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The Fates of Aten #3
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword
Her breaking is only the beginning.
Alira Verbrandt thought uniting the Fates would give her strength. Instead, it casts her into the frozen wastes of Clerracia, hunted by an enemy long thought forgotten. In the ruins of a desolate city, she discovers a serpent hidden among her closest allies. Watching, waiting, and ready to strike.
Broken and betrayed, Alira awakens on the shores of Evenglacia, a land of fabled antiquity, and dark secrets. Survival demands allegiance, but the sparing of her life binds her to a war she can't control.
The Shattered Sword has risen, their rebellion burning with a fire of vengeance; and to stop them, Alira must stand with Evenglacia’s army of legend. But in the shadows of its ancient heart lies a truth–the rebels may be the ones who hold the key to defeating her greatest enemy.
Every choice carries a price, and if she chooses wrong there may not be a world left to save.
Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson's The Final Empire, George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones, and Sarah J. Maas' Throne of Glass. The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is a sweeping epic of betrayal, rebellion, and destiny.
Alira Verbrandt thought uniting the Fates would give her strength. Instead, it casts her into the frozen wastes of Clerracia, hunted by an enemy long thought forgotten. In the ruins of a desolate city, she discovers a serpent hidden among her closest allies. Watching, waiting, and ready to strike.
Broken and betrayed, Alira awakens on the shores of Evenglacia, a land of fabled antiquity, and dark secrets. Survival demands allegiance, but the sparing of her life binds her to a war she can't control.
The Shattered Sword has risen, their rebellion burning with a fire of vengeance; and to stop them, Alira must stand with Evenglacia’s army of legend. But in the shadows of its ancient heart lies a truth–the rebels may be the ones who hold the key to defeating her greatest enemy.
Every choice carries a price, and if she chooses wrong there may not be a world left to save.
Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson's The Final Empire, George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones, and Sarah J. Maas' Throne of Glass. The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is a sweeping epic of betrayal, rebellion, and destiny.
476 pages, ebook
First published November 26, 2025
About the author
N.A. Betts
7 books54 followersN.A. (Nick) Betts is a Canadian author of fantasy and horror, with a love for timeless storytelling. A veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, his fantasy focuses on telling stories of good versus evil; drawing inspiration from Tolkien and other classic works of the genre. For horror, he has a love of cosmic stories centered on psychological dread. Through these mediums, he explores themes of physical perseverance and mental resilience.
When he's not busy creating new worlds or nightmares, Nick can be found watching the same movies he’s seen a thousand times, diving into stories of the unexplained, or relaxing with some good jazz. He lives just outside Edmonton, Alberta, with his wife, Kathleen, and their cats: Bandit, Carter, and Addley
When he's not busy creating new worlds or nightmares, Nick can be found watching the same movies he’s seen a thousand times, diving into stories of the unexplained, or relaxing with some good jazz. He lives just outside Edmonton, Alberta, with his wife, Kathleen, and their cats: Bandit, Carter, and Addley
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 30, 2025
*ARC TEAM REVIEW*
Okay, so, I liked Book 1, but I felt like the author played it safe. I LOVED Book Two, and the steps forward in the author's writing were lightyears beyond his debut.
Book III...well, the reins have come off.
It's difficult to image a series that gets better and better with each book. Normally, the beginning is powerful and the follow-ups just seem not to shine as bright. The Fates of Aten is the exact opposite. The introduction is very basic, and simple. It's like dipping your toes in a pool. But what the author had accomplished in Book Two, has grown leaps and bounds.
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is a tour de force. This is the book, at I believe, that says N.A. Betts has arrived!
- - - - - - - - - -
The Review:
Stars: 5/5
Spice: n/a
We pick up immediately after book two. Well, a few days after, really. We're back with Alira and company as they search out Clerracia. What begins at a torrid pace never really lets up, as we're reintroduced to old enemies, and acquainted with new friends. The pages between the cover bring us though northern Idel, and across the ocean to the mysterious, and enigmatic, Evenglacia. Between the Receiver, the Godbreaker, and those who wait in the shadows, this book blows the series wide open (while wrapping up some plot lines from the first half of the series).
This chapter in the series is full to the brim with destruction, betrayal, devastation, and moments of the worst heartbreak, and triumphant redemption. Everything weaves together so naturally, and running plotlines mesh seamlessly with new ones.
The characters are well flushed out, and contrast one another so well. From internal struggles between Fate and Goddess, to another with Subject and Shadow, this book has everything. There's even the continuation of the romantic arc. Though it's an underlying/supporting element, it's not in your face all the time. And, true to the author's style of fantasy, there's no spice.
Above all, what I appreciate most, is how flushed out our main characters are. So much care is built around each of them, and they're all made to feel unique. From Teora's sass, to Flynn's presence, and even (at least in this story) Emile's naievity, each works together to bring so much colour to the broad cast of characters.
I've always been a big reader, though I haven't been in the review scene, as I simply prefer to jump from book to book. But, as I promised the author (who's also an old co-worker of mine) from my first ARC sign up, I'll always leave one for any book he gives me.
THE SERPENT AND THE SHATTERED SWORD is easily a 5/5 for me, and I don't hesitate to say that. There were, again, some things with the debut that knocked it down ever so slightly. Giving Book Two a 5/5 was easy, but this...there's no debating Betts has found his stride.
I said in the beginning this was a tour de force for classic fantasy, and I meant it. This author will be a name to watch the more he keeps writing! It's hard to wait almost half a year or more for Book 4, but it'll be worth it!
Okay, so, I liked Book 1, but I felt like the author played it safe. I LOVED Book Two, and the steps forward in the author's writing were lightyears beyond his debut.
Book III...well, the reins have come off.
It's difficult to image a series that gets better and better with each book. Normally, the beginning is powerful and the follow-ups just seem not to shine as bright. The Fates of Aten is the exact opposite. The introduction is very basic, and simple. It's like dipping your toes in a pool. But what the author had accomplished in Book Two, has grown leaps and bounds.
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is a tour de force. This is the book, at I believe, that says N.A. Betts has arrived!
- - - - - - - - - -
The Review:
Stars: 5/5
Spice: n/a
We pick up immediately after book two. Well, a few days after, really. We're back with Alira and company as they search out Clerracia. What begins at a torrid pace never really lets up, as we're reintroduced to old enemies, and acquainted with new friends. The pages between the cover bring us though northern Idel, and across the ocean to the mysterious, and enigmatic, Evenglacia. Between the Receiver, the Godbreaker, and those who wait in the shadows, this book blows the series wide open (while wrapping up some plot lines from the first half of the series).
This chapter in the series is full to the brim with destruction, betrayal, devastation, and moments of the worst heartbreak, and triumphant redemption. Everything weaves together so naturally, and running plotlines mesh seamlessly with new ones.
The characters are well flushed out, and contrast one another so well. From internal struggles between Fate and Goddess, to another with Subject and Shadow, this book has everything. There's even the continuation of the romantic arc. Though it's an underlying/supporting element, it's not in your face all the time. And, true to the author's style of fantasy, there's no spice.
Above all, what I appreciate most, is how flushed out our main characters are. So much care is built around each of them, and they're all made to feel unique. From Teora's sass, to Flynn's presence, and even (at least in this story) Emile's naievity, each works together to bring so much colour to the broad cast of characters.
I've always been a big reader, though I haven't been in the review scene, as I simply prefer to jump from book to book. But, as I promised the author (who's also an old co-worker of mine) from my first ARC sign up, I'll always leave one for any book he gives me.
THE SERPENT AND THE SHATTERED SWORD is easily a 5/5 for me, and I don't hesitate to say that. There were, again, some things with the debut that knocked it down ever so slightly. Giving Book Two a 5/5 was easy, but this...there's no debating Betts has found his stride.
I said in the beginning this was a tour de force for classic fantasy, and I meant it. This author will be a name to watch the more he keeps writing! It's hard to wait almost half a year or more for Book 4, but it'll be worth it!
November 12, 2025
Nick Betts knocks it out of the park with the third installment in the Fates of Aten series. With plot twists so hard they'll leave your head spinning, and characters revealing their truest intentions, this book delivers fast-paced action from one page to the next.
I laughed. I cried. I screamed internally. And just felt all of the things this book makes you feel with its immersive writing and character development.
This series has become an addiction!
By book three, the emotion behind FMC Alira is powerful and raw, and really humanizes her. We see her struggle with worry. Heart ache. Even questioning her own choices, repeatedly — all while facing some of her biggest challenges to date. And yet, she still brings that bad ass energy into every battle she fights. She's become a force to be reckoned with, but also admired.
Her character growth is beautifully written and integrated into the story, along with the same attention to detail for the side characters.
I feel like everyone really comes into their self by book three!
Honestly guys, this is a series that started off really well, with each new book being better than the last!! I don't know how he does it, but I truly applaud N.A. Betts for this wonderful story!!
I laughed. I cried. I screamed internally. And just felt all of the things this book makes you feel with its immersive writing and character development.
This series has become an addiction!
By book three, the emotion behind FMC Alira is powerful and raw, and really humanizes her. We see her struggle with worry. Heart ache. Even questioning her own choices, repeatedly — all while facing some of her biggest challenges to date. And yet, she still brings that bad ass energy into every battle she fights. She's become a force to be reckoned with, but also admired.
Her character growth is beautifully written and integrated into the story, along with the same attention to detail for the side characters.
I feel like everyone really comes into their self by book three!
Honestly guys, this is a series that started off really well, with each new book being better than the last!! I don't know how he does it, but I truly applaud N.A. Betts for this wonderful story!!
May 19, 2026
What a journey!
We really dig deep into the lore of Clerracia & Evenglacia, two places mentioned in the previous books that were a mystery to all. I absolutely loved the world building in this one & like the other two books, the battle/fight scenes are 10/10.
The characters are really well written. Their emotions feel raw & real. Especially Alira, who often frustrates me but it’s because her choices feel painfully human. She reacts the way real people often do, and even when you understand why she’s making those decisions, you still desperately want her to do better.
The secrets uncovered & betrayals in this book are👌. The twist & turns keep will keep you invested until the end. Also, eyeball😳.
Another hit for me in this series! 5⭐️!
We really dig deep into the lore of Clerracia & Evenglacia, two places mentioned in the previous books that were a mystery to all. I absolutely loved the world building in this one & like the other two books, the battle/fight scenes are 10/10.
The characters are really well written. Their emotions feel raw & real. Especially Alira, who often frustrates me but it’s because her choices feel painfully human. She reacts the way real people often do, and even when you understand why she’s making those decisions, you still desperately want her to do better.
The secrets uncovered & betrayals in this book are👌. The twist & turns keep will keep you invested until the end. Also, eyeball😳.
Another hit for me in this series! 5⭐️!
October 27, 2025
I absolutely loved this book, so many twist and turns. Lots of emotions and heartbreak as well as action! Best book so far in the series but all of them have been awesome. Definitely one of my favorites fantasy series. I also really like that there is romance in the book but it’s not the whole plot! There is lots of action and a badass FMC.
November 25, 2025
I am very appreciative that I got to read The Serpent and the Shattered Sword as an eARC, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This series just keeps getting better.
So much character development and expansive world building.
Action packed, emotionally charged storytelling. Poetic, expressive writing.
Rinley is still my favourite character.
Bring on book 4.
“If there is anyone who could endure what this world has to throw at her, it’s Alira Verbrandt.”
Excerpt from:
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword
N.A. Betts
This series just keeps getting better.
So much character development and expansive world building.
Action packed, emotionally charged storytelling. Poetic, expressive writing.
Rinley is still my favourite character.
Bring on book 4.
“If there is anyone who could endure what this world has to throw at her, it’s Alira Verbrandt.”
Excerpt from:
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword
N.A. Betts
August 31, 2026
The fates battle more than just the enemy this book; their inner darkness within themselves that fuels doubt and distrust within the group. After finding out about multiple betrayals and other secrets, as well as unifying with the shadow to defeat a common enemy there shouldn’t be much more to do, right??
Well, as it turns out, the hard work is only starting…
Well, as it turns out, the hard work is only starting…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2025
The thrilling third installment to Nick Betts’ Fates of Aten series is finally here and it absolutely didn’t disappoint. Thank you so much for the ARC Nick, as well as for our lovely chats and for being an all-around fantastic person - May you get the praise and hype you deserve.
This man’s world-building blows me away. For someone releasing a debut series, the complexity of the world and settings is impressive to say the least. With a unique magic system, an extensive map and lots of characters, I should really write myself a cheat-sheet because I find it easy to get lost. However, I think this a testament to Betts’ creativity - He has clearly thought through every aspect of his writing. I love how the locations in this world are inspired by real events and real places. I love the variety of the characters and where they come from, but also how much pride they take in their homelands.I think the meddling gods being one with the Fates is such a unique take, and I love exploring the intricacies of the powerful Illuri as well as the Fates.
Betts’ writing is so detailed - I love the way he described the settings, the people and the languages throughout the book, which brings it all to life. The themes of war, loss and most notably in this one, torture, are explored even deeper than before. The eyeball scene in particular will stick with me forever - If you know, you know. I almost wish there was a bit more combat and a bit more magic in this one as it seems to be kept until the end of the book. I think the pace fell a little in the middle and some action could have really sped it up some more. The introduction of new creatures added an element of horror and upped the stakes, which I hope is something we get to see more of in books 4 & 5.
The last 3 chapters were incredibly tense and action-packed - I was on the edge of my seat finishing this one. Filled with twists, turns and betrayals, there’s something for everyone in this book (and the whole series really). My heart hurt for Zahra in this book, seeing a whole different perspective on her and falling more in love with her character. I found it especially interesting to learn more about Semera and the other Illuri and what makes them all tick. I also enjoyed exploring the perspectives of Teora, Emile and Flynn. The mixture of POVs kept things lively and tense thanks to some very clever cliffhangers.
I’ll be interested to see where the next book takes us. This book flips everything you think you know and leaves you reeling - I have no idea what to expect next, but I look forward to finding out!
This man’s world-building blows me away. For someone releasing a debut series, the complexity of the world and settings is impressive to say the least. With a unique magic system, an extensive map and lots of characters, I should really write myself a cheat-sheet because I find it easy to get lost. However, I think this a testament to Betts’ creativity - He has clearly thought through every aspect of his writing. I love how the locations in this world are inspired by real events and real places. I love the variety of the characters and where they come from, but also how much pride they take in their homelands.I think the meddling gods being one with the Fates is such a unique take, and I love exploring the intricacies of the powerful Illuri as well as the Fates.
Betts’ writing is so detailed - I love the way he described the settings, the people and the languages throughout the book, which brings it all to life. The themes of war, loss and most notably in this one, torture, are explored even deeper than before. The eyeball scene in particular will stick with me forever - If you know, you know. I almost wish there was a bit more combat and a bit more magic in this one as it seems to be kept until the end of the book. I think the pace fell a little in the middle and some action could have really sped it up some more. The introduction of new creatures added an element of horror and upped the stakes, which I hope is something we get to see more of in books 4 & 5.
The last 3 chapters were incredibly tense and action-packed - I was on the edge of my seat finishing this one. Filled with twists, turns and betrayals, there’s something for everyone in this book (and the whole series really). My heart hurt for Zahra in this book, seeing a whole different perspective on her and falling more in love with her character. I found it especially interesting to learn more about Semera and the other Illuri and what makes them all tick. I also enjoyed exploring the perspectives of Teora, Emile and Flynn. The mixture of POVs kept things lively and tense thanks to some very clever cliffhangers.
I’ll be interested to see where the next book takes us. This book flips everything you think you know and leaves you reeling - I have no idea what to expect next, but I look forward to finding out!
November 26, 2025
*ARC*
Another amazing book from N.A. Betts! I absolutely loved Books 1 and 2 but The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is even more amazing! I really loved how more indepth it gets with the characters. You really feel all the pain, suffering, and trauma these characters all face. This book is definitely not for the feint of heart, the suffering and inflicted physical pain of battle is brutal and gut wrenching.
I have to say, the way the author describes battle scenes are some of my favorites, you can just visualize the horror and bloodshed. Just so well written.
I think Alira has grown so much from even Book 2, but she still faces uncertainty and she draws conclusions before having all the facts which is so human and makes her so relatable. After the ending with Rinley in Book 2, I absolutely needed a reunion scene! But we got something even better, we got more Rinley. I absolutely loved Rinley in Book 2 and I really loved that she got more page time in this book. She has such love and devotion and just determination to reunite with Alira that you just want her to succeed.
This book is just so good because you just get to see more of all the characters from the previous books. I have a soft spot for Flynn and you get to see more of his character and I think he just keeps everything together. A calming presence. Now Emile, while I didn't love how he acted in Book 2, I really love how we get to see more of his inner thoughts and how he works as a Fate. And I just have really been loving the scenes he's in.
Zahra has also been an interesting character throughout this whole series because I feel like she's the one facing the most demons and is constantly at war with herself. And of course she's keeping such a huge secret from the end of Book 2. I really do love her character though because deep down she really is fighting her hardest to make the fight choices to save her family.
All in all, this was a fantastic read and it begs the question of which side is really in the right. You see multiple sides to this war and they all have brutal actions that make you question who you should be rooting for to win.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series because I know it's going to be just as amazing, the storytelling just draws you in and the characters just make you want more!
Another amazing book from N.A. Betts! I absolutely loved Books 1 and 2 but The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is even more amazing! I really loved how more indepth it gets with the characters. You really feel all the pain, suffering, and trauma these characters all face. This book is definitely not for the feint of heart, the suffering and inflicted physical pain of battle is brutal and gut wrenching.
I have to say, the way the author describes battle scenes are some of my favorites, you can just visualize the horror and bloodshed. Just so well written.
I think Alira has grown so much from even Book 2, but she still faces uncertainty and she draws conclusions before having all the facts which is so human and makes her so relatable. After the ending with Rinley in Book 2, I absolutely needed a reunion scene! But we got something even better, we got more Rinley. I absolutely loved Rinley in Book 2 and I really loved that she got more page time in this book. She has such love and devotion and just determination to reunite with Alira that you just want her to succeed.
This book is just so good because you just get to see more of all the characters from the previous books. I have a soft spot for Flynn and you get to see more of his character and I think he just keeps everything together. A calming presence. Now Emile, while I didn't love how he acted in Book 2, I really love how we get to see more of his inner thoughts and how he works as a Fate. And I just have really been loving the scenes he's in.
Zahra has also been an interesting character throughout this whole series because I feel like she's the one facing the most demons and is constantly at war with herself. And of course she's keeping such a huge secret from the end of Book 2. I really do love her character though because deep down she really is fighting her hardest to make the fight choices to save her family.
All in all, this was a fantastic read and it begs the question of which side is really in the right. You see multiple sides to this war and they all have brutal actions that make you question who you should be rooting for to win.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series because I know it's going to be just as amazing, the storytelling just draws you in and the characters just make you want more!
May 28, 2026
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword, the third installment in N.A. Betts’ noblebright fantasy series, delivers an emotional and character-driven continuation that balances betrayal, hope, and inner conflict against a vast fantasy backdrop. From frozen wastelands to ancient kingdoms, the story constantly feels expansive, yet deeply personal at the same time.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the emotional complexity surrounding Zahra’s secret and the revelation that the demon never truly left her. The gradual discovery among the characters creates tension and suspense that feels natural rather than forced. The internal battle between light and darkness inside Zahra’s mind is especially compelling, adding psychological depth to the fantasy elements and making her struggle feel intimate and tragic.
Alira’s journey throughout the novel is equally gripping. Her experiences with betrayal, survival, and the burden of impossible choices make her feel human despite the epic scale of the story. The relationships in the book stand out because they are written with genuine emotional weight. The sibling bonds feel authentic and close, while the friendships and romances are shaped by pain, mistrust, and healing in ways that pull the reader into the characters’ lives.
The plot twist involving Rinley’s betrayal was one of the most surprising moments in the novel. What makes it particularly effective is that the story still leaves room for redemption, which adds nuance instead of reducing the character to a simple villain. That balance between betrayal and lingering hope is one of the book’s greatest strengths.
The sense of distance and travel throughout the novel also deserves praise. As the characters separate and struggle to reconnect, the world feels enormous and alive. Their journeys carry emotional and physical weight, making reunions feel earned and meaningful.
Overall, The Serpent and the Shattered Sword succeeds not only as an epic fantasy novel filled with war, rebellion, and ancient secrets, but also as a deeply emotional story about trust, family, and the fight between darkness and light within ourselves. N.A. Betts continues to expand the world and characters in ways that feel both grand and personal, making this installment one of the most emotionally engaging entries in the series so far.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the emotional complexity surrounding Zahra’s secret and the revelation that the demon never truly left her. The gradual discovery among the characters creates tension and suspense that feels natural rather than forced. The internal battle between light and darkness inside Zahra’s mind is especially compelling, adding psychological depth to the fantasy elements and making her struggle feel intimate and tragic.
Alira’s journey throughout the novel is equally gripping. Her experiences with betrayal, survival, and the burden of impossible choices make her feel human despite the epic scale of the story. The relationships in the book stand out because they are written with genuine emotional weight. The sibling bonds feel authentic and close, while the friendships and romances are shaped by pain, mistrust, and healing in ways that pull the reader into the characters’ lives.
The plot twist involving Rinley’s betrayal was one of the most surprising moments in the novel. What makes it particularly effective is that the story still leaves room for redemption, which adds nuance instead of reducing the character to a simple villain. That balance between betrayal and lingering hope is one of the book’s greatest strengths.
The sense of distance and travel throughout the novel also deserves praise. As the characters separate and struggle to reconnect, the world feels enormous and alive. Their journeys carry emotional and physical weight, making reunions feel earned and meaningful.
Overall, The Serpent and the Shattered Sword succeeds not only as an epic fantasy novel filled with war, rebellion, and ancient secrets, but also as a deeply emotional story about trust, family, and the fight between darkness and light within ourselves. N.A. Betts continues to expand the world and characters in ways that feel both grand and personal, making this installment one of the most emotionally engaging entries in the series so far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2025
First of all, I’m honoured that Nick, the author of this amazing series, gave me the opportunity to be an ARC reader.. again!. I really appreciate it!
Now, let's move on to the good stuff!
I’m happy to say that this is my favourite book in the series so far! It really shows how much the author has improved and created something amazing. The pace was steady and it had me hooked from beginning to end! I devoured this book!
All the characters have amazing arcs and undergo great development. This third-person narrative not only focuses on Alira, but also shows what is happening with Zahra, Emile, Flynn, Teora and Rinley, as well as the Fates living among them.
The storyline is big, but it's easy to follow as most of the world-building took place in the first two books. The world is already established, and we know what's happening. Of course, there are surprises and plot twists to be added, but it's easier to follow.
Also, thank you for the recap of the first two books at the beginning of this one! It was a lifesaver! Every author should do this!
I wish I could say more about the book, but I don't want to spoil it for you! I absolutely loved this book! I loved the characters! I can't wait to find out what happens next
🤩🤩🤩🤩
Now, let's move on to the good stuff!
I’m happy to say that this is my favourite book in the series so far! It really shows how much the author has improved and created something amazing. The pace was steady and it had me hooked from beginning to end! I devoured this book!
All the characters have amazing arcs and undergo great development. This third-person narrative not only focuses on Alira, but also shows what is happening with Zahra, Emile, Flynn, Teora and Rinley, as well as the Fates living among them.
The storyline is big, but it's easy to follow as most of the world-building took place in the first two books. The world is already established, and we know what's happening. Of course, there are surprises and plot twists to be added, but it's easier to follow.
Also, thank you for the recap of the first two books at the beginning of this one! It was a lifesaver! Every author should do this!
I wish I could say more about the book, but I don't want to spoil it for you! I absolutely loved this book! I loved the characters! I can't wait to find out what happens next
🤩🤩🤩🤩
November 26, 2025
I’ve loved being on the ARC team for this series, and each book just gets better and better. The plot is incredibly dynamic and constant twists and turns will have you on the edge of your seat throughout. I feel like in this book the characters really come into their own, the emotions are high and the true natures of those we thought we knew are revealed. And as always I loved driving deeper into the lore and exploring more of the complex and vibrant world Betts has built. The Fates of Aten is really starting to shape up to make itself one of the greats of epic fantasy.
December 1, 2025
What an emotional rollercoaster!
This books had me twisting and turning with all the revelations, the character arcs, plot points and progression!
I can’t wait to see what’s next for Alirs and her cohorts in their fight for the world!
This books had me twisting and turning with all the revelations, the character arcs, plot points and progression!
I can’t wait to see what’s next for Alirs and her cohorts in their fight for the world!
December 19, 2025
(4.5 rounded down)
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is Book Three in N. A. Betts’ Fates of Aten series, and honestly? This is where the author fully takes the gloves off. The series started strong and kept improving, but this installment feels like everything finally clicks into place. We drop back in with my girl Alira and company not long after Book Two, and the tension is immediate. There’s a constant sense that things are spiraling, and not everyone is going to walk away unchanged.
The biggest strength of this installment is how personal it feels. Alira isn’t just facing bigger threats but she’s carrying the weight of her choices, questioning herself, and still pushing forward anyway. That emotional struggle gives the story real bite. She as always is the reason I return to this series and continues to hold her crown as MY QUEEN. The supporting cast also feels stronger and more defined here, especially as we get more time inside different POVs. Everyone has their own internal battle going on, and those threads add a lot of depth without ever feeling like filler.
This is a dense book. The world is large, the lore runs deep, and there’s a lot to keep track of. If you prefer simpler fantasy, this might feel overwhelming at times (But let’s be honest if you made it this far this shouldn’t be an issue 🙄). The pacing slows in the middle, which might test some readers’ patience, especially if you’re here primarily for nonstop action. There are also darker moments that may not be for everyone, so it’s worth being aware of that going in.
Overall, this was a standout entry for me and easily my favorite of the series so far. If you enjoy epic fantasy that prioritizes character growth, layered mythology, and long-term payoff over instant gratification (with a light romantic thread and no spice 👀) this book is absolutely worth picking up. It left me feeling both satisfied and wildly curious about what comes next 💜
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword is Book Three in N. A. Betts’ Fates of Aten series, and honestly? This is where the author fully takes the gloves off. The series started strong and kept improving, but this installment feels like everything finally clicks into place. We drop back in with my girl Alira and company not long after Book Two, and the tension is immediate. There’s a constant sense that things are spiraling, and not everyone is going to walk away unchanged.
The biggest strength of this installment is how personal it feels. Alira isn’t just facing bigger threats but she’s carrying the weight of her choices, questioning herself, and still pushing forward anyway. That emotional struggle gives the story real bite. She as always is the reason I return to this series and continues to hold her crown as MY QUEEN. The supporting cast also feels stronger and more defined here, especially as we get more time inside different POVs. Everyone has their own internal battle going on, and those threads add a lot of depth without ever feeling like filler.
This is a dense book. The world is large, the lore runs deep, and there’s a lot to keep track of. If you prefer simpler fantasy, this might feel overwhelming at times (But let’s be honest if you made it this far this shouldn’t be an issue 🙄). The pacing slows in the middle, which might test some readers’ patience, especially if you’re here primarily for nonstop action. There are also darker moments that may not be for everyone, so it’s worth being aware of that going in.
Overall, this was a standout entry for me and easily my favorite of the series so far. If you enjoy epic fantasy that prioritizes character growth, layered mythology, and long-term payoff over instant gratification (with a light romantic thread and no spice 👀) this book is absolutely worth picking up. It left me feeling both satisfied and wildly curious about what comes next 💜
August 29, 2026
The Serpent and the Shattered Sword by N.A. Betts pulled me right back into this world, and I honestly feel like the deeper I get into this series, the more invested I become. The stakes are higher, the danger is growing, and there are so many secrets and betrayals that I never knew who I could trust.
Poor Alira seriously cannot catch a break! Just when it seems like she might finally have a moment to breathe, something else happens. She carries so much weight on her shoulders and is constantly forced to make impossible choices. I really enjoyed watching her continue to grow throughout this book. She has been through so much, yet she continues to fight even when everything seems to be stacked against her.
One thing I really enjoy about this series is the world-building. With every book, we get to explore more of this world and uncover even more secrets. I found myself constantly trying to piece everything together and figure out who was being truthful and who had their own hidden agenda.
The danger and tension kept me hooked because it felt like something was always lurking around the corner. There were betrayals that had me questioning everything, secrets that slowly came to light, and moments where I was sitting there thinking, WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT?!
I also love when a series continues to build instead of feeling repetitive, and that is exactly what happened here. The story keeps expanding, the stakes continue to rise, and I feel like there is still so much more to uncover.
Poor Alira seriously cannot catch a break! Just when it seems like she might finally have a moment to breathe, something else happens. She carries so much weight on her shoulders and is constantly forced to make impossible choices. I really enjoyed watching her continue to grow throughout this book. She has been through so much, yet she continues to fight even when everything seems to be stacked against her.
One thing I really enjoy about this series is the world-building. With every book, we get to explore more of this world and uncover even more secrets. I found myself constantly trying to piece everything together and figure out who was being truthful and who had their own hidden agenda.
The danger and tension kept me hooked because it felt like something was always lurking around the corner. There were betrayals that had me questioning everything, secrets that slowly came to light, and moments where I was sitting there thinking, WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT?!
I also love when a series continues to build instead of feeling repetitive, and that is exactly what happened here. The story keeps expanding, the stakes continue to rise, and I feel like there is still so much more to uncover.
July 29, 2026
Wow — book three of The Fates of Aten does not disappoint. The stakes are higher, the characters face even tougher challenges, and the writing just keeps getting stronger with each instalment.
One thing I really appreciated in this book was the quick synopsis of the previous novels — the worldbuilding is massive, so that little refresher was genuinely helpful!
I’ll admit I still got lost at times because of the sheer number of characters, dialects, and locations (I should’ve taken notes 😆), but honestly, that also speaks to the scale of the world the author has built. It’s ambitious, layered, and incredibly detailed.I loved the twists, turns, surprises, and constant reveals. The Fates of Aten leaves you breathless for more — more characters, more secrets, and a Fate balanced on the thinnest edge.
One thing I really appreciated in this book was the quick synopsis of the previous novels — the worldbuilding is massive, so that little refresher was genuinely helpful!
I’ll admit I still got lost at times because of the sheer number of characters, dialects, and locations (I should’ve taken notes 😆), but honestly, that also speaks to the scale of the world the author has built. It’s ambitious, layered, and incredibly detailed.I loved the twists, turns, surprises, and constant reveals. The Fates of Aten leaves you breathless for more — more characters, more secrets, and a Fate balanced on the thinnest edge.
November 25, 2025
N.A. Betts did it again and the 3rd time is a charm. (Btw so were the first two.) Each book makes you feel more a part of the adventure. As you explore more of the journey of the Fates, you become one. Fiercely wanting to defend them. Wanting to let them in on what you know. Cheering them actually outloud (and my family wondering wth is wrong with me :-s). Get to know them in book 1, learn more about and from them in book 2, and book 3 be one of them. What a great adventure I recommend to everyone. Brilliant story that ties up all ends so well.
May 6, 2026
As I expected, this book was filled with more twists and turns and emotional damage! Alira is put through SO much, I don’t even know where to begin haha. I’ll keep this short, if you love betrayal, dark secrets, questioning everything you thought you knew and survival.....this book and this series is for you! I highly recommend!! Again, I am scared to read on, I’m sure more emotional damage awaits...
September 5, 2026
This book is definitely this series' Empire Strikes Back. So many revelations, some betrayals that sting, some continued great action. I liked how we got some more time with a couple of the other Fates (Emile and Flynn) this time around. This book was definitely a turning point for the series as it is ramping up toward its eventual conclusion. Interested to see where Betts takes us in book 4!
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