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A Promise of Power: Book One of The Etherborn

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“... the many skirmishes, battles, and action scenes throughout this novel excel at keeping the story thrilling—at which points many fans of the fantasy genre will find it impossible to put A PROMISE OF POWER down.” -IndieReader (IR Approved)

A Promise of Power —the explosive first installment in the Etherborn series—is a sweeping tale of power, war, and ancient magic. Perfect for fans of The Priory of the Orange Tree and A Game of Thrones, this book delivers character-driven storytelling, rich world-building, political intrigue, and the heart-pounding, high-stakes battles of John Gwynne.

Born for war. Shattered by secrets. Bound by magic.

Trained since birth to be the catalyst for her father’s ambitions, Neith Dracos will have to decide if these ambitions are also her own.

Born a king's bastard, Calithea Ironne has known only privilege and peace. But when war reaches her home, long-kept secrets rise to the surface — and nothing she thought she knew will survive them.

All Nara Nyanthi wants is a quiet life with the woman she loves. As one of the most powerful wielders in the Esērii, she finds herself at odds with the High Council over their designs for her. When a long-feared war begins, Nara must choose where she stands and what she believes in.

Three women, unknown to one another, will soon find their lives intertwined as war rages and magic returns to the known world.

734 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 23, 2025

13 people are currently reading
131 people want to read

About the author

Rachel Enriquez

1 book9 followers
Rachel Enriquez is a former tech professional turned literary fantasy author driven by a lifelong passion for immersive storytelling and imaginative world-building. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, she lives with her husband and their two sons. When not writing, Rachel enjoys creating visual art, diving into a great book or game, and spending time with her family. Her work explores identity, human connection, and the consequences of power, blending layered plots, emotionally resonant characters, and elements of the fantastic.

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5 stars
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8 (25%)
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Agnes Odek.
178 reviews13 followers
December 31, 2025
Three women have different pasts but the same future: war. Focused on Neith, Nara, and Calithea as the protagonists, the character development was well executed. They have to forge their own paths or settle for what is bestowed upon them, and these female characters didn’t disappoint. Love, magic, ambition, and power drive this book, making it more enjoyable as well as its fast-paced nature. Will Neith follow her father's ambitions? Will Calithea believe the uncovered secrets, and will Nara choose war or peace? A Promise of Power, Book One of The Etherborn by Rachel, is a captivating read that I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Tara Jones.
3 reviews
September 1, 2025
I could not put this book down! The world building and character development are exceptional. The female protagonist are all strong and their own rights and so different in their personalities. It’s amazing the amount of growth written into each of them within the 760 pages of this book. The story is engaging and unique. There are unexpected twist that add to the drama of the story. The story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book.

PS – yes there is mild spice for those who need to know lol
Profile Image for Astrid.
17 reviews29 followers
March 16, 2026
This is a book I knew I would enjoy from the first first page:

“The village burned. Bright, beneath the shroud of night. At such a distance, it appeared to breathe. Gentle inhales and exhales, swelling and subsiding. Distant screams united in choir, echoing up the mountainside.”

The writing instantly pulled me in. Next, it was the magic. It’s not trying too hard, but it still feels unique & multifaceted; I loved the concept of ether and the ways it can be wielded.

“I often feel I have little to say and very little of it wise.” “Spoken like someone with true wisdom.”

And the characters!!! This author clearly has her own unique perspective on humans and all the ways they can be wonderful and horrible. I loved the three main characters, yes, but I also appreciated that the secondary characters aren’t flat or one-dimensional, rather they feel like real people with fully formed personalities & motivations of their own.

“We are all a villain in someone’s story. A person takes from us, so we take from another. On and on it goes. To change this, you’d have to change the entire world.”

Because of the three different perspectives we get, nothing is black and white and there really is no singular “villain,” which is what I look for in fantasy. I find that stories like this are so much more worthwhile and impactful. I’m sooo excited to see where this goes & I’ll be waiting for book 2. Thank you SO MUCH to the author for kindly gifting me a copy!
Profile Image for Kristin.
1 review
September 9, 2025
I was lucky enough to be able to read an advance copy of this novel and I was drawn in from the very beginning.

From the very first chapter, this novel plunges readers into a vivid world where magic, "ether", pulses through the veins of its people and war looms over every horizon. With its masterful blend of high-stakes battles, intricate world-building, and unforgettable characters, this book delivers a fantasy experience that is as exhilarating as it is emotionally resonant.

This book is a triumph in the fantasy genre. Fans of magical lore, strategic warfare, and emotionally complex storytelling will find themselves captivated from beginning to end.
1 review1 follower
September 11, 2025
I was fortunate enough to get a pre-release copy of Promise of Power. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is a fan of fantasy but also anyone who is wanting to step their toes into reading the fantasy genre. Instantly in the first few pages you will become immersed in a world of magic and conflict that is richly described and thoroughly detailed. The characters have so much depth as you follow them as they grow because of the conflicts both external and internal. There is action, political drama, and romance all magnificently written. I can’t wait to see what lies ahead.
1 review
September 16, 2025
It was a fantastic read, immediately immersing me in an intriguing new world. This exciting adventure/fantasy has everything you could want: war, good and bad characters, love stories, drama, pain, abuse, friendship, loyalty, and so much more.

Rachel's ability to use words to create descriptive scenery and characters allows for spectacular imagery. The main characters are all female, all entirely different, and all strong, intelligent, and relatable. This first book is definitely a coming-of-age story for many of them. I literally read the last half of the book over about three days while working because I just couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see how things develop in the next book!
1 review
August 16, 2025
This book exceeded my expectations. I describe it as GOT meets Jane Austen. Read A Promise of Power if you like high fantasy, read it if you like literary fiction, read it if you like action. Rachel Enriquez has written a witty and exciting action packed book with deeply interesting characters.
Profile Image for Slmarie.
128 reviews
December 11, 2025
One of the things that stood out to me about A Promise of Power happened before the story even began. I’ve read a lot of fantasy books, but I’ve never seen an author prepare the reader the way author Rachel Enriquez does here. Right from the start, she gives you a content warning through a quick link so you can see exactly what kinds of heavy topics might show up. I thought this was incredibly considerate. Books can deal with difficult moments just like movies do, and it felt good to know the author cared enough to make sure readers weren’t caught off guard.

Another feature I really appreciated was the pronunciation guide. In fantasy stories, names of people and places can be hard to guess, and sometimes I find myself unsure if I’m saying things right in my head. Enriquez solved that problem immediately. It made the world feel more real, almost like she was handing me the keys so I could step into the story the right way. Then, right after that, there’s a map. Having it at the front made a big difference because I knew where everything was before the action even started. All of this setup made me feel welcomed into the book’s world instead of just dropped into it.

The story itself is rich and exciting. The writing is very descriptive, and the world-building is full of detail. The author’s imagination really shows, and you can tell she put a lot of care into designing the culture, the magic, and the conflicts. The book follows three different women whose lives are completely different from one another, but they all get pulled into the same growing danger. Each character feels strong in her own way, and it was interesting to watch how their choices shape the events around them.

Even though the book is long, it stays engaging because the stakes keep rising. There are emotional moments, battles, secrets, and a sense that the world is on the edge of something huge. The writing style makes it easy to picture what’s happening, and I enjoyed the way the author mixed action with character development.

Overall, A Promise of Power feels like the start of a big series that has a lot to offer. The way the book is set up from the warnings, to the pronunciation guide, to the map, all made me feel fully prepared for the journey. Also once the story began, the writing kept me hooked. If you enjoy fantasy worlds with deep history, strong characters, and a mix of magic and conflict, this is a great choice.
111 reviews3 followers
December 15, 2025
Nothing strips one of their humanity like the pursuit of power. This line captures the essence of the book perfectly. It is a story about what power does to people. It shows how power can shape a person’s identity, break families, start wars, and twist good intentions. The book argues that power always has a cost, no matter who holds it.

The book follows three women—Neith, Nara, and Thea—who each struggle with different kinds of power. Magical power. Political power. Emotional power. Every form of power brings danger, pressure, and moral choices that cannot be avoided. Through Neith, the book shows how leaders use power to control others. She commits acts that shock even herself. She just follows orders, but she also feels guilt and fear. Nara’s chapters follow a different kind of power struggle. She brings freedom and control into the picture. She is the character who most clearly sees the moral rot in every faction, including her own, making her the story’s pragmatic moral realist. Thea brings a more personal form of power. She deals with fear, panic attacks, and strict expectations from her royal family. Her story asks what happens when the world demands strength from someone who is breaking inside.

This book is lengthy, comprising 81 chapters or 720 pages, and its length has given the author the opportunity to create an immersive and highly detailed world-building. The chapters are emotionally charged, and alternating between multiple POVs makes it challenging but very rewarding for readers who enjoy deep, character-driven stories. The novel has the potential to reshape readers’ understanding of strength, leadership, and love. It reminds us that power is never free, and its price is always paid by someone.
Profile Image for Octavia.
137 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2025
A Promise of Power, written by Rachel Enriquez, focuses on three different perspectives: Neith Dracos, who is dealing with following her father's ambition, although she's not sure if it's hers as well; Calithea Ironne, who is dealing with being the king's illegitimate daughter and the duties that come with it; and Nara Nyanthi, who has her own agenda as she's dealing with being away from the woman she loves and what she has to do for her people. Each of them has their own story that intertwines to make a complete picture. With these three different perspectives, Rachel Enriquez takes the reader on an unforgettable journey of finding oneself and fighting for what's right.

This was an interesting start for the first book in The Etherborn series. Rachel Enriquez did a fantastic job of building a world where three young women from different backgrounds come together to fight for the greater good. The detailing and description were remarkable. There were so many emotional moments that would keep readers on the edge. The way that Rachel Enriquez wrote this story made it truly incredible. Readers would know that she put her all into it.

Even though the story is incredible, it does take a bit of time to get to the good stuff. It's slow-paced, this one. It would've ruined the story if not for how great it was. Another thing would be if Rachel Enriquez had kept a pattern when it came to going to the next character. At first it goes with Neith's point of view, then Nara's, and lastly Calithea's, but it changes up very quickly.

Other than those two things, the story is very enjoyable. Those who enjoy stories like Game of Thrones will definitely enjoy it. This novel gets a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
141 reviews10 followers
December 15, 2025
Character-Driven Fantasy with Depth and Momentum

A PROMISE OF POWER offers an engaging introduction to a world on the brink of conflict, where magic stirs after generations of silence. The story follows three women whose lives unfold in distinct corners of the realm, each shaped by different expectations and burdens. Neith, Calithea, and Nara bring unique perspectives that allow the narrative to feel broad yet personal. Their paths move separately at first, but the tension of an emerging war gradually draws them toward one another.

The world-building in A PROMISE OF POWER is detailed without feeling overwhelming, and the political and magical elements work together to create a sense of rising stakes. Scenes are described with clarity, making it easy to picture the landscapes, the cities, and the battles that shape the story. Some chapters are dense, yet the depth adds value for readers who enjoy slow-burn fantasy. The emotional arc of each protagonist provides an anchor amid the larger plot.

As the threads of the three narratives begin to intertwine, A PROMISE OF POWER becomes even more compelling. The novel balances action, character development, and mystery in a way that keeps readers invested. It also introduces questions about destiny, loyalty, and the cost of wielding power. This helps give the story a lasting impact. This first installment sets a strong foundation for the rest of the Etherborn series.
Profile Image for Charles Magesa.
147 reviews8 followers
December 17, 2025
An Exciting and Immersive Story

A PROMISE OF POWER: BOOK ONE OF THE ETHERBORN by Rachel Enriquez is an exciting story that pulls readers into a world of magic, fantasy, and romance. The author did a great job with world-building and character development. The scenes are well thought out and vividly described, so reading the book naturally transports the reader to the time and place of the events.

Rachel uses a unique storytelling approach that is character-driven, allowing the reader to follow each of the main characters' stories. Although the book is long, the story is engaging, and readers won't lose interest. The story flows smoothly and is easy to follow. Additionally, the use of dialogue and a conversational tone makes the story lively, engaging, and more entertaining.

Furthermore, the author includes a pronunciation guide and a map at the beginning of the book, which are very helpful for readers. Most will find the main characters—who are all women—Neith, Calithea, and Nara—likable. Their backgrounds and love stories, as the story develops, become quite interesting. The book is well-written, professionally edited, and contains no grammatical errors. Fans of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction will enjoy this book. 
1 review
September 23, 2025
A Promise of Power grabbed my attention right away. Rachel Enriquez builds a world that feels so real, I could picture every detail. The main characters, Neith, Calithea, and Nara, each have their own journeys, and I found myself caring about what happened to them. I enjoyed seeing how their stories came together as the threat of war grew and the Etherborn returned. The book is packed with suspense, mystery, and emotion. The quote, “For their misdeeds and transgressions, the Gods purged Etherborn from our world, declaring never again shall mankind wield,” really sets the mood for the whole story. I loved the strong themes woven throughout this book and was engrossed from start to finish. If you like fantasy with strong female leads, political drama, and a bit of romance, this book is a wonderful choice. I got completely lost in this world and can't wait to read what happens next. I highly recommend it.
125 reviews6 followers
December 14, 2025
Rachel Enriquez presents the atrocities of war in vivid detail in this book full of ancient kingdoms, warlords, and magic. Aside from the incredible characterizations and plot of the novel, A Promise of Power stands out for its vividness. Enriquez spares no sensory details, delivering a book thats mesmerizing at its best moments. She also does not spare the gory details of war, and the opening chapter is the best testament to that.

A Promise of Power is a fantasy novel that hooks. Rachel developed three female protagonists, and threw them into a world of violence that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Profile Image for Scovia.
119 reviews12 followers
December 4, 2025
This book really keeps you on your toes; the story is very interesting. There's a lot of action, and this makes it so thrilling, like Neith was being raised by the very people who killed her mother. She grew up in a soldier's kind of life, and all the scenarios she found herself in were quite interesting.These are the kind of books you've been reading, and the way the author describes the scenes is so visual it makes your imagination so active.It's a good book to read while on holiday or while you have time because once you're drawn in, that's it, you're hooked.
Profile Image for Andrea (Isa).
35 reviews
December 9, 2025
a promise of power shook me!!!

What grabbed me first in this novel were the three protagonists—Neith, Calithea, and Nara—each pulling me in completely different directions. These female characters are each unique and complex which made for such a compelling story.

Despite the massive cast of characters, I never felt lost. Each person felt distinct, fully realized, like they'd walk right off the page which was a nice touch!

This is fantasy that remembers it's fundamentally about people—their connections, their compromises & their costs of power. If you loved the character-driven complexity of A Game of Thrones, you’ve enjoy this series!!
1 review
March 3, 2026
I am truly amazed with the authors creativity and organization in creating this entire world! The description of the world and different regions the characters are in is fully developed. The character creation and development is fantastic. The characters are so intertwined but it comes at a pace that is slowly learned. Once all the pieces start to connect, you are fully involved in the story. Everything is described so well that you feel that you can see, feel and breathe what is being written. I can’t wait for the next book!
1 review
September 21, 2025
I was fortunate enough to read a preview of this book.

I didn’t just read, A Promise of Power, I inhaled, devoured every delectable word of prose. Living through these three strong protagonist and following their journey was entirely consuming. The characters and storyline had me so engrossed that I absorbed it into my own reality. Wondering and worrying about them like they were dear friends of mine. The cadence of the authors written word is wordsmithing at its finest. Dare I say magical, ethereal, fluid in its mastery of the art of writing.
Profile Image for Akhil.
75 reviews1 follower
December 8, 2025
This author has put a lot of care and thought into her novel, and it shows. I appreciated that. And I liked how the character’s stories intertwined. The writing style is also creative.
However, this book was extremely long, and not in a good way. It should have been split into three books. It took a long time to read and I kept losing interest and I didn’t like this kind of non-traditional romance. It’s unexpected for this genre.
Profile Image for Allie Thurman.
3 reviews
January 26, 2026
I LOVEDDD this book and I normally hate fantasy/world building books because I lose interest too quickly. This book though was so intriguing!! The 3 POVs kept me hooked and I loved getting so engrossed with each character and their development. For reference - I did read this in an entire sitting because I NEEDED to know what would happen next. I haven’t read anything like this before and I am so excited that there’s already another in the works.
1 review1 follower
August 15, 2025
I was fortunate enough to read an advanced copy of this book and I have never read 600+ pages faster!! Admittedly, not a huge fan of the supernatural type-but the writing created vivid images in my mind and the plot wrapped me into a world that somehow felt relatable. There were days where I quite literally, could not put the book down! 5 stars! Can't wait to read more by Rachel Enriquez!
1 review
January 17, 2026
The author did such an amazing job at world and character building in this book. Not to mention how well the story flowed and the unique writing style. I could gush all day about it! The three lady protagonists have you invested in their story lines right from the beginning. I cannot wait to see where the story takes them! This is an excellent read!
1 review
November 8, 2025
I absolutely enjoyed this book! The story drew me in from the very beginning, and I couldn’t put it down. I was completely caught up in the plot and the characters, and it left me wanting more. Such a great read!
1 review
November 30, 2025
This was a great book! About half way through I noticed I was reading every chance I could. The three view points are excellently written, with surprises and plot twists consistent with the world and plot. An exciting and enjoyable read. I can’t wait for the next one! Read it!!
Profile Image for Sally.
323 reviews76 followers
March 19, 2026
This book absolutely exceeded my expectations, epic fantasy romance done so well! 👏🏼 I can definitely see how it can be compared to priory of the orange tree and since I love that book of course I was going to love this one too!

We follow 3 POVs and each character is a badass FMC. They’re powerful, determined, and don’t need a man 😌 however…. There is still a subplot of romance but it’s not the forefront of the book and it was done so well!

This book was the perfect set up for the start of the series I am locked in and ready for book two! 🔒
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews