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Queen of Blades
In the pursuit of doing good, they must sacrifice some of the good in themselves.
After their deadly encounter at the Typhon’s Base, Team Star Strike is left with more questions than answers. Now ranked among the elite within Lumière Inc, they must face rogue Cerberus members and terrifying new Risen as they prepare to enter the treacherous Labyrinth to go after the Typhons.
After six years of being a Host, a monster destined to end the Realm, Skye has become human again––almost. Despite all odds, she has begun to heal from the disappearance of her sister, Astrid, who has turned into an Undead Host. But in the depths of the Labyrinth, will she have to give up her humanity to keep her friends safe?
Zephyr is finally on the cusp of becoming Commander of Lumière Inc. After years of waiting, his time in the Tower of Trials approaches. It’s time to prove himself to his team, his clan, and the Realm itself.
Luna spent years keeping everyone at a distance after witnessing the brutal murders of the Unity Squad and her mentor, Vine. But she can’t seem to stay away from her childhood friend and teammate Stream, even knowing the cost of getting too close to someone.
Shadow finally has it all—fame and accolades from being a top-tier Agent and his twin, Skye, fighting by his side. But will it be enough for him? Or will he learn what it really means to be a hero?
With the Realm’s survival at stake, Team Star Strike must confront their greatest fears and darkest truths. The war between Mortals grows ever more desperate—the clock is ticking, and new worlds are calling.
Queen of Blades, the highly-anticipated sequel to the award-winning Realm of Hope, cranks up the action, drama, and stakes in a battle for the fate of the Realm. Packed with epic fights, unforgettable characters, and jaw-dropping twists, it’s a must-read for fans of series like Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, Dragon Age, and The Last Airbender. Don’t miss this next chapter in the fight against darkness!
After six years of being a Host, a monster destined to end the Realm, Skye has become human again––almost. Despite all odds, she has begun to heal from the disappearance of her sister, Astrid, who has turned into an Undead Host. But in the depths of the Labyrinth, will she have to give up her humanity to keep her friends safe?
Zephyr is finally on the cusp of becoming Commander of Lumière Inc. After years of waiting, his time in the Tower of Trials approaches. It’s time to prove himself to his team, his clan, and the Realm itself.
Luna spent years keeping everyone at a distance after witnessing the brutal murders of the Unity Squad and her mentor, Vine. But she can’t seem to stay away from her childhood friend and teammate Stream, even knowing the cost of getting too close to someone.
Shadow finally has it all—fame and accolades from being a top-tier Agent and his twin, Skye, fighting by his side. But will it be enough for him? Or will he learn what it really means to be a hero?
With the Realm’s survival at stake, Team Star Strike must confront their greatest fears and darkest truths. The war between Mortals grows ever more desperate—the clock is ticking, and new worlds are calling.
Queen of Blades, the highly-anticipated sequel to the award-winning Realm of Hope, cranks up the action, drama, and stakes in a battle for the fate of the Realm. Packed with epic fights, unforgettable characters, and jaw-dropping twists, it’s a must-read for fans of series like Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, Dragon Age, and The Last Airbender. Don’t miss this next chapter in the fight against darkness!
634 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2025
2 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
E.L. Li
3 books38 followersE.L. Li is a writer, software engineer, blogger, avid gamer, analyzer of entertainment, foodie, and baker. Today, she works on animation tools within the game industry and utilizes her aptitude for creativity in her spare time. She brings to life worlds and characters that have existed in her mind for years that represent her past experiences, values, and beliefs. You can also find her on TikTok @author_elli.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 28, 2025
E.L. Li upped her game with Queen of Blades. This book is the second installment of her “Realm of Hope” trilogy. I was a fan of the first book, but this one has me committed. I’ll be SAT waiting for the final installment, and I’m excited to see Li’s next project. She is surely an author to watch!
Realm of Hope perfectly sets up Queen of Blades, and Li expertly captures how her characters feel as young adults with the burden of the world on their shoulders. I love that this series gives us chapters from the POV of various characters, allowing us to experience the universe through multiple perspectives as the members of Star Strike learn and grow together. Li knows how to create a shocking plot twist and heart-rending flashbacks, slowly revealing her plot and building tension to an EPIC final battle. This was an absolute rollercoaster.
This trilogy is ambitious in its world-building, and Li does a fantastic job of creating an expansive universe that is still accessible to the reader. She includes a reader’s guide and a cast of characters to help you keep up with the fast-paced adventure. There is never a dull moment, and Li keeps you on the edge of your seat with romance, action, suspense, and well-timed humor. The magic system and fighting style are reminiscent of a video game, as Li initially intended it to be one! It’s a fun characteristic for gaming readers like me. It's unique, and I haven’t seen any other fantasy books with this style!
Realm of Hope perfectly sets up Queen of Blades, and Li expertly captures how her characters feel as young adults with the burden of the world on their shoulders. I love that this series gives us chapters from the POV of various characters, allowing us to experience the universe through multiple perspectives as the members of Star Strike learn and grow together. Li knows how to create a shocking plot twist and heart-rending flashbacks, slowly revealing her plot and building tension to an EPIC final battle. This was an absolute rollercoaster.
This trilogy is ambitious in its world-building, and Li does a fantastic job of creating an expansive universe that is still accessible to the reader. She includes a reader’s guide and a cast of characters to help you keep up with the fast-paced adventure. There is never a dull moment, and Li keeps you on the edge of your seat with romance, action, suspense, and well-timed humor. The magic system and fighting style are reminiscent of a video game, as Li initially intended it to be one! It’s a fun characteristic for gaming readers like me. It's unique, and I haven’t seen any other fantasy books with this style!
February 3, 2025
As an ARC reader, I can confidently say Queen of Blades is a downright masterpiece! The Kingdom Hearts influence continues to shine along with Final Fantasy, and other JRPGs. The weapons and abilities are even cooler here! Skye still carries that Roxas energy, and Shadow continues to embody Sora. The unresolved issues from the previous book had to be dealt with first, especially the Cerberus situation, and I loved seeing how everything played out. The way the Labyrinth, the Typhons, and the final battles were handled was incredible. This book had me crying—some moments were downright tear-jerking.
I couldn’t stop imagining this as a video game, just like the first book! The combat, the abilities, the world—it all feels like it needs to be played.
I couldn’t stop imagining this as a video game, just like the first book! The combat, the abilities, the world—it all feels like it needs to be played.
February 4, 2025
I was an ARC reader of Queen of Blades and oh my gods E.L. Li has done it again. I LOVED this squeal so much. We got to watch the team grow and face challenges together. Skye is learning to become human and oh I wish I could give her a hug, she needs so many cookies and warm tea. If you are a lover of Kingdom Hearts I urge you to give this series a read!! It reminds me of the game and I listened to the soundtracks from the series while reading(which is the move honestly it really fits the vibe). Thank you so much for letting me be an ARC reader for you! I can’t wait for book 3!!!
February 5, 2025
A great read. If you enjoy action packed, RPG inspired storytelling, this book is for you. E.L. Li continues her saga with a star-packed cast that are flawlessly woven into compelling story arcs and narrative. Can’t wait for the third installment!
January 26, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, and it was everything!!! As a sequel to Realm of Hope, it totally delivered and then some! The world-building? Next-level. The character arcs? Chef’s kiss. I was already obsessed, but now I’m officially unwell over this series.
Skye continues to be my absolute fave—she’s just that girl. Her strength, her struggles, her growth—I was rooting for her so hard! <3 <3 <3 And don’t even get me started on her romance with Zephyr. Their dynamic had me giggling, kicking my feet, and full-on swooning. The tension, the looks, everything—I was screaming for them to kiss! It was so worth it.
The team dynamic was also top-tier, and the other characters got some great development, which made every moment shine even more.
And THAT ENDING??? DIABOLICAL. I was screaming, crying, and possibly yeeting my kindle across the room (in the best way, obviously). I need the next one ASAP because I cannot deal.
If you loved Realm of Hope, this sequel will have you devouring every page. Pure perfection!!!
Skye continues to be my absolute fave—she’s just that girl. Her strength, her struggles, her growth—I was rooting for her so hard! <3 <3 <3 And don’t even get me started on her romance with Zephyr. Their dynamic had me giggling, kicking my feet, and full-on swooning. The tension, the looks, everything—I was screaming for them to kiss! It was so worth it.
The team dynamic was also top-tier, and the other characters got some great development, which made every moment shine even more.
And THAT ENDING??? DIABOLICAL. I was screaming, crying, and possibly yeeting my kindle across the room (in the best way, obviously). I need the next one ASAP because I cannot deal.
If you loved Realm of Hope, this sequel will have you devouring every page. Pure perfection!!!
January 28, 2025
Queen of Blades was one of my most anticipated reads and I was ecstatic to receive an ARC. If Realm of Hope was all about intricate setup and secrets, this sequel takes everything to a whole new level. The worldbuilding is even richer, the character arcs more compelling, and all those threads from the first book weave together into an absolutely satisfying and heart-pounding story.
What stood out to me the most was how masterfully the revelations and secrets were handled. Every new piece of information felt perfectly timed and impactful, adding more depth to the world and characters while answering lingering questions from the first book. The Labyrinth was a hauntingly vivid highlight, and the action scenes still hold up as some of the best I've encountered. The final battle is by far my favorite part.
All the setup from Realm of Hope pays off in the most satisfying way, with the story delivering on every promise and it makes me even more excited (and terrified) for what’s to come in the finale.
What stood out to me the most was how masterfully the revelations and secrets were handled. Every new piece of information felt perfectly timed and impactful, adding more depth to the world and characters while answering lingering questions from the first book. The Labyrinth was a hauntingly vivid highlight, and the action scenes still hold up as some of the best I've encountered. The final battle is by far my favorite part.
All the setup from Realm of Hope pays off in the most satisfying way, with the story delivering on every promise and it makes me even more excited (and terrified) for what’s to come in the finale.
January 31, 2025
Not a huge fan of the fantasy genre personally, but decided to take a chance with this series, and I'm glad I did. Felt myself getting immersed and more invested into the characters. I don't want to spoil anything, but it's definitely just as good as the first in the series, Realm of Hope and thoroughly enjoyed them both.
January 28, 2025
This book dove into action quite fast! Just like the first book, you could feel the inspiration the author had to create the world this story was set in. I really liked the magic system. Shaping aura into elements? You don't see that often in books!
The characters are so diverse and even relatable. I really liked Skye and Zephyr.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to delve into the world she created through the ARC of the book.
The characters are so diverse and even relatable. I really liked Skye and Zephyr.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to delve into the world she created through the ARC of the book.
February 7, 2025
Exciting fantasy game style novel
Another interesting novel but also a bit long. I like that it sounds like a game or movie and is a fantasy and royalty theme. Skye has a destiny to become a human but not completely. Sadly, her sister Astrid was turned into an Undead Host. Shadow is Skye's twin but also an interesting character. Zephyr is working on becoming the Commander of Lumiere Inc. There are many opportunities for him and his group to show that he is qualified for the role. Luna cares for others and wants to protect them from the Unity Squad and her mentor, Vine. This novel has many challenges between mortals and gods. The battles are exciting and its well written. It keeps you entertained and there is a lot that happens. It is a unique novel and worth reading when you have lots of time.
Another interesting novel but also a bit long. I like that it sounds like a game or movie and is a fantasy and royalty theme. Skye has a destiny to become a human but not completely. Sadly, her sister Astrid was turned into an Undead Host. Shadow is Skye's twin but also an interesting character. Zephyr is working on becoming the Commander of Lumiere Inc. There are many opportunities for him and his group to show that he is qualified for the role. Luna cares for others and wants to protect them from the Unity Squad and her mentor, Vine. This novel has many challenges between mortals and gods. The battles are exciting and its well written. It keeps you entertained and there is a lot that happens. It is a unique novel and worth reading when you have lots of time.
January 17, 2025
Queen of Blades is a continuation of Realm of Hope, and manages to propel the plot forward at lightning speed whilst fleshing out each character through interesting challenges. I received the book early in exchange for an honest review, and I'm glad I took the chance! The book's "reads like a video game" style continues to work its magic, with the fight scenes especially vivid and easy to imagine in your head. The characters are great, and the villains are especially interesting. Excited to get my hands on the next one!
February 4, 2025
Queen of Blades is an amazing sequel to Realm of Hope. Readers will get to see Team Star Strike struggle with what it means to save the Realm and what the world will be like if they’re able to succeed. We get to see the romances that were hinted at in Realm of Hope flourish in satisfying ways. Queen of Blades also lets us see amazing cities and towns as we follow Star Strike on their journey. It also features kickass fight scenes that make you feel like you’re in the fight alongside Star Strike.
Highly, highly recommend reading Queen of Blades!
Highly, highly recommend reading Queen of Blades!
February 12, 2025
Queen of Blades is an amazing book on its own, but also serves as a fantastic sequel to Realm of Hope. The descriptive fight scenes and relationships between the characters continues to impress and remains my favorite part of both this book and the series as a whole. Queen of Blades manages to contain everything you hope to find in a Realm of Hope book without getting repetitive or stale while also adding new themes and concepts to the series. This is definitely a book I'd be able to re-read and be able to pick up new details I might have missed the first time and look forward to doing so.
January 28, 2025
I was an ARC for this book and it was amazing! The book starts out slower in the first 1/3 to resolve any remaining plot threads from Realm of Hope, which I enjoyed. There was some filler, but I still enjoyed it, so I can't knock any points there. I liked seeing Luna's arc flourish, and she has become one of my favorite characters. Once you get to the second 2/3 of the book, oh man, it’s a fun ride! There were twists and turns that I didn't see coming and plenty of action throughout.
October 10, 2025
This series is just so epic and the world building is so expansive and top tier and the fight scenes are everything. If you like Kpop Demon Hunters and/or Final Fantasy please check these books out today.
Every character is soo cool and unique, and the magic is complex- all of which are things that I think are particularly difficult to do when you have a large cast- yet they are done so well.
I reallv can't wait for the next one!l
Every character is soo cool and unique, and the magic is complex- all of which are things that I think are particularly difficult to do when you have a large cast- yet they are done so well.
I reallv can't wait for the next one!l
March 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! You can clearly see E.L.'s love of Kingdom Hearts and other RPGs. It still has that unique video game-like feel. Skye is STILL my favorite character out of the bunch. The adventure continues!
January 31, 2025
“Even Better Than the First!
I got an early copy of Queen of Blades in exchange for an honest review, and it’s a fantastic read. If you loved Realm of Hope, this sequel will blow your mind.
Skye and Shadow’s arcs are particularly strong in this one.
It’s darker, more emotional, and the fights were even more thrilling. Don’t miss this one—it’s everything you could want in a sequel and more!”
I got an early copy of Queen of Blades in exchange for an honest review, and it’s a fantastic read. If you loved Realm of Hope, this sequel will blow your mind.
Skye and Shadow’s arcs are particularly strong in this one.
It’s darker, more emotional, and the fights were even more thrilling. Don’t miss this one—it’s everything you could want in a sequel and more!”
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews