Kings of Paradise (Ash and Sand Book 1) Kindle Edition by Richard Nell

Kings of Paradise by Richard Nell is an epic, dark fantasy that intertwines the fates of two young men from vastly different worlds. Ruka, born deformed and reviled as a demon in the harsh wastelands of Ascom, survives through his mother's love and his own formidable intellect. Consumed by a desire for vengeance, he must first endure countless challenges to stay alive.

Across the sea in the idyllic yet politically complex island of Sri Kon, Kale, the youngest and least impressive son of the Sorcerer King, faces his own struggles. At sixteen, he's forced to serve with the low-born marines to prove his worth and secure his future. Both Ruka and Kale are on the brink of transformative journeys that will shape their destinies.

This award-winning novel, praised for its intricate world-building, rich political landscape, and deeply developed characters, sets the stage for an inevitable collision of these two lives. As their paths converge, the stakes are high—only one can rise to become king in a world where brutality and cunning rule.

Kings of Paradise is the first installment of a low-fantasy trilogy that captivates readers with its moral complexity, environmental challenges, and beautiful prose, drawing comparisons to George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire. It is a must-read for fans of immersive, character-driven fantasy epics.