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The Ever-Setting Sun #1
Under an Ever-Setting Sun
Dark Fantasy as you've never seen it before!
In a world steeped in shadow and forever on the brink of night, the ever-setting sun casts its eerie half-light across a city where the dead are raised to serve the living. Recently arrived at this twilight city, the paddle steamer ‘Queen of the South’ has been missing for a hundred years with no explanation as to its disappearance. Six strangers drawn together by fate and prophesy and ritual murder must unravel the mystery of the ship and the witch who travelled upon it. Along the way, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens their world, and it’s unclear to them whether they’re working to save the world, or destroy it.
Under an Ever-Setting Sun is an action-packed adventure with high stakes and epic plot twists in a richly-detailed fantasy setting quite unlike anything you’ve read before. Vividly drawn characters leap off the page as they contend with devils and witches and pirates, while navigating a world filled with the risen dead.
In a world steeped in shadow and forever on the brink of night, the ever-setting sun casts its eerie half-light across a city where the dead are raised to serve the living. Recently arrived at this twilight city, the paddle steamer ‘Queen of the South’ has been missing for a hundred years with no explanation as to its disappearance. Six strangers drawn together by fate and prophesy and ritual murder must unravel the mystery of the ship and the witch who travelled upon it. Along the way, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens their world, and it’s unclear to them whether they’re working to save the world, or destroy it.
Under an Ever-Setting Sun is an action-packed adventure with high stakes and epic plot twists in a richly-detailed fantasy setting quite unlike anything you’ve read before. Vividly drawn characters leap off the page as they contend with devils and witches and pirates, while navigating a world filled with the risen dead.
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2025
18 people are currently reading
1136 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 20, 2025
Under an Ever-Setting Sun by Matthew Phillips is an extraordinary piece of fantasy writing — bold, immersive, and utterly original. From the moment you step into the world where the sun never quite sets and the dead walk among the living, you know you’re in for something special.
Phillips crafts a universe that feels both otherworldly and strangely familiar — a city locked in perpetual twilight, haunted by lost souls and stitched together by ancient prophecies. His ability to balance haunting atmosphere with rich character work is remarkable. Every page feels alive with mystery, tension, and wonder.
The cast of characters is unforgettable: flawed, human, and deeply compelling. Each one carries secrets, pain, and purpose, and as their fates intertwine, the story unfolds with breathtaking precision. The pacing is perfectly judged — never rushed, never dragging — and the emotional stakes keep you invested right to the end.
What truly makes this novel shine is its world-building. The ever-setting sun is more than just a backdrop — it’s a living, breathing symbol of time, loss, and hope. Phillips writes with the kind of vivid imagination that pulls you completely into the page. His prose is lyrical yet sharp, creating scenes that are as cinematic as they are emotionally charged.
This isn’t just fantasy; it’s an exploration of humanity, survival, and belief. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve finished, lingering like the twilight it so beautifully describes.
In short: a captivating, thought-provoking, and gorgeously written novel that deserves every bit of praise it gets.
If you enjoy immersive worlds, morally complex heroes, and stories that challenge and inspire, Under an Ever-Setting Sun is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Simply brilliant. A modern fantasy classic in the making.
Phillips crafts a universe that feels both otherworldly and strangely familiar — a city locked in perpetual twilight, haunted by lost souls and stitched together by ancient prophecies. His ability to balance haunting atmosphere with rich character work is remarkable. Every page feels alive with mystery, tension, and wonder.
The cast of characters is unforgettable: flawed, human, and deeply compelling. Each one carries secrets, pain, and purpose, and as their fates intertwine, the story unfolds with breathtaking precision. The pacing is perfectly judged — never rushed, never dragging — and the emotional stakes keep you invested right to the end.
What truly makes this novel shine is its world-building. The ever-setting sun is more than just a backdrop — it’s a living, breathing symbol of time, loss, and hope. Phillips writes with the kind of vivid imagination that pulls you completely into the page. His prose is lyrical yet sharp, creating scenes that are as cinematic as they are emotionally charged.
This isn’t just fantasy; it’s an exploration of humanity, survival, and belief. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve finished, lingering like the twilight it so beautifully describes.
In short: a captivating, thought-provoking, and gorgeously written novel that deserves every bit of praise it gets.
If you enjoy immersive worlds, morally complex heroes, and stories that challenge and inspire, Under an Ever-Setting Sun is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Simply brilliant. A modern fantasy classic in the making.
April 9, 2026
Reading Under an Ever-Setting Sun reminded me why the self-published Fantasy space is so special.
Unique.
Full of charm.
Expansive and ambitious.
The world created by Matthew Phillips shines through as one of the the most memorable, engaging, and stand-out settings that i've had the pleasure of reading in the fantasy space in recent memory. Its not just me, though, almost every review for this book drives home the same point. The author swung for the fences with this world and hit a home run.
The tone of this novel is a perfect mix of dark, yet humorous. The stakes are high, but every character does not feel like a slight variation on the same morally gray empty shell, and humor is one of the main ways that the author builds these characters and their relationships. This is integral, as the story is a "ragtag group on a mission" story, so much of the plot and pace revolves around enjoying not just the characters themselves, but the characters *together*.
Phillips employs some common tropes to fantasy, namely prophecy, fate, and the end of the world, but does so in a way that masterfully breathes fresh life into them, while honoring why they are so common to the genre.
My biggest critique would be that the author occasionally slips in what I would deem "over-writing" in the sections that lack much character interaction. It never pulled me from the story, but I think there is a noticeable polish in his dialogue and interactions that can be contrasted from some prose choices in the sections focused mainly on describing the world.
For fans of a more focused plot, this book may also feel like it meanders a tad, but I actually enjoyed the complex nature of the "quest", which actually felt like a ragtag group of misfits throwing spaghetti at a wall to see what stuck. This felt realistic and added to the charm of the book and the world, and allowed for the author to flesh out motives and explore the setting without massive sections of lore-dumping.
If you are looking for a unique take in the fantasy genre, love character focused stories, or are a sucker for pirates, necromancy, DnD style campaigns, and a dark but humorous world, you need to check out Under an Ever-Setting Sun ASAP!
Unique.
Full of charm.
Expansive and ambitious.
The world created by Matthew Phillips shines through as one of the the most memorable, engaging, and stand-out settings that i've had the pleasure of reading in the fantasy space in recent memory. Its not just me, though, almost every review for this book drives home the same point. The author swung for the fences with this world and hit a home run.
The tone of this novel is a perfect mix of dark, yet humorous. The stakes are high, but every character does not feel like a slight variation on the same morally gray empty shell, and humor is one of the main ways that the author builds these characters and their relationships. This is integral, as the story is a "ragtag group on a mission" story, so much of the plot and pace revolves around enjoying not just the characters themselves, but the characters *together*.
Phillips employs some common tropes to fantasy, namely prophecy, fate, and the end of the world, but does so in a way that masterfully breathes fresh life into them, while honoring why they are so common to the genre.
My biggest critique would be that the author occasionally slips in what I would deem "over-writing" in the sections that lack much character interaction. It never pulled me from the story, but I think there is a noticeable polish in his dialogue and interactions that can be contrasted from some prose choices in the sections focused mainly on describing the world.
For fans of a more focused plot, this book may also feel like it meanders a tad, but I actually enjoyed the complex nature of the "quest", which actually felt like a ragtag group of misfits throwing spaghetti at a wall to see what stuck. This felt realistic and added to the charm of the book and the world, and allowed for the author to flesh out motives and explore the setting without massive sections of lore-dumping.
If you are looking for a unique take in the fantasy genre, love character focused stories, or are a sucker for pirates, necromancy, DnD style campaigns, and a dark but humorous world, you need to check out Under an Ever-Setting Sun ASAP!
October 25, 2025
What a wonderful book.
Matthew Phillips creates a fascinating setting in a world of perpetual twilight, filled with interesting characters who come with a variety of skills and talents... I'm still not entirely sure what tricks some of them might have up the sleeves of their finely pressed suits. He does a fantastic job of keeping a reader on their toes as the characters are well developed to the point that I'm still not sure what I expect from at least one of them by the end of the novel.
If you like gritty fantasy, that offers the darkest depths of grief and sacrifice, masterfully interspersed with a smattering of comedy, then you really should give this book a go.
Thank you for your wonderful story, I'm now incredibly excited to get my greedy mitts on book 2 ☺️
Matthew Phillips creates a fascinating setting in a world of perpetual twilight, filled with interesting characters who come with a variety of skills and talents... I'm still not entirely sure what tricks some of them might have up the sleeves of their finely pressed suits. He does a fantastic job of keeping a reader on their toes as the characters are well developed to the point that I'm still not sure what I expect from at least one of them by the end of the novel.
If you like gritty fantasy, that offers the darkest depths of grief and sacrifice, masterfully interspersed with a smattering of comedy, then you really should give this book a go.
Thank you for your wonderful story, I'm now incredibly excited to get my greedy mitts on book 2 ☺️
March 31, 2026
It's just so cleverly thought out. This doesn't read like a typical debut novel. Its clearly going to be a multi book series and I cannot wait for book 2. The fates of several disparate and well developed characters are interleaved to create a high action adventure with all the things. And I really do mean, All. The. Things. Pirates, zombies, demons, witches who arnt really witches, mystery, plot twists, fate weavers, chases, sword flights, laugh out load moments, even a sentient, shoe obsessed, alligator and more besides. As I said, it's very cleverly done, all with highly detailed world building to immerse yourself in. My favourite character is the Baron (and of course Belle). Would be interested to see if I'm alone in that.
May 24, 2025
A truly original take on the undead. This world captured me from the very beginning with the leap it asks you to make in order to understand a society where all of this is normal.
Throw in a great dollop of mystery, a lovable bunch of misfits and great conflicts and you get a book you'll not want to put down.
Throw in a great dollop of mystery, a lovable bunch of misfits and great conflicts and you get a book you'll not want to put down.
June 6, 2025
Under an Ever Setting Sun is one of those books that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page. Matthew Phillips crafts a hauntingly atmospheric dark fantasy that grabs you from the first chapter and refuses to let go. The world building alone is phenomenal imagine a city trapped in eternal twilight, where the dead walk not as mindless zombies but as tools of society, raised to serve the living. It’s eerie, grim, and yet strangely beautiful.
The novel kicks off with the mysterious return of the Queen of the South, a paddle steamer lost for a century, suddenly appearing again without explanation. From there, things spiral into a complex tangle of prophecy, murder, and dark magic. What I loved most was how the narrative brings together six seemingly unrelated strangers each fully realized with their own pasts and motivations and throws them into this deeply layered mystery. Their relationships, tensions, and personal arcs add real emotional weight to the story.
Phillips doesn’t shy away from the darker corners of his world: witches, devils, and pirates roam its pages, and the line between good and evil blurs in truly satisfying ways. There were moments I thought I had it figured out, only to be completely blindsided by a twist I didn’t see coming. That unpredictability kept the pages turning.
What makes this story really stand out, though, is its tone. It’s not just dark for the sake of being grim; it’s thoughtful, often poetic, and always atmospheric. You feel the weight of the ever setting sun in every scene, every decision. The setting becomes a character in its own right.
If you’re looking for fantasy that dares to be different something with grit, depth, and originality Under an Ever Setting Sun delivers. It’s unsettling in the best way, and I’ll be thinking about these characters and this world for a long time.
The novel kicks off with the mysterious return of the Queen of the South, a paddle steamer lost for a century, suddenly appearing again without explanation. From there, things spiral into a complex tangle of prophecy, murder, and dark magic. What I loved most was how the narrative brings together six seemingly unrelated strangers each fully realized with their own pasts and motivations and throws them into this deeply layered mystery. Their relationships, tensions, and personal arcs add real emotional weight to the story.
Phillips doesn’t shy away from the darker corners of his world: witches, devils, and pirates roam its pages, and the line between good and evil blurs in truly satisfying ways. There were moments I thought I had it figured out, only to be completely blindsided by a twist I didn’t see coming. That unpredictability kept the pages turning.
What makes this story really stand out, though, is its tone. It’s not just dark for the sake of being grim; it’s thoughtful, often poetic, and always atmospheric. You feel the weight of the ever setting sun in every scene, every decision. The setting becomes a character in its own right.
If you’re looking for fantasy that dares to be different something with grit, depth, and originality Under an Ever Setting Sun delivers. It’s unsettling in the best way, and I’ll be thinking about these characters and this world for a long time.
July 2, 2025
This book is amazing!
This isn’t the sort of thing I’d normally read and I hadn’t heard of the author before but I’m glad I gave it a chance. It was sort of a slow burn at first and I wasn’t sure where it was going but I really liked the setting and the characters from the start and wanted to see what happened and every twist and turn made it more and more compelling. It kicked up a gear a few chapters in and the second half of the book was an rollercoaster and I couldn’t put it down. All the plot twists caught me by surprise but every one of them was earned.
(The plot twist with Colin and Elise especially blew my mind!)
I love the vibe of LaCross which is like New Orleans crossed with Venice. It’s always twilight there and full of ‘Risen’ which are like undead so I imagine them like zombies but they work as slaves for the living. It’s very vivid and eerie and gives voodoo vibes. The book promised it was unlike anything I’d read before and it definitely was!
there are six main characters: the Baron is my favourite. He has a magic doll and gives off Gomez Addams vibes. I also like Epifani, who hates the risen and can kill them with her mind. She starts the book on the run, and it’s by saving her that they all meet and start to work together. I love how the characters stories are woven together and they’re all dragged kicking and screaming through the narrative by a guiding hand that they can sense but don’t understand.
The ending is wholly satisfying and again the plot twists were well earned. I like that the door is left open for some sequels, but it didn’t end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for book 2!
This isn’t the sort of thing I’d normally read and I hadn’t heard of the author before but I’m glad I gave it a chance. It was sort of a slow burn at first and I wasn’t sure where it was going but I really liked the setting and the characters from the start and wanted to see what happened and every twist and turn made it more and more compelling. It kicked up a gear a few chapters in and the second half of the book was an rollercoaster and I couldn’t put it down. All the plot twists caught me by surprise but every one of them was earned.
(The plot twist with Colin and Elise especially blew my mind!)
I love the vibe of LaCross which is like New Orleans crossed with Venice. It’s always twilight there and full of ‘Risen’ which are like undead so I imagine them like zombies but they work as slaves for the living. It’s very vivid and eerie and gives voodoo vibes. The book promised it was unlike anything I’d read before and it definitely was!
there are six main characters: the Baron is my favourite. He has a magic doll and gives off Gomez Addams vibes. I also like Epifani, who hates the risen and can kill them with her mind. She starts the book on the run, and it’s by saving her that they all meet and start to work together. I love how the characters stories are woven together and they’re all dragged kicking and screaming through the narrative by a guiding hand that they can sense but don’t understand.
The ending is wholly satisfying and again the plot twists were well earned. I like that the door is left open for some sequels, but it didn’t end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for book 2!
June 7, 2025
Sailing into port, we are introduced to a new city - and a new world - through the eyes of one of the passengers. We share in his experience of all the sights and sounds of La Crosse through vivid and beautiful description. He shares a prophecy, introducing a sense of intrigue which develops throughout the novel. There is clearly more to this travelling monk than piety and obedience, as we can see from his rather wicked sense of humour: I can imagine his eyes twinkling behind his mask as he purposely discomforts those around him.
Our focus is then drawn to the dilapidated home of local down-at-heel aristocrat Baron De Ville and his wonderfully eccentric household: definite favourites of mine.
One by one each character is introduced and brings more questions, another part of the mysterious puzzle, and their own individual motivations which draw them together on a dangerous quest.
There is much to love about this book: yes, the developing mystery, gorgeous descriptions, and motley crew of characters, but also the moments of lightness and humour amongst the darkness. Obviously, a fantastic read for lovers of fantasy and adventure, but those who enjoy travel to far-flung places or reading about ancient civilisations will also enjoy this book: it's full of nods to different cultures.
The characters and plot are skillfully woven together and, while the novel is self contained, it also leaves you more than ready for the next part of the adventure.
Our focus is then drawn to the dilapidated home of local down-at-heel aristocrat Baron De Ville and his wonderfully eccentric household: definite favourites of mine.
One by one each character is introduced and brings more questions, another part of the mysterious puzzle, and their own individual motivations which draw them together on a dangerous quest.
There is much to love about this book: yes, the developing mystery, gorgeous descriptions, and motley crew of characters, but also the moments of lightness and humour amongst the darkness. Obviously, a fantastic read for lovers of fantasy and adventure, but those who enjoy travel to far-flung places or reading about ancient civilisations will also enjoy this book: it's full of nods to different cultures.
The characters and plot are skillfully woven together and, while the novel is self contained, it also leaves you more than ready for the next part of the adventure.
January 4, 2026
I really enjoyed how everything fits together - the setting, the magic, and the politics all support the same idea, which makes the story feel mysterious and well planned.
I really liked the author’s writing style. It’s easy to read, flows well, and still feels deep and thoughtful.
The writing is full of mystery and really keeps you engaged. It makes you want to keep reading.
The plots were very good, and I really enjoyed reading the reveals. They were done at the right time and felt very captivating.
The characters were a big highlight for me.
Remy was my favourite — he felt natural, relatable, and had a great mix of humour and depth.
Elise, his sister, was also great. She felt strong, grounded, and pleasant to read about her gift.
Epifani played a crucial role in the story, and that made her character feel very strong and impactful.
I noticed some chemistry between Valanthe and Remy, and I really hope that gets explored more in Book 2.
The book has some genuinely funny moments, especially with the alligator Rufus, who definitely put a smile on my face.
Necromancy being treated like normal everyday work is quietly creepy and works really well.
The ending is slightly surprising and makes the story even more interesting.
Overall, a fantastic book. I’m really looking forward to Beyond the Ever-Setting Sun to learn more about the new world setting and see what happens next with the characters.
I really liked the author’s writing style. It’s easy to read, flows well, and still feels deep and thoughtful.
The writing is full of mystery and really keeps you engaged. It makes you want to keep reading.
The plots were very good, and I really enjoyed reading the reveals. They were done at the right time and felt very captivating.
The characters were a big highlight for me.
Remy was my favourite — he felt natural, relatable, and had a great mix of humour and depth.
Elise, his sister, was also great. She felt strong, grounded, and pleasant to read about her gift.
Epifani played a crucial role in the story, and that made her character feel very strong and impactful.
I noticed some chemistry between Valanthe and Remy, and I really hope that gets explored more in Book 2.
The book has some genuinely funny moments, especially with the alligator Rufus, who definitely put a smile on my face.
Necromancy being treated like normal everyday work is quietly creepy and works really well.
The ending is slightly surprising and makes the story even more interesting.
Overall, a fantastic book. I’m really looking forward to Beyond the Ever-Setting Sun to learn more about the new world setting and see what happens next with the characters.
February 26, 2026
This book took me a few chapters to understand what was going on fully, and the world building has a slow build up. But once you get past those chapters, you understand why it’s been written that way and it wouldn’t be the same book without it.
The depth of detail that Mat goes into; to describe the character’s, environments and Risen is amazing. You can picture everything in your head. The fight scenes are action-packed, high stakes and intense and are written perfectly.
Information that you are given at the beginning of the book, you think it isn’t relevant until you get farther into it and you realise it all comes back, full circle. It really makes you think, “Oh shit, yeah!”
There are funny moments, intense moments and sad moments. The way the character’s are written, you really get to know their personalities and you begin to feel like you’re part of the group, joining them on their adventure’s.
The more I read, the more into the story I got. I’ve learnt who the character’s are and have built a different level of attachment to each one. My favourite’s have to be Colin and Remy. Their dynamic is great. Colin is so funny, things he says and does.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of dark fantasy. I am more than ready for book two and can’t wait to see how the story unfolds more and what character’s get up to or what trouble they get into.
The depth of detail that Mat goes into; to describe the character’s, environments and Risen is amazing. You can picture everything in your head. The fight scenes are action-packed, high stakes and intense and are written perfectly.
Information that you are given at the beginning of the book, you think it isn’t relevant until you get farther into it and you realise it all comes back, full circle. It really makes you think, “Oh shit, yeah!”
There are funny moments, intense moments and sad moments. The way the character’s are written, you really get to know their personalities and you begin to feel like you’re part of the group, joining them on their adventure’s.
The more I read, the more into the story I got. I’ve learnt who the character’s are and have built a different level of attachment to each one. My favourite’s have to be Colin and Remy. Their dynamic is great. Colin is so funny, things he says and does.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of dark fantasy. I am more than ready for book two and can’t wait to see how the story unfolds more and what character’s get up to or what trouble they get into.
March 19, 2026
Under an Ever Setting Sun by Matthew Phillips is a deeply engaging and atmospheric read that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve turned the final page. What makes this book truly stand out is its ability to draw the reader into its world so completely that you don’t just follow the story—you feel like you’re living inside it.
Phillips’ writing is rich and immersive, painting scenes with such clarity that it becomes effortless to imagine every detail. The environments feel tangible, the emotions feel real, and the characters are portrayed in a way that makes you connect with them on a personal level. At times, it feels less like reading and more like witnessing events unfold firsthand, as if you’re standing alongside the characters, experiencing their journey with them.
The novel’s strength lies in how naturally it blends storytelling with atmosphere, allowing your imagination to take over. It invites you to step beyond the page and become part of the narrative, making each moment more impactful and memorable.
Overall, Under an Ever Setting Sun is a meaningful and captivating read—one that doesn’t just tell a story, but creates an experience. It’s the kind of book that reminds you of the power of imagination and how deeply a well-written story can pull you in.
Phillips’ writing is rich and immersive, painting scenes with such clarity that it becomes effortless to imagine every detail. The environments feel tangible, the emotions feel real, and the characters are portrayed in a way that makes you connect with them on a personal level. At times, it feels less like reading and more like witnessing events unfold firsthand, as if you’re standing alongside the characters, experiencing their journey with them.
The novel’s strength lies in how naturally it blends storytelling with atmosphere, allowing your imagination to take over. It invites you to step beyond the page and become part of the narrative, making each moment more impactful and memorable.
Overall, Under an Ever Setting Sun is a meaningful and captivating read—one that doesn’t just tell a story, but creates an experience. It’s the kind of book that reminds you of the power of imagination and how deeply a well-written story can pull you in.
April 22, 2026
Fantasy fans - read this!
In short, I loved this.
A friend recommended it from a Tiktok, they are not much of a reader, but thought I might like it. I do.
The world building is excellent. The right blend of creating a new world but not overwhelming with endless details about plants or skylines. The main characters are well balanced, with one that is intentionally irritating.
Mat Phillips used comedy to great effect and I found myself laughing at the interactions between the characters.
The plot has a lot of fantasy elements to it; fortune telling, the undead, religious beliefs and practices, supernatural powers in the form of 'gifts or curses', epic journeys and different players. The rag tag team is formed and friendships are made.
It is epic, and very satisfyingly so.
I always have a moment of fear when a book says it is dark fantasy. I worry there will be a coercive control, dominance based relationship, and I don't want to read about any of that. If this is a fear you share. Be reassured their relationships are friend-based, no romance, and nothing coercive or controlling between any of the main characters.
This is excellent and I am off to read the next one.
In short, I loved this.
A friend recommended it from a Tiktok, they are not much of a reader, but thought I might like it. I do.
The world building is excellent. The right blend of creating a new world but not overwhelming with endless details about plants or skylines. The main characters are well balanced, with one that is intentionally irritating.
Mat Phillips used comedy to great effect and I found myself laughing at the interactions between the characters.
The plot has a lot of fantasy elements to it; fortune telling, the undead, religious beliefs and practices, supernatural powers in the form of 'gifts or curses', epic journeys and different players. The rag tag team is formed and friendships are made.
It is epic, and very satisfyingly so.
I always have a moment of fear when a book says it is dark fantasy. I worry there will be a coercive control, dominance based relationship, and I don't want to read about any of that. If this is a fear you share. Be reassured their relationships are friend-based, no romance, and nothing coercive or controlling between any of the main characters.
This is excellent and I am off to read the next one.
April 22, 2026
Genuinely a really pleasant read throughout. Such a great story, with brilliant characters to carry it across the pages. The settings are well fleshed out, with strong introductions to characters who I imagine we’ll be seeing throughout the Ever-Setting Sun series.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy the New Orleans setting. However, it was written so well that it quickly grew on me. Everything, the environment and the characters, felt lived in, which made it feel natural and immersive, while still capturing the slightly “off” feeling of living in perpetual twilight.
The story gripped me from the first chapter, which helped a lot. I didn’t really want to put the book down over the last couple of days, and ended up sinking a good number of hours into it, finishing it in just 4/5 days which is not normal for me, with my reading habits.
Overall, a great read. Definitely recommend, and I’m excited for the rest of the series.
The Dead Serve the Living!
At first, I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy the New Orleans setting. However, it was written so well that it quickly grew on me. Everything, the environment and the characters, felt lived in, which made it feel natural and immersive, while still capturing the slightly “off” feeling of living in perpetual twilight.
The story gripped me from the first chapter, which helped a lot. I didn’t really want to put the book down over the last couple of days, and ended up sinking a good number of hours into it, finishing it in just 4/5 days which is not normal for me, with my reading habits.
Overall, a great read. Definitely recommend, and I’m excited for the rest of the series.
The Dead Serve the Living!
January 30, 2026
A breathtaking debut novel that is lushly written. Phillips manages to juggle the macabre with the humorous in this darkly inventive take on New Orleans and the bayou.
Set in a world where the sun rests in perpetual twilight the people have embraced necromancy to reanimate the dead to do menial work for them.
Bouncing between numerous points of view you meet a core cast of characters that range from a (nearly) horned up teenage boy to a mysterious healer monk. The story shines most with the massive cast of side characters who give the story so much heart and depth.
A fast paced, visceral read that draws heavily from New Orleans culture and the haunting magic of the bayou be prepared to dine with devils, battle pirates and cross blades with necromancers as the threads of fate bind tightly
Set in a world where the sun rests in perpetual twilight the people have embraced necromancy to reanimate the dead to do menial work for them.
Bouncing between numerous points of view you meet a core cast of characters that range from a (nearly) horned up teenage boy to a mysterious healer monk. The story shines most with the massive cast of side characters who give the story so much heart and depth.
A fast paced, visceral read that draws heavily from New Orleans culture and the haunting magic of the bayou be prepared to dine with devils, battle pirates and cross blades with necromancers as the threads of fate bind tightly
February 25, 2026
Under an Ever-Setting Sun completely pulled me into its shadowy, mysterious world. The atmosphere is insanely vivid, like you can feel the half-light on your skin and hear the creaking of the paddle steamer. Matthew Phillips does a masterful job of blending dark fantasy, suspense, and rich world-building.
The characters are layered and unpredictable; each one feels real, and the way their fates intertwine keeps you guessing at every turn. The mix of witches, pirates, and ritualistic mystery adds a freshness that makes the story feel alive and dangerous. The plot twists hit hard and the stakes never let up, making this impossible to put down.
If you love dark, immersive fantasy with complex characters and a story that keeps you on edge, this book is a must-read. I’m already itching for the next installment.
The characters are layered and unpredictable; each one feels real, and the way their fates intertwine keeps you guessing at every turn. The mix of witches, pirates, and ritualistic mystery adds a freshness that makes the story feel alive and dangerous. The plot twists hit hard and the stakes never let up, making this impossible to put down.
If you love dark, immersive fantasy with complex characters and a story that keeps you on edge, this book is a must-read. I’m already itching for the next installment.
May 25, 2025
I've loved this book! It's an epic adventure with such engaging and charming characters, set in world that's so richly drawn and quite unlike anything I've read in the genre. I found that my favourite character changed several times over the course of the book... I'm still undecided on a clear winner!
(It's between Remi, The Baron and Colin... I think...)
I feel like we're only scratching the surface of the intricacies of this world... there's much more to explore and I'm really looking forward to reading more books in the series.
Clear recommendation... go read this book.
(It's between Remi, The Baron and Colin... I think...)
I feel like we're only scratching the surface of the intricacies of this world... there's much more to explore and I'm really looking forward to reading more books in the series.
Clear recommendation... go read this book.
February 12, 2026
This was the first book I have read properly, having decided to start reading at the age of 33. dark fantasy isn't my usual go to genre, however this book changes that. What Matthew Phillips has done is create a world that truly feels alive. Right from the opening page you feel like you're walking the streets of La Crosse with the characters, who are all introduced in an amazing manor. it's gripping with some excellent storytelling. this has been an amazing read, I really & truly enjoyed this book, it's opened up a whole new world for me.
September 19, 2025
Four and half star review. I really like the characters in the book and the story is very rich with characters and the story really grip too. I like that it like new Orleans set's and different types of undead story too. Very unique story and incredible characters. Can't wait for book two to come out. I highly recommend everyone reads this book now. 8.5 out of 10 experience. Enjoy! No spoilers review.
December 20, 2025
Not my usual type of book, however I really enjoyed it once I started. Matthew spins an intricate plot with detailed character development. It has great depth and you do need to really set time aside to understand the various sub plots. It is almost like you escape into this world and can very well disappear in it for a few hours. (!)
The characters are brought to life exceptionally well. If you like this genre this is the book well worth reading!
The characters are brought to life exceptionally well. If you like this genre this is the book well worth reading!
February 10, 2026
A really unique setting with a solid mix of characters. I love a book with a unique setting that is more than just decoration- the widespread necromancy and politics are a direct result of the climate. People just accept dead serving the living because who would maintain the crops that are extremely laborious to grow there.
Every turn and twist, every reveal and resolution feels earned and exactly how it should be. It’s one of the books you just want another one of when they end.
Every turn and twist, every reveal and resolution feels earned and exactly how it should be. It’s one of the books you just want another one of when they end.
March 31, 2026
Such an incredible read. The first book that has kept me on the end of my seat allowing me to finish it in such a short amount of time. I usually read non fiction so this was a little step out of my zone but gosh was it worth it! Onto the next and a huge round of applause to Matthew. Remy is my favourite so far… can’t wait to see who my next may be. If you’re into a suspenseful fantasy that allows you to question things and sit in mystery; this is for you.
May 24, 2025
A really good read with so much going on I didn’t want to put it down. My dinner went uneaten, my child went unanswered all because I was so absorbed by this book!
I really connected with the characters and felt they were like friends by the end and with so many characters everyone will find one to relate to.
Definitely a recommended read!
I really connected with the characters and felt they were like friends by the end and with so many characters everyone will find one to relate to.
Definitely a recommended read!
November 20, 2025
This book is really something special. The characters and world-building are very well written and believable. Even just reading segments of the characters interacting brings me such joy, they have great chemistry! It's not often I read a fantasy book so unique. I've definitely become a fan of this author and can tell there is a lot of love behind his writing.
March 9, 2026
This book was absolutely phenomenal! The world building automatically draws you in and makes you feel like you are in the book. All the characters are complex & interesting and make you want to know more about them. I was completely absorbed in the book and would recommend it to anybody who loves dark fantasy. Can’t wait for book 2!!
November 18, 2025
This debut book my Matthew Phillips is a fantastic read. Characters you will fall in love with. An immersive world that captives your imagination. Plot twists, adventure, excitement. It is a must for anyone who likes fantasy books.
January 10, 2026
Incredible! Superb world building and character development. You are drawn into the dark world from the first page and never leave until you close the book. Everything I want from a fantasy and more. Can’t wait for number 2
April 12, 2026
This is beyond excellent. Honestly I can't express how good this novel is. The story is detailed and amazing with action all the way with pauses of amusement that will make you laugh out aloud. I can't wait to read Beyond The Ever Setting Sun.
April 15, 2026
This is the second time I have read this book and wow it is absolutely brilliant Every turn and twist, every reveal and resolution feels earned and exactly how it should be where people just expect the dead that survive the living this is an epic fantasy and loved every minute of it
December 27, 2025
What a great book- such an original idea with strong imagery and characters, a gripping page turner of a story with great plot twists, I didn't want it to end!
Excited for the next installment...
Excited for the next installment...
March 12, 2026
So many unique and interesting characters to get wrapped up in. Fun from cover to cover. Excited to see more from this author.
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