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The Sol Crown: Book One in the Fractured Lights Series
Trust is dangerous. Power is stolen. And Elina Banks is deadly.
Hidden behind the sun-drenched, golden walls of Aladria, Elina Banks is more than a skilled fighter. She’s a secret weapon. Masked and lethal, she’s spent four years fighting in the shadows against enemy soldiers and Malus—reanimated corpses fuelled by dark magic—without anyone knowing who she truly is.
But when her identity is exposed, her carefully constructed world collapses. Thrust into the Aladrian Army’s brutal training program, Elina must fight to survive among ruthless recruits, unforgiving trials, and the growing threat from Dunmere, the shadowed kingdom across the border.
And then there’s Stone Carlisle. Her brooding, infuriating rival with ocean-eyes and secrets as dark as her own. He’s maddening. Magnetic. And he sees straight through her defences. The deeper Elina is pulled toward him, the more of her he unravels.
But as their connection grows, so does a darker power beyond the castle walls.
King Dagan of Dunmere is gathering an army of the Gifted—those marked by the Gods on their thirteenth birthday with powerful, elemental abilities. The more he collects, the stronger his forces grow. And he won’t stop until he conquers Aladria.
As war brews, bonds will be tested, blood will be spilled, and Elina will have to decide just how far she’s willing to go—to protect her kingdom, her heart, and the secrets that could unravel everything.
A heart-breaking rivals-to-lovers romantasy, perfect for fans of Fourth Wing and The Metal Slinger, The Sol Crown is a tale of magic, loyalty, and a love that could shatter empires.
Hidden behind the sun-drenched, golden walls of Aladria, Elina Banks is more than a skilled fighter. She’s a secret weapon. Masked and lethal, she’s spent four years fighting in the shadows against enemy soldiers and Malus—reanimated corpses fuelled by dark magic—without anyone knowing who she truly is.
But when her identity is exposed, her carefully constructed world collapses. Thrust into the Aladrian Army’s brutal training program, Elina must fight to survive among ruthless recruits, unforgiving trials, and the growing threat from Dunmere, the shadowed kingdom across the border.
And then there’s Stone Carlisle. Her brooding, infuriating rival with ocean-eyes and secrets as dark as her own. He’s maddening. Magnetic. And he sees straight through her defences. The deeper Elina is pulled toward him, the more of her he unravels.
But as their connection grows, so does a darker power beyond the castle walls.
King Dagan of Dunmere is gathering an army of the Gifted—those marked by the Gods on their thirteenth birthday with powerful, elemental abilities. The more he collects, the stronger his forces grow. And he won’t stop until he conquers Aladria.
As war brews, bonds will be tested, blood will be spilled, and Elina will have to decide just how far she’s willing to go—to protect her kingdom, her heart, and the secrets that could unravel everything.
A heart-breaking rivals-to-lovers romantasy, perfect for fans of Fourth Wing and The Metal Slinger, The Sol Crown is a tale of magic, loyalty, and a love that could shatter empires.
456 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2025
30 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 13, 2025
This book is amazing !!!
It's definitely giving fourth wing without dragons.
I read this book so quickly I didn’t want to put it down. I love when a book grips you from the start like this one did.
The ending I didn't see coming and wow I need book 2 like now.
I absolutely adored the fmc Elina. The secrets she has to keep whilst doing what she does wow I didn’t see expect half of them.
I would say more reluctant allies to lovers than enemies to lovers which I found to be just as good.
I loved the characters in this book Elina’s friends are fab I love Deacon he’s definitely got the comic friend nailed.
Did I see some twists coming yes did I see the ending absolutely not !!!!
It's definitely giving fourth wing without dragons.
I read this book so quickly I didn’t want to put it down. I love when a book grips you from the start like this one did.
The ending I didn't see coming and wow I need book 2 like now.
I absolutely adored the fmc Elina. The secrets she has to keep whilst doing what she does wow I didn’t see expect half of them.
I would say more reluctant allies to lovers than enemies to lovers which I found to be just as good.
I loved the characters in this book Elina’s friends are fab I love Deacon he’s definitely got the comic friend nailed.
Did I see some twists coming yes did I see the ending absolutely not !!!!
September 28, 2025
THE ENDING????? The way I thought I knew exactly where this was going and then it completely switched up!! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
August 12, 2025
A big thank you to Jessica for reaching out to me to read The Sol Crown! This was a great read with a sizzling slow burn that will have you craving more but also keeping you engaged with the world building she created in this book!
You have a War Academy, a great found family, lots of secrets and twist that will have your head turning and a great rivals to lovers or lovers to enemies situation going on!? 👀 yes please!
Elina and Stone’s relationship in this book gave me vibes of Fourth Wing for sure but in its own unique way!
The book starts off learning about Elina entering an elite academy to join the Aladria army to learn more about her people and how to protect them. You meet lots of characters through this journey who you tend to either love or grow suspicious of. I absolutely love Elina’s character tho she is such a badass FMC but also very powerful and dangerous.
This book had one of the best cliffhangers I have read in a long time! I was not expecting that as it will have you craving for more into book 2!
You have a War Academy, a great found family, lots of secrets and twist that will have your head turning and a great rivals to lovers or lovers to enemies situation going on!? 👀 yes please!
Elina and Stone’s relationship in this book gave me vibes of Fourth Wing for sure but in its own unique way!
The book starts off learning about Elina entering an elite academy to join the Aladria army to learn more about her people and how to protect them. You meet lots of characters through this journey who you tend to either love or grow suspicious of. I absolutely love Elina’s character tho she is such a badass FMC but also very powerful and dangerous.
This book had one of the best cliffhangers I have read in a long time! I was not expecting that as it will have you craving for more into book 2!
August 15, 2025
The Sol Crown completely swept me away from page one. The character development and world-building are absolutely stunning — I felt fully immersed in this universe. The slow burn romance pulls you in effortlessly, and just when you think you know where it’s headed… BAM — a plot twist so unexpected I literally said, “Wait, what?!” out loud.
The banter and relationships between the characters hooked me immediately, making every interaction feel alive and meaningful. This was one of those rare reads where I didn’t want it to end. Completely unpredictable, endlessly engaging, and now I’m left desperately wanting more.
Huge thank you to A.F. O’Meara for allowing me the opportunity to ARC read this incredible story — I’m so glad I got to experience it early!
The banter and relationships between the characters hooked me immediately, making every interaction feel alive and meaningful. This was one of those rare reads where I didn’t want it to end. Completely unpredictable, endlessly engaging, and now I’m left desperately wanting more.
Huge thank you to A.F. O’Meara for allowing me the opportunity to ARC read this incredible story — I’m so glad I got to experience it early!
October 16, 2025
Loved this book! It was a nice easy read with really good pacing and I didn’t see the twist at the end coming! Friendships in this book really touched me and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
September 4, 2025
Well…… wow! A debut novel done fantastically well!
I was generously given an arc of this book and when I finished it, I had to take about an hour to de-stress 😂
I feel like this book could definitely be compared to the likes of Silver Elite, Fourth Wing and Throne of Glass in my opinion. It had the reluctant joining of the army similar to Silver Elite & FW with tough trials and training and then the badass FMC with some secrets similar to TOG.
I really liked Elina as a character. I enjoyed her quick wit and retorts especially. I loved her friendship with her guy best friends, I don’t think I’ve recently read a book where a male best friend actually stays a best friend and adds a lot to the story. Deacon forever ❤️
I also loved the apocalyptic vibes of the Malus. It felt original and thrilling and I have so many questions as to why they act different with different people 👀
There is 2/3 notably jaw dropping moments/twists in this book that will have you SHOOK! I’m so impressed with how much it did shock me and that I didn’t see it coming! Particularly the way it ends.
A couple of things I would have loved to have seen more of, is Elina as “The Fox”. The story starts off with Elina already in the a start of the army waiting for her trials and training to start, but it would have been cool to see more of the type of person she was before and her in her role as “The Fox” as I feel like we just get told this is what she is with no real explanation as to why. Unless I missed this?
I also feel like I would have loved more information on the Gifted. Again, it’s kind of just accepted that the gifted exist and you don’t really get a feel for their value until certain events later in the book. Why are they gifted? What’s the history of these types of people?
Overall I think this book was superb, particularly as a debut. Thanks alot Jess for sharing this with me and best of luck with it in the future 🥰
I was generously given an arc of this book and when I finished it, I had to take about an hour to de-stress 😂
I feel like this book could definitely be compared to the likes of Silver Elite, Fourth Wing and Throne of Glass in my opinion. It had the reluctant joining of the army similar to Silver Elite & FW with tough trials and training and then the badass FMC with some secrets similar to TOG.
I really liked Elina as a character. I enjoyed her quick wit and retorts especially. I loved her friendship with her guy best friends, I don’t think I’ve recently read a book where a male best friend actually stays a best friend and adds a lot to the story. Deacon forever ❤️
I also loved the apocalyptic vibes of the Malus. It felt original and thrilling and I have so many questions as to why they act different with different people 👀
There is 2/3 notably jaw dropping moments/twists in this book that will have you SHOOK! I’m so impressed with how much it did shock me and that I didn’t see it coming! Particularly the way it ends.
A couple of things I would have loved to have seen more of, is Elina as “The Fox”. The story starts off with Elina already in the a start of the army waiting for her trials and training to start, but it would have been cool to see more of the type of person she was before and her in her role as “The Fox” as I feel like we just get told this is what she is with no real explanation as to why. Unless I missed this?
I also feel like I would have loved more information on the Gifted. Again, it’s kind of just accepted that the gifted exist and you don’t really get a feel for their value until certain events later in the book. Why are they gifted? What’s the history of these types of people?
Overall I think this book was superb, particularly as a debut. Thanks alot Jess for sharing this with me and best of luck with it in the future 🥰
August 12, 2025
Once in a while, a book comes along which makes you suspend your belief in reality as it completely immerses you, body and soul into a different realm. The Sol Crown is this book for me. I devoured this story in 2 days and was left hungry for more.
Elina Banks is by far my favourite FMC - a dangerous assassin, artful and a powerful weapon, protecting Aladria with her life as she becomes a first year recruit in Elite Squad.
Throughout her journey, we meet a series of side characters, each presented so skilfully by O’Meara, that the reader can’t help form a kinship with: Deacon, Elina’s lifelong friend is hilarious; Junie, a fellow new recruit and kick-ass female, and the stoic character of Sam, protective and reliable.
With growing sexual tension, the slow burn romance between Elina and the MMC is exquisite and when it happens, the spice is spicing! This is the romance you’ve dreamt of and comes to life with each word!
With intrigue, deception, secrets and power usurpation, this book with ruin you in the best way. This book is one of my favourite reads of 2025 and I cannot wait for the next book. I’ll be thinking about the ending of The Sol Crown until I get my hands on book 2
Elina Banks is by far my favourite FMC - a dangerous assassin, artful and a powerful weapon, protecting Aladria with her life as she becomes a first year recruit in Elite Squad.
Throughout her journey, we meet a series of side characters, each presented so skilfully by O’Meara, that the reader can’t help form a kinship with: Deacon, Elina’s lifelong friend is hilarious; Junie, a fellow new recruit and kick-ass female, and the stoic character of Sam, protective and reliable.
With growing sexual tension, the slow burn romance between Elina and the MMC is exquisite and when it happens, the spice is spicing! This is the romance you’ve dreamt of and comes to life with each word!
With intrigue, deception, secrets and power usurpation, this book with ruin you in the best way. This book is one of my favourite reads of 2025 and I cannot wait for the next book. I’ll be thinking about the ending of The Sol Crown until I get my hands on book 2
August 12, 2025
⚔️ War academy
❤️ Rivals to lovers
☠️ Deadly trials
✨Magic system
🖤 Found family
🔥 Secrets & twists
The Sol Crown kept me hooked from the beginning! Three chapters in I knew this would be a 5 star read. It was such a unique read. There were twists upon twists that I never saw coming, and I can’t wait until book 2 comes out!
This books give Fourth Wing vibes without the dragons. And trust me, you don’t miss the dragons! This world and magic system is so unique. Only a limited number of people have powers that they obtain when they turn 13. They are called the Gifted. Some of the powers on display are raising the dead, telekinesis, sending gale forced winds with a breath, and the ability to cause earthquakes and crack open the earth.
I was engaged from the very beginning. There are characters that I love and characters that I hated. I love the banter between all of the characters. It felt like a real, fluid friend group from fairly early on, but it also grew and adapted as the book went on. The character development of not only the main character, but also the supporting characters was pretty great.
Thank you so much to A. F. O’Meara for the opportunity to read this amazing book!
❤️ Rivals to lovers
☠️ Deadly trials
✨Magic system
🖤 Found family
🔥 Secrets & twists
The Sol Crown kept me hooked from the beginning! Three chapters in I knew this would be a 5 star read. It was such a unique read. There were twists upon twists that I never saw coming, and I can’t wait until book 2 comes out!
This books give Fourth Wing vibes without the dragons. And trust me, you don’t miss the dragons! This world and magic system is so unique. Only a limited number of people have powers that they obtain when they turn 13. They are called the Gifted. Some of the powers on display are raising the dead, telekinesis, sending gale forced winds with a breath, and the ability to cause earthquakes and crack open the earth.
I was engaged from the very beginning. There are characters that I love and characters that I hated. I love the banter between all of the characters. It felt like a real, fluid friend group from fairly early on, but it also grew and adapted as the book went on. The character development of not only the main character, but also the supporting characters was pretty great.
Thank you so much to A. F. O’Meara for the opportunity to read this amazing book!
August 16, 2025
I would give this infinity stars! I have not connected with so many characters in a book for so long. there's a "Cassian" type BFF to the FMC that might just out do him in snark and playboy ways, a silent yet deadly secret bodyguard, strong leader with barely leashed rage for an FMC that delivers the best one liners I believe I've ever read, and an MMC that doesn't dare act like she's a fragile woman cause of he does she'll teach him real quick that she's someone to be scared of.
There are high stakes...not everyone will live, military training, strong bonds, hidden identities, heartbreak (I cried) and betrayal.
I saw parts coming even though I hadn't pieced it all together but the ending I DID NOT SEE COMING AT ALL!
This was so well written. I loved the glimpse of the magic that I'm sure we will see more of in the next book.
This is Fourth Wing but better! Fight me in it!!
There are high stakes...not everyone will live, military training, strong bonds, hidden identities, heartbreak (I cried) and betrayal.
I saw parts coming even though I hadn't pieced it all together but the ending I DID NOT SEE COMING AT ALL!
This was so well written. I loved the glimpse of the magic that I'm sure we will see more of in the next book.
This is Fourth Wing but better! Fight me in it!!
August 16, 2025
Ok Junie- I simply cannot! There is something about her that just kept me giggling! Favorite quote: “Would you rather have dicks for fingers or a ball sack for a chin?”… Girl what, who says that lol!
Stone- Smh he irritated me from the very start and my opinion has not changed. There is just something about him that just infuriates me! Without saying too much, he’s definitely one to keep a watchful eye on!
Over all I loved this book, however, I do feel a strong comparison to Fourth With (without the dragons). I do wish it wasn’t so similar but it was still a great read! Looking forward to book 2! I had a feeling the cliffhanger was a gonna be a goodie and it definitely is!
Stone- Smh he irritated me from the very start and my opinion has not changed. There is just something about him that just infuriates me! Without saying too much, he’s definitely one to keep a watchful eye on!
Over all I loved this book, however, I do feel a strong comparison to Fourth With (without the dragons). I do wish it wasn’t so similar but it was still a great read! Looking forward to book 2! I had a feeling the cliffhanger was a gonna be a goodie and it definitely is!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
I definitely didn’t see that plot twist coming! The FMC is badass and carries a huge burden on her shoulders along with many secrets. This book is action packed and has a really cool magic system. There is tension and great banter throughout until about 67% in and then BAM! Elina and stone start spicing it up! Really good slow burn but when the spice hits…it HITS girl! Loved this book and I am foaming out of the mouth for book 2!!!!
April 30, 2026
Excuse me... what was that ending!
The twist has me sat here thinking... how and why! 😂🤷♀️
Such an fab read! The world building was amazing and the magic system is definitely unique!
The FMC Elina was a complete badass from the word go and the MMC Stone... well...what a guy! 🥵 I absolutely love all the side characters too, with Deacon & Sam being my fave. May genuinely cry if something happens to them!!!
If you love a romantasy book that keeps you hooked from the very beginning, then please read this! Can't wait for book 2!!
The twist has me sat here thinking... how and why! 😂🤷♀️
Such an fab read! The world building was amazing and the magic system is definitely unique!
The FMC Elina was a complete badass from the word go and the MMC Stone... well...what a guy! 🥵 I absolutely love all the side characters too, with Deacon & Sam being my fave. May genuinely cry if something happens to them!!!
If you love a romantasy book that keeps you hooked from the very beginning, then please read this! Can't wait for book 2!!
August 12, 2025
IF YOU LIKE FOURTH WING/HUNGER GAMES/SILVERCLOAK THIS IS FOR YOU
I absolutely loved this book, it had everything I personally love in a fantasy romance. High stakes, stabby FMC, brooding MMC, who did this to you, a war academy etc. I stayed awake well into the night to finish this as I couldn’t wait for the next part, there was always something preventing me from putting it down!
It was also so funny, I actually laughed at loud at times! The side characters (Deacon in particular is brilliant), the tension and the yearning was amazing.
I really felt like every line was deliberate so I was trying to take a mental note and question everything, but there is the perfect amount of unanswered questions for book 2.
Five stars, no notes, more please! X
I absolutely loved this book, it had everything I personally love in a fantasy romance. High stakes, stabby FMC, brooding MMC, who did this to you, a war academy etc. I stayed awake well into the night to finish this as I couldn’t wait for the next part, there was always something preventing me from putting it down!
It was also so funny, I actually laughed at loud at times! The side characters (Deacon in particular is brilliant), the tension and the yearning was amazing.
I really felt like every line was deliberate so I was trying to take a mental note and question everything, but there is the perfect amount of unanswered questions for book 2.
Five stars, no notes, more please! X
January 19, 2026
What a ride this book took me on! I am breathless at the ending. I cannot wait to see where this story goes.
March 9, 2026
Well I didn’t see that ending coming?! Like at all…
April 28, 2026
3,75 ⭐️ Stundtals lite småseg, särskilt i mitten men slutet vägde helt klart upp! Och slutet… längtar tills nästa bok!
August 18, 2025
This book is 🔥🔥🔥🔥Fourth Wing fans unite, ACOTAR fans unite, Quicksilver fans unite, etc etc, because this book can stand alongside the greats!!!! What a phenomenal debut. Read it. Enough said 🙌
August 12, 2025
An absolute must read for anyone who enjoyed fourth wing!!
I was hooked straight from the get go. A tale of true friendship, twists and turns at every corner, no stale moments and TENSION!!!! So excited for book 2!! 5 stars all day long! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fav quote
“I just wanted two quiet hours to read about men longing and yearning for overly dramatic women. Is that really too much to ask?”
Same sister. Same.
I was hooked straight from the get go. A tale of true friendship, twists and turns at every corner, no stale moments and TENSION!!!! So excited for book 2!! 5 stars all day long! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fav quote
“I just wanted two quiet hours to read about men longing and yearning for overly dramatic women. Is that really too much to ask?”
Same sister. Same.
August 13, 2025
MUST READ!
This book had me hooked from beginning to end. The characters of this book are everything. The FMC is strong, competitive, and hiding many secrets. The banter between her and the other characters will make you love this book even more. Between trying to train for war, finding love, keeping secrets, learning to trust others and trying to keep herself and her friends alive you’ll never believe where this journey leads her in the end of the book.
@a.f.omeara
This book had me hooked from beginning to end. The characters of this book are everything. The FMC is strong, competitive, and hiding many secrets. The banter between her and the other characters will make you love this book even more. Between trying to train for war, finding love, keeping secrets, learning to trust others and trying to keep herself and her friends alive you’ll never believe where this journey leads her in the end of the book.
@a.f.omeara
March 19, 2026
NOBODY TALK TO ME FOR 5 BUSINESS DAYS, I’M PROCESSING THIS ENDING 😭
I don’t think I was bored for a single page of this book! It’s fast paced, easy to follow, gripping from page one. Strong Fourth Wing vibes (minus the dragons 😏).
The FMC isn’t your typical fragile and breakable Romantasy damsel in distress… oh no, Elina is a soldier and she can kick ass! If you loved Cealena from TOG you will Love Elina 🖤 she is smart, strong and cunning, she is fierce and.. loves to eat good food!
“Tell me, Red… did he ever make you feel as out of control as I do?”
The MMC, Stone will quickly become your new book boyfriend with his bad mouth and the YEARNING.
“Imagine being gifted stars,” I whisper, dreamy and faraway. “I’ll pull the moon out of the sky do you if you ask me to.”
The banter was bantering, the slow burn was deliciously slow, I was giggling and kicking my feet, the obsession is real! The found family is EVERYTHING. Deacon being the comedy relief everyone needs, every single side character is memorable and I just love them all.
I thought I predicted the ending but oh dear, how wrong was I…!
The only thing that made me give it 4⭐️ is the use of modern terms throughout the book. Things like “knickers”, “carbs”, “caffeine”, “pasta”, “clinically insane” were just few that I can think of and made me roll my eyes slightly as the story wasn’t set in modern world.
Overall it’s a fantastic debut and I’m obsessed, absolutely can’t wait for book 2, it’s going to be a WILD RIDE!
I don’t think I was bored for a single page of this book! It’s fast paced, easy to follow, gripping from page one. Strong Fourth Wing vibes (minus the dragons 😏).
The FMC isn’t your typical fragile and breakable Romantasy damsel in distress… oh no, Elina is a soldier and she can kick ass! If you loved Cealena from TOG you will Love Elina 🖤 she is smart, strong and cunning, she is fierce and.. loves to eat good food!
“Tell me, Red… did he ever make you feel as out of control as I do?”
The MMC, Stone will quickly become your new book boyfriend with his bad mouth and the YEARNING.
“Imagine being gifted stars,” I whisper, dreamy and faraway. “I’ll pull the moon out of the sky do you if you ask me to.”
The banter was bantering, the slow burn was deliciously slow, I was giggling and kicking my feet, the obsession is real! The found family is EVERYTHING. Deacon being the comedy relief everyone needs, every single side character is memorable and I just love them all.
I thought I predicted the ending but oh dear, how wrong was I…!
The only thing that made me give it 4⭐️ is the use of modern terms throughout the book. Things like “knickers”, “carbs”, “caffeine”, “pasta”, “clinically insane” were just few that I can think of and made me roll my eyes slightly as the story wasn’t set in modern world.
Overall it’s a fantastic debut and I’m obsessed, absolutely can’t wait for book 2, it’s going to be a WILD RIDE!
August 13, 2025
Absolutely loved Elina!!!! A badass FMC who doesn’t take shit from no one. I personally love enemies to lovers and this was perfect. Stone is my next book boyfriend 😆
This is a perfect mix of Fourth Wings and Hunger Games. With great twists that shook me and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out.!
This is a perfect mix of Fourth Wings and Hunger Games. With great twists that shook me and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out.!
August 13, 2025
Absolutely love this story and need more!!!! WOW! What an amazing read! The characters! Action! Spic! Absolute writing perfection! This is why I read indie author books! One of my favorites this year!!!! I can’t recommend this book enough!
August 12, 2025
This book was amazing! It’s fourth wing meets the hunger games. It follows Elina on her journey in the kings army. Plot twist galore - I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait for book 2!
February 28, 2026
This is such an amazing debut novel! I was hooked from the start! The world is so exciting and easy to follow.
I am not even kidding when I say this is PHENOMENAL! In my mind it is as good of a romantacy as fourth wing, and ACOTAR.
The second you meet Stone our MMC. His cockiness! and Elina is our deadly FMC!! Did I mention she’s a redhead. there’s just something about a fiery redhead that I LOVE!! Also, she’s is equally as cocky and I AM HERE FOR IT!
Their kingdom Aladrian is at war with the neighboring kingdom Dunmere. Dunmere has a necromancer who has created the Malus (reanimated skeletons).
Elina and Stone are students in this war academy learning how to fight in the war and defeat the Malus. Elina and Stone are both the top of their class so they are each others competition.
But Elina isn’t just any regular army student she’s been secretly going around the kingdom as an assassin named The Fox for years. She’s full of secrets!
Stone is a cocky, beautiful man who also has his own secrets!
I am not even kidding when I say this is PHENOMENAL! In my mind it is as good of a romantacy as fourth wing, and ACOTAR.
The second you meet Stone our MMC. His cockiness! and Elina is our deadly FMC!! Did I mention she’s a redhead. there’s just something about a fiery redhead that I LOVE!! Also, she’s is equally as cocky and I AM HERE FOR IT!
Their kingdom Aladrian is at war with the neighboring kingdom Dunmere. Dunmere has a necromancer who has created the Malus (reanimated skeletons).
Elina and Stone are students in this war academy learning how to fight in the war and defeat the Malus. Elina and Stone are both the top of their class so they are each others competition.
But Elina isn’t just any regular army student she’s been secretly going around the kingdom as an assassin named The Fox for years. She’s full of secrets!
Stone is a cocky, beautiful man who also has his own secrets!
January 30, 2026
Ohhhhh, the twists🤯😩
Very good world building, not too info dumpy - a very easy to read Romantasy!
And a strong introduction to Aladria.
Elina is a strong, intelligent and mysterious, “a lone fox” one could say.
The side characters are also very strong and well thought out. Elina has a really good set of friends around her. Loyal. Fierce. Funny!
Stone’s presence really picks up later in the book. But it’s worth the wait. He’s mysterious, but caring, a tad possessive, and nosey. I’m still wondering what he’s up to 🧐
Rivals to lovers
War academy
Found family
Jealousy
Slow burn
Twists (!!!)
Cliffhanger
5 out of 5 (nearly held off the .5 because I’m greedy, and would have liked Stone and Elina to interact more, earlier on.)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Very good world building, not too info dumpy - a very easy to read Romantasy!
And a strong introduction to Aladria.
Elina is a strong, intelligent and mysterious, “a lone fox” one could say.
The side characters are also very strong and well thought out. Elina has a really good set of friends around her. Loyal. Fierce. Funny!
Stone’s presence really picks up later in the book. But it’s worth the wait. He’s mysterious, but caring, a tad possessive, and nosey. I’m still wondering what he’s up to 🧐
Rivals to lovers
War academy
Found family
Jealousy
Slow burn
Twists (!!!)
Cliffhanger
5 out of 5 (nearly held off the .5 because I’m greedy, and would have liked Stone and Elina to interact more, earlier on.)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 1, 2026
This is fast-paced, action-packed, beautifully written slow burn with relatable characters, great side characters, solid academia vibes, and really strong world-building—and I was never bored for a second.
March 9, 2026
4.75⭐️ rounded up 👌🏼
Absolutely bloody fantastic. I had a fab time reading this, I loved the characters, loved the world, the magic, the training, the slow (ish) burn with just the hands brushing, or lingering looks for a good 60% of the book.
This books ending - it was giving Metal Slinger - but actually good. A big twist I didn't see coming AT ALL... but made actual sense.
I hope the author reads this and realises what a fantastic time I had for the hours spent reading her words because she needs to give herself a big pat on the back (and then get back to writing more because I need to read more by her!!!)
It's rare that a story matches how beautiful the special edition that I have is - but The Sol Crown by Nova Flame is absolutely stunning and I'm going to enjoy going on and on about this on my booktok because it deserves to catch the hype train!
So what elements did I love:
🌸 The badass AND likeable FMC
🌸 The fact her two best friends are male and there is never any issue with that. Pure platonic friendship and care
🌸The high stakes missions
🌸The top tier slow burn, lots of will they won't they, finger glides, flushing, long stares, some jealousy, stubbornness, yearning and some not being entirely honest with each other.
🌸 The found family with her squad of both genders. Everyone loves Deacon (he's a player, fit and funny) but I love Sam and how he's quietly always there for her.
🌸 Lots of little reveals throughout the book
🌸The double twist at the end which I had to go back and read again because it was so unexpected and soooo good!!!!
What didn't I love?
🌸 Just that book 2 isn't out yet! 🤣
Why is this book so slept on? Why aren't people blowing this up??!! It has similarities to Fourth Wing, Silver Elite, there are gifted people, Malus (think Venin but from The Walking Dead 🤣) and the enemy's army who collects and controls them all.
I absolutely love that this book has left so much open to explore in further books in the series.
I buddy read this with my friend Georgia and I fell a bit behind with a migraine... she finished first and kept asking me to tell her when I was done as she needed to talk about it - and even me being pre-warned and SUSPICIoUS from 85% I STILL didn't see the ending coming. That's clever plotting, planning and writing. BRAVO 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
If you liked The Silversmith, Metal Slinger, Fourth Wing, Direbound, Shield of Sparrows... and you liked the military aspect and tough FMC from KM Moronovas My blade, your back...
You're going to LOVE this.
And when you do... write a review because this a DEBUT 🤯🤯
Also the MMC 🧑🍳💋
Absolutely bloody fantastic. I had a fab time reading this, I loved the characters, loved the world, the magic, the training, the slow (ish) burn with just the hands brushing, or lingering looks for a good 60% of the book.
This books ending - it was giving Metal Slinger - but actually good. A big twist I didn't see coming AT ALL... but made actual sense.
I hope the author reads this and realises what a fantastic time I had for the hours spent reading her words because she needs to give herself a big pat on the back (and then get back to writing more because I need to read more by her!!!)
It's rare that a story matches how beautiful the special edition that I have is - but The Sol Crown by Nova Flame is absolutely stunning and I'm going to enjoy going on and on about this on my booktok because it deserves to catch the hype train!
So what elements did I love:
🌸 The badass AND likeable FMC
🌸 The fact her two best friends are male and there is never any issue with that. Pure platonic friendship and care
🌸The high stakes missions
🌸The top tier slow burn, lots of will they won't they, finger glides, flushing, long stares, some jealousy, stubbornness, yearning and some not being entirely honest with each other.
🌸 The found family with her squad of both genders. Everyone loves Deacon (he's a player, fit and funny) but I love Sam and how he's quietly always there for her.
🌸 Lots of little reveals throughout the book
🌸The double twist at the end which I had to go back and read again because it was so unexpected and soooo good!!!!
What didn't I love?
🌸 Just that book 2 isn't out yet! 🤣
Why is this book so slept on? Why aren't people blowing this up??!! It has similarities to Fourth Wing, Silver Elite, there are gifted people, Malus (think Venin but from The Walking Dead 🤣) and the enemy's army who collects and controls them all.
I absolutely love that this book has left so much open to explore in further books in the series.
I buddy read this with my friend Georgia and I fell a bit behind with a migraine... she finished first and kept asking me to tell her when I was done as she needed to talk about it - and even me being pre-warned and SUSPICIoUS from 85% I STILL didn't see the ending coming. That's clever plotting, planning and writing. BRAVO 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
If you liked The Silversmith, Metal Slinger, Fourth Wing, Direbound, Shield of Sparrows... and you liked the military aspect and tough FMC from KM Moronovas My blade, your back...
You're going to LOVE this.
And when you do... write a review because this a DEBUT 🤯🤯
Also the MMC 🧑🍳💋
August 20, 2025
🌞 4.5 stars ★★★★
“A deliciously vivid epic that stole my heart and fed it pasta.”
The Sol Crown by A.F. O’Meara is the kind of debut that quietly walks up behind you, tugs your sleeve with a slow burn romance, then hits you over the head with an emotional sledgehammer… and somehow you’re thanking it afterward.
From the first few chapters, I was hooked—not necessarily by the pace (which starts off measured) but by the characters. The FMC and MMC were so richly written that I could hear their voices and see their expressions like I was watching a movie unfold in my head. Their chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The slow(ish) burn romance, and their beautifully fated bond made me kick my feet like I was 17 again and hadn’t yet been emotionally destroyed by fictional men.
O’Hara’s writing style is fun, immersive, and laced with vivid imagery. There’s a lyrical quality to it, with just the right amount of banter and emotional gut punches. And the character voices? So distinct. Even side characters felt fully formed, and their developing camaraderie gave the story a surprising warmth amid the darker themes.
Speaking of themes: the interplay of light versus dark—both literal and metaphorical—is handled with nuance. The story doesn't shy away from pain, loss, or hard choices, but it also champions love, loyalty, and hope in a way that felt earned rather than idealistic.
Once the plot hits its stride (about a third of the way in), it runs. Expect action, tension, and high-stakes twists, all wrapped in a world that feels as real as it is magical. It’s got everything I want in an epic fantasy romance: deep lore, relatable emotional stakes, swoon-worthy tension, and just enough humor to keep the darkness from swallowing you whole.
I only rate it 4.5 stars instead of 5 due to the initial pacing of the book. Other than that, this book was a masterpiece... especially the absolutely shocking cliffhanger, which left me absolutely fiending for the second book!
Recommended for:
Fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros
Lovers of fated romance and slow-burn tension
Anyone who craves an epic battle between good and evil
Fantasy readers who appreciate stunning prose and character-driven plots
And yes, those who believe pasta + library dates = peak romance
I laughed, I gasped, I bookmarked too many quotes, and I will 100% be reading whatever A.F. O’Meara writes next. Highly recommend.
“A deliciously vivid epic that stole my heart and fed it pasta.”
The Sol Crown by A.F. O’Meara is the kind of debut that quietly walks up behind you, tugs your sleeve with a slow burn romance, then hits you over the head with an emotional sledgehammer… and somehow you’re thanking it afterward.
From the first few chapters, I was hooked—not necessarily by the pace (which starts off measured) but by the characters. The FMC and MMC were so richly written that I could hear their voices and see their expressions like I was watching a movie unfold in my head. Their chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The slow(ish) burn romance, and their beautifully fated bond made me kick my feet like I was 17 again and hadn’t yet been emotionally destroyed by fictional men.
O’Hara’s writing style is fun, immersive, and laced with vivid imagery. There’s a lyrical quality to it, with just the right amount of banter and emotional gut punches. And the character voices? So distinct. Even side characters felt fully formed, and their developing camaraderie gave the story a surprising warmth amid the darker themes.
Speaking of themes: the interplay of light versus dark—both literal and metaphorical—is handled with nuance. The story doesn't shy away from pain, loss, or hard choices, but it also champions love, loyalty, and hope in a way that felt earned rather than idealistic.
Once the plot hits its stride (about a third of the way in), it runs. Expect action, tension, and high-stakes twists, all wrapped in a world that feels as real as it is magical. It’s got everything I want in an epic fantasy romance: deep lore, relatable emotional stakes, swoon-worthy tension, and just enough humor to keep the darkness from swallowing you whole.
I only rate it 4.5 stars instead of 5 due to the initial pacing of the book. Other than that, this book was a masterpiece... especially the absolutely shocking cliffhanger, which left me absolutely fiending for the second book!
Recommended for:
Fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros
Lovers of fated romance and slow-burn tension
Anyone who craves an epic battle between good and evil
Fantasy readers who appreciate stunning prose and character-driven plots
And yes, those who believe pasta + library dates = peak romance
I laughed, I gasped, I bookmarked too many quotes, and I will 100% be reading whatever A.F. O’Meara writes next. Highly recommend.
April 11, 2026
Proper slow burn and an ending that will leave you wanting more
I went into this thinking it was going to land comfortably at a four star. I was really enjoying it the whole way through, properly invested, but it just felt like it was sitting in that “really good but not quite all time favourite” space.
What really carried it for me even before the ending was the characters. Elina is exactly the kind of FMC I love. She’s strong and capable, but not in a way that makes her feel untouchable. She has real weaknesses and moments of vulnerability, which just made her feel like a fully rounded person rather than an idea of one. I was completely on her side the entire time.
Her friendship with Deacon was another highlight. He brings so much light into the story and balances things out in a way that feels really natural. Their dynamic had such a genuine, almost brotherly warmth to it, which I loved.
And then there’s Stone. He’s such an interesting character, quite complex, and I really enjoyed slowly figuring him out. The dynamic between him and Elina worked so well for me, especially because of the slow burn. Nothing is rushed, the tension builds properly, and when things finally start to shift later on, it actually feels earned. The fact they both have their own secrets just adds to that.
The writing itself really surprised me as well. There’s a lot of heart in it. You can feel the emotional weight running through everything, from found family to love and loss. It covers so much without ever feeling like it’s doing too much.
And then the ending happened.
I’m talking last page, completely blindsided, actually said “what?” out loud kind of ending. I did not see it coming at all, which almost never happens to me, so when it does, it really counts. It didn’t just surprise me, it genuinely elevated everything that came before it.
That final twist and the cliffhanger completely changed my rating. It took a book I really liked and turned it into one I won’t stop thinking about.
If you love strong character work, slow burn tension, and an ending that hits you out of nowhere, this absolutely delivers.
I went into this thinking it was going to land comfortably at a four star. I was really enjoying it the whole way through, properly invested, but it just felt like it was sitting in that “really good but not quite all time favourite” space.
What really carried it for me even before the ending was the characters. Elina is exactly the kind of FMC I love. She’s strong and capable, but not in a way that makes her feel untouchable. She has real weaknesses and moments of vulnerability, which just made her feel like a fully rounded person rather than an idea of one. I was completely on her side the entire time.
Her friendship with Deacon was another highlight. He brings so much light into the story and balances things out in a way that feels really natural. Their dynamic had such a genuine, almost brotherly warmth to it, which I loved.
And then there’s Stone. He’s such an interesting character, quite complex, and I really enjoyed slowly figuring him out. The dynamic between him and Elina worked so well for me, especially because of the slow burn. Nothing is rushed, the tension builds properly, and when things finally start to shift later on, it actually feels earned. The fact they both have their own secrets just adds to that.
The writing itself really surprised me as well. There’s a lot of heart in it. You can feel the emotional weight running through everything, from found family to love and loss. It covers so much without ever feeling like it’s doing too much.
And then the ending happened.
I’m talking last page, completely blindsided, actually said “what?” out loud kind of ending. I did not see it coming at all, which almost never happens to me, so when it does, it really counts. It didn’t just surprise me, it genuinely elevated everything that came before it.
That final twist and the cliffhanger completely changed my rating. It took a book I really liked and turned it into one I won’t stop thinking about.
If you love strong character work, slow burn tension, and an ending that hits you out of nowhere, this absolutely delivers.
February 10, 2026
I really enjoyed The Sol Crown. It’s a fast-paced read that never feels shallow. The story is packed with emotion, personality, and action, and I found myself tearing through it in just a couple of nights, partly because it’s so immersive and partly because I genuinely couldn’t put it down. This did lead to some very late nights, but I regret nothing.
One of the most refreshing things about this book is that the characters are young adults who actually feel like young adults. They go out, they eat, they take day trips, they party, and their lives revolve around friends, food, and fun as much as fate and danger. The banter between the characters is brilliant, and I loved watching the friendships grow and deepen over the course of the story. The relationship between Elina and Deacon was a particular highlight for me. I absolutely adored them together, and if anything happens to that man, there will be protests.
Emotionally, this book put me through it. I felt joy, sadness, anxiety, and that giddy edge-of-your-seat feeling where your heart starts racing without you quite noticing. The contrast between light and dark is handled beautifully. In the lighter scenes, when the characters are together and happy, you can really feel the warmth and bond between them. In the darker moments, the despair and loss hit hard, and the atmosphere becomes heavy in a way that fully pulls you into the characters’ experience.
I thought I had a good idea of where the story was heading and what the twists would be, but I was very wrong. The final page earned an audible “WHAT?!” and left me with so many unanswered questions. I’m especially intrigued by Stone and Trent and their intentions, and I’m desperate to learn more about their history. If you enjoy fantasy with sharp twists, emotional depth, and characters that genuinely get under your skin, this book is well worth picking up. I’m very much looking forward to the second instalment.
One of the most refreshing things about this book is that the characters are young adults who actually feel like young adults. They go out, they eat, they take day trips, they party, and their lives revolve around friends, food, and fun as much as fate and danger. The banter between the characters is brilliant, and I loved watching the friendships grow and deepen over the course of the story. The relationship between Elina and Deacon was a particular highlight for me. I absolutely adored them together, and if anything happens to that man, there will be protests.
Emotionally, this book put me through it. I felt joy, sadness, anxiety, and that giddy edge-of-your-seat feeling where your heart starts racing without you quite noticing. The contrast between light and dark is handled beautifully. In the lighter scenes, when the characters are together and happy, you can really feel the warmth and bond between them. In the darker moments, the despair and loss hit hard, and the atmosphere becomes heavy in a way that fully pulls you into the characters’ experience.
I thought I had a good idea of where the story was heading and what the twists would be, but I was very wrong. The final page earned an audible “WHAT?!” and left me with so many unanswered questions. I’m especially intrigued by Stone and Trent and their intentions, and I’m desperate to learn more about their history. If you enjoy fantasy with sharp twists, emotional depth, and characters that genuinely get under your skin, this book is well worth picking up. I’m very much looking forward to the second instalment.
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