What do you think?
Rate this book
The Assays of Ata
Bitch.
Bastard.
Orphan.
Ata had become inured to these epithets—her self-directed labels cut much deeper:
Spy.
Liar.
Traitor.
Their accuracy rent to the bone... But all people had their roles to play and hers was one of secrecy and survival-driven destruction.
For the greater good.
Follow Ata's travails through royal intrigues, violent invasions, and hard-forged alliances as she fights alongside friend and foe for the survival of the continent of Áitarbith. She questions old relationships and forges new ones whilst navigating treacherous courts and brutal battle landscapes, possibly finding love along the way.
In the face of an implacably ruthless enemy, as well as uncertainty as to who can be trusted, the final outcome of this struggle is anything but certain.
This is Book 1 of 'The Chronicles of Áitarbith'.
Bastard.
Orphan.
Ata had become inured to these epithets—her self-directed labels cut much deeper:
Spy.
Liar.
Traitor.
Their accuracy rent to the bone... But all people had their roles to play and hers was one of secrecy and survival-driven destruction.
For the greater good.
Follow Ata's travails through royal intrigues, violent invasions, and hard-forged alliances as she fights alongside friend and foe for the survival of the continent of Áitarbith. She questions old relationships and forges new ones whilst navigating treacherous courts and brutal battle landscapes, possibly finding love along the way.
In the face of an implacably ruthless enemy, as well as uncertainty as to who can be trusted, the final outcome of this struggle is anything but certain.
This is Book 1 of 'The Chronicles of Áitarbith'.
- GenresFantasy
622 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2024
4 people are currently reading
1309 people want to read
About the author
K.I.S.
2 books45 followersProcrastinator.
Putterer.
Escapist.
Despite growing up in sunny South Africa within walking distance of the wide, sandy beach, K.I.S. was forever carrying a book around and hiding out of sight somewhere, getting lost in the drama on the page. To this day, her idea of perfection is a cup of tea, a comfortable armchair, and a good book (not breaking the bookish, nerdy stereotype at all). To complete this cosy picture, she is also an avid knitter and crocheter, with a definite penchant for cats.
Her first, full-length story was about two ducks that go on a farmyard adventure, bashed out on her mother's dated typewriter at the ripe old age of seven. An English teacher by trade, K.I.S. always envisioned herself as a writer but never got around to actually completing a story after her epic poultry caper… Until now.
Her greatest ambition, like Jo March, is to move beyond the (admittedly ever-supportive) readership of her sisters and family, and share her tales with others.
(Photo credit: Greta Kumm Fotografie)
Putterer.
Escapist.
Despite growing up in sunny South Africa within walking distance of the wide, sandy beach, K.I.S. was forever carrying a book around and hiding out of sight somewhere, getting lost in the drama on the page. To this day, her idea of perfection is a cup of tea, a comfortable armchair, and a good book (not breaking the bookish, nerdy stereotype at all). To complete this cosy picture, she is also an avid knitter and crocheter, with a definite penchant for cats.
Her first, full-length story was about two ducks that go on a farmyard adventure, bashed out on her mother's dated typewriter at the ripe old age of seven. An English teacher by trade, K.I.S. always envisioned herself as a writer but never got around to actually completing a story after her epic poultry caper… Until now.
Her greatest ambition, like Jo March, is to move beyond the (admittedly ever-supportive) readership of her sisters and family, and share her tales with others.
(Photo credit: Greta Kumm Fotografie)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 12, 2025
4.5 ★
I’m still reeling from that massive cliffhanger! This was an epic fantasy filled with unexpected twists, stunning worldbuilding, and a fresh, creative take on magic. The writing style took some getting used to (and my vocabulary may or may not have leveled up), but once I got into the rhythm, I was hooked.
Some chapters dragged a little, and I wished a few were shorter for pacing’s sake, but the plot, characters, and detailed descriptions more than made up for it. I can’t wait to see where book two takes us—especially to finally learn where Iansso keeps disappearing to!
I’m still reeling from that massive cliffhanger! This was an epic fantasy filled with unexpected twists, stunning worldbuilding, and a fresh, creative take on magic. The writing style took some getting used to (and my vocabulary may or may not have leveled up), but once I got into the rhythm, I was hooked.
Some chapters dragged a little, and I wished a few were shorter for pacing’s sake, but the plot, characters, and detailed descriptions more than made up for it. I can’t wait to see where book two takes us—especially to finally learn where Iansso keeps disappearing to!
January 4, 2025
Thoroughly Enjoyed
I really enjoyed the way this book read. It had a little bit of magic not overdone and a lot of intriguing events. The protagonist of the story was written very well. I am quite looking forward to continuing the series.
I really enjoyed the way this book read. It had a little bit of magic not overdone and a lot of intriguing events. The protagonist of the story was written very well. I am quite looking forward to continuing the series.
June 23, 2024
Summary:
Ata is a spy in training for Pandi. Her first assignment is to go to Cinnae and become a part of the royal household’s wait staff. General Svens and Ians figure out she is a spy. Svens doesn’t like her and definitely doesn’t trust her. Their palace comes under attack and Ata risks her life to save the youngest two Cinnae heirs.
Will her return to Pandi be the end of this assignment or will it just be the beginning of a war?
My thoughts:
I don’t typically read this type of book but it seemed interesting so I decided to sign up for a blog tour through @travelling.pages.tours and I’m glad I did.
It took a while to get into the story because nothing really happens until page 72. There are a few other “quiet” spots in the book but for the most part once the action starts it doesn’t stop. Ata is learning she has the power to heal.
Pandial and Cinnae council agree to an arranged marriage between Ata and Sevns. I’m hoping we see more from them together in book 2. I’m not going to lie I was hoping he was the one following Ata and Min at the end.
The Assays of Ata ends on a cliffhanger and I am hoping book 2 comes out soon because I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thank you @travelling.pages.tours and @master_of_noniin for the complimentary copy as part of the blog tour
Ata is a spy in training for Pandi. Her first assignment is to go to Cinnae and become a part of the royal household’s wait staff. General Svens and Ians figure out she is a spy. Svens doesn’t like her and definitely doesn’t trust her. Their palace comes under attack and Ata risks her life to save the youngest two Cinnae heirs.
Will her return to Pandi be the end of this assignment or will it just be the beginning of a war?
My thoughts:
I don’t typically read this type of book but it seemed interesting so I decided to sign up for a blog tour through @travelling.pages.tours and I’m glad I did.
It took a while to get into the story because nothing really happens until page 72. There are a few other “quiet” spots in the book but for the most part once the action starts it doesn’t stop. Ata is learning she has the power to heal.
Pandial and Cinnae council agree to an arranged marriage between Ata and Sevns. I’m hoping we see more from them together in book 2. I’m not going to lie I was hoping he was the one following Ata and Min at the end.
The Assays of Ata ends on a cliffhanger and I am hoping book 2 comes out soon because I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thank you @travelling.pages.tours and @master_of_noniin for the complimentary copy as part of the blog tour
August 24, 2025
An epic fantasy by a South African author-
This was incredibly well written. That fact cannot be denied.
The world building and character work is great.
However- the use of many unique words is what made me incompatible for this book.
At each word it interrupted my flow and threw me out of the story.
It unfortunately got quite frustrating for me and hampered my enjoyment of the story.
If you are a lover of thick fantasy books with good world building, monsters & magic (and don’t mind your fantasy reading like a classic) then this could be the book for you. I really don’t want to minimize the quality of this book- there just are other readers who I know could enjoy this book a lot more than I did.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review 🖤
This was incredibly well written. That fact cannot be denied.
The world building and character work is great.
However- the use of many unique words is what made me incompatible for this book.
At each word it interrupted my flow and threw me out of the story.
It unfortunately got quite frustrating for me and hampered my enjoyment of the story.
If you are a lover of thick fantasy books with good world building, monsters & magic (and don’t mind your fantasy reading like a classic) then this could be the book for you. I really don’t want to minimize the quality of this book- there just are other readers who I know could enjoy this book a lot more than I did.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review 🖤
April 7, 2024
I was gifted a copy of the book and immediately purchased two as gifts to friends.
As a mature reader who has never ventured into this genre before, I was drawn into the story from the first page.
The characters come to life under the skillful hand of the author: human flaws and frailties are examined through introspection by the players, weaving the human condition with a golden thread throughout the book and thus creating relatable characters whose deep and complex thought processes are laid bare to the reader. I was not expecting that in a fantasy novel and this was a wonderful surprise to me. (Even the monsters' heinous atrocities resemble the worst that mankind has to offer in undiluted cruelty.) Add to this great story building and suspense and you have the reasons why I could not put down the book, but read into the wee hours of the morning...
A great read which held me right to the very last page. I will definitely read the next two books to follow.
As a mature reader who has never ventured into this genre before, I was drawn into the story from the first page.
The characters come to life under the skillful hand of the author: human flaws and frailties are examined through introspection by the players, weaving the human condition with a golden thread throughout the book and thus creating relatable characters whose deep and complex thought processes are laid bare to the reader. I was not expecting that in a fantasy novel and this was a wonderful surprise to me. (Even the monsters' heinous atrocities resemble the worst that mankind has to offer in undiluted cruelty.) Add to this great story building and suspense and you have the reasons why I could not put down the book, but read into the wee hours of the morning...
A great read which held me right to the very last page. I will definitely read the next two books to follow.
November 6, 2025
This story starts with a girl named Ata, the illegitimate princess of the Pandian royal family. She lives with her uncle until one day she is sent to spy on the rival kingdom of Cinnae, home to the House of Hårbørgen.
She goes there pretending to be a simple maid, acting like she knows nothing while hiding who she really is. But everything changes when the kingdom is attacked by terrifying creatures called the Gruxhoon. In all the chaos, Ata has to protect two young princes and fight to survive, traveling long distances with almost no food or rest.
Along the way, she crosses paths with Lord Svensson, the illegitimate son of the Cinnaen king. They do not start off on good terms at all. In fact, they clash from the beginning, but both have the same goal,to protect their people and their families. As the story goes on, I loved how they slowly started to understand each other and stand together through all the battles.
When the two kingdoms finally form an alliance, Ata is chosen for an arranged marriage, and let me just say, this is one of my all time favorite tropes 🫶 I absolutely loved their marriage and their little moments together. Even though their relationship was more of a subplot, I still wanted more of it. The way they supported each other, learned to trust, and fought side by side made me love them even more.
The world building was also amazing. The author created two strong kingdoms, Pandial and Cinnae, each with their own history, culture, and traditions. You could feel how real it all was, from the battles to the leadership and the sacrifices made for their people.
The story is full of courage, loyalty, and unity. It shows how two very different people can come together and fight for something greater than themselves.
Even though this was my first epic fantasy, I enjoyed it so much. It reminded me of why I love stories about bravery and strength. The only small thing for me was that the chapters were a bit long. I would have preferred shorter ones, but it did not take away from how beautiful the book was.
She goes there pretending to be a simple maid, acting like she knows nothing while hiding who she really is. But everything changes when the kingdom is attacked by terrifying creatures called the Gruxhoon. In all the chaos, Ata has to protect two young princes and fight to survive, traveling long distances with almost no food or rest.
Along the way, she crosses paths with Lord Svensson, the illegitimate son of the Cinnaen king. They do not start off on good terms at all. In fact, they clash from the beginning, but both have the same goal,to protect their people and their families. As the story goes on, I loved how they slowly started to understand each other and stand together through all the battles.
When the two kingdoms finally form an alliance, Ata is chosen for an arranged marriage, and let me just say, this is one of my all time favorite tropes 🫶 I absolutely loved their marriage and their little moments together. Even though their relationship was more of a subplot, I still wanted more of it. The way they supported each other, learned to trust, and fought side by side made me love them even more.
The world building was also amazing. The author created two strong kingdoms, Pandial and Cinnae, each with their own history, culture, and traditions. You could feel how real it all was, from the battles to the leadership and the sacrifices made for their people.
The story is full of courage, loyalty, and unity. It shows how two very different people can come together and fight for something greater than themselves.
Even though this was my first epic fantasy, I enjoyed it so much. It reminded me of why I love stories about bravery and strength. The only small thing for me was that the chapters were a bit long. I would have preferred shorter ones, but it did not take away from how beautiful the book was.
July 18, 2024
The Assays of Ata" by K.I.S. is a spellbinding journey that masterfully blends elements of adventure, introspection, and the fantastical. The story follows Ata, a character whose quest is as much about uncovering ancient mysteries as it is about understanding their own place in the world.
K.I.S. has a remarkable talent for creating a world that feels both grand and intimate. The landscapes are painted with vivid detail, and the lore is rich and immersive. Ata's journey is fraught with challenges and revelations, each one peeling back another layer of the complex narrative.
The character development is particularly striking. Ata is a protagonist who feels real and relatable, their struggles and triumphs echoing the universal quest for identity and meaning. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each adding depth and nuance to the story.
The pacing of the book is perfect, with just the right balance of action, mystery, and introspection. Every chapter leaves you eager to turn the page, and the twists and turns keep you guessing until the very end.
In "The Assays of Ata," K.I.S. has woven a tale that is both epic and personal, a story that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a book that stays with you, long after you’ve turned the last page, making you ponder the deeper questions of life and destiny.
K.I.S. has a remarkable talent for creating a world that feels both grand and intimate. The landscapes are painted with vivid detail, and the lore is rich and immersive. Ata's journey is fraught with challenges and revelations, each one peeling back another layer of the complex narrative.
The character development is particularly striking. Ata is a protagonist who feels real and relatable, their struggles and triumphs echoing the universal quest for identity and meaning. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each adding depth and nuance to the story.
The pacing of the book is perfect, with just the right balance of action, mystery, and introspection. Every chapter leaves you eager to turn the page, and the twists and turns keep you guessing until the very end.
In "The Assays of Ata," K.I.S. has woven a tale that is both epic and personal, a story that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a book that stays with you, long after you’ve turned the last page, making you ponder the deeper questions of life and destiny.
August 3, 2025
This book has it all: action, magic, suspense, and romance. I love a good fantasy with a touch of magic, and this book was a perfect fit. I loved watching each characters story unfold and how each of them develop in their roles.
A quote from the book that had me hooked:
“I want you to see me. All of me. To know me like no-one else does. Because if you know me like that, with all my warped and twisted parts, then you can decide whether you want to keep me."
This made me so happy to see Ata finally letting someone see ALL of her and allowing herself to fully love someone and allowing him to love her as well.
I am looking forward to continuing this series to see what lies ahead for each character 😊
A quote from the book that had me hooked:
“I want you to see me. All of me. To know me like no-one else does. Because if you know me like that, with all my warped and twisted parts, then you can decide whether you want to keep me."
This made me so happy to see Ata finally letting someone see ALL of her and allowing herself to fully love someone and allowing him to love her as well.
I am looking forward to continuing this series to see what lies ahead for each character 😊
November 9, 2025
4.5 / 5 ⭐️
I was genuinely honoured to receive the ebook of The Assays of Ata from the author, and honestly, I didn’t expect it to affect me as deeply as it did.
The vocabulary is next level. I caught myself Googling words, rereading paragraphs, and smiling because it made me work a little — and I appreciate that. It’s been a while since a story pushed me to think like that.
There were a few triggering themes for me, but instead of taking away from the experience, they actually made it more real.
This isn’t a light read, but it’s a rewarding one — intricate, thoughtful, and written with intent. K.I.S. doesn’t hand you easy answers, but she does give you something better: the reminder that survival, even when it’s messy, is still victory.
Favourite line: “She had survived the assay; the impurities remained, but so did she.”
I was genuinely honoured to receive the ebook of The Assays of Ata from the author, and honestly, I didn’t expect it to affect me as deeply as it did.
The vocabulary is next level. I caught myself Googling words, rereading paragraphs, and smiling because it made me work a little — and I appreciate that. It’s been a while since a story pushed me to think like that.
There were a few triggering themes for me, but instead of taking away from the experience, they actually made it more real.
This isn’t a light read, but it’s a rewarding one — intricate, thoughtful, and written with intent. K.I.S. doesn’t hand you easy answers, but she does give you something better: the reminder that survival, even when it’s messy, is still victory.
Favourite line: “She had survived the assay; the impurities remained, but so did she.”
September 15, 2024
This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
Excellent start to a series that has me looking forward to future installments with great anticipation. The characters are all very well-rounded (even the side characters are fully fleshed out with their distinct personalities). They have real flaws (not just "oh, I'm not really pretty" while everybody around her falls over themselves to be with her, but honest FLAWS that are acknowledged/discovered and then the characters are shown to be working to improve). The world-building is very well done, especially for a new author. Overall, I can't wait to read more about Ata!
Excellent start to a series that has me looking forward to future installments with great anticipation. The characters are all very well-rounded (even the side characters are fully fleshed out with their distinct personalities). They have real flaws (not just "oh, I'm not really pretty" while everybody around her falls over themselves to be with her, but honest FLAWS that are acknowledged/discovered and then the characters are shown to be working to improve). The world-building is very well done, especially for a new author. Overall, I can't wait to read more about Ata!
August 29, 2025
Ummm.. EXCUSE ME!! What was that ending.
I need book 2 please.
Amazing read. Amazing world and magic system. Loved the character too and that we had multiple pov's.
I wish there was a little bit more relationship building with Ata and Svens. It was a lot of arguing and also time spent apart, and BOOM, they were in love.
Really enjoyed Kai's character. Funny guy 🤭🤭. My heart broke for him near the ending 💔 😢.
And then the ending... I need everyone to be okay please 🙏 😔. The prophecy is confusing me because is Ata expecting?? That puts a little twist in things. But will have to wait for book 2 😭😭
I need book 2 please.
Amazing read. Amazing world and magic system. Loved the character too and that we had multiple pov's.
I wish there was a little bit more relationship building with Ata and Svens. It was a lot of arguing and also time spent apart, and BOOM, they were in love.
Really enjoyed Kai's character. Funny guy 🤭🤭. My heart broke for him near the ending 💔 😢.
And then the ending... I need everyone to be okay please 🙏 😔. The prophecy is confusing me because is Ata expecting?? That puts a little twist in things. But will have to wait for book 2 😭😭
September 7, 2025
Epic fantasy with strong female protagonist!
Get ready to dive into a rollercoaster of emotions! Join Pandial operative Ata in an epic escapade through the perilous Cinnaen palace. Feel the adrenaline as she confronts daunting challenges and foes, putting her bravery to the ultimate test. Witness as alliances are forged, and inner turmoil is laid bare, delving into the profound themes of self-discovery, devotion, and selflessness. Brace yourself for a riveting journey filled with a mix of intense action, intricate plots, fierce battles, and enchanting mythical beings. Let yourself be swept away by a tale that will tug at your heartstrings and keep you on the edge of your seat!
Get ready to dive into a rollercoaster of emotions! Join Pandial operative Ata in an epic escapade through the perilous Cinnaen palace. Feel the adrenaline as she confronts daunting challenges and foes, putting her bravery to the ultimate test. Witness as alliances are forged, and inner turmoil is laid bare, delving into the profound themes of self-discovery, devotion, and selflessness. Brace yourself for a riveting journey filled with a mix of intense action, intricate plots, fierce battles, and enchanting mythical beings. Let yourself be swept away by a tale that will tug at your heartstrings and keep you on the edge of your seat!
October 10, 2025
A gripping tale!
This is a gripping tale filled with adventure, battles, strong bonds, secrets, magic and even love.
Ata is born into royalty but treated like a peasant and raised to be a spy. I loved her spy persona and then getting to know the real Ata. I enjoyed learning about the Cinnaen and Pandial tribes and how Ata discovers the magic she holds at her fingertips.
This book is filled with plot twists and secrets that will keep you on your toes.
Expect your vocab to increase exponentially.
Can't wait for the next one!
This is a gripping tale filled with adventure, battles, strong bonds, secrets, magic and even love.
Ata is born into royalty but treated like a peasant and raised to be a spy. I loved her spy persona and then getting to know the real Ata. I enjoyed learning about the Cinnaen and Pandial tribes and how Ata discovers the magic she holds at her fingertips.
This book is filled with plot twists and secrets that will keep you on your toes.
Expect your vocab to increase exponentially.
Can't wait for the next one!
April 15, 2024
I was sucked into this world from the first page: I could practically smell the kitchen fires. There is a lot going on here. Adventure, disaster, intrigue and romance all takes turns at the wheel, but the real engine driving this story are the characters. Ata in particular is a complex, stubborn lead, who I sometimes wanted to throttle (but only because I was so completely invested). I truly enjoyed this story, and it is a very impressive debut.
June 2, 2024
The Assays of Ata (The Chronicles of Aitarbith, #1) is a fantastic read!
I really enjoyed this book. It's a great read for teen and up. I think it was well written. The author did a great job not only with the storyline but word building. Also I never never seen anything that talked about how the author added poems (?) from history and I really enjoyed that as well. I would recommend reading this book even if your not a huge fantasy fan its a absolute great read IMO.
I really enjoyed this book. It's a great read for teen and up. I think it was well written. The author did a great job not only with the storyline but word building. Also I never never seen anything that talked about how the author added poems (?) from history and I really enjoyed that as well. I would recommend reading this book even if your not a huge fantasy fan its a absolute great read IMO.
October 6, 2024
The Assays of Ata
For me, the book was interesting, but too long. There were many lines and stories that didn’t help advance the story. It felt like a there was a certain number of pages that needed written so a few unnecessary chapters were thrown in. Also there was a lot of plot twists which was exhausting to read. Again, adding unnecessarily pages to an already long book. For me, it wasn’t interesting enough so that I would want more pages.
#GoodreadsGiveaways
For me, the book was interesting, but too long. There were many lines and stories that didn’t help advance the story. It felt like a there was a certain number of pages that needed written so a few unnecessary chapters were thrown in. Also there was a lot of plot twists which was exhausting to read. Again, adding unnecessarily pages to an already long book. For me, it wasn’t interesting enough so that I would want more pages.
#GoodreadsGiveaways
April 7, 2024
As an avid reader of fantasy, I found that The Assays of Ata is the perfect balance between action, suspense, drama, and romance in the fantastical world of Àitarbith. The characters (main and supporting) are very relatable. I can really recommend this wonderful read and I am eagerly looking forward to the next book.
May 3, 2024
The Assays of Ata offers a highly compelling narrative with all the important elements of fantasy: a mysterious prophecy, a kingdom shrouded in secrecy, captivating romance, enemies to lovers, forced proximity and the warmth of sisterhood and found family! I strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy — it’s the perfect read :)
August 7, 2025
From the very first chapter, I was completely captivated. This novel delivers all the elements I love in fantasy with rich world building, compelling characters (love a strong female lead), and a gripping plot. I also think It’s a fantastic entry point for anyone new to the genre. I’m already counting down the days until the next one!!
April 7, 2024
As a lover of fantasy and adventure, but not so much the "spice" which permeates the market today, I find this to be the perfect read! Excellent world building, intriguing (but believable) characters, magic, action, monsters, love... This book has it all!
June 30, 2024
Simply brilliant...
August 31, 2025
fantastic story!
A gripping story from beginning to end,
beautifully written with language so vivid I felt like I was there in person! What a debut!
A gripping story from beginning to end,
beautifully written with language so vivid I felt like I was there in person! What a debut!
September 9, 2025
Engaging and well-written with some interesting twists that keep you guessing. I really enjoyed this book.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews