Kellanved's Reach is the third novel of the Path to Ascendancy series by Canadian author Ian Cameron Esslemont.
[2] In a March 2022 interview, Esslemont announced a fourth Path to Ascendancy book titled Forge of the High Mage.
Bill Capossere calls it a "well-written prequel", praising the pace and plot of the novel compared to Esslemont's earlier works.
[4] Fantasy Book Review gave it a 9 out of 10, calling it a "fantastic addition to the trilogy" and describing it as "equal parts majestic, captivating, thrilling, funny, and mystifying".
[5] Publishers Weekly says "Esslemont’s weird magics, intense combat, and varied characters continue to put his work at the peak of epic fantasy" but notes "extensive cast of characters and the wide scope will prevent newcomers from being able to join the story in progress.