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An Heir of Realms
Realm-devouring parasites threaten all existence. The Exchange is desperate to destroy them. But could their radical plans endanger the realms, too?
Soul-sucking parasites are overwhelming the realms.
Rhoswen of Stanburh is of age to train as a Realm Rider—a defender of the realms. Riders and their dragons work together to burn away infiltrating Narxon as they swarm in through tears in a realm’s fabric. But it’s not an easy battle: the mere touch of the smoky, dragon-like adversaries can reduce the lively winged beasts—and their Riders—to ash.
Becoming a Realm Rider is Rhoswen’s dream, but she carries far more responsibility than flying a dragon. Her destiny will pit her against her uncle, Badrick, the king of her realm, who has scorned Rhoswen since before her birth.
Misconceptions about the Narxon are proving as destructive as the parasites themselves.
In the Exchange, the waystation between all realms, new recruit Emmelyn is fighting her own battle to save the realms. Her foe is not only the Narxon but also the insidious G’Ambit, a gambling ring with members more intent on lining their pockets than protecting the realms… or even their own lives.
Emmelyn must convince the higher-ups in the Exchange that the threat is real, starting with her own boss, an avid gambler who despises her tactics.
Both novice heroines must win their respective battles before war can be waged on the Narxon. But are Rhoswen and Emmelyn too far behind to stand a chance?
In An Heir of Realms, book one of the Realm Riders Series, Heather Ashle’s tangled web of worlds and the memorable characters who inhabit them will leave you racing to solve the mysteries surrounding imperfect heroes and tormented villains. But the real question is: which is which?
Soul-sucking parasites are overwhelming the realms.
Rhoswen of Stanburh is of age to train as a Realm Rider—a defender of the realms. Riders and their dragons work together to burn away infiltrating Narxon as they swarm in through tears in a realm’s fabric. But it’s not an easy battle: the mere touch of the smoky, dragon-like adversaries can reduce the lively winged beasts—and their Riders—to ash.
Becoming a Realm Rider is Rhoswen’s dream, but she carries far more responsibility than flying a dragon. Her destiny will pit her against her uncle, Badrick, the king of her realm, who has scorned Rhoswen since before her birth.
Misconceptions about the Narxon are proving as destructive as the parasites themselves.
In the Exchange, the waystation between all realms, new recruit Emmelyn is fighting her own battle to save the realms. Her foe is not only the Narxon but also the insidious G’Ambit, a gambling ring with members more intent on lining their pockets than protecting the realms… or even their own lives.
Emmelyn must convince the higher-ups in the Exchange that the threat is real, starting with her own boss, an avid gambler who despises her tactics.
Both novice heroines must win their respective battles before war can be waged on the Narxon. But are Rhoswen and Emmelyn too far behind to stand a chance?
In An Heir of Realms, book one of the Realm Riders Series, Heather Ashle’s tangled web of worlds and the memorable characters who inhabit them will leave you racing to solve the mysteries surrounding imperfect heroes and tormented villains. But the real question is: which is which?
578 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2022
5 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 29, 2025
This was cool! I have been mostly underwhelmed by every book about dragons that I’ve read since Priory of the Orange Tree, but this one exceeded my expectations! The rules of the Exchange and the magic system were pretty complex, but the author explained them well without being info-dumpy. The writing was incredibly immersive and I could clearly visualize what was going on in every chapter. There were a couple instances where it felt like things just kind of worked out for Rhoswen, which usually annoys me, but the vibes were immaculate so idgaf. I also appreciated that the dragons were gossipy and fickle when most authors resort to them just being old and wise lol. Hoping for more dragon interactions in book 2!
September 25, 2022
An Heir of Realms features Rhosewen and Emmelyn: two young, strong, female protagonists whose dissimilar worlds drift closer together as the story is told. This novel is a fantastic debut by a talented author. Heather Ashle created an engaging tale full of well-developed characters. The book has complexity and nuance but doesn’t make the reader feel like an outsider. The threads of two very different worlds are fantastically woven together; I found myself wishing I could read faster as pieces of the puzzle clicked in place. Book two can’t come soon enough!
May 8, 2025
A wonderful story full of compelling, deep characters and rich, awe inspiring worlds.
Heather Ashle makes each character unique. From the varied personalities of the crew, to the numerous trainees all pursuing the dreams of becoming Riders. Every character has their own motivations, flaws, and ideas.
There are no mustache twirling villains, only complex human beings who have lost parts of their humanity, leading to cruelty, selfishness, and jealousy. Yet they’re written with such craft that they feel real and at times I even found myself feeling empathy for what they’ve gone through.
Our leading ladies steal the show with their determination, wit, and kindness. They seek not only to better their own lives, but to better the lives of everyone in their Realm and others.
The mystery thriller sci-fi adventures of Emmelyn contrast fantastically(see what I did there) with the high fantasy setting of Rhoswen’s tale.
This is a story that can be enjoyed by everyone. It is after all a story of humanity and the struggles we face with others, our society, environment and within ourselves. If it sounds like a large, living world that’s because it is.
I could not recommend this book more highly. It has even surpassed my all time favorites to become my favorite fantasy novel, and more than that, my favorite book!
Until the next Ride!!!
Heather Ashle makes each character unique. From the varied personalities of the crew, to the numerous trainees all pursuing the dreams of becoming Riders. Every character has their own motivations, flaws, and ideas.
There are no mustache twirling villains, only complex human beings who have lost parts of their humanity, leading to cruelty, selfishness, and jealousy. Yet they’re written with such craft that they feel real and at times I even found myself feeling empathy for what they’ve gone through.
Our leading ladies steal the show with their determination, wit, and kindness. They seek not only to better their own lives, but to better the lives of everyone in their Realm and others.
The mystery thriller sci-fi adventures of Emmelyn contrast fantastically(see what I did there) with the high fantasy setting of Rhoswen’s tale.
This is a story that can be enjoyed by everyone. It is after all a story of humanity and the struggles we face with others, our society, environment and within ourselves. If it sounds like a large, living world that’s because it is.
I could not recommend this book more highly. It has even surpassed my all time favorites to become my favorite fantasy novel, and more than that, my favorite book!
Until the next Ride!!!
November 7, 2023
This was an exciting peek into a deeply-developed fantasy world! There is lots to chew on here for readers looking for political intrigue, realm-hopping, and looming existential threats. My favorite scenes involved dragons, both the friendly ones with their own unique personalities and the horrifying ones that can turn you to ash. Excellent flying battle scenes as well!
June 20, 2024
An Heir of Realms is a well-written entry into what promises to be an incredibly engaging fantasy series. We follow two young women, each learning to protect what they love in a very different way: Rhoswen training to ride dragons (can’t go wrong there!) and navigate a monarchy, and Emmelyn coming to understand the intricacies of the Exchange and starting to meddle with the meddlers. Although their worlds are so very different—and yet so real and natural—it is so fun to see how they start to intertwine. The chapters are also nice and short, so it’s easy to justify “just one more.” I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
August 22, 2025
A Thrilling Beginning in a New Fantasy Realm
Heather Ashle’s "An Heir of Realms" masterfully combines fantasy adventure with intricate world-building, setting the stage for a thrilling series that captivates from the very first page. The story revolves around Thane and his sister Rhoswen, who navigate the shadows of their castle while uncovering secrets that could change their realm forever.
The novel opens with a gripping scene as Thane finds himself lost in darkness after a stealthy encounter, creating an immediate sense of tension and curiosity. Ashle’s ability to create vivid imagery allows readers to feel Thane’s isolation and urgency, especially as he seeks to reunite with Rhoswen. Meanwhile, Rhoswen’s discovery in the library showcases her intelligence and determination, adding layers to her character as she pieces together hidden maps with her father’s compass. The juxtaposition of their experiences reveals a deep bond and sets up an intriguing sibling dynamic.
A standout element of the narrative is the introduction of Narxon, a unique antagonist in the form of a dragon-like parasite. This adds an exciting twist to the typical fantasy creature lore, heightening the stakes in the realm threatened by destruction yet also regeneration. Ashle’s imaginative creatures, including the charismatic dragons and the enigmatic Aelfraed, provide depth to the world, enriching the plot as they interact with the main characters.
The idea of Rhoswen’s journey as an Heir Rider who can predict rain and must be safeguarded from her uncle, King Badrick, adds another layer of conflict and intrigue. The political backdrop of a king hiding crucial information and manipulating history is brilliantly executed, making the reader question loyalties and intentions throughout the story.
Interactions among the characters, particularly between Rhoswen, Thane, and their cousin Gethin, are filled with tension and discovery, creating relatable moments amidst the fantastical chaos. Ashle expertly weaves humor and vulnerability into these relationships, drawing the reader in emotionally.
Overall, "An Heir of Realms" is a promising start to the Realm Riders Series, filled with adventure, mystery, and the complexities of familial loyalty. Heather Ashle's skillful storytelling and engaging characters ensure that this book will resonate with fans of fantasy, making it a must-read for anyone eager to immerse themselves in a richly crafted world of realms and riders. I eagerly anticipate what comes next for Thane, Rhoswen, and their friends as they uncover more about their destiny and battle against impending darkness.
Heather Ashle’s "An Heir of Realms" masterfully combines fantasy adventure with intricate world-building, setting the stage for a thrilling series that captivates from the very first page. The story revolves around Thane and his sister Rhoswen, who navigate the shadows of their castle while uncovering secrets that could change their realm forever.
The novel opens with a gripping scene as Thane finds himself lost in darkness after a stealthy encounter, creating an immediate sense of tension and curiosity. Ashle’s ability to create vivid imagery allows readers to feel Thane’s isolation and urgency, especially as he seeks to reunite with Rhoswen. Meanwhile, Rhoswen’s discovery in the library showcases her intelligence and determination, adding layers to her character as she pieces together hidden maps with her father’s compass. The juxtaposition of their experiences reveals a deep bond and sets up an intriguing sibling dynamic.
A standout element of the narrative is the introduction of Narxon, a unique antagonist in the form of a dragon-like parasite. This adds an exciting twist to the typical fantasy creature lore, heightening the stakes in the realm threatened by destruction yet also regeneration. Ashle’s imaginative creatures, including the charismatic dragons and the enigmatic Aelfraed, provide depth to the world, enriching the plot as they interact with the main characters.
The idea of Rhoswen’s journey as an Heir Rider who can predict rain and must be safeguarded from her uncle, King Badrick, adds another layer of conflict and intrigue. The political backdrop of a king hiding crucial information and manipulating history is brilliantly executed, making the reader question loyalties and intentions throughout the story.
Interactions among the characters, particularly between Rhoswen, Thane, and their cousin Gethin, are filled with tension and discovery, creating relatable moments amidst the fantastical chaos. Ashle expertly weaves humor and vulnerability into these relationships, drawing the reader in emotionally.
Overall, "An Heir of Realms" is a promising start to the Realm Riders Series, filled with adventure, mystery, and the complexities of familial loyalty. Heather Ashle's skillful storytelling and engaging characters ensure that this book will resonate with fans of fantasy, making it a must-read for anyone eager to immerse themselves in a richly crafted world of realms and riders. I eagerly anticipate what comes next for Thane, Rhoswen, and their friends as they uncover more about their destiny and battle against impending darkness.
December 26, 2023
I am a mystery junkie. That’s my genre. Sure sometimes I’ll read a bit of horror or a thriller, but mostly it’s gotta be about crime and mystery to get my attention. But every once in a while, I’ll pick up something different, just to stretch the envelope a bit.
“An Heir of Realms” has all the important ingredients for a great story. For a tale about dragons and castles, it was a pleasant surprise to learn that some of the action takes place in modern day Detroit. Players from one realm can step through a portal into another one.
Heather Ashle does an excellent job with her characters. They are well drawn, providing the reader with plenty of insight into their actions and motivations. The dialogue flows smoothly. There are multiple plots at work here, which move the story along at a steady pace. Secrets appear to be the currency of the realm. Everyone has them. The main characters Rhoswen and Thane are in a constant struggle to determine who they can trust.
This is the first novel in the series. I will be watching for book two to hit the shelves in 2024.
Highly recommended.
“An Heir of Realms” has all the important ingredients for a great story. For a tale about dragons and castles, it was a pleasant surprise to learn that some of the action takes place in modern day Detroit. Players from one realm can step through a portal into another one.
Heather Ashle does an excellent job with her characters. They are well drawn, providing the reader with plenty of insight into their actions and motivations. The dialogue flows smoothly. There are multiple plots at work here, which move the story along at a steady pace. Secrets appear to be the currency of the realm. Everyone has them. The main characters Rhoswen and Thane are in a constant struggle to determine who they can trust.
This is the first novel in the series. I will be watching for book two to hit the shelves in 2024.
Highly recommended.
May 5, 2025
Not at all appropriate for under 18. Unnecessarily exposing advanced but young readers, this book referenced used details such as unusual sexual practices. There is pointless sexualization attached to many relationships throughout the book, for example, incestual relationships. Our high school book club selected this based off a description and once we reached a point we were debating whether to finish or not (and we have never asked this question before) one person finished it, shared the recap with the rest and we stopped reading it. Lacks developed characters, rich language, vivid descriptions - we were all left with regret that we’d wasted the time we did reading and discussing.
July 9, 2025
Heather Ashle’s An Heir of Realms is the first book of the Realm Rider Series. The novel is a multi-world, multi-POV, epic fantasy of soldiers who ride dragons, protecting a world.
This novel is best as an intrigue novel wherein different factions are jostling for control. The novel shines at describing the machinations of evil and the countermeasures of good.
An Heir of Realms is a fantasy with more on its mind than simple sword fights and spells. The novel has world-ending stakes, plucky heroes in over their heads, and a set of dragons with unique personalities. What a start to the series!
This novel is best as an intrigue novel wherein different factions are jostling for control. The novel shines at describing the machinations of evil and the countermeasures of good.
An Heir of Realms is a fantasy with more on its mind than simple sword fights and spells. The novel has world-ending stakes, plucky heroes in over their heads, and a set of dragons with unique personalities. What a start to the series!
May 20, 2025
I just love your books! Heather is a local gal, with a great imagination! I have been waiting for book 3!! Can't wait! Keep up the great work Heather, you fly with eagles don't let turkeys harsh your happy! Loyal reader! Kathy
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews