Dive into the electrifying world of King’s Dark Tidings, where a shadowy warrior named Rezkin slices through epic fantasy with unmatched skill and mystery! Written by Kel Kade, this series blends heart-pounding action, intricate world-building, and a touch of humor, captivating readers who crave adventure and intrigue. Since its debut, it’s carved a niche as a must-read for fantasy fans.
Step into the Kingdom of Ashai, where Rezkin, raised in seclusion and trained as the ultimate weapon, embarks on a quest to uncover his identity and purpose. With a mad king, mythical creatures, and political schemes lurking, this series delivers a rollercoaster of thrills!
How King’s Dark Tidings Began
Kel Kade, a Texas-based geoscientist-turned-author, launched King’s Dark Tidings with Free the Darkness in 2016. Drawing from her love of epic fantasy and a background in science and cultural anthropology, Kade crafted a vivid world inspired by her wanderlust and fascination with ancient history. Initially self-published, the series skyrocketed to a #1 Amazon Epic Fantasy bestseller, fueled by enthusiastic reader support and Kade’s knack for character-driven storytelling.
Kade’s inspiration stemmed from wanting a hero who was both overpowered and deeply flawed. Rezkin’s journey began as a side project while Kade worked on another series set in the same universe, but his story took over, resonating with fans for its fresh take on the classic fantasy trope of the chosen warrior.
The Heart of King’s Dark Tidings
The series kicks off with Free the Darkness, where Rezkin, after a devastating battle destroys his secretive fortress, ventures into the unknown to find answers about his existence. Armed with mystical weapons and unmatched skills, he gathers an eclectic crew of companions, leading to humorous and heartfelt moments. Reign of Madness escalates the stakes as Rezkin navigates a kingdom unraveling under a tyrannical ruler, deepening the political intrigue.
Legends of Ahn shifts toward magical elements, introducing mythical beings like elves and demons, while Dragons and Demons (Book 5) explores darker themes and Rezkin’s evolving emotions, a fan-favorite development. The latest, Knight of Shadows (Book 6), continues Rezkin’s saga with new revelations. Themes of identity, loyalty, and destiny weave through the series, set in a richly detailed world of kingdoms, mages, and shapeshifters. Kade’s fast-paced style and Rezkin’s socially awkward yet lethal persona keep readers hooked.
Kade intentionally limits insight into supporting characters from Rezkin’s perspective, mirroring his own detachment, but occasional glimpses into their minds add depth. This narrative choice, paired with epic battles and subtle humor, makes the series stand out in the high fantasy genre.
Why King’s Dark Tidings Resonates
King’s Dark Tidings has cultivated a devoted fanbase, with readers praising its blend of action, mystery, and character growth. Rezkin’s journey from a robotic warrior to a figure grappling with emotions strikes a chord, while Kade’s world-building, grounded in her scientific background, feels immersive and believable. The series’ impact lies in its ability to balance epic stakes with personal struggles, appealing to fans of authors like Brandon Sanderson or Patrick Rothfuss.
Despite mixed reviews on later books’ romantic subplots, the series’ loyal following and Kade’s engagement with fans via newsletters and AMAs highlight its staying power. Its influence extends to inspiring fan art and discussions on platforms like Reddit, cementing its place in modern fantasy.
- First Book Published: 2016 (Free the Darkness)
- Number of Books: 6 (as of 2025)
- Genre: Epic Fantasy
- Notable Narrator: Nick Podehl (audiobooks)
Ready for a fantasy adventure that’s equal parts thrilling and heartfelt? Grab Free the Darkness and join Rezkin’s quest in the captivating world of King’s Dark Tidings!