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The Sun King and His Knight #2
The Sun King's Noon
Book Two of an epic MM romantasy quartet featuring an asexual king, his yearning knight and the people they must protect.
King Richard of Ardenia knows fear well. The veil is his kingdom's only defence against Gloamvarn—a neighbouring realm of monsters—and it is crumbling.
In a bid to gather allies for the coming war, Richard throws open his court for a grand Summer Ball. As he navigates political wiles and new threats, it becomes hard to hold steady. Harder still, when bitter arguments erupt between him and his devoted knight.
Meanwhile, a long-buried secret threatens to shatter his family and court, and through it all, the Gloam King waits with a smile.
There’s no stopping the veil’s fall, Galdran whispers.
Invasion is inevitable.
And you, and all of yours, will be mine.
King Richard of Ardenia knows fear well. The veil is his kingdom's only defence against Gloamvarn—a neighbouring realm of monsters—and it is crumbling.
In a bid to gather allies for the coming war, Richard throws open his court for a grand Summer Ball. As he navigates political wiles and new threats, it becomes hard to hold steady. Harder still, when bitter arguments erupt between him and his devoted knight.
Meanwhile, a long-buried secret threatens to shatter his family and court, and through it all, the Gloam King waits with a smile.
There’s no stopping the veil’s fall, Galdran whispers.
Invasion is inevitable.
And you, and all of yours, will be mine.
540 pages, Hardcover
Published June 29, 2026
About the author
Briar Niran
4 books67 followersBriar Niran writes fantasy romance featuring queerness, strong sibling bonds and friendship. They are passionate about asexuality and queernormative worlds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
July 17, 2026
This book had the audacity to make me love a man named Richard.
The Sun King’s Dawn set the tone so that this book could shine. Makes sense, after all. The sun at noon is brighter than at dawn 😉
And I’m officially a Briar Niran fan now. I stayed up super late reading this book, while also struggling because I didn’t want it to end.
Richard has joined the ranks of my favorite main characters in fantasy books. Watching him finally realize he’s in love while trying to convince himself he simply had a medical condition was ✨pure gold✨ and the whole situationship with Kaelen is so incredibly tender and hilarious at the same time.
Kaelen remains the perfect “looks like he could kill you, is a cinnamon roll”… except he absolutely will kill you if necessary.
And Briar keeps introducing side characters that I immediately want to adopt, marry or f*ck, honestly, how they do that, I’ll never know. Flint completely broke my heart, Vikram is a delight, Agnes is iconic, and I would happily read full length books about any of them.
Most sequels expand the world. This one expanded my heart. Add in the humor, the beautiful friendships, the devotion between these characters, not to mention PLOT for days, and I’ll be impatiently waiting for book 3.
That cliffhanger, though… IT WAS EVIL
**Thank you, Briar Niran, for trusting me with an early copy. All opinions are my own.
______________
Pre-read
The oblivious ace king and his besotted knight are back!!
I love them so much ♥️
The Sun King’s Dawn set the tone so that this book could shine. Makes sense, after all. The sun at noon is brighter than at dawn 😉
And I’m officially a Briar Niran fan now. I stayed up super late reading this book, while also struggling because I didn’t want it to end.
Richard has joined the ranks of my favorite main characters in fantasy books. Watching him finally realize he’s in love while trying to convince himself he simply had a medical condition was ✨pure gold✨ and the whole situationship with Kaelen is so incredibly tender and hilarious at the same time.
Kaelen remains the perfect “looks like he could kill you, is a cinnamon roll”… except he absolutely will kill you if necessary.
And Briar keeps introducing side characters that I immediately want to adopt, marry or f*ck, honestly, how they do that, I’ll never know. Flint completely broke my heart, Vikram is a delight, Agnes is iconic, and I would happily read full length books about any of them.
Most sequels expand the world. This one expanded my heart. Add in the humor, the beautiful friendships, the devotion between these characters, not to mention PLOT for days, and I’ll be impatiently waiting for book 3.
That cliffhanger, though… IT WAS EVIL
**Thank you, Briar Niran, for trusting me with an early copy. All opinions are my own.
______________
Pre-read
The oblivious ace king and his besotted knight are back!!
I love them so much ♥️
August 4, 2026
Coming out from the depths of my depressive episode to write this review because the book is out tomorrow.
Wow what an experience! Right off the bat,I loved how much more detailed and slower the world building in this book was. It was a welcome pace change from how fast and information packed the first one was and it's focus on the characters and Richard's growing affection for Kaelen made this an even more intriguing read.
Speaking of Kaelen and Richard,EEEEEEEKEKJDBDBDBSBDBDH!!!!!! So so cute. I think you can tell how much love and care Niran's put into writing their story.
Again I'm coming from a perspective of someone who mostly reads litfic so I'll always be geeked for some quarters characterization and character exploration.
All in all,this was quite fun and a really good follow up to the first book in the series. I can't wait for the next one. Thank you to the author for the arc, all thoughts are mine and honest.
~~~~~~~~~~~
I loved the first book so much, even as a person who rarely enjoys fantasy books, and I immediately began stalking the author's page for updates on book two. He was so kind to send me the arc and ugh I'm starting immediately
Wow what an experience! Right off the bat,I loved how much more detailed and slower the world building in this book was. It was a welcome pace change from how fast and information packed the first one was and it's focus on the characters and Richard's growing affection for Kaelen made this an even more intriguing read.
Speaking of Kaelen and Richard,EEEEEEEKEKJDBDBDBSBDBDH!!!!!! So so cute. I think you can tell how much love and care Niran's put into writing their story.
Again I'm coming from a perspective of someone who mostly reads litfic so I'll always be geeked for some quarters characterization and character exploration.
All in all,this was quite fun and a really good follow up to the first book in the series. I can't wait for the next one. Thank you to the author for the arc, all thoughts are mine and honest.
~~~~~~~~~~~
I loved the first book so much, even as a person who rarely enjoys fantasy books, and I immediately began stalking the author's page for updates on book two. He was so kind to send me the arc and ugh I'm starting immediately
August 1, 2026
One novella and two books deep into this series and I still can’t understand why Richard being asexual is such a big deal. I was mentally yelling at everybody in his book to just get over it! How is it possible that he’s the only one in this world that’s like that? Honestly. It gets tiring after a while. But that’s genuinely the only problem I have with this book. Or, books.
It’s such a layered story, the romance is just so sweet too, though I have my issues with it as well.
There’s one thing I don’t really know how to feel about in said romance. Which is the way Kaelen behaves around Richard, or the way he views him I guess. On one hand, he’s his king, he wants to protect him, and that’s sweet, he’s sworn to him. On the other hand, he’s a grown man, I think he can protect himself. Like, I think we’re underestimating Richard’s abilities here. It’s normal, conventional even, for a knight to protect his king, but he’s not a daffodil. He’s not helpless. I think he can deal with it, you know? But please don’t assume I don’t like them together. Because I do, oh so much. That’s really just the one negative thing that stood out to me. And it’s not even negative if you think about it. Loving someone so much to always want to protect them? That speaks for itself.
I especially love the character of Richard, by himself and with Kaelen. Everything works against him, he always has a new problem budding, the man is truly and purely cursed in the luck department. I really loved the way he started to understand he actually had feelings for Kaelen, and that loving and bedding someone are two different things. And I trust the author enough to know that Richard won’t sacrifice anything that’s makes him himself for a possible relationship. And I’m sure it will be handled correctly, I think I know that much. And of course, we know Kaelen is and has been head over heels for Richard his entire life, so I won’t even mention it.
That ending. How are we, as readers, supposed to go on? Pretend we never read the book is probably the only good answer because what was that ending! Currently yelling at the author. All we can do now is wait. Patiently.
As with the other books in this series, I would a hundred percent recommend. This series is gold. It’s probably on the same level as book one, not quite a five star, but we’re getting there. Beautiful book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s such a layered story, the romance is just so sweet too, though I have my issues with it as well.
There’s one thing I don’t really know how to feel about in said romance. Which is the way Kaelen behaves around Richard, or the way he views him I guess. On one hand, he’s his king, he wants to protect him, and that’s sweet, he’s sworn to him. On the other hand, he’s a grown man, I think he can protect himself. Like, I think we’re underestimating Richard’s abilities here. It’s normal, conventional even, for a knight to protect his king, but he’s not a daffodil. He’s not helpless. I think he can deal with it, you know? But please don’t assume I don’t like them together. Because I do, oh so much. That’s really just the one negative thing that stood out to me. And it’s not even negative if you think about it. Loving someone so much to always want to protect them? That speaks for itself.
I especially love the character of Richard, by himself and with Kaelen. Everything works against him, he always has a new problem budding, the man is truly and purely cursed in the luck department. I really loved the way he started to understand he actually had feelings for Kaelen, and that loving and bedding someone are two different things. And I trust the author enough to know that Richard won’t sacrifice anything that’s makes him himself for a possible relationship. And I’m sure it will be handled correctly, I think I know that much. And of course, we know Kaelen is and has been head over heels for Richard his entire life, so I won’t even mention it.
That ending. How are we, as readers, supposed to go on? Pretend we never read the book is probably the only good answer because what was that ending! Currently yelling at the author. All we can do now is wait. Patiently.
As with the other books in this series, I would a hundred percent recommend. This series is gold. It’s probably on the same level as book one, not quite a five star, but we’re getting there. Beautiful book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2026
Even better than book 1. The plot continues to be engaging and fast paced and it took me by surprise sometimes, which I really enjoyed. And we get more character depth and development, not only from Richard and Kaelen but also some side characters I wasn't expecting to see again. I love blushing Kaelen and the ace rep but thought Richard's obliviousness was sometimes a bit too much for a 35 year old - but still found them adorable together and enjoyed the slow development of their relationship.
I stayed up way too late to finish this and then to end with such a cliffhanger ... can't wait for book 3 !
I stayed up way too late to finish this and then to end with such a cliffhanger ... can't wait for book 3 !
July 5, 2026
Since I finished my arc of The Sun Kings Noon, I have been trying to figure out how I would more eloquently articulate my review, which is, "this book is perfect. You must read it," while staying spoiler-free.
The World and its Inhabitants
First, can we talk about what an incredible world Briar Niran has created? Every Kingdom feels unique, and while you can see where she pulled inspiration from, things are blended in unique and thoughtful ways. While reading, I kept thinking, she must have giant reference binders because of the immense amount of detail and thought that went into each culture. The information is beautifully woven through the prose, really bringing this world to life.
And I loved that, similar to the first book, every time we met a new character, I was like, "oooh, I want to read a book about this person!" Except maybe King Marius, he can stay a character in other people's stories.
We got more Lady Agnes! I love her, and I have decided that someday I hope to be described as "eccentric to the point of liability."
I love the queer normative world. One, because it's cool AF to imagine a world where people don't make assumptions about gender and identity and are incredibly accepting. But two, I think it is an important contrast to show how even the most accepting people can/do struggle with asexuality.
Family
Family again plays a crucial role in the novel, and we see how Richard's relationships with his siblings are challenged and how they are evolving. I was especially struck by his conversations with Briony as she struggles with puberty.
In many ways, Richard is forced to act as his siblings' parent, and you can see how this has shaped not only their interactions but the burdens Richard carries.
I also love the way chosen family is shown to be incredibly important. Our favorite bandit, Flint, is back, and we learn more about his story with Lyell and Edith. We see this in how the circus troupe (yes, there is a circus!) takes care of its own and welcomes new folks.
But we also see this in the castle inhabitants. I especially love how folks like Selwyn continuously show Richard how much they love him, not by praising the king, but with the gentle prodding of a loving mom.
Richard, a Complex Character
I spent a good portion of this book yelling, "Oh, Richard. No!" and hiding my face in my hands.
Richard is categorically a good man. He cares for his people, strives to be a good leader, loves his family, and wants to do what is right. However, we also see that he can be a stubborn jackass who acts on what he thinks is right or best for people, without really considering people's feelings. That doesn't necessarily make his choices wrong; it just adds to the distance he sometimes creates with others.
I love that we had moments of light-hearted Richard. The Richard who was obsessed with stories of dryads, druids, and dwarfs as a kid and imagined that different lands and different people could share a table and live in harmony—the Richard who presses for answers and can't help but ask the questions in his head.
The Love Story
These two fall under idiots-to-lovers (said with fond exasperation). Watching both Richard and Kaelen make mistakes with each other was hard. But hard because when they mess up, it feels real (natural? human?). While they both really see each other, sometimes it is hard not to bring up baggage from the past or let your feelings of jealousy cloud your judgment.
It was lovely to see the yearning on both sides. Seeing Richard totally crushing, getting jealous, and falling in love was fun, especially because he was allowed to do it at his own pace.
It was also wonderful to see the difference in how Richard's friends (old and new) talked with him about asexuality. With Seola, Orric, and Flint, there is an understanding and acceptance that this is simply who Richard is. That they are willing to share parts of themselves with Richard, and remind him that not every love story is the same, and that relationships change over seasons.
You Need to Read This
I feel like I have barely scratched the surface of why I loved this book, but if I tell you everything about my 45 notes and 320 highlights, I would be reading off the entire book.
But seriously, The Sun Kings Noon is perfect. You must read it.
---
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
The World and its Inhabitants
First, can we talk about what an incredible world Briar Niran has created? Every Kingdom feels unique, and while you can see where she pulled inspiration from, things are blended in unique and thoughtful ways. While reading, I kept thinking, she must have giant reference binders because of the immense amount of detail and thought that went into each culture. The information is beautifully woven through the prose, really bringing this world to life.
And I loved that, similar to the first book, every time we met a new character, I was like, "oooh, I want to read a book about this person!" Except maybe King Marius, he can stay a character in other people's stories.
We got more Lady Agnes! I love her, and I have decided that someday I hope to be described as "eccentric to the point of liability."
I love the queer normative world. One, because it's cool AF to imagine a world where people don't make assumptions about gender and identity and are incredibly accepting. But two, I think it is an important contrast to show how even the most accepting people can/do struggle with asexuality.
Family
Family again plays a crucial role in the novel, and we see how Richard's relationships with his siblings are challenged and how they are evolving. I was especially struck by his conversations with Briony as she struggles with puberty.
"I do hate growing up, Brother. It's awfully unfair."
In many ways, Richard is forced to act as his siblings' parent, and you can see how this has shaped not only their interactions but the burdens Richard carries.
I also love the way chosen family is shown to be incredibly important. Our favorite bandit, Flint, is back, and we learn more about his story with Lyell and Edith. We see this in how the circus troupe (yes, there is a circus!) takes care of its own and welcomes new folks.
But we also see this in the castle inhabitants. I especially love how folks like Selwyn continuously show Richard how much they love him, not by praising the king, but with the gentle prodding of a loving mom.
"Your son, my lady"—Richard wiped his eye—"is really quite silly."
"Is that so?" Selwyn was smiling too, a knowing gleam in her eyes. "Strange. I'd say quite the same of his king."
Richard, a Complex Character
I spent a good portion of this book yelling, "Oh, Richard. No!" and hiding my face in my hands.
Richard is categorically a good man. He cares for his people, strives to be a good leader, loves his family, and wants to do what is right. However, we also see that he can be a stubborn jackass who acts on what he thinks is right or best for people, without really considering people's feelings. That doesn't necessarily make his choices wrong; it just adds to the distance he sometimes creates with others.
I love that we had moments of light-hearted Richard. The Richard who was obsessed with stories of dryads, druids, and dwarfs as a kid and imagined that different lands and different people could share a table and live in harmony—the Richard who presses for answers and can't help but ask the questions in his head.
"You are curious, Sun King," Orric said calmly. "And curiosity is a delightful thing.
The Love Story
These two fall under idiots-to-lovers (said with fond exasperation). Watching both Richard and Kaelen make mistakes with each other was hard. But hard because when they mess up, it feels real (natural? human?). While they both really see each other, sometimes it is hard not to bring up baggage from the past or let your feelings of jealousy cloud your judgment.
It was lovely to see the yearning on both sides. Seeing Richard totally crushing, getting jealous, and falling in love was fun, especially because he was allowed to do it at his own pace.
"I do not know," Richard said quietly. "I know only that I should like him to smile at me more. And perhaps—" He hesitated, baffled by the words that came to his tongue. "To smile at others less."
It was also wonderful to see the difference in how Richard's friends (old and new) talked with him about asexuality. With Seola, Orric, and Flint, there is an understanding and acceptance that this is simply who Richard is. That they are willing to share parts of themselves with Richard, and remind him that not every love story is the same, and that relationships change over seasons.
You Need to Read This
I feel like I have barely scratched the surface of why I loved this book, but if I tell you everything about my 45 notes and 320 highlights, I would be reading off the entire book.
But seriously, The Sun Kings Noon is perfect. You must read it.
---
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
July 4, 2026
eARC provided by the author (thank you, thank you, thank you!)
eeeeeee love love love. More of Richard is what I needed on this trying day.
Everything I said in my review of the previous book remains true. Dialogue? perfect. Characters? perfect. Fantasy with a lot of gay and a little horror? perfect.
Itching to get my hands on the next book...
eeeeeee love love love. More of Richard is what I needed on this trying day.
Everything I said in my review of the previous book remains true. Dialogue? perfect. Characters? perfect. Fantasy with a lot of gay and a little horror? perfect.
Itching to get my hands on the next book...
August 6, 2026
10 thousand stars
ahahaha
will try write a comprehensive review once i have brain
ahahaha
will try write a comprehensive review once i have brain
July 2, 2026
This series really has my heart. There is so much yearning and so many truly romantic moments which is something that is missing in fantasy romance a lot of the time.
As good as the slow burn romance is, there’s also a very strong plot and lovely characters. I just can’t say enough good things about this series, I highly recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this as an arc.
July 27, 2026
This advance review copy is courtesy of NetGalley.
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for this advance reader’s copy of Briar Niran’s The Sun King’s Noon in exchange for an honest review. My words are my own.
Before I expand on anything book related I would like to say, thank you Briar Niran for writing a sequel you can walk into and fall in love with without having read the first one. I will, of course, be (excitedly) backpedaling to book #1, but I think it is the mark of a truly great writer to create a book this comprehensive for a new audience member. I am more of a speculative fiction fan and sometimes get lost when too many worlds/tribes/species/categories of dwarves come into play. But this was a treasure. The main characters were relatable, their interactions were genuine, the balance of intersections with the human and extra-humans were perfect, and it was just enough intensity vs. measuredness to make clear that this was a very well crafted piece. Each component was purposeful and balanced; it is clear that Nirin put an immense amount of work into manifesting this masterpiece.
The Sun King’s Noon centers on the relationship between Richard, the Sun King, and his knight, Sir Kaelen. The reason Niran is so successful at kneading out this relationship is because Richard personifies the essence of confusion without misunderstanding his identity. That is not only a triumph for a writer tackling something as complex as asexuality, but also a critical literary template for all queer and non-queer readers alike. Richard is confused about why Kaelen gets upset when says Orric is handsome, he is “bewildered” when he gets enraged watching Kaelen get aroused by the Naradeshi dancer, he is flummoxed when he’s around people he thinks are attractive, he is even surprised that attraction isn’t universal, in the case of the druid Orric. Narin makes clear that Richard‘s confusion about his attraction to Kaelin comes from the same place that every human beings’ does: internal, subconscious narratives that prevent us from recognizing our true feelings for someone or registering when someone else has feelings for us. It is exciting and relieving to see a genuinely love-struck asexual character, whose relationship does not get transferred into something sexual. As Flint finally reifies for Richard, “the bedding was a thing we did because we could, but it was not a thing that made the love” (272).
One of the reasons the reader feels buoyed along through so much activity is that Niran has beautiful transitions in their writing. The author is able to move from the dissonance of a quick humorous transaction between two individual characters, to a sweeping, grander scene with the entire court, to an intimate conversation, without any unnecessary language; each scene is imbued with cleverness and charged with vitality. This is how Niran was able to make the landscape of the novel so massive yet so intimate. We are taken across multiple kingdoms while still held at the precipice of the relationship between two characters. The author literally manages to juggle a traveling circus of personalities while simultaneously focusing a spotlight on just two.
Niran’s ability to sculpt characters is something I have reverence for. I felt some form of esteem for all of them - even the contradictory and sharp-edged ones. Lady Seola is my new fictional wife, I would read an entire series on Flint alone, and I wanted to stand up and applaud when Richard finally deadpan cussed someone out. Lady Agnes has inspired me to grow into the type of old woman who constantly describes my impending death in innumerable ways - publicly. Even the less flamboyant characters showed flexibility and growth throughout the novel. Finding brilliantly written, memorable characters is one of the reasons I fell in love with books as a child and the cast of this book was a sweet reminder of why reading is so mesmerizing.
There wasn’t even an over abundance of vowels in every name - a trope that many a fantasy writer employs. Talented and classy.
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for this advance reader’s copy of Briar Niran’s The Sun King’s Noon in exchange for an honest review. My words are my own.
Before I expand on anything book related I would like to say, thank you Briar Niran for writing a sequel you can walk into and fall in love with without having read the first one. I will, of course, be (excitedly) backpedaling to book #1, but I think it is the mark of a truly great writer to create a book this comprehensive for a new audience member. I am more of a speculative fiction fan and sometimes get lost when too many worlds/tribes/species/categories of dwarves come into play. But this was a treasure. The main characters were relatable, their interactions were genuine, the balance of intersections with the human and extra-humans were perfect, and it was just enough intensity vs. measuredness to make clear that this was a very well crafted piece. Each component was purposeful and balanced; it is clear that Nirin put an immense amount of work into manifesting this masterpiece.
The Sun King’s Noon centers on the relationship between Richard, the Sun King, and his knight, Sir Kaelen. The reason Niran is so successful at kneading out this relationship is because Richard personifies the essence of confusion without misunderstanding his identity. That is not only a triumph for a writer tackling something as complex as asexuality, but also a critical literary template for all queer and non-queer readers alike. Richard is confused about why Kaelen gets upset when says Orric is handsome, he is “bewildered” when he gets enraged watching Kaelen get aroused by the Naradeshi dancer, he is flummoxed when he’s around people he thinks are attractive, he is even surprised that attraction isn’t universal, in the case of the druid Orric. Narin makes clear that Richard‘s confusion about his attraction to Kaelin comes from the same place that every human beings’ does: internal, subconscious narratives that prevent us from recognizing our true feelings for someone or registering when someone else has feelings for us. It is exciting and relieving to see a genuinely love-struck asexual character, whose relationship does not get transferred into something sexual. As Flint finally reifies for Richard, “the bedding was a thing we did because we could, but it was not a thing that made the love” (272).
One of the reasons the reader feels buoyed along through so much activity is that Niran has beautiful transitions in their writing. The author is able to move from the dissonance of a quick humorous transaction between two individual characters, to a sweeping, grander scene with the entire court, to an intimate conversation, without any unnecessary language; each scene is imbued with cleverness and charged with vitality. This is how Niran was able to make the landscape of the novel so massive yet so intimate. We are taken across multiple kingdoms while still held at the precipice of the relationship between two characters. The author literally manages to juggle a traveling circus of personalities while simultaneously focusing a spotlight on just two.
Niran’s ability to sculpt characters is something I have reverence for. I felt some form of esteem for all of them - even the contradictory and sharp-edged ones. Lady Seola is my new fictional wife, I would read an entire series on Flint alone, and I wanted to stand up and applaud when Richard finally deadpan cussed someone out. Lady Agnes has inspired me to grow into the type of old woman who constantly describes my impending death in innumerable ways - publicly. Even the less flamboyant characters showed flexibility and growth throughout the novel. Finding brilliantly written, memorable characters is one of the reasons I fell in love with books as a child and the cast of this book was a sweet reminder of why reading is so mesmerizing.
There wasn’t even an over abundance of vowels in every name - a trope that many a fantasy writer employs. Talented and classy.
July 4, 2026
With the threat of Gloamvarn looming over them, Richard sets out to seek allies in his fight to defend his kingdom. When that fails he must embark on a quest with Kaelen at his side to recover the hearts of the mythical first creatures in the hopes that they can save all he holds dear. Along the way he meets up with friends old and new, fighting new magics and old allies turned enemies while battling his growing feelings for Kaelen.
The stakes were certainly higher in book two. But what an absolutely incredible adventure that I just devoured! A ball, a forbidden love, family secrets and sibling fights, jealous kings and yearning knights, sirens and mermaids and dryads and shapechangers, tarot magic, the list goes on! There’s something for everyone. But what a treat to have an asexual main character done right!
I absolutely adore Richard as a main character: his devotion to his siblings as both parent and older brother, his childlike curiousity about magic, about knowledge, his willingness to throw himself into danger to protect not only his family but his entire kingdom, his bravery and cleverness and his heart—because even though he doesn’t experience sexual desire his love is boundless and unconditional, even as people treat him like there’s something wrong with him.
Sterotypical book boyfriends could learn a lot from Kaelen. He is sweet and true, never pushing beyond the boundaries Richard has set between them, compassionate and yearning while still being chivalrous and protective. His stammering and blabbering whenever Richard attempts to be nice to him was simply adorable. The revelations of the burdens he carries (no spoilers) just made me want to cry for him. I have a feeling he is going to face an impossible choice in book three and I am terrified for him.
Briony is perhaps the character I identify the most with. I think she was written perfectly, a blend of childlike wonder and confusion over her changing body. The revelations of of her secrets was just heartbreaking for one so young but you could absolutely see her maturity shining through her character arc. Her struggle with her feelings and her self image are things all little girls will recognize within themselves and I love hoe her siblings constantly reassured her of their love and support.
There are tons of other side characters I adore (Agnes, Flint, Sir Joffrey, Orric—who I hope we meet again) but honestly there’s a wide enough spread of interesting characters with their own subplots and pasts enough to please anyone.
I picked up the first book because I got an ad on Instagram telling me it was for fans of BBC’s Merlin. I can see the inspiration the show had on the story but it is completely its own amazing plot and world with wonderful new magic systems and its own history. I am going to be eagerly awaiting book three next year and the confrontation I know is coming!
The stakes were certainly higher in book two. But what an absolutely incredible adventure that I just devoured! A ball, a forbidden love, family secrets and sibling fights, jealous kings and yearning knights, sirens and mermaids and dryads and shapechangers, tarot magic, the list goes on! There’s something for everyone. But what a treat to have an asexual main character done right!
I absolutely adore Richard as a main character: his devotion to his siblings as both parent and older brother, his childlike curiousity about magic, about knowledge, his willingness to throw himself into danger to protect not only his family but his entire kingdom, his bravery and cleverness and his heart—because even though he doesn’t experience sexual desire his love is boundless and unconditional, even as people treat him like there’s something wrong with him.
Sterotypical book boyfriends could learn a lot from Kaelen. He is sweet and true, never pushing beyond the boundaries Richard has set between them, compassionate and yearning while still being chivalrous and protective. His stammering and blabbering whenever Richard attempts to be nice to him was simply adorable. The revelations of the burdens he carries (no spoilers) just made me want to cry for him. I have a feeling he is going to face an impossible choice in book three and I am terrified for him.
Briony is perhaps the character I identify the most with. I think she was written perfectly, a blend of childlike wonder and confusion over her changing body. The revelations of of her secrets was just heartbreaking for one so young but you could absolutely see her maturity shining through her character arc. Her struggle with her feelings and her self image are things all little girls will recognize within themselves and I love hoe her siblings constantly reassured her of their love and support.
There are tons of other side characters I adore (Agnes, Flint, Sir Joffrey, Orric—who I hope we meet again) but honestly there’s a wide enough spread of interesting characters with their own subplots and pasts enough to please anyone.
I picked up the first book because I got an ad on Instagram telling me it was for fans of BBC’s Merlin. I can see the inspiration the show had on the story but it is completely its own amazing plot and world with wonderful new magic systems and its own history. I am going to be eagerly awaiting book three next year and the confrontation I know is coming!
July 3, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Sun King's Noon is the excellent sequel to The Sun King's Dawn (HERE you can read my review). This second book in the quadrilogy doesn't hold back its punches, continuing the tale of asexual king Richard and his struggles both as monarch of a realm in peril and as a man who finds love for the first time and needs to navigate his feelings. As in the first book, his sex-repulsion features heavily and it's handled deftly, detailling the strong feelings of alienation and the first fluttering beats of a romance that he feels he can't have, duty-bound and unwilling to deny affection to his knight. This is done beautifully and delicately, and it's lovely to see such a nuanced exploration of achillean asexuality in a fantasy novel.
For his part, the knight Kaelen also has some maturing to do, and his journey is worth reading. This continues to be a series about strong relationships, both familial and friendship. Richard learns to open up a bit, to seek counsel more, to heed advice; but he's still strong-willed and used to load everything up on his shoulders, with mixed results. He's a flawed character, but they all are: flawed and incredibly human. The complex web of human relationships is further entangled by the introduction of many new characters as Richard reaches for allies against the threat to his kingdom.
The worldbuilding expands with new kingdoms and people, showing complex traditions and still drawing from our own folklore in a way that is fresh and interesting. The looming threat gives urgency to everything, but there are still some lulls of introspection, quiet moments that are very poignant. One particular moment in the second half of the book, a conversation between Richard and a thief, is especially beautiful and brought tears to my eyes.
The villain gets something of a backseat in this book, still appearing in all his menacing self, but not so overtly present as in the first book. This allows for a tighter focus, and for some really spectacular moments towards the end, a much-needed conversation, and a nail-biting finale.
The Sun King's Noon is a great sequel.
The Sun King's Noon is the excellent sequel to The Sun King's Dawn (HERE you can read my review). This second book in the quadrilogy doesn't hold back its punches, continuing the tale of asexual king Richard and his struggles both as monarch of a realm in peril and as a man who finds love for the first time and needs to navigate his feelings. As in the first book, his sex-repulsion features heavily and it's handled deftly, detailling the strong feelings of alienation and the first fluttering beats of a romance that he feels he can't have, duty-bound and unwilling to deny affection to his knight. This is done beautifully and delicately, and it's lovely to see such a nuanced exploration of achillean asexuality in a fantasy novel.
For his part, the knight Kaelen also has some maturing to do, and his journey is worth reading. This continues to be a series about strong relationships, both familial and friendship. Richard learns to open up a bit, to seek counsel more, to heed advice; but he's still strong-willed and used to load everything up on his shoulders, with mixed results. He's a flawed character, but they all are: flawed and incredibly human. The complex web of human relationships is further entangled by the introduction of many new characters as Richard reaches for allies against the threat to his kingdom.
The worldbuilding expands with new kingdoms and people, showing complex traditions and still drawing from our own folklore in a way that is fresh and interesting. The looming threat gives urgency to everything, but there are still some lulls of introspection, quiet moments that are very poignant. One particular moment in the second half of the book, a conversation between Richard and a thief, is especially beautiful and brought tears to my eyes.
The villain gets something of a backseat in this book, still appearing in all his menacing self, but not so overtly present as in the first book. This allows for a tighter focus, and for some really spectacular moments towards the end, a much-needed conversation, and a nail-biting finale.
The Sun King's Noon is a great sequel.
July 22, 2026
Thank you Briar Niran for the eARC!!
Where to begin?? I couldn’t put this book down, in fact King Arthur himself couldn’t have pried my kobo from my hands. The plot sucks you in from the beginning as we pick up from where we left off at the end of book 1.
This book is split into two distinct parts. Part one introduces us to more of the magical beings that exist in the neighbouring realms, as Richard meets with them in a desperate bid to form alliances against Galdran.
We see Richard in action trying to make friends and it’s both endearing and a mess (fret not Kaelen, your man isn’t leaving you for a jacked wolf shifter, Richard just desperately needs a BFF to have nerd-offs with).
Seola, (aka Richard’s long distance bestie), was my favourite of the new characters that were introduced. I really hope we see more of her in the next book because her quips had me dying. She is truly a chaos demon.
“The dull bearing of a booklarva. It is etched clear upon you exactly as your dour brother.”
All the beloved side characters return. Honourable mention for my favs Lady Agnes with her iconic one-liners, and Flint, whose layers the author slowly begins to reveal.
“For fuck’s sake. I’d never have placed you as a yapper.” (Flint @ Richard btw).
Now Kaelen and Richard. They had me both squealing and wanting to rip my hair out in equal measure. I loved seeing them get jealous over each other and have hissy spats like two alley cats. I ate that tension up.
This all comes to a head with the start of the second half of the book, when Kaelen literally whisks Richard away on horseback for a top secret mission.
“This place is drowning him. So I am taking him away.”
This was when I really locked in as we get to see more of Richard and Kaelen’s relationship. They are both idiots and certified yearners, (aka my nirvana). Watching them navigate their feelings for each other was the highlight of the book for me. We knew Kaelen was down bad from the start and we see Richard slowly come to realize what he feels for Kaelen too.
“I thought the gods must have started on him long before the morn he was born. And worked only upon him, upon the man he would become, for an entire age, with the very finest of their tools.”
It was really hard to see Richard’s inner thoughts at times, as he struggles with self doubt, isolation, and otherness, and how his feelings for Kaelen fit with his asexuality. The author takes a lot care navigating these inner monologues and the asexuality representation.
Things were ending on a hopeful note for Richard and Kaelen only for Briar Niran to absolutely wreck me with that cliffhanger. I fear 2027 cannot come soon enough.
Where to begin?? I couldn’t put this book down, in fact King Arthur himself couldn’t have pried my kobo from my hands. The plot sucks you in from the beginning as we pick up from where we left off at the end of book 1.
This book is split into two distinct parts. Part one introduces us to more of the magical beings that exist in the neighbouring realms, as Richard meets with them in a desperate bid to form alliances against Galdran.
We see Richard in action trying to make friends and it’s both endearing and a mess (fret not Kaelen, your man isn’t leaving you for a jacked wolf shifter, Richard just desperately needs a BFF to have nerd-offs with).
Seola, (aka Richard’s long distance bestie), was my favourite of the new characters that were introduced. I really hope we see more of her in the next book because her quips had me dying. She is truly a chaos demon.
“The dull bearing of a booklarva. It is etched clear upon you exactly as your dour brother.”
All the beloved side characters return. Honourable mention for my favs Lady Agnes with her iconic one-liners, and Flint, whose layers the author slowly begins to reveal.
“For fuck’s sake. I’d never have placed you as a yapper.” (Flint @ Richard btw).
Now Kaelen and Richard. They had me both squealing and wanting to rip my hair out in equal measure. I loved seeing them get jealous over each other and have hissy spats like two alley cats. I ate that tension up.
This all comes to a head with the start of the second half of the book, when Kaelen literally whisks Richard away on horseback for a top secret mission.
“This place is drowning him. So I am taking him away.”
This was when I really locked in as we get to see more of Richard and Kaelen’s relationship. They are both idiots and certified yearners, (aka my nirvana). Watching them navigate their feelings for each other was the highlight of the book for me. We knew Kaelen was down bad from the start and we see Richard slowly come to realize what he feels for Kaelen too.
“I thought the gods must have started on him long before the morn he was born. And worked only upon him, upon the man he would become, for an entire age, with the very finest of their tools.”
It was really hard to see Richard’s inner thoughts at times, as he struggles with self doubt, isolation, and otherness, and how his feelings for Kaelen fit with his asexuality. The author takes a lot care navigating these inner monologues and the asexuality representation.
Things were ending on a hopeful note for Richard and Kaelen only for Briar Niran to absolutely wreck me with that cliffhanger. I fear 2027 cannot come soon enough.
July 5, 2026
Big thanks to the author for the ARC💛
I read this in no time <3
One thing I really appreciated was that the characters had actual arguments, not just mild disagreements. I feel like a lot of authors are afraid to let their characters truly fight. That wasn't the case here. When these characters argued, they genuinely hurt each other with the things they said. Even though is was frustrating to read at the time, I feel like it made the characters feel so much more human.
I also really loved the humor. All the bickering between different characters made sure the story never felt boring.
and the YEARNING🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
Some quotes because I truly love the written word✨
"{...} and the room went dark. Until the dark softened to grey, then warmed into golden streaks as dawn's light crept through the windows and illuminated his trembling hands." I love this writing style! I mean "illuminated his trembling hands"?! wow
"You are fortunate, Sun King. In Naradesh, we say that a household without a difficult elder is a household the gods have forgotten"🫣😂 @myfamily
"In my sons eyes, you are a rose in full bloom"
"My son is not a bargain to be struck in flesh" she said sharply. "He does not beg for scraps at a table, for he is a person, a full person, to be loved entirely"
"You gave me my loved ones with their hard edges sanded off," Richard said {...} "But I love my father at his most demanding, and my mother at her most despairing, and my siblings when they are tiresome and cruel"
I read this in no time <3
One thing I really appreciated was that the characters had actual arguments, not just mild disagreements. I feel like a lot of authors are afraid to let their characters truly fight. That wasn't the case here. When these characters argued, they genuinely hurt each other with the things they said. Even though is was frustrating to read at the time, I feel like it made the characters feel so much more human.
I also really loved the humor. All the bickering between different characters made sure the story never felt boring.
and the YEARNING🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
Some quotes because I truly love the written word✨
"{...} and the room went dark. Until the dark softened to grey, then warmed into golden streaks as dawn's light crept through the windows and illuminated his trembling hands." I love this writing style! I mean "illuminated his trembling hands"?! wow
"You are fortunate, Sun King. In Naradesh, we say that a household without a difficult elder is a household the gods have forgotten"🫣😂 @myfamily
"In my sons eyes, you are a rose in full bloom"
"My son is not a bargain to be struck in flesh" she said sharply. "He does not beg for scraps at a table, for he is a person, a full person, to be loved entirely"
"You gave me my loved ones with their hard edges sanded off," Richard said {...} "But I love my father at his most demanding, and my mother at her most despairing, and my siblings when they are tiresome and cruel"
July 4, 2026
Is it a "long" book? Yes
It is the most frustrating slow-burn of all times? Maybe
Did I love the book? Abso-fucking-lutely
I definitely did not expect the book to go this slow but I can't say that I noticed it while reading. It's written so well that even "slow" scenes are nothing that I wanted to skim over but instead they increase the charm of the book. And while I did find some characters (and their goddamn obliviousness) frustrating, it was in the most endearing way.
Emotional turmoil for surrrreeee but I wouldn't have it any other way because it just proves the class of the writing and world-building in this book(series).
Again, cannot wait for the next part (because I have no idea how things are gonna turn out and I absolutely love that).
SPOILERSSS:
Just... IT TOOK OVER ONE AND A HALF BOOKS AND EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER, RICHARD, EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER WAS TRYING TO TELL YOU SOMETHING AND IT'S FLINT?!?!?!? THAT TELLS YOU
I do have to say that while for a second I was really bothered by the idea of Richard and Kaelen being split up after finally finding each other and was more than relieved that it did not turn into the whole cliché of having to rescue the love - because we all know that Kaelen well enough learned to rescue himself!
BUT CORWIN.... REALLY???? I was so happy and that just... whoosh... destroyed within one chapter...
It is the most frustrating slow-burn of all times? Maybe
Did I love the book? Abso-fucking-lutely
I definitely did not expect the book to go this slow but I can't say that I noticed it while reading. It's written so well that even "slow" scenes are nothing that I wanted to skim over but instead they increase the charm of the book. And while I did find some characters (and their goddamn obliviousness) frustrating, it was in the most endearing way.
Emotional turmoil for surrrreeee but I wouldn't have it any other way because it just proves the class of the writing and world-building in this book(series).
Again, cannot wait for the next part (because I have no idea how things are gonna turn out and I absolutely love that).
SPOILERSSS:
Just... IT TOOK OVER ONE AND A HALF BOOKS AND EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER, RICHARD, EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER WAS TRYING TO TELL YOU SOMETHING AND IT'S FLINT?!?!?!? THAT TELLS YOU
I do have to say that while for a second I was really bothered by the idea of Richard and Kaelen being split up after finally finding each other and was more than relieved that it did not turn into the whole cliché of having to rescue the love - because we all know that Kaelen well enough learned to rescue himself!
BUT CORWIN.... REALLY???? I was so happy and that just... whoosh... destroyed within one chapter...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2026
A HUGE thank you to the author and NetGalley for sending me this second ARC.
The author was so kind to concede the ARC to me via email a few days ago, and yesterday when I was at about 50% I was so overwhelmed (positively) by it all that I requested it as well on NetGalley just to be able to review it over there as well, everybody needs to read this saga stat.
I read the first book only a few days ago after having it sit in my tbr ARC bookshelf for ages and I’m immensely sorry about it because now I am obsessed.
While the first book was clearly written to lay out the beginning of a story so it was for me a bit of a slog to read through the first 50%, this second one begins in a perfect way that made me think straightaway “this is going to be a five star”. The writing was already very good in the first book, but in this second one it was splendid and I simply couldn’t put the book down (ask my family how many times they saw my kindle propped against the water bottle while I was eating lunch or dinner), I love all the characters (yes even the evil ones, because they seem real) and I cannot wait for the third one.
The author was so kind to concede the ARC to me via email a few days ago, and yesterday when I was at about 50% I was so overwhelmed (positively) by it all that I requested it as well on NetGalley just to be able to review it over there as well, everybody needs to read this saga stat.
I read the first book only a few days ago after having it sit in my tbr ARC bookshelf for ages and I’m immensely sorry about it because now I am obsessed.
While the first book was clearly written to lay out the beginning of a story so it was for me a bit of a slog to read through the first 50%, this second one begins in a perfect way that made me think straightaway “this is going to be a five star”. The writing was already very good in the first book, but in this second one it was splendid and I simply couldn’t put the book down (ask my family how many times they saw my kindle propped against the water bottle while I was eating lunch or dinner), I love all the characters (yes even the evil ones, because they seem real) and I cannot wait for the third one.
July 2, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy received from the author:
I might have yearned to read this sequel more than Kaelan yearns for Richard (No really I mean it)
There is something so heart warming about this cast of characters, they are beautifully written, the author managing to convey human nature/struggles in a realistic fashion that allow you to relate to them all for one reason or another. From valiant but easily flustered (around a certain King) Kaelan, sassy siblings and meddling friends to our MC Richard who is stoic, proud and stubborn, makes a lot of mistakes, but would do anything for those he considers family.
I have loved returning to this world where Richard is now trying to find allies against the upcoming threat and prevent the spread of rot, all while being adorably confused about his reactions to a certain Knight. Possessive Richard was not on my bingo card, but I am here for it!
We have quests, mythical creatures, magic, but in a realistic medieval world where there are tyrant kings, betrayals and descriptions of torture (included in trigger warnings).
I will try to wait patiently for the next instalment!
I might have yearned to read this sequel more than Kaelan yearns for Richard (No really I mean it)
There is something so heart warming about this cast of characters, they are beautifully written, the author managing to convey human nature/struggles in a realistic fashion that allow you to relate to them all for one reason or another. From valiant but easily flustered (around a certain King) Kaelan, sassy siblings and meddling friends to our MC Richard who is stoic, proud and stubborn, makes a lot of mistakes, but would do anything for those he considers family.
I have loved returning to this world where Richard is now trying to find allies against the upcoming threat and prevent the spread of rot, all while being adorably confused about his reactions to a certain Knight. Possessive Richard was not on my bingo card, but I am here for it!
We have quests, mythical creatures, magic, but in a realistic medieval world where there are tyrant kings, betrayals and descriptions of torture (included in trigger warnings).
I will try to wait patiently for the next instalment!
July 9, 2026
So getting an arc from the author was a doubled edged sword.
On the one hand it stated my hunger for more of Richard and Kaelen… on the other I now need the next book immediately!!
Once again Niran has swept me away with their complex characters, intriguing plot and fascinating world building. I found myself laughing, grumbling and wanting to bash some heads together quite often during my reading.
I think one of the things I love is that their characters are human. Their thoughts and feelings are layered and while you can’t help but moan in frustration around some of their choices you can see the thought processes behind them.
If you wanted more yearning, blushing and jealousy this book will definitely deliver. Along with plot that gets more and more interesting as time goes on.
The ace rep again has my heart and it’s so wonderful to see it, most of the time I find my experiences don’t match ace characters but I feel a closeness to Richard and his journey which makes me root for him even more.
Finally I must admit while I love Richard and Kaelen my favourite character has to be Agnes - I hope one day I’m as difficult, funny and gives no **** just like her.
On the one hand it stated my hunger for more of Richard and Kaelen… on the other I now need the next book immediately!!
Once again Niran has swept me away with their complex characters, intriguing plot and fascinating world building. I found myself laughing, grumbling and wanting to bash some heads together quite often during my reading.
I think one of the things I love is that their characters are human. Their thoughts and feelings are layered and while you can’t help but moan in frustration around some of their choices you can see the thought processes behind them.
If you wanted more yearning, blushing and jealousy this book will definitely deliver. Along with plot that gets more and more interesting as time goes on.
The ace rep again has my heart and it’s so wonderful to see it, most of the time I find my experiences don’t match ace characters but I feel a closeness to Richard and his journey which makes me root for him even more.
Finally I must admit while I love Richard and Kaelen my favourite character has to be Agnes - I hope one day I’m as difficult, funny and gives no **** just like her.
July 19, 2026
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
I love love love this series, the world feels so rich, the characters are real, and the creatures are so refreshing!
If anyone asks you the difference between intelligence and wisdom, I have to show them King Richard. He's so well read, intelligent, and I'm so jealous of his memory, but this man STRUGGLES socially. Poor thing nearly always says the wrong thing, and I want to shake sense into him and give him the biggest hug at the same time!
Without giving anything away, the way Briar writes the world and the creatures the characters encounter is so vibrant that I feel like I'm there. The imaginings (even reimaginings) and descriptions of these fantastical beasts have me not wanting to stop reading.
I devoured this book, and I genuinely felt depressed when I realised I was over halfway.
I'm so ready for book 3 ♥️♥️♥️
P.s. if you're still looking for a spicy time, the main character is Ace, but the yearning is so freakin real!!
I love love love this series, the world feels so rich, the characters are real, and the creatures are so refreshing!
If anyone asks you the difference between intelligence and wisdom, I have to show them King Richard. He's so well read, intelligent, and I'm so jealous of his memory, but this man STRUGGLES socially. Poor thing nearly always says the wrong thing, and I want to shake sense into him and give him the biggest hug at the same time!
Without giving anything away, the way Briar writes the world and the creatures the characters encounter is so vibrant that I feel like I'm there. The imaginings (even reimaginings) and descriptions of these fantastical beasts have me not wanting to stop reading.
I devoured this book, and I genuinely felt depressed when I realised I was over halfway.
I'm so ready for book 3 ♥️♥️♥️
P.s. if you're still looking for a spicy time, the main character is Ace, but the yearning is so freakin real!!
July 21, 2026
Can the second book be even better than the first? In this case, absolutely. Almost 600 pages of epic queer fantasy, which left me almost screaming at the end. With all due respect, how dare you, dear author, leave us at such place? Not sure how to properly function until book 3 is out.
Even more adventures, or rather, quests from out favorite King and his Knight. One challenge after another, the plot keeps on plotting, to say the least. I was rather scared that book 2 won't be as action, emotion filled as the first one, but I got to admit that I felt even more (devastated) in this one. So much hurt, pain and suffering, oh my poor Richard. I want to hug him so bad, it hurts.
The emotional growth between Richard and Kaelen was lovely. Bit by bit they are growing closer, Richard finally seeing his loyal Knight for who he is - his second half. Oh my heart.
Really enjoyed the plot of this book, got to learn more about the world, met new, surprising characters. Devoured this story in two days or so and almost threw my Kindle to the wall at the end. ILLEGAL ending!
Ready to be emotionally destroyed by book 3, which can't come soon enough.
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
Even more adventures, or rather, quests from out favorite King and his Knight. One challenge after another, the plot keeps on plotting, to say the least. I was rather scared that book 2 won't be as action, emotion filled as the first one, but I got to admit that I felt even more (devastated) in this one. So much hurt, pain and suffering, oh my poor Richard. I want to hug him so bad, it hurts.
The emotional growth between Richard and Kaelen was lovely. Bit by bit they are growing closer, Richard finally seeing his loyal Knight for who he is - his second half. Oh my heart.
Really enjoyed the plot of this book, got to learn more about the world, met new, surprising characters. Devoured this story in two days or so and almost threw my Kindle to the wall at the end. ILLEGAL ending!
Ready to be emotionally destroyed by book 3, which can't come soon enough.
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
August 7, 2026
I've never wanted to read a sequel so fast in my life!! Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC, I'm gladly leaving a review with my true opinion.
Both TSKD and TSKN have been, in my opinion, perfectly paced, compelling to the point I've cleared my schedule some days and stayed up late nights reading "one more chapter," and found a perfect mix of plot and characters. Not to mention, as someone often intimidated by the length and vast world-building of the fantasy genre, I LOVE that this series is easy to follow, the characters are distinct and memorable with unique personalities, and it still feels like a story about the people even in a world full of magic, curses, prophecies, and realm politics. I was laughing with my whole belly and gasping out loud and sniffling tears from my eyes...truly charmed the entire time!♥️
Briar Niran's characters are some of the most endearing I've ever met as their human relationships (despite their flaws) keep them anchored despite the dark magical threat looming on the future's horizon. There's something so grounding reading about a King who is, at heart, just a man whose family and whose kingdom are his entire world, even if the weight of his burden and responsibility threaten to crush him. Anyone who has a tight-knit family and has been forced to take on a parenting role before they felt ready will resonate with Richard as he tries to balance his duty as King while also navigating the changing dynamics of him and his siblings as they grow up.
Briony is truly the star among her siblings in this book: we follow her as she experiences her own hardships from dark plots in the shadows, hidden abilities, looming secrets too heavy for a child to carry alone, schoolyard love rivalries, preteen insecurities, and the fact that growing up means wearing a corset to balls, lol!
Not only that, but The Sun King's Noon warmed my heart to its core and brought tears to my eyes as Richard, confronted with jealousy and what could possibly be his first love, is introduced to the idea that love and desire don't always go hand-in-hand. He isn't broken. He isn't wrong. He just is--and that could be perfectly enough to get his own future HEA with the knight who's been devoted to him since before Richard ever realized he existed.
While of course we see more of the adorkable Kaelen being his helplessly smitten self, I really appreciated that TSKN asks some big questions about what it really means to love someone, to be in a committed relationship, and what shape that might look like when it comes to allosexual vs. asexual people. Sacrifice and compromise are part of any relationship, after all, whether it's among family, friends, traveling companions, or potential lovers. As the story takes our protagonist outside the walls of the kingdom on an undercover adventure, many possibilities and perspectives open up to Richard in a way that I hope would help any asexual readers or readers questioning their sexuality to consider these questions with all the kindness and empathy they deserve.♥️
As someone who has grown up surrounded by almost entirely asexuals making up the inner circle of people I love most, I adore Richard's story more than I can put into words. I see them reflected in Richard's fears, how he sees himself and his differences, the wonderful (and sometimes hilariously insufferable) ways he tries to connect with others and the world around him, and how he finds happiness and fulfillment surrounded by his own loved ones in daily life. Love is an action just as much as it is a feeling, and the choice to love others even when you fight or hurt one another is a theme I'm loving to see show up all across these books in all the different realms.
I'll be waiting on the edge of my seat for Book 3, The Sun King's Dusk!!
Both TSKD and TSKN have been, in my opinion, perfectly paced, compelling to the point I've cleared my schedule some days and stayed up late nights reading "one more chapter," and found a perfect mix of plot and characters. Not to mention, as someone often intimidated by the length and vast world-building of the fantasy genre, I LOVE that this series is easy to follow, the characters are distinct and memorable with unique personalities, and it still feels like a story about the people even in a world full of magic, curses, prophecies, and realm politics. I was laughing with my whole belly and gasping out loud and sniffling tears from my eyes...truly charmed the entire time!♥️
Briar Niran's characters are some of the most endearing I've ever met as their human relationships (despite their flaws) keep them anchored despite the dark magical threat looming on the future's horizon. There's something so grounding reading about a King who is, at heart, just a man whose family and whose kingdom are his entire world, even if the weight of his burden and responsibility threaten to crush him. Anyone who has a tight-knit family and has been forced to take on a parenting role before they felt ready will resonate with Richard as he tries to balance his duty as King while also navigating the changing dynamics of him and his siblings as they grow up.
Briony is truly the star among her siblings in this book: we follow her as she experiences her own hardships from dark plots in the shadows, hidden abilities, looming secrets too heavy for a child to carry alone, schoolyard love rivalries, preteen insecurities, and the fact that growing up means wearing a corset to balls, lol!
Not only that, but The Sun King's Noon warmed my heart to its core and brought tears to my eyes as Richard, confronted with jealousy and what could possibly be his first love, is introduced to the idea that love and desire don't always go hand-in-hand. He isn't broken. He isn't wrong. He just is--and that could be perfectly enough to get his own future HEA with the knight who's been devoted to him since before Richard ever realized he existed.
While of course we see more of the adorkable Kaelen being his helplessly smitten self, I really appreciated that TSKN asks some big questions about what it really means to love someone, to be in a committed relationship, and what shape that might look like when it comes to allosexual vs. asexual people. Sacrifice and compromise are part of any relationship, after all, whether it's among family, friends, traveling companions, or potential lovers. As the story takes our protagonist outside the walls of the kingdom on an undercover adventure, many possibilities and perspectives open up to Richard in a way that I hope would help any asexual readers or readers questioning their sexuality to consider these questions with all the kindness and empathy they deserve.♥️
As someone who has grown up surrounded by almost entirely asexuals making up the inner circle of people I love most, I adore Richard's story more than I can put into words. I see them reflected in Richard's fears, how he sees himself and his differences, the wonderful (and sometimes hilariously insufferable) ways he tries to connect with others and the world around him, and how he finds happiness and fulfillment surrounded by his own loved ones in daily life. Love is an action just as much as it is a feeling, and the choice to love others even when you fight or hurt one another is a theme I'm loving to see show up all across these books in all the different realms.
I'll be waiting on the edge of my seat for Book 3, The Sun King's Dusk!!
July 10, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
I strongly recommend reading book one first but also the prequel The Squire and His Prince and every short story available because a lot of events from it are referred to and give it more comprehension and insight.
This was such an incredibly marvelous second settling of the saga. I still can't believe how this saga is new but somehow already so important in my life and my soul. Definitely in my top 10 of the year, top 5 even, and Briar Niran is now part of my all-time favorite authors.
So much happened, and yet I couldn't stop wanting more and more, couldn't put the book down until I knew what would happen. It never felt rushed or slow, I just ate every word with dedication and was at the edge of my seat seeing events and feelings unfold on the page, screaming and kicking my feet at some of their actions or words, in a good way or not. Yes, they do make us suffer in this one... and it was delicious. The book ends in an even more precarious situation than it began (beware of the cliffhanger hehe) and yet every adventure they endured matters, even if we do realize as long as Richard that the gloam King may seem impossible to avoid or vanquish.
"This place is drowning him - So I am taking him away."
The Sun King's Dawn is divided into two big distinct parts, the first one being Richard trying to make allies at Ardenia by setting up a ball while everything slowly crumbles around him.
This was so emotional and frustrating. There are no perfect characters in this story, all have flaws despite their good intentions and sometimes make mistakes, but that's what makes them so dearly lovable and why we want to root for them, even in their wrongs or most irritating moments. Richard did not have it easy at all during this time, and we witness him slowly drowning and suffocating under the pressure of the crown, more than ever isolated and misunderstood in this crushing duty to himself and the duties he bears over his loved ones and the kingdom, all while Galdran's gloomy threat still lingers. We can feel it spreading and rotting everything in its wake even without the presence of its Elf King for most of it, which sets such a heavy atmosphere.
"If your affection bears a different shape, then I shall try to learn its corners."
The second part is another adventure in itself, full of little shenanigans and known characters being brought back and some new encounters. It felt such a fresh breath of air after the dense and intense and stressful first part. We get some magnificent and meaningful dialogues all along, but some are really important for Richard's personal development there. Seeing him slowly come to terms with what he really feels for Kaelen was incredibly precious, especially after all the jealousy and misunderstandings from before. Seeing them slowly talking to each other again, really talking, outside of the overbearing walls of the castle, was soul-warming.
We also discover more of the worldbuilding and its creatures, which was such a delight. The writing and mind behind it are stunning, and what an amazingly awesome read. I'm still in awe. I already can't wait for the next installment, which will surely break our hearts once more, and I will bear mine gladly, for the experience is mind-blowing and worth it every single time.
PS: KAELEN THE BRAVE AND LOYAL AND BEAUTIFUL MAN THAT YOU ARE *sobbing*
I strongly recommend reading book one first but also the prequel The Squire and His Prince and every short story available because a lot of events from it are referred to and give it more comprehension and insight.
This was such an incredibly marvelous second settling of the saga. I still can't believe how this saga is new but somehow already so important in my life and my soul. Definitely in my top 10 of the year, top 5 even, and Briar Niran is now part of my all-time favorite authors.
So much happened, and yet I couldn't stop wanting more and more, couldn't put the book down until I knew what would happen. It never felt rushed or slow, I just ate every word with dedication and was at the edge of my seat seeing events and feelings unfold on the page, screaming and kicking my feet at some of their actions or words, in a good way or not. Yes, they do make us suffer in this one... and it was delicious. The book ends in an even more precarious situation than it began (beware of the cliffhanger hehe) and yet every adventure they endured matters, even if we do realize as long as Richard that the gloam King may seem impossible to avoid or vanquish.
"This place is drowning him - So I am taking him away."
The Sun King's Dawn is divided into two big distinct parts, the first one being Richard trying to make allies at Ardenia by setting up a ball while everything slowly crumbles around him.
This was so emotional and frustrating. There are no perfect characters in this story, all have flaws despite their good intentions and sometimes make mistakes, but that's what makes them so dearly lovable and why we want to root for them, even in their wrongs or most irritating moments. Richard did not have it easy at all during this time, and we witness him slowly drowning and suffocating under the pressure of the crown, more than ever isolated and misunderstood in this crushing duty to himself and the duties he bears over his loved ones and the kingdom, all while Galdran's gloomy threat still lingers. We can feel it spreading and rotting everything in its wake even without the presence of its Elf King for most of it, which sets such a heavy atmosphere.
"If your affection bears a different shape, then I shall try to learn its corners."
The second part is another adventure in itself, full of little shenanigans and known characters being brought back and some new encounters. It felt such a fresh breath of air after the dense and intense and stressful first part. We get some magnificent and meaningful dialogues all along, but some are really important for Richard's personal development there. Seeing him slowly come to terms with what he really feels for Kaelen was incredibly precious, especially after all the jealousy and misunderstandings from before. Seeing them slowly talking to each other again, really talking, outside of the overbearing walls of the castle, was soul-warming.
We also discover more of the worldbuilding and its creatures, which was such a delight. The writing and mind behind it are stunning, and what an amazingly awesome read. I'm still in awe. I already can't wait for the next installment, which will surely break our hearts once more, and I will bear mine gladly, for the experience is mind-blowing and worth it every single time.
PS: KAELEN THE BRAVE AND LOYAL AND BEAUTIFUL MAN THAT YOU ARE *sobbing*
July 11, 2026
I'm not in the habit of using GR any more but I will just to ensure that an indie author who's out-writing half the books on mainstream fantasy shelves gets their flowers!!
This is an absolutely exquisite, devastating and thrilling follow up to book one. Niran’s skill continues to leave me on the floor.
In book two, we continue to follow King Richard on his harrowing mission to save Ardenia from the coming war with Galdran and his Gloamvarn army. The Sun King’s Noon really builds on the magic system, lore and history of this world. Where we get a taste of the magic that exists in these realms in Book One, Book Two expands upon it immensely. This book helped satisfy my hunger to learn more about what types of magic and sorcery exist in this world and how people might harness it. We’re introduced to so many unique things, from Flint’s magic revealed further, lore about Witches in this world and how they manifest power differently than the sorcerers we saw in book one, etc. We see many, many more magical creatures and fae beings, and learn more about the surrounding realms to Ardenia. It’s truly a feast in this book.
And of course, we get so much more of Richard and Kaelen, especially exploration of their relationship and how they see each other. A theme definitely explored in this book is how as we soften towards someone, the rougher we might treat them, ironically. As Richard and Kaelen deepen their connection, their fights also intensify and deepen. Their arguments and disagreements are more frequent and fierier. Ironically, the connection between them both allows them to care deeper but also allows them to fight easier and more often. The closer you are to someone, the easier it is to hurt them because you’ve become more comfortable saying your piece. This happens frequently between the pair in this book, as the decisions they have to make become more impossible, and there’s no right answer sometimes.
This also goes for Richard and his siblings. As danger looms and decisions become more impossible to make, the spats between the siblings also intensify. Some of this is Galdran’s doing - he wants them fragmented with eroding trust and high emotions. What quarrels already existed are reignited by Galdran’s scheming and capitalizes on the rising tensions that already existed in the Castle.
This book perfectly balanced scenes of exciting adventure and quests across borders with quieter scenes of inner turmoil, relationships that both fractured and bloomed, and wondrous lore reveals. Kings in disguise, monstrous shapeshifting sirens, traveling circuses and a grand summer ball - Niran said here, have it all!!!
I am so grateful to have received an ARC from the author and had the opportunity to read this early. Like with the first book, I will force everyone I know to read this.
This is an absolutely exquisite, devastating and thrilling follow up to book one. Niran’s skill continues to leave me on the floor.
In book two, we continue to follow King Richard on his harrowing mission to save Ardenia from the coming war with Galdran and his Gloamvarn army. The Sun King’s Noon really builds on the magic system, lore and history of this world. Where we get a taste of the magic that exists in these realms in Book One, Book Two expands upon it immensely. This book helped satisfy my hunger to learn more about what types of magic and sorcery exist in this world and how people might harness it. We’re introduced to so many unique things, from Flint’s magic revealed further, lore about Witches in this world and how they manifest power differently than the sorcerers we saw in book one, etc. We see many, many more magical creatures and fae beings, and learn more about the surrounding realms to Ardenia. It’s truly a feast in this book.
And of course, we get so much more of Richard and Kaelen, especially exploration of their relationship and how they see each other. A theme definitely explored in this book is how as we soften towards someone, the rougher we might treat them, ironically. As Richard and Kaelen deepen their connection, their fights also intensify and deepen. Their arguments and disagreements are more frequent and fierier. Ironically, the connection between them both allows them to care deeper but also allows them to fight easier and more often. The closer you are to someone, the easier it is to hurt them because you’ve become more comfortable saying your piece. This happens frequently between the pair in this book, as the decisions they have to make become more impossible, and there’s no right answer sometimes.
This also goes for Richard and his siblings. As danger looms and decisions become more impossible to make, the spats between the siblings also intensify. Some of this is Galdran’s doing - he wants them fragmented with eroding trust and high emotions. What quarrels already existed are reignited by Galdran’s scheming and capitalizes on the rising tensions that already existed in the Castle.
This book perfectly balanced scenes of exciting adventure and quests across borders with quieter scenes of inner turmoil, relationships that both fractured and bloomed, and wondrous lore reveals. Kings in disguise, monstrous shapeshifting sirens, traveling circuses and a grand summer ball - Niran said here, have it all!!!
I am so grateful to have received an ARC from the author and had the opportunity to read this early. Like with the first book, I will force everyone I know to read this.
July 31, 2026
ARC-Review, thank you netgalley and Briar Niran for providing me with a copy.
After knowing that war is inevitable, King Richard has to find allies and so he prepares a diplomatic ball. Of course, all goes sideways and it does not stop there. He leaves Ardania on a secret mission, leaving his kingdom in his siblings hands, and there he stumbles - mostly over his own emotions that he learns to understand with the help of a friend. But of course also here things go wrong as they are so prone to do…
The Sun King's Noon is the second book in the series The Sun King and his knight. I loved the first book and the second is even better. I giggled and kicked my feet practically the whole way through this book. I wanted to squish my face against the pages and I even had to bend over on occasion with a groan and a wide grin because of how much I enjoyed every single chapter.
Richard is still a wonderful representation of asexuality and it's complexity, the struggles of it, for me. It is healing to read how Richard struggles and finds understanding of himself more. And the way he stumbles through this book is more than entertaining, it is touching and gentle. On occasion I wanted to rip my hairs out while I laughed at the same time. Richard has his dark side, as everyone does, and in this book it shows more, while he also shines brighter in his good sides. His curiosity allowing him to form bridges where nothing was before.
The characters gained even more depths in this book, especially Flint, and I already loved the ones we had in the first book. It continues to build up and tension rises more. The complex backstories being shared and emotions not always being so easy or logical. Especially such emotions as grudges and hate. This is where this book shines incredibly strong for me, the way the fights between the characters go and are not just simply resolved and do not show up again. They stay and matter. As well as action that carry through the story and have consequences. This is something I really love, it shows that the words and the actions that the characters decide to do matter. Not just for the story but for the world and for other characters.
I do think this book touches more unto the theme of relationships, all the different kinds, and how hold information back, even though out of care and for good reasons, can backfire massively. And that the people who love us most can also be the ones that can hurt us the most. But one fight does not mean the end. And I can not wait to get the third book into my hands.
Conclusion: Lady Agnes is now my life goal. If I become half the Woman she is I will be more than content. And getting the third book into my hands is not a want, it is a need and one that is necessary for my survival.
After knowing that war is inevitable, King Richard has to find allies and so he prepares a diplomatic ball. Of course, all goes sideways and it does not stop there. He leaves Ardania on a secret mission, leaving his kingdom in his siblings hands, and there he stumbles - mostly over his own emotions that he learns to understand with the help of a friend. But of course also here things go wrong as they are so prone to do…
The Sun King's Noon is the second book in the series The Sun King and his knight. I loved the first book and the second is even better. I giggled and kicked my feet practically the whole way through this book. I wanted to squish my face against the pages and I even had to bend over on occasion with a groan and a wide grin because of how much I enjoyed every single chapter.
Richard is still a wonderful representation of asexuality and it's complexity, the struggles of it, for me. It is healing to read how Richard struggles and finds understanding of himself more. And the way he stumbles through this book is more than entertaining, it is touching and gentle. On occasion I wanted to rip my hairs out while I laughed at the same time. Richard has his dark side, as everyone does, and in this book it shows more, while he also shines brighter in his good sides. His curiosity allowing him to form bridges where nothing was before.
The characters gained even more depths in this book, especially Flint, and I already loved the ones we had in the first book. It continues to build up and tension rises more. The complex backstories being shared and emotions not always being so easy or logical. Especially such emotions as grudges and hate. This is where this book shines incredibly strong for me, the way the fights between the characters go and are not just simply resolved and do not show up again. They stay and matter. As well as action that carry through the story and have consequences. This is something I really love, it shows that the words and the actions that the characters decide to do matter. Not just for the story but for the world and for other characters.
I do think this book touches more unto the theme of relationships, all the different kinds, and how hold information back, even though out of care and for good reasons, can backfire massively. And that the people who love us most can also be the ones that can hurt us the most. But one fight does not mean the end. And I can not wait to get the third book into my hands.
Conclusion: Lady Agnes is now my life goal. If I become half the Woman she is I will be more than content. And getting the third book into my hands is not a want, it is a need and one that is necessary for my survival.
July 8, 2026
Thank you to the author for the arc! All opinions in this honest review are my own.
(PS, if you’re reading this, HOW DARE YOU.)
Holy fuck. Hoooooolyyyyyyyy fuck. This review is going to be terrible because I simply cannot find the words in any of the languages I know to string together how this book made me feel. I don’t think WHGOGJWPWPAJFOCPQHFOXLABCOVOEOQMZJVGULDAPVJGOELGN will cover it.
I just finished this book like less than five minutes ago. There are still tears in my eyes. This is, without a doubt, one of the best fantasy series I have ever read. I’ll get into that in more detail later, but first I just want to point out why I loved this book more than the others.
The prequel novella was so good. It was what hooked me into this storyline in the first place. I like to think Lord Apollo randomly pushed it into my NetGalley feed because he knew just how much this series would change me. But it was a prequel novella, so the stakes and the severity of the storyline weren’t as fleshed out yet.
The first book was also so good. As a neurodivergent asexual eldest sibling related with Richard so much. It was an excellent start to a series and I have a review written about it.
But this book. Oh my gods THIS. BOOK. I don’t even know where to begin. I think for me what really set it apart from the others were two things:
The plot twists
The character development
I love Richard. I want to be his best friend please and thank you. I want to give him a library of all the books he could ever want and give him a hug and take the burden off his shoulders for a while. The development he went through in this book was incredibly done. The slow burn is still slow burning, though there is a little flame there now. His love for his siblings is so realistic and so incredible and UGH it just hits home. I too would burn the world for my younger siblings (do not tell them I said that).
THE PLOT TWISTS. No spoilers here. I might need to visit the ER for the whiplash they gave me. Also that cliffhanger is illegal and I will be suing for emotional damages (that is a joke) (I did cry several times, though).
I have been searching for a fantasy book that meets a very hyperspecific taste for YEARS. This book is it. It has everything I want. Slow burn, strong characters, fantasy elements that are well thought out, side characters who have personality, everything. EVERYTHING. Reading this book is not enough. I need to absorb it like I’m some single cell organism that requires literature to survive.
I will actually get on my hands and knees to beg you to read this. I need the next book yesterday.
(PS, if you’re reading this, HOW DARE YOU.)
Holy fuck. Hoooooolyyyyyyyy fuck. This review is going to be terrible because I simply cannot find the words in any of the languages I know to string together how this book made me feel. I don’t think WHGOGJWPWPAJFOCPQHFOXLABCOVOEOQMZJVGULDAPVJGOELGN will cover it.
I just finished this book like less than five minutes ago. There are still tears in my eyes. This is, without a doubt, one of the best fantasy series I have ever read. I’ll get into that in more detail later, but first I just want to point out why I loved this book more than the others.
The prequel novella was so good. It was what hooked me into this storyline in the first place. I like to think Lord Apollo randomly pushed it into my NetGalley feed because he knew just how much this series would change me. But it was a prequel novella, so the stakes and the severity of the storyline weren’t as fleshed out yet.
The first book was also so good. As a neurodivergent asexual eldest sibling related with Richard so much. It was an excellent start to a series and I have a review written about it.
But this book. Oh my gods THIS. BOOK. I don’t even know where to begin. I think for me what really set it apart from the others were two things:
The plot twists
The character development
I love Richard. I want to be his best friend please and thank you. I want to give him a library of all the books he could ever want and give him a hug and take the burden off his shoulders for a while. The development he went through in this book was incredibly done. The slow burn is still slow burning, though there is a little flame there now. His love for his siblings is so realistic and so incredible and UGH it just hits home. I too would burn the world for my younger siblings (do not tell them I said that).
THE PLOT TWISTS. No spoilers here. I might need to visit the ER for the whiplash they gave me. Also that cliffhanger is illegal and I will be suing for emotional damages (that is a joke) (I did cry several times, though).
I have been searching for a fantasy book that meets a very hyperspecific taste for YEARS. This book is it. It has everything I want. Slow burn, strong characters, fantasy elements that are well thought out, side characters who have personality, everything. EVERYTHING. Reading this book is not enough. I need to absorb it like I’m some single cell organism that requires literature to survive.
I will actually get on my hands and knees to beg you to read this. I need the next book yesterday.
July 11, 2026
I don't know how Briar Niran does it but her books get better and better. This book was amazing.
The veil between Gloamvarn and Ardenia is collapsing and Richard must seek allies to help him protect his people from the incoming threat. When other kings start showing willingness to come to Ardenia's aid, Galdran's show of power turn all Richard's hopes to dust. Now their only salvation are the first creatures. To retrieve them he must set on a journey full of danger, magic and discoveries.
The story was very intense; I couldn't put the book down. It was fast paced and full of action. The world building in the first book was amazing; in this book it expanded even more. I loved the unique magic and different creatures. Each species has their different culture and customs. We even get some hints about dwarves. The plot twists were masterfully done. The story kept me at the edge of my seat the whole time.
At the beginning of the series, from Kaelen's perspective, Richard seemed cold and uncaring. As we get to know him throughout the story, we can see that he cares very much. He loves his siblings above anything else; he is willing to endure their hate if it means they are safe. He is very brave and clever. I loved to see his childlike side when he sees something or someone he thought only existed in legends. At first Richard sees Kaelen as silly and immature but when he gets to know him better he realizes what heavy burdens the knight carries just to spare him the hurt. It was great to watch him spend some time alone with his knight and see him acknowledge his feelings.
Kaelen is perfect for Richard. He is brave and loyal. He doesn't push for more than Richard is willing to give. Although he matured so much, he is still the same blushing and stuttering boy whenever Richard shows him kindness. After many ups and downs their relationship finally started but the prophecies are coming true and I have a feeling that book three will break my heart.
Overall, it was a fantastic read. Everyone needs to read this story. Each book in the series is better than the previous one. There are great characters, unique magic and plot that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. I am looking forward to the next book.
Many thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The veil between Gloamvarn and Ardenia is collapsing and Richard must seek allies to help him protect his people from the incoming threat. When other kings start showing willingness to come to Ardenia's aid, Galdran's show of power turn all Richard's hopes to dust. Now their only salvation are the first creatures. To retrieve them he must set on a journey full of danger, magic and discoveries.
The story was very intense; I couldn't put the book down. It was fast paced and full of action. The world building in the first book was amazing; in this book it expanded even more. I loved the unique magic and different creatures. Each species has their different culture and customs. We even get some hints about dwarves. The plot twists were masterfully done. The story kept me at the edge of my seat the whole time.
At the beginning of the series, from Kaelen's perspective, Richard seemed cold and uncaring. As we get to know him throughout the story, we can see that he cares very much. He loves his siblings above anything else; he is willing to endure their hate if it means they are safe. He is very brave and clever. I loved to see his childlike side when he sees something or someone he thought only existed in legends. At first Richard sees Kaelen as silly and immature but when he gets to know him better he realizes what heavy burdens the knight carries just to spare him the hurt. It was great to watch him spend some time alone with his knight and see him acknowledge his feelings.
Kaelen is perfect for Richard. He is brave and loyal. He doesn't push for more than Richard is willing to give. Although he matured so much, he is still the same blushing and stuttering boy whenever Richard shows him kindness. After many ups and downs their relationship finally started but the prophecies are coming true and I have a feeling that book three will break my heart.
Overall, it was a fantastic read. Everyone needs to read this story. Each book in the series is better than the previous one. There are great characters, unique magic and plot that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. I am looking forward to the next book.
Many thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 17, 2026
The series The Sun King and His Knight is about King Richard of Ardenia, who is facing an existential threat to his kingdom from the wicked elf Galdran, who seeks to possess Richard and destroy his kingdom. Richard is desperately seeking foreign allies and magical solutions, all with the help of his most trusted knight, Kaelen, who has been in love with Richard for many years. Book one ended with a battle that left parts of the capital city High Ardenia in ruin, and book two picks up when repairs are mostly completed and the court is preparing to host foreign dignitaries at a ball, while hoping for pledges of support in the oncoming war.
In a lot of series, book two feels like it's dragging and just filler between the introduction of the problem and the resolution at the end. This book, though, had a lot going on. So much action, many new, interesting characters introduced, and development for the established characters. Lots of development, in particular, for Richard and his feelings. Like, maybe if you feel warm and fuzzy whenever Kaelen smiles at you, and furious when he smiles at someone else, there might be something to that (He literally says "I know only that I should like him to smile at me more. And perhaps-to smile at others less.") I liked where their relationship got to by the end of the book, though I am now desperate for more. I also get the feeling that one of the big character developments for Richard in this series is learning to accept that sometimes he is wrong and has to apologize.😂
This book also gave me something to really think about with Richard getting into a huge fight with his siblings over something he chose not to disclose because he knew the outrage would result in greater harm and death for innocent people. As his sibling, I, too, would have been furious, but... I can't say he is wrong here!!! No right or wrong answers, just a lot of hurt.
Necessary content warning: spiders. my god. spiders!!! Nightmare fuel.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the rest of this series, especially with that cliffhanger! 4.5 stars.
(I received a free advanced review copy from the author/NetGalley.)
In a lot of series, book two feels like it's dragging and just filler between the introduction of the problem and the resolution at the end. This book, though, had a lot going on. So much action, many new, interesting characters introduced, and development for the established characters. Lots of development, in particular, for Richard and his feelings. Like, maybe if you feel warm and fuzzy whenever Kaelen smiles at you, and furious when he smiles at someone else, there might be something to that (He literally says "I know only that I should like him to smile at me more. And perhaps-to smile at others less.") I liked where their relationship got to by the end of the book, though I am now desperate for more. I also get the feeling that one of the big character developments for Richard in this series is learning to accept that sometimes he is wrong and has to apologize.😂
This book also gave me something to really think about with Richard getting into a huge fight with his siblings over something he chose not to disclose because he knew the outrage would result in greater harm and death for innocent people. As his sibling, I, too, would have been furious, but... I can't say he is wrong here!!! No right or wrong answers, just a lot of hurt.
Necessary content warning: spiders. my god. spiders!!! Nightmare fuel.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the rest of this series, especially with that cliffhanger! 4.5 stars.
(I received a free advanced review copy from the author/NetGalley.)
July 24, 2026
I was having fun, and then I wasn't having fun. Disappointed in how things were going by the end. Though, I don't mind how book 2 ended (I actually find myself apathetic about it, but knew it was going to end in that direction because Richard HAS to end up in the Gloam king's realm somehow for the plot to move forward).
Richard's in need of allies to fight off the Gloam king, so when next to no one will pledge their armies to help, he sets off to find the Siren's heart -- which admittedly, I don't remember what it does, it just is supposed to help Richard in his fight against the Gloam king.
The plot is fine. I'm not mad at it. I would like to see how it develops without the intrusion of Kaelen. I know that's impossible, but something about Richard and Kaelen's pending romance is taking away from the plot of the novel for me. It feels forced to me. It feels like it needs more time to cook, especially with how things sort of came together? I have no interest in Kaelen as a love interest for Richard, nor Richard's navigation of love and romance for the first time.
Kaelen simply is not my cup of tea for a character. It's a bit hard for me to get past that. He screams puppy for his master, which I get it, he's a knight dedicated to his king, and the places where he has a backbone are not places where I want him to have one. I think he's a good knight, but at the same time I think sometimes his romantic interest for Richard gets in the way of me enjoying him as a character.
The way Ravi was used to incite jealousy for Richard was kind of childish, but you know, when in love, you can be not so level headed... it does reflect Richard's inability to navigate liking someone for the first time, however. Still made it a chore to read, despite his big age - it is not a 1:1 ratio for his ability to think rationally when he is king, but nonetheless what a fool Richard is.
Prose gets a little clunky in places, and so does the characterization of Richard and Kaelen by the end.
This is where my journey with Richard and Kaelen end. I know he'll save his kingdom, I just won't be there for it. And Richard and Kaelen will have their happy ending surely.
thank you to the author, Briar Niran, for the eARC!
Richard's in need of allies to fight off the Gloam king, so when next to no one will pledge their armies to help, he sets off to find the Siren's heart -- which admittedly, I don't remember what it does, it just is supposed to help Richard in his fight against the Gloam king.
The plot is fine. I'm not mad at it. I would like to see how it develops without the intrusion of Kaelen. I know that's impossible, but something about Richard and Kaelen's pending romance is taking away from the plot of the novel for me. It feels forced to me. It feels like it needs more time to cook, especially with how things sort of came together? I have no interest in Kaelen as a love interest for Richard, nor Richard's navigation of love and romance for the first time.
Kaelen simply is not my cup of tea for a character. It's a bit hard for me to get past that. He screams puppy for his master, which I get it, he's a knight dedicated to his king, and the places where he has a backbone are not places where I want him to have one. I think he's a good knight, but at the same time I think sometimes his romantic interest for Richard gets in the way of me enjoying him as a character.
The way Ravi was used to incite jealousy for Richard was kind of childish, but you know, when in love, you can be not so level headed... it does reflect Richard's inability to navigate liking someone for the first time, however. Still made it a chore to read, despite his big age - it is not a 1:1 ratio for his ability to think rationally when he is king, but nonetheless what a fool Richard is.
Prose gets a little clunky in places, and so does the characterization of Richard and Kaelen by the end.
This is where my journey with Richard and Kaelen end. I know he'll save his kingdom, I just won't be there for it. And Richard and Kaelen will have their happy ending surely.
thank you to the author, Briar Niran, for the eARC!
July 30, 2026
Thank you to the Author and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC!
When I first reviewed The Sun King's Dawn, I mentioned that it kept me up until dawn because I couldn't stop reading, and I'm excited to say that The Sun King's Noon has had the same effect - from page one, it was like returning home.
The great pacing from the first book continues in this one. From the beginning, we pick up with Richard and how the weight of his responsibilities and threats looming ahead feel tangible. This contrasted with the mood and atmosphere changes as the story progresses was very satisfying to me. The conflicts Richard faces within himself and also with those he loves due to compounding factors feel refreshingly necessary, messy and real. Both with his siblings and with Kaelen. So, when we set off on the adventure portion of the story, it encompasses the feeling of turning anxieties into action - and action do we get in many forms!
"If your affection bears a different shape, then I shall try to learn its corners. And I shall do so gladly."
There's something so special and comforting to me to read about someone falling in love for the first time in their thirties and figuring out what that love may look like. While Richard's siblings are his heart stone and reading about them together is so much fun, this book felt like Richard's time to be with himself. I really enjoy him as a character. I like that his words and actions don't always align with his feelings and how hard it can be to make himself understood when he's not even sure what he's feeling himself. Put together with Kaelen, who is earnest and a delight to me and a pain to Richard when he steps out of bounds, and it makes for as edge-of-your-seat fights as it does resolutions. It's impossible to not be invested in them when there's times I wish to shake them and protect them.
If I had any critiques, it's only that I'm greedy for more. The interactions between Richard and each character both familiar (Flint, how I'd love for him to have his own story!) and new felt like they took precedent to lay foundation for what's to come, and yet the plot is the shadow in your peripheral vision the entire time, waiting for someone to jump out. When what was once a shadow suddenly comes to fruition at the end of book two, I was not prepared and have yet to recover!
Needless to say, I'm clawing the walls for book three - and I couldn't be more excited to lose sleep to this series.
When I first reviewed The Sun King's Dawn, I mentioned that it kept me up until dawn because I couldn't stop reading, and I'm excited to say that The Sun King's Noon has had the same effect - from page one, it was like returning home.
The great pacing from the first book continues in this one. From the beginning, we pick up with Richard and how the weight of his responsibilities and threats looming ahead feel tangible. This contrasted with the mood and atmosphere changes as the story progresses was very satisfying to me. The conflicts Richard faces within himself and also with those he loves due to compounding factors feel refreshingly necessary, messy and real. Both with his siblings and with Kaelen. So, when we set off on the adventure portion of the story, it encompasses the feeling of turning anxieties into action - and action do we get in many forms!
"If your affection bears a different shape, then I shall try to learn its corners. And I shall do so gladly."
There's something so special and comforting to me to read about someone falling in love for the first time in their thirties and figuring out what that love may look like. While Richard's siblings are his heart stone and reading about them together is so much fun, this book felt like Richard's time to be with himself. I really enjoy him as a character. I like that his words and actions don't always align with his feelings and how hard it can be to make himself understood when he's not even sure what he's feeling himself. Put together with Kaelen, who is earnest and a delight to me and a pain to Richard when he steps out of bounds, and it makes for as edge-of-your-seat fights as it does resolutions. It's impossible to not be invested in them when there's times I wish to shake them and protect them.
If I had any critiques, it's only that I'm greedy for more. The interactions between Richard and each character both familiar (Flint, how I'd love for him to have his own story!) and new felt like they took precedent to lay foundation for what's to come, and yet the plot is the shadow in your peripheral vision the entire time, waiting for someone to jump out. When what was once a shadow suddenly comes to fruition at the end of book two, I was not prepared and have yet to recover!
Needless to say, I'm clawing the walls for book three - and I couldn't be more excited to lose sleep to this series.
July 31, 2026
So, just on the merits of writing style alone, this is a fantastic book. The author is extremely talented and has to be one of the best authors I've had the pleasure of reading this year. The book is entertaining with well-developed characters and well-described settings. All of that works together to make it an enjoyable read.
What makes it an exceptional read is the fact that the book is queer normative and dares to treat its asexual protagonist like an actual functioning human being. Multiple first or second heirs of the kingdoms in this book are different varieties of queer, and while their families may not totally approve of who they are attracted to, they don't dislike them because they are queer relationships. For example, the main character, Richard, is gay. When it became clear that Richard was never going to marry a female heir to the throne from another kingdom to seal an alliance, his parents tried to pair him with a male heir to the throne from another kingdom to seal their alliance.
In addition to being queer normative, the book is asexual-positive. Richard is asexual and borderline touch-repulsed, but the more that he learns about love and sexuality from other people, the more he evolves from sex being a thing he will never do to something that he might do someday with the right person. There is a wonderful scene in the book that reveals that Richard's conception of what love is only involves sex because that is what was emphasized in his family. As somebody that does not want to have sex, he had accepted that he would never know love. One of his friends/frenemies tells him that love can involve so much more than sex. His realization that he was actually capable of love and that he actually felt it is actually a really wonderful scene.
Additionally, I really appreciate the fact that Richard's asexuality is almost a magical power, as he is immune to most love-based enchantments. There's an adorable scene involving disappointed mermaids in the latter half of the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book for its excellent writing, enjoyable story, and positive portrayal of asexuality. Five stars.
What makes it an exceptional read is the fact that the book is queer normative and dares to treat its asexual protagonist like an actual functioning human being. Multiple first or second heirs of the kingdoms in this book are different varieties of queer, and while their families may not totally approve of who they are attracted to, they don't dislike them because they are queer relationships. For example, the main character, Richard, is gay. When it became clear that Richard was never going to marry a female heir to the throne from another kingdom to seal an alliance, his parents tried to pair him with a male heir to the throne from another kingdom to seal their alliance.
In addition to being queer normative, the book is asexual-positive. Richard is asexual and borderline touch-repulsed, but the more that he learns about love and sexuality from other people, the more he evolves from sex being a thing he will never do to something that he might do someday with the right person. There is a wonderful scene in the book that reveals that Richard's conception of what love is only involves sex because that is what was emphasized in his family. As somebody that does not want to have sex, he had accepted that he would never know love. One of his friends/frenemies tells him that love can involve so much more than sex. His realization that he was actually capable of love and that he actually felt it is actually a really wonderful scene.
Additionally, I really appreciate the fact that Richard's asexuality is almost a magical power, as he is immune to most love-based enchantments. There's an adorable scene involving disappointed mermaids in the latter half of the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book for its excellent writing, enjoyable story, and positive portrayal of asexuality. Five stars.
July 4, 2026
Briar Niran’s new series is turning out to be one of my personal favourites for this year and I’m so glad to have started this epic journey to save a Kingdom with pining Knight and his long-time love, the King.
‘The Sun King's Noon’ is the immediate continuation of the first one: Ardenia is under threat and Richard races to find allies for a coming war where politics and emotions collide. By his side is the ever-steadfast Kaelen, the knight who first starts off stars-in-his-eyes infatuated with his king, then falls properly and deeply in love with him. But Richard can’t seem to return the sentiment fully, eventually receiving a much-needed schooling in matters of the heart from, of all people, a self-serving bandit.
There’s too much in this world that’s going on to plot a linear line through the entire narrative arc, but I’m absolutely engrossed in it and dare I say, obsessed with the slow-burn pining between Kaelen and Richard. A large part of the entire story’s emotional core isn’t entirely monopolised by Richard/Kaelen however, but also encompass the diverse kinds of bonds and familial ties that Niran so painstaking writes about found in the large cast of supporting characters.
If there’s anything I’d moan about, it’s the lack of the dual POVs that I miss. Seeing things solely through Richard’s eyes is akin to reading about a 35-year old man with a 14-year-old soul: one who carries the heavy burden of the Kingship but somehow retains the naïveté of a prepubescent boy who can’t really parse out the differences between the romantic and the platonic.
That said, I loved the jealousy. I loved the obliviousness and the growing feelings. I loved the bloodthirsty side that Richard shows when his closest and dearest are threatened. Most of all, I loved the growth and the slow recognition that Kaelen is coming to mean much more to him than just his knight protector. Still, it ends on a brutal cliffhanger, a reminder that things can and will get worse before it gets better.
*ARC by the author via Netgalley
‘The Sun King's Noon’ is the immediate continuation of the first one: Ardenia is under threat and Richard races to find allies for a coming war where politics and emotions collide. By his side is the ever-steadfast Kaelen, the knight who first starts off stars-in-his-eyes infatuated with his king, then falls properly and deeply in love with him. But Richard can’t seem to return the sentiment fully, eventually receiving a much-needed schooling in matters of the heart from, of all people, a self-serving bandit.
There’s too much in this world that’s going on to plot a linear line through the entire narrative arc, but I’m absolutely engrossed in it and dare I say, obsessed with the slow-burn pining between Kaelen and Richard. A large part of the entire story’s emotional core isn’t entirely monopolised by Richard/Kaelen however, but also encompass the diverse kinds of bonds and familial ties that Niran so painstaking writes about found in the large cast of supporting characters.
If there’s anything I’d moan about, it’s the lack of the dual POVs that I miss. Seeing things solely through Richard’s eyes is akin to reading about a 35-year old man with a 14-year-old soul: one who carries the heavy burden of the Kingship but somehow retains the naïveté of a prepubescent boy who can’t really parse out the differences between the romantic and the platonic.
That said, I loved the jealousy. I loved the obliviousness and the growing feelings. I loved the bloodthirsty side that Richard shows when his closest and dearest are threatened. Most of all, I loved the growth and the slow recognition that Kaelen is coming to mean much more to him than just his knight protector. Still, it ends on a brutal cliffhanger, a reminder that things can and will get worse before it gets better.
*ARC by the author via Netgalley
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