Words of Power: A Progression Fantasy Epic

Words of Power #1

by Shami Stovall, Ryan H. Reid (Narrator)

A magic-fueled progression fantasy adventure from Dragon Award winning author Shami Stovall.

Power is not given. It’s taken.

In the Tze Empire, spirits and demons rule the wilds, but Ring Warlocks control civilization. For Rimon, the son of a courtesan and lowest in society, Ring Warlocks seem like gods.

Each has their own magic drawn from Titans, and they can do whatever they please, regardless of how it affects the prefectures they rule.

But when a chance encounter places one of the ancient and powerful rings in Rimon’s hands, everything changes. For there is a trick to the rings, and Rimon sees through the test given to him.

Suddenly, he is no longer a player at the fringes of power; he is a Ring Warlock and granted his own territory.

Determined to make sure his prefecture thrives, Rimon must contend with jealous rivals, demons seeking his ring for themselves, and forces he cannot yet name, all while mastering his new abilities. He will prove even the lowest can rise to challenge gods.

Rimon will have to grow twice as strong as his rival warlocks just to survive in this new Progression Fantasy Adventure by Shami Stovall, the Dragon-Award winning author of Knightmare Arcanist !

Genres: Fantasy

Audible Audio

Published July 22, 2025

About the author

Shami Stovall is a multi-award-winning author of fantasy and science fiction. Before that, she taught history and criminal law at the college level, and loved every second. When she’s not reading fascinating articles and books about ancient China or the Byzantine Empire, Stovall can be found playing way too many video games, especially RPGs and tactics simulators.

If you want to contact her, you can do so at the following locations:

Website: https://sastovallauthor.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GameOverStation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAStovall/
Email: s.adelle.s@gmail.com

Reviews

[Jonathan Koan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a superb novel by Shami Stovall! This book has tremendous pacing, excellent action, an understandable magic system, relatable characters, and an overall great story. I read this book incredibly fast and did not want it to end.

I was nervous getting into the book, because I'd never read "Progression Fantasy" and had heard horror stories from readers of "LitRPG" books, but I'm delighted to say that this book is just a fun fantasy story. The Progression part of it is there, but it's not like there are stats or anything like that. We see our main character get stronger, but the story is more about him gaining power and consolidating his control over his province.

I really liked the character of Ketsu, who was the scholar advising our main character Rimon. Ketsu's humor and style really resonated with me. I also really liked the character of Rimon, and while he is somewhat over powered in the book, his personality and his charm really won me over.

The book tackles some interesting themes about the nature of power, about control over others, and especially has some themes about hurting innocents and helping the larger whole. The moral dilemma that Rimon faces in this book is just incredibly well written.

The book does feature some interesting creatures, and let me tell you, they gave me the heebie-jeebies (in a good way). Shami includes some creatures that are horrifying, yet we are supposed to empathize with, and also includes some creatures that are horrifying which we are supposed to root for their deaths. It's a fine line, but Shami handles it perfectly!

The book has a natural, satisfying ending, but man it has me pumped for book 2, especially as you can tell where Shami is taking us. I cannot wait to read it.

I absolutely loved this book. What I anticipated being a chore turned out to be an absolute delight! 9.5 out of 10! Well done Shami Stovall!!

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words of Power is a fantastic start to a new series by Shami Stovall. It captured my attention from the first page and kept a firm grip on me, page after page. The world-building is among the best I’ve encountered. The story is mesmerizing and filled with surprising twists and turns that keep the pages turning. The more I read, the more I wanted to keep reading. I was pulled deeper into the story as the world around me faded away.

I absolutely loved the magic and enjoyed learning more about it as the story unfolded. I appreciated that we didn’t learn everything about the magic and its workings from the beginning. The magic was distinctive in its way. I loved how the magic evolved or perhaps intensified with each use. I liked how the character discovered how to wield his magic and learned about it alongside us.

The descriptions were so well executed that I had no trouble visualizing everything in my mind as if I were part of it. I could see the magic flowing from Rimon into the trees. I could easily picture the clothes they wore. I can’t wait to dive deeper into this new series, Word of Power. I’m eager to see what the next story has in store for us.

Words of Power offers a wealth of content, including unique magic, power, demons, spirits, and numerous individuals who seek this power and will do anything to seize control of it.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of Words of Power today!

[Jeremy Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was incredible start to a series. This feels like a mix of Mistborn and Drizzt but it also feels so fresh in avoiding a lot of the normal fantasy setting tropes. The main character Rimon is a character I find myself continuing to root for in that he tries to do good, feels guilt when he is forced to break his ethics but also does it with a purpose to better the land he has inherited. My favorite interaction is between Rimon and the Warden a mysterious voice only he can hear that “guides” him in both his powers as well as some of the other characters that appear in the book. The Warden is a somewhat sinister character and it’s not apparent what he is or what his endgame is. We also see some terrifying creatures along the way that contribute to the world building. Lastly, there is some explaining that happens regarding the powers as it is a progression fantasy (my first) but it’s not overdone. There are no long histories or background just simple explanation and I think that works perfectly.

[Sunday Okafor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author delivered everything he promised in this book. It's a very satisfying and action-packed progression fantasy, it has no overreacting plotline, the dialogue is well written and the characters each have a distinct voice.

The book is plainly about a young man trying to build something and keep his people safe, he goes about it the only way he could -by accumulating enough power to ensure that safety.

The only issue I had with the book is that the protagonist wasn't challenged enough, and a lot of things did come to him easily, but I honestly didn't mind that too much.

[Jay Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great start to series , easy 4 stars.

[Dantegideon · Rating 2 out of 5]

“I have attained ultimate power through the shadow god! Now, to make a bunch of minor administrative changes! Mwa-ha-ha-ha- what do you mean I’m doing it wrong?”

[Andrew Jablonski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this and finished it in record time. Really enjoyed the story and look forward to future installments. Shami is a great storyteller and this is another great new world created.!

[David Whitlock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was an ARC reader and am so glad I accepted the opportunity.

Amazing book. This book was a new concept that I have not come across in all the books I've read. It was a breath of fresh air compared to the repetitive concepts that are coming out now. It combines intrigue, fantasy, and lore, some old lore and some new. I can't wait for the rest of the series!

[J. McGrath · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was an ARC reader for this book, but all opinions are my own.
Overall, I'm left a little lukewarm on this. The power system and the world are interesting, but the characters are not. Rimon is probably the prime example of this, being nice but little more. I see the arc that is being set up for him, and it could work, but it has not started yet, just hinted at. If more time is spent on the world in the coming volumes, this could be a worthwhile start, but for now, it is just okay.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent beginning to this unique and magical new fantasy series.

Words of Power is the first book in author Shami Stovall’s exciting new fantasy series of the same name and features the son of a courtesan born into slavery who rises to lead the province as a powerful Ring Warlock. When Garrain Wist, a dangerously intoxicated Ring Warlock, chokes to death during a visit to the Scarlet Lantern brothel, lowly house boy Rimon picks up the warlock’s ring and places it on his own hand, becoming a Ring Warlock himself and Garrain’s heir as well. His initial thought was that the ring might bring him the means to protect the young courtesan who had been entertaining the warlock, the staff of the Scarlet Lantern, and himself from reprisals from Garrain’s people and the other Ring Warlocks. While he accomplishes his purpose, he also discovers he is not the owner of Garrion’s estate and the ruler responsible for the northern half of the Rovik Prefecture.

Knowing little about his new power or how to control or wield it effectively, Rimon travels to Castle Wist with the former warlock’s learned servant, Ketsu. As they get closer to the estate, they pass acres and acres of fields of food crops dying under the onslaught of their twin suns. Rimon learns that the estate is failing to thrive, and its people are literally starving to death; it is now up to him to act before it is too late.

Rimon is such a kind, earnest, and endearing character, one whom readers are bound to root for as he learns about his new situation and power and tries to bring stability and prosperity back to the people living and working in the shadows of Castle Wist and the surrounding mountains. Throughout the story, he consistently seeks the best course of action for everyone under his care. But talk about blindly jumping into the unknown with both feet! Rimon was so desperate after Garrain’s death that he put on his ring without knowing anything about the possible repercussions. This was preferable to the predictable actions of the other Ring Warlocks.

The plot moves quickly from the very start. I enjoyed the unique concept of choosing six words to draw a felheen (titan) to bind with the new wearer of the warlock’s ring. The author’s creative and thoughtfully measured world-building made for a vivid and immersive experience. I could easily visualize the Asian-themed settings and all that populated and brought color to the story. There is a palpable miasma of fear throughout the Rovik Prefecture, a product of the Ring Warlock’s rule and the presence of violent and frightening supernatural creatures operating unchecked for so long. However, I was surprised and delighted by the many kindnesses that other characters secretly showed to Rimon as he began his new life. Similarly, the magic system was revealed slowly and steadily in easily absorbed bites to both the readers and the character Rimon organically as part of a scene, rather than in a long exposition.

The author’s storytelling drew me in from page one, and I was completely engrossed in this story for the first half of the book before I had to take a break. The ending came all too soon, but there is the promise of more to come. I recommend WORDS OF POWER to readers of fantasy, action, and adventure.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours.

[Andy Peloquin · Rating 5 out of 5]

TL;DR Review: A new approach to leveling up and gaining power. A progression fantasy hero unlike any other, and a fresh addition to the genre.

Full Review:
Words of Power impressed me with its ability to play within genre lines while also striking out in the direction of the fresh and new!
In this story, we’re introduced to Rimon, a brothel-born slave whose job is to care for the courtesans under the brothel’s roof. But when the danger to one of those closest to him compels him to act, he finds himself with the opportunity to seize power—in the form of a magical ring that binds him to an ancient titan, granting him abilities beyond his wildest imagining.
His choice imbues him with death magic, but it’s done cleverly so things are not quite as they first appear. As we discover his abilities along with him, his path to power becomes clear.
Only he doesn’t go about things as we expect. He’s elevated to the station of ruler of the entire province in which he was born a slave, but rather than seizing power with both hands, he takes a clever, cunning approach to infiltrating the highest echelons of his realm to see how things really work behind the Ring Warlock’s back. Once he’s got the information he needs, he’ll make his move and claim his throne.
The character’s thoughtful, measured, and above all, decent approach to every situation made him a protagonist I really enjoyed. It had a really upbeat tone that made the story very enjoyable and left me feeling lighter and happier with every chapter because no matter how hard things got, I could always count on the character to at least try to do what’s right. In a world filled with grimdark and dark fantasy where everyone is some shade of moral gray, it’s always a pleasure to read a character who chooses the route of goodness and decency.
The world was fascinating, too. It’s filled with spirits, demons, titans, great beasts, powerful magical forces, and grand threats that promise great adventures the farther in we go. For now, though, it was enough to simply want to learn about the small day-to-day aspects of running the province and building his community of people he can count on to help him be a good, wise, and just ruler.
There are challenges and dangers aplenty, but as Rimon assembles his collection of hand-picked allies, he’ll grow stronger—until he can challenge powers far beyond his.
Words of Power is an excellent introduction to a new progression fantasy series, one that prioritizes intelligence and decency over the ability to punch or blast enemies. It’s a more thoughtful progression fantasy series I am very much looking forward to continuing!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Born in a brothel, Rimon is raised by courtesans or what we call “ladies of the night”. He is well-schooled and has many jobs as he grows up, but the most important one is to make sure the girls are always safe. Some men of power, Warlocks and such, can be very cruel. On the particular night that this story begins, Rimon is doing just that. Concerned that Lietta will be hurt, he stays nearby and by doing so his life will change forever.

I have read other Shami Stovall books, and I’ve said some of the same things. Can one plagiarize oneself? To begin with I’m not into this magic fantasy “stuff” and yet she always catches my attention within a few pages, and I’m racing off reading as fast as I can.

I’ve also said it is as if she is writing fairy tales. To me this it isn’t about creating a world and using all of the proper steps to fit a fantasy novel. She seems to build a story that almost anyone could identify with. And this book, oh wow, is it a story. Full of magic and Ring Warlocks, good men and bad.

But what I enjoyed the most was the constant bit of humor, funny and sarcastic and yet serious. Sometimes I was laughing and at others I had my fingers crossed hoping that things would be ok. It made this reading flow so fast. Way too fast. Please hurry with a second book.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to start with this one? Ok first, I am NOT someone who reads/enjoys Progression fantasies. Most times they are SO over the top, with some annoying 'hud' voice in their mind/eye. This? Its there....but more its a character as well and does not take away from the story. Story moves fast, as one would expect from a young adult book, and that is perfect. Story will keep your attention till the end, with an ending battle that feels a touch rushed but nothing terrible. The overarching story is JUST getting started, can't wait to read move.
Overall the book had a feel of those Saturday shows of old, with each small problem slowly taken care of then moved on, rolled into the whole world and story.

If I could take anyway away (and debated a half star lose, but didn't in the end) There are some small grammar mistakes (This is a day one print, so I am sure later copies will have these fixed). The Main character does have an odd 3rd act personality shift I didn't enjoy, and didn't feel like it should be done that way, but holding my criticism till after book 2, to see how this effects him and his actions. I also hope we get more insight into the 'odd trait' he has (that I won't point out here, no spoilers).

All in all a rare treat for me, and now I wait a loooong time for book two! <3

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so freaking excited to read this book…the start of a brand-new series by Shami Stovall. I think I might have enjoyed it even more than Knightmare Arcanist and I loved that book!

The main character in Words of Power, Rimon, is more mature and has seen more of the world in many ways. He’s not jaded by any means, but he’s also not as naive. This gives him so many more layers and really deepens the story.

He is idealistic, but already there are forces at work that make the reader wonder how… or if… he will be able to maintain that idealism and his desire for right over might throughout the series.

And, I absolutely love the other characters in the book…and what a varied group they are. I’ll not give you any spoilers, but I think I can honestly say there are characters here I’ve never seen before.

As the first book in the series, there is naturally some word building, but the author does it so seamlessly, the reader is drawn into this world very organically. And, also as the first book in the series, not all storylines are tied up with a pretty bow. There’s not really a cliffhanger, but there is definitely more to look forward to, all the time ending in a very satisfied way.

Kudo, Ms. Stovall… and I am waiting anxiously for the next book!

[Trevor]

If you are a fan of Shami Stovall then you will be a fan of this book. If you have no idea who she is, well, you will read this and then begin plowing through her many other stories. In this book she has branched out yet again and found a genre that she wanted to explore in her own writing style. This time she tackles a progression fantasy with an Asian flair. She creates a very unique magic system that she builds the entire story and world around. As with many of her books this just serves to wet the throat and leaves you gasping for more literature at the end. The protagonist is quite likable and his sensibilities are compelling as he navigates his path to power. It wouldn’t be a Shami story if there weren’t interaction with creatures and she richly weaves them into the story line. Finishing the first book off with a suitable villain with the promise of more to come in future novels wraps this whole experience up in a nice bow. Give this book a read and enjoy it and her many other works afterwards.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to warn you - this book is only going to leave you dying for book two! Stovall paints such vivid imagery that I felt like I was walking into a different world, one where magical power is truly king, ruling more than even money. The opening scene both made my stomach twist in knots while endearing Rimon to me. It’s amazing how so few lines can give you so much insight to a character. Although I’ve read stories where someone low-born rises above their station, but the way this was presented felt fresh and new somehow, and I truly enjoyed every moment of reading it. The story itself has excellent pacing and keeps you hooked with twists and plenty of tension. The world and magic system are brought to you at a good pace, without being unloaded too quickly. (No info dumps here)! If you’re looking for your next magical fantasy to dive into, this should be top of your list!

[Shakib · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful beginning to a series


Words of Power by Shami Stovall was an absolute delight. Even though I had sworn off progression fantasy, Shami writes exactly the way I love to read—simple, sweet, and fun. She understands that with the sheer number of fantasy books out there, there’s no need to rehash the same old coming-of-age tropes.

So when the story kicked off in a brothel with the main character working as a servant, I was immediately intrigued. Enter a powerful Ring Warlock—and just like that, we’re off on a thrilling adventure.

This is very much a young adult fantasy, but refreshingly free of the usual teenage angst. The power progression is handled with a light touch—no dense systems or complicated rules—just a wonderfully told story that sweeps you along.

I had a great time with this one. I’m definitely in for the series and can’t wait for the next book!

[Craig Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

another great book from an amazing author

This book was a great surprise for me. I didn’t expect to love it so much the characters and magic system are amazing. In my opinion it is one of the best new worlds I have read in awhile. I am looking forward to October so I can read the second book. As with all her books the characters are well written and have real personality. Shami has become one of my favorite authors. I tell everyone who reads they need to read her work. She could be the next Ra Salvatore or Brandon Sanderson she is that great at bringing her worlds to life

[Bruce Parrello · Rating 5 out of 5]

New, Different, and Old-Fashioned

I read this book in less than 24 hours. It was very difficult to put down.

This is a book of Third Ways. The protagonist is a moral individual in a deeply amoral world. He is constantly faced with dilemmas where he must make one of two bad choices, and he uses his intellect to come up with a third way that is better. This is one of the best kinds of adventures, and it makes for very compelling reading.

The hero's progression is handled with an unusual mechanic, and this also makes the book fun and interesting.

I am very anxious to read the next book.

[Chad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words have so much meaning and even more so when you gain your power from them, how would you pick your words to focus your power? And how would you twist meanings to make them more? This book takes these concepts and turns it into an amazing power system full of interesting people and creatures. The creativity and natures of power explored are so wonderful to see and I need the second book as soon as possible! If you like creative magic systems and interesting characters and enjoy a little dash of creative word play, this is the book for you.

[Cwsmythe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Snoozefest.

This book was pretty rough. The characters were flat and underdeveloped, even the MC seemed shallow. The premise was thin and there wasn't nearly enough attention paid to the magic or the progression (such as it was). Rife with typos, which for someone with the author's history of publication is unacceptable.

It read more like someone's first crack at writing a novel, or their first attempt to get ChatGPT to write one for them than something crafted with care and attention.

[Leslie Baptiste · Rating 4 out of 5]

good book great story good MC, well worth the read.

This is the first time I’ve read anything by this author. The book was very good, a fast fun read, good story, progression, and power progression, excellent MC and side characters. Can’t say anything bad about the story. Read it from beginning to end in one sitting. It held my interest and isn’t that what we all want from a story that we sit down to read. Will read the next book when available.

[Shaeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story by Shami Stovall!! Words of Power is the beginning of an exciting adventure!! I love the magic system and all the clever ways it can be used. I love the mysterious Warden and the Felheen and Dayvu. I cannot wait to see what Rimon and pals do next!! The possibilities are endless!!

[Lj · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous adventure with superb world-building. It is well written and engaging, drawing you in right from the start and holds enough twists and turns and likeable, well portrayed characters to keep you reading right though and leave you disapointed when you reach the end because now you have to wait for book two before you can read more.

I received an ARC and leave an honest review.

[Tony Hinde · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had fun with this book and would happily continue. Having said that, the protagonist, Rimon, is such a Mary Sue. Despite being a lowly bouncer in a brothel, he has somehow learned all the skills necessary to rule. Not only that, but nothing he tries ever fails.

The whole under-cover-boss thing took me by surprise. So entertaining.

[Tiago Ferreira · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gripping Fantasy with a unique power system

Words of Power hooked me from the start. The magic system is super original, and the characters actually feel real and complex. There’s a great mix of action, emotion, and twists that kept me turning pages. Shami Stovall really knows how to tell a story ! Can't wait for the next book !

[Tyrel Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid and good writing, I didn't even notice it was Shami but that makes sense now.

Overall, it's a good entry.
I would have done stuff differently and leaned into the more Cultivation expectations, but this is a bit slower buildup of power and felt more Western in the style of story it built. Hopefully more payoffs in the next volume.

[Lylla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent new book

Shami writes an epic new tale from underdog to big dog wish that the new book could come out sooner than october that's a long wait. Still a little confusing. The little prologs before the chapters were a nice touch.

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

bloody brilliant

Another great book with a unique form of magic.

Really interested in the warden, I have some theories about who or what he is. Can’t wait to read the next book, I finished this one in a single day I couldn’t put it down

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great new series

Shami Stovall's new fantasy series is the first fantasy I've read in years- and I thoroughly enjoyed it. An interesting main lead and a fulfilling, unique universe setting - it should prove fun to learn more about it.