Roots of Darkness

An Ashen Series Standalone

By: Demi Winters

Narrated by: Islay Jacobs

Join Hekla and the remnants of the Bloodaxe Crew as they battle the evil, poisonous mist threatening the citizens of Istré—and perhaps all of Íseldur—in a novella following the events of Kingdom of Claw.

Traveling the Road of Bones was only the start of Hekla's troubles.

The Bloodaxe Crew has arrived at the village of Istré—beleaguered and missing three of their members. They might be down in numbers, but Hekla "Rib Smasher" is determined that they'll complete their job all the same: defeat the monstrous, sentient mist and keep the citizens of Istré safe. What she didn't expect was for Istré's bullheaded chieftain to block her every move.

Exasperated, Hekla throws caution to the wind for a single passion-filled night. But to her horror, the mysterious red-cloaked warrior to whom she's spilled her deepest secrets is the Bloodaxe Crew's new temporary leader and ally—Eyvind Hakonsson.

Hekla must now learn to play by Eyvind's rules while guarding her heart. But when it becomes clear that his plans align with the chieftain's, Hekla takes matters into her own hands.

Nothing will stop her from keeping the innocent people of Istré safe—not even the man who haunts her thoughts.

Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website.

©2025 Demi Winters (P)2026 Podium Audio

YESSS

This is how you write a novella!!! Such an amazing book wow. This series is the best one ever.

Rib Smasher’s Story Did Not Disappoint!

This book follows Hekla (also known as Rib Smasher) of the BloodAxe Crew, and I absolutely loved getting to dive deeper into one of my favorite characters of the crew!!

It was so compelling to read more of her storyline, her struggles, her romantic tensions and dynamics, and the battles she facing while separated from Ray.

I truly felt for her on a deep level, felt for her feminine rage, her strength, and her resilience, especially considering everything she’s had to endure throughout her journey.

This was such a great and refreshing read, and the perfect bridge before heading into book three!

Love Heckler. Great short story.

I thought about skipping this, but glad I didn’t. It was a great short story, with a bit of smut sprinkled in.

Good side story.

This was a great side story of people in books 1&2. Read after 2 but before 3! Sooo worth it.

Don’t Skip!

If you’re reading the series, don’t skip this novella. You’ll miss some key information and some fun spice involving Hekla. I loved it.