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The Red Kingdom #3
Path of Strangers
Dark skies are brewing over Abalreen. A battle is coming, and everyone is learning who their real enemy is. Rhael never imagined he’d be caught between two powers in the Red Kingdom, but his past is coming back to haunt him and his ability isn’t working the way it used to, problems that couldn’t have come at a worse time.
Phessipi is desperate for an advantage in her struggle against The Order, but some are more costly than others. No weapon is worth losing the hand that holds it. She seeks unlikely allies who might be more trouble than they’re worth.
Levas is an army of one, two if Pascale counts, but his new quest comes at a price, and trust isn’t something that comes easily. Death isn’t the worst that can happen.
Read Path of Strangers and see what’s next for these groups of rebels, disgraced commanders, and magic users.
Phessipi is desperate for an advantage in her struggle against The Order, but some are more costly than others. No weapon is worth losing the hand that holds it. She seeks unlikely allies who might be more trouble than they’re worth.
Levas is an army of one, two if Pascale counts, but his new quest comes at a price, and trust isn’t something that comes easily. Death isn’t the worst that can happen.
Read Path of Strangers and see what’s next for these groups of rebels, disgraced commanders, and magic users.
682 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2022
3 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Lanz
9 books44 followersRyan Lanz was born and raised on the island of Oahu in Hawaii until he was a teenager and then lived in California for a time. He enjoyed a brief experience with film before becoming involved in the performing arts, touring with a music performance group as a vocalist to a dozen countries on three continents over the length of five years.
His first published work was Unknown Sender, and he looks forward to many more in a variety of genres.
He also enjoys blogging about the culture of writing and brings on guest authors to share their writing tips. For more information, go to www.RyanLanz.com .
His first published work was Unknown Sender, and he looks forward to many more in a variety of genres.
He also enjoys blogging about the culture of writing and brings on guest authors to share their writing tips. For more information, go to www.RyanLanz.com .
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
April 25, 2025
The Order continues its ruthless pursuit of the corrupted. With a new terrifying weapon. One that will strip the abilities of their foes.
And perhaps, their resolve.
Another trip into the oppressive Red Kingdom! Lots of moving pieces with surprising humour in a dark realm!
Path of Strangers continues to branch out the cast. What makes this series great is you never know who to trust. There is plays for power and a lot of deceit.
A few of our leading characters wrestle with their internal struggles. It makes for a complex messy world.
I found this one more humorous than the previous ones as well. Some great banter in all the groups. In addition, we also travel to a Kenzess village which was quite entertaining. Definitely finding a great balance of darkness, danger and fun.
The introduction of new game changer crystals has made me excited for the next battles too.
Excellent!
Thanks to the author for providing me this copy for review!
And perhaps, their resolve.
Another trip into the oppressive Red Kingdom! Lots of moving pieces with surprising humour in a dark realm!
Path of Strangers continues to branch out the cast. What makes this series great is you never know who to trust. There is plays for power and a lot of deceit.
A few of our leading characters wrestle with their internal struggles. It makes for a complex messy world.
I found this one more humorous than the previous ones as well. Some great banter in all the groups. In addition, we also travel to a Kenzess village which was quite entertaining. Definitely finding a great balance of darkness, danger and fun.
The introduction of new game changer crystals has made me excited for the next battles too.
Excellent!
Thanks to the author for providing me this copy for review!
April 7, 2025
The journey continues in author Ryan Lanz’s third installment to his Red Kingdom series, Path of Strangers. If you are ready to find out where things are going for some of your favorite characters, then this is the time to discover it for yourself. Enemies are coming out of the woodwork, and alliances are being struck. But who can you really trust when almost everyone is in a quest for more power?
Path of Strangers draws the eye of readers with a cover that depicts a city looming up overhead in the background. The city is immense with arched gateways and spiraling towers dominating the skyline. Readers get the impression of an opulent city packed with grandness and potentially a place of opportunity for those looking for it. The city is set against a rust colored skyline with clouds brewing overhead.
Almost makes you think there might be a dragon lurking in those clouds. But there aren’t any...dragons, that is. In the foreground, a lone man walks towards the city. His hair in a top knot, a cloak billowing behind him, and his right hand alight with flame. In front of him, small white birds scatter towards the sky and the city as he walks with confidence towards his destiny.
Path of Strangers picks up where The Way of Stones left off. Rhael, Gobo, and Bendrish are making their way through the forest after a less-than-ideal encounter with Krimesh. Rhael’s quest to get back to Ihesi for counsel appears to be dead in the water. After a dangerous encounter with soldiers associated with The Order, it called for a change of tactics.
Now, author Lanz has Gobo leading Rhael and company back to his home, Collinsmallow. Things are definitely kicking off on an interesting note in Path of Strangers. Rhael’s desire to find answers as to what is happening to his hand is what is primarily driving him. He fears losing it forever as the frequency of its disappearance is increasing. The question of whether Uncle Hicksrit will be of any assistance is a legitimate one. Guess we’ll find out.
While Rhael is on a quest for answers at the beginning of Path of Strangers, author Lanz prepares a little surprise for readers. We’re closer than we know to Collinsmallow. Here in this place, we’ll get to learn more about Gobo and his people. Gobo is depicted as the outlier of the community. His “merchant” trade is, oddly enough, frowned upon. Curious as to why? Well, author Lanz takes time to explain this through Hicksrit.
Scattered throughout Path of Strangers are hidden secrets that will gradually come to light one at a time. In these first few chapters of this book, one such secret will be discovered. Uncle Hicksrit has been keeping secrets, and those secrets are about to come to light. But so is a new capability of Rhael’s. Prepare for eyebrows to be raised.
While Rhael and Gobo are off in Collinsmallow searching for answers to Rhael’s pressing questions, Path of Strangers picks up where Levas and Pascale left off. They are still in Abalreen where Levas should not be, because he’s been banished. Author Lanz paints Levas as highly realistic with his stubborn desire to answer. Unfortunately, his time...has just about run out. Why do we say this? Because trouble is knocking...literally.
Path of Strangers follows the rest of the Red Kingdom series by being told from the third-person POV. The story alternates between a wide variety of familiar characters from the series. Rhael and Phessipi continue to be the primary focus of the story on the ability user side, and Levas remains the focus on the side of The Order. Well, as close as he can be seeing as he’s been kicked out. However, there are plenty of other characters who add to the drama.
Characters who were introduced in A Way of Stones are still very much around. Levas may think that he’s seen the last of his former travel companions, but one in particular has a bone to pick with Levas. Odriss is looking for ways to subdue the “Corrupted,” and he just might have found the one thing that can help him.
Path of Strangers moves at a mostly moderate pace. There are moments where the drama will pull you to the edge of your seat and have you page-turning to find out what happens next. Author Lanz has Rhael discovering an individual from his past. What happens when they talk...you will never see coming. Author Lanz will have your jaw on the floor.
The character in Path of Strangers who will have you scratching your head will be Levas. Despite the fact that he has been betrayed again and again by those who serve The Order...he clings to them. We readers can see the toxicity that is The Order, but Levas is intent on doing whatever he feels he needs to rejoin them. It’s eyebrow-raising. So eyebrow raising ,even Pascale does a double take a few times.
Of course, these character “anomalies” will push readers to dig deeper into this story. Rhael and Phessipi are on a quest to find safety for those who have abilities. If it means bringing down The Order in order to do so, then that is the mission that they will take on. But they should beware of one in their midst who is not who they seem.
Path of Strangers is an interesting story that carries a variety of dynamics. With each introduction of a new character, it creates a new layer to the story. We worry at times that a character will get lost in the wide cast, but it works. It’s like author Lanz is simply cutting a new facet into the jewel that is the Red Kingdom series.
When it comes to Path of Strangers, this book’s ending is less pressing than those that came before it. Instead, you get the sense that this series is gradually building to something big. Phessipi is moving her people forward. Levas has a “ticket” he thinks will do him good in the eyes of The Order. But it’s Odriss that we will need to keep the closest eye on. How will things shake out? Well, we’ll just have to wait and see.
Readers who enjoy epic fantasy series will want to dig into Path of Strangers to discover the secrets hidden within. Rhael discovers an element of his past, Phessipi takes a step closer to war, and Levas strives to trying to reclaim what was once his. The drama continues to build with this series, and only time will tell where the fallout happens.
Path of Strangers is intriguing and showcases good storyline development. Readers will be drawn into the story and kept engaged in what unfolds. While the ending is soft and not as riveting as previous books, it will still draw readers to reach for the next book in this series.
Pros:
• Introduces a nice amount of new characters.
• Builds intrigue.
• Picks up where the previous book left off.
• Interesting storyline.
• Continues to bring the drama.
Cons:
• None of merit
Cover Score: 9.5/10
Overall Book Score: 9.5/10
Path of Strangers draws the eye of readers with a cover that depicts a city looming up overhead in the background. The city is immense with arched gateways and spiraling towers dominating the skyline. Readers get the impression of an opulent city packed with grandness and potentially a place of opportunity for those looking for it. The city is set against a rust colored skyline with clouds brewing overhead.
Almost makes you think there might be a dragon lurking in those clouds. But there aren’t any...dragons, that is. In the foreground, a lone man walks towards the city. His hair in a top knot, a cloak billowing behind him, and his right hand alight with flame. In front of him, small white birds scatter towards the sky and the city as he walks with confidence towards his destiny.
Path of Strangers picks up where The Way of Stones left off. Rhael, Gobo, and Bendrish are making their way through the forest after a less-than-ideal encounter with Krimesh. Rhael’s quest to get back to Ihesi for counsel appears to be dead in the water. After a dangerous encounter with soldiers associated with The Order, it called for a change of tactics.
Now, author Lanz has Gobo leading Rhael and company back to his home, Collinsmallow. Things are definitely kicking off on an interesting note in Path of Strangers. Rhael’s desire to find answers as to what is happening to his hand is what is primarily driving him. He fears losing it forever as the frequency of its disappearance is increasing. The question of whether Uncle Hicksrit will be of any assistance is a legitimate one. Guess we’ll find out.
While Rhael is on a quest for answers at the beginning of Path of Strangers, author Lanz prepares a little surprise for readers. We’re closer than we know to Collinsmallow. Here in this place, we’ll get to learn more about Gobo and his people. Gobo is depicted as the outlier of the community. His “merchant” trade is, oddly enough, frowned upon. Curious as to why? Well, author Lanz takes time to explain this through Hicksrit.
Scattered throughout Path of Strangers are hidden secrets that will gradually come to light one at a time. In these first few chapters of this book, one such secret will be discovered. Uncle Hicksrit has been keeping secrets, and those secrets are about to come to light. But so is a new capability of Rhael’s. Prepare for eyebrows to be raised.
While Rhael and Gobo are off in Collinsmallow searching for answers to Rhael’s pressing questions, Path of Strangers picks up where Levas and Pascale left off. They are still in Abalreen where Levas should not be, because he’s been banished. Author Lanz paints Levas as highly realistic with his stubborn desire to answer. Unfortunately, his time...has just about run out. Why do we say this? Because trouble is knocking...literally.
Path of Strangers follows the rest of the Red Kingdom series by being told from the third-person POV. The story alternates between a wide variety of familiar characters from the series. Rhael and Phessipi continue to be the primary focus of the story on the ability user side, and Levas remains the focus on the side of The Order. Well, as close as he can be seeing as he’s been kicked out. However, there are plenty of other characters who add to the drama.
Characters who were introduced in A Way of Stones are still very much around. Levas may think that he’s seen the last of his former travel companions, but one in particular has a bone to pick with Levas. Odriss is looking for ways to subdue the “Corrupted,” and he just might have found the one thing that can help him.
Path of Strangers moves at a mostly moderate pace. There are moments where the drama will pull you to the edge of your seat and have you page-turning to find out what happens next. Author Lanz has Rhael discovering an individual from his past. What happens when they talk...you will never see coming. Author Lanz will have your jaw on the floor.
The character in Path of Strangers who will have you scratching your head will be Levas. Despite the fact that he has been betrayed again and again by those who serve The Order...he clings to them. We readers can see the toxicity that is The Order, but Levas is intent on doing whatever he feels he needs to rejoin them. It’s eyebrow-raising. So eyebrow raising ,even Pascale does a double take a few times.
Of course, these character “anomalies” will push readers to dig deeper into this story. Rhael and Phessipi are on a quest to find safety for those who have abilities. If it means bringing down The Order in order to do so, then that is the mission that they will take on. But they should beware of one in their midst who is not who they seem.
Path of Strangers is an interesting story that carries a variety of dynamics. With each introduction of a new character, it creates a new layer to the story. We worry at times that a character will get lost in the wide cast, but it works. It’s like author Lanz is simply cutting a new facet into the jewel that is the Red Kingdom series.
When it comes to Path of Strangers, this book’s ending is less pressing than those that came before it. Instead, you get the sense that this series is gradually building to something big. Phessipi is moving her people forward. Levas has a “ticket” he thinks will do him good in the eyes of The Order. But it’s Odriss that we will need to keep the closest eye on. How will things shake out? Well, we’ll just have to wait and see.
Readers who enjoy epic fantasy series will want to dig into Path of Strangers to discover the secrets hidden within. Rhael discovers an element of his past, Phessipi takes a step closer to war, and Levas strives to trying to reclaim what was once his. The drama continues to build with this series, and only time will tell where the fallout happens.
Path of Strangers is intriguing and showcases good storyline development. Readers will be drawn into the story and kept engaged in what unfolds. While the ending is soft and not as riveting as previous books, it will still draw readers to reach for the next book in this series.
Pros:
• Introduces a nice amount of new characters.
• Builds intrigue.
• Picks up where the previous book left off.
• Interesting storyline.
• Continues to bring the drama.
Cons:
• None of merit
Cover Score: 9.5/10
Overall Book Score: 9.5/10
March 27, 2025
"Path of Strangers", the third book in 'The Red Kingdom' series by Ryan Lanz, is a compelling fantasy adventure that delves into themes of friendship, survival, and self-discovery. The story follows Rhael, Gobo, and Zendrish as they navigate treacherous forests and evade pursuing soldiers while seeking refuge in Wollinsmallow. Lanz crafts a vivid world filled with danger and intrigue, blending moments of humor with darker undertones. The narrative explores the complexities of camaraderie, particularly through Rhael’s interactions with his companions, highlighting how loyalty and trust are tested in dire circumstances.
Character Dynamics
The strength of the book lies in its richly drawn characters. Rhael is a conflicted protagonist burdened by guilt and uncertainty about his mysterious ailment—a disappearing hand connected to past trauma. His relationship with Gobo, a quirky and optimistic companion, provides much-needed levity amidst the tension. Zendrish’s stoic presence adds balance to the trio, though her guarded demeanor hints at deeper layers yet to be explored. The dialogue between the characters is sharp and engaging, showcasing their distinct personalities while driving the plot forward. Lanz effectively portrays the dynamics of friendship under strain, making their interactions both relatable and emotionally resonant.
World-Building and Atmosphere
Lanz excels in creating an immersive setting with his detailed descriptions of the sprawling forest and its hidden dangers. Wollinsmallow, though not yet reached by the protagonists in this excerpt, is hinted at as a place of mystery and potential salvation. The author’s ability to weave environmental details into the narrative enhances the sense of urgency and isolation felt by the characters. The supernatural elements—such as Rhael’s vanishing hand—add intrigue without overshadowing the human struggles at the heart of the story. This balance between fantastical and grounded storytelling keeps readers invested in both the characters' journey and the stakes they face.
Writing Style and Final Thoughts
Ryan Lanz’s writing is accessible yet evocative, blending humor with moments of introspection that deepen the emotional impact of the story. The pacing is deliberate but engaging, allowing readers to savor character development while maintaining a sense of forward momentum. While some plot points remain unresolved in this excerpt—such as Rhael’s ailment—the book sets up intriguing questions that promise satisfying answers as the series progresses. "Path of Strangers" is a testament to Lanz’s skill in crafting an engaging fantasy tale that balances action, emotion, and world-building seamlessly. Fans of epic fantasy will find much to enjoy in this installment.
Character Dynamics
The strength of the book lies in its richly drawn characters. Rhael is a conflicted protagonist burdened by guilt and uncertainty about his mysterious ailment—a disappearing hand connected to past trauma. His relationship with Gobo, a quirky and optimistic companion, provides much-needed levity amidst the tension. Zendrish’s stoic presence adds balance to the trio, though her guarded demeanor hints at deeper layers yet to be explored. The dialogue between the characters is sharp and engaging, showcasing their distinct personalities while driving the plot forward. Lanz effectively portrays the dynamics of friendship under strain, making their interactions both relatable and emotionally resonant.
World-Building and Atmosphere
Lanz excels in creating an immersive setting with his detailed descriptions of the sprawling forest and its hidden dangers. Wollinsmallow, though not yet reached by the protagonists in this excerpt, is hinted at as a place of mystery and potential salvation. The author’s ability to weave environmental details into the narrative enhances the sense of urgency and isolation felt by the characters. The supernatural elements—such as Rhael’s vanishing hand—add intrigue without overshadowing the human struggles at the heart of the story. This balance between fantastical and grounded storytelling keeps readers invested in both the characters' journey and the stakes they face.
Writing Style and Final Thoughts
Ryan Lanz’s writing is accessible yet evocative, blending humor with moments of introspection that deepen the emotional impact of the story. The pacing is deliberate but engaging, allowing readers to savor character development while maintaining a sense of forward momentum. While some plot points remain unresolved in this excerpt—such as Rhael’s ailment—the book sets up intriguing questions that promise satisfying answers as the series progresses. "Path of Strangers" is a testament to Lanz’s skill in crafting an engaging fantasy tale that balances action, emotion, and world-building seamlessly. Fans of epic fantasy will find much to enjoy in this installment.
April 7, 2025
Rhael and Gobo are back along with Levas and a variety of other characters. Drama is licking at their heels and will not let up. While this book is moderately paced it will absolutely keep you intrigued as to what is going to happen next.
Rhael’s hand keeps disappearing. He fears that one day it will disappear for good and never return. He receives some strange advice from Gobo’s uncle, but it makes some odd sense. Wait till you read what happens later. Levas is still struggling with what The Order and fate have dealt him. His desire push him onto a path towards what he hopes will be redemption...but at what cost?
This book is a good addition to the series and kept me coming back to find out what happens next. I look forward to picking up the next book in this series.
Rhael’s hand keeps disappearing. He fears that one day it will disappear for good and never return. He receives some strange advice from Gobo’s uncle, but it makes some odd sense. Wait till you read what happens later. Levas is still struggling with what The Order and fate have dealt him. His desire push him onto a path towards what he hopes will be redemption...but at what cost?
This book is a good addition to the series and kept me coming back to find out what happens next. I look forward to picking up the next book in this series.
May 1, 2025
Rhael's adventures and Gobo's shenanigans continue in the third installment of The Red Kingdom series!
Along with some other people too I guess..
I jest, I love most of the cast of the series. The stakes are upping for the ability users in this book very rapidly, and The Order is becoming more aggressive in their tactics of dealing with the ability users. Rhael is stepping up more and more as our main character, and I'm loving seeing him become a more well rounded character.
I still have some wild theories about what I think is going to happen, there's a few I'm hoping do happen, and a few I don't! I'm hoping we get soem more clear answers soon about some of the things happening in the Red Kingdom!
This was a super solid read, and Gobo fans (meeee) will love the beginning!
Thank you to Ryan Lanz for providing me a copy of Path of Strangers!
Along with some other people too I guess..
I jest, I love most of the cast of the series. The stakes are upping for the ability users in this book very rapidly, and The Order is becoming more aggressive in their tactics of dealing with the ability users. Rhael is stepping up more and more as our main character, and I'm loving seeing him become a more well rounded character.
I still have some wild theories about what I think is going to happen, there's a few I'm hoping do happen, and a few I don't! I'm hoping we get soem more clear answers soon about some of the things happening in the Red Kingdom!
This was a super solid read, and Gobo fans (meeee) will love the beginning!
Thank you to Ryan Lanz for providing me a copy of Path of Strangers!
June 18, 2025
The Red Kingdom series is known for its well-drawn characters and complex plots, and fans will be delighted to learn that the third book—Path of Strangers—delivers both once again. This installment finds major characters like Rhael, Levas, and Phessipi at crossroads in their lives. And Gobo aficionados will be pleased to hear that we learn a lot more about him, too. In addition, there are explosive action scenes and plenty of twists and turns for adventure lovers. Readers of high fantasy will find plenty to enjoy.
June 29, 2025
This was a much slower paced book in the series compared especially with book one, but book 2 as well. However, I do like the overarching plot is moving forward with much clearer direction and I’m still interested to learn more about the world and the chaos to come.
January 1, 2025
Incredible book! I recommend it for all readers.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews