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The Witch Roads #2
The Nameless Land
Surprising betrayals, surprising alliances, and surprising discoveries of heritage abound in this energetic sequel to The Witch Roads.
When the royal party finds themselves in a land they never believed they could access, it will take all of Prince Gevulin's (admittedly impressive) diplomatic skills to forge a coalition with an unlikely group of would-be allies.
Meanwhile, as Erin mourns her lost love, an unwelcome visit to the land of her birth brings back the traumatic memories of the childhood she shared with her sister.
And a surprise visit from an unwelcome family member threatens to derail the plans of multiple opposing factions.
Loyalty cannot be demanded, only won
When the royal party finds themselves in a land they never believed they could access, it will take all of Prince Gevulin's (admittedly impressive) diplomatic skills to forge a coalition with an unlikely group of would-be allies.
Meanwhile, as Erin mourns her lost love, an unwelcome visit to the land of her birth brings back the traumatic memories of the childhood she shared with her sister.
And a surprise visit from an unwelcome family member threatens to derail the plans of multiple opposing factions.
Loyalty cannot be demanded, only won
416 pages, Hardcover
First published November 4, 2025
65 people are currently reading
3820 people want to read
About the author
Kate Elliott
111 books2,925 followersAs a child in rural Oregon, Kate Elliott made up stories because she longed to escape to a world of lurid adventure fiction. She now writes fantasy, steampunk, and science fiction, often with a romantic edge. She currently lives in Hawaii, where she paddles outrigger canoes and spoils her schnauzer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
September 8, 2025
A satisfyingly heartfelt conclusion to the duology, with room to expand if Elliot chooses to. Compared to The Witch Roads, The Nameless Land feels like a shorter read, though the page count is similar, because the pacing is faster and there’s so much payoff for the mysteries set up in book one.
I’ve seen people say they didn’t want to continue after Witch Roads because they saw spoilers that said their favorite character isn’t in this one. He is! He remains delightful, and his relationship with El continued to provide both of them with opportunities to grow past their worst traits. She teaches him gratitude and true responsibility; he teaches her that she can trust other people to care for her and for themselves.
It’s the relationships that really shine for me in this second installment. There remains a great deal of worldbuilding to unravel, but I didn’t get the same thrill of discovery that I did from book one, mostly because the titular Nameless Land is really fucking bleak. Watching the characters I already love find a way through that bleakness together was not just delightful but actually genuinely inspiring. Like a lot of people, I’ve been carrying some big, existential depression since 2020, and the ways El finds to carry her trauma and grief and rage alongside her joy and love and hope resonated deeply with me. I’m going to talk about this book in therapy.
I received a free eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Happy ending?
I’ve seen people say they didn’t want to continue after Witch Roads because they saw spoilers that said their favorite character isn’t in this one. He is! He remains delightful, and his relationship with El continued to provide both of them with opportunities to grow past their worst traits. She teaches him gratitude and true responsibility; he teaches her that she can trust other people to care for her and for themselves.
It’s the relationships that really shine for me in this second installment. There remains a great deal of worldbuilding to unravel, but I didn’t get the same thrill of discovery that I did from book one, mostly because the titular Nameless Land is really fucking bleak. Watching the characters I already love find a way through that bleakness together was not just delightful but actually genuinely inspiring. Like a lot of people, I’ve been carrying some big, existential depression since 2020, and the ways El finds to carry her trauma and grief and rage alongside her joy and love and hope resonated deeply with me. I’m going to talk about this book in therapy.
I received a free eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Happy ending?
July 6, 2025
3.75 stars!
I definitely liked this more than the first one! I think if you're a big fan of the first book in the duology you'll be very satisfied with this.
After many years, Elen returns to the place she and Aoving ran from. Alongside the Prince's retinue, the group face new political challenges and Elen's past comes back to haunt (iykyk) her. I wasn't a big fan of the first book, and I think some of the problems I had with it continue in this one but I did like this more on the whole. The pace picks up a lot, and I think by nature of it being a second book the world building becomes a lot easier to swallow. I do like Elen, and as you get more insight into the Prince he becomes a more engaging character. I think the world building generally doesn't work for me because it feels like a lot of vague distinct fantasy elements without a lot of cohesion. Also, fantasy stories about traveling are kind of hard for me to stay engaged with because each scene feels procedural.
If you are a Kate Elliot fan or you really like the first book, this is a great sequel! However, if you didn't love the first book I don't think this one is going to redeem the series for you.
Thank you to Kate Elliot and Tor Books for this ARC in exchange for my full, honest review!
Happy reading!
I definitely liked this more than the first one! I think if you're a big fan of the first book in the duology you'll be very satisfied with this.
After many years, Elen returns to the place she and Aoving ran from. Alongside the Prince's retinue, the group face new political challenges and Elen's past comes back to haunt (iykyk) her. I wasn't a big fan of the first book, and I think some of the problems I had with it continue in this one but I did like this more on the whole. The pace picks up a lot, and I think by nature of it being a second book the world building becomes a lot easier to swallow. I do like Elen, and as you get more insight into the Prince he becomes a more engaging character. I think the world building generally doesn't work for me because it feels like a lot of vague distinct fantasy elements without a lot of cohesion. Also, fantasy stories about traveling are kind of hard for me to stay engaged with because each scene feels procedural.
If you are a Kate Elliot fan or you really like the first book, this is a great sequel! However, if you didn't love the first book I don't think this one is going to redeem the series for you.
Thank you to Kate Elliot and Tor Books for this ARC in exchange for my full, honest review!
Happy reading!
November 11, 2025
Video review here: https://youtu.be/FLQQQjmztfI
I received an eARC via NetGalley.
Elliott does it again with this riveting end to The Witch Roads duology! The Nameless Land picks up right where The Witch Roads leaves off, but with the fascinating world set up and the wonderfully developed characters things move very quickly! This book was very difficult to put down once I started!
Elliott's phenomenal worldbuilding and attention to characters is on full display, and while this ending is very satisfying, I can't help but want to keep exploring the lands set up here! Thematically the focus in this duology feels to be that people are people no matter the station, and those that may seem to be lowly can make a huge difference.
The biggest surprise for me in this duology was just how invested I was in the romantic subplot that features quite a bit in the second book. It's a unique take and one that's extremely nuanced, beautiful, and a bit tragic at time, but altogether just extremely compelling. This is a great starting point as a relatively short series that's just two books if you are looking to get into Elliott! It showcases her strengths while being very easy to read and get through! Definitely check it out!
I received an eARC via NetGalley.
Elliott does it again with this riveting end to The Witch Roads duology! The Nameless Land picks up right where The Witch Roads leaves off, but with the fascinating world set up and the wonderfully developed characters things move very quickly! This book was very difficult to put down once I started!
Elliott's phenomenal worldbuilding and attention to characters is on full display, and while this ending is very satisfying, I can't help but want to keep exploring the lands set up here! Thematically the focus in this duology feels to be that people are people no matter the station, and those that may seem to be lowly can make a huge difference.
The biggest surprise for me in this duology was just how invested I was in the romantic subplot that features quite a bit in the second book. It's a unique take and one that's extremely nuanced, beautiful, and a bit tragic at time, but altogether just extremely compelling. This is a great starting point as a relatively short series that's just two books if you are looking to get into Elliott! It showcases her strengths while being very easy to read and get through! Definitely check it out!
July 18, 2025
The Nameless Land picks up right where The Witch Roads left off. I read The Witch Roads right before tackling The Nameless Land, and I’d recommend doing the same. It’s really a long story cut in two, not a book one and its sequel.
Elen is a deputy courier, a person of humble birth thrown in with a prince and his retinue. She spends her life walking her route to deliver news, and palace intrigues are unfamiliar to her. She has no family but her young nephew, and her thoughts stray to his safety above all things, sometimes to her own peril. She becomes good friends with high born warden Xilsi, and she earns the respect of the other wardens guarding the prince. She has good sense and is usually in good humor, and it’s hard not to like her despite her lack of deference to the others. Xilsi is also a delight.
I found The Nameless Land to be not quite as engrossing as the first, mostly due to the absence of a main character from book one, but I thoroughly enjoyed it all the same. There are some surprises, predictable and unpredictable, and a lot of character development. I really enjoyed watching the characters bond and become friends, or at least get to understand each other better. Even the prince becomes a better person.
The world building is good – enough for us to understand, but not so much as to bore with unneeded detail. I like that some mysteries are left unsolved. It’s so refreshing to see likable and relatable adult characters and likable young adults still learning how to navigate the world.
The two Witch Roads books are advertised as a duology, and the second book ends perfectly, and yet I think there is at least one more story with these characters to be told. Maybe even another duology. I hope the author will consider writing additional stories set in this world.
I read an advance reader copy of The Nameless Land from Netgalley.
Elen is a deputy courier, a person of humble birth thrown in with a prince and his retinue. She spends her life walking her route to deliver news, and palace intrigues are unfamiliar to her. She has no family but her young nephew, and her thoughts stray to his safety above all things, sometimes to her own peril. She becomes good friends with high born warden Xilsi, and she earns the respect of the other wardens guarding the prince. She has good sense and is usually in good humor, and it’s hard not to like her despite her lack of deference to the others. Xilsi is also a delight.
I found The Nameless Land to be not quite as engrossing as the first, mostly due to the absence of a main character from book one, but I thoroughly enjoyed it all the same. There are some surprises, predictable and unpredictable, and a lot of character development. I really enjoyed watching the characters bond and become friends, or at least get to understand each other better. Even the prince becomes a better person.
The world building is good – enough for us to understand, but not so much as to bore with unneeded detail. I like that some mysteries are left unsolved. It’s so refreshing to see likable and relatable adult characters and likable young adults still learning how to navigate the world.
The two Witch Roads books are advertised as a duology, and the second book ends perfectly, and yet I think there is at least one more story with these characters to be told. Maybe even another duology. I hope the author will consider writing additional stories set in this world.
I read an advance reader copy of The Nameless Land from Netgalley.
November 14, 2025
Poisonous deadly spores, warring factions, political power grasps, spiritual possession and mysterious pasts.
Really what’s not to like?
In this back half of The Witch Roads duology, we get all of that. We also get what Kate Elliott specializes in.
Characters that are grounded, relatable and have heart.
You aren’t just watching their journey. You are making the trek with them.
I know I go on and on about Crown of Stars (in my top 5 fantasy ever). Part of why I loved it so much were the characters and the attachment I had with them. A real humanizing quality that hooks your emotional bond.
That is all wonderfully present here as well, I’m happy to say. 😀
This might make an easier test run on Kate’s work being a tidy two books.
Great stuff.
Really what’s not to like?
In this back half of The Witch Roads duology, we get all of that. We also get what Kate Elliott specializes in.
Characters that are grounded, relatable and have heart.
You aren’t just watching their journey. You are making the trek with them.
I know I go on and on about Crown of Stars (in my top 5 fantasy ever). Part of why I loved it so much were the characters and the attachment I had with them. A real humanizing quality that hooks your emotional bond.
That is all wonderfully present here as well, I’m happy to say. 😀
This might make an easier test run on Kate’s work being a tidy two books.
Great stuff.
January 25, 2026
I thought this book was much more interesting than the first one. It had more action and political intrigue. Honestly, I feel like the two books should have been combined into one big book.
I really enjoyed the world building and character development. Everything felt very fleshed out, like there was serious thought put into the creation of the story. I also liked the inclusion of queer characters in a way that felt very natural to the world.
My biggest complaint is that the larger political/world plot felt unfinished by the end. I really hope there is another book coming eventually, because I really want to know what happens with the two countries, learn more about the pall and sorcery, and get more information on who/what Elen is.
Overall, The Nameless Land was a great intermediate book, but not a great series ending book. There was just too much left unexplained/covered. I would potentially increase my rating if I found out there was another book coming out.
I really enjoyed the world building and character development. Everything felt very fleshed out, like there was serious thought put into the creation of the story. I also liked the inclusion of queer characters in a way that felt very natural to the world.
My biggest complaint is that the larger political/world plot felt unfinished by the end. I really hope there is another book coming eventually, because I really want to know what happens with the two countries, learn more about the pall and sorcery, and get more information on who/what Elen is.
Overall, The Nameless Land was a great intermediate book, but not a great series ending book. There was just too much left unexplained/covered. I would potentially increase my rating if I found out there was another book coming out.
October 9, 2025
This epic fantasy is the sequel to The Witch Roads. Deputy courier Elen has been dragged into the affairs of princes. She has been swept into the retinue of Prince Gevulin who has treason in mind.
Gevulin is heading for the nameless lands in search of allies in his conspiracy to overthrow the Emperor who is his sister. He has drafted Elen as his guide not knowing that the nameless lands were lands she and her heart sister were glad to flee as young girls. Going back threatens her life and the life and safety of her young nephew who is also an apprentice warden in the party.
Elen is also mourning the loss of the being who had taken over Gevulin and the first book and then left him to complete his own mission. Gevulin wasn't supposed to remember being taken over but that part of the deal didn't work. Remembering has told him things about Elen that put her and her nephew in danger.
But her lost love isn't quite as lost as she had thought. He is given permission by one of the prince's potential allies to take over her body which reunites the lost lovers for a while.
This was engaging epic fantasy seen through the eyes of someone with very little social standing but quite epic powers. Elen is a woman who has a past she doesn't remember and a skill that could lead a prince to control of the empire if she can stay alive.
I liked the worldbuilding with its varied creatures. I liked the characters even the prince grew on me a bit as I got to know him as something other than a man willing to do anything to get the throne. Elen was intriguing. She was a woman who had modest goals: enough to eat nine days out of ten and a pair of good boots. She was also willing to do anything to make sure her nephew had a safe and fulfilling life.
While this story can stand alone, it gains richness and depth by reading The Witch Roads first.
Gevulin is heading for the nameless lands in search of allies in his conspiracy to overthrow the Emperor who is his sister. He has drafted Elen as his guide not knowing that the nameless lands were lands she and her heart sister were glad to flee as young girls. Going back threatens her life and the life and safety of her young nephew who is also an apprentice warden in the party.
Elen is also mourning the loss of the being who had taken over Gevulin and the first book and then left him to complete his own mission. Gevulin wasn't supposed to remember being taken over but that part of the deal didn't work. Remembering has told him things about Elen that put her and her nephew in danger.
But her lost love isn't quite as lost as she had thought. He is given permission by one of the prince's potential allies to take over her body which reunites the lost lovers for a while.
This was engaging epic fantasy seen through the eyes of someone with very little social standing but quite epic powers. Elen is a woman who has a past she doesn't remember and a skill that could lead a prince to control of the empire if she can stay alive.
I liked the worldbuilding with its varied creatures. I liked the characters even the prince grew on me a bit as I got to know him as something other than a man willing to do anything to get the throne. Elen was intriguing. She was a woman who had modest goals: enough to eat nine days out of ten and a pair of good boots. She was also willing to do anything to make sure her nephew had a safe and fulfilling life.
While this story can stand alone, it gains richness and depth by reading The Witch Roads first.
February 3, 2026
What a great ending to an excellent duology. My only gripe is that there isn't more, but it ended as it only could, really.
February 1, 2026
Elen has my heart. I would happily read more in this series and I hope there is more to come!!!
"Every soul was vulnerable. She'd staked her life on that understanding, never taking for granted any scrap of peace or happiness and cherishing all that flowed her way for the blessing it was."
"Every soul was vulnerable. She'd staked her life on that understanding, never taking for granted any scrap of peace or happiness and cherishing all that flowed her way for the blessing it was."
November 13, 2025
Don't know about the love affair between our heroin and the "shorn," who in fact is a dragon. I guess damsels can fall in love with dragons. To be clear, the dragon occupies a human body. Other than that bit of corniest, the tale overall was entertaining.
Political infighting, learning the strange ways of the far-land, i.e., nameless land, and running battles make up this tale. And one does not buck the pecking order of the inhabitants. There are masters and princes and below that the low life. But even the low life has status of a certain order.
Good, but not a "great" read.
Political infighting, learning the strange ways of the far-land, i.e., nameless land, and running battles make up this tale. And one does not buck the pecking order of the inhabitants. There are masters and princes and below that the low life. But even the low life has status of a certain order.
Good, but not a "great" read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
Gevulin’s story arc was a lovely surprise. It’s also so refreshing to see fmcs older than like 17. basically, this won’t change ur life or anything but it’s a charming duology that’s kind of like game of thrones without the violence against women
February 12, 2026
More of a 3.5er.
The first book in this duology was charming, intricately built, with lots of great characters and a sweet, mysterious romance at its core that I found engaging. This book builds on that world and deepens it, but I can't help but feel reading it that Elliott was intentionally snipping off narrative threads to ensure this series remained a duology.
It's a shame, there are quite a few threads I wished she'd tug on a bit more: Who made the map of the underground rivers? What's Luviara's deal? Who will deal with Thelan up north? What about this war brewing between the princes?
Hopefully she'll return to this world in future stories.
The first book in this duology was charming, intricately built, with lots of great characters and a sweet, mysterious romance at its core that I found engaging. This book builds on that world and deepens it, but I can't help but feel reading it that Elliott was intentionally snipping off narrative threads to ensure this series remained a duology.
It's a shame, there are quite a few threads I wished she'd tug on a bit more: Who made the map of the underground rivers? What's Luviara's deal? Who will deal with Thelan up north? What about this war brewing between the princes?
Hopefully she'll return to this world in future stories.
October 12, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4.5/5 stars
This was a whirlwind, fast paced, expertly crafted sequel to The Witch Roads. I finished it within 48 hours; I just could not put it down.
The book starts off exactly where The Witch Roads ends and wastes no time, diving into urgent retreats and risky alliances with those North of the Pall. While the Witch Roads mostly felt like a leisurely stroll through an epic fantasy world, this book felt like a sprint through mountains of delicious political intrigue. Elliott sure knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat! The political machinations were so well constructed, I was blindsided more than once in a style that felt similar to Game of Thrones, though namely less overtly violent.
The characters at times feel somewhat distant or detached on an emotional level to me, though I think this might be Elliot’s third person style of writing. Altogether, they are multilayered and tangible, with deeply seeded relationships that build over the course of these two books. The villains felt profoundly unsettling (thinking of a specific Lord from the North here) in their privilege and blatant disregard for the lives of those considered “lesser than”, though this also tracks into our protagonists’ party as well. We get to see some growth on that regard from many of the characters which I liked. El’s resilience in the face of grief and her past trauma was impactful to watch unfold and resonated with me. I even started to like Prince Gevulin more in this book as his motivations came to light. Kem and El’s relationship was still my favourite, apart from El and the Haunt’s.
The descriptions in this book, especially of the landscape, are beautiful, albeit at times bleak when directed towards the injustices and status differences in the world. Elliott’s world building continues to astound me in the best possible way. While this was a satisfying ending to this stunning duology, there were some threads that felt unfinished/open ended. I hope this is a sign Elliott is planning further books as I can’t help wanting more stories in this world.
If you’re a fan of complex world building in a high fantasy setting with excellent political intrigue (and a romantic subplot), I think you’d really enjoy this book.
4.5/5 stars
This was a whirlwind, fast paced, expertly crafted sequel to The Witch Roads. I finished it within 48 hours; I just could not put it down.
The book starts off exactly where The Witch Roads ends and wastes no time, diving into urgent retreats and risky alliances with those North of the Pall. While the Witch Roads mostly felt like a leisurely stroll through an epic fantasy world, this book felt like a sprint through mountains of delicious political intrigue. Elliott sure knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat! The political machinations were so well constructed, I was blindsided more than once in a style that felt similar to Game of Thrones, though namely less overtly violent.
The characters at times feel somewhat distant or detached on an emotional level to me, though I think this might be Elliot’s third person style of writing. Altogether, they are multilayered and tangible, with deeply seeded relationships that build over the course of these two books. The villains felt profoundly unsettling (thinking of a specific Lord from the North here) in their privilege and blatant disregard for the lives of those considered “lesser than”, though this also tracks into our protagonists’ party as well. We get to see some growth on that regard from many of the characters which I liked. El’s resilience in the face of grief and her past trauma was impactful to watch unfold and resonated with me. I even started to like Prince Gevulin more in this book as his motivations came to light. Kem and El’s relationship was still my favourite, apart from El and the Haunt’s.
The descriptions in this book, especially of the landscape, are beautiful, albeit at times bleak when directed towards the injustices and status differences in the world. Elliott’s world building continues to astound me in the best possible way. While this was a satisfying ending to this stunning duology, there were some threads that felt unfinished/open ended. I hope this is a sign Elliott is planning further books as I can’t help wanting more stories in this world.
If you’re a fan of complex world building in a high fantasy setting with excellent political intrigue (and a romantic subplot), I think you’d really enjoy this book.
November 10, 2025
Thank you, Tor and Netgalley, for the e-ARC. Thank you so much, Tor, for the finished copy! I am so thankful!! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
I was so excited to jump back into this world. We start where the first book ends. Elliott has created such a unique and fascinating world. I was happy to explore more of the world and magic in this book. I appreciate that the world-building is vast, but it doesn’t feel like a bunch of information dumps. Don’t get me wrong, this is the type of fantasy that you cannot speed read. You have to take your time to delve into this story and the characters. I love a good fantasy that forces me to slow it down and take it all in.
The cast of characters is my favorite thing about this duology. Elen has come so far in her character arc! I loved seeing how this book focuses more on her past and her origins. There is still so much mystery around her and her lineage. Throughout the journey, I hit a lot of very emotional moments. Elliott did a fantastic job engrossing her readers. Not only that, but the cast of characters brings different personalities to the table. I loved the respect and relationships that evolved in this book. Xilsi is one that I was not sure about and ended up loving in this book!
There is a romance, but it’s such a slow burn. Their romance is beautifully done. This is the type of fantasy that is less focused on the romance, though. I know, people were upset that he isn’t the main focus in this book, but he is there! I won’t say more, but he is in this one. Personally, I loved how he took such a back seat to this book, and Elen became the main focus. Her story was important and tragic. I think we needed the romance to take a back seat to see how far she really has come.
Overall, I thought this was a great duology! Elliott did leave some things a mystery, and I was shocked to find out it was the end. I think there is definitely more to the story if she wants to go there. At the same time, it’s the worst open-ended book I’ve read. It’s satisfying, even if she doesn’t continue. I loved the rich and complex characters throughout the series. I think all my epic fantasy readers would enjoy The Witch Roads duology!
I was so excited to jump back into this world. We start where the first book ends. Elliott has created such a unique and fascinating world. I was happy to explore more of the world and magic in this book. I appreciate that the world-building is vast, but it doesn’t feel like a bunch of information dumps. Don’t get me wrong, this is the type of fantasy that you cannot speed read. You have to take your time to delve into this story and the characters. I love a good fantasy that forces me to slow it down and take it all in.
The cast of characters is my favorite thing about this duology. Elen has come so far in her character arc! I loved seeing how this book focuses more on her past and her origins. There is still so much mystery around her and her lineage. Throughout the journey, I hit a lot of very emotional moments. Elliott did a fantastic job engrossing her readers. Not only that, but the cast of characters brings different personalities to the table. I loved the respect and relationships that evolved in this book. Xilsi is one that I was not sure about and ended up loving in this book!
There is a romance, but it’s such a slow burn. Their romance is beautifully done. This is the type of fantasy that is less focused on the romance, though. I know, people were upset that he isn’t the main focus in this book, but he is there! I won’t say more, but he is in this one. Personally, I loved how he took such a back seat to this book, and Elen became the main focus. Her story was important and tragic. I think we needed the romance to take a back seat to see how far she really has come.
Overall, I thought this was a great duology! Elliott did leave some things a mystery, and I was shocked to find out it was the end. I think there is definitely more to the story if she wants to go there. At the same time, it’s the worst open-ended book I’ve read. It’s satisfying, even if she doesn’t continue. I loved the rich and complex characters throughout the series. I think all my epic fantasy readers would enjoy The Witch Roads duology!
October 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Books for providing the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. I read the first book in this duet for book club and loved it so much, I just had to request the arc for the sequel when it became available!
In this continuation, we see El grappling with the absence of the Haunt while also having to maneuver the political power play she’s been unfortunately pulled into because of Prince Gevulin. Being an ambitious and ruthless man, now that he knows what El literally had hiding up her sleeves he won’t be letting her go so easily. For the sake of her and her beloved boy’s wellbeing, El will need to play her cards just right to get herself and Kem away from the perilous schemes and from the maws of many wicked people eager to devour them. With her bravery, sharp wits, and possibly the help of a beloved dragon, she may just make it out of this alive.
It was so nice to be back in this world! Kate’s world building is phenomenal and her characters so compelling. Everyone from the prince to a minor servant was so well fleshed out, it’s like I’m observing them in person. The author does spend a lot of time describing the infrastructures in great details, and I did get a bit bored during those parts. There was also of course more traveling done in this sequel. So for those who don’t particularly care for quest- centered books, this may not be the story for you.
I am surprised that this is only a duology, as there were many loose ends left untied that there really should be another installment to wrap everything up. By the end, we still don’t know what El truly is and why she has a viper in her heart. I know authors like to leave openings for possible future stories but by doing that, it did leave the ending a little unsatisfying. Hopefully we get one more book in the future to get the answers and resolutions that weren’t given in this one.
In this continuation, we see El grappling with the absence of the Haunt while also having to maneuver the political power play she’s been unfortunately pulled into because of Prince Gevulin. Being an ambitious and ruthless man, now that he knows what El literally had hiding up her sleeves he won’t be letting her go so easily. For the sake of her and her beloved boy’s wellbeing, El will need to play her cards just right to get herself and Kem away from the perilous schemes and from the maws of many wicked people eager to devour them. With her bravery, sharp wits, and possibly the help of a beloved dragon, she may just make it out of this alive.
It was so nice to be back in this world! Kate’s world building is phenomenal and her characters so compelling. Everyone from the prince to a minor servant was so well fleshed out, it’s like I’m observing them in person. The author does spend a lot of time describing the infrastructures in great details, and I did get a bit bored during those parts. There was also of course more traveling done in this sequel. So for those who don’t particularly care for quest- centered books, this may not be the story for you.
I am surprised that this is only a duology, as there were many loose ends left untied that there really should be another installment to wrap everything up. By the end, we still don’t know what El truly is and why she has a viper in her heart. I know authors like to leave openings for possible future stories but by doing that, it did leave the ending a little unsatisfying. Hopefully we get one more book in the future to get the answers and resolutions that weren’t given in this one.
November 26, 2025
ok first i loved this world and the structure of it all - i would like more in this series!
i was hoping to find out more about all the mysteries that had been dropped along the way - the desolation and the changing paths, where the aivur came/come from, what the hell is elen (bc, i’m sorry, what, an egg in your heart, just happens sometimes…), does kem get to rule the world eventually, the pall is what now? and are there more shorn laying around?
but no. just… an incredibly RUSHED, mostly hea (so, FINE. fine.), ending. it was also obvious what would happen, although not who… so the dithering and sad ‘oh it was better to have met him even though we can never be togetherrrrr’ over and over was a bit much. i feel like that specifically is the editor’s fault more than the author though - and maybe there was a deadline or someone was like, "only two books not three, make it snappy" which is sad?
so. anyways. kate elliott is STILL one of my favorite authors of all time. will read anything she writes.
and. i have my fingers crossed she’s not heading towards the GGK moralizing/thinking out loud/elder wisdom dumps throughout forthcoming stories - there was a little cringe of that here but not nearly enough to make the story irritating or unreadable, whew.
i was hoping to find out more about all the mysteries that had been dropped along the way - the desolation and the changing paths, where the aivur came/come from, what the hell is elen (bc, i’m sorry, what, an egg in your heart, just happens sometimes…), does kem get to rule the world eventually, the pall is what now? and are there more shorn laying around?
but no. just… an incredibly RUSHED, mostly hea (so, FINE. fine.), ending. it was also obvious what would happen, although not who… so the dithering and sad ‘oh it was better to have met him even though we can never be togetherrrrr’ over and over was a bit much. i feel like that specifically is the editor’s fault more than the author though - and maybe there was a deadline or someone was like, "only two books not three, make it snappy" which is sad?
so. anyways. kate elliott is STILL one of my favorite authors of all time. will read anything she writes.
and. i have my fingers crossed she’s not heading towards the GGK moralizing/thinking out loud/elder wisdom dumps throughout forthcoming stories - there was a little cringe of that here but not nearly enough to make the story irritating or unreadable, whew.
December 24, 2025
Its a road story, that is really about palace intruque.
Niether title is important. the jaunt to the nameless lands, or four lands, didn't really matter, except to give Elen's background an explanation.
Big problem was no map.
Also only 140 years passed since the Pall, so can't believe the four lands totally forgot their history and created a new religion.
Plenty of back story to explore for this world, as well as continued journey for Elen
The book ends as you would expect it to.
Niether title is important. the jaunt to the nameless lands, or four lands, didn't really matter, except to give Elen's background an explanation.
Big problem was no map.
Also only 140 years passed since the Pall, so can't believe the four lands totally forgot their history and created a new religion.
Plenty of back story to explore for this world, as well as continued journey for Elen
The book ends as you would expect it to.
March 3, 2026
A really solid fantasy. More happened in this book, and I definitely enjoyed it a bit more. I liked expanding the world and getting some answers. However, there are still answers I'd like and I could see more in this world, if Elliott wishes to continue.
December 11, 2025
A fabulous sequel.
February 21, 2026
Palace politics are complicated, even far from any palace. Excellent two part story.
November 26, 2025
Pulled that together nicely, and left enough space in the world to invite future stories. Really fun series.
February 28, 2026
Still an interesting world, with interesting characters… but not super satisfying to have a world where powerful people contest for more power at the expense of the powerless.
November 6, 2025
This picks up straight after The Witch Roads and forms one extended story. There’s lots going on but Elen is the heart of this enthralling fantasy- her integrity drives the plot forward. Highly recommended.
July 7, 2025
Quick very high level summary.
The Nameless Land continues the Journey begun in The Witch Roads. The royal party finds themselves in a mythical land they never imagined they would reach. Its a journey of betrayal, difficult choices, with consequences of the past and demanding that the characters constantly fight for survival. While Erin confronts her past, Prince Gevulin must forge alliances If they wish to survive this journey.
My Take.
The world building is amazing. Such a vivid picture of the politics and social class that are at the center of the plot. There is a lot of information to take in so those who are not used to epic fantasy world building may find it tedious and a bit overwhelming. Me personally, this is just the kind of detail I live for. Elliott paints not just a picture of the journey but she pulls the reader in and immerses them in the story. Through out this book we see both the Prince and Erin continue to develop and grow as they face many life threatening challenges. Overall I enjoyed this book just as much as the first. We are left with some open ended questions so I am sad this is a duology but not mad about the ending at all.
The Nameless Land continues the Journey begun in The Witch Roads. The royal party finds themselves in a mythical land they never imagined they would reach. Its a journey of betrayal, difficult choices, with consequences of the past and demanding that the characters constantly fight for survival. While Erin confronts her past, Prince Gevulin must forge alliances If they wish to survive this journey.
My Take.
The world building is amazing. Such a vivid picture of the politics and social class that are at the center of the plot. There is a lot of information to take in so those who are not used to epic fantasy world building may find it tedious and a bit overwhelming. Me personally, this is just the kind of detail I live for. Elliott paints not just a picture of the journey but she pulls the reader in and immerses them in the story. Through out this book we see both the Prince and Erin continue to develop and grow as they face many life threatening challenges. Overall I enjoyed this book just as much as the first. We are left with some open ended questions so I am sad this is a duology but not mad about the ending at all.
July 3, 2025
Me gasping when I saw that my request for an e-arc has been accpeted. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for graciously granting me an e-arc
I just love this world and the characters that Kate Elliott has woven. I know this is a duology, but I would be ecstatic if more books came out! That said, I am satiated and satisifed with the conclusion of this duology.
There is more travelling in this installment, but I think it's on a quicker pace than the first book and we meet more characters and receive more information about the world. I would gladly read more books in this series just for more lore and world building. The Prince Gevulin has also grown on me with his character development in a surprising way. He was irksome in the first book, but grew into a character I enjoyed, particularly so because of something he does near the end of the book that I shall not spoil.
I believe with the conclusion of this duology that it's been cemented as one of my favorites of this year, I also read it in like a day because I was so excited for it.
5 🌟
I just love this world and the characters that Kate Elliott has woven. I know this is a duology, but I would be ecstatic if more books came out! That said, I am satiated and satisifed with the conclusion of this duology.
There is more travelling in this installment, but I think it's on a quicker pace than the first book and we meet more characters and receive more information about the world. I would gladly read more books in this series just for more lore and world building. The Prince Gevulin has also grown on me with his character development in a surprising way. He was irksome in the first book, but grew into a character I enjoyed, particularly so because of something he does near the end of the book that I shall not spoil.
I believe with the conclusion of this duology that it's been cemented as one of my favorites of this year, I also read it in like a day because I was so excited for it.
5 🌟
November 30, 2025
Wonderfully interesting and intricate world building but if there was ever a book that needed an epilogue, this was it. Left with way too many unanswered questions at the end. I was terribly put off by the fate of a major character, too.
Read
January 24, 2026Feeling mildly betrayed that I thought I was reading a political intrigue magic rollout fantasy but it turns out I was reading a romance, structurally. Which is another way of saying that what I really want is to read the book that comes after this, which doesn't exist because it's a duology. Ah well, still clearly good enough to get me that invested, just do wish I'd realized this going in and set my expectations accordingly.
November 25, 2025
I was very excited to jump back into this world and duology.
Like the first book, I thought the plot and characters were well written in this second book though I would say the pacing wasn't as spot on as the first. Part of that is because one of characters is not with the rest of the group when this second installment starts. Even with that change, I was still engrossed in the cast of characters, which Elliott continues to develop well in this second book.
We do get a lot of good backstory to El and the world in this one although by the end, Elliott has left quite a bit to mystery which again left me wanting more. I couldn't believe the ending!
While I didn't love it quite as much as the first, I still really enjoyed this one!
Thank you, Tor and Netgalley, for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Like the first book, I thought the plot and characters were well written in this second book though I would say the pacing wasn't as spot on as the first. Part of that is because one of characters is not with the rest of the group when this second installment starts. Even with that change, I was still engrossed in the cast of characters, which Elliott continues to develop well in this second book.
We do get a lot of good backstory to El and the world in this one although by the end, Elliott has left quite a bit to mystery which again left me wanting more. I couldn't believe the ending!
While I didn't love it quite as much as the first, I still really enjoyed this one!
Thank you, Tor and Netgalley, for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
March 11, 2026
Ahoy there me mateys! This novel is the direct continuation of the story begun in part one of the duology. It cannot be read as a standalone. After really loving book one, I struggled with this novel. I have a digital copy and tried to read it multiple times with no success. I switched to the audiobook once it was out and was successful in completing this but it had some issues. I think some of the disconnect was personal taste but some was in the plot and writing.
This begins with Elen the courier, "El", at the edge of the Empire where the witch road secretly goes into the nameless lands. Prince Gevulin wasn't supposed to have the memories of being possessed but, unfortunately, this isn't the case. So El and her nephew Kem are in great danger. The Prince and his retinue are about to be ambushed so the party goes into the nameless lands (El's birthplace) to survive and for the prince to potentially make political alliances in order to overthrow the Empire. I had trouble not zoning out because I found both the political bickering and traveling to be boring this time.
And here is where personal preferences also come into play. In the first book, the travelogue is driven by El and her relationship with the spirit who possesses Prince Gevulin. The spirit is not in this one for most of the novel and I just wasn't that into Prince Gevulin's machinations for influence. He is not a likeable character so I did not really care about his survival. His haughtiness was annoying. He does make great strides at being a better person but it was too little and not quite believable.
I also wasn't a fan of the new take on El's past and trauma either. In the first book she is strong-willed and competent and clever. In this book she seems to have a completely different personality. She seems to always be on the defensive, whiny about her missing relationship, and hopeless about her trauma. I felt she had dealt with her past in the previous book and the backslide honestly made no sense to me based on the previous plot and characterization. Also her protectiveness of Kem seemed to led her to silly decisions to keep him safe. Kem, however, was maturing as an adult and showing skills so to treat him like a lost child was grating.
The audiobook did not help with El's characterization. The narrator, Ella Lynch, did a great job with the voices and performances for all of the other aspects of the novel. El, sadly, had a high-pitched breathy youthful sounding voice. This choice added to the sensation that El was weak, whinging, and ineffectual. The narrator seemed to have a different, more normal, speaking voice and I was both perplexed and confused why such a directing choice was chosen. I know this was personal preference but combined with the switch in El's focus and character, it kinda drove me crazy and made me dislike a previously loved character.
As for the plot and writing, the majority of the novel was a miss. I did love the additional insight into the formation of the Empire, how the nameless lands were cut off from the rest of civilization, and learning a bit more about the Spore. I did not completely understand the other groups in the nameless lands. Where they different factions or different races or what? What exactly was the magic and how did it work. Why are there different types of water and what do they do exactly? I still about a bit unclear about aspects of the Spore and the larger ramifications.
Also the romance elements of this novel bothered me. In the case of El, her love interest materialized for parts of the plot out of nowhere. Though given how my attention would sometimes wander, maybe I missed something. There was also a bit of lust or something going on with members of the Prince's retinue but I got a bit lost about who was who and who liked who. I think there was a couple that should get admit attraction and get together and another that was having an affair but, honestly, I have no idea.
The last problematic aspect was the climax. The twist about the politics was silly and also came out of nowhere. The highborn seemed super naïve given how the Court politics were described elsewhere in the series. That said, I loved what happened to both Prince Gevulin and El at the end of the novel.
So the experience ended on a high note which upped the overall rating in my head. Given how much of my discontent was personal tastes, I would say that I am in the minority. I do love the world building and history of the Empire. I find the Spore and spirits and temples fascinating and would love to learn more about those aspects.
Luckily, the author's website has updates. She says:
and there is another novel in the same world with no publication date. She says:
I will be reading those novels especially given what the website says about the potential plots. Arrrr!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This begins with Elen the courier, "El", at the edge of the Empire where the witch road secretly goes into the nameless lands. Prince Gevulin wasn't supposed to have the memories of being possessed but, unfortunately, this isn't the case. So El and her nephew Kem are in great danger. The Prince and his retinue are about to be ambushed so the party goes into the nameless lands (El's birthplace) to survive and for the prince to potentially make political alliances in order to overthrow the Empire. I had trouble not zoning out because I found both the political bickering and traveling to be boring this time.
And here is where personal preferences also come into play. In the first book, the travelogue is driven by El and her relationship with the spirit who possesses Prince Gevulin. The spirit is not in this one for most of the novel and I just wasn't that into Prince Gevulin's machinations for influence. He is not a likeable character so I did not really care about his survival. His haughtiness was annoying. He does make great strides at being a better person but it was too little and not quite believable.
I also wasn't a fan of the new take on El's past and trauma either. In the first book she is strong-willed and competent and clever. In this book she seems to have a completely different personality. She seems to always be on the defensive, whiny about her missing relationship, and hopeless about her trauma. I felt she had dealt with her past in the previous book and the backslide honestly made no sense to me based on the previous plot and characterization. Also her protectiveness of Kem seemed to led her to silly decisions to keep him safe. Kem, however, was maturing as an adult and showing skills so to treat him like a lost child was grating.
The audiobook did not help with El's characterization. The narrator, Ella Lynch, did a great job with the voices and performances for all of the other aspects of the novel. El, sadly, had a high-pitched breathy youthful sounding voice. This choice added to the sensation that El was weak, whinging, and ineffectual. The narrator seemed to have a different, more normal, speaking voice and I was both perplexed and confused why such a directing choice was chosen. I know this was personal preference but combined with the switch in El's focus and character, it kinda drove me crazy and made me dislike a previously loved character.
As for the plot and writing, the majority of the novel was a miss. I did love the additional insight into the formation of the Empire, how the nameless lands were cut off from the rest of civilization, and learning a bit more about the Spore. I did not completely understand the other groups in the nameless lands. Where they different factions or different races or what? What exactly was the magic and how did it work. Why are there different types of water and what do they do exactly? I still about a bit unclear about aspects of the Spore and the larger ramifications.
Also the romance elements of this novel bothered me. In the case of El, her love interest materialized for parts of the plot out of nowhere. Though given how my attention would sometimes wander, maybe I missed something. There was also a bit of lust or something going on with members of the Prince's retinue but I got a bit lost about who was who and who liked who. I think there was a couple that should get admit attraction and get together and another that was having an affair but, honestly, I have no idea.
The last problematic aspect was the climax. The twist about the politics was silly and also came out of nowhere. The highborn seemed super naïve given how the Court politics were described elsewhere in the series. That said, I loved what happened to both Prince Gevulin and El at the end of the novel.
So the experience ended on a high note which upped the overall rating in my head. Given how much of my discontent was personal tastes, I would say that I am in the minority. I do love the world building and history of the Empire. I find the Spore and spirits and temples fascinating and would love to learn more about those aspects.
Luckily, the author's website has updates. She says:
First of all, I wrote the entirety of THE FLOWER COURT, a Witch Roads universe novel. It’s a hefty novel although when I started it I was absolutely sure I could bring it in at a brisk 100,000 words. Ha ha, no, but it did squeak in as a chonky standalone, and is currently scheduled for publication in January 2027.
and there is another novel in the same world with no publication date. She says:
I have also written (so far) about 50,000 words of WHEN THE WOLVES COME, another Witch Roads universe novel. This standalone features yet a different set of main characters and takes place on the eastern frontier in a story that opens a few months after the end of THE FLOWER COURT.
I will be reading those novels especially given what the website says about the potential plots. Arrrr!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2025
DNF at 20%. Maybe it's because I just read a few beautifully written books, but the writing that gave me slight pause when reading the first book just was too much for me in this. And why did we have so much detail about the latrine and not about other things? Very odd. I don't think I'll finish this duology
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