Kilpack's Dark Fantasy Rilari Receives The BookFest Award

West Jordan, Uta. — The BookFest announced the winners of the recent BookFest Awards competition at their semiannual virtual event. Receiving a BookFest Award in the Dark Fantasy category was Utah author W.D. Kilpack III for his Rilari: Book Four of New Blood.

Kilpack said, "I'm grateful and deeply humbled that Rilari received a BookFest Award. It was a challenging book to write, part of a long and demanding journey with this series, and this recognition makes the work feel all the more worthwhile. I write these stories for the readers who invest in them, and it’s rewarding to know the book continues to connect with people."

Desireé Duffy, Founder of The BookFest, said, "The BookFest honors authors who create outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction. The BookFest's mission is rooted in the belief that literature has transformative power and, in a desire to support and celebrate those who create it. Now more than ever, it's essential to honor authors and creatives for their crucial role in shaping the stories that define our humanity. Books transport us to different worlds, offer new adventures, and allow us to reflect on our own lives while fostering empathy. By celebrating the accomplishments of authors, we elevate literature and, in turn, elevate ourselves."

Rilari is the fourth of the eight-book New Blood Saga, which centers around Natharr, the Guardian of Maarihk. He is one of a long line of protectors dating back to the Firstborn Age, before the Aa Conquest. Natharr's is an ancient role, rooted in his Firstblood, giving him Sight to see what will come to pass, deciding what is unavoidable and what is not. In Rilari, since the the Guardian of Maarihk has been absent, the Usurper’s venom has extended beyond the Gulf of Braag, seeding unrest and hatred for all things Maarihkish. Natharr and the Knights of Ril must overcome malice and the ramifications of Ellis the Elder’s boundless past that even Sight cannot reveal. The Rilari stand alone in a world in turmoil as they discover the tremendous reach of the Usurper’s vizier. Even the endowments of the Daemons of Order are unable to withstand the ravages of fighting to survive on Rilari loyalties. Meanwhile, Nathan and his summoned companion must rely on the teachings of both Natharr and Quiet One to carve out their place in the Maarihk Empire. Skill with a sword is only the beginning of their treacherous path, as fraught with peril as Darshelle’s as she flees the animus of the ancient wood.

Duffy said, "It is important to recognize authors for the role they play in creating and sharing stories that entertain, educate, and inspire readers. Books transport us to new worlds, broaden perspectives, and foster empathy. As the Founder of The BookFest, I believe that by saluting authors and their literary achievements we elevate the importance of literature in our society."

This is the fourth award Kilpack has received for Rilari. The other three include the 2025 International Firebird Book Award, Reader's Favorite in the BooksShelf Cover Contest, and the Editor's Choice from BooksShelf. It is the fifty-third book award he has received.

According to Australian author Jose F. Nodar, "Rilari [is] an emotional odyssey that will leave you breathless. Buckle up for a story that throws you headfirst into the world of the Rilari, where humanity’s fate rests on the shoulders of a courageous, yet relatable, leader – Natharr, Guardian of Maarihk. Kilpack masterfully crafts Natharr as a hero brimming with both strength and vulnerability."

According to BooksShelf.com, "Kilpack successfully incorporates profound themes of resilience and unity into the gripping plot, leaving readers emotionally connected. Rilari is a triumph, offering an enthralling adventure filled with courage and the enduring spirit of humanity."

About Kilpack

Kilpack is an award-winning author specializing in epic fantasy and military science fiction, renowned for his emotionally intense storytelling and richly detailed mythic worlds. His acclaimed New Blood Saga, Native American sci-fi novella Pale Face, and Battle Calm Cycle trilogy have garnered 53 international awards, including prestigious honors such as Book of the Year and the International Impact Book Award. Kilpack’s writing is characterized by vivid world-building, complex characters, and themes that explore duty, fate, and sacrifice. His work seamlessly blends mythic depth with gripping military sci-fi action, appealing to readers who crave both emotional resonance and thrilling narratives. Beyond his literary achievements, Kilpack brings a diverse professional background that enriches his storytelling, including being a former college professor, writing coach, world-ranked athlete, and editor with a background in journalism, philosophy, and communication. He has experience in screenwriting, film production, and professional media work. All of this contributes to the cinematic quality of his narratives. Readers praise Kilpack for his ability to create unforgettable characters and immersive worlds that stay with them long after the last page. His stories have been endorsed by critics and fans alike, cementing his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary speculative fiction. For those new to his work, the New Blood Saga offers a compelling entry point, weaving together epic battles, intricate politics, and profound emotional stakes. Kilpack holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Westminster University, where he double-majored in communication and philosophy and completed the Honors Program. He later earned a Master of Professional Communication with a writing emphasis. As a high-performing athlete, he qualified to represent the USA in Greco-Roman wrestling. He is happily married to his high-school sweetheart and helped raise five children and five step-children. For more information go to www.Kilpack.net.

About The BookFest

The BookFest is the leader in virtual literary events, producing vital conversations on the world’s stage for those who love to read and those who love to write. It launched in May 2020, at a time when many live events were canceled. Free to attend, the biannual event takes place in the spring and fall, streaming panel discussions, conversations, and live interactive sessions. As an award-winning event, The BookFest has received recognition from the Webby Awards with a nomination in 2021, a gold award from the Muse Creative Awards in 2020, and a silver award from the w3 Awards in 2020. The BookFest features an array of literary speakers, experts, and authors, including: Mitch Albom; Kevin J. Anderson; Angela Bole; Mark Coker; James Dashner; Robert G. Diforio; Dr. Michael Greger; Cheryl Willis Hudson; Wade Hudson; Sarah Kendzior; Jonathan Maberry; Josh Malerman; Lisa Morton; Karla Olson; Deborah M. Pratt; James Rollins; Connie Schultz; Michael Shermer; Mark K. Shriver; Danny Trejo; Helene Wecker; Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein, and many others. The BookFest is presented by Books That Make You and produced by Black Château Enterprises. The BookFest is a registered trademark of Desireé Duffy, founder of all three. For more information, visit The BookFest.com.