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Power Ascending #4
Warrior Lord
From warrior to diplomat, his destiny awaits.
Heralded as the Hero of the North, Ludwig returns home, expecting to reconcile with his father, only to learn a mysterious illness has taken him.
Thrust into the role of baron, he quickly discovers his stepbrother left his lands teetering on the edge of ruin. The barony is nearly bankrupt, the army weak, and its traditional enemy is making threats of war.
Before he has the opportunity to rectify the situation, King Otto reminds him of his obligation to continue the family name.
Now entangled in the tumultuous politics of court, he is forced to deal with petty jealousies and a country torn apart by strife. All while a powerful enemy prepares to invade!
Can he successfully master the complexity of being a warrior lord, or will it ultimately lead to his own destruction?
Heralded as the Hero of the North, Ludwig returns home, expecting to reconcile with his father, only to learn a mysterious illness has taken him.
Thrust into the role of baron, he quickly discovers his stepbrother left his lands teetering on the edge of ruin. The barony is nearly bankrupt, the army weak, and its traditional enemy is making threats of war.
Before he has the opportunity to rectify the situation, King Otto reminds him of his obligation to continue the family name.
Now entangled in the tumultuous politics of court, he is forced to deal with petty jealousies and a country torn apart by strife. All while a powerful enemy prepares to invade!
Can he successfully master the complexity of being a warrior lord, or will it ultimately lead to his own destruction?
390 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2022
About the author
Paul J. Bennett
48 books576 followersPaul J Bennett (b. 1961) emigrated from England to Canada in 1967. His father served in the British Royal Navy, and his mother worked for the BBC in London. As a young man, Paul followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1983. He is married to Carol Bennett and has three daughters who are all creative in their own right.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 1, 2025
Paul J. Bennett delivers one of the strongest entries in the series with Warrior Lord, a novel that deepens character arcs, broadens the world, and pushes long-simmering threats closer to the surface. The story once again alternates between two protagonists forced apart by circumstance—an approach that continues to give the series its unique rhythm—until this volume brings them together for the first time in a moment longtime readers will genuinely appreciate.
At the heart of this entry is the willful son of a baron, returning home ready to make peace with his father, only to discover he’s too late. What follows is a compelling shift: he must rise as a new duke and shoulder the fate of a struggling duchy even as rumors of an approaching war grow louder. It’s a classic Bennett setup—personal stakes intertwined with political responsibility—and it’s handled with confidence.
The character development shines here. Watching a young man grow into leadership, not through destiny but through hard decisions and earned respect, gives the novel its emotional throughline. Bennett’s world-building also continues to impress, balancing the intricacies of feudal politics with the realities of armies, supply lines, and terrain. The battles are sharp, tactical, and engrossing—exactly the kind of grounded combat that makes this series stand out.
And the big moment fans have been waiting for—the first meeting of the two protagonists—lands beautifully. It feels both inevitable and exciting, signaling that the overarching series conflict is ready to shift from background tension to something far more immediate.
Only minor quibbles here: pacing can still slow slightly during travel and administrative sections. But for readers who appreciate Bennett’s deliberate, craft-focused storytelling, these moments enrich rather than detract.
Perfect for fans of character-driven epic fantasy, grounded warfare, and long-form narrative payoff. Readers who enjoy leadership arcs, loyal companions, and rising political tension will especially connect with this volume.
In short: a richly told, skillfully constructed installment that earns a full five stars. Fans of epic fantasy focused on strategy, honor, and slow-building stakes will find this one deeply satisfying.
At the heart of this entry is the willful son of a baron, returning home ready to make peace with his father, only to discover he’s too late. What follows is a compelling shift: he must rise as a new duke and shoulder the fate of a struggling duchy even as rumors of an approaching war grow louder. It’s a classic Bennett setup—personal stakes intertwined with political responsibility—and it’s handled with confidence.
The character development shines here. Watching a young man grow into leadership, not through destiny but through hard decisions and earned respect, gives the novel its emotional throughline. Bennett’s world-building also continues to impress, balancing the intricacies of feudal politics with the realities of armies, supply lines, and terrain. The battles are sharp, tactical, and engrossing—exactly the kind of grounded combat that makes this series stand out.
And the big moment fans have been waiting for—the first meeting of the two protagonists—lands beautifully. It feels both inevitable and exciting, signaling that the overarching series conflict is ready to shift from background tension to something far more immediate.
Only minor quibbles here: pacing can still slow slightly during travel and administrative sections. But for readers who appreciate Bennett’s deliberate, craft-focused storytelling, these moments enrich rather than detract.
Perfect for fans of character-driven epic fantasy, grounded warfare, and long-form narrative payoff. Readers who enjoy leadership arcs, loyal companions, and rising political tension will especially connect with this volume.
In short: a richly told, skillfully constructed installment that earns a full five stars. Fans of epic fantasy focused on strategy, honor, and slow-building stakes will find this one deeply satisfying.
July 22, 2022
Ludwig has come back, from the North, victorious, having found out that his father is ill and needs him. Within a rock's throw of his keep, Ludwig learns of his father's passing along with a score of the population . He must make haste and see the king to be confirmed as the new Baron, and successor to his father. Luckily, there is no war at this time so he can start attacking the immediate task of governing the barony.
The King presses him to marry and produce an heir, he realizes, upon arrival that his stepbrother has left the barony in grave financial difficulties and, to top it all, there are threats and rumours growing that a war with King Dietrich is at the kingdom doors.
In how many directions can one be pulled?
The author takes the reader on a journey through Ludwig's life as a warrior, a Lord Baron, a loyal servant of the crown, a devoted husband and father, and a powerful leader and commander of troops with his two trusted captains, one to everyone's dismay, being a very competent woman, something that was seldom seen in that period. My opinion is that the book is very well written but there are lengths prompting this reader to skip pages at certain times, to get back to the action. 4 Stars.
The King presses him to marry and produce an heir, he realizes, upon arrival that his stepbrother has left the barony in grave financial difficulties and, to top it all, there are threats and rumours growing that a war with King Dietrich is at the kingdom doors.
In how many directions can one be pulled?
The author takes the reader on a journey through Ludwig's life as a warrior, a Lord Baron, a loyal servant of the crown, a devoted husband and father, and a powerful leader and commander of troops with his two trusted captains, one to everyone's dismay, being a very competent woman, something that was seldom seen in that period. My opinion is that the book is very well written but there are lengths prompting this reader to skip pages at certain times, to get back to the action. 4 Stars.
July 6, 2022
Thanks to the machinations of his stepbrother, Ludwig really has his work cut out for him. Not only does he have to rebuild the garrison, he needs to show both his tenants and the tradespeople he will need to rely on, that he is nothing like his stepbrother and can be trusted to keep his word.
In Warrior Lord, Ludwig encounters more of "life's lessons", helping him to grow into his new role of
Baron and later, the battle strategist for King Otto.
With their forces greatly outnumbered, Ludwig can't help but wonder if he will ever see his wife and son again. Will his tactics succeed this time, or will this be his last battle?
I received an Advance Reader Copy of Warrior Lord from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
In Warrior Lord, Ludwig encounters more of "life's lessons", helping him to grow into his new role of
Baron and later, the battle strategist for King Otto.
With their forces greatly outnumbered, Ludwig can't help but wonder if he will ever see his wife and son again. Will his tactics succeed this time, or will this be his last battle?
I received an Advance Reader Copy of Warrior Lord from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
August 23, 2022
Ludwig has certainly grown! He started the series as a spoiled son, and now he is a just and noble baron. He returns home to find his father's barony broke and his step brother uncaring. His only allies are Siggy and Cyn, two mercenaries who survived battles with him. Now Ludwig must rebuild the barony, counsel the king, stop a war, and save the kingdom.
Paul Bennett continues his story telling with detailed scenes of battle, and insight into his characters. This is a wonderful book in the series, both moving the storyline forward and opening new possibilities for all the characters involved.
Paul Bennett continues his story telling with detailed scenes of battle, and insight into his characters. This is a wonderful book in the series, both moving the storyline forward and opening new possibilities for all the characters involved.
July 5, 2022
Although this lacked dragons,magic, or fae type characters, or powers,It was a great read.Ludwig leaves home after his father ruins his Love. He goes north to become a mercenary warrior with acclaim. But then his father becomes ill ,so he and his companions head south to his father's baronny only to discover ???? (no spoilers) . What will become of the kingdom ? who will Ludwig become? I am an Honest ARC reviewer this book is action packed it flows smoothly bringing the readers into the world Mr. Bennett has dreamed up with ease. Hoping for a book 2 .
July 5, 2022
Ludwig has matured and returns home to Verfeld with his compatriots, Siggy and Cyn. But things have changed, and he finds himself in a new role. As he struggles to commit to this life, several factors put him on a road to danger, intrigue, and life-changing decisions. Bennett once again brings the characters to life and adds twists and turns which compel the reader to “turn the pages” to see what lies ahead. Will things turn out for the better? Will Ludwig make the right choices? We’ll have to wait and see – and hope!
Read
July 2, 2022Ludwig returns home to Verfeld with Siggy and Cyn. Together they will help to build up Verfeld of which Ludwig is the new baron. Ludwig learned of his father’s passing shortly before he reached home. The barony is nearly bankrupt, thanks to his step-brother, the army is weak, and there is a threat of war. Many challenges await Ludwig even as the king desires him to wed a woman from the north, Lady Charlotte Stratmeyer, daughter of Lord Kurlan, Baron of Blunden.
July 4, 2022
Ludwig Altenburg, son of Lord Frederick, Baron of Verfeld. Arrived home to discover that he was no longer the son but the Baron of Verfeld. He went to Hadenfeld to be invested as the Baron. His cousin Otto was the King. Ludwig got along great with Otto as long as he called in my Lord. Mister Bennett has written another great book that everyone should read. I look forward to the next book as he is one of my favorite authors...
July 15, 2022
I don't know how many times I can say MORE PLEASE! (Without being boring).
As has been the case in each of the books in this marvelous series, I'm disappointed it's finished (so very good), and can't wait for the next chapter. I absolutely loved the way the characters and their personalities have been developed over the course of the books. You care about them, have your own "favorites", and can't wait to see what's next.
As has been the case in each of the books in this marvelous series, I'm disappointed it's finished (so very good), and can't wait for the next chapter. I absolutely loved the way the characters and their personalities have been developed over the course of the books. You care about them, have your own "favorites", and can't wait to see what's next.
July 22, 2022
is is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 19, 2025
You never know what life will bring you, just ask Ludwig. He thought he was just returning with his friends to see his father, then to become a Baron, then the King's advisor, then ... Please read the story for all the twists and turns - you will not regret it.
The author brings you Ludwig's thoughts and prayers, his battle strategy, his struggles with the turns that fate has brought him. Though it all you will enjoy being a part of his journey.
The author brings you Ludwig's thoughts and prayers, his battle strategy, his struggles with the turns that fate has brought him. Though it all you will enjoy being a part of his journey.
June 29, 2022
The next intriguing instalment in this authors amazing world. I was eagerly devouring this story with its characters so relatable, yet unique.
Ludwig is settling in to his new role as Baron, while all around him politics are afoot. Can he, the newest Baron, make a difference on the impending conflict.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Ludwig is settling in to his new role as Baron, while all around him politics are afoot. Can he, the newest Baron, make a difference on the impending conflict.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
July 7, 2022
Awesome as always. Paul J Bennett writes a beautiful tale of great characters from all different walks of life.
Lord Ludwig returns home to find his father already dead and his stepbrother Berthold running his barony into the ground.
This book details Ludwig trying to regroup amongst talks of war.
I love this series and the characters are amazing.
Lord Ludwig returns home to find his father already dead and his stepbrother Berthold running his barony into the ground.
This book details Ludwig trying to regroup amongst talks of war.
I love this series and the characters are amazing.
August 1, 2022
Engrossing Story!
This story is a continuation, but is not just a boring 'and it continues'... it has its own merits and Ludwig stands on his own his own way, but he does do his duty! So, there is not much to say that is not a spoiler, other than, it is a Great story!
Thank you Paul J. Bennett for another Great Story!
This story is a continuation, but is not just a boring 'and it continues'... it has its own merits and Ludwig stands on his own his own way, but he does do his duty! So, there is not much to say that is not a spoiler, other than, it is a Great story!
Thank you Paul J. Bennett for another Great Story!
September 13, 2022
Warrior Lord is a brilliant read, the characters really come to life in this book and I like the way the whole story line in the book seesaws from one plot to another. Ludwig comes of age and without spoiling it for other readers life takes on a whole new meaning. A superb addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
October 29, 2025
Sometimes a good fantasy battle exceeds the real life battles of a bygone age!
Kings, knights and mages rule the Petty Kingdoms! Mages use magic to unbalance kingdoms! Romance blossoms to soften the human costs of war.
Kings, knights and mages rule the Petty Kingdoms! Mages use magic to unbalance kingdoms! Romance blossoms to soften the human costs of war.
June 30, 2022
Changes!
In this interesting, unpredictable saga, Ludwig's world changes suddenly, when he finds out he is now the Baron. See how good of a leader he is, in more ways then one.
In this interesting, unpredictable saga, Ludwig's world changes suddenly, when he finds out he is now the Baron. See how good of a leader he is, in more ways then one.
July 4, 2022
Amazing story realistic battle scenes characters to root for.
July 21, 2022
Very good book.
July 21, 2022
Wow! What an epic action packed story. Really love the character of Ludwig in this series as well. Tons of action and suspense. Definitely left me wanting much more!
July 26, 2022
Good read. Surprising twists for Ludwig in this one.
August 8, 2022
Another excellent book by the author I've read all his stories and enjoyed everyone of them ,his storytelling is excellent, you get so engrossed in the characters you can't wait for the next story
February 6, 2026
good book
I really enjoyed the action and the characters. It’s a good addition in this collection. I look forward to reading the next book as it has been very entertaining
I really enjoyed the action and the characters. It’s a good addition in this collection. I look forward to reading the next book as it has been very entertaining
July 7, 2022
The YA dialog was, particularly in the first half, hard to read through. I guess the objective was to explain things to the YA audience - the main character was overly naive at times, and very forgiving of too many things. I did finish it though.
July 21, 2022
Warrior Lord by Paul J. Bennett is another fabulous addition to his Power Ascending series. Ludwig has grown from a brash young man to a well-respected leader with Cyn and Siggy as his trusted friends and confidants. The book is fast paced and came to an end much to quickly for me. I’m looking forward to the release of Temple Commander, the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews