At a glance
Epic fantasy
Nolyn
Book 1 of the The Rise and Fall series
448 pages · First published 2023
After more than five hundred years of exile, Nolyn, the estranged son of Emperor Nyphron, is unexpectedly ordered to the front lines of the Goblin War. His mission seems straightforward: rescue an isolated imperial outpost. But when the outpost proves nonexistent and his troops are trapped deep in enemy territory, Nolyn realizes someone has arranged for him to die. His unexpected allies are the soldiers of the Seventh Sikaria Auxiliary Squadron, whose extraordinary fighting skills may be his only hope of survival. Meanwhile, Sephryn, Nolyn's longtime love and a passionate advocate for human equality, faces a different nightmare when her infant son is kidnapped. Forced into a dangerous scheme to save him, she uncovers threats that reach into the heart of the empire. As conspiracy, ancient magic, and political ambition bring their paths together, both must decide what they are willing to sacrifice for those they love. This epic fantasy adventure will appeal to readers who enjoy military camaraderie, powerful family legacies, political intrigue, and courageous characters fighting against impossible odds.
Blackberry Sage Tea + Pharaoh's Gold
Choose your bookseller
Find the Book
Print retailers offer a search when an exact edition is unavailable. Kindle links open a specific edition. Audiobook links may open an edition or a search.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Book Bartender earns from qualifying purchases. Bookshop.org links also earn us a commission on qualifying purchases. Your price is not affected. Read the full affiliate disclosure.
No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Fantasy battle violence, bloody injuries, magical combat, murder, and deaths. An infant is kidnapped and threatened with death. Blackmail, extortion, coercion, betrayal, and an assassination plot. Political oppression and discrimination against humans, along with family estrangement and emotional distress. Romantic attachment and relationship conflict. Mild fantasy-world profanity.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Blackberry Sage Tea
Wild blackberries and fragrant sage bring a touch of Elan's ancient wilderness to a story of deadly battles, hidden conspiracies, and unexpected alliances.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Mug.
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Pharaoh's Gold
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Golden honey, bourbon, and bitters reflect Nolyn's imperial inheritance and the difficult choices awaiting an heir determined to challenge the empire's legacy.
What you'll need
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice ↗
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water) ↗
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- ice
How to mix it
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, honey syrup, and bitters to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until well chilled, then strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Rocks glass ↗Cocktail shaker ↗Set up the bar cart
Shop the Barware
Find the glasses and tools for your next pour.