15% off
1
of
1
Roots of Darkness
The must-read romantasy novella to the epic Viking ASHEN series
Brief Description
Join Hekla and the remnants of the Bloodaxe Crew as they battle the evil, poisonous mist threatening the citizens of Istre - and perhaps all of Iseldur - in Roots of Darkness by Demi Winters, an epic romantasy novella following the events of Kingdom of Claw....
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
Save 15% Off
Savings are calculated from our regular price of
$32.99
compared to the current price of
$28.00.
$2800
$3799
Elsewhere:
Unit price
/
Unavailable
On Sale
in
Romance Reads Sale
until
29 Jul or
while stocks last
OVERNIGHT NZ-WIDE DELIVERY
Found a better price? Request a price match
Roots of Darkness
$2800
$3799
Elsewhere:
Unit price
/
Unavailable
Sarah J. Maas meets Vikings in this epic romantasy novella by Demi Winters, following Hekla and the Bloodaxe Crew from the Ashen series.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Description
Join Hekla and the remnants of the Bloodaxe Crew as they battle the evil, poisonous mist threatening the citizens of Istre - and perhaps all of Iseldur - in Roots of Darkness by Demi Winters, an epic romantasy novella following the events of Kingdom of Claw. Traveling the Road of Bones was only the start of Hekla's troubles. The Bloodaxe Crew have arrived at the village of Istre - beleaguered and missing three of their members. They might be down in numbers, but Hekla "Rib Smasher" is determined they'll complete their job all the same: defeat the monstrous, sentient mist, and keep the citizens of Istre safe. What she didn't expect is for Istre'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 Istre safe - not even the man who haunts her thoughts. Roots of Darkness is a romantic companion novella to the Ashen series from BookTok sensation Demi Winters. Continue reading the Ashen series with Dawn of the North, the third breathtaking book. **** Readers DEVOURED Roots of Darkness . . . 'Easy one sitting read for this incredible novella!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'I easily could've read another 300+ pages .. . amazing amazing amazing' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'THIS is how you do a novella'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Tropes: Vikings Feminine rage Golden retriever x black cat One night stand turned love interest Slow burn F*ck the patriarchy Animal sidekicks
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781399640510
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 January 2026
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Gollancz
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 22.0mm
Width: 150.0mm
Height: 232.0mm
Weight: 280g
Pages: 224
About the Author
Demi Winters writes fantasy romance stories that combine flawed characters, love stories, interesting worlds, and magic systems. When she's not dreaming up morally gray love interests or fantastical worlds, Demi can be found reading or hanging out with her family.
Also by Demi Winters
View all-
The Road of Bones
A woman on the run. A crew of Viking mercenaries. A forbidden romance. And the secret which threatens them all . . . Silla Nordvig is running for her life. The queen of Iseldur has sent warriors to bring Silla to Sunnavik, where death awaits her. When her father is killed, his last words set Silla on a perilous quest:...Paperback$2799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Dawn of the North
Two sisters. Two loves. One darkness threatening their realm. A new age begins in the Kingdom of Iseldur in Dawn of the North, the sizzling third book in the Viking-inspired romantasy Ashen series from Demi Winters. The lost Volsik heir has finally returned to the people of Iseldur, and even with the warrior who's captured her heart standing by her...Paperback$3299Elsewhere:$3799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Kingdom of Claw
Return to the Kingdom of Iseldur in Kingdom of Claw, a Viking-inspired romantasy where enemies become lovers and dark secrets hide around every corner . . . Silla Nordvig survived the Road of Bones. In the aftermath of her journey, her dreams of a simple life have been shattered. Beaten, betrayed, and reeling from the revelation of her true name,...Paperback$2799Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
-
Kingdom of Claw
Silla Nordvig survived the Road of Bones. In the aftermath of her journey, her dreams of a simple life have been shattered. Beaten, betrayed, and reeling from the revelation of her true name, she flees Kopa with Reynir Galtung, ruthless leader of the Bloodaxe Crew. But Silla soon discovers Rey has been keeping secrets of his own—ones that force them...PaperbackSold Out -
Kingdom of Claw
Return to the Kingdom of Iseldur in Kingdom of Claw, a Viking-inspired romantasy where enemies become lovers and dark secrets hide around every corner... Silla Nordvig survived the Road of Bones. In the aftermath of her journey, her dreams of a simple life have been shattered. Beaten, betrayed, and reeling from the revelation of her true name, she flees Kopa...HardbackSold Out -
The Road of Bones
A woman on the run. A crew of Viking mercenaries. A forbidden romance. And the secret which threatens them all... Silla Nordvig is running for her life. The queen of Iseldur has sent warriors to bring Silla to Sunnavik, where death awaits her. When her father is killed, his last words set Silla on a perilous quest: travel the treacherous...PaperbackSold Out
More from Sci-Fi & Fantasy
View all-
The Strength of the Few
The highly anticipated follow-up to The Will of the Many—one of 2023's most lauded and bestselling fantasy novels. The Hierarchy still call me Vis Telimus. They still, as one, believe they know who I am. But with all that has happened—with what I fear is coming—I am not sure it matters anymore. I am no longer one. I won the...Paperback$2899Elsewhere:$3800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Project Hail Mary
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, the SUNDAY TIMES and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of The Martian, offers a gripping new adventure in hard science fiction. With endorsement from notable figures such as Barack Obama and a slew of five-star reviews, this novel promises a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey. Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut, finds himself on a...Paperback$2399Elsewhere:$2400Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Red Rising
The first book in the incredible New York Times bestselling series Darrow is a Helldiver, toiling beneath the surface of Mars. As a member of the Red caste, he performs grueling labor in the belief that his sacrifice will enable future generations to one day inhabit the surface of the Red Planet. The Reds are humankind's lowest caste, living in...Paperback$2200Elsewhere:$2799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Crossroads of Ravens
THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON RETURNS... Every legend has an origin - and Geralt of Rivia's begins here. In this brand-new chapter of Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher series, follow Geralt in his earliest days as a Witcher, as he faces monsters and humans alike. Discover the untold stories and encounters that shaped the iconic character known today. Crossroads of Ravens brings readers into...Paperback$2899Elsewhere:$3799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
The Will of the Many
Phenomenal! One of the best high fantasy novels I've read in years—think Red Rising meets The Name of the Wind. I couldn't put it down. - LYNETTE NONI This new edition of book one in the Hierarchy series features never-before-seen bonus materials, including a full-colour map by the author, a note to the reader, and new cover art. AUDI. VICE....Paperback$2999Elsewhere:$3800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Wind and Truth
The long-awaited explosive climax to the first arc of the Number One New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive. Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson sees Dalinar Kholin challenge the evil god Odium to a contest of champions with the future of Roshar on the line. The Knights Radiant have only ten days to prepare, and the sudden ascension of the...Paperback$3100Elsewhere:$3999Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
The Ministry of Time
One of the 18 best novels of the year for the Sunday Times A book of the year for the New York Times, Guardian, Independent, Evening Standard, Spectator, Red, NPR, Vanity Fair, People, Slate, Advocate, Sydney Morning Herald, Globe and Mail, Den of Geek, Good Housekeeping, Goodreads, NetGalley and Smithsonian Magazine 'A sparkling delight' Observer 'Make room on your bookshelves...Paperback$2500Elsewhere:$2799Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Assassin’s Apprentice
Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure in the rich and immersive world of the Six Duchies. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of civil war, this gripping tale introduces readers to FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard whose existence threatens the stability of the crown. When the crown prince's secret...Paperback$1900Elsewhere:$2299Unit price /UnavailableBackorderShips late August -
I Who Have Never Known Men
A haunting, heartbreaking tale of female friendship and intimacy that evokes the chilling atmospheres of The Handmaid's Tale and the desolate landscapes of The Road, I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman is a story that lingers long after the last page is turned. This gripping narrative takes us deep underground, where thirty-nine women are held in isolation...Paperback$2800Elsewhere:$3299Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
The Colour Illustrated Hobbit
The Colour Illustrated Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless classic that has enchanted readers for generations. This beloved tale follows Bilbo Baggins, a peace-loving hobbit from the quaint and picturesque Shire, who finds himself thrust into an epic journey far from the comforts of his cosy home. Charming and lively illustrations by Jemima Catlin breathe new life...Paperback$2700Elsewhere:$2999Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Blood Over Bright Haven
A riveting dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power, from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. For twenty years, Sciona...Paperback$3400Elsewhere:$3800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
The Great Dune Trilogy
Frank Herbert's The Great Dune Trilogy plunges readers into an evocative and grandiose saga set on the desert planet of Arrakis. This richly detailed landscape becomes the focal point for a complex tapestry of political intrigue, military conflict, and galaxy-wide repercussions. Arrakis, also known as Dune, is the sole source of the spice melange, a valuable and highly sought-after substance...Paperback$3900Elsewhere:$4499Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks
Why buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Bookstore
We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.
Sci-Fi & Fantasy lists from the team
Explore our curated lists from our heroes to find your next read!
-
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
Lizzy's Cozy Fantasy Reads
Life can be cold and harsh, so why not escape into the comforting pages of a cozy fantasy novel for a while?...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Edd's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
2026 Hugo Award for Best Novel Finalists
Every year at the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon), members vote on the best Science Fiction or Fantasy works of the previous...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
Fantasy Special Editions we are lusting after
It's no secret that here at Book Hero we love a special edition - preferably one with sprayed edges, beautiful artwork, and...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Edd's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
Sci-Fi and Fantasy Special Editions
With physical books making a comeback in recent years, there are more gorgeous special editions out there than ever before. Here’s a...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Shirl's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
10 Sci-Fi Novels that won both the Nebula and Hugo Awards
Discover ten of the greatest science fiction novels ever written each recognised with both the Hugo and Nebula Awards. These awards are...View the list
