Bibliography
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Books of the UsurperEmpire of Exiles (#1)![]()
Books of the UsurperRelics of Ruin (#2)
Reviews
Books of the Usurper
Empire of Exiles (#1)
"[R]eaders will be drawn in by the memorable cast, vibrantly drawn fantasy cultures, and vivid prose. Epic fantasy fans will be eager to see where the series goes."
"From the rich world building as these remnants of humanity hide from changelings behind a Salt Wall, to the interesting culture, a unique magic system, and a variety of humanoids, readers will be delighted that nothing is predictable in this intriguing story."
"An excellent new fantasy series by Evans (The Devil You Know), perfect for fans of Katherine Addison or those who enjoy slow-burning and complex court intrigue."
"Each character is well-fleshed out, different, and realistic, especially with regard to their internal conflicts and motives."
"Don't be intimidated by the character list and maps, this is a magnificent book that will have you caught up in its intrigue and mystery from the first page to the last."
"I cannot recommend this book enough if you enjoy high fantasy, mystery, political intrigue, or any combination of the three. It was an exciting ride in a brilliant world, and it left me urgently needing the sequel."
"Empire of Exiles by Erin M. Evans is a triumph of fantasy, murder mystery, and political thriller that handles grief, PTSD, panic, and anxiety disorder with tact.... I cannot wait to read what Evans has cooking up for the follow-up."
"This was such a unique and exciting new fantasy story and it really took me back to those cozy, excited feelings I used to have reading a new fantasy while growing up, like you’re stumbling onto something new and special and can’t believe your luck."
"Empire of Exiles is a captivating murder mystery set in a fascinating epic fantasy world, one that will have you flying through the pages to find out everyone’s secrets and motivations."
"Erin M. Evans created a wonderful world in Empire of Exiles. This small – by epic fantasy standards – book is epic in scope. It contains all that I love about good fantasy: politics, magic, and fascinating characters. Quill, Yinii, and Amadea are characters worth following. Empire of Exiles answers some questions from the past but poses more about the future of the Empire. Highly recommended.
"Intrigue, mystery and danger surround the archives at the heart of an Empire [...] Empire of Exiles is a complex, complicated and meaty secondary world fantasy that is ALSO a murder mystery."
"Empire of Exiles is spectacular, a feast for those who crave complex characters and sinister plots."
"Empire of Exiles is a great book and I really enjoyed unraveling the mysteries within it."
"The rich and detailed world with a melting pot of fantasy themed cultures, interesting magic systems, and complex characters that feel like real people are some of the best I’ve ever read about. [...] If you’re looking for an exciting murder mystery in a fantasy setting, then this is the book for you!"
“Erin Evans is a wonderful writer because she can make the reader care deeply about her characters, offering details and anecdotes, quirks and simple gestures to make those characters so very real. That character-building is on in full in 'Empire of Exiles,' but what makes this book special even by Erin’s lofty goalposts is the world she weaves around these characters. Detailed and mysterious, a place to explore and relish. 'Empire of Exiles' is highly recommended!”R.A. Salvatore, author or “The Legend of Drizzt” and the DemonWars novels
“The beginning of a truly epic tale. Deft worldbuilding and wonderful verbal fencing that is a delight to read. In these pages, you are in the hands of a master.”Ed Greenwood, creator of the Forgotten Realms and internationally bestselling author
“Empire of Exiles has it all: characters I love, intertwined compelling mysteries in the past and present, plot twists that keep coming, and a unique and fascinating world and magic system! One of my favorite books of the year!"Melissa Caruso, author of the Swords and Fire Trilogy
“Beautifully wrought and equally ensnaring, this book lived up to and then surpassed all my expectations.”Cat Rambo, author of You Sexy Thing
“Splendid world building, compelling mysteries and characters, and a fascinating magic system. Erin Evans delivers the goods.”Howard Jones, author of For the Killing of Kings
“With unrivaled worldbuilding, a compelling mystery to unravel and a found family that stole my heart a dozen times over, Empire of Exiles is one of those stories you can truly sink your teeth into. There are so many layers to the world and characters Evans has created. It’s a deeply satisfying read, and I know it will stay with me for a long time to come. I can’t wait for the next book!”H. M. Long, author of Hall of Smoke
Relics of Ruin (#2)
"Evans skillfully expands the world building while exploring the character depths, with delightful twists that resolve some conflicts while setting up the next book."Booklist
"Erin Evans can make the reader care deeply about her characters, offering details and anecdotes, quirks and simple gestures to make those characters so very real. But what makes this book special, even by Erin's lofty goalposts, is the world she weaves around these characters. Detailed and mysterious, a place to explore and relish. Highly recommended!"R.A. Salvatore, Author of The Legends of Drizzt
"Relics of Ruin was a welcome return to a world I have grown very fond of. While some of my questions remain unanswered (for now), it was another twisty mystery that delved into the complicated politics and history of the empire, as echoes of a past coup still cause strife in the present day. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the sequel and eagerly look forward to the finale and perhaps finally seeing what is really happening on the other side of that wall."
"Relics of Ruins is astounding, a worthy continuation to what is amping up to be a new favorite series."