Ritual of Ruin

by Kel Kade

Rezkin lives, a secret known only to a chosen few. Now, Azeria is one of them. Joining forces, they avoid discovery while seeking the power to stand against Caydean’s demons. A tale of ancient technology draws them to the land of a forgotten people. Can the secret treasure of the infamous Demon War help the rebels turn the tide?

Wesson is determined to find a way to free Caydean’s mages of their oaths. He steps onto a dark path in his bid to free the enslaved, but will the results justify the means? His soul is at stake as he walks the line between savior and executioner.

More people fill the streets of Kaibain than anyone thought possible, but why? Caydean has drawn the entire kingdom to his doorstep, where the demonic king prepares a weapon of untold power. His plan will end with his ascension… and humanity’s destruction. From the shadows Rezkin has hunted the king’s allies, he has plotted to unify the shattered alliance, and now is the hour of his return. The master assassin, the true king, Emperor of the Souelian, stands as the people’s last hope.

Genres: Fantasy, Audiobook

486 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2025

About the author

Kel Kade lives in Texas and occasionally serves as an adjunct college faculty member, inspiring young minds and introducing them to the fascinating and very real world of geosciences. Thanks to Kade’s enthusiastic readers and the success of the King’s Dark Tidings series, Kade is now able to create universes spanning space and time, develop criminal empires, plot the downfall of tyrannous rulers, and dive into fantastical mysteries full time.

Growing up, Kade lived a military lifestyle of traveling to and living in new places. These experiences with distinctive cultures and geography instilled in Kade a sense of wanderlust and opened a young mind to the knowledge that the Earth is expansive and wild. A deep interest in science, ancient history, cultural anthropology, art, music, languages, and spirituality is evidenced by the diversity and richness of the places and cultures depicted in Kade’s writing.

Reviews

[Judy Klich · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s alright

This series really peaked with the second book. Now there’s just too much going on and all the politics that doesn’t involve Rezkin just have me confused. This whole demon war really took the series on a wild goose chase that it can’t recover from. I’m not sure if I’ll continue following the series.

[Str 1066 · Rating 2 out of 5]

A poor continuation of the story

The story has changed so much from the first books. It takes a big effort to read it. The characters create little emotional attachment and the plot is very slow to move along. A lot of words to say very little. This is a far cry from the first few books in the series.

[Vailhiker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Is it just me or did the writing get worse? The story seemed rushed and stilted. I've enjoyed this series, but this one fell flat. The author should have included a recap. Some sentences were just stupid. Example, "Rezkin and his companions took seats in the sturdy chairs that did not so much as creak under their weight." What? It's stupid filler. There's a lot of boring writing in this book.

[Eric · Rating 2 out of 5]

Authoress Kel Kade is no closer to ending this saga then she was with book one. In fact, her plots are becoming a bit goofy. Demons against the world. I won't be holding my breath for book eight.

[fish003 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yea I don't know about this one. I enjoyed the last book because it was fun to see Rezkin go it alone and work in the shadows to sow all his seeds and prepare to defeat Cayden, but this book took a different turn that I'm not sure I enjoyed. He goes from trying to assassinate Cayden to hunting for a vimaral spring to training with the elves to revealing he's alive to his subjects to suddenly trying to foil Cayden's nefarious ritual in the capital. Like it just jumps all over the place. It was hard to follow and even harder to feel actually engaged in.

But the thing that bothered me the most was the romance. It felt kind of icky. Like you're telling me the author thought it was a good idea to have the 80 year old immortal elf trick the emotionally-stunted 20 year old human into mating with her? It's just gross that she intentionally had Entris wear Rezkin down until he was in the most emotionally vulnerable state he could possibly be in so that he would want to bond with her. Frankly, it was rather violating. I wouldn't go as far as to say it was rape because Rezkin definitely wanted to fuck her, but when he had been more mentally stable he had resolved not to accept the bond with her because of some pretty valid reasons. So I would definitely say there was some sort of coercion going on. Which isn't how you should go about writing the development of a romance. And while the age-gap isn't the worse I've seen in the fantasy romance genre where it tends to be several hundreds of years, it certainly felt weird because of the nature of Rezkin's upbringing. Him being severely emotionally stunted and entirely ignorant of relationships made him feel like that much more of a child compared to Azeria, so it felt wrong for them to not only be paired up, but for the culmination of their relationship to occur the way it did. Maybe if the author spent a bit more time having Rezkin learn to figure out his emotions before they had him and Azeria get together than the pair up wouldn't seem as icky, but because that didn't really happen I was very uncomfortable with it.

So, all in all, I'm not so sure I want to continue reading. The story has gone off the rails and Rezkin's character arc kind of got a little fucked up during this book, so I don't know I'm all that interested in seeing the next installment. We'll see.

[Britany Taylor · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 ⭐️. The best thing about this book? That it ended.
If you would like to save your time here’s the plot: Azeria + Rez= horny and there’s more demons.
Rez is an absolute loser now. And Azeria is a manipulative brat. i felt like this whole book I was getting “sold” on Azeria. Every character had to try and convince me that they are perfect for each other. Because I think the author knows that no one cares about this relationship. They’ve known each other for 2 weeks and they are gonna break all of their rules to be together? Oh and let me guess the next book they will probably be fated mates or some bs.

Another point, I don’t even recognize the characters anymore, they all had a personality change and it’s infuriating.
I fell in love with these books because of the characters and Rez just being an overall badass. But somewhere along the way Rez becomes a loser with feelings and everyone else just doesn’t exist and if they do have a cameo (because that’s literally what it is at this point) then they are completely different.
Everything is just to messy now, too many players on the board and not enough time to introduce them and advance the plot.
I would much rather see these books progress than get to know more people because for the last 3 books they have been the exact same: argue with friends ✅ make eyes at Azeria ✅ someone gets captured ✅ fight Caydean and lose ✅ introduce some random new species ✅ someone finds out they aren’t actually human ✅
Anyway, not sure I will continue with the series because it seems to be going no where and I’m truly devastated that it has fallen so far.

[Darby · Rating 5 out of 5]

wild!!!

[Julie Bird · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, well again I expected this to be the conclusion, but alas, not so! The plot thickens!! Just have to wait for more of Reskin and company.

[Peter Kendrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! Now I have to wait again......

[Monserrat Labra Escudero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one! The main character’s growth was such a highlight for me—it’s been amazing to see how far they’ve come and how their relationships have evolved. That part really pulled me in. The story kept me hooked from start to finish, and the world-building is still as strong as ever.

If I’m being honest, I would have loved a little more focus on some of the other characters. There are so many interesting personalities in this series, and I think giving them more time would have made the book even better.

I actually thought this was going to be the last book, so finding out the series is continuing was such a great surprise! I’m really excited to see where things go next.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rez is almost the GOAT!! Can't wait.

Worthy of the series with nail biting, tender, sad, happy, exciting, scary, chaotic, and action packed moments and so much more.

| tried to make this last, even listening to the entire series before starting on this book, but eventually couldn't resist the pull.

Thank you Kel Kade for your brilliant series and to Nick Podehl's amazing narration. I will be trying to patiently wait for the next book.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A decent installment in the series. It went way too fast. I already need more.

I'm loyal to the series given how much I loved books 1 and 2. Rezkin getting magic kind of pissed me off the first time, but I've grown to embrace it with a couple rereads (did I already mention how much I love the first 2 books?). This book had some weird writing/phrasing, and it felt like a bit of a filler at times, but it was okay. I just want Rezkin to find peace and be happy!

[Miles · Rating 2 out of 5]

2☆ this once great series has fallen on hard times.

[Rose Barbour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book

This was another great book in an amazing series, the wait was long but the story unfolding makes it worth re reading. The characters are well developed and thought out and the action scenes are top notch. If you haven't read any of these books, you really should start at the beginning, you won't be disappointed.... Unless you don't read them.

[Paul D. Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Production That Shows this Series’ Best!!!

THE BEST IN THE SERIES SINCE BOOK 4!!!!!!!!!!

This was a prime example of why I fell in love with this series! Finally the perfect balance of adventure, world building, politics, and combat that made Kingdoms and Chaos such a masterpiece. Definitely a top 3 book in the series. Loved the focus on Wes as well as Rezkin’s inner journey! Cant wait for the next installment!!!

[Sines · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the final nail in the coffin as far as i'm concerned.

Compared to the previous book this is marginaly better but the lows are even lower. This is especially a shame since the adventure started on a surprisingly good start, back on focus and making the plot moves forward right from page 1.

Alas, that momentum was only used to push us faster towards the cliff. As far as the plot is concerned outside of a very limited number of people, any relevant characters from before book 5 might as well be dead for all they are useful. Entire chunks of the cast, tremendously important people for the core and heart of the main character got Thanos snapped. Remember the queen, the mc's own mother that got back her son back from the dead twice over? Remember Xa, the guy that swore a life oath to protect an important emotional pillar of Rez's life and miserably failed? Remember when we wasted pages upon pages of beastkin side plot to end up with a weird Wolf girl bond?
The author sure dont seem to.

Instead you get more new characters introduction that I have no attachement to since I saw how previous characters get treated and endless snores of elf politics and low quality teenage fantasy romance.

The overall plot finally moves near the end, but I'm way too checked out to care. There's nothing left of what once was and what we get instead is just mediocre.

I'm done with the series, I will likely enjoy going through book 1~5 again in the future and simply stop once Rezkin dies. In the end, he never truly came back.

[Suraj]

I've been a huge fan of Kel Kade's King's Dark Tidings series from the very beginning, and settling in for "Ritual of Ruin," Book 7, felt like catching up with an old, familiar friend. While I have to be honest and say it didn't quite hit the same blistering, chaotic high-octane pace of those first few installments—the ones that had me absolutely jaw-clenched and tearing through pages—it's still a genuinely good read and a crucial entry in the saga.

There were definitely a few sections that felt a little too focused on political maneuvering or logistics, pulling the tempo down just a bit more than I would have liked. Unlike the early books, where every chapter seemed to explode with action or a massive revelation, there were moments here where things felt, well, dull. I missed that non-stop, breath-holding excitement that defined the start of the series.

However, once the pieces started moving and the true stakes of the conflict came into focus, the book really hit its stride. The world-building remains rich, the main characters are as compelling as ever, and the central plot developments keep the overarching narrative moving forward in a meaningful way. It was a satisfying journey, even if it took a slightly different, more measured path than its predecessors.

Overall, this book proves that the series still has plenty of life left in it. It’s a necessary, well-executed chapter, setting the stage for bigger things to come. Despite a few slower stretches, I closed the final page feeling fully invested and, as always, I absolutely cannot wait to see what Kel does next!

[Evan Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always been curious about how Rez’s emotions would finally surface. I originally thought Frisha would be the one to bring that out, but once Azeria entered the story, the love arc felt so much more natural and meaningful than continuing with Frisha. But, more so than just being in love, I like how he discovers that his sense of duty and power actually comes from his emotions. It is such a satisfying way to develop the character and do it justice while showing the evolution of his philosophy towards his purpose. His emotions have been building for a while and Azeria was the catalyst. She’s also extremely well written and I love their dynamic. Kel did a great job showing what true love is, and I love that Rezkin finally has someone that loves him for all of him instead of always judging and thinking the worst (something I hated about Frisha). I really hope for a good ending with Rezkin and Azeria.

Rez is just one of the best characters in fiction in my opinion.

The pacing has been quicker too, and I’ve enjoyed it as well as the tight focus on the main characters. Wesson’s storyline throughout it was absolutely insane/amazing and his discovery of himself was really intriguing. I do wish Tam, Tieran, and Frisha were touched on a bit more though.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Dialogue, Monologue, Improved Magic System and Unexpected Twists

Book 7 does not disappoint! You'll find this one hard to put down. Ritual of Ruin was packed with twists. The ending was suspenseful and the battles exciting. Book 7 can be described in one word - growth! Gone are the youngsters. They all have grown into heroes. The author has grown too. Kade shows off with solid world building and an improved magical system. She found a way to mingle a classic sword play story with magic and mages. Check out "Mage of No Renown" and you'll get what I'm saying. You can tell she spent time creating each character's backstory and the way she used dialogue and internal monologue gave them more depth. For example, Rez's conversation with Farson hit the mark. Look for it! It was corny but like - Finally! I recommend Ritual of Ruin to mature tweens, teens and adults of all ages who are swordplay/fantasy/magic book lovers. Ritual of Ruin is a great xmas stocking stuffer and will make a good winter break read. Enjoy!

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was alright. I was hoping the story would have concluded, as I think the story is getting a little tedious, but that was not to be the case. We seem to have entered an entirely new arc, that I don't see being wrapped up any time soon. Fortunately, Rezkin and friends are still entertaining to read about, so it's not the worst thing to have more content.
I think the pacing of the book is a little odd. At times it really seems to drag, and then the next minute, we have blitzed through progress and storylines so fast I had to go back and reread the events to make sure I didn't miss anything.
Ultimately, the book is an easy fun read, but I don't find it as enjoyable as the earlier books in the series.

[Rex · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series

Well I for one am so glad Rezkin and Azeira finally got things worked out between them. I I'm a romantic at heart and them together does my soul good. I love seeing Rezkins growth from not trusting anyone to finally admitting he needs friends and that he loves Azeira. I'm also a big fan of dragons so Senna fit in perfectly. Every once in a while I'll find myself reading a book that I just don't want to end because I know it will complete the story and I'm not ready for it to end. That was where I found myself with this book so it is with great relief that I find there will be at least one more book coming.

[Dalton Rimbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the book enough - I see all the mixed reviews, but I just love the series so hard for me to hate any of the books. Wessen has always been my favorite character, so I like that he's in this book a ton.
I do worry a bit about the direction on the book, from where it started, to where it's at now, all the plot lines, other characters. Seems like this has to be at least 4 more books to tie everything up properly. I don't love that we are entering the demon war territory. Honestly, the first 4 books were so money - then it seems like it just shifted and it's getting a little out of hand lol.

[Drew Slik · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give the book 3.5 stars if I could. I really enjoyed the development the author made with Rezkin and Wesson but I continue to feel frustrated at how the author is constantly opening new plots without resolving old ones. For example all the character he focused on for the last 7 books basically just didn’t exist in this book besides Tam. I love Rezkin as a character and thats what keeps me coming back but the story needs to progress in a more satisfactory rhythm.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kings Dark Tidings series

As a mature woman who enjoys fantasy novels, I am very impressed with your writing. You have managed to have each book of the series to read without repeated info and keep the reader interested from beginning to end. I look forward to your next book in the series!

[Jonathan Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

it’s ok

This is one of my favourite series and I have been waiting for this for some time. The world and characters have grown so much that the books have lost some of their soul. It’s well written, if not a little rushed, and almost seems a Part 1 of a bigger story. I’m sure they will bring it back around

[Joy Nardini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Totally entertaining and I’m still invested but I just wanted more information than what was given to me. Some of the side characters only have a few pages for the whole book where the previous books the storylines were a lot more intertwined.

[jorge sacio · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh

A lot of filler, convenient plot lines, some deus ex machina, Tam becoming part Fae, more filler.
The story is not as attractive as it once was, I ended up skimming many passages. Pity.

[John Fry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and I think it’s probably one of the best in the series. The pace regarding Azeria and Rezkin’s romance was bang on I thought - not rushed and not too drawn out and not the full focus of the book either. Well done Kel Kade, I honestly can’t wait for book 8!!!

[Jacob Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

That's what I'm effing talking about

See. This is what we needed. The last book was good. But I'm still tainted from book 4.

This was awesome start to finish. I literally read it in one day

I'm going to be exhausted at work tomorrow because of this book

It was fantastic

[Allison Guaspari · Rating 3 out of 5]

so much filler

I was excited for this book to come out but there’s a lot of filler on these pages. Yes we moved the story forward but at times with lengthy descriptions that felt unneeded. This was the first of this series that I had to make myself pick up the book.