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The Black King
Prince Revelin was slaughtered beside his family. Now, his cousin King Verlyn holds the throne, and peace reigns in Nenyth. That is the story peasants tell, huddling before their hearths while the kingdom falls into ruin, afraid to speak the truth even in whispers. There is no peace, only the brutality of the beasts and bandits that roam the countryside while the usurper king sits his throne, blind to our suffering. I’ve felt it every second of my life, held back by illness that’s gripped me since childhood. But a wish and a promise brings me the health and strength I need to set things right—find the rightful king and restore Nenyth. If I fail, my promise will be broken, my life lost alongside it, but word of a rogue knight reaches our hamlet—a warrior skilled enough to teach me the ways of the blade. In my father’s footsteps, I’ll become a knight and restore justice. My name is Quentin, and if it takes all that I have and all I’ve ever hoped for, I will save my kingdom, my people, and my prince. The Black King is an MM epic fantasy serial novel. Join Quentin and our knight errant as they fight back the dark. Full of violence, hope, and more than a little swordplay.
The Black King was originally published on Sam Burns & W.M. Fawkes's Patreon page as our 2022 Epic Fantasy Romance serial.
The Black King was originally published on Sam Burns & W.M. Fawkes's Patreon page as our 2022 Epic Fantasy Romance serial.
208 pages, Paperback
Published March 13, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 19, 2023
4 Stars
I had a blast reading this novella length high fantasy story, by one of my favourite MM author duos.
I’m not sure what this reminded me of, but I enjoyed the blend of themes and tropes here, as we follow our underdog heroes, Quentin and Leon, as they join forces to take back the stolen kingdom from the evil usurper who currently sits on the throne.
I liked the element of magic and the sense of destiny, with Quentin seemingly the “chosen one” tasked with bringing Leon (secretly the prince in hiding) back to his place as the rightful ruler of the struggling and fearful people.
Originally a serial on Patreon, this novella has this morish quality to it, with short and eventful chapters, always ending on a note that pushes the story along nicely.
I found The Black King a hard story to put down, basking in the fantasy world setting, the fight for justice over tyranny, and the sweet and tender love story that blossomed between the one and true King and his perfectly equalled and adoring consort.
I had a blast reading this novella length high fantasy story, by one of my favourite MM author duos.
I’m not sure what this reminded me of, but I enjoyed the blend of themes and tropes here, as we follow our underdog heroes, Quentin and Leon, as they join forces to take back the stolen kingdom from the evil usurper who currently sits on the throne.
I liked the element of magic and the sense of destiny, with Quentin seemingly the “chosen one” tasked with bringing Leon (secretly the prince in hiding) back to his place as the rightful ruler of the struggling and fearful people.
Originally a serial on Patreon, this novella has this morish quality to it, with short and eventful chapters, always ending on a note that pushes the story along nicely.
I found The Black King a hard story to put down, basking in the fantasy world setting, the fight for justice over tyranny, and the sweet and tender love story that blossomed between the one and true King and his perfectly equalled and adoring consort.
May 30, 2023
4 Stars
I love me a medieval fantasy, and this fit the bill perfectly.
A usurped prince, an evil imposter king of a cousin, and a sickly lad chosen for a quest to help save the realm and return the rightful ruler back to his throne.
Though I would've gladly read more, this still ticked off many of my historical fantasy boxes! A quick satisfying read!
I love me a medieval fantasy, and this fit the bill perfectly.
A usurped prince, an evil imposter king of a cousin, and a sickly lad chosen for a quest to help save the realm and return the rightful ruler back to his throne.
Though I would've gladly read more, this still ticked off many of my historical fantasy boxes! A quick satisfying read!
January 7, 2024
“Remember this. There’s no glory in killing a man. No joy. Only death.”
No ha estado mal. Me ha entretenido y me gusta como escriben los autores. La historia me parece un poco cliché en general y los personajes les ha faltado un poco de desarrollo. A pesar de todo, como he dicho antes ha sido una lectura decente y creo que seguiré leyendo más de estos autores.
No ha estado mal. Me ha entretenido y me gusta como escriben los autores. La historia me parece un poco cliché en general y los personajes les ha faltado un poco de desarrollo. A pesar de todo, como he dicho antes ha sido una lectura decente y creo que seguiré leyendo más de estos autores.
March 10, 2023
2.5
I knew the authors are able to create lovable main characters and give them enough background to explain their struggles and decisions. In that regard Quentin and Leon didn't disappoint. I had no trouble at all connecting with them and liked watching their way through the story. It's only that I couldn't see them falling in love with each other. Yes, there were some few hints but those could easily be explained also as something else, no slow burn, no pinning, not even constant attraction but suddenly there is a kiss and I'm supposed to believe they're in love. Wasn't enough for me.
There is also proof that the authors can do fantasy and especially the start chapter but also a lot of the other chapters didn't disappoint. There had to be some concessions because for a supposedly epic fantasy it's quite short but I enjoyed their adventure until up to the point when Leon finally made the decision to claim his throne. Firstly that point on everything went too fast for my taste, secondly it seems for me an epic fantasy needs an epic battle or at least dangerous political machinations and devious scheming and thirdly there has to be a capable villain. There was nothing like that here. There was an odd “war” strategy and a small battle of which we didn't see much, the political situation was not believable and the usurper a complete letdown. So the end of the story tainted a lot of the previous enjoyment.
I knew the authors are able to create lovable main characters and give them enough background to explain their struggles and decisions. In that regard Quentin and Leon didn't disappoint. I had no trouble at all connecting with them and liked watching their way through the story. It's only that I couldn't see them falling in love with each other. Yes, there were some few hints but those could easily be explained also as something else, no slow burn, no pinning, not even constant attraction but suddenly there is a kiss and I'm supposed to believe they're in love. Wasn't enough for me.
There is also proof that the authors can do fantasy and especially the start chapter but also a lot of the other chapters didn't disappoint. There had to be some concessions because for a supposedly epic fantasy it's quite short but I enjoyed their adventure until up to the point when Leon finally made the decision to claim his throne. Firstly that point on everything went too fast for my taste, secondly it seems for me an epic fantasy needs an epic battle or at least dangerous political machinations and devious scheming and thirdly there has to be a capable villain. There was nothing like that here. There was an odd “war” strategy and a small battle of which we didn't see much, the political situation was not believable and the usurper a complete letdown. So the end of the story tainted a lot of the previous enjoyment.
February 1, 2023
You can tell the bones of this story's origin as a serial originally written and released in chapters at a time because each one nicely contains an element which moves the plot along.
Now, you might say that should be the case with any narrative but it's not always the case, sometimes an author might introduce a break chapter to give the reader a chance to absorb what's been going on previously. Other times there might be a side character who has focus for a short period.
Either way, what you get with The Black King is the excellent writing this duo have become known for within the paranormal and fantasy worlds, a tightly paced action and character-led setting that rolls along gathering momentum as the details unfold.
Both main characters are compelling in their own right with quite distinctive personal journeys which I found fascinating. Leon, the former Prince who was spirited away as the rest of his family was slaughtered by a usurping cousin, is a man who has never been able to forget his origins, even as he tries in small ways to give back to the people who don't know who he is.
Quentin, on the other hand, shouldn't even be alive. He's been fighting off one potentially deadly illness after another since he was six-years-old, seeing his mother fall to a plague and his father die in action as a guard not long after.
He has a huge sense of obligation to the villagers who have kept him alive, looked after him, stopped him from being alone and when he's offered a quest and a bargain from a mysterious woman, he accepts it eagerly if it means he can have some way of offering back to those who've helped him.
And, here I will just say that this is the one element of the story I don't think is ever properly explained, which may be a specific choice on the part of the authors, or could be down to it originally being a serial release, I'm not sure.
But the reasons for the mysterious witch's behaviour and her bargaining is never discovered, it's just a throwaway reference to her perhaps offering advice to previous generations of Leon's family which went ignored. It never really made sense to me to be honest and is the one area I felt the plot lacking.
The rest of the book is a thoroughly entertaining fantasy romp as Leon trains Quentin and finds out that the young man has a spine of steel to go along with his determination to find the rightful King and restore them to the throne.
Eventually the secret comes out and we're given a masterful demonstration in how to bring the various threads together into a final concluding final quarter which sees them risking all in one gallant effort to rid the land of the disease at its heart.
Overall another great addition to this writing duo's catalogue and I'd certainly be happy returning to the world to see what's going on!
Now, you might say that should be the case with any narrative but it's not always the case, sometimes an author might introduce a break chapter to give the reader a chance to absorb what's been going on previously. Other times there might be a side character who has focus for a short period.
Either way, what you get with The Black King is the excellent writing this duo have become known for within the paranormal and fantasy worlds, a tightly paced action and character-led setting that rolls along gathering momentum as the details unfold.
Both main characters are compelling in their own right with quite distinctive personal journeys which I found fascinating. Leon, the former Prince who was spirited away as the rest of his family was slaughtered by a usurping cousin, is a man who has never been able to forget his origins, even as he tries in small ways to give back to the people who don't know who he is.
Quentin, on the other hand, shouldn't even be alive. He's been fighting off one potentially deadly illness after another since he was six-years-old, seeing his mother fall to a plague and his father die in action as a guard not long after.
He has a huge sense of obligation to the villagers who have kept him alive, looked after him, stopped him from being alone and when he's offered a quest and a bargain from a mysterious woman, he accepts it eagerly if it means he can have some way of offering back to those who've helped him.
And, here I will just say that this is the one element of the story I don't think is ever properly explained, which may be a specific choice on the part of the authors, or could be down to it originally being a serial release, I'm not sure.
But the reasons for the mysterious witch's behaviour and her bargaining is never discovered, it's just a throwaway reference to her perhaps offering advice to previous generations of Leon's family which went ignored. It never really made sense to me to be honest and is the one area I felt the plot lacking.
The rest of the book is a thoroughly entertaining fantasy romp as Leon trains Quentin and finds out that the young man has a spine of steel to go along with his determination to find the rightful King and restore them to the throne.
Eventually the secret comes out and we're given a masterful demonstration in how to bring the various threads together into a final concluding final quarter which sees them risking all in one gallant effort to rid the land of the disease at its heart.
Overall another great addition to this writing duo's catalogue and I'd certainly be happy returning to the world to see what's going on!
July 8, 2026
Grrr I really need to write reviews right after reading because it's only been a few days but I've read other things in that time and it's hard for me to remember this one beyond knowing I had really positive feelings lol.
Strangely, I've read only one other title by this author duo and hated it. Truly just thought it was shit and didn't think I'd ever try them again. But I'm in my fantasy era right now and I liked the sound of this. I didn't realize until I'd downloaded it that I had actually tried these authors before. But however bad I thought the other was, I thought this was super well written and really liked it so 🤷♀️.
I liked the writing, the structure, the MCs (Leon needed a little work but he mostly got there), and the overall plot. This was fairly short so the romance didn't get quite as much development as I'd have liked, but I think, given a little more time and space, it would've been really good.
The ending was a little anticlimactic/rushed but I'd still give this duo another shot - but maybe stick with their medieval fantasy instead of the urban fantasy I disliked.
Pet names: sweetheart, my love
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: Quentin had never felt desire before and I don't recall there being any details of Leon's past. There was a moment of jealousy but it was a misunderstanding.
Strangely, I've read only one other title by this author duo and hated it. Truly just thought it was shit and didn't think I'd ever try them again. But I'm in my fantasy era right now and I liked the sound of this. I didn't realize until I'd downloaded it that I had actually tried these authors before. But however bad I thought the other was, I thought this was super well written and really liked it so 🤷♀️.
I liked the writing, the structure, the MCs (Leon needed a little work but he mostly got there), and the overall plot. This was fairly short so the romance didn't get quite as much development as I'd have liked, but I think, given a little more time and space, it would've been really good.
The ending was a little anticlimactic/rushed but I'd still give this duo another shot - but maybe stick with their medieval fantasy instead of the urban fantasy I disliked.
Pet names: sweetheart, my love
I hadn’t been afraid in years, except of what my existence was doing to the people around me. Death had been a constant companion, and it was difficult to fear someone you’d walked with for so long. Hell, there had been a time I would have welcomed that embrace. Now, though, I was afraid of death again.
Always remember this. There’s no glory in killing a man. No joy. Only death.
I’d meant to keep him safe, but I hadn’t accounted for his stubbornness. I hadn’t realized he would follow me all the way out here, hoping I was something more than what I was.
All my life, this man had hunted me down, and he didn’t even know the shape of the monster that haunted him.
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: Quentin had never felt desire before and I don't recall there being any details of Leon's past. There was a moment of jealousy but it was a misunderstanding.
March 6, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
I have always enjoyed a good “lost and restored royal heir” story and, having read previous books by this author duo, I entered into this story with high hopes. However, this book assumed a lot, so much so that I ended up having to go back and re-read some chapters to see if I’d missed something or misread, only to find that I hadn’t. So much of the early character rapport and slowly building friendship and romantic interest between the two leads happens off page, which meant that Leon’s tearful walking away or Quentin’s feelings of betrayal felt absolutely hollow. Having never seen the buildup, having never felt any chemistry beyond the “I’m horny and could use a fuck” energy of Leon or the “Oh my good, he’s so pretty I want to fuck him” energy of Quentin, I just didn’t care, because there was not enough in the story to help me earn that care.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
I have always enjoyed a good “lost and restored royal heir” story and, having read previous books by this author duo, I entered into this story with high hopes. However, this book assumed a lot, so much so that I ended up having to go back and re-read some chapters to see if I’d missed something or misread, only to find that I hadn’t. So much of the early character rapport and slowly building friendship and romantic interest between the two leads happens off page, which meant that Leon’s tearful walking away or Quentin’s feelings of betrayal felt absolutely hollow. Having never seen the buildup, having never felt any chemistry beyond the “I’m horny and could use a fuck” energy of Leon or the “Oh my good, he’s so pretty I want to fuck him” energy of Quentin, I just didn’t care, because there was not enough in the story to help me earn that care.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
March 3, 2023
The Black King was a really fun read. Lots of action and great characterization. The pacing is pretty telling that this was from a serial. Though a bit off in some parts, the overall tone and atmosphere as well as the world building were done nicely. The characters are likeable and I did really felt for Quentin and Leon and adored their relationship. The emotional beats of the story was really done well as well.
I'd recommend giving the book a try.
This would be 4 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
I'd recommend giving the book a try.
This would be 4 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
February 2, 2024
An epic fantasy book that doesn't need 600+ pages to tell me a great story? Sold!
In just over 190 pages, the authors tell us a story of betrayal, intrigue, loss, action and adventure, found family and romance.
Leon lost it all the day his cousin decided to kill his entire family and knights of the royal guard who tried to defend them, and for 25 years he has been wandering around the territory of his country taking jobs and helping those who need it most, but he has never stopped running.
Quentin never had anything, he was always a sickly child whose parents died and is now in the care of neighbors and family friends, until one day a mysterious woman appears at his house and offers him a deal: to regain his health in exchange for finding the rightful king and place him on the throne.
I loved the story. The construction of the world may seem simple, but it contains everything the reader needs to know what the environment in which the characters live and the sociopolitical situation of their territory is like.
You don't need pages and pages full of unnecessary details to create an epic fantasy world, just the key details so readers can imagine the rest, and I think the authors did a great job.
In just over 190 pages, the authors tell us a story of betrayal, intrigue, loss, action and adventure, found family and romance.
Leon lost it all the day his cousin decided to kill his entire family and knights of the royal guard who tried to defend them, and for 25 years he has been wandering around the territory of his country taking jobs and helping those who need it most, but he has never stopped running.
Quentin never had anything, he was always a sickly child whose parents died and is now in the care of neighbors and family friends, until one day a mysterious woman appears at his house and offers him a deal: to regain his health in exchange for finding the rightful king and place him on the throne.
I loved the story. The construction of the world may seem simple, but it contains everything the reader needs to know what the environment in which the characters live and the sociopolitical situation of their territory is like.
You don't need pages and pages full of unnecessary details to create an epic fantasy world, just the key details so readers can imagine the rest, and I think the authors did a great job.
April 11, 2023
Pretty average for a short form book. Always wanting more exposition, but a fun little story.
May 21, 2023
Это либо фанфик по Геральту и Лютику, либо вдохновлено фанфиками по Геральту и Лютику.
October 23, 2023
This is the kind of book I like to read when I’m sick. It was adventurous and an entertaining story.
May 2, 2023
king and consort
Two people nudged by fate (or a witch) to save a nation by reclaiming the throne. Epic, but with an understanding that people are messy, scared and still deserve to prosper.
Two people nudged by fate (or a witch) to save a nation by reclaiming the throne. Epic, but with an understanding that people are messy, scared and still deserve to prosper.
August 13, 2024
3.2
Fue un libro entretenido, si pudo haber tenido un mejor desarrollo de la trama y la relación de los protas, me hubiese gustado ver más de ellos, lo sentí más que nada físico, Quentin si era muy bueno y me gustaba su personalidad pero Leon era bastante pendejo, así que ahí si no entendi, más allá de lo físico, por qué le gustaría al otro.
Lo que fue una decepción absoluta fue la batalla final, me hicieron esperar pensando que iba a ser WOW y fue meh.
Aún así me entretuvo y me gustó ver cómo se iba dando todo.
Fue un libro entretenido, si pudo haber tenido un mejor desarrollo de la trama y la relación de los protas, me hubiese gustado ver más de ellos, lo sentí más que nada físico, Quentin si era muy bueno y me gustaba su personalidad pero Leon era bastante pendejo, así que ahí si no entendi, más allá de lo físico, por qué le gustaría al otro.
Lo que fue una decepción absoluta fue la batalla final, me hicieron esperar pensando que iba a ser WOW y fue meh.
Aún así me entretuvo y me gustó ver cómo se iba dando todo.
January 30, 2025
This was a nice fantasy novel but I think it lacked a bit the character depth I expect from Sam Burns.
Quentin was a bit too perfect for me and the first part was a bit too long but the ending too short.
so maybe it was just me or i am critizising on a very high level.
but in all I really enjoyed it
Quentin was a bit too perfect for me and the first part was a bit too long but the ending too short.
so maybe it was just me or i am critizising on a very high level.
but in all I really enjoyed it
March 10, 2023
Glorious sword and scorcery romp. With a surly knight who is really the long lost king and a sunshine apprentice this story is an utter joy.
It's got everything. Swords, magic, bandits, an evil but cowardly 'king' on the throne, a quest, and goats. Lots and lots of goats.
* grumpyxsunshine
* opposites attract
* age gap (15ish years)
* one true king
* virgin mc
* quest
Highly recommended.
It's got everything. Swords, magic, bandits, an evil but cowardly 'king' on the throne, a quest, and goats. Lots and lots of goats.
* grumpyxsunshine
* opposites attract
* age gap (15ish years)
* one true king
* virgin mc
* quest
Highly recommended.
April 11, 2023
Bloody bells
A truly interesting story that came from a newsletter serial and builds into a world of taking back the throne when perhaps it wasn't always the plan.
Quentin has been sick most of his life, so he knows both gratitude and responsibility intimately. His entire village has kept him alive through lean times, so when a witch gives him his health it is his responsibility to give back to the town by getting them through this bad patch. As the witch has said the way to do that is to restore the rightful king to the throne, something he sets out to do.
Leon had his family killed in a bloody coup and none of the nobles or guards ever tried to protest what happened. He first learned to hide and survive and now seeks to help his countrymen but not by being their king. They do not deserve him giving his life when no one wanted his family there anyway.
Quentin is driven by responsibility as well as a fear of losing his health if he does not succeed. In finding out that Leon is the lost prince he wants to put him on the throne, but doesn't know how to go about it or how to convince the reluctant prince. And if Leon does become king Quentin will lose the man he is only just beginning to get to know. Uncertain and soon on the run together, the two men have to decide what is most important to them and seize it before all is lost.
There is a good time span in this novel even when it isn't all written out. There are weeks of travelling and training which are talked about, so there isn't a rushed quality to it and things truly can build. The difficulties of royalty in such times, the responsibilities and expectations, and giving up of yourself. Choosing others over you is big, but if done right can benefit you as well, and this complicated balance is shown. It was a good story with some nice depth to the characters that was a truly enjoyable read!
A truly interesting story that came from a newsletter serial and builds into a world of taking back the throne when perhaps it wasn't always the plan.
Quentin has been sick most of his life, so he knows both gratitude and responsibility intimately. His entire village has kept him alive through lean times, so when a witch gives him his health it is his responsibility to give back to the town by getting them through this bad patch. As the witch has said the way to do that is to restore the rightful king to the throne, something he sets out to do.
Leon had his family killed in a bloody coup and none of the nobles or guards ever tried to protest what happened. He first learned to hide and survive and now seeks to help his countrymen but not by being their king. They do not deserve him giving his life when no one wanted his family there anyway.
Quentin is driven by responsibility as well as a fear of losing his health if he does not succeed. In finding out that Leon is the lost prince he wants to put him on the throne, but doesn't know how to go about it or how to convince the reluctant prince. And if Leon does become king Quentin will lose the man he is only just beginning to get to know. Uncertain and soon on the run together, the two men have to decide what is most important to them and seize it before all is lost.
There is a good time span in this novel even when it isn't all written out. There are weeks of travelling and training which are talked about, so there isn't a rushed quality to it and things truly can build. The difficulties of royalty in such times, the responsibilities and expectations, and giving up of yourself. Choosing others over you is big, but if done right can benefit you as well, and this complicated balance is shown. It was a good story with some nice depth to the characters that was a truly enjoyable read!
March 18, 2023
I didn’t realize the book was so short when I started reading it, so the fast pace kinda took me by surprise. I think that if this was a full length novel, with time for Q and L to fall in love and for the political intrigue to build, I would’ve enjoyed it more. As it is, everything happened a bit too fast and was solved way too easily.
April 30, 2024
interesting characters!
I really liked this story! Lots of character growth, an evil usurper king, a missing heir, adventure, danger, loyalty, a slow burn love, and a smidge of magic.
I really liked this story! Lots of character growth, an evil usurper king, a missing heir, adventure, danger, loyalty, a slow burn love, and a smidge of magic.
April 1, 2023
enjoyed it but missing its full potential
Rating: 3.5🌈
There’s much to admire and really enjoy in fantasy adventure story, The Black King by Sam Burns and W.E. Fawkes . A good royal family slaughtered, a tiny prince saved and secreted away by a family warrior who raises him.
A dying poor boy given a chance to live if he will find a king and place him back onto a stolen throne.
Be still my heart. Those are some fabulous narrative bones here. And the authors create some equally compelling characters and elements to further flesh out their impact and potential.
It starts with the fact that unlike most other books, the knight saving the child prince from his family’s slaughter isn’t a man, but an extremely strong and capable woman. I loved this aspect of the story. Greer is a formidable figure, a fighter, a protector, a goat herder. But like others I related to, I felt that she and others never fully realized their future, being sort of shunted away at the end by a sentence or two.
Leon, the hidden prince who hears the bells of royalty in his head, has the ability to grow and grab at the reader’s heart but he continues to make the same mistakes throughout the book. Any growth is left right up to the very end when there’s no way else to go. That’s a shame because I’d have preferred a slower change in his personality to a forced transition.
Quentin is really the hero here. The sickly boy destined to die until a witch sets him upon a quest. He’s a wonderful example of this type of fantasy archetype. Perseverance is his name, so handsome he shines (thank you, witchcraft), humble of nature and endearing. Oddly, I kept thinking he’d end up in a different role. However, he’s in a great position when he gets his HEA. Hard not to immediately connect and invest in his life struggles.
Along the way, Leon, Quentin, Queer, will meet up with others, including an important character, Errol. He comes into the book, grabs at our hearts, and then goes away until a sentence at the end. It’s a choice made with the knight Greer too.
While she starts out as a powerful part of the narrative, as the drama continues, the rush towards the conclusion is so swift that many of the characters are left behind in the pages. And what should be a climatic battle, turns into a shout, a rout, then the finale.
I couldn’t figure out why a book that had such a strong plot outline and potentially great characters didn’t have the book that was up to polishing it all off in a fully realized way. Where all the characters showed realistic growth, the denouement at the end was satisfying, and all the people we kept company with along the journey were there at the end to celebrate the emotional finale of a great quest.
I believe one reason for the rushed, incomplete nature of this story rests at the end of the description. This wasn’t written as a book but rather as a serialized story for the authors Patreon group. That makes sense. The repetitive pattern in Leon’s behavior, the lack of build up and foundation work for the Kingdom, and lack of depth and development in the witch’s storyline. Expectations are high for a book to see that depth of plotting and multidimensional characters.
Serialized stories? Maybe not so much because of a different style and format.
Either way, it shows here.
Imo, if you’re going to release a serialized story as a book, the authors might want to consider rewriting before publishing it first. Especially one that’s has such great bones!
Rating: 3.5🌈
There’s much to admire and really enjoy in fantasy adventure story, The Black King by Sam Burns and W.E. Fawkes . A good royal family slaughtered, a tiny prince saved and secreted away by a family warrior who raises him.
A dying poor boy given a chance to live if he will find a king and place him back onto a stolen throne.
Be still my heart. Those are some fabulous narrative bones here. And the authors create some equally compelling characters and elements to further flesh out their impact and potential.
It starts with the fact that unlike most other books, the knight saving the child prince from his family’s slaughter isn’t a man, but an extremely strong and capable woman. I loved this aspect of the story. Greer is a formidable figure, a fighter, a protector, a goat herder. But like others I related to, I felt that she and others never fully realized their future, being sort of shunted away at the end by a sentence or two.
Leon, the hidden prince who hears the bells of royalty in his head, has the ability to grow and grab at the reader’s heart but he continues to make the same mistakes throughout the book. Any growth is left right up to the very end when there’s no way else to go. That’s a shame because I’d have preferred a slower change in his personality to a forced transition.
Quentin is really the hero here. The sickly boy destined to die until a witch sets him upon a quest. He’s a wonderful example of this type of fantasy archetype. Perseverance is his name, so handsome he shines (thank you, witchcraft), humble of nature and endearing. Oddly, I kept thinking he’d end up in a different role. However, he’s in a great position when he gets his HEA. Hard not to immediately connect and invest in his life struggles.
Along the way, Leon, Quentin, Queer, will meet up with others, including an important character, Errol. He comes into the book, grabs at our hearts, and then goes away until a sentence at the end. It’s a choice made with the knight Greer too.
While she starts out as a powerful part of the narrative, as the drama continues, the rush towards the conclusion is so swift that many of the characters are left behind in the pages. And what should be a climatic battle, turns into a shout, a rout, then the finale.
I couldn’t figure out why a book that had such a strong plot outline and potentially great characters didn’t have the book that was up to polishing it all off in a fully realized way. Where all the characters showed realistic growth, the denouement at the end was satisfying, and all the people we kept company with along the journey were there at the end to celebrate the emotional finale of a great quest.
I believe one reason for the rushed, incomplete nature of this story rests at the end of the description. This wasn’t written as a book but rather as a serialized story for the authors Patreon group. That makes sense. The repetitive pattern in Leon’s behavior, the lack of build up and foundation work for the Kingdom, and lack of depth and development in the witch’s storyline. Expectations are high for a book to see that depth of plotting and multidimensional characters.
Serialized stories? Maybe not so much because of a different style and format.
Either way, it shows here.
Imo, if you’re going to release a serialized story as a book, the authors might want to consider rewriting before publishing it first. Especially one that’s has such great bones!
February 12, 2023
3.75 stars.
I quite enjoyed this fantasy, lost king, returned to his rightful throne story. Well Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes never disappoint.
I adored Quentin. I adored him from the first moment, being sick and thinking himself a burden to everyone because he couldn't give as much as he was taking from people that didn't have much to themselves. In no point was he wailing his misfortune while feeling entitled to the help he was getting. And when the opportunity arose to become something more than a broken, sick body he took it and set out to do his part, honoring the pact he made with the witch. A pact though after getting to know Leon, he was all to ready not to fulfill, risking his health and life, if fulfilling it would make Leon miserable.
Leon also was a lovely character as well. Helping everyone as he could, as a hired sword, giving back the stolen goods and money, feeding and clothing poor children while having lost everything, a dark shadow dogging his heels and a legacy that had scarred him and wasn't sure he wanted.
I think it was perfect the way Burns and Fawkes never went back in Leon's reluctant feelings when it came to claiming his crown. Even at the very last moment he was hesitant to reach for it, and it was perfect how even when he did, filled him with sorrow and regret.
Through everything Quentin was stalwart and a shield against everyone and a force that pushed him forward to do his kingdom right.
A pity there wasn't an epilogue to give as a glimpse of how Nenyth was fairing though.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I quite enjoyed this fantasy, lost king, returned to his rightful throne story. Well Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes never disappoint.
I adored Quentin. I adored him from the first moment, being sick and thinking himself a burden to everyone because he couldn't give as much as he was taking from people that didn't have much to themselves. In no point was he wailing his misfortune while feeling entitled to the help he was getting. And when the opportunity arose to become something more than a broken, sick body he took it and set out to do his part, honoring the pact he made with the witch. A pact though after getting to know Leon, he was all to ready not to fulfill, risking his health and life, if fulfilling it would make Leon miserable.
Leon also was a lovely character as well. Helping everyone as he could, as a hired sword, giving back the stolen goods and money, feeding and clothing poor children while having lost everything, a dark shadow dogging his heels and a legacy that had scarred him and wasn't sure he wanted.
I think it was perfect the way Burns and Fawkes never went back in Leon's reluctant feelings when it came to claiming his crown. Even at the very last moment he was hesitant to reach for it, and it was perfect how even when he did, filled him with sorrow and regret.
Through everything Quentin was stalwart and a shield against everyone and a force that pushed him forward to do his kingdom right.
A pity there wasn't an epilogue to give as a glimpse of how Nenyth was fairing though.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 11, 2023
Another fun read by Sam Burns and WM Fawkes featuring some of my favourite tropes! We follow the story of Leon aka Prince Revelin and rightful heir to the throne of Nenyth in hiding after his uncle had his entire family murdered as a child to usurp the throne. Now grown and a grumpy mercenary, the last thing he wants to do is seek out danger by trying to reclaim the throne. Enter, Quentin, a young man who is magically and mysteriously cured of a chronic illness by a witch in exchange for finding the erstwhile rightful King and convincing him to reclaim his kingdom.
What follows is a delightful journey where Quentin’s sunny and optimistic disposition clashes with Leon’s eternal gruffness. Nevertheless Leon can’t help but admire Quentin’s determination and above all, his eternal hope in his ability to be a good ruler and save the kingdom from the rule of a greedy and selfish man. Along the way, half of Leon’s battle is convincing himself he is worthy of Quentin’s impression of him as well as his growing love and affection for the prince.
CWs: chronic illness, murder and violence
CNs: this novel is a fantasy MM romance between a commoner and royalty. It is relatively low heat but does contain on-page sex scenes. I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
What follows is a delightful journey where Quentin’s sunny and optimistic disposition clashes with Leon’s eternal gruffness. Nevertheless Leon can’t help but admire Quentin’s determination and above all, his eternal hope in his ability to be a good ruler and save the kingdom from the rule of a greedy and selfish man. Along the way, half of Leon’s battle is convincing himself he is worthy of Quentin’s impression of him as well as his growing love and affection for the prince.
CWs: chronic illness, murder and violence
CNs: this novel is a fantasy MM romance between a commoner and royalty. It is relatively low heat but does contain on-page sex scenes. I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
March 5, 2023
I enjoyed this story of a reluctant king and an untrained peasant tasked to put him on throne. I loved the interesting twist on the usual knight on quest to find heir who has no idea he’s the rightful king.
The characters drive this story. I loved Quentin. He grows a lot, and his quest becomes even more personal when he develops feelings for the knight he finds to teach him to fight. What starts with a deal to regain his health soon becomes so much more. I loved Leon too, and how he comes around, with Quentin’s help, to make the difference their kingdom needs.
Greer is wonderful. I loved her, how she loses almost everything and puts her life on the line to protect Revelin. Morwenna is an enigma. I’d love to know more about her. I liked Errol too and he becomes a part of their found family.
The worldbuilding is fabulous, as I would expect from these authors. The setting felt authentic and detailed which made it easy to visualise. The ending is a satisfying HEA, although I’d love to read more stories set in this world.
The characters drive this story. I loved Quentin. He grows a lot, and his quest becomes even more personal when he develops feelings for the knight he finds to teach him to fight. What starts with a deal to regain his health soon becomes so much more. I loved Leon too, and how he comes around, with Quentin’s help, to make the difference their kingdom needs.
Greer is wonderful. I loved her, how she loses almost everything and puts her life on the line to protect Revelin. Morwenna is an enigma. I’d love to know more about her. I liked Errol too and he becomes a part of their found family.
The worldbuilding is fabulous, as I would expect from these authors. The setting felt authentic and detailed which made it easy to visualise. The ending is a satisfying HEA, although I’d love to read more stories set in this world.
February 26, 2023
The bells
Sword fights and swordplay, you had me at unsheathed! Gah, TFW you hear a battle cry in a book, get goosebumps and want to take up arms yourself to fight for the cause.
“The rightful King of Nenyth was beautiful. Tall and strong, his black curls shining in . . . well, in the firelight. The flames were reflected in his eyes, and it made him look wild. I’d have followed him anywhere.”
Follow, fight, whatever is needed, I’ll do, that is how besotted I am with this book and these warriors. And it’s not just Quentin and his knight that have my forever fealty, it’s those that they care for and those that they fight for. Their love rings so true, so bright, so hopeful, I’m left with the most magical feeling in my heart, which forever lives for Nenyth.
Sword fights and swordplay, you had me at unsheathed! Gah, TFW you hear a battle cry in a book, get goosebumps and want to take up arms yourself to fight for the cause.
“The rightful King of Nenyth was beautiful. Tall and strong, his black curls shining in . . . well, in the firelight. The flames were reflected in his eyes, and it made him look wild. I’d have followed him anywhere.”
Follow, fight, whatever is needed, I’ll do, that is how besotted I am with this book and these warriors. And it’s not just Quentin and his knight that have my forever fealty, it’s those that they care for and those that they fight for. Their love rings so true, so bright, so hopeful, I’m left with the most magical feeling in my heart, which forever lives for Nenyth.
February 20, 2023
I love a good fantasy story full of knights and warriors and kings. Our warriors here are much more humble at first but they have become legend by the end. Quentin has been given his health, but he must find and restore the rightful king to the throne. The only problem is the heir to the throne has been hiding ever since the rest of his family was slaughtered and doesn’t really want to be king. Leon just wants to travel and fight as a merc but fate has other ideas and the kingdom of Nenyth desperately needs its king back. I absolutely loved these characters and got quickly sucked through this tale from beginning to end. Definitely worth a read.
February 23, 2023
The Black King was a great fantasy story. Quentin and Leon were such a great characters, Quentin has always been sick and almost dying but he is given a chance by a witch, for his health, he must find and restore the rightful king to the throne. But he must learn to fight and find the heir to the throne who has been hiding ever since his family was slaughtered, a king who really doesn’t really want to be king. Leon has become a merc, he helps get rid of the bad guys it’s his only way to take care of the people of the kingdom. When Quentin approach him asking to learn to fight they start to develop a friendship and more… I absolutely adore Quentin he was amazing, he shows Leon that he can become what ever he wants, I like the story and this was very entertaining!
March 3, 2023
Burns and Fawkes do it again. They create such a wonderful world in which a person can immerse themselves into so easily. loved this tale of the reluctant king and the supporting side kick later turned spouse. You have the one that knows change is needed but is wary to make and the other willing to support and sacrifice things to help him understand that change is needed and a good thing. Leon is in hiding due to his family being slaughtered and Quentin is tasked with finding him and putting him on the throne in order to become healthy since that is the bargain he made with a witch. Throughout the book you see these two struggle, learn, and grow into the roles that they were made for
March 3, 2023
It's always great to see an epic quest where good is desperately fighting to triumph over evil and this is a wonderful example of that. What I really loved about Leon and Quentin is that despite their own trials and tribulations of Quentin's illness and Leon's being the sole surviving witness to his family's slaughter and being forced to hid his true identity both men have tried to serve others in gratitude for the care and kindness they have received from others. When a witch's gift allows them to meet and join forces, their strength of character and the justice of their cause makes them formidable opponents.
March 4, 2023
I love fantasy romances and these authors have the genre down to an art form.
Leon and Quentin are on opposite sides of the system but both are at heart good men who try their best to help others in spite of their own situations.
Leon is hiding from a role he no longer wishes to fill but ultimately realizes that he must in order to make right wrongs happening to his people.
Quentin has been granted a boon and in order to maintain his gift he must convince Leon to accept his role.
He also has big shoes to fill and fears he'll never be up to the task.
As they train together and get to know one another they realize they are exactly what the other needed.
Leon and Quentin are on opposite sides of the system but both are at heart good men who try their best to help others in spite of their own situations.
Leon is hiding from a role he no longer wishes to fill but ultimately realizes that he must in order to make right wrongs happening to his people.
Quentin has been granted a boon and in order to maintain his gift he must convince Leon to accept his role.
He also has big shoes to fill and fears he'll never be up to the task.
As they train together and get to know one another they realize they are exactly what the other needed.
March 21, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this read, but almost more for the secondary characters and underlying story than the two MCs themselves. It’s adventure, it’s romance, but it’s also a novella, which for me means things move fast and being committed to a one-shot read pays off. Leon and Quentin’s story definitely benefits from being able to sit down and read in a couple of hours, but Greer, the enigmatic witch, the nobles at the ready - all kept me engaged as I read it in fits and starts. Dare I say I’d have loved to see more? Novellas by definition don’t delve deep but the world-building makes me curious to see what happens next for these two.
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