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Son of the Borderlands
In a realm carved by the clash of gods and men, Agni Kazirian defied both to become the empire’s greatest warrior. But no one knows what guides him, the wisdom of an ancient shade that leads him to both genius and savagery. As dark forces awaken, Agni must decide which to follow—one threatens death, the other, something worse. Will he rise as the savior of his people, or the architect of their ruin?
- GenresFantasy
462 pages
Published September 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 23, 2025
spellbinding!
Agni lives up to his alternate designation by being a “living flame” carrying forth will, tradition and bravery as he conquers all adversaries in this world-building masterpiece!
Agni lives up to his alternate designation by being a “living flame” carrying forth will, tradition and bravery as he conquers all adversaries in this world-building masterpiece!
September 4, 2025
Son of the Borderlands by Joseph Sterk
⭐️ 4/5
This book asks a powerful question: what if the hero you trusted became the monster you feared? And that’s exactly the tension running through every page. The worldbuilding is lush and layered—an empire on the edge, gods that never truly sleep, and legacies written in blood. It definitely has that sweeping epic fantasy feeling, with politics, loyalties, and betrayals all woven together.
Agni fascinated me most. He’s the kind of character you don’t know if you should admire or dread. A commander, a hero, but also someone unraveling with power that feels as much curse as gift. The madness in his blood, the whispers of an ancient spirit—those parts gripped me. But at the same time, his instability makes him terrifying, and you never know which way he’ll turn. That kept me hooked.
Sara’s side brought a different balance. Court intrigue, impossible choices, her role as both pawn and player—it added another layer to the story. Sometimes I wanted more of her voice, because she carried some of the most human stakes in the middle of all the myth and war.
I won’t lie, at times the pacing dragged a little. The book is dense, and there are moments where the tension slackened because of all the politics and side plots. But when it hit its stride? It was everything I want from epic fantasy: dramatic, dark, and filled with questions that don’t have easy answers.
Final thought: If you enjoy morally gray heroes, courtly games, and fantasy that mixes prophecy with peril, this is one to pick up. Just be ready—it’s not light reading, but it’s worth the investment.
⭐️ 4/5
This book asks a powerful question: what if the hero you trusted became the monster you feared? And that’s exactly the tension running through every page. The worldbuilding is lush and layered—an empire on the edge, gods that never truly sleep, and legacies written in blood. It definitely has that sweeping epic fantasy feeling, with politics, loyalties, and betrayals all woven together.
Agni fascinated me most. He’s the kind of character you don’t know if you should admire or dread. A commander, a hero, but also someone unraveling with power that feels as much curse as gift. The madness in his blood, the whispers of an ancient spirit—those parts gripped me. But at the same time, his instability makes him terrifying, and you never know which way he’ll turn. That kept me hooked.
Sara’s side brought a different balance. Court intrigue, impossible choices, her role as both pawn and player—it added another layer to the story. Sometimes I wanted more of her voice, because she carried some of the most human stakes in the middle of all the myth and war.
I won’t lie, at times the pacing dragged a little. The book is dense, and there are moments where the tension slackened because of all the politics and side plots. But when it hit its stride? It was everything I want from epic fantasy: dramatic, dark, and filled with questions that don’t have easy answers.
Final thought: If you enjoy morally gray heroes, courtly games, and fantasy that mixes prophecy with peril, this is one to pick up. Just be ready—it’s not light reading, but it’s worth the investment.
September 21, 2025
What happens if your hero were to become your monster?
Solantia is a troubled empire, the old gods are stirring and ancient powers are awakening in bloodlines that had long been thought dormant. Sons of the Borderlands is a sweeping new adult fantasy of fire and fate, where loyalty is going to be tested by ambition, and love is going to have to survive the madness of war.
Agni Kazirian is Lord Guardian is returning from conquest as a celebrated hero, feared, and quickly it's realized that he's also dangerously unstable. He manages to maintain his commander's poise but underneath that lies a much darker force that coils through his veins, one that is tied to the lost myths of a ruined city and this ancient spirit that speaks in madness and blood.
Solantia is a realm carved by the clash of gods and men, Agni Kazirian has defied both to become the empire's greatest warrior. But, no one knows what has truly guided him, the wisdom of this ancient shade that leads him to both genius and savagery.
Now dark forces are awakening, and Agni has to decide which force he is going to follow – one that threatens death, or the other that threatens something much worse. As Agni Kazirian's power starts to grow, the question becomes: is Agni Solantia's greatest protector, or is he actually Solantia's greatest threat?
Duchess Sara Ristana, is Agni Kazirian's betrothed. She suddenly finds herself thrust into this brutal game of masks and daggers. Somehow she's been promised to unite East and West, now she has to decide where her loyalty truly lies: with the man that she truly once admired or the father whose ambitions may truly consume them both in flame and fire. Sara's voice now may be the realm's last true hope for peace, or it could be the spark that may ignite the realm's very undoing.
This realm is rich in courtly intrigue, dragon-blooded legacies, and a mythic power. Son of the Borderlands is the perfect book for fans of immersive epic fantasy, slow-burning tension, and that fine line between prophecy and peril.
The Borderlands will truly remember what the entire empire has forgotten. And now everyone questions if Agni will rise as the saviour of his people, or will he be the architect of their ruin?
Tropes: Dark, Epic Fantasy, Character Driven, Psychological Fantasy, Flawed Protagonists.
Son of the Borderlands is the 1st book in the Rise of the Dragonlands series by Joseph Sterk. This is in fact Joseph Sterk's debut novel. And for a debut novel, I have to say that I am very impressed.
Joseph Sterk's Son of the Borderland is a rich, impressive, and stunningly immersive dark fantasy that proves Joseph has the gift to tell impressive stories that are full and engrossing. From the very beginning, this book will capture your attention, and pull you into this mysterious but very dangerous world. The introduction that we are given is strong and it sets this book up perfectly, I am going to say that Joseph has an amazing descriptive writing style that is just stunning and remarkable. Each and every scene that he writes feels like he's painted the perfect picture for you, and it makes the world come alive in front of your eyes, it's like you can see, feel, taste, touch, and breath the very world that Joseph is building right in front of our eyes.
Each character that Joseph creates is created with a focus on every little detail ensuring that each character is going to be memorable in their own right. Even when that character isn't the easiest to connect with, there is always something about them that makes them stand out on a personal level and leaves a lasting impression on you. The characters each feel like they are authentic, real to the nitty-gritty, shadowed setting that Joseph has created in this world. And the plot that Joseph has developed is really well thought out with all the twists and turns that keep you turning the page wanting to know what's going to happen next in this world that feels so real and fully developed and carefully planned out.
One of the things that really stood out to me about this book and Joseph's writing is his ability to create and build atmosphere. And the pacing of this book will allow all the readers of this book to truly sink into this book, discover all the details of the setting, and discover all the different layers of intrigue as the story itself unfolds. I fell in love with Joseph's writing style in both his skill and the intention of his writing, and this brought together a beautiful rich narrative that will see fans of dark fantasy absolutely appreciating.
In the end, I found Son of Borderlands is a rich and enthralling read with a stunningly immersive world, it has a strong descriptive exposition, and I loved the storyline along with the plot and sub-plot. This is the kind of book that is going to leave readers feeling rewarded by being transported into a new world that's been carefully created full of danger, mystery, and imagination.
If you are a fan of dark fantasy, danger, mystery, imagination, and a rich well well-crafted world then this is the book you've been looking for and I have to say that you will not be disappointed. I can't recommend this Adult Fantasy enough. It's a great read.
Joseph Sterk may be debuting his first novel but I can't wait to see what he writes after he is done with this series and I will be following his career with interest to see what he does with it.
Solantia is a troubled empire, the old gods are stirring and ancient powers are awakening in bloodlines that had long been thought dormant. Sons of the Borderlands is a sweeping new adult fantasy of fire and fate, where loyalty is going to be tested by ambition, and love is going to have to survive the madness of war.
Agni Kazirian is Lord Guardian is returning from conquest as a celebrated hero, feared, and quickly it's realized that he's also dangerously unstable. He manages to maintain his commander's poise but underneath that lies a much darker force that coils through his veins, one that is tied to the lost myths of a ruined city and this ancient spirit that speaks in madness and blood.
Solantia is a realm carved by the clash of gods and men, Agni Kazirian has defied both to become the empire's greatest warrior. But, no one knows what has truly guided him, the wisdom of this ancient shade that leads him to both genius and savagery.
Now dark forces are awakening, and Agni has to decide which force he is going to follow – one that threatens death, or the other that threatens something much worse. As Agni Kazirian's power starts to grow, the question becomes: is Agni Solantia's greatest protector, or is he actually Solantia's greatest threat?
Duchess Sara Ristana, is Agni Kazirian's betrothed. She suddenly finds herself thrust into this brutal game of masks and daggers. Somehow she's been promised to unite East and West, now she has to decide where her loyalty truly lies: with the man that she truly once admired or the father whose ambitions may truly consume them both in flame and fire. Sara's voice now may be the realm's last true hope for peace, or it could be the spark that may ignite the realm's very undoing.
This realm is rich in courtly intrigue, dragon-blooded legacies, and a mythic power. Son of the Borderlands is the perfect book for fans of immersive epic fantasy, slow-burning tension, and that fine line between prophecy and peril.
The Borderlands will truly remember what the entire empire has forgotten. And now everyone questions if Agni will rise as the saviour of his people, or will he be the architect of their ruin?
Tropes: Dark, Epic Fantasy, Character Driven, Psychological Fantasy, Flawed Protagonists.
Son of the Borderlands is the 1st book in the Rise of the Dragonlands series by Joseph Sterk. This is in fact Joseph Sterk's debut novel. And for a debut novel, I have to say that I am very impressed.
Joseph Sterk's Son of the Borderland is a rich, impressive, and stunningly immersive dark fantasy that proves Joseph has the gift to tell impressive stories that are full and engrossing. From the very beginning, this book will capture your attention, and pull you into this mysterious but very dangerous world. The introduction that we are given is strong and it sets this book up perfectly, I am going to say that Joseph has an amazing descriptive writing style that is just stunning and remarkable. Each and every scene that he writes feels like he's painted the perfect picture for you, and it makes the world come alive in front of your eyes, it's like you can see, feel, taste, touch, and breath the very world that Joseph is building right in front of our eyes.
Each character that Joseph creates is created with a focus on every little detail ensuring that each character is going to be memorable in their own right. Even when that character isn't the easiest to connect with, there is always something about them that makes them stand out on a personal level and leaves a lasting impression on you. The characters each feel like they are authentic, real to the nitty-gritty, shadowed setting that Joseph has created in this world. And the plot that Joseph has developed is really well thought out with all the twists and turns that keep you turning the page wanting to know what's going to happen next in this world that feels so real and fully developed and carefully planned out.
One of the things that really stood out to me about this book and Joseph's writing is his ability to create and build atmosphere. And the pacing of this book will allow all the readers of this book to truly sink into this book, discover all the details of the setting, and discover all the different layers of intrigue as the story itself unfolds. I fell in love with Joseph's writing style in both his skill and the intention of his writing, and this brought together a beautiful rich narrative that will see fans of dark fantasy absolutely appreciating.
In the end, I found Son of Borderlands is a rich and enthralling read with a stunningly immersive world, it has a strong descriptive exposition, and I loved the storyline along with the plot and sub-plot. This is the kind of book that is going to leave readers feeling rewarded by being transported into a new world that's been carefully created full of danger, mystery, and imagination.
If you are a fan of dark fantasy, danger, mystery, imagination, and a rich well well-crafted world then this is the book you've been looking for and I have to say that you will not be disappointed. I can't recommend this Adult Fantasy enough. It's a great read.
Joseph Sterk may be debuting his first novel but I can't wait to see what he writes after he is done with this series and I will be following his career with interest to see what he does with it.
August 17, 2025
3.5/5
This book was sent to me by the author for review and has not impacted the review in any way. The opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
My thoughts on this book are mixed. To start, Son of the Borderlands, has a really good introduction that makes you really curious and draws you in as a reader. Great opening chapter. Joseph Sterk also knows how to utilize descriptive writing. He paints an amazing picture in the reader's mind. On that same note, it carries forward into the characters. They are vivid and well thought out. My main issue is that the main character is not someone who is likeable, so I felt a disconnect with him. Going through the entire book, I only liked a couple of characters, none of them were main characters.
Son of the Borderlands, did have a good overall plot and an interesting twist. What it was lacking though was a true climatic moment, which in turn made the conclusion only okay in my books, pun intended. It also got kind of slow in many parts, which is where my attention faded. I was looking for that part that was going to make me say wow. A redeeming quality is that as far as created worlds go, this is a well thought out and carefully planned world. Goes back to the descriptive writing comment, painting that picture for the reader. A little personal peeve from the days of notes from my creative writing teacher, is using the same words to start sentences. Writers must find creative ways to start sentences. Over use of names, he, she, they, the, and these kinds of words makes it feel too repetitive.
Overall, Son of the Borderlands, was a decent read for those who enjoy dark fantasy and carefully crafter worlds.
This book was sent to me by the author for review and has not impacted the review in any way. The opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
My thoughts on this book are mixed. To start, Son of the Borderlands, has a really good introduction that makes you really curious and draws you in as a reader. Great opening chapter. Joseph Sterk also knows how to utilize descriptive writing. He paints an amazing picture in the reader's mind. On that same note, it carries forward into the characters. They are vivid and well thought out. My main issue is that the main character is not someone who is likeable, so I felt a disconnect with him. Going through the entire book, I only liked a couple of characters, none of them were main characters.
Son of the Borderlands, did have a good overall plot and an interesting twist. What it was lacking though was a true climatic moment, which in turn made the conclusion only okay in my books, pun intended. It also got kind of slow in many parts, which is where my attention faded. I was looking for that part that was going to make me say wow. A redeeming quality is that as far as created worlds go, this is a well thought out and carefully planned world. Goes back to the descriptive writing comment, painting that picture for the reader. A little personal peeve from the days of notes from my creative writing teacher, is using the same words to start sentences. Writers must find creative ways to start sentences. Over use of names, he, she, they, the, and these kinds of words makes it feel too repetitive.
Overall, Son of the Borderlands, was a decent read for those who enjoy dark fantasy and carefully crafter worlds.
January 22, 2026
Son of the Borderlands is a dark, character driven epic fantasy that examines the fragile boundary between heroism and monstrosity. Set in a realm shaped by the lingering clash of gods and men, the novel centers on Agni Kazirian an unmatched warrior whose rise to glory is guided by an ancient shade offering both brilliance and brutality in equal measure.
What distinguishes the novel is its psychological depth. Agni’s strength is never portrayed as uncomplicated virtue; instead, it is bound to a voice that grants insight while eroding restraint. The tension between genius and savagery propels the narrative forward, forcing readers to question whether Agni’s victories are acts of salvation or the early signs of catastrophe.
The worldbuilding supports this moral ambiguity with restraint and confidence. Rather than overwhelming the reader with lore, the novel allows its mythology to surface organically through consequence dark forces awaken, old powers reassert themselves, and every choice pushes the realm closer to reckoning. The stakes are not merely political or military, but existential.
At its core, Son of the Borderlands is a meditation on power and agency. Agni is repeatedly confronted with paths that promise survival, dominance, or something far more corrosive. The question is not whether he will change the fate of his people, but what kind of legacy that change will leave behind.
For readers drawn to epic fantasy that privileges moral complexity, slow building dread, and psychologically rich protagonists, Son of the Borderlands offers a compelling and unsettling journey one where salvation and ruin are separated by a single decision.
What distinguishes the novel is its psychological depth. Agni’s strength is never portrayed as uncomplicated virtue; instead, it is bound to a voice that grants insight while eroding restraint. The tension between genius and savagery propels the narrative forward, forcing readers to question whether Agni’s victories are acts of salvation or the early signs of catastrophe.
The worldbuilding supports this moral ambiguity with restraint and confidence. Rather than overwhelming the reader with lore, the novel allows its mythology to surface organically through consequence dark forces awaken, old powers reassert themselves, and every choice pushes the realm closer to reckoning. The stakes are not merely political or military, but existential.
At its core, Son of the Borderlands is a meditation on power and agency. Agni is repeatedly confronted with paths that promise survival, dominance, or something far more corrosive. The question is not whether he will change the fate of his people, but what kind of legacy that change will leave behind.
For readers drawn to epic fantasy that privileges moral complexity, slow building dread, and psychologically rich protagonists, Son of the Borderlands offers a compelling and unsettling journey one where salvation and ruin are separated by a single decision.
September 19, 2025
'Son of the Borderlands' is the first book in an epic fantasy series and follows two main characters on their quests for power, love and station.
I really wanted to love this book, and the premise - a warrior and leader influenced by his revenge-seeking ancestor - sounded very promising. However, the book unfortunately didn't deliver on its promise.
There were a few things that rubbed me the wong way. For example, there is so much info dumping in the prologue that I spent the whole book catching up. The dialogues were often strange and too long (especially when Agni was talking to Anton), the motivation and the feelings of the characters were never really clear (e.g. in one sentence Sarah says she loves Agni and in literally the next sentence she plans to poison him), and I was missing some descriptions as to how everything looked liked and in particular how I should imagine the wings of some of the people. Then, the story jumped around too much, so that it often leaves the reader confused. And finally, I was waiting for the epic battle in the end that... just didn't happen?!
So, unfortunately, this book wasn't for me but I hope it finds its readership!
Thank you to the author, Starwolf Press LLC and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really wanted to love this book, and the premise - a warrior and leader influenced by his revenge-seeking ancestor - sounded very promising. However, the book unfortunately didn't deliver on its promise.
There were a few things that rubbed me the wong way. For example, there is so much info dumping in the prologue that I spent the whole book catching up. The dialogues were often strange and too long (especially when Agni was talking to Anton), the motivation and the feelings of the characters were never really clear (e.g. in one sentence Sarah says she loves Agni and in literally the next sentence she plans to poison him), and I was missing some descriptions as to how everything looked liked and in particular how I should imagine the wings of some of the people. Then, the story jumped around too much, so that it often leaves the reader confused. And finally, I was waiting for the epic battle in the end that... just didn't happen?!
So, unfortunately, this book wasn't for me but I hope it finds its readership!
Thank you to the author, Starwolf Press LLC and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 16, 2025
Son of the Borderlands is a vivid and emotionally rooted fantasy that feels both expansive and intimate. What makes it stand out is its attention to character motivation. The struggles, loyalties, and inner conflicts of the cast give the story a genuine sense of humanity. Joseph Sterk builds a world that feels lived in with its own scars, rhythms, and tensions, yet the narrative never loses sight of personal stakes.
I especially appreciated how the story balances action and quiet reflection. Moments that explore identity, belonging, and responsibility give the fast paced scenes more weight. The writing is clear, grounded, and purposeful, and the world building reveals itself naturally through the characters’ experiences.
For readers who enjoy fantasy that carries emotional depth and thoughtful character arcs, this book is a rewarding journey. It is the kind of story that stays with you because of the people at its center as much as the dangers they face.
I especially appreciated how the story balances action and quiet reflection. Moments that explore identity, belonging, and responsibility give the fast paced scenes more weight. The writing is clear, grounded, and purposeful, and the world building reveals itself naturally through the characters’ experiences.
For readers who enjoy fantasy that carries emotional depth and thoughtful character arcs, this book is a rewarding journey. It is the kind of story that stays with you because of the people at its center as much as the dangers they face.
February 9, 2026
I have read hundreds of fantasy novels, from the classics by Jordan, Le Guin, and Eddings, to more modern masters like Sanderson, Martin, and Williams. It is too early to suggest Joseph Sterk would be among these, however his first entry into the genre is a strong start. From building a world that is new and fascinating to characters we care about, his approach is absolutely in tune with what works in epic fantasy. Son of the Borderlands is a book that literally spans ages with strong character arcs, struggles that resonate with each of us even in the modern day, and fierce action that does not let up. Although he is a newcomer to the genre, this debut novel displays a talent and approach that left me excited for the next entry in the Borderlands series. I also can’t wait to see how the story of Agni, Kali, Sara, and yes, even Anton unfolds and how the fate of the Dragonlands will be changed forever by these compelling characters, their motivations, and their struggles.
February 10, 2026
This one grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go. Sterk wastes no time establishing Agni as a warrior unlike any other not because he's simply the strongest, but because of what guides him. The ancient shade whispering wisdom and savagery simultaneously makes for one of the most compelling character dynamics I've read in fantasy recently.
The moral tension is what really elevates this above typical epic fantasy. Agni isn't choosing between good and evil he's choosing between death and something potentially worse. That ambiguity kept me reading late into the night.
The worldbuilding feels rich without being overwhelming. The clash between gods and men is woven naturally into the narrative rather than dumped in exposition.
My only wish? I wanted more pages. The story moves fast almost too fast.
If you love morally complex warriors, ancient mythology, and high stakes fantasy, Son of the Borderlands absolutely delivers. Highly recommended.
The moral tension is what really elevates this above typical epic fantasy. Agni isn't choosing between good and evil he's choosing between death and something potentially worse. That ambiguity kept me reading late into the night.
The worldbuilding feels rich without being overwhelming. The clash between gods and men is woven naturally into the narrative rather than dumped in exposition.
My only wish? I wanted more pages. The story moves fast almost too fast.
If you love morally complex warriors, ancient mythology, and high stakes fantasy, Son of the Borderlands absolutely delivers. Highly recommended.
January 7, 2026
Son of the Borderlands is an epic fantasy that thrives on moral complexity and emotional weight. Agni Kazirian is not simply forged by battle but shaped by an ancient guiding presence that challenges the very nature of power and destiny. Joseph Sterk creates a vivid world where gods and mortals collide, yet the most compelling conflict is internal. The tension between wisdom and savagery gives the story a haunting depth, making every triumph feel earned and every choice consequential. Rich world-building, a formidable protagonist, and an ever-present sense of looming consequence make this novel a gripping and thoughtful journey. This is epic fantasy that values introspection as much as action, leaving a lasting impression well beyond the final chapter.
September 23, 2025
Son of the Borderlands is a deep dive into epic fantasy, there are dragons, ancient prophecy, and political intrigue. The worldbuilding is detailed and atmospheric. Agni, the main character, is torn between destiny and his own desires, making him both powerful and conflicted. It’s the kind of story that pulls you into a sprawling saga and leaves you wanting more.
That said, it’s not a fast read. The pacing slows at times with heavy backstory and political detail, and the large cast can be tricky. But if you enjoy layered worldbuilding and like your fantasy to take its time, this is a strong start to a series that promises even bigger things ahead.
That said, it’s not a fast read. The pacing slows at times with heavy backstory and political detail, and the large cast can be tricky. But if you enjoy layered worldbuilding and like your fantasy to take its time, this is a strong start to a series that promises even bigger things ahead.
December 27, 2025
Son of the Borderlands
By Joseph Sterk
This book is very politics heavy. Political intrigue in fantasy books tends to bore me to tears. If I were to remove this fact I would give this book 4.5 stars. The writing is very good and the character development is great. I couldn't get past all the politics and that made me not care about any of it.
I'm interested to see what Joseph Sterk writes next because as I said, I really like the writing style.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.
By Joseph Sterk
This book is very politics heavy. Political intrigue in fantasy books tends to bore me to tears. If I were to remove this fact I would give this book 4.5 stars. The writing is very good and the character development is great. I couldn't get past all the politics and that made me not care about any of it.
I'm interested to see what Joseph Sterk writes next because as I said, I really like the writing style.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.
October 15, 2025
Joseph Sterk has potential, I think, but doesn't achieve it with Son of Borderlands. Some of his characters were entertaining and somewhat interesting but in the whole book the only one had empathy or any kind of attachment to was Dona.
January 16, 2026
Son of the Borderlands is a powerful, slow-burning epic where heroism and monstrosity walk a dangerously thin line. Rich with political intrigue, ancient bloodlines, and emotional tension, it delivers a haunting story of power, loyalty, and inevitable transformation.
December 25, 2025
Fantastic book!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews