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The Triempery Revelations #6
The Rill Lord
The final battle is here.
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The Wall has been destroyed--and magically restored--by Dorilian Sordaneon. Instead of a hero's return to Prince Handurin's army, the Kheld and Esseran troops are mutinous, fearing Dorilian’s newly revealed powers. The rift allows the sorcerer Nammuor to spring a deadly trap.
When Handurin and Dorilian finally engage with Nammuor’s sorcery, the full powers of both sides are revealed, unleashing both desperation and cataclysm.
--------
The Wall has been destroyed--and magically restored--by Dorilian Sordaneon. Instead of a hero's return to Prince Handurin's army, the Kheld and Esseran troops are mutinous, fearing Dorilian’s newly revealed powers. The rift allows the sorcerer Nammuor to spring a deadly trap.
When Handurin and Dorilian finally engage with Nammuor’s sorcery, the full powers of both sides are revealed, unleashing both desperation and cataclysm.
498 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2026
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April 2, 2026The peak moment of confrontation resolves, with blood and battle and catastrophic impacts that will change the World forever, no matter the outcome at the finish.
In the final volume of the Triempery Revelations, the focus intensifies on the central characters - with stakes never higher, and the Leur's gift to the world riding on - literally - thin ice. This story evolves and reaches crescendo with red hot passion and an ice cold winter campaign, at frightening stakes and with graphic clashes of magic and power unleashed, fit to tear the world..
A solid conclusion, with some stunning surprises at the finish - if you have not given this series a whirl, take the chance. It is beautifully crafted, from start to finish, with more depth and focus than many works of fantasy achieve.
I will be eager to see where L. L. Stephens takes her talent for storytelling next.
In the final volume of the Triempery Revelations, the focus intensifies on the central characters - with stakes never higher, and the Leur's gift to the world riding on - literally - thin ice. This story evolves and reaches crescendo with red hot passion and an ice cold winter campaign, at frightening stakes and with graphic clashes of magic and power unleashed, fit to tear the world..
A solid conclusion, with some stunning surprises at the finish - if you have not given this series a whirl, take the chance. It is beautifully crafted, from start to finish, with more depth and focus than many works of fantasy achieve.
I will be eager to see where L. L. Stephens takes her talent for storytelling next.
May 26, 2026
“We all want to live, That is the legacy of Leur, the fullness of our Creation. That we exist not just for the moment but for a span of time. That we get to fill and define that time. Life is not just a gift, it is our one true coin, ours to hoard or spend as we see fit.”
It's hard trying to discuss things without spoiling but I'll try. The success of this work lies in how perfectly it amalgamates the epic and the mundane. I'll be hard pressed to think of another fantasy series that deals with as much abstract concepts, themes and otherworldly elements as constantly as this does by the very framework of its premise while still anchoring every part of this to the interpersonal affairs of mortals. The Triempery Revelations — a title layered with so many meanings every book entry does it part revealing various layers to;
prophecy, meaning, cognition, consciousness, humanity, godhood, otherworldliness, life, death, legacy, history and lore but most importantly love (familial, romantic, platonic and one that's none of the three and perhaps the strongest of any theme the story conveyed) and perceptions:
"Secrets sheathe swords" a quote anyone who's read the books is very familiar with and did it do a good job of showing that mainly via how it employs perceptions both within the story and to the reader via povs.
In this it becomes obvious perception sheathes secrets, truth, lies and reality itself. The vehicle being the wonderful "human" characters. I've become desensitised to lots of painful things now, it's easy to forget how heartbreak can be experienced via events beyond death or love like friendship. I'm glad this story through its wonderful characters reminded me how possible that is. I'll never forget the characters of Arne, Legon, Aubrey, Stefan, Cullen, Levyathan, Emyli, Marenthro, Sebbord, Pamelia, Jonthan,Robdan, Nammour but most importantly the trio of Marc Federick, Handurin & Dorillian. All wonderful characters; good people, bad people and in between.
I've rambled a lot for what's not even a review but only initial thoughts so I'll wrap it up by giving credit to its creator L. L. Stephens, who not only has one of the most wonderful minds to be able to think of such a tale but is also one of the most skilled writers you'll find. The prose she employs speaks for itself & if you're looking for any evidence then look no further than the quote that opens this review. But more than both aforementioned qualities tho, she's one of the most generous individuals I've been fortunate enough to know in my life. Thank you for this story and all you've done for me personally. I appreciate your being in ways I can't put into words. Thank you.
The coming weeks of my life will be challenging as some of my closest moots here already know but hopefully bolsted by my victory from the challenge, in a month's time I can return with a full review expanding on every one of the themes I mentioned at the start.
It's hard trying to discuss things without spoiling but I'll try. The success of this work lies in how perfectly it amalgamates the epic and the mundane. I'll be hard pressed to think of another fantasy series that deals with as much abstract concepts, themes and otherworldly elements as constantly as this does by the very framework of its premise while still anchoring every part of this to the interpersonal affairs of mortals. The Triempery Revelations — a title layered with so many meanings every book entry does it part revealing various layers to;
prophecy, meaning, cognition, consciousness, humanity, godhood, otherworldliness, life, death, legacy, history and lore but most importantly love (familial, romantic, platonic and one that's none of the three and perhaps the strongest of any theme the story conveyed) and perceptions:
"Secrets sheathe swords" a quote anyone who's read the books is very familiar with and did it do a good job of showing that mainly via how it employs perceptions both within the story and to the reader via povs.
In this it becomes obvious perception sheathes secrets, truth, lies and reality itself. The vehicle being the wonderful "human" characters. I've become desensitised to lots of painful things now, it's easy to forget how heartbreak can be experienced via events beyond death or love like friendship. I'm glad this story through its wonderful characters reminded me how possible that is. I'll never forget the characters of Arne, Legon, Aubrey, Stefan, Cullen, Levyathan, Emyli, Marenthro, Sebbord, Pamelia, Jonthan,Robdan, Nammour but most importantly the trio of Marc Federick, Handurin & Dorillian. All wonderful characters; good people, bad people and in between.
I've rambled a lot for what's not even a review but only initial thoughts so I'll wrap it up by giving credit to its creator L. L. Stephens, who not only has one of the most wonderful minds to be able to think of such a tale but is also one of the most skilled writers you'll find. The prose she employs speaks for itself & if you're looking for any evidence then look no further than the quote that opens this review. But more than both aforementioned qualities tho, she's one of the most generous individuals I've been fortunate enough to know in my life. Thank you for this story and all you've done for me personally. I appreciate your being in ways I can't put into words. Thank you.
The coming weeks of my life will be challenging as some of my closest moots here already know but hopefully bolsted by my victory from the challenge, in a month's time I can return with a full review expanding on every one of the themes I mentioned at the start.
April 28, 2026
Ending books are difficult. It is hard to tie up all the plot threads in a way that satisfies the reader. I am happy to report that L.L. Stevens has done so brilliantly with The Rill Lord.
This entire series is outstanding. It is a blend of science fiction, fantasy, and political intrigue and the author did with style and grace, and a writing style that is unique.
The Rill Lord is the best volume of the series. It is fast-paced, tense, emotional, and often surprising. Nothing happens in this book that the reader didn't have hints about, but the author still had surprises as to how things would happen. They bring the story full circle with the lore and history of the culture, and provides not only a satisfying ending but a promise that the world will continue in a better state than before.
This entire series is outstanding. It is a blend of science fiction, fantasy, and political intrigue and the author did with style and grace, and a writing style that is unique.
The Rill Lord is the best volume of the series. It is fast-paced, tense, emotional, and often surprising. Nothing happens in this book that the reader didn't have hints about, but the author still had surprises as to how things would happen. They bring the story full circle with the lore and history of the culture, and provides not only a satisfying ending but a promise that the world will continue in a better state than before.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A fitting conclusion to a fantastic series. Truly one of the best series I have read in years. Great characters that truly came into their own and grew as I read.
June 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
i wish this was longer bc there is definitely more to be told…. i was expecting some reveals so it was satisfying that i was picking up what the author was putting down in the previous books. sometimes it’s almost refreshing to have a good old classic good vs evil and so no complaints there…. i have like personal beef with but ik some people literally won’t care so yh not gunna lower my star rating just because of my anti agenda.
now i’ve finished and collected my thoughts i still think the first book is the strongest out of all the 6 and i definitely need to re read it with all the knowledge i have now. overall like a 7.5/10 as a series; well written political intrigue, loved the lore and mix of sci-fi and magic, could definitely benefit more with having more female characters that — again AREN’T mothers and/or wives and dorilian also should have been bisexual! there i said it!
EDIT: regarding Bi Dorilian i KNEWW i wasnt delusional!!! well just because it didn't happen on page didnt mean it didnt happen! case closed 🕵♀️
i wish this was longer bc there is definitely more to be told…. i was expecting some reveals so it was satisfying that i was picking up what the author was putting down in the previous books. sometimes it’s almost refreshing to have a good old classic good vs evil and so no complaints there…. i have like personal beef with but ik some people literally won’t care so yh not gunna lower my star rating just because of my anti agenda.
now i’ve finished and collected my thoughts i still think the first book is the strongest out of all the 6 and i definitely need to re read it with all the knowledge i have now. overall like a 7.5/10 as a series; well written political intrigue, loved the lore and mix of sci-fi and magic, could definitely benefit more with having more female characters that — again AREN’T mothers and/or wives and dorilian also should have been bisexual! there i said it!
EDIT: regarding Bi Dorilian i KNEWW i wasnt delusional!!! well just because it didn't happen on page didnt mean it didnt happen! case closed 🕵♀️
Review of advance copy
Is Dorilian Sordaneon a monster or a man? Or maybe a God--who knows? The theme running through all of the books is that question. Just who is Dorilian at heart. Is he that monster some think he is, or is he just man driven to secure his dynasty? It's been an interesting journey finding out, and of course, I am not going to spoil the story by saying what I think.
One thing which I think is remarkable about this story are the characters that stick with you from day one. Memorable, real characters who tug at your heart strings or leave you wondering just what they are and just who they are and what their motives are.
The world building of the Rill and the people who formed it is key throughout because without the Rill, commerce could fail, but it isn't just a structure, it is magical and without Dorilian's mind it would fail. So of course, some want to merely use him, others want him dead. Others just refuse to trust him, because he's a prickly bastard, become that way for many reasons.
I loved the complexity of the whole, the details that are laced through the novels that catch up with one another, the reasons behind everything. Dorilian is a phenomenal character who you just have to keep reading about. Of course there are many more throughout the novels that you either abhor or love, and this kind of writing keeps one up all night just to finish it, which is a rarity these days. I would spoil it if I told too much. I think I've said before, I would rate L.L.Stephen's writing up there with the likes of Janny Wurts. That same attention to detail and quality of prose. But don't rely on me, go read. I would definitely give all the books 5 stars.
One thing which I think is remarkable about this story are the characters that stick with you from day one. Memorable, real characters who tug at your heart strings or leave you wondering just what they are and just who they are and what their motives are.
The world building of the Rill and the people who formed it is key throughout because without the Rill, commerce could fail, but it isn't just a structure, it is magical and without Dorilian's mind it would fail. So of course, some want to merely use him, others want him dead. Others just refuse to trust him, because he's a prickly bastard, become that way for many reasons.
I loved the complexity of the whole, the details that are laced through the novels that catch up with one another, the reasons behind everything. Dorilian is a phenomenal character who you just have to keep reading about. Of course there are many more throughout the novels that you either abhor or love, and this kind of writing keeps one up all night just to finish it, which is a rarity these days. I would spoil it if I told too much. I think I've said before, I would rate L.L.Stephen's writing up there with the likes of Janny Wurts. That same attention to detail and quality of prose. But don't rely on me, go read. I would definitely give all the books 5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I had the pleasure of reading *The Rill Lord* as an ARC, and it turned out to be a truly engaging and memorable fantasy journey. From the very beginning, the story arc felt carefully crafted — each twist built naturally on what came before, creating a sense of momentum that kept me invested right through to the final pages.
The writing style deserves special praise. It strikes a wonderful balance between lyrical description and clear, immersive storytelling, making the world feel vivid without ever slowing the pace. The emotional beats were especially strong; even when some of my favourite characters were lost along the way, those moments felt meaningful and earned rather than simply shocking.
What stood out most to me was the closing of the story. The ending manages to be genuinely hopeful while still honoring the struggles that came before, offering a satisfying and heartfelt resolution that lingers after you finish the book. It’s rare to find a finale that feels both complete and emotionally uplifting, and *The Rill Lord* absolutely delivers on that front.
Overall, this was an interesting and rewarding read with a compelling narrative arc, elegant prose, and a very strong conclusion. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with emotional depth and a beautifully executed ending.
The writing style deserves special praise. It strikes a wonderful balance between lyrical description and clear, immersive storytelling, making the world feel vivid without ever slowing the pace. The emotional beats were especially strong; even when some of my favourite characters were lost along the way, those moments felt meaningful and earned rather than simply shocking.
What stood out most to me was the closing of the story. The ending manages to be genuinely hopeful while still honoring the struggles that came before, offering a satisfying and heartfelt resolution that lingers after you finish the book. It’s rare to find a finale that feels both complete and emotionally uplifting, and *The Rill Lord* absolutely delivers on that front.
Overall, this was an interesting and rewarding read with a compelling narrative arc, elegant prose, and a very strong conclusion. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with emotional depth and a beautifully executed ending.
May 10, 2026
Well, I've just been on an amazing journey. Each book is between 500 and 800 pages each, and there's 6 of them. How many words is that? I dread to think. I don't regret giving my time over to any of them.
At first I thought all the five star reviews (and the reviews for this series are pretty much all four and five stars) were some kind of scam. Nope! It's really THAT good. If you like political fantasy, science fantasy, morally grey characters, characters who are a paragon of goodness, cartoonish villains, multiple worlds, some kind of monorail that's also a god and an ancient artefact, some sort of wall that shows possible futures, and other mad and beautiful shit, come on down basically.
At first I thought all the five star reviews (and the reviews for this series are pretty much all four and five stars) were some kind of scam. Nope! It's really THAT good. If you like political fantasy, science fantasy, morally grey characters, characters who are a paragon of goodness, cartoonish villains, multiple worlds, some kind of monorail that's also a god and an ancient artefact, some sort of wall that shows possible futures, and other mad and beautiful shit, come on down basically.
July 14, 2026
Insane ride from start to finish. I expected Dor to eventually be forced to face his fear and merge with his Entity, but the way it was done and the way his godhood was depicted was !!!! bonkers. Insanity. Better than I expected. And to think, I thought Dor was scary enough before . . . L.L. Stephens, your mind 🤯🤯🤯🤯.
There was so much good in this book, but unfortunately I can’t give it 5/5 stars.
The Good:
1. Dorilian Sordaneon--Stephens put her whole blood, soul, and guts to birth this singularity of a man. I thought making a character be OP, human AND likeable was an impossible feat, but Stephens proved me wrong. It was so addictive to see Dor just scheme and outsmart and be arrogant and win. Him getting everything he wanted at the end was fitting, because what Dor wants, he WILL get lol. I expected nothing less.
I can't believe I thought the pregnancy was an accident. Of course Dor factored in that possibility and knew conception occurred immediately. Of course Dor spun the pregnancy to his personal and political and ideological advantage. And of course he's having twins. Twin SONS. His sperm so alpha they only carry Y chromosomes probably why not.
It's moments like that that I can understand why people worship him/hate his fucking guts lolol. Crazy bastard. He's in my top 10 Coolest MCs of all time.
2. Handurin Mark Frederick Stauberg-Randolph (Permephedon)--The moment I started book 3 and saw his POV I was squealing with joy ngl. Watching his journey and growth and carry on Marc Frederick's legacy and become bonded with Dor was amazing. Dor might be the stronger and flashier character, but Hans was my absolute favorite. I'll mourn that his story is over, that I'll never know what his life as king will be like. I'll miss him so much.
(Still can’t believe he’s actually Highborn . . . I mean it was obvious now but STILL . . . Makes me want to reread book 1 and 3 just to go over Dor and Hans’s first meetings again. See how their enemies—unlikely allies—reluctant allies—allies—friends—brothers/gay allegations closeness story began yk.)
The Bad:
1. Pacing--I mostly don’t have this issue with the previous books, but everything after the major fortress battle was too fast. The briskness matched the dire situation the gang was in, sure, but it didn’t give the insane plot twists/lore drops the time that they deserved.
Are you telling me that Tiflan was THE Amynas Malyrdys, THE FATHER OF ALL HIGHBORN KIND AND THE THREE GOD ENTITIES, AND HAD BEEN A PART OF A CONSPIRACY THAT SEBBORD AND THE REST WERE ALLL APART OF, HAS BEEN WATCHING OVER DOR HIS WHOLE LIFE AND PLANNING FOR THIS MOMENT AND WAS HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT THIS WHOLE DAMN TIME OH AND MAYBE THE LEUR IS STILL OUT THERE TOO WHY NOT ETC. ETC. And once Dor leaves him Tiflan just never shows up again in the story? Um hello????? Are we not gonna address this or?????????
The ending felt too abrupt too. I read some of Stephens’s short stories that happened after the series was over, and wished she’d incorporated them into the last book somehow, e.g. Marenthro can now show up in Permephedon even though he’s an immortal Entity now?? Overall there was so much that didn’t feel properly addressed. And the extra lore of the world??? TF. Tiflan/Amynas should’ve had his ass dragged back into the plot so he could explain this stuff—something, anything!!!
2. Aubrey Amundda--What a disappointing character. I knew having a female POV character that didn't have sex with Dor was impossible--he's just too alpha the moment they met I knew they'd eventually go at it crazy style. But at the very least, I wanted her to do more than orbit around Dor/Hans's life. But once she got pregnant (and WANTED to be pregnant) I knew her story was essentially over. Would fast track to being a lover and mother. 99% of her priorities were the baby and Dor, wow Dor's so handsome, wow Dor cares about her right?, it's the Mother's plan that she has Dor's babies, where was Dor, is Dor safe, does Dor know she's keeping her promise to stay safe, does Dor know she loves him, has to be at Dor's side 24/7, has Dor been hurt, how long until she can speak to Dor again, how could they do that to Dor!, Dor Dor Dorrrrrr r r rr r r r r r r r r r rrrrrrr rrr r r r
Aubrey is intelligent. She has the ability to be logical. Yet all those braincells seemed to be thrown out the fucking window wherever Dor was involved. She was ensorcelled, obsessed, dick!matized. It would be one thing if Aubrey found out she got pregnant, then saw the political benefits to keeping Dor's baby or whatever. But no, she thought it was a mighty fine idea to be pregnant DURING a war with a massive TARGET on her well-formed backside. But it's fine! It's all fine! It's the Mother's work to be blessed with this baby! Because Dor wants the baby! Wants to be in the baby's life! And Dor's like a god now and stuff?? WOW! That's fine! Immortal all-powerful husband! Dor's always been mysterious and stuff so! What's the difference! :DDDDDDDDD
Her being Dor's lover isn't an inherently bad role. She provided the much neededsex physical and emotional(?) support that only a partner can provide to Dor, especially now that he's a god and needs a human anchor. It's the bizarre optimism, the naivete, that pisses me off to no end. I guess the bog witch's prophecy came true after all--Aubrey was the one tied to just a man, because she knows this man so SO well amirite. She definitely spent more than a few weeks with him, absolutelyyyy yup yup yup. And Dor loves her too so, it all worked out!!! Yay!!!!!!
I kind of enjoyed Aubrey's chapters in book 3, but her pages in this book was such a waste of space. Her POV could've been removed altogether and it wouldn't have made a difference. In fact, it might've improved the book--more page space, more room for lore! Or a better conclusion!
But no. Those dreams are dead, floating in the wind along with Nammuor's/Arne's dust. #RipArne#TheGoat#AlsoRIPLegon#AlsoThe GOAT#HisandDorsbackstorydeservedtobeintheseriesseriously#LegonxDorGayAllegationsWalkedSoHansxDorGayAllegationsCouldRun
There was so much good in this book, but unfortunately I can’t give it 5/5 stars.
The Good:
1. Dorilian Sordaneon--Stephens put her whole blood, soul, and guts to birth this singularity of a man. I thought making a character be OP, human AND likeable was an impossible feat, but Stephens proved me wrong. It was so addictive to see Dor just scheme and outsmart and be arrogant and win. Him getting everything he wanted at the end was fitting, because what Dor wants, he WILL get lol. I expected nothing less.
I can't believe I thought the pregnancy was an accident. Of course Dor factored in that possibility and knew conception occurred immediately. Of course Dor spun the pregnancy to his personal and political and ideological advantage. And of course he's having twins. Twin SONS. His sperm so alpha they only carry Y chromosomes probably why not.
It's moments like that that I can understand why people worship him/hate his fucking guts lolol. Crazy bastard. He's in my top 10 Coolest MCs of all time.
2. Handurin Mark Frederick Stauberg-Randolph (Permephedon)--The moment I started book 3 and saw his POV I was squealing with joy ngl. Watching his journey and growth and carry on Marc Frederick's legacy and become bonded with Dor was amazing. Dor might be the stronger and flashier character, but Hans was my absolute favorite. I'll mourn that his story is over, that I'll never know what his life as king will be like. I'll miss him so much.
(Still can’t believe he’s actually Highborn . . . I mean it was obvious now but STILL . . . Makes me want to reread book 1 and 3 just to go over Dor and Hans’s first meetings again. See how their enemies—unlikely allies—reluctant allies—allies—friends—brothers/
The Bad:
1. Pacing--I mostly don’t have this issue with the previous books, but everything after the major fortress battle was too fast. The briskness matched the dire situation the gang was in, sure, but it didn’t give the insane plot twists/lore drops the time that they deserved.
Are you telling me that Tiflan was THE Amynas Malyrdys, THE FATHER OF ALL HIGHBORN KIND AND THE THREE GOD ENTITIES, AND HAD BEEN A PART OF A CONSPIRACY THAT SEBBORD AND THE REST WERE ALLL APART OF, HAS BEEN WATCHING OVER DOR HIS WHOLE LIFE AND PLANNING FOR THIS MOMENT AND WAS HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT THIS WHOLE DAMN TIME OH AND MAYBE THE LEUR IS STILL OUT THERE TOO WHY NOT ETC. ETC. And once Dor leaves him Tiflan just never shows up again in the story? Um hello????? Are we not gonna address this or?????????
The ending felt too abrupt too. I read some of Stephens’s short stories that happened after the series was over, and wished she’d incorporated them into the last book somehow, e.g. Marenthro can now show up in Permephedon even though he’s an immortal Entity now?? Overall there was so much that didn’t feel properly addressed. And the extra lore of the world??? TF. Tiflan/Amynas should’ve had his ass dragged back into the plot so he could explain this stuff—something, anything!!!
2. Aubrey Amundda--What a disappointing character. I knew having a female POV character that didn't have sex with Dor was impossible--
Aubrey is intelligent. She has the ability to be logical. Yet all those braincells seemed to be thrown out the fucking window wherever Dor was involved. She was ensorcelled, obsessed, dick!matized. It would be one thing if Aubrey found out she got pregnant, then saw the political benefits to keeping Dor's baby or whatever. But no, she thought it was a mighty fine idea to be pregnant DURING a war with a massive TARGET on her well-formed backside. But it's fine! It's all fine! It's the Mother's work to be blessed with this baby! Because Dor wants the baby! Wants to be in the baby's life! And Dor's like a god now and stuff?? WOW! That's fine! Immortal all-powerful husband! Dor's always been mysterious and stuff so! What's the difference! :DDDDDDDDD
Her being Dor's lover isn't an inherently bad role. She provided the much needed
I kind of enjoyed Aubrey's chapters in book 3, but her pages in this book was such a waste of space. Her POV could've been removed altogether and it wouldn't have made a difference. In fact, it might've improved the book--more page space, more room for lore! Or a better conclusion!
But no. Those dreams are dead, floating in the wind along with Nammuor's/Arne's dust. #RipArne#TheGoat#AlsoRIPLegon#AlsoThe GOAT#HisandDorsbackstorydeservedtobeintheseriesseriously#LegonxDorGayAllegationsWalkedSoHansxDorGayAllegationsCouldRun
April 30, 2026
[There are no explicit plot spoilers in this review]
The Rill Lord is Book VI in the Triempery Revelations series by L.L. Stephens. It's a fitting conclusion to this intricately-layered series, providing rewarding pay-offs for the characters and marking this series as one worth devouring from start to finish.
With Nammour and the Mormantaloran army temporarily stalled, Dorilian rejoins Hans at Gustan to plot out a final confrontation. Dorilian's presence throws Hans' Kheldish alliances into chaos, forcing everyone to come to terms with conflicting impressions of each prince: what they appeared to be and what they actually stand for.
The pacing of the plot and the drip of new reveals is excellent, with many of the supporting characters blossoming and claiming their places in the story. I most enjoyed the evolution of Nalf Rhys and a welcome return of Emyli Stauberg-Randolph. I also appreciated the shift in power between Hans and Dorilian which constantly raised the murky question of who was in the driver's seat.
The ending was solid and satisfying, built on the heroics of every character (even Robdan). My one minor criticism was that the way the plot spun to conclusion felt almost too safe -- I would have liked more danger, more shocks, and maybe more alien perspective in the closing chapters. That said, I do realize it's silly to review what isn't there. The ending on the page is well-done, and maybe it's better to nail the safe ending than try too hard to be different and fail!
This entire series was a delightful surprise. It was recommended to me by Janny Wurts, who bats 1000 at the "If you like this, then you'll like that..." game and has never led me astray. When comparing the six books, I felt like Book I (Sordaneon) was just perfect -- it plunged me into a byzantine world without training wheels while still managing to move and surprise me. For me, the other 5 books never quite reached the same highs as Book I, but got awfully close. Taken together they present an interesting world with memorable characters and a plethora of fresh ideas. I would definitely recommend the series as a whole to anyone who loves political intrigue, tightly-calibrated reveals, or fully-realized characters that feel like they still exist off the page.
The Rill Lord is Book VI in the Triempery Revelations series by L.L. Stephens. It's a fitting conclusion to this intricately-layered series, providing rewarding pay-offs for the characters and marking this series as one worth devouring from start to finish.
With Nammour and the Mormantaloran army temporarily stalled, Dorilian rejoins Hans at Gustan to plot out a final confrontation. Dorilian's presence throws Hans' Kheldish alliances into chaos, forcing everyone to come to terms with conflicting impressions of each prince: what they appeared to be and what they actually stand for.
The pacing of the plot and the drip of new reveals is excellent, with many of the supporting characters blossoming and claiming their places in the story. I most enjoyed the evolution of Nalf Rhys and a welcome return of Emyli Stauberg-Randolph. I also appreciated the shift in power between Hans and Dorilian which constantly raised the murky question of who was in the driver's seat.
The ending was solid and satisfying, built on the heroics of every character (even Robdan). My one minor criticism was that the way the plot spun to conclusion felt almost too safe -- I would have liked more danger, more shocks, and maybe more alien perspective in the closing chapters. That said, I do realize it's silly to review what isn't there. The ending on the page is well-done, and maybe it's better to nail the safe ending than try too hard to be different and fail!
This entire series was a delightful surprise. It was recommended to me by Janny Wurts, who bats 1000 at the "If you like this, then you'll like that..." game and has never led me astray. When comparing the six books, I felt like Book I (Sordaneon) was just perfect -- it plunged me into a byzantine world without training wheels while still managing to move and surprise me. For me, the other 5 books never quite reached the same highs as Book I, but got awfully close. Taken together they present an interesting world with memorable characters and a plethora of fresh ideas. I would definitely recommend the series as a whole to anyone who loves political intrigue, tightly-calibrated reveals, or fully-realized characters that feel like they still exist off the page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fantastic conclusion to one of my favorite series ever. This book rode on high momentum from the very beginning, bringing forth amazing reveals and twists that shaped context to so many things that have happened before.
Hans was the MVP in this book and damn my boy has come a really long way. I loved his dynamics with Dor here and the parallels it shaped with how their relationship was in the beginning. Since the third book, Dor has been the one manipulating Hans path and bringing him to the realization of what he is and what he is meant to do. Yet towards the end of the book, we still see Dor struggling to complete his own path, something he had been fearing from the very first book. And guess who pushes him to realization and fulfillment? You guessed right, Hans. It was such a nice culmination to Dor's relationship with both Hans and Hans' grandfather, Marc Frederick.
The battles here were also exhilarating. Nammour's abilities are really terrifying and the sequences of events that occurred in that battle were breathtaking and horrifying. A shame though the big battle happened in the middle and we spent the remaining half with the aftermath of it, which sort of led to an outcome with Nammour I wasn't a huge fan of. I was also disappointed with how passive Aubrey was in this book. I was hoping she could be more. But overall that didn't quench most of my excitement for the book. It's still an amazing conclusion and it made me love Robdan so much more
Favorite characters in the series are
1. Dorilian Sordaneon
2. Handurin Stauberg Randolf
3. Marc Frederick
4. Robdan Aelfricson
5. Aubrey Amundda
6. Stefan Stauberg Randolf
Hans was the MVP in this book and damn my boy has come a really long way. I loved his dynamics with Dor here and the parallels it shaped with how their relationship was in the beginning. Since the third book, Dor has been the one manipulating Hans path and bringing him to the realization of what he is and what he is meant to do. Yet towards the end of the book, we still see Dor struggling to complete his own path, something he had been fearing from the very first book. And guess who pushes him to realization and fulfillment? You guessed right, Hans. It was such a nice culmination to Dor's relationship with both Hans and Hans' grandfather, Marc Frederick.
The battles here were also exhilarating. Nammour's abilities are really terrifying and the sequences of events that occurred in that battle were breathtaking and horrifying. A shame though the big battle happened in the middle and we spent the remaining half with the aftermath of it, which sort of led to an outcome with Nammour I wasn't a huge fan of. I was also disappointed with how passive Aubrey was in this book. I was hoping she could be more. But overall that didn't quench most of my excitement for the book. It's still an amazing conclusion and it made me love Robdan so much more
Favorite characters in the series are
1. Dorilian Sordaneon
2. Handurin Stauberg Randolf
3. Marc Frederick
4. Robdan Aelfricson
5. Aubrey Amundda
6. Stefan Stauberg Randolf
April 23, 2026
It is with a feeling of both joy and sadness that I finish this beautiful journey. The Trimpery series is at the top of my all-time favorite completed series.
This last volume begins with great tension, and that tension never lets up. Surprising revelations abound, but the feeling I had when I finished the book is that I had before me one of the most fascinating sagas, which, despite the numerous moments of sadness it offered, never ceased to show me the beauty and importance of friendship and love when all seems lost. The writing is brilliant and mesmerizing.
Bravo L.L. Stephens
This last volume begins with great tension, and that tension never lets up. Surprising revelations abound, but the feeling I had when I finished the book is that I had before me one of the most fascinating sagas, which, despite the numerous moments of sadness it offered, never ceased to show me the beauty and importance of friendship and love when all seems lost. The writing is brilliant and mesmerizing.
Bravo L.L. Stephens
July 15, 2026
It was an amazing ending for an amazing series. The battle against Namour reaches its final stage.
The feelings in this book are so very strong, and I was on edge the entire time. After I finished, I felt upset, not because the ending was bad, but because I craved more of it. I have gotten so used to reading about these characters that it hurt that this is ending. I love this series with all my heart.
The only thing that really bothers me is the way Aubrey's character was handled. But otherwise, it's a 10/10.
The feelings in this book are so very strong, and I was on edge the entire time. After I finished, I felt upset, not because the ending was bad, but because I craved more of it. I have gotten so used to reading about these characters that it hurt that this is ending. I love this series with all my heart.
The only thing that really bothers me is the way Aubrey's character was handled. But otherwise, it's a 10/10.
May 28, 2026
Great political fantasy series. Sadly, book 1 set the bar that high, that my expectations for the rest of the series might have been too high, and left me a bit dissapointed, as those highs of book 1 were never quite reached again.
June 11, 2026
Five stars. All the stars. Just take all of it.
June 11, 2026
One of the greatest fantasy series I have ever read. Simply amazing.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Rill Lord is the spectacular finale of the Triempery Revelations by L.L. Stephens, and one of my most anticipated books of the year. When the notification of the ARC came through from the publisher, my hands were shaking so much from excitement that I couldn’t download it – which gives you an idea of just how much I was looking forward to this book! And it did not disappoint.
From the start of this series, there were so many things about it that I loved. The depth of the world-building, which blends elements of fantasy and science-fiction, is intriguing from the first page, and the whole concept of the Rill and Dorilian’s relationship to it is unlike anything I have read before. That connection really is crux of the whole series and of this finale instalment, and going into this book, I was very nervous about where this aspect of the story would end up.
Then there’s all the juicy fantasy politics. I adore political fantasy. I love scheming and intrigue, and this entire series is full of it, with fascinating, intelligent characters on multiple sides doing their best to make life difficult for each other. And one of the things that makes The Rill Lord such a great read is the extremely satisfying way some of those storylines, many of which have spanned multiple books, come to their conclusion. There were several moments where I cheered as I was reading!
But my absolute favourite thing about the series is the characters and their complex relationships. The first book, Sordaneon, is about the forging of a friendship. It’s complicated, deeply moving and ultimately tragic, but it underpins almost everything else that happens in the series. The second book, The Kheld King, is about a rivalry – a very frustrating one – but in its way it is as defining as the friendship in Sordaneon. Then the last four books are about the forming of a partnership that is very much the product of those two prior relationships, and watching that unfold, with all its ups and downs, has been so much fun.
That partnership is between Hans and Dorilian. Dorilian is difficult, brilliant, and oh so petty – I could read him about all day. And Hans really comes into his own in this book, which sees the balance shift between them in unexpected ways as events in the finale unfold.
Then there are the wonderful side characters – Marc Frederick, Marenthro, Lev, Emyli, Aubrey, everyone’s favourite uncle Robdan, and Nalf Rhys, who had one of the best scenes in the whole series when the Khelds finally realise who Dorilian is. I do wish Dorilian and Aubery had had more time together as I loved their scenes in the previous books, but Dorilian really doesn’t have a lot of fun in this book, and the role reversal this leads to is unsettling for everyone – reader included.
Unlike the early books in particular, which spanned quite long periods, the action in The Rill Lord takes place over a relatively short space of time. This is the climax the whole series has been building towards, coming on top of the spectacular ending to The Walled City, and it was suitably epic, but it also was also very hard-earned, and I lost some characters I really loved getting there. It also wasn’t non-stop action, which I liked. Yes, there’s an epic battle, but there’s also plenty of quiet time with the characters. For me, because often the moments between action are the ones I like best, this was the perfect balance.
Beyond that, The Rill Lord delivers on other levels. Series-long mysteries are unravelled, questions are answered, and we learn the true identify of more than one character – one of which took me completely by surprise (and I’m still not sure how I feel about it). I was left wanting more, not because the ending wasn’t satisfying but because I love this world and its characters so much. I am very much looking forward to going back to the beginning and reading the whole thing again.
May 21, 2026
This is the final book in the Triempery Revelations series, which I’ve been captivated by since the first installment was published in 2021. Thanks to the author being very active on social media, the wait between books became an entertaining journey in itself. And now, the final book is finally here.
It’s fast-paced and action-packed: Dorilian, Hans, and their respective armies and allies take on Nammuor. Battles do not unfold as planned, beloved characters find themselves in nail-bitingly perilous situations, and they are forced to make heartbreaking decisions and devise desperate plans to survive and prevail.
The relationship between Dorilian and Hans develops further and blossoms, but it also takes darker and unexpected turns. In many ways, it is the heart and soul of this final book, just as intense as the relationship between Dorilian and Marc-Frederic was in the first one. But several other characters also play prominent and fascinating roles: “Uncle Rob,” first and foremost, but especially Emily, and of course my beloved Levyathan.
For a long time, mysteries and unanswered questions surrounded some of the characters, especially Hans and Marenthro. Revelations are made, but… we actually get more than we bargained for! No spoilers, though.
Now that the entire series has been published, I hope these books will find their way into the minds and hearts of many more readers.
It’s fast-paced and action-packed: Dorilian, Hans, and their respective armies and allies take on Nammuor. Battles do not unfold as planned, beloved characters find themselves in nail-bitingly perilous situations, and they are forced to make heartbreaking decisions and devise desperate plans to survive and prevail.
The relationship between Dorilian and Hans develops further and blossoms, but it also takes darker and unexpected turns. In many ways, it is the heart and soul of this final book, just as intense as the relationship between Dorilian and Marc-Frederic was in the first one. But several other characters also play prominent and fascinating roles: “Uncle Rob,” first and foremost, but especially Emily, and of course my beloved Levyathan.
For a long time, mysteries and unanswered questions surrounded some of the characters, especially Hans and Marenthro. Revelations are made, but… we actually get more than we bargained for! No spoilers, though.
Now that the entire series has been published, I hope these books will find their way into the minds and hearts of many more readers.
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