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The Hirathean Path #3
Blood of Truth and Traitors
Rose Kultavaris has always believed that power was the answer. Power to protect. Power to avenge. Power to choose her own fate.
But she was wrong.
Power is not a blessing. It is a curse.
Now she stands in a hidden city of ice and knowledge, where nothing is as savage as she was taught to believe, and everything she thought she knew about loyalty, heritage, and destiny begins to unravel.
As enemies circle closer and prophecies rise, Rose must train harder than ever to master the magic once ripped from her, even if Kyor despises the man tasked with teaching her.
Tension coils between them as Kyor remains bound by a vow that is strangling them both, torn between crown and conscience, duty and the woman he would burn the world to protect.
When war breaches even the safest borders and blood stains sacred ground, Rose is forced to confront a truth that could unmake her entirely.
Because destiny has not just chosen her. It made her.
And it can unmake her just as easily.
Blood of Truth and Traitors is the third instalment in this dark, spicy, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romantasy series, perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, The Serpent and the Wings of the Night, and Throne of Glass.
Tropes you’ll
Enemies to Lovers
Jealousy & Possessive Tension
Hidden Royal Lineage
Prophecy & End of Days
Ancient Daggers
Forced Proximity
Court Intrigue
Gods with Dangerous Gifts
But she was wrong.
Power is not a blessing. It is a curse.
Now she stands in a hidden city of ice and knowledge, where nothing is as savage as she was taught to believe, and everything she thought she knew about loyalty, heritage, and destiny begins to unravel.
As enemies circle closer and prophecies rise, Rose must train harder than ever to master the magic once ripped from her, even if Kyor despises the man tasked with teaching her.
Tension coils between them as Kyor remains bound by a vow that is strangling them both, torn between crown and conscience, duty and the woman he would burn the world to protect.
When war breaches even the safest borders and blood stains sacred ground, Rose is forced to confront a truth that could unmake her entirely.
Because destiny has not just chosen her. It made her.
And it can unmake her just as easily.
Blood of Truth and Traitors is the third instalment in this dark, spicy, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romantasy series, perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, The Serpent and the Wings of the Night, and Throne of Glass.
Tropes you’ll
Enemies to Lovers
Jealousy & Possessive Tension
Hidden Royal Lineage
Prophecy & End of Days
Ancient Daggers
Forced Proximity
Court Intrigue
Gods with Dangerous Gifts
552 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2026
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July 15, 2026I need this book ASAP, i dont wanna wait :(
Currently Reading
September 24, 2026~pre read~
Hoping I like this more than book 2 otherwise it’ll probably be a dnf
Hoping I like this more than book 2 otherwise it’ll probably be a dnf
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh man that ending OOOOOF. 4.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫. & thank you to the authors for sending me both an ARC & an ALC
This is book 3 in the Hirathean Path series & while I won’t provide any spoilers for this book in this review, it’s likely there could be some for books 1 & 2.
PLOT
Upon arriving to Issen & receiving the interesting welcome, Rose & co. need to find out more about their lifelong enemies. But this city isn’t as it seems & doesn’t match what they’ve been told. Also, Rose has been tasked with completing a certain Rite in order to gain rank in the city. Between the stress of that, the vows preventing everyone from sharing truths, & the onslaught of new knowledge, they don’t know what to believe.
- book 3 of 4 in series
- lots of training
- new kingdoms/magic to explore, expanding world
- forbidden love
- medium level spice
- duet audiobook
PROS
- This made me happy & sad & stressed all in one. The back 40% or so of this book was so much action & I audibly gasped a few times. This series remains A RIDE & I am enjoying myself so much (even when I’m slightly panicked).
- The found family in this really is tremendous. Like I love each of them so much I want only happiness & rainbows & sunshine for them & DAMNIT WHEN CAN THEY HAVE IT?!
- There are some secondary romances that are emerging & I love them.
- There was a line from one of the characters that BROKE ME IN HALF. Oh my god my heart. I welled up a little.
- ^^ there’s just a good look at grief in this book. This series thus far has not shied away from loss; it has ACTUAL stakes & I deeply appreciate it. & getting to this book they’ve lost a ton already. So some of their interactions regarding their personal griefs really just sunk into my soul.
- Expansion of Rose & Fen’s relationship is wonderful.
- I loved meeting the Issen & understanding their culture more & the history & how that ties to Rose.
- The world in general expanding is very fun for me & there are some like, Game of Thrones aspects emerging (compliment) that are great.
- There was a turn that SHOOK ME. Jaw on the floor. SO interested in where this takes us.
- The duet audiobook remains excellent. They really have done a fabulous job. Anthony Palmini gets a lot of love in the romantasy world (for good reason) but I want to give Amanda Leigh Cobb her ABSOLUTE FLOWERS for soaring in this.
- Kyor had some amazing development this book. Hell yeah hot stuff.
MIDS
- I really do like Rose a lot but there were some moments that felt a little weird for her. A lot of just assuming a thing is the way it is & powering forward on a guess vs. the strong but inquisitive person she has been. Maybe it’s just a part of her growing into more of a leadership role? Idk it felt a little off for her, though I still MAJORLY like her. So not a complaint, just a note.
CONS
- This book is a little longer than it needed to be in my opinion. There was A LOT of training & then attempting the Rite over & over. I appreciated seeing Rose overcome a challenge & I think the pacing was intentional, but for me this choice made the front half a bit repetitive. I feel like the first 60% could have been tightened a bit & then I’d have no pacing issues.
- There was a storyline that seemingly happened & was solved & I’m not sure there was a purpose for it? I thought it would carry more weight & it just didn’t. In a way that feels like “oh, that’s it?”
- A MAJOR thing happened & I just feel like the catalyst (or means for prevention I guess is more accurate) didn’t make a ton of sense. It seemed to only exist to set this particular thing into motion vs. making sense for characters/situation. Which made it feel a little unnecessary.
Cannot wait to finish this series in the next book OH YEAH.
This is book 3 in the Hirathean Path series & while I won’t provide any spoilers for this book in this review, it’s likely there could be some for books 1 & 2.
PLOT
Upon arriving to Issen & receiving the interesting welcome, Rose & co. need to find out more about their lifelong enemies. But this city isn’t as it seems & doesn’t match what they’ve been told. Also, Rose has been tasked with completing a certain Rite in order to gain rank in the city. Between the stress of that, the vows preventing everyone from sharing truths, & the onslaught of new knowledge, they don’t know what to believe.
- book 3 of 4 in series
- lots of training
- new kingdoms/magic to explore, expanding world
- forbidden love
- medium level spice
- duet audiobook
PROS
- This made me happy & sad & stressed all in one. The back 40% or so of this book was so much action & I audibly gasped a few times. This series remains A RIDE & I am enjoying myself so much (even when I’m slightly panicked).
- The found family in this really is tremendous. Like I love each of them so much I want only happiness & rainbows & sunshine for them & DAMNIT WHEN CAN THEY HAVE IT?!
- There are some secondary romances that are emerging & I love them.
- There was a line from one of the characters that BROKE ME IN HALF. Oh my god my heart. I welled up a little.
- ^^ there’s just a good look at grief in this book. This series thus far has not shied away from loss; it has ACTUAL stakes & I deeply appreciate it. & getting to this book they’ve lost a ton already. So some of their interactions regarding their personal griefs really just sunk into my soul.
- Expansion of Rose & Fen’s relationship is wonderful.
- I loved meeting the Issen & understanding their culture more & the history & how that ties to Rose.
- The world in general expanding is very fun for me & there are some like, Game of Thrones aspects emerging (compliment) that are great.
- There was a turn that SHOOK ME. Jaw on the floor. SO interested in where this takes us.
- The duet audiobook remains excellent. They really have done a fabulous job. Anthony Palmini gets a lot of love in the romantasy world (for good reason) but I want to give Amanda Leigh Cobb her ABSOLUTE FLOWERS for soaring in this.
- Kyor had some amazing development this book. Hell yeah hot stuff.
MIDS
- I really do like Rose a lot but there were some moments that felt a little weird for her. A lot of just assuming a thing is the way it is & powering forward on a guess vs. the strong but inquisitive person she has been. Maybe it’s just a part of her growing into more of a leadership role? Idk it felt a little off for her, though I still MAJORLY like her. So not a complaint, just a note.
CONS
- This book is a little longer than it needed to be in my opinion. There was A LOT of training & then attempting the Rite over & over. I appreciated seeing Rose overcome a challenge & I think the pacing was intentional, but for me this choice made the front half a bit repetitive. I feel like the first 60% could have been tightened a bit & then I’d have no pacing issues.
- There was a storyline that seemingly happened & was solved & I’m not sure there was a purpose for it? I thought it would carry more weight & it just didn’t. In a way that feels like “oh, that’s it?”
- A MAJOR thing happened & I just feel like the catalyst (or means for prevention I guess is more accurate) didn’t make a ton of sense. It seemed to only exist to set this particular thing into motion vs. making sense for characters/situation. Which made it feel a little unnecessary.
Cannot wait to finish this series in the next book OH YEAH.
August 26, 2026
I genuinely don’t know the last time a book made me cry as much as this one. Aria Ashbrook has absolutely ripped my heart out. Eff them both.
The continuation of this story was incredible. The authors have a way of taking narratives I would usually dislike (similar things happening repeatedly, tension that could be sorted by just having a conversation) and making them so gripping that I fully see the reasoning behind the plot device.
As someone who has felt so disenchanted by romantasy in recent years, these two have shown me why I fell in love with it in the first place. This found family feel like people I know and care about and if it wasn’t for the escalation in my therapy bills I would never want this series to end
The continuation of this story was incredible. The authors have a way of taking narratives I would usually dislike (similar things happening repeatedly, tension that could be sorted by just having a conversation) and making them so gripping that I fully see the reasoning behind the plot device.
As someone who has felt so disenchanted by romantasy in recent years, these two have shown me why I fell in love with it in the first place. This found family feel like people I know and care about and if it wasn’t for the escalation in my therapy bills I would never want this series to end
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5⭐️
okay so, i loved book 1, and when i finished book 2, i genuinely felt like it had set the stage for a potential 5-star-worthy book 3. unfortunately, this book ended up falling a little flat for me.
something about the whole story just felt off. from the plot holes to the awkward dynamic between our main characters, rose and kyor, i wasn't connecting with this book in the way i had hoped to.
while i enjoyed seeing rose train her powers and learn more about her origins, some of the plot twists and reveals felt unnecessary. at times, it seemed like the authors were trying so hard to shock readers that the twists actually became predictable. instead of being surprised, i found myself seeing a lot of them coming.
as for rose and kyor, their chemistry felt completely different compared to the first two books. kyor's jealousy was dialed up so much that he almost came across as insecure, which was disappointing because this is not the sassy, confident kyor i fell in love with in book 1. i'm all for character growth, but his behaviour often felt forced and out of character.
and then there's rose and her constant doubt of him. i understand that both of them were keeping secrets, but it felt like she'd say she loved him and then immediately question his motives in the same breath. i don't know exactly what was missing, but the romance just didn't hit the same way it did in the previous books.
honestly, my favourite part of this entire book was fen and rose's relationship. fen's dialogue was hilarious, and i ate up every single snarky comment he made. i loved how fiercely loyal he was to rose while still being willing to call her out on her shortcomings. their dynamic easily stole the show for me.
i will say, though, that out of all the twists thrown at us, the one at the very end was probably the RUDEST. it'll definitely be interesting to see how everything unfolds in the final book.
if you enjoyed the hirathean path this far, definitely mark your calendars because blood of truth and traitors releases september 22, 2026.
thank you to aria ashbrook for sending me an eARC for review!
okay so, i loved book 1, and when i finished book 2, i genuinely felt like it had set the stage for a potential 5-star-worthy book 3. unfortunately, this book ended up falling a little flat for me.
something about the whole story just felt off. from the plot holes to the awkward dynamic between our main characters, rose and kyor, i wasn't connecting with this book in the way i had hoped to.
while i enjoyed seeing rose train her powers and learn more about her origins, some of the plot twists and reveals felt unnecessary. at times, it seemed like the authors were trying so hard to shock readers that the twists actually became predictable. instead of being surprised, i found myself seeing a lot of them coming.
as for rose and kyor, their chemistry felt completely different compared to the first two books. kyor's jealousy was dialed up so much that he almost came across as insecure, which was disappointing because this is not the sassy, confident kyor i fell in love with in book 1. i'm all for character growth, but his behaviour often felt forced and out of character.
and then there's rose and her constant doubt of him. i understand that both of them were keeping secrets, but it felt like she'd say she loved him and then immediately question his motives in the same breath. i don't know exactly what was missing, but the romance just didn't hit the same way it did in the previous books.
honestly, my favourite part of this entire book was fen and rose's relationship. fen's dialogue was hilarious, and i ate up every single snarky comment he made. i loved how fiercely loyal he was to rose while still being willing to call her out on her shortcomings. their dynamic easily stole the show for me.
i will say, though, that out of all the twists thrown at us, the one at the very end was probably the RUDEST. it'll definitely be interesting to see how everything unfolds in the final book.
if you enjoyed the hirathean path this far, definitely mark your calendars because blood of truth and traitors releases september 22, 2026.
thank you to aria ashbrook for sending me an eARC for review!
August 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
So I got to read this as an ARC and I am very grateful for the opportunity.
Overall I did enjoy the book. But I do feel it’s fallen into the trap a lot series have in that this could have been a trilogy.
Let’s start with the positives. I loved the banter. The characters growing together, pressing each other’s buttons and having a laugh. I adored Fen. I think he may be my favourite animal sidekick. I did enjoy learning about the different cultures and seeing the characters grow.
However. I do feel this really dragged in places. There were days on end where nothing really happened. Where we just had to see Rose feel guilty and beat herself up again. It was really repetitive. AND on top of that she loses another friend so she can once again beat herself up. I really don’t see how his death moved the story along - it didn’t bring any revelation nor did it give Rose any new feelings / way of looking at life - that was frustrating. And did Rose really have to try that many times at the veil??
Sadly I think I feel book 2&3 are more of a setup for the big finale but they could have been combined.
I am still looking forward to book 4 and I look forward to the conclusion. This one just doesn’t live up to the love I have for book 1.
So I got to read this as an ARC and I am very grateful for the opportunity.
Overall I did enjoy the book. But I do feel it’s fallen into the trap a lot series have in that this could have been a trilogy.
Let’s start with the positives. I loved the banter. The characters growing together, pressing each other’s buttons and having a laugh. I adored Fen. I think he may be my favourite animal sidekick. I did enjoy learning about the different cultures and seeing the characters grow.
However. I do feel this really dragged in places. There were days on end where nothing really happened. Where we just had to see Rose feel guilty and beat herself up again. It was really repetitive. AND on top of that she loses another friend so she can once again beat herself up. I really don’t see how his death moved the story along - it didn’t bring any revelation nor did it give Rose any new feelings / way of looking at life - that was frustrating. And did Rose really have to try that many times at the veil??
Sadly I think I feel book 2&3 are more of a setup for the big finale but they could have been combined.
I am still looking forward to book 4 and I look forward to the conclusion. This one just doesn’t live up to the love I have for book 1.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2026
This book has made me so nervous for the final book of the series. The pieces have been set in motion, a lot of new information was given, and there was loads of loss I wasn't expecting.
The tides have turned greatly given everything our MFC has gone through so far, and not just her. The characters really are going through the ringer in this series. And boy, did this book knock the wind out of me more than once. I legit cried at least twice and that's more than I signed up for when I'm trying to listen at work. 🤣 A lot of the random questions from book 2 did get answers. So far, everything is tying up nicely. I think it left off in a pretty great place too. I have a feeling the final book in the series is going to be a deviating one. 😬
Trigger warnings are definitely included for this one including child loss, on page death, alcohol usage, and more. There was quite a bit in this one. As far as spice goes, it's a little less than the second book, little more than the first. This book focuses more on story progression.
Over all, it's an amazing continuation of everything we have gotten so far, but I'm very much ready for the finale!
I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
The tides have turned greatly given everything our MFC has gone through so far, and not just her. The characters really are going through the ringer in this series. And boy, did this book knock the wind out of me more than once. I legit cried at least twice and that's more than I signed up for when I'm trying to listen at work. 🤣 A lot of the random questions from book 2 did get answers. So far, everything is tying up nicely. I think it left off in a pretty great place too. I have a feeling the final book in the series is going to be a deviating one. 😬
Trigger warnings are definitely included for this one including child loss, on page death, alcohol usage, and more. There was quite a bit in this one. As far as spice goes, it's a little less than the second book, little more than the first. This book focuses more on story progression.
Over all, it's an amazing continuation of everything we have gotten so far, but I'm very much ready for the finale!
I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 29, 2026
will give full review soon!
August 29, 2026
Another ARC read!
I wanted to like this so bad. Unfortunately I was very disappointed.
It felt like two different people were writing this, one person was sorta worried about the plot & answering any questions and One person was worried about seeing how many times they could write “trachea” …
This could’ve easily been a trilogy and been FULL of action instead it was a whole lot of nothing happening and then at the last second we get some info but not the full story and then boom a cliffhanger? I pushed through just to say I finished it but honestly that whole ending of “oh dang I need to write something crazy to make them wanna read book 4” just royally pissed me off..
PS. Whoever compared Kyor to Xaden, needs to reread fourth wing because in WHAT world are they even on the same wavelength.
I wanted to like this so bad. Unfortunately I was very disappointed.
It felt like two different people were writing this, one person was sorta worried about the plot & answering any questions and One person was worried about seeing how many times they could write “trachea” …
This could’ve easily been a trilogy and been FULL of action instead it was a whole lot of nothing happening and then at the last second we get some info but not the full story and then boom a cliffhanger? I pushed through just to say I finished it but honestly that whole ending of “oh dang I need to write something crazy to make them wanna read book 4” just royally pissed me off..
PS. Whoever compared Kyor to Xaden, needs to reread fourth wing because in WHAT world are they even on the same wavelength.
August 23, 2026
Completely blown away! This book was amazing from start to finish.
I’m so grateful in being an eARC reader on this amazing series, and devoured this book in 24 hours.
This book completely destroyed me, had me crying through multiple chapters but still left me wanting more. The cliffhanger ending 🤯 Top tier series for sure and one of my best reads of the year! I highly recommend!!
I’m so grateful in being an eARC reader on this amazing series, and devoured this book in 24 hours.
This book completely destroyed me, had me crying through multiple chapters but still left me wanting more. The cliffhanger ending 🤯 Top tier series for sure and one of my best reads of the year! I highly recommend!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I laughed, I cried, and then the final part sent everything spiraling to another level—I could hardly breathe.
Straight into the next Trial, poor Rose! She truly cannot catch a break.
I absolutely adore Fen and his sarcasm, and this cast continues to be one of my favorite things about the series. Ruben and Benny, Caz and Thessa… I love them all so much.
More secrets, betrayals and the revelations become even more explosive, all while Rose is thrown into yet another set of Trials. Yes, she is very much over them by now.
What I especially loved was how strong and secure Kyor and Rose are together. There are no unnecessary insecurities between them, even with secrets still left unspoken. And Kyor’s emotional growth, his vulnerability, and the sheer depth of his devotion to Rose?
Absolutely everything. He remains firmly—and possibly permanently—in the top spot on my Book Boyfriend list.
Somehow, every book in this series manages to raise the stakes and get even better. How is that even possible?
After devouring this absolute mammoth in record time, I’m going to sit back and savor the audiobook the moment it comes out.
Infinity stars for the whole series and that is a first for me!
Favorite quote: „Don’t be a Jonas!“
Favorite picture: Elska as a pony! Let us talk about braided fur….
Tearjerker: I won‘t tell, if you read it, you’ll know it!
Straight into the next Trial, poor Rose! She truly cannot catch a break.
I absolutely adore Fen and his sarcasm, and this cast continues to be one of my favorite things about the series. Ruben and Benny, Caz and Thessa… I love them all so much.
More secrets, betrayals and the revelations become even more explosive, all while Rose is thrown into yet another set of Trials. Yes, she is very much over them by now.
What I especially loved was how strong and secure Kyor and Rose are together. There are no unnecessary insecurities between them, even with secrets still left unspoken. And Kyor’s emotional growth, his vulnerability, and the sheer depth of his devotion to Rose?
Absolutely everything. He remains firmly—and possibly permanently—in the top spot on my Book Boyfriend list.
Somehow, every book in this series manages to raise the stakes and get even better. How is that even possible?
After devouring this absolute mammoth in record time, I’m going to sit back and savor the audiobook the moment it comes out.
Infinity stars for the whole series and that is a first for me!
Favorite quote: „Don’t be a Jonas!“
Favorite picture: Elska as a pony! Let us talk about braided fur….
Tearjerker: I won‘t tell, if you read it, you’ll know it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I should have known a man who kissed like a storm would one day force me to rage like one too."
Blood of Truth and Traitors by Aria Ashbrook is the third book in the Hirathean Path series and we pick up right where the second one ended. I said this with book two and I will say it again: Aria Ashbrook is a genius at developing a whole story that gives us everything we want and need. The series plays out like a movie in the way that they divide the series. In the first book you have a slow burn romance and a plot focus on trials. The second book you have the found family that builds and the epic quest they go on together. The third book we have secrets, betrayals, prophecies and revelations. I do believe this is the more character-driven book out of the series, watching so many of the characters grow and develop both with their magic and their identity. With that being said, this book was still full of action, slow burn romance, and tension and banter. This book made me laugh out loud, kick my feet, bite my lip, and even shed tears. I absolutely love how well-rounded this series and can't wait for the next book.
WHAT TO EXPECT
🖤Enemies to lovers
⚔️Found Family
🖤Prophecies
⚔️Court intrigue
🖤Trials
⚔️Secrets and betrayals
🖤Touch her and 💀
FAVORITE QUOTES
"You're a fucking nightmare.”
“Oh, undoubtedly, but I'm your fucking nightmare. And you're mine.”
“We. Two simple letters placed together that mean the world when uttered by him.”
“All he does is kiss me. Kisses me in a way that makes everything we’ve ever been through together feel worth it.”
Pre-Read Review: Thank you Aria Ashbrook for the opportunity to read an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my days...
I'm sorry, WHAT?
Aria Ashbrook, I need words with you after this.
I have just received the audio ALC of this book, and i'm going back to experience it all again. I need my head testing. Because, you know, Anthony Palmini...
I'm sorry, WHAT?
Aria Ashbrook, I need words with you after this.
I have just received the audio ALC of this book, and i'm going back to experience it all again. I need my head testing. Because, you know, Anthony Palmini...
Review of advance copy received from Author
New world, new rules and the same great characters. Blood of truth and traitors is the third book in the Hirathean path series. This is a continuous story and they need to be read in order. If you like romantsy, secrets, twists and strong female characters this is for you. So in this book we learn a lot! It will hold you in a vice and spit you back out waiting for the final book (I think. It’s due out February 2027).
Rose is on a mission to find the truth about herself and her family. She’s come a long way so far but the journey isn’t over. She needs to save her family and learn who she can trust. She’s about to learn about her heritage and it’s more than just Lady Rose… she’s about to be become the person we knew she was on the inside.
We’ve discovered a new world and now we get to explore it. There will be questions, new friends, new enemies and more secrets unfolding.
Kyro is hiding a secret but so is Rose. Can their relationship progress or will it all be too much?
The crew do what they do best in this book and it’s nice to see them true to themselves but still navigate a new setting.
There will be upset, there will be pain but with every step we come closer to something epic.
Another great journey for Rose. 5*s.
Rose is on a mission to find the truth about herself and her family. She’s come a long way so far but the journey isn’t over. She needs to save her family and learn who she can trust. She’s about to learn about her heritage and it’s more than just Lady Rose… she’s about to be become the person we knew she was on the inside.
We’ve discovered a new world and now we get to explore it. There will be questions, new friends, new enemies and more secrets unfolding.
Kyro is hiding a secret but so is Rose. Can their relationship progress or will it all be too much?
The crew do what they do best in this book and it’s nice to see them true to themselves but still navigate a new setting.
There will be upset, there will be pain but with every step we come closer to something epic.
Another great journey for Rose. 5*s.
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOWZA! WTF! Frek! How the heck am I supposed to function? I've just been hammered, emotionally, from all sides! I bawled like a baby, I stared into space in disbelief, unable to gather any thoughts from the onslaught of, well, the entire book! But the ride, OMG splendid! Tears and all! This dream writing combo, 2 exceptionally talented authors, never slacked for a second. They spared NOTHING! They took my emotions and made mincemeat of them. Some unforgettable and some unforgivable events shattered me, completely. But I forgave them... eventually, only because of their addictive, extraordinary and 100% genius penmanship and their sublime storytelling. This series, book by book, one ups the previous book in compulsive reading, I can only come to the conclusion that Aria Ashbrook has enchanted the pages and left me bleeding in it's it's wake! I'm not sure I'll ever be ok again.... I'm desperate for the final book to put my shattered heart together.
This title carries more than words....Blood, there's an abundance of blood of the physical kind and blood of heritage; Truth, many truths are delivered with knife edge precision; Traitors, hell, they lurk in plain sight, which makes them even more of a danger. Soooo many questions answered, with even more opening up, magnificent! And the way the gods are manipulating behind the scenes is gobsmack awesome. The entire read caught hold of me and made mincemeat out of me!
Rose and her friends had barely crossed into Issen before they're herded by Ms B with an itch herself, thrown in a dungeon and forced into yet another trial. And all hell breaks out. Hidden and not so hidden agendas rear their head, the fight is real, external and internal, as so much comes to light. The vivid imagery describes perfectly what Rose's emotional state is, at every stage, right from the beginning. The world building crafting is majestically phenomenal. This is a read where your emotions will be on the precipice, ready to fall apart, where they'll shatter into a zillion pieces. Mine did, numerous times... Everything this talented writing duo pens is relevant, how they connect the dots is exemplary, even the ramblings of an old man has merit, which honestly, was yet another gobsmack moment when that dot was lined up. Just when I thought the twists had levelled out, the authors took a giant paddle and stirred the pot vigorously! And, I'm absolutely certain, Aria Ashbrook doused this book and series with Robbard's or some other tincture, how else can I explain my compulsive addiction?
The control these authors have, over me, over the narrative, is unsurpassed glorious! Vivid....magical... The uncovering of just how much the gods and goddesses are implicated in the story, totally riveting. As is Rose's fight to control her powers and then Kyor lends a hand, or a spark... well... hells bells, THAT particular scene was electrifying, IN EVERY SENSE OF THE WORD! Which was as hot as it was comical as Rose fought for control.... I doubt I could love 2 characters more Rose and Kyor, tormented by actions, agonising over secrets, every thought, every deed is palpable. All the uncertainty and anguish Rose experiences is so credible, brilliantly penned by the authors, which 'allows' the reader to feel her every turmoil. And Kyor's. Stars above, Kyor's love for Rose is all encompassing, he'd do anything for her, even something so drastic, I unravelled like a ball of wool. You know the saying, 'I'll do anything for love'? Well f****ck! Kyor shows how true a statement that is....
I thought this book couldn't get more intense, heartbreaking or emotionally devastating, but I was wrong, so very wrong... From chapter 42 onwards, hold onto your hats, the whirlwind escalates, the authors upped the stakes, upped the emotional turmoil, I was gasping in disbelief, I was sobbing my heart out, I was trying to pick up the tattered pieces of my soul... As I trying to read through a curtain of tears, in utter shock, I yelled, WTF? WHAT! THE! F#CK?YOU DIDN'T JUST DO THAT???? as though Aria Ashbrook were besides me. My heck, the emotional onslaught! I have serious heart palpitations! The more I was reading, the more I was crying. This was pure EVIL! I had to collect myself before I could carry on reading. As if chapter 43 and 44 wasn't enough.... just as I gather myself, I was hit again and again with the devastating beauty of the feelings, the prose decimating me.
I can't shout it enough, this was a truly magnificent a read! My lordie, I adore the characters, I adore Magnus! He's everything a king should be, humble, calm, generous. Fen, what a hoot! His snark and his dedication to Rose is beautiful, supportive and comical. And his advice sage...Reuben, oh my heck is he an exceptional character, I love everything about him. He's a terrific friend, he's genuine, he the quintessential nice guy, everyone he meets likes him. It's as Benny said, 'You met him, you loved him. It was that simple,’ And Benny, hell, I adore Benny, The dynamics between Reuben and Benny is to die for gorgeous, the banter gorgeous, the love exquisite.
This read was emotional devastation of the best and worst kind, drawing out the vulnerability in every character, I feel it in my bone marrow. This read destroyed me. Completely. I bled, my heart and soul wept. Choices. This read is about the cruelty of choices, heart breaking choices. Secrets buried so deeply, revelaions exposed, so raw, that, when they surface, they shatter my very core. The authors titillated me by throwing carrots I was unable to get to, opening up SO many theories milling about my head!
The entire world building, from the start is outstanding. Vivid, descriptive, immersive. The plot and characters are progressively more and more enticing and my golly, the depth to it all is breathtakingly impressive. The truism of emotions, so realistically crafted, exceptionally skillfully, I felt every single event, every single blow! Emotional, impactful, the pacing is exceptional,and world building is off the charts brilliant. I LIVED this world, I BREATHED these characters, I DEVOURED it all like an addict on crack. I absolutely adore the way the authors weave the fabric of their tale, to form a clear image, I'm like a sponge absorbing all of it as it saturates deep within me. This is one of those reads that I could barely breathe, one of those reads that leaves me DESPERATE for more! Not a blade of grass, or rather, not a shard of ice escaped being noticed. I saw it and felt it all. The twists, hell, there were so many twists my jaw was constantly gaping! And that ending? I'll emulate what Magnus acknowledged, that was a 'mindf*ck', this book was a 'mindf*ck'!!! And I can't wait for more!
On a final note, the stunning audio of Amanda Leigh Cobb and Anthony Palmini's narration makes my toes curl, my lady part clench and my my heart rate soaring through the roof!
This title carries more than words....Blood, there's an abundance of blood of the physical kind and blood of heritage; Truth, many truths are delivered with knife edge precision; Traitors, hell, they lurk in plain sight, which makes them even more of a danger. Soooo many questions answered, with even more opening up, magnificent! And the way the gods are manipulating behind the scenes is gobsmack awesome. The entire read caught hold of me and made mincemeat out of me!
Rose and her friends had barely crossed into Issen before they're herded by Ms B with an itch herself, thrown in a dungeon and forced into yet another trial. And all hell breaks out. Hidden and not so hidden agendas rear their head, the fight is real, external and internal, as so much comes to light. The vivid imagery describes perfectly what Rose's emotional state is, at every stage, right from the beginning. The world building crafting is majestically phenomenal. This is a read where your emotions will be on the precipice, ready to fall apart, where they'll shatter into a zillion pieces. Mine did, numerous times... Everything this talented writing duo pens is relevant, how they connect the dots is exemplary, even the ramblings of an old man has merit, which honestly, was yet another gobsmack moment when that dot was lined up. Just when I thought the twists had levelled out, the authors took a giant paddle and stirred the pot vigorously! And, I'm absolutely certain, Aria Ashbrook doused this book and series with Robbard's or some other tincture, how else can I explain my compulsive addiction?
The control these authors have, over me, over the narrative, is unsurpassed glorious! Vivid....magical... The uncovering of just how much the gods and goddesses are implicated in the story, totally riveting. As is Rose's fight to control her powers and then Kyor lends a hand, or a spark... well... hells bells, THAT particular scene was electrifying, IN EVERY SENSE OF THE WORD! Which was as hot as it was comical as Rose fought for control.... I doubt I could love 2 characters more Rose and Kyor, tormented by actions, agonising over secrets, every thought, every deed is palpable. All the uncertainty and anguish Rose experiences is so credible, brilliantly penned by the authors, which 'allows' the reader to feel her every turmoil. And Kyor's. Stars above, Kyor's love for Rose is all encompassing, he'd do anything for her, even something so drastic, I unravelled like a ball of wool. You know the saying, 'I'll do anything for love'? Well f****ck! Kyor shows how true a statement that is....
I thought this book couldn't get more intense, heartbreaking or emotionally devastating, but I was wrong, so very wrong... From chapter 42 onwards, hold onto your hats, the whirlwind escalates, the authors upped the stakes, upped the emotional turmoil, I was gasping in disbelief, I was sobbing my heart out, I was trying to pick up the tattered pieces of my soul... As I trying to read through a curtain of tears, in utter shock, I yelled, WTF? WHAT! THE! F#CK?YOU DIDN'T JUST DO THAT???? as though Aria Ashbrook were besides me. My heck, the emotional onslaught! I have serious heart palpitations! The more I was reading, the more I was crying. This was pure EVIL! I had to collect myself before I could carry on reading. As if chapter 43 and 44 wasn't enough.... just as I gather myself, I was hit again and again with the devastating beauty of the feelings, the prose decimating me.
I can't shout it enough, this was a truly magnificent a read! My lordie, I adore the characters, I adore Magnus! He's everything a king should be, humble, calm, generous. Fen, what a hoot! His snark and his dedication to Rose is beautiful, supportive and comical. And his advice sage...Reuben, oh my heck is he an exceptional character, I love everything about him. He's a terrific friend, he's genuine, he the quintessential nice guy, everyone he meets likes him. It's as Benny said, 'You met him, you loved him. It was that simple,’ And Benny, hell, I adore Benny, The dynamics between Reuben and Benny is to die for gorgeous, the banter gorgeous, the love exquisite.
This read was emotional devastation of the best and worst kind, drawing out the vulnerability in every character, I feel it in my bone marrow. This read destroyed me. Completely. I bled, my heart and soul wept. Choices. This read is about the cruelty of choices, heart breaking choices. Secrets buried so deeply, revelaions exposed, so raw, that, when they surface, they shatter my very core. The authors titillated me by throwing carrots I was unable to get to, opening up SO many theories milling about my head!
The entire world building, from the start is outstanding. Vivid, descriptive, immersive. The plot and characters are progressively more and more enticing and my golly, the depth to it all is breathtakingly impressive. The truism of emotions, so realistically crafted, exceptionally skillfully, I felt every single event, every single blow! Emotional, impactful, the pacing is exceptional,and world building is off the charts brilliant. I LIVED this world, I BREATHED these characters, I DEVOURED it all like an addict on crack. I absolutely adore the way the authors weave the fabric of their tale, to form a clear image, I'm like a sponge absorbing all of it as it saturates deep within me. This is one of those reads that I could barely breathe, one of those reads that leaves me DESPERATE for more! Not a blade of grass, or rather, not a shard of ice escaped being noticed. I saw it and felt it all. The twists, hell, there were so many twists my jaw was constantly gaping! And that ending? I'll emulate what Magnus acknowledged, that was a 'mindf*ck', this book was a 'mindf*ck'!!! And I can't wait for more!
On a final note, the stunning audio of Amanda Leigh Cobb and Anthony Palmini's narration makes my toes curl, my lady part clench and my my heart rate soaring through the roof!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every book in this series continues to deliver! This time, we get to explore another fascinating part of this world alongside the Issen. I especially enjoyed learning more about their ice magic and watching the magic system continue to expand.
The ever-growing cast adds so much new interest and intrigue with each installment, while returning characters are given even more room to develop. Rose and Kyor remain on a seemingly endless journey of growth and discovery, and I love seeing how much they change with every book.
And the supporting men? I somehow love them more every time. Benny and Reuben are absolute treasures, and I desperately wish they were my friends.
Unfortunately, Aria Ashbrook returned to their book-one ways and delivered some serious emotional trauma. I genuinely do not know if I can forgive them this time.
I have no idea how this series keeps up its momentum, but it consistently delivers. Now I’ll be over here impatiently needing book four!
The ever-growing cast adds so much new interest and intrigue with each installment, while returning characters are given even more room to develop. Rose and Kyor remain on a seemingly endless journey of growth and discovery, and I love seeing how much they change with every book.
And the supporting men? I somehow love them more every time. Benny and Reuben are absolute treasures, and I desperately wish they were my friends.
Unfortunately, Aria Ashbrook returned to their book-one ways and delivered some serious emotional trauma. I genuinely do not know if I can forgive them this time.
I have no idea how this series keeps up its momentum, but it consistently delivers. Now I’ll be over here impatiently needing book four!
September 28, 2026
3.5 stars. The first half was extremely slow paced and repetitive. Things do pick up the last 40% but I still haven't decided if the revelations were worth the wait.
I will still continue the series.
I will still continue the series.
September 23, 2026
I am so upset to say this book was terrible. I love the MMC but the FMC someone get her out of here asap. This series had so much potential but honestly just fell flat. Nothing happens and then at the very end something "big" happens but not really. Ugh so upset over how bad this was.... It might've put me in a reading slump.
September 4, 2026
Spoiler Free 🚨
Where to even begin here…
First, thank you Aria for this ARC.
SECOND WHAT THE HELL ??
Aria Ashbrook you’ve done it again.
Do you know how hard it is to cry on Lexapro???
I could not STOP.
My heart was obliterated during the third instalment of The Hirathean Path series.
Rose and Kyor, they just get stronger and stronger each book. The character development of not just our FMC and MMC but of our supporting characters?? She has really set the stage here for an epic epic epic finale.
There is still so much to be unraveled and learned and so many truths revealed in this book!!
I haven’t felt so connected to so many of the characters at once without having duel or multiple POVs but she’s really got me invested in everyone’s development.
I cannot WAIT for the next book.
Where to even begin here…
First, thank you Aria for this ARC.
SECOND WHAT THE HELL ??
Aria Ashbrook you’ve done it again.
Do you know how hard it is to cry on Lexapro???
I could not STOP.
My heart was obliterated during the third instalment of The Hirathean Path series.
Rose and Kyor, they just get stronger and stronger each book. The character development of not just our FMC and MMC but of our supporting characters?? She has really set the stage here for an epic epic epic finale.
There is still so much to be unraveled and learned and so many truths revealed in this book!!
I haven’t felt so connected to so many of the characters at once without having duel or multiple POVs but she’s really got me invested in everyone’s development.
I cannot WAIT for the next book.
September 21, 2026
This is the 3rd book in the Hirathean Path series, and it's true what everyone is saying, that this series just gets better and better and BETTER! (Though, each book on its own is individually AMAZING as well!) Each book in this series, it's own right, is just SO good, and even with the same characters, you keep finding out new things, and every book just has you HOOKED, because you just.... NEED. TO. KNOW... you know?
But what I love most, is that you can tell that this series was planned out SO WELL ahead of time. Because throughout all the books, there are these details weaved through that connect all the books together, and really make the series cohesive.
I also wanted to mention that the audio versions of this series are SPECTACULAR, Amanda and Anthony are truly incredible! I highly recommend listening to the audiobook if you can! They really elevate the story to a whole new level!
Anyway, I think this was my favourite book in the series so far. I did NOT expect it to hit me as hard as it did. Get those tissues ready!! Whew.
I cannot wait for book 4 to be released!!! It's going to be EPIC!!
But what I love most, is that you can tell that this series was planned out SO WELL ahead of time. Because throughout all the books, there are these details weaved through that connect all the books together, and really make the series cohesive.
I also wanted to mention that the audio versions of this series are SPECTACULAR, Amanda and Anthony are truly incredible! I highly recommend listening to the audiobook if you can! They really elevate the story to a whole new level!
Anyway, I think this was my favourite book in the series so far. I did NOT expect it to hit me as hard as it did. Get those tissues ready!! Whew.
I cannot wait for book 4 to be released!!! It's going to be EPIC!!
September 24, 2026
I honestly don’t even know what to say… I’m speechless. So much happened in this book, I feel like I need some time to process it all.
The twists, the reveals, the absolute chaos. I loved every second of it. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, something else happened and left me completely stunned.
And then there was the heartbreak. I’m still not over what happened to one of my favorite characters.
The twists, the reveals, the absolute chaos. I loved every second of it. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, something else happened and left me completely stunned.
And then there was the heartbreak. I’m still not over what happened to one of my favorite characters.
September 24, 2026
ugh
600+ pages of training, I can’t control my magic, training, meditate, can’t control my magic, veil, smut, lies, meditate, smut, still can’t control my magic, blah blah. Book two was traveling through the woods. Book 3 is in a city with nothing happening. I skimmed most of it because it was boring and so repetitive. Also the death was ridiculous. Did nothing for the plot and was literally just there for a shock factor. I’m tired of terrible romantasy.
600+ pages of training, I can’t control my magic, training, meditate, can’t control my magic, veil, smut, lies, meditate, smut, still can’t control my magic, blah blah. Book two was traveling through the woods. Book 3 is in a city with nothing happening. I skimmed most of it because it was boring and so repetitive. Also the death was ridiculous. Did nothing for the plot and was literally just there for a shock factor. I’m tired of terrible romantasy.
August 26, 2026
I received this arc as an eArc from the author Aria Ashbrook and writing this of my own volition.
I honestly don’t know how this series is in Book 3 and the booktok/bookstagram community is not going delulu!
It’s an absolute underrated series.
The characters are so interesting and fun and have a different dynamic in and around each other. Whereas in some books Im like god this character is insufferable-what is the point here. I actually liked all the main characters and supporting characters. The journey the author takes you on for each character keeps the story interesting. The setting changed in each book.
Book 3 took us to the Issen so that Rose could learn how to use her power and to try and find a way to help her brother.
I felt like Book 1 was unexpectedly fun, Book 2 was like okay, this story is fantastic and Book 3 was just one WTF moment after another, but in a good way. I laughed, I cried, I yelled. Aria I will never forgive you and you know what you did. Then the cliff hangar at the ending left me wanting the next book right meow!
I absolutely love this story. Thankyou for allowing me to read and review this early.
I honestly don’t know how this series is in Book 3 and the booktok/bookstagram community is not going delulu!
It’s an absolute underrated series.
The characters are so interesting and fun and have a different dynamic in and around each other. Whereas in some books Im like god this character is insufferable-what is the point here. I actually liked all the main characters and supporting characters. The journey the author takes you on for each character keeps the story interesting. The setting changed in each book.
Book 3 took us to the Issen so that Rose could learn how to use her power and to try and find a way to help her brother.
I felt like Book 1 was unexpectedly fun, Book 2 was like okay, this story is fantastic and Book 3 was just one WTF moment after another, but in a good way. I laughed, I cried, I yelled. Aria I will never forgive you and you know what you did. Then the cliff hangar at the ending left me wanting the next book right meow!
I absolutely love this story. Thankyou for allowing me to read and review this early.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tranquility.
That is the feeling I get whenever I return to this series. I am so in love with this world, these characters, and Rose's journey!
Blood of Truth and Traitors picks up where the previous book left off, taking Rose and her friends into the hidden world of the Issen, a people feared across the realms, surrounded by secrets, history, and a completely different understanding of magic. With Rose's ice magic becoming more powerful and harder to control, she has to learn to master it before it hurts someone.
Rose in this book? I loved her.
She is still stubborn, fierce, and determined, but we also get to see her exhausted, vulnerable, frustrated, and unsure of herself. She learns, she fails, she tries again, and she keeps going. Watching her discover more about herself, her powers, and where she belongs was so good.
And Kyor. These two are everything. The slow burn, the protectiveness, the possessiveness, the tension, the way they always have each other's backs. Kyor being torn between duty, vows, and Rose had me in a pretty tight chokehold.
"Because together we are and always will be stronger. I trust you, Rose Kultavaris. Always."
Their dire wolves are still so ridiculously cool.
I also loved the found family in this installment.
Of course this couldn't have been read without tears! Oh, the heartbreak... I'm still not over this.
The Veil, the secrets, the magic, the questions about Rose's past and her place in this world... I loved watching everything unfold. The storytelling is wicked, the characters are fantastic, and the twists kept me completely hooked.
And that ending left me completely speechless. My jaw was on the floor, and I genuinely cannot wait to see what comes next.
Goosebumps all over...
That is the feeling I get whenever I return to this series. I am so in love with this world, these characters, and Rose's journey!
Blood of Truth and Traitors picks up where the previous book left off, taking Rose and her friends into the hidden world of the Issen, a people feared across the realms, surrounded by secrets, history, and a completely different understanding of magic. With Rose's ice magic becoming more powerful and harder to control, she has to learn to master it before it hurts someone.
Rose in this book? I loved her.
She is still stubborn, fierce, and determined, but we also get to see her exhausted, vulnerable, frustrated, and unsure of herself. She learns, she fails, she tries again, and she keeps going. Watching her discover more about herself, her powers, and where she belongs was so good.
And Kyor. These two are everything. The slow burn, the protectiveness, the possessiveness, the tension, the way they always have each other's backs. Kyor being torn between duty, vows, and Rose had me in a pretty tight chokehold.
"Because together we are and always will be stronger. I trust you, Rose Kultavaris. Always."
Their dire wolves are still so ridiculously cool.
I also loved the found family in this installment.
Of course this couldn't have been read without tears! Oh, the heartbreak... I'm still not over this.
The Veil, the secrets, the magic, the questions about Rose's past and her place in this world... I loved watching everything unfold. The storytelling is wicked, the characters are fantastic, and the twists kept me completely hooked.
And that ending left me completely speechless. My jaw was on the floor, and I genuinely cannot wait to see what comes next.
Goosebumps all over...
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this book and genuinely just sat there because what the actual heck did Aria Ashbrook just put me through??? I thought I was emotionally prepared after the last book. I was, in fact, NOT.
Rose and Kyor had me on an emotional roller coaster from beginning to end. Watching Rose dig deeper into her heritage and face everything being thrown at her had me so attached to her. And Kyor??? His vulnerability, devotion, and the way their relationship continues to grow beyond just the tension made me love them even more.
One minute I was eating up a sweet Rose and Kyor moment or laughing with the found family, and the next I was getting emotionally DESTROYED. The grief, revelations, betrayals, and sheer amount of shit Rose goes through??? I was unwell.
And then THAT CLIFFHANGER. AGAIN?! The final stretch was absolutely insane. Every time I thought we were done, Aria said actually, one more thing.
Emotional damage, trust issues, and an immediate need for book four.
Rose and Kyor had me on an emotional roller coaster from beginning to end. Watching Rose dig deeper into her heritage and face everything being thrown at her had me so attached to her. And Kyor??? His vulnerability, devotion, and the way their relationship continues to grow beyond just the tension made me love them even more.
One minute I was eating up a sweet Rose and Kyor moment or laughing with the found family, and the next I was getting emotionally DESTROYED. The grief, revelations, betrayals, and sheer amount of shit Rose goes through??? I was unwell.
And then THAT CLIFFHANGER. AGAIN?! The final stretch was absolutely insane. Every time I thought we were done, Aria said actually, one more thing.
Emotional damage, trust issues, and an immediate need for book four.
August 30, 2026
Arc review and I cannot be more thankful for authors for making me a family member!🫶❤️
5⭐️? more like thousand ⭐️ !!
This series keeps getting better and better with every chapter. I was squealing, I was laughing, I was frustrated, but most of all I had such a heartbreak that I didn’t had in a very long time. 🥲 I am invested in every character and their storylines, because there is no side characters for me here - they all are perfect in their own way.
The pacing, how it is written and twists and turns that had me on my last nerves…. Aria Ashbrook - how dare you to take my soul so willingly and just chew on it with every sentence that you have written??
One of top reads of this year! 👑🔥
5⭐️? more like thousand ⭐️ !!
This series keeps getting better and better with every chapter. I was squealing, I was laughing, I was frustrated, but most of all I had such a heartbreak that I didn’t had in a very long time. 🥲 I am invested in every character and their storylines, because there is no side characters for me here - they all are perfect in their own way.
The pacing, how it is written and twists and turns that had me on my last nerves…. Aria Ashbrook - how dare you to take my soul so willingly and just chew on it with every sentence that you have written??
One of top reads of this year! 👑🔥
September 27, 2026
Some thoughts after finishing…
Rose is an idiot, and with her bazillion kinds of gods-gifted magic, she also reeks of Mary Sue. I found her interesting and far more endearing in books 1 and 2. In book 3 I just found her annoying, as well as predictable, repetitive and completely inept.
Kyor exists here to growl jealously, and occasionally fire off lightning blasts so we don’t forget he’s a badass.
Yet another pointless supporting character death by offing Ruben. Methinks one of the authors has a thing for Game of Thrones style storytelling, or possibly they hate their characters.
All the spice felt inauthentic, so it gave me gross vibes and I ended up skipping most of it. Usually I love spice, but something was off for me here.
THIS BOOK WINS MY AWARD FOR MOST BORING ROMANTASY OF 2026! An entire book of magical training the main female character fails at, isn’t a good time, in my opinion. I’m just bummed I paid money to be disappointed. ☹️ I feel this series should have been two books, three at most, and I’m definitely not hanging around for book four.
Rose is an idiot, and with her bazillion kinds of gods-gifted magic, she also reeks of Mary Sue. I found her interesting and far more endearing in books 1 and 2. In book 3 I just found her annoying, as well as predictable, repetitive and completely inept.
Kyor exists here to growl jealously, and occasionally fire off lightning blasts so we don’t forget he’s a badass.
Yet another pointless supporting character death by offing Ruben. Methinks one of the authors has a thing for Game of Thrones style storytelling, or possibly they hate their characters.
All the spice felt inauthentic, so it gave me gross vibes and I ended up skipping most of it. Usually I love spice, but something was off for me here.
THIS BOOK WINS MY AWARD FOR MOST BORING ROMANTASY OF 2026! An entire book of magical training the main female character fails at, isn’t a good time, in my opinion. I’m just bummed I paid money to be disappointed. ☹️ I feel this series should have been two books, three at most, and I’m definitely not hanging around for book four.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2026
This series pulled me in immediately! The first two books were SIX STARS and the third didn’t disappoint! It’s been a long time since a fantasy series had me this invested.
Thank you so much for showing me to read this before release day! I loved every page and will be purchasing a physical copy and the audio as soon as it’s released!
If you’re looking for a fantasy series that will give you everything you’re looking for- this is the one!
Thank you so much for showing me to read this before release day! I loved every page and will be purchasing a physical copy and the audio as soon as it’s released!
If you’re looking for a fantasy series that will give you everything you’re looking for- this is the one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 🌟
This book was a whirlwind of emotions. This book has short, bingeable chapters and will get you out of a reading slump. There are insane and unexpected reveals. You will gasp, cry and laugh.
Rose Kultavaris remains one of my favourite female characters of all time in romantasy! I love how calculated and strategic she is, never taking anything at face value. She makes decisions based on logic and reasoning, whilst also balancing her friendships and her relationship with Kyor. Her character is extremely realistic, and I was really able to identify with the way she thinks. For instance, she has suspicions about certain people, which translated into me being suspicious of those people too.
Every character in this book is multi-layered!
Kyor is a very interesting character to me. We learn more about him and how he navigates his emotions, which is often overlooked in this genre (ie: a man showing his emotions). I do believe that he complements Rose's character well. With him, she is able to show her more nurturing and considerate side. He's also full of one-liner comebacks. He is possessive, slightly bad-tempered and constantly jealous, all whilst still allowing Rose to make her own decisions independent of him.
Found Family
The found family is why I read this series. Every single member of this group is fully developed and has their own distinct personality. Everyone is so multi-layered and carries so much weight and trauma. It is not just Rose or Kyor who have experienced so much. I also love our resident sassy wolf! His trachea obsession is hilarious, but he's also very wise.
Realistic characters
The so-called "villains" in this book all have their reasons for being flawed. It is hard not to feel for them too. I also appreciated that the authors portrayed grief non-linearly. Everyone handles it so differently, and the cast of characters reflected this.
💬 Quotes
🎧 Audiobook
I haven't listened to this on audio yet, but I have the ALC and will be listening to it soon. As for the series as a whole (I listened to Book 1 & 2), Anthony Palmini and Amanda Leigh Cobb have delivered the duet narration brilliantly. Their accent work for the Issen, the wolves, and for every single character was so distinct that it felt like a film playing in my head. I cannot recommend the audio format highly enough.
🩷 Tropes:
🏹 Found family
🔥 Feminine rage / strong FMC
🖤 Possessive, jealous MMC
🐺 Bonded direwolves / telepathy
🩹 Hurt x comfort
👑 Court politics & royals
🎭 Hidden identity
💔 Grief & trauma rep / emotional damage
🌙 Gods & celestials
🏹 Trainer / trainee
☠️ Touch her and 💀
🗡️ Trials
🌶️ Spice:
Open door — 3/5 series.
Recommendation:
If you loved Web of Vows and Vengeance, you will not be disappointed by Book 3. If you loved the vibes of Fourth Wing and Starside, you will love this! Best found family.
Thank you, Aria Ashbrook, for the physical ARC, the e-ARC, and the ALC. I cannot wait for Truth of Fate and Destiny.
This book was a whirlwind of emotions. This book has short, bingeable chapters and will get you out of a reading slump. There are insane and unexpected reveals. You will gasp, cry and laugh.
Rose Kultavaris remains one of my favourite female characters of all time in romantasy! I love how calculated and strategic she is, never taking anything at face value. She makes decisions based on logic and reasoning, whilst also balancing her friendships and her relationship with Kyor. Her character is extremely realistic, and I was really able to identify with the way she thinks. For instance, she has suspicions about certain people, which translated into me being suspicious of those people too.
Every character in this book is multi-layered!
Kyor is a very interesting character to me. We learn more about him and how he navigates his emotions, which is often overlooked in this genre (ie: a man showing his emotions). I do believe that he complements Rose's character well. With him, she is able to show her more nurturing and considerate side. He's also full of one-liner comebacks. He is possessive, slightly bad-tempered and constantly jealous, all whilst still allowing Rose to make her own decisions independent of him.
Found Family
The found family is why I read this series. Every single member of this group is fully developed and has their own distinct personality. Everyone is so multi-layered and carries so much weight and trauma. It is not just Rose or Kyor who have experienced so much. I also love our resident sassy wolf! His trachea obsession is hilarious, but he's also very wise.
Realistic characters
The so-called "villains" in this book all have their reasons for being flawed. It is hard not to feel for them too. I also appreciated that the authors portrayed grief non-linearly. Everyone handles it so differently, and the cast of characters reflected this.
💬 Quotes
"I should have known a man who kissed like a storm would one day force me to rage like one too."
🎧 Audiobook
I haven't listened to this on audio yet, but I have the ALC and will be listening to it soon. As for the series as a whole (I listened to Book 1 & 2), Anthony Palmini and Amanda Leigh Cobb have delivered the duet narration brilliantly. Their accent work for the Issen, the wolves, and for every single character was so distinct that it felt like a film playing in my head. I cannot recommend the audio format highly enough.
🩷 Tropes:
🏹 Found family
🔥 Feminine rage / strong FMC
🖤 Possessive, jealous MMC
🐺 Bonded direwolves / telepathy
🩹 Hurt x comfort
👑 Court politics & royals
🎭 Hidden identity
💔 Grief & trauma rep / emotional damage
🌙 Gods & celestials
🏹 Trainer / trainee
☠️ Touch her and 💀
🗡️ Trials
🌶️ Spice:
Open door — 3/5 series.
Recommendation:
If you loved Web of Vows and Vengeance, you will not be disappointed by Book 3. If you loved the vibes of Fourth Wing and Starside, you will love this! Best found family.
Thank you, Aria Ashbrook, for the physical ARC, the e-ARC, and the ALC. I cannot wait for Truth of Fate and Destiny.
September 22, 2026
Thank you to Aria Ashbrook for entrusting me with an early gifted egalley and ALC!
Blood of Truth and Traitors by Aria Ashbrook
The Hirathean Path book 3
Duet narration by Amanda Leigh Cobb and Anthony Palmini
Amanda and Anthony are just amazing in these books! The duet narration is delightful and they do such a great job with the different character voices! They bring all the emotion that is needed for these stories and I had such a good time with them! Audio note: My brain needs faster speeds for audio and this narration/recording sounded great at higher speeds.
Found family
So many secrets
Brooding royal MMC with lighting and storm magic
Bonded dire wolves
Training scenes
Touch her and find out
Political intrigue
Meddling gods
Ahhhhh the authors of Aria Ashbrook did it again. That ending! I need the next book! The stakes are rising even more and the emotions were all over the place! We learned a lot and the so did our characters. I so love this found family and I just want to hug them all with all they are going through. So yeah. I'm going to go read a cozy book to help me move on from staring at the wall after this ending! Can't wait for book 4!!
Blood of Truth and Traitors by Aria Ashbrook
The Hirathean Path book 3
Duet narration by Amanda Leigh Cobb and Anthony Palmini
Amanda and Anthony are just amazing in these books! The duet narration is delightful and they do such a great job with the different character voices! They bring all the emotion that is needed for these stories and I had such a good time with them! Audio note: My brain needs faster speeds for audio and this narration/recording sounded great at higher speeds.
Found family
So many secrets
Brooding royal MMC with lighting and storm magic
Bonded dire wolves
Training scenes
Touch her and find out
Political intrigue
Meddling gods
Ahhhhh the authors of Aria Ashbrook did it again. That ending! I need the next book! The stakes are rising even more and the emotions were all over the place! We learned a lot and the so did our characters. I so love this found family and I just want to hug them all with all they are going through. So yeah. I'm going to go read a cozy book to help me move on from staring at the wall after this ending! Can't wait for book 4!!
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