommend you read this entire series.
August 13, 2025
This was a very enjoyable read that has well developed characters that are very believable and plenty of excitement to keep one wanting to read more.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews