The Aspirant of Blood

The Starscourge Chronicles #1

by Riley Knight

Lady Mare Rohan is the last living heir to the lost city of Tirnanog—a title that means nothing with her people dead.

Hoping to reclaim what was stolen from her, she courts the prince, but her plans for marriage are quickly shattered.

Paragons are vaunted heroes of the Empire—only the King himself holds more power. They carry enchanted weapons that choose their next wielder upon the previous Paragon’s death.

One just chose Mare. But women are not allowed to be Paragons.

To shield her from the enraged nobles, the prince orders Mare to train under the most powerful remaining Paragon, but she is in more danger with him, than alone. Shadows stirred within her when she first wielded the Paragon's blade.

Paragon Tiernan is the only force protecting her from her enemies, but should he learn her dark secret?

He would not hesitate to take her life.

Daughter of No Worlds meets the Cruel Prince in this dark, epic fantasy romance.

Genres: Fantasy

Kindle Edition

Expected publication July 21, 2026

Reviews

[Ashen Frigg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m absolutely OBSESSED with this book!!! The world building, the characters, the story!!! Cannot wait for book 2! Really amazing epic fantasy with a really magic weapons and some badass FMCs. Riley did an amazing job bringing the world to life and making me fall in love with the characters. There’s seductive slow burn romance throughout and I mean SLOW. Love, love, love!

[minimalistreadingnook]

The Aspirant of Blood follows Mare as she transitions from noblewoman to elite warrior after being chosen by enchanted weapon. As she navigates deadly politics and prejudices, she will have to–quite literally–fight to earn her place as a Paragon.

Despite what the book summary suggests, this is actually a multiple POV book and it took me a little time to realize how all of the characters and storylines fit together. Once it becomes clearer, the bigger picture unfolds, and you realize just how big the scope of the story truly is.

I went into the story thinking it would lean more toward romantasy; however, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it’s really an epic fantasy with a supporting romantic storyline. The romance is there, but it never overshadows the rich world building, political conflict, and character development unfolding throughout the story.

I can’t say much about the content of the book without spoiling it, so I’ll leave you with this: if you’re looking for a story with justified feminine rage and multiple characters who grow and truly come into their own throughout the book, this is a perfect story for you.

The ending will leave you with more questions than answers, setting the stage for the next installment. I can’t wait to see where the characters go after those final chapters!

Thank you so much to the author for an early copy of this book for review!

[natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“some people are hunted because their very existence is wrong. it must be nice. being born right.”

i have many, many, many things to say about this book. riley knight when i catch you…when i get my hands on you… *shakes fist towards the sky*

i’m not trying to write a whole essay on goodreads but just trust that i COULD! the autism CAN and WILL strike !! i’m obsessed with this book. it’s truly got all of my favorite elements of a fantasy: unique world, epic magic, strong women, tension and twists and turns, insidious politics, and mmcs that make me tee hee and twirl my hair. this book makes you think - makes you question the status quo and the idea of if we’re truly free to be ourselves in a society built to tear us down and force us to wear masks.

brutha i swear riley has cast some sort of spell on me because i cannot stop thinking about this book. i’m going to transform into a pterodactyl and start screeching at the top of my lungs and flapping my wings. AHSJFID you know what i mean? it’s just that good.

mare, diar, brighid, and bláth? i love you. you’ve never done anything wrong ever. women <3

liam and ferris? i will feed you soup.

reese and vaf…count your days. i will get you pregnant. you will be mine.

anyways.

if you’re looking for a truly epic fantasy with sweeping world building, so much political intrigue with spies and assassins and mystery, and an achingly swoon worthy slow burn (& i’m talking glacial speed baby. yummy), then you need to pick up this book.

as always, thank you to riley for the honor of arc reading :)

[Yolanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need to stop reading books by Riley Knight.

No author can blindside a reader quite like she can. There the reader is, fully engrossed in a world that is vivid and alive, enjoying the story of a woman who is given power the men around her think she should not have, and BAM. Just like that, out of nowhere, emotional damage.

But did I stop reading? Did I decide enough was enough and walk away?

No, of course not.

Because apparently I love the pain.

Going into this book, I thought nothing would ever top The Veil of Elpis series for me. Don't get me wrong, I have loved every Riley Knight book I have read, but I truly believed that series would remain my favorite.

I was wrong. So very wrong.

The world-building in The Aspirant of Blood is incredible. Riley Knight creates a fully realized world without ever making it feel like she is building a world. Everything is woven so naturally into the story that you absorb it without even realizing it.

And the characters... all of them.

How do you write this many major characters and make every single one feel unique? They all have distinct voices, distinct personalities, distinct motivations. Even more impressive, this book is told through multiple points of view, yet it never feels choppy. The transitions are seamless, flowing naturally from one character to the next.

Usually when I finish a book, I have a clear favorite character and at least one character I cannot stand. Not this time.

This time I have conflicting emotions about all of them.

I do not have a favorite, which is so unlike me. But I think that is a testament to how well they are written. None of these characters are perfect. None of them are instantly lovable. They are flawed. They make mistakes. They have secrets. They feel real.

And the story...

I want to talk about it. I really, really do. But I am terrified of giving something away.

Like Riley Knight's other books, the blurb does not adequately prepare you for the story you are about to walk into. It gives you an idea of the setup, but not the emotional journey waiting inside.

What I can say is that we primarily follow women trying to find their place in a world that would rather they stay silent and do as they are told. Women trying to do what they believe is right despite the obstacles placed in front of them. Alongside them are men who see them for who they are and do not try to diminish them.

If you have even mildly enjoyed any of Riley Knight's other books, you are going to love this one.

Add it to your TBR immediately.

[Natasha Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPOILERS!!!!!!! Proceed with caution
I generally can’t wait for book 2 I’m generally so grateful as-well to Riley knight for putting me on her arc team I’m begging for book 2 as I write this …. Now to the book
The characters mare and Reese my favourite absolutely loved Liam whit too
Diar was bad ass would not give up for anything on escaping her absolute cretin of a father don’t blame her frankly specially forced into a marriage
Loved Quinn also his narchy ways were funny
The plot twist omg her mother hmmm let’s just say I ain’t a fan and I’m mare realises not to help her just my opinion
The best scene for me was mare and reece in the garden best bit for me with the brother and father too the suspense was epic the fight scene at the end omg it was all popping off didn’t know who I was geeing on at that rate hehe.
Alistair was a cheeky little rat but also loved him ferris the prince felt was a cheeky chappy who loved to start fights never felt like he belonged till he met diar loved his flirty banter and brigid forcing herself to marry her abuser was dreadful felt terrible for her but at the end it felt a little revengeful which I loved her for that during the end fight but can no longer return home due to turning into a phoenix the scaid. the dragons and monster in this book were beautiful I could imagine when mare put her hand out to touch felt like how to train your dragon vibes.
loved that the yearning for reece and mate are real right now needing book 2 hehe poor killian sad about him he warned and warned and got nothing was fuming hehe the whole thing with the shadows and magic was amazing i also loved the friendship between mare and blath’s also the idea of the men not wanting women to be paragon due to ego problems and they think women are beneath them it feels like real life at times where women had to fight for there rights it was great i will say again i really appreciate Riley knight for this only my second arc ive ever done can’t thank you enough I know this review is long but just proves how much is in that book 💜💜💜💜💜

[Sara Ogans · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really excited to read this book after constantly seeing ads for it. It seemed like it would be right up my alley, and while it didn't completely live up to my expectations, it wasn't a bad read by any means.

As always, reading is subjective, and this is simply my personal opinion. Overall, I'd give it 5 stars because I found the story entertaining and engaging. I thought the world-building and magic system felt unique, and I especially liked the concept of the Paragons, their weapons, and the significance of women being chosen for the first time.

Going in, I expected the story to focus primarily on Mare and Reese, our FMC and MMC. However, I wasn't expecting the multiple POVs from other characters, including Diar, who became another major FMC. Because the blurb mainly focused on Mare and Reese, the additional perspectives felt a little confusing at first. It took me about 20–25% of the book to fully settle into the story and understand everyone's role.

There is definitely a lot of tension throughout the book, with deep-rooted prejudice, stereotypes, and conflict between different groups of people. If those themes aren't your thing, this may not be the book for you. I also noticed a chapter or two where the punctuation seemed off, which made those sections a bit difficult to read, but the issue was eventually resolved and the writing returned to normal.

One thing I really enjoyed was the ending. It wasn't the direction I expected the story to take, which made it all the more satisfying. While I did feel the writing leaned a bit juvenile at times, I wouldn't classify this as a YA book. There is plenty of political intrigue, betrayal, secrets, magic, emotional conflict, and character development woven throughout the story.

Despite having both pros and cons, the book kept me entertained from beginning to end, and that's ultimately what matters most. I'll definitely be continuing with the series, and I would still recommend giving it a try.

[Aly · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Women can be beautiful sparrows, and sharpened blades, both. There is no shame in either." - The Aspirant of Blood

Tropes:
Strong/Fierce Women (plural, not singular)
Forbidden Love
Forced Proximity
He Trains Her
Dragons and Mythical Creatures
Feminine Rage

I don't know what to do with myself after reading this book. I went in thinking I was going to read about just one badass woman, but instead I got to read about multiple of them.

Not only were there multiple badass women, but none of them were the usual trope of super sarcastic - but really are just mean - assassins. No, these women were FIERCE, and I loved all of them so much. The two main female protagonists, Mare and Diar were just absolutely amazing. I loved both of them equally, and I found myself wanting to read more and more with both of them.

I loved the interactions that all of the characters had, especially between that of Mare and the Paragon training her: Tiernan. I appreciated the dynamic between the two and they always had interesting conversations. None of it felt forced or super silly. Not only did I love the interactions between these two, but I loved the interactions with the rest of the characters. It really felt like all of them were going onto quests of sorts and learning about each other slowly.

One of the great things about this book is the world building. I found myself drawn into the world immediately, but I kept coming back from learning more and more about the history/lore. I felt like we were seriously shown the world building instead of being told what it was like. This made it easy to immerse into the book and really connect with the characters more.

Overall, I absolutely will be reading the next book in the series, and I am so glad to have been given eARC of this book from the author!

[LibraryofHols]

ARC reader!
I absolutely adored this book! 💫 From the very beginning, I was completely pulled into the story, and what really stood out to me was how beautifully the dual narratives of Diar and Mare were woven together. At first, you don’t even realise just how deeply connected they are… and then that moment hits, and everything clicks. 🤯✨
The plot felt so refreshing and original. The magic system, in particular, was such a highlight for me , it wasn’t your typical fantasy setup, and I loved following Mare as she slowly discovered and grew into her powers throughout her journey. Watching her learn, struggle, and evolve made everything feel so immersive and real. 🔮
One of my favourite aspects of this book was its powerful portrayal of female strength💖 Both women face incredibly difficult challenges, yet they continue to rise above everything thrown at them. Their resilience, courage, and determination were genuinely inspiring. And the found family element? Absolutely everything. 🥹
It added so much warmth and heart to the story.

The world-building was just stunning...from the magic weapons to the unique abilities, to the vivid and varied landscapes. Every detail made the world feel alive, and I was completely hooked. 🌍✨

And then there’s Reece… 😩💘 He had me giggling and kicking my feet more times than I can count! I do love a grumpy MMC, but it was such a refreshing change to see one who isn’t afraid to be open, supportive, and emotionally available. The way he showed up for her so openly? UGH, I was smiling like an idiot the whole time. 🥰
Overall, this book had me completely enchanted, full of heart, strength, magic, and moments that genuinely made me feel. I didn’t want it to end! 📚💫

[Meg (fantasybook.adventurer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨The Aspirant of Blood✨

Riley is so good at multi-POV storylines and it shows once again in the upcoming release of her newest series debut, TAOB. This tale gives Mulan meets Blood & Steel vibes but with an epic & true slow burn.

Primarily, we follow the POVs of two oppressed women, Diar and Mare, who are each seeking retribution for a loss despite being suppressed in a society where women are merely objects and property. Trained to keep silent and invisible, Mare and Diar not only use these skills to their benefit but also defy all manacles that bind them by taking matters into their own hands. When a magical weapon chooses them, the world descends into chaos over women rising above “their station”. Hidden identities, mysterious allis who may actually be foe, a radical found family, deadly monsters, and a war on the horizon, this epic feast is a plot driven fantasy that will leave you salivating for that burn and staying up late for answers.

Riley did such a phenomenal job making each character its own, unique, and pivotal in their own way. She made it feel like there really was no supporting cast, but that everyone had a purpose. I loved the slow burn and I’m terrified with what will happen next after that bargain! And I NEED to know more about our other men. The banter was soooo good and I loved the neurospicy rep.

Tropes you may find in TAOB are forced proximity, forbidden love & magic, he makes her favorite food, wound tending/comfort, true slow burn, neurospicy rep, found family multi-POV, no spice, banter, dragons, feminine rage, hidden identities, yearning, mentor x mentee.

Riley, thank you for this gifted arc and letting me continue to be on your arc team!

[Laura Pearce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good fantasy read and I couldn’t put it down. It was well written and the story was full of complicated lore like a true fantasy book vs a more lightweight beginner’s fantasy. The story primarily follows two women and a cast of love interests, allies, and potential enemies for them both.

Diar watched her brother murdered in front of her by a Solheart assassin. The brother, Akemi, who trained her, cared for her, and made her feel valuable in a world that treats women as less than men. No one, not even her father believed her when she tried to tell them a Solheart was responsible. Solhearts are a higher rank than the rest of society’s members so everyone thinks she must be wrong. She sets out to find the assassin and prove their guilt, ideally avenging her brother by defeating them.

Mare is a woman who lost everything very young. Heiress to Tirnanog, her land was enveloped in a fierce eternal storm, her mother gone, she and her father barely escaping. Her adopted brother Liam is her closest ally and best friend. His heritage is mixed causing him to experience prejudice and less opportunities than Mare. Mare decides she will marry into a royal family with influence in the hope that she can convince them to save her kingdom.

Along the way, the two women step into their own power alongside a rich cast of characters including Paragons (chosen protectors with magical weapons), princes, other women trying to make the world better, dubious fae, resistance members, and more!

This book ended on a cliff hanger and I look forward to reading the next one!

[ReaderLiv · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Aspirant of Blood was an all time favorite read for me, and I cannot wait to continue this series. I fell in love with this book from the beginning. The world and story felt new and innovative, while also reminding me of some of my other favorite fantasy reads in a nostalgic way. I was hooked from the first page and could barely put this book down to sleep.

The world that Riley Knight brings you into is full of complex lore, politics, history, and characters. I especially loved many of the female characters who even when faced with horrors are strong and looking towards a better future even in uncertainty. A favorite quote of mine from this book was “ Women can be beautiful sparrows, and sharpened blades. There is no shame in either”. In this quote and through many other moments in this book I found myself relating too and caring deeply for the characters and their histories.

Something I also loved about this book is that it has continued to keep me guessing. I often can see where a story will play out early in a book and I can happily say that was not the case here. I am still on the edge of my seat waiting to be clued in to the secrets and mysteries of each character. The author gives you just enough to continue furthering the story, weaving webs of information that all lead somewhere we can’t yet see.

If you enjoy epic fantasy, slow burn romantasy, strong FMC’s, and world building, this is absolutely for you! Thank you to the Author for sending me a ARC, I am so glad I was able to read and review this book.



*disclaimer*, I received a ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review

[Ruxi Avram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review
Riley Knight creates wonderful magicaly epic worlds, where many characters interact with and change the fabric of the world itself.
In this novel, wr have powerful women in the world of men, women ment to marry and remain silent, to bear children and remain unseen and unheard. A terrifying perspective indeed! We have Mare, a noble woman meant to marry a prince becomes Paragon by a weird turn of events. A Paragon of the realm, maste of a rather huge magic sword that actually chooses her. And she is not the only one!
What is very important in the story,is how the main female characters (because Mare is not the only one!!) are seen by the main male characters! How they gravitate around them, how they value and respect each one of them. As a male character I rather like Ferris, with his craziness and laid back attitude, even if he is deeply traumatized by his father.
A lot of things happen in the background, the amount of things the characters know,we know. Everyone has a different perspective and what we know is definitely not enough. However, the characters are well built, believable human beings.
Riley Knight is a true creator of magic, and I highly recommend her books! Excelent worlds that need to be discovered by every fantasy enthusiast!
I have received this book as ARC from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nickole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rcvd an ARC from the author.

Whoa....what a wild adventure. We meet Mare, a princess with no title as her home and people have all bit disappeared. She is in talks to be the prince's wife and then she will have the power to find home. But first her father and the King is sending her to the front line with a message for Paragon Killian. What mare and he brother see is a village ransacked by monsters except they ignore her completely. The paragon is dead and the sword has chosen its new master....Mare. never has a paragon artifact chosen a woman bhe she will do it justice and do it in remembrance of her mother. Paragon Reese will be Mare's Trainor. We meet Diar, a young woman who longs for freedom. She misses her brother terribly and wants to find his killer desperately. She encounters Prince Ferris and an assassin named Quinn who makes it impossible to believe anything that comes out of his mouth. Her paragon had been killed by the darkness and its bow has selected her as its new master. What are the odds that 2 new paragon are women but Diars father and people want to kill her for it. It's a never-ending battle between people in power and the darkness. Mare knows she is different as she has shadows but it doesn't explain why the monsters heed her. Drama, trauma, betrayal, unanswered questions make this such a good read. Next book please!!

[Soha Amer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book pulled me in from the very first page and did not let go 😩📚

Lady Mare Rohan starts as the last heir of a lost city, carrying the weight of a dead legacy and the hope of reclaiming what was stolen from her 🖤

But everything changes when she becomes chosen by a Paragon’s enchanted weapon — a power that is not meant for women. That moment alone sets the entire story into motion and raises the stakes instantly ⚔️✨

What follows is a dangerous mix of political tension, training, secrets, and survival. Mare is placed under the protection (and control) of Paragon Tiernan, a man who is both her shield and possibly her greatest threat 😩🖤

Their dynamic is intense, layered, and constantly shifting between trust and danger. There is always this underlying tension that something could go wrong at any moment, especially with the secrets Mare is forced to hide 🔥

The fantasy world is dark, atmospheric, and full of power struggles, making every scene feel high-stakes and unpredictable. The idea of enchanted weapons choosing their wielders added such a unique and compelling layer to the story ✨⚔️

Overall, this is a gripping dark fantasy romance filled with secrets, power, danger, and emotional tension that keeps you fully engaged until the end 🖤

[Jenna Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Beta/ARC Review✨

What an incredible start to a story 😮‍💨 One of my favorite reads of 2026!

Mare instantly captured my heart. She’s a heroine carrying the weight of loss, duty, and impossible expectations. Watching her navigate a world determined to deny her place while being called to the darkness growing inside her had me completely invested…and when I tell you that this was hard to put down, it was HARD!

The relationship between Mare and Tiernan was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their dynamic was layered with tension, mistrust, and undeniable chemistry. This created such a perfect slow-burn 🔥 romance. Their interactions were filled with both addicting danger and emotion, especially knowing the devastating consequences if her secret was ever revealed.

The world-building is immersive without being overwhelming, and the political intrigue, ancient magic, and looming threats kept me constantly on the edge of my seat.

Riley does such a wonderful job balancing action with emotional depth. She definitely poured her heart and soul into this story, making the stakes feel both epic and intensely personal. I finished this beta read desperate for answers and ready for book two ASAP!

[Katie McJunkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing!!

Not only did you get duel POV you also got what felt like a duel story that merged to make an incredible story like nothing I’ve read before. The role building is absolutely top notch!

The 2 FMC are such badass women that you can’t help but admire. Mare and Diar are AMAZING and so well written. In a world where women aren’t allowed to be anything other than essentially arm candy. These two are thrown into a high coveted and revered role that typically only men held. And even when people started to push back these two never gave up and kept showing everyone why they deserved the role!

The 2 MMC are to DIE FOR! Reese is strong but so stinking mysterious that you aren’t sure if you can trust him or not. Mare has her hands full with that one. And I love it! And Ferris is so funny and always right there to save Diars ass when she needs it. The side characters cannot be ignored either. They all hold such a significant part of the story. I love how they all fit in and have their perfect roles!

THE ENDING LEFT ME FERAL FOR MORE!! I cannot wait for book 2!!!!!

100/10!! Recommend this book!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

What drew me to this book originally was the cover, followed its synopsis, and I am SO glad it read it! I am rating this book 4.5 stars!

Save the brief overview of the book, I walked into this story not knowing what to truly expect and I was not disappointed. Immediately the premise that a woman has inherited a title that no women has ever received drew me in because HECK YEAH! Women are just as capable as men, if not more so. And for it to happen TWICE in the book? LOVED IT! I also enjoyed that the ensemble of characters each have a secret they are unwilling to part with which adds to the stakes of the story.

The romance was a very small subplot, but not any less exciting. I loved how there was a "fuck it" moment where it was the FMC who said it! Literally had me giggling and saying "get it girl!"

"Women can be beautiful sparrows, and sharpened blades, both. There is no shame in either." I loved reading that at such a pivotal part in the story.

I will say that I feel a glossary would benefit this book. I had to go back to reread some parts trying to understand who was who. Besides that, I enjoyed the story and can't wait to see what comes next!

[Murphy Baisley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Victory Co-Op Editing and NetGalley for the generous opportunity to read the eARC of The Aspirant of Blood. All thoughts and opinions of my own.

Several of us in my book club requested to read this so we could buddy read, and I am so glad wr did, because this was a masterpiece. I am absolutely feral for the sequel. I had to go find the Kickstarter and order a hard copy. I love this story so, so much.

It has absolutely everything I love in a fantasy novel - interesting magic, politics, betrayals, questions - and I found myself sucked in. I love the chemistry between the characters. I love the romantic yearning. I love that half the time, I didn' know who to root for - nothing is clear cut. I can't wait to get answers to all my questions. I love that Diar and Mare are both bad-ass female lead characters, but in different ways. None of the characters in this are 2D, not even the ones that only briefly appear.

I can tell the love and effort and energy that the author put into this series and I am so excited to continue the series. This is by far my favorite book I've read this year.

[Lisa Gainers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... this book is epic fantasy at its best.
The world-building, political intrigue, oppression, and constant twists and turns were beautifully woven together into a story I couldn't put down.
I loved that the story is told through multiple POVs, yet everything blends together seamlessly. Mare and Diar are incredible FMCs who have spent their lives being told to stay quiet, prepare to be brides, and accept that they'll never be equal to men. Despite every obstacle in their path, they refuse to settle. Their determination to carve out their own place in the world made them impossible not to root for.
This book has everything I love in epic fantasy; found family, magical creatures, unlikely allies, betrayal, and a cast where every character has an important role to play. The unique magic system and richly developed world pulled me in from the very beginning, and I was completely invested until the final page.
I cannot wait for book two. When an author creates a world this vivid with characters that have so much depth, I'm all in. Riley Knight absolutely delivered, and I'll be eagerly waiting to see where this story goes next.

[Booksbubblesbiceps · Rating 5 out of 5]

•A new Epic fantasy series is born•

I will only say this once: infinity stars.

Ok, I lied. I will probably tell the world over and over again that Riley Knight’s upcoming release, The Aspirant of Blood, is beyond a 5 star read. Infinity stars, infinity stars, infinity stars!

This book is true epic fantasy, with sweeping world-building, new and interesting magic, and fully developed characters that cross paths through the ongoing timeline in a delicate and deliberate dance.

It is well thought out, so beautifully complex, and incredibly engaging from start to finish. I was swept away into the vast world that Riley created, and the imagery fed to my mind was just stunning. I could visualize the scenes, with fierce warriors and brutal monsters, tender caresses and stolen glances, and all the backstory that filled out the characters so well.

I think you know by now I consider this book a must read. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to beta/arc read this incredible book. All opinions are my own.

[Pagesatpaces · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Aspirant of Blood had me hooked from the start. The writing was so easy to sink into and I flew through it.
The Paragon weapon bonds and training gave me Legends of Thezmarr vibes, but what really made this one stand out was the characters. Mare and Diar are both strong FMCs in very different ways, and I loved following both of their stories.

Ferris completely stole the show for me. He's cheeky, persistent, constantly flirting with Diar (who would rather throw him off a cliff), and every scene he was in was entertaining.

Add in forbidden romance, women supporting women, magical bonds, a unique magic system, and an ending that has me very interested in book two, and this was a really fun read. The only thing that pulled me out occasionally was some modern-sounding language that felt a little out of place in the fantasy setting.
Read if you like:
✨ Weapon bonds
✨ Training sequences
✨ Forbidden romance
✨ Multiple POVs
✨ Touch her and die
✨ He bathes her
✨ Strong FMCs
✨ A cheeky MMC who won't quit

[Teela Mostowy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of The Aspirant of Blood by Riley Knight, and all I can say is: where has this author been all my life?

This was my first Riley Knight book, and I've clearly been missing out.

The writing was incredibly well done. The world-building was rich and detailed without ever becoming overwhelming, and it kept me completely invested in the story from beginning to end. There were so many secrets and twists woven throughout the plot that I was constantly guessing what would happen next.

What stood out most to me were the characters. They were so well developed that I felt genuinely connected to them. The two lead female characters were especially impressive—strong, resilient, and unforgettable. Their growth, determination, and complexity made them some of my favorite characters I've read this year. Mare, Diar, Reese and Ferris are just incredible characters.

If you enjoy epic fantasy with immersive world-building, layered characters, and mysteries that keep you turning pages, I highly recommend The Aspirant of Blood.

Thank you for the ARC. This book has definitely made me want to read more from Riley Knight.

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was epic fantasy from start to finish! Loved the multiple POV’s. I love how we have two FMC’s that are different in many ways.

This world is set in such a misogynistic world, and it will have you yearning for the female rage. There are so many layers to this political system. Every area of this continent has a different main element their people hail from. Being mixed is a no no though. Even the highest species/ class of people have “foul bloods” in their rankings.

Then we thrown in weapon blessed warriors and elemental magic. And this is just only this side of the wall. The shadow lands that are blocked by a wall are bursting to come down by all the beasts that lie on the other side. The beginning of the book starts with a massacre by said beasts. And that is only the beginning of the twists to come!

There are plots twists and betrayals along the way. Some betrayals will only become more heart breaking as the books continue. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. Riley Knight hit it out of the park with this one.

[Bookedandreviewed · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first ever ARC, and I’m so glad it was this one.

The friendships absolutely stole the show for me. Every female character felt like she had her own personality and purpose, and I loved seeing those relationships develop throughout the story. It made the world feel so much richer.

The romance is definitely a true slow burn, so don’t go into this expecting lots of spice. Personally, I didn’t mind that at all because the plot was strong enough to keep me hooked. There were plenty of twists that kept me guessing, and I was constantly trying to work out who could really be trusted.

The only reason this wasn’t quite a five-star read for me is that there were a few moments where I wanted the pacing to move a little quicker. That said, I was completely invested by the end and I’m already desperate to see where the story goes next.

If you enjoy dark fantasy with strong female friendships, a genuine slow-burn romance, and enough mystery to keep you turning the pages, I’d definitely recommend picking this one up.t

[Mattie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have one word… WOW!

I loved everything about The Aspirant of Blood, so much that it consumed me over the past few days while reading it. The storyline was so intricate and well done. As soon as I thought I had an idea of what was going to happen, or who was who, I was proven wrong. It kept me guessing and had me transfixed the entire time. There was just the right amount of world-building. Enough that you weren’t left confused or lost, or too much that can sometimes muddle a story. From the very beginning, you’re thrown into nothing but fast-paced action that kept me on my toes. Each character is so well written. They each have their own storied pasts, upbringings, and challenges to face throughout the book, and each one has me hooked. Everyone has secrets they don’t want revealed. Can anyone really trust those around them?... Who they might consider a friend or ally?

If you’re a fan of feminine rage, multiple POVs, forced proximity, slow-burn romance, dragons and mythical creatures, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND The Aspirant of Blood!

I cannot wait to read book two!!

[Hannah Mann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Aspirant of Blood is a gripping dystopian fantasy that pulled me in from the very first chapter. Set in a world plagued by racism, classism, and sexism, the story follows strong heroines as they fight against systemic injustice while striving to fulfil their destinies. Their resilience and determination made them easy to root for, and their journeys added both emotional depth and tension to the narrative.

The multiple POVs were one of my favourite aspects of the book, constantly revealing new layers to the story and keeping me invested in every character's path. Riley Knight skillfully weaves together themes of love, loss, power, and long-buried secrets, creating an epic tale that never loses momentum.

While there were moments where I wanted even more answers, the mysteries and intrigue have left me eager to see what happens next. Overall, this was an enjoyable and compelling read, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the story develops in the next book.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Read
This is my third book from this author and OMG it did not disappoint, it really has everything I love about fantasy. From the epilogue I was completely hooked and I was gripped throughout.
Mare dreams of royalty, but only so she has the power to find the truth about her long lost home. These plans go awry when she is sent to Galasvar to aid against dark creatures, with her pickpocketing brother. Their gossiping and constant jabs were an absolute highlight for me, as well as the banter between her and Reese.
Diar is a general’s daughter set on a path into a forced marriage. When hearing of the unrest in Galasvar, she decides to flee meeting the absolute sweetheart that is Ferris.
There’s dragons, major yearning, rich lore, immersive world building, true slow burn romance and gory battles. This multi POV focuses on the journeys of these two women battling a misogynistic kingdom whilst carrying grief. With those twists in so excited for book 2!!

[Michelle Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Advanced Reader Copy from Publisher The Aspirant of Blood by Riley Knight is a superb fantasy read.

Book one strikes the perfect balance between world-building and character development. The story introduces its world at just the right pace, allowing you to become invested in the characters without ever feeling overwhelmed. The banter is fantastic, the tension keeps building, and every chapter leaves you wanting to know what happens next.

The story follows two female protagonists who are chosen by magical weapons to become Paragons in a world where women are forbidden from being warriors. Throw in kingdoms at war, ancient magic, monsters, shadows, dragons, runaway brides and fiancées, princes, and plenty of intrigue, and you’ve got an incredibly engaging fantasy adventure.

I was completely hooked from start to finish and can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cancel your plans & start this series!

This book is exactly why epic fantasy has such a strong hold on my heart.

There are so many layers! Each of these characters has incredible depth, their kingdoms are built on layers upon layers (more like secrets upon secrets, but you'll find out). Twists continue twisting and building tension until you can't stand it anymore!

This story gives you pieces as you go, but they could connect in so many ways that you don't exactly know what's ahead until all these pieces and characters culminate in one legendary event. And that's where you're left- mouth agape, mind blown, and no brain function. 🤯

In a world divided by elemental magic and ruled by a corrupt hierarchy -

For the first time in decades, the legendary power of a Paragon has chosen two women. Mare and Diar should be celebrated as heroes—but the kingdoms fear what they represent and will stop at nothing to silence them.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Advanced Reader Copy

This book is on the top of my favorite reads this year. It had me hooked from the first 100 pages. The world and magic system is interesting. It had vibes from multiple stories I have read in the past while still being unique. The author created a medieval type world with sections divided by magic but overrun by this overarching conquering ruler. Women are subservient as typical to our thoughts of the time period. Yet the FMCs are warriors. One by choice and one by chance. The characters are diverse with multiple POVs. The banter is witty and playful. This is a book not afraid to get dark, there is bloody scenes (read the triggers) but it does a beautiful job of using all those dark moments to set the tone and drive the characters. There is mystery and intrigue into this world and a past everyone lost knowledge off. I am dying for book two, and to dive deeper into this world.