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The Realm of Xanthia #3
The Lord He Must Become
SOME SECRETS CAN NEVER BE SPOKEN.
SOME STORIES HAVE YET TO BE TOLD.
Go deeper into Xanthia with The Lord He Must Become, the epic political fantasy companion prequel within The Realm of Xanthia series.Rionan Thalassic has never known freedom.
Duty shaped him from childhood, forging him into the heir that Xanthia demanded. But when his parents die under mysterious circumstances, grief cracks his carefully crafted composure, and the legacy his father left behind threatens to consume him.
Aulshar Thalassic carried a secret powerful enough to shatter the Realm.
He prayed for an heir, knowing the cost. Rionan would be forced into lordship long before he was ready. All the while, an ancient enemy watched from the shadows.
Lord Rannirr Vanhax has waited centuries for this moment.
His influence coils through Xanthia like smoke. Silent. Patient. Everywhere.
As his long-laid plans take shape and the South falls under his control, the Realm edges towards collapse.
Rionan stands at the centre of a storm he never asked to inherit. If he is to save Xanthia, he must become the Lord he was raised to be.
But if he falters, the Realm will not simply break. It will fall to the one who has waited lifetimes to claim it.
Tropes and Political intrigueReluctant heirFound familyLegacy burdenGrief and becomingHealing arc
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AUTHOR RECOMMENDS READING THIS BOOK AFTER THE DUOLOGY.
For the best reading experience, the following reading order is Tides of XanthiaThe Tempests of XanthiaThe Lord He Must Become
SOME STORIES HAVE YET TO BE TOLD.
Go deeper into Xanthia with The Lord He Must Become, the epic political fantasy companion prequel within The Realm of Xanthia series.Rionan Thalassic has never known freedom.
Duty shaped him from childhood, forging him into the heir that Xanthia demanded. But when his parents die under mysterious circumstances, grief cracks his carefully crafted composure, and the legacy his father left behind threatens to consume him.
Aulshar Thalassic carried a secret powerful enough to shatter the Realm.
He prayed for an heir, knowing the cost. Rionan would be forced into lordship long before he was ready. All the while, an ancient enemy watched from the shadows.
Lord Rannirr Vanhax has waited centuries for this moment.
His influence coils through Xanthia like smoke. Silent. Patient. Everywhere.
As his long-laid plans take shape and the South falls under his control, the Realm edges towards collapse.
Rionan stands at the centre of a storm he never asked to inherit. If he is to save Xanthia, he must become the Lord he was raised to be.
But if he falters, the Realm will not simply break. It will fall to the one who has waited lifetimes to claim it.
Tropes and Political intrigueReluctant heirFound familyLegacy burdenGrief and becomingHealing arc
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AUTHOR RECOMMENDS READING THIS BOOK AFTER THE DUOLOGY.
For the best reading experience, the following reading order is Tides of XanthiaThe Tempests of XanthiaThe Lord He Must Become
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2026
About the author
Evelyn Briar
4 books28 followersEvelyn Briar lives in the southwest of England and grew up immersed in all things fantasy - books, movies, soundtracks, and gaming. She studied English Literature and Art, and remains an avid reader, especially of fantasy, romantasy, romance, and thrillers. When she isn’t writing, Evelyn enjoys strength training, tabletop roleplaying games, and dog walks. She is a mum of two and a small business owner.
Find me on instagram and tiktok: @evelynbriarauthor
Find me on instagram and tiktok: @evelynbriarauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 1, 2026
Some secrets are too dangerous to say out loud. Some stories have been waiting far too long to be told.
The Lord He Must Become takes you right back into the world of Xanthia, in this sweeping prequel that sets the stage for everything that comes after.
Rionan Thalassic has never really known what it means to be free. Duty moulded him from the moment he was small, shaping him into the heir his realm expected. But when his parents die suddenly, shrouded in mystery, all his carefully kept control starts to crack — and the legacy his father left behind feels like it might swallow him whole.
His father Aulshar carried a secret big enough to tear Xanthia apart. He prayed for an heir, even knowing the terrible price that would bring: that Rionan would be forced to take up his lordship long before he was ready. And all the while, something ancient and cruel watched from the dark.
Lord Rannirr Vanhax has waited centuries for this exact moment. His influence spreads through the realm like smoke — quiet, unhurried, and impossible to escape. Now his plans are finally falling into place, the South slips under his grip, and Xanthia teeters on the edge of ruin.
Rionan finds himself right in the middle of a storm he never wanted. To save everything he knows, he has to grow into the leader he was always meant to be. But if he stumbles? The realm won’t just break — it’ll belong to the one who’s waited lifetimes to take it.
Full of sharp political twists, the weight of legacy, and the quiet struggle to turn grief into strength, this is perfect if you love reluctant heirs, found family, and watching someone learn to carry what they once feared.
The Lord He Must Become takes you right back into the world of Xanthia, in this sweeping prequel that sets the stage for everything that comes after.
Rionan Thalassic has never really known what it means to be free. Duty moulded him from the moment he was small, shaping him into the heir his realm expected. But when his parents die suddenly, shrouded in mystery, all his carefully kept control starts to crack — and the legacy his father left behind feels like it might swallow him whole.
His father Aulshar carried a secret big enough to tear Xanthia apart. He prayed for an heir, even knowing the terrible price that would bring: that Rionan would be forced to take up his lordship long before he was ready. And all the while, something ancient and cruel watched from the dark.
Lord Rannirr Vanhax has waited centuries for this exact moment. His influence spreads through the realm like smoke — quiet, unhurried, and impossible to escape. Now his plans are finally falling into place, the South slips under his grip, and Xanthia teeters on the edge of ruin.
Rionan finds himself right in the middle of a storm he never wanted. To save everything he knows, he has to grow into the leader he was always meant to be. But if he stumbles? The realm won’t just break — it’ll belong to the one who’s waited lifetimes to take it.
Full of sharp political twists, the weight of legacy, and the quiet struggle to turn grief into strength, this is perfect if you love reluctant heirs, found family, and watching someone learn to carry what they once feared.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have had the privilege to read not only the first 2 books as an ARC reader, but also the third and final instalment of “the realms of Xanthia” duology - this being the prequel!
This story predates the duology, but it adds so much to the world - it gives you an inside look at Rionans beginnings, how he became the Lord he is today. It was brilliant being able to get the perspective of Rionans parents, and how much they loved their son, how much they wished for him.
Evelyn’s skill to be able to create so much emotion whilst still being able to create a backstory of politics and what was to come is just brilliant.
I have to admit that I did cry, and I won’t apologise for that. As always, another incredible book ♥️
This story predates the duology, but it adds so much to the world - it gives you an inside look at Rionans beginnings, how he became the Lord he is today. It was brilliant being able to get the perspective of Rionans parents, and how much they loved their son, how much they wished for him.
Evelyn’s skill to be able to create so much emotion whilst still being able to create a backstory of politics and what was to come is just brilliant.
I have to admit that I did cry, and I won’t apologise for that. As always, another incredible book ♥️
October 12, 2026
Great Novella about the events that transpired before the Duology takes place. Really helps you understand Rionan’s character as well as how things got to where they did in the books.
It can feel lonely, being moulded into someone.
“You are not broken, Rionan Thalassic,” she whispered. “You are becoming.”
“Go now, Son of the West. Your grief has shaped you. But it must not define you.”
“You think fear makes you weak. It does not. It means you care. It means you will fight harder.”
It can feel lonely, being moulded into someone.
“You are not broken, Rionan Thalassic,” she whispered. “You are becoming.”
“Go now, Son of the West. Your grief has shaped you. But it must not define you.”
“You think fear makes you weak. It does not. It means you care. It means you will fight harder.”
August 24, 2026
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read the ARC as part of the street team!
I would give this book a thousand stars if I could.
How is it possible for such a short book to cause this many feelings? Honestly, I am offended.
The Lord He Must Become takes us back to Rionan's childhood and follows him through his training to become the Lord of Western Xanthia we know from Tides and Tempests. Getting to see the boy behind the man was everything I didn't know I needed, and I absolutely adored getting to know baby Rionan, Thallax and Ulreah. Their bond was such a huge part of what I loved about the duology, so being able to go back to the beginning and watch that relationship develop was genuinely special.
I am, of course, still not over you know what. Evelyn, I have not forgotten. I am a person with a long memory.
Rionan carries enormous expectations and burdens from such a young age, particularly because his father is privy to a prediction from the Augur and pushes him towards becoming the man he will ultimately need to be. Watching him grow under that pressure, while still seeing the child underneath it all, added so much more depth to the Rionan we meet in the duology.
And the parental relationships? The tissues were required. I wasn't expecting this tiny prequel to emotionally assault me quite so thoroughly, but here we are.
The writing was another huge highlight. Evelyn's down-to-earth style makes Xanthia incredibly easy to imagine, while still giving the world-building and character development the space they deserve. For such a short book, it never felt rushed or watered down, but equally never dragged. The pacing was genuinely perfect, and I loved getting a glimpse into the wider structures of Western Xanthia and the world beyond it.
There is also now a small but extremely inconvenient question lodged permanently in my brain: what the hell did Rannirr do to them when they visited the East?
I suspect this will be keeping me awake for the foreseeable future.
I could quite happily keep talking about Rionan, Thallax, Ulreah, Xanthia, the duology, the world-building, the emotional devastation, and approximately seventeen other things I loved about this book, but honestly, I'm running out of words.
Some books are enjoyable.
Some books make you care about their characters.
And then there is Xanthia, which has apparently decided that I am simply going to become emotionally attached to an entire fictional realm and suffer accordingly.
I would give this book a thousand stars if I could.
How is it possible for such a short book to cause this many feelings? Honestly, I am offended.
The Lord He Must Become takes us back to Rionan's childhood and follows him through his training to become the Lord of Western Xanthia we know from Tides and Tempests. Getting to see the boy behind the man was everything I didn't know I needed, and I absolutely adored getting to know baby Rionan, Thallax and Ulreah. Their bond was such a huge part of what I loved about the duology, so being able to go back to the beginning and watch that relationship develop was genuinely special.
I am, of course, still not over you know what. Evelyn, I have not forgotten. I am a person with a long memory.
Rionan carries enormous expectations and burdens from such a young age, particularly because his father is privy to a prediction from the Augur and pushes him towards becoming the man he will ultimately need to be. Watching him grow under that pressure, while still seeing the child underneath it all, added so much more depth to the Rionan we meet in the duology.
And the parental relationships? The tissues were required. I wasn't expecting this tiny prequel to emotionally assault me quite so thoroughly, but here we are.
The writing was another huge highlight. Evelyn's down-to-earth style makes Xanthia incredibly easy to imagine, while still giving the world-building and character development the space they deserve. For such a short book, it never felt rushed or watered down, but equally never dragged. The pacing was genuinely perfect, and I loved getting a glimpse into the wider structures of Western Xanthia and the world beyond it.
There is also now a small but extremely inconvenient question lodged permanently in my brain: what the hell did Rannirr do to them when they visited the East?
I suspect this will be keeping me awake for the foreseeable future.
I could quite happily keep talking about Rionan, Thallax, Ulreah, Xanthia, the duology, the world-building, the emotional devastation, and approximately seventeen other things I loved about this book, but honestly, I'm running out of words.
Some books are enjoyable.
Some books make you care about their characters.
And then there is Xanthia, which has apparently decided that I am simply going to become emotionally attached to an entire fictional realm and suffer accordingly.
October 2, 2026
I have to be honest, and hope that the author doesn't mind me saying this, but I had only read a small part of book 1 before reading this book but that didn't matter to me as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This book is only 144 pages long but it provides the background information needed before book 1 kicks in so you can understand the mindset of the main characters before becoming fully immersed in the main story in The Tides of Xanthia.
I was so immersed in this little book that I felt I was, at times, reading a full fantasy novel.
Why did I give the title "small but mighty"? It is the first book, in a very long time, which made me so emotional I nearly cried. I don't cry when reading books usually, but this one nearly did it. I don't know if it was the way it was written, the emotion throughout the book or empathy with one of the characters when they realise the secret they have kept is coming to fruition, or that it reminded me of a really difficult time in my life too. It depicts the darkest of days and coming out the other side, and that things can go on, you can survive.
I did find myself a little frustrated that time seemed to jump so much in the book but soon realised why that was done. I puzzled over the behaviour of one of the characters but had an "aha!" moment later in the book when their true character came to light.
This book is small but it has everything, evil, power, corruption, politics, magic, courage, emotion and friendship.
I truly believe if you love epic fantasy adventure books you will love this one and if you haven't yet read The Tides of Xanthia and The Tempest of Xanthia, then this will entice you to do that.
This book is only 144 pages long but it provides the background information needed before book 1 kicks in so you can understand the mindset of the main characters before becoming fully immersed in the main story in The Tides of Xanthia.
I was so immersed in this little book that I felt I was, at times, reading a full fantasy novel.
Why did I give the title "small but mighty"? It is the first book, in a very long time, which made me so emotional I nearly cried. I don't cry when reading books usually, but this one nearly did it. I don't know if it was the way it was written, the emotion throughout the book or empathy with one of the characters when they realise the secret they have kept is coming to fruition, or that it reminded me of a really difficult time in my life too. It depicts the darkest of days and coming out the other side, and that things can go on, you can survive.
I did find myself a little frustrated that time seemed to jump so much in the book but soon realised why that was done. I puzzled over the behaviour of one of the characters but had an "aha!" moment later in the book when their true character came to light.
This book is small but it has everything, evil, power, corruption, politics, magic, courage, emotion and friendship.
I truly believe if you love epic fantasy adventure books you will love this one and if you haven't yet read The Tides of Xanthia and The Tempest of Xanthia, then this will entice you to do that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 0🌶️
The perfect prequel that made me love Rionion even more.
After absolutely loving the first two books, this was exactly what I needed. Instead of feeling like an extra story, it added so much depth to Rionion's character and made me appreciate his journey even more.
Getting to witness his childhood, the unwavering love his parents had for him, and the sacrifices they made was heartbreaking in the best way. Watching Rionion experience loss and grief, and seeing how those moments shaped the Lord he would eventually become, made his story feel even more powerful.
I also loved the friendship between Thallax and Ulreah. Their loyalty and the way they stood by Rionion added so much warmth to a story filled with difficult choices and emotional moments.
One thing I really appreciated is that this prequel is flexible. You could honestly read it before the series, after book one, or after book two. Reading it first gives wonderful context for Rionion, reading it after book two answers so many lingering questions, but I personally think saving it until last makes the emotional payoffs hit the hardest.
Overall, this has been such a fantastic series, and this prequel was the perfect finishing touch. If you're invested in Rionion's story, this is an absolute must-read.
Gifted ARC provided by the author. All views and opinions are my own.
The perfect prequel that made me love Rionion even more.
After absolutely loving the first two books, this was exactly what I needed. Instead of feeling like an extra story, it added so much depth to Rionion's character and made me appreciate his journey even more.
Getting to witness his childhood, the unwavering love his parents had for him, and the sacrifices they made was heartbreaking in the best way. Watching Rionion experience loss and grief, and seeing how those moments shaped the Lord he would eventually become, made his story feel even more powerful.
I also loved the friendship between Thallax and Ulreah. Their loyalty and the way they stood by Rionion added so much warmth to a story filled with difficult choices and emotional moments.
One thing I really appreciated is that this prequel is flexible. You could honestly read it before the series, after book one, or after book two. Reading it first gives wonderful context for Rionion, reading it after book two answers so many lingering questions, but I personally think saving it until last makes the emotional payoffs hit the hardest.
Overall, this has been such a fantastic series, and this prequel was the perfect finishing touch. If you're invested in Rionion's story, this is an absolute must-read.
Gifted ARC provided by the author. All views and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Lord He Must Become is an incredibly emotional origin story that completely broke my heart. I felt every single emotion reading this — the grief, the love, the anger, the hope… all of it. I genuinely needed a cuddle when I finished. 😭❤️
I loved getting Rionan’s story and seeing so much more of his dynamic with Thallax. Their relationship added so much depth to the story, and I especially loved getting more of Maryna and Arlon too.
And Ulreah. 😭❤️ I absolutely adore him. That is all I’m saying because I refuse to spoil anything!
Rannirr, on the other hand… I hated him, but I’m pretty sure we’re supposed to, so job well done. 🤣
I also really loved the pacing. So much happens throughout the book, but it never felt rushed or like the story was trying to cram too much in. Everything had room to breathe, which made the emotional moments hit even harder.
There’s no spice, but honestly, it would have felt completely out of place. This isn’t a love story, it’s an origins story, and it works exactly as it should.
The grief in this book felt incredibly real and, at times, painfully relatable. Evelyn has created a story that feels deeply human beneath all the fantasy, and I think that’s what made it hit so hard.
I was very kindly gifted an ARC by the author, and I’m so grateful I got to experience Rionan’s story early.
I loved getting Rionan’s story and seeing so much more of his dynamic with Thallax. Their relationship added so much depth to the story, and I especially loved getting more of Maryna and Arlon too.
And Ulreah. 😭❤️ I absolutely adore him. That is all I’m saying because I refuse to spoil anything!
Rannirr, on the other hand… I hated him, but I’m pretty sure we’re supposed to, so job well done. 🤣
I also really loved the pacing. So much happens throughout the book, but it never felt rushed or like the story was trying to cram too much in. Everything had room to breathe, which made the emotional moments hit even harder.
There’s no spice, but honestly, it would have felt completely out of place. This isn’t a love story, it’s an origins story, and it works exactly as it should.
The grief in this book felt incredibly real and, at times, painfully relatable. Evelyn has created a story that feels deeply human beneath all the fantasy, and I think that’s what made it hit so hard.
I was very kindly gifted an ARC by the author, and I’m so grateful I got to experience Rionan’s story early.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review 4.5⭐️
This was such a lovely little prequel to the series. 🖤
While we'd already learned pieces of Rionan's past throughout the main series, this gave us a much more intimate look at his upbringing, his family and the history of Xanthia.
For such a short read, it was surprisingly packed with emotion. The love of his parents, the grief woven throughout the story and the found family elements were all beautifully done. I especially loved getting that extra context behind the man Rionan eventually becomes and seeing the experiences that shaped him.
It's only around 150 pages, but it still managed to feel meaningful rather than simply being extra information added onto the main story. It genuinely felt like another little piece of Xanthia clicking into place. 🖤
My one tiny complaint... and honestly, this isn't even aimed specifically at this book because I've noticed it EVERYWHERE lately. 😂 Can we please give the phrase “for the first time” and all its relatives, “for the first time in a long time,” “for the first time since...” a tiny holiday? Just a little one? 🙏🏼🤣 Once I started noticing it, I couldn't STOP noticing it.
Overall, a short but emotional addition to the series that gave Rionan's story even more depth. I'm really glad we got this glimpse into his past. 🖤
This was such a lovely little prequel to the series. 🖤
While we'd already learned pieces of Rionan's past throughout the main series, this gave us a much more intimate look at his upbringing, his family and the history of Xanthia.
For such a short read, it was surprisingly packed with emotion. The love of his parents, the grief woven throughout the story and the found family elements were all beautifully done. I especially loved getting that extra context behind the man Rionan eventually becomes and seeing the experiences that shaped him.
It's only around 150 pages, but it still managed to feel meaningful rather than simply being extra information added onto the main story. It genuinely felt like another little piece of Xanthia clicking into place. 🖤
My one tiny complaint... and honestly, this isn't even aimed specifically at this book because I've noticed it EVERYWHERE lately. 😂 Can we please give the phrase “for the first time” and all its relatives, “for the first time in a long time,” “for the first time since...” a tiny holiday? Just a little one? 🙏🏼🤣 Once I started noticing it, I couldn't STOP noticing it.
Overall, a short but emotional addition to the series that gave Rionan's story even more depth. I'm really glad we got this glimpse into his past. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to the author, Evelyn Briar, for providing me with an e-ARC!
All thoughts in this review are my own.
I absolutely loved book one and two (the Tides of Xanthia + the Tempests of Xanthia) of the Realms of Xanthia, so of course I had to read this prequel!
I absolutely love how this prequel actually adds to the original duology. It gives a bit more perspective, not just in Rionan's life, but also in Xanthia itself, Ulreah, Thallax and Benn. And even a bit in Rannirr...
Meeting Rionan's parents who, despite not being in the first two books, have such an impact on the plot, was really nice. To get a bit of their POV of how things went down.. Yep, really liked it.
TThe political intrigue in this prequel was amazing. I could really just feel the tension. You already know what will happen in the future, which makes it all even more tense to read it.
But what I loved most of all... Was how this book deals with grief. Raw, realistic, relatable grief.
I definitely recommend picking up all three books in this (now finished) series! Evelyn did an amazing job and it holds so many different aspects! Touch her and die, found family, war, our realm and the realm of Xanthia, grief, power and its effects... and there's a cute dog.
Thank you to the author, Evelyn Briar, for providing me with an e-ARC!
All thoughts in this review are my own.
I absolutely loved book one and two (the Tides of Xanthia + the Tempests of Xanthia) of the Realms of Xanthia, so of course I had to read this prequel!
I absolutely love how this prequel actually adds to the original duology. It gives a bit more perspective, not just in Rionan's life, but also in Xanthia itself, Ulreah, Thallax and Benn. And even a bit in Rannirr...
Meeting Rionan's parents who, despite not being in the first two books, have such an impact on the plot, was really nice. To get a bit of their POV of how things went down.. Yep, really liked it.
TThe political intrigue in this prequel was amazing. I could really just feel the tension. You already know what will happen in the future, which makes it all even more tense to read it.
But what I loved most of all... Was how this book deals with grief. Raw, realistic, relatable grief.
I definitely recommend picking up all three books in this (now finished) series! Evelyn did an amazing job and it holds so many different aspects! Touch her and die, found family, war, our realm and the realm of Xanthia, grief, power and its effects... and there's a cute dog.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book Review - The Lord He Must Become - Evelyn Briar
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️📚
@evelynbriarauthor
ARC read
This book has trigger warnings so please take a look before reading 🖤
Romantasy
The authors recommended reading order is:
⚡️Tides of Xanthia -Out Now :Paperback, KU & Ebook
⚡️Tempests of Xanthia- Out 20th August
⚡️The Lord He Must Become- Out 1st October
The companion prequel is to be read last
I have read all of the above books and wow what a treat everyone is in for! They are all amazing and I highly recommend them all! ✨️
This book was so interesting and gave so much context and information on the characters back story's and life
It delves further into Rionan, Thallax, Ulreah and also Benn 's ( who I love 😉) backstorys
It was exciting, fast paced and very enjoyable I was sad when I came to the last page🥲 I wanted more!!!!
The story dealt with very emotional topics such as responsibility, bereavement, growth and acceptance of who you are, very sensitively and I was quite emotional and moved reading it at times 🥲
A very immersive and captivating read!
Highly recommend!
💫🤍💫
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️📚
@evelynbriarauthor
ARC read
This book has trigger warnings so please take a look before reading 🖤
Romantasy
The authors recommended reading order is:
⚡️Tides of Xanthia -Out Now :Paperback, KU & Ebook
⚡️Tempests of Xanthia- Out 20th August
⚡️The Lord He Must Become- Out 1st October
The companion prequel is to be read last
I have read all of the above books and wow what a treat everyone is in for! They are all amazing and I highly recommend them all! ✨️
This book was so interesting and gave so much context and information on the characters back story's and life
It delves further into Rionan, Thallax, Ulreah and also Benn 's ( who I love 😉) backstorys
It was exciting, fast paced and very enjoyable I was sad when I came to the last page🥲 I wanted more!!!!
The story dealt with very emotional topics such as responsibility, bereavement, growth and acceptance of who you are, very sensitively and I was quite emotional and moved reading it at times 🥲
A very immersive and captivating read!
Highly recommend!
💫🤍💫
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒓: 𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝑰 𝒂𝒎 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒕𝒐 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒚𝒏 𝑩𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎, 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏.
I definitely recommend you read this after the duology as recommended by the author. It adds so much depth to both Rionan and the world of Xanthia.
Although this is the third book in The Realm of Xanthia series, The Lord He Must Become is more of a prequel to the events that lead to the war. It is essentially a timeline of Rionan’s childhood, his parents and the friendships that helped shape the man he would become.
The Lord He Must Become gives the reader such great insight into what forged Rionan, the training, duty and expectations that shaped him from childhood. We see how he became the Lord he was always destined to be and why his father kept so many secrets, allowing Rionan to develop his powers, character and strength without being influenced by what was to come.
Learning about the Augur’s prophecy and Aulshar’s knowledge of what was coming was heartbreaking. Knowing he could not interfere or even warn those he loved, because doing so could bring chaos to their world, made his story even more poignant.
I enjoyed the deeper insight into Xanthia, its political intrigue and the treachery of Rannirr. Most importantly, this book showed us exactly what shaped Rionan and gave so much more meaning to the Lord he ultimately became.
I definitely recommend you read this after the duology as recommended by the author. It adds so much depth to both Rionan and the world of Xanthia.
Although this is the third book in The Realm of Xanthia series, The Lord He Must Become is more of a prequel to the events that lead to the war. It is essentially a timeline of Rionan’s childhood, his parents and the friendships that helped shape the man he would become.
The Lord He Must Become gives the reader such great insight into what forged Rionan, the training, duty and expectations that shaped him from childhood. We see how he became the Lord he was always destined to be and why his father kept so many secrets, allowing Rionan to develop his powers, character and strength without being influenced by what was to come.
Learning about the Augur’s prophecy and Aulshar’s knowledge of what was coming was heartbreaking. Knowing he could not interfere or even warn those he loved, because doing so could bring chaos to their world, made his story even more poignant.
I enjoyed the deeper insight into Xanthia, its political intrigue and the treachery of Rannirr. Most importantly, this book showed us exactly what shaped Rionan and gave so much more meaning to the Lord he ultimately became.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received from the author.
I discovered and met Evelyn Briar when she was a guest author at Bad Girl Books in Oxford over the summer, where I read her list of tropes for her Xanthia duology and said “that’s a bit of me”. After devouring both “Tides” and “Tempests”, it was a no-brainer that “The Lord He Must Become” would be next on my list to read.
Rionan very quickly became a favourite character during the duology. “The Lord He Must Become” explores his backstory right until the start of “Tides”, and does so perfectly. It wonderfully fleshes out his history - relationships, friendships, traumas, experiences - and provides a rounded view of a character who is ultimately very different from how he appears in the duology. The wider world of Xanthia is beautifully and vividly explored, and I truly find myself itching for more.
The author’s side-step from romantasy to this pure fantasy novella feels like the perfect addition (but hopefully not completion) to the world of Xanthia and Rionan Thalassic. Thank you, Evelyn, for both writing this prequel and offering me the chance to read it. I am hungrily waiting for more!
I discovered and met Evelyn Briar when she was a guest author at Bad Girl Books in Oxford over the summer, where I read her list of tropes for her Xanthia duology and said “that’s a bit of me”. After devouring both “Tides” and “Tempests”, it was a no-brainer that “The Lord He Must Become” would be next on my list to read.
Rionan very quickly became a favourite character during the duology. “The Lord He Must Become” explores his backstory right until the start of “Tides”, and does so perfectly. It wonderfully fleshes out his history - relationships, friendships, traumas, experiences - and provides a rounded view of a character who is ultimately very different from how he appears in the duology. The wider world of Xanthia is beautifully and vividly explored, and I truly find myself itching for more.
The author’s side-step from romantasy to this pure fantasy novella feels like the perfect addition (but hopefully not completion) to the world of Xanthia and Rionan Thalassic. Thank you, Evelyn, for both writing this prequel and offering me the chance to read it. I am hungrily waiting for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Prequal to the incredible The Reign of Xanthia series.
In this novella, we learn about Rionans beginnings. From his parents, his birth and ending where Book 1 begins.
I really loved learning about his parents, they were the perfect couple, what happened after was heartbreaking, I cried more than once throughout this book, mostly sad tears but some happy ones too.
Delving into how the war in Xanthia began, I found the story easy to follow and really liked to read the friendships that Rionan had and kept, and how they evolved. It was also sad at moments having read Books 1&2 and knowing what happens to read the characters as they were.
I am so grateful to have been chosen to alpa read this book, as always Evelyn has wrote a beautiful story, a perfect start to the series, which I recommend reading first, as if like me you are an emotional sort, it will have you crying knowing how bittersweet it is.
In this novella, we learn about Rionans beginnings. From his parents, his birth and ending where Book 1 begins.
I really loved learning about his parents, they were the perfect couple, what happened after was heartbreaking, I cried more than once throughout this book, mostly sad tears but some happy ones too.
Delving into how the war in Xanthia began, I found the story easy to follow and really liked to read the friendships that Rionan had and kept, and how they evolved. It was also sad at moments having read Books 1&2 and knowing what happens to read the characters as they were.
I am so grateful to have been chosen to alpa read this book, as always Evelyn has wrote a beautiful story, a perfect start to the series, which I recommend reading first, as if like me you are an emotional sort, it will have you crying knowing how bittersweet it is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book from the author as an ARC read. All words and thoughts are my own.
I’m not a huge fan of prequels that come after a book/film, BUT, I loved this book. Even more than the duology. It flowed so well and gave an understanding that I feel was needed.
It gave us such an intense and insightful look into life before Rionan, with his parents, Aulshar & Rallicia Thalassic.
The toils and tribulations of knowing something you can never speak of. Even knowing what the outcome is likely to be. What a burden to bare for Aulshar.
Seeing Rionan grow from a young scholar to a wonderful Lord, the pain and agony of going through things alone. It was all beautifully written.
Thallax & Ulreah are the absolute dream team. They’re with, charming and understanding. Giving their friend, and Lord, compassion, a boot up the bum, and companionship when needed.
I think I want me a Elgon too!
I’m not a huge fan of prequels that come after a book/film, BUT, I loved this book. Even more than the duology. It flowed so well and gave an understanding that I feel was needed.
It gave us such an intense and insightful look into life before Rionan, with his parents, Aulshar & Rallicia Thalassic.
The toils and tribulations of knowing something you can never speak of. Even knowing what the outcome is likely to be. What a burden to bare for Aulshar.
Seeing Rionan grow from a young scholar to a wonderful Lord, the pain and agony of going through things alone. It was all beautifully written.
Thallax & Ulreah are the absolute dream team. They’re with, charming and understanding. Giving their friend, and Lord, compassion, a boot up the bum, and companionship when needed.
I think I want me a Elgon too!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️ (rounded up)
The Lord He Must Become is an insightful and bittersweet epic political fantasy prequel set before the events of The Realm of Xanthia duology. Intended to be read third, this book offers a deeper look into the history of Xanthia and the events that shaped the personalities, relationships and motives of the characters we know and love!
Evelyn packed quite an emotional punch with this novella, I could feel my heart breaking from the first chapter. From the information given in the duology I knew what was to come, however knowing and actually being immersed in the story while those events happened broke me a few times and I did cry at some chapters!
A highly recommended read for anyone who has finished both Tides and Tempests !
Thank you Evelyn for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC early ❤️
The Lord He Must Become is an insightful and bittersweet epic political fantasy prequel set before the events of The Realm of Xanthia duology. Intended to be read third, this book offers a deeper look into the history of Xanthia and the events that shaped the personalities, relationships and motives of the characters we know and love!
Evelyn packed quite an emotional punch with this novella, I could feel my heart breaking from the first chapter. From the information given in the duology I knew what was to come, however knowing and actually being immersed in the story while those events happened broke me a few times and I did cry at some chapters!
A highly recommended read for anyone who has finished both Tides and Tempests !
Thank you Evelyn for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC early ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received ARC as part of Street Team by the author.
The Lord He Must Become is a novella which focuses of the events that took place before the first book from Rionan's point of view.
This story focuses on childhood joys, grief, friendship, betrayal and family bonds. I enjoyed being able to explore more of Rionan's character and see how he became the character we meet in the first book, Tides of Xanthia. The relationship between him and his parents, especially his father is wholesome, warm and loving and gives good insight into why he is so devoted to his friends, realm and family in the books.
If you enjoyed reading Tides of Xanthia (and it's upcoming sequel, Tempests of Xanthia, which is released 20th August) you will love delving further into the world and getting to know the characters in more depth.
Thank you again to Evelyn Briar for the opportunity to read this novella?
The Lord He Must Become is a novella which focuses of the events that took place before the first book from Rionan's point of view.
This story focuses on childhood joys, grief, friendship, betrayal and family bonds. I enjoyed being able to explore more of Rionan's character and see how he became the character we meet in the first book, Tides of Xanthia. The relationship between him and his parents, especially his father is wholesome, warm and loving and gives good insight into why he is so devoted to his friends, realm and family in the books.
If you enjoyed reading Tides of Xanthia (and it's upcoming sequel, Tempests of Xanthia, which is released 20th August) you will love delving further into the world and getting to know the characters in more depth.
Thank you again to Evelyn Briar for the opportunity to read this novella?
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off, a huge thank you to the wonderful author for the ARC! I honestly needed this novella so much. As a fantastic prequel, it delivered the exact character backstory and deeper connections that I felt were missing from Tides and Tempests.
What truly elevates it, though, is the exquisite handling of grief, loss, and depression, which makes the emotional landscape so deeply immersive. It feels all the more powerful knowing this acts as a real-life reimagining while the author processes things themselves.
My appreciation for this world knows no bounds; the elements of cunning, chivalry, found family, and pure comfort are simply top tier. The writing is so accessible, and when you combine that with the rich setting and characters, it becomes an effortlessly bingeable experience. I am afraid I am going to need a lot more of this!
What truly elevates it, though, is the exquisite handling of grief, loss, and depression, which makes the emotional landscape so deeply immersive. It feels all the more powerful knowing this acts as a real-life reimagining while the author processes things themselves.
My appreciation for this world knows no bounds; the elements of cunning, chivalry, found family, and pure comfort are simply top tier. The writing is so accessible, and when you combine that with the rich setting and characters, it becomes an effortlessly bingeable experience. I am afraid I am going to need a lot more of this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having finished the duology, I feel this is such an important way to bring a further insight into Rionan’s early life, and being able to meet his parents was a beautiful thing.
Listening to the words of the Augur to Aulshar and how he had to continue through life keeping the words to himself, yet knowing his fate was hard. This felt a perfect wrap up of the duology.
The journey through grief and not allowing it to overcome Rionan felt raw and real and many can relate to this in some way shape or form. It also shows that having a support system around can help massively, especially friends with pure intentions.
I am so glad that we had a return of Ulreah and his words of wisdom, Thallax equally being an incredible character.
Listening to the words of the Augur to Aulshar and how he had to continue through life keeping the words to himself, yet knowing his fate was hard. This felt a perfect wrap up of the duology.
The journey through grief and not allowing it to overcome Rionan felt raw and real and many can relate to this in some way shape or form. It also shows that having a support system around can help massively, especially friends with pure intentions.
I am so glad that we had a return of Ulreah and his words of wisdom, Thallax equally being an incredible character.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a great insight into what happens in Xanthia before Rionan ends up in the human world and meets Alianna.
We find out what happens with his parents, and The Augur’s prophecy of what must become!
It was nice to read about Rionan growing up, and making friends with Thallax and Ulreah. I enjoyed reading about their friendship.
The book has sad elements that I already knew prior to reading the prequel because of reading the duology but it didn’t make it any less sad. Evelyn really knows how to write about grief and loss.
I was very happy to see The Augur make an appearance a few times because she is a fave character of mine!
It was wonderful to be back in the world of Xanthia, even for a short time.
This was an ARC that I was kindly gifted by the author, for an honest review.
We find out what happens with his parents, and The Augur’s prophecy of what must become!
It was nice to read about Rionan growing up, and making friends with Thallax and Ulreah. I enjoyed reading about their friendship.
The book has sad elements that I already knew prior to reading the prequel because of reading the duology but it didn’t make it any less sad. Evelyn really knows how to write about grief and loss.
I was very happy to see The Augur make an appearance a few times because she is a fave character of mine!
It was wonderful to be back in the world of Xanthia, even for a short time.
This was an ARC that I was kindly gifted by the author, for an honest review.
October 1, 2026
I am NOT OKAY after this book. 😭
Rannirr is honestly one of the most evil, twisted characters I’ve come across. Every time I thought surely he couldn’t get any worse… HE DID. 😩 The level of cruelty and the things he was willing to do had me absolutely raging at my book.
And then Rionans parents’ death… 💔 That scene genuinely broke me. It was so upsetting and emotional, especially knowing what it meant for Ronan and everything he was forced to carry afterwards. I wanted to reach through the pages and protect him. 😭
This story really knows how to put its characters through absolute HELL, and I was emotionally destroyed right alongside them.
Rannirr is honestly one of the most evil, twisted characters I’ve come across. Every time I thought surely he couldn’t get any worse… HE DID. 😩 The level of cruelty and the things he was willing to do had me absolutely raging at my book.
And then Rionans parents’ death… 💔 That scene genuinely broke me. It was so upsetting and emotional, especially knowing what it meant for Ronan and everything he was forced to carry afterwards. I wanted to reach through the pages and protect him. 😭
This story really knows how to put its characters through absolute HELL, and I was emotionally destroyed right alongside them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I recieved this Novella as an advance ARC copy
This was a great prequel for those interested in Rionan's background and what shaped him into the person he was.
This was a pre before The Tides Of Xanthia and leads you up until what happens at the start of the first book.
It was really good to get the insight in with his parents and what happened, plus how he ended up forming such a tight bond with his friends. And how some of the other characters came to be in the books and what they represented to him.
This was a great prequel for those interested in Rionan's background and what shaped him into the person he was.
This was a pre before The Tides Of Xanthia and leads you up until what happens at the start of the first book.
It was really good to get the insight in with his parents and what happened, plus how he ended up forming such a tight bond with his friends. And how some of the other characters came to be in the books and what they represented to him.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you enjoyed the duology within this series then you will enjoy this book, which adds extra character depth, lore, and information about the events that take place before the civil war in Tides of Xanthia. A lot of this is centred around Rionan, his family, and his development into the character we meet in the duology.
Unlike the other two books, this one does not contain romance or spice.
Fast paced and focused on character development, as with books one and two.
A great reading option for those who would like more understanding, further worldbuilding, more Ulreah, Benn, and Thallax. If you do not read this then it will not effect your enjoyment of the duology itself, which is intended to be read before this novella.
Unlike the other two books, this one does not contain romance or spice.
Fast paced and focused on character development, as with books one and two.
A great reading option for those who would like more understanding, further worldbuilding, more Ulreah, Benn, and Thallax. If you do not read this then it will not effect your enjoyment of the duology itself, which is intended to be read before this novella.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a short novella spanning the centuries before the events of Tox 1&2. As in the other books the world building is natural but the scope of this book allows a deeper dive in to the realm of Xanthia and specifically Rionan's life ad history.
We learn more of his motivations, the events that shape his personality and actions and the events that acted as a catalyst for the main action in the original duology.
This is a step away from the romantasy genre but if you loved the original 2 books then you'll devour this prequel.
We learn more of his motivations, the events that shape his personality and actions and the events that acted as a catalyst for the main action in the original duology.
This is a step away from the romantasy genre but if you loved the original 2 books then you'll devour this prequel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ohhh I needed this book! I loved it, from start to finish. In fact I loved the whole series, but this novella hit me hard. I fell right into it from chapter 1 and was hooked. It covers some emotional journies that most will go through at times in their lives, and it was done in such a touching way, hitting home and leaving its mark. I needed this back story of Rionan and his past before he found himself in the human realm in book 1. And of course we needed more of Ulreah Stormbringer 😊
Well done Evelyn! What you have written will stay with me for a long time.
Well done Evelyn! What you have written will stay with me for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved going back to the roots of Rionan! This story explores how Rionan becomes a Lord within the Realms of Xanthia.
The plot is extremely well written with such indepth detail throughout. This is a prequel for the duology The Realms of Xanthia and recommended reading after the first two.
I found it so interesting how the world building happened. With elements of grief and heartache.... my heart dropped and tears fell after reading the acknowledgements.
Thank you so much for the read ♥️
The plot is extremely well written with such indepth detail throughout. This is a prequel for the duology The Realms of Xanthia and recommended reading after the first two.
I found it so interesting how the world building happened. With elements of grief and heartache.... my heart dropped and tears fell after reading the acknowledgements.
Thank you so much for the read ♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
'Your grief has shaped you, but it must not define you.'
This was such a beautiful novella. Getting a little (or a lot!) insight into Rionan's life leading up to the tides of xanthia was exactly what I needed! Why can't more series do this? It was emotional and heartbreaking yet beautiful and amazing all wrapped into one. Evelyn's writing just captivates me. I don't know what she puts into those pages but her words draw me in. I am so glad I found these books 🫶🏼thank you for having me as an ARC reader!
4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
This was such a beautiful novella. Getting a little (or a lot!) insight into Rionan's life leading up to the tides of xanthia was exactly what I needed! Why can't more series do this? It was emotional and heartbreaking yet beautiful and amazing all wrapped into one. Evelyn's writing just captivates me. I don't know what she puts into those pages but her words draw me in. I am so glad I found these books 🫶🏼thank you for having me as an ARC reader!
4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dive into the backstory of how Rionan came to be the Lord of Xanthia. You get to learn about his mother and father. The sacrifices they made for him, and the lessons they taught.
You learn about his friends and how they support him.
There’s heartbreak, romance, and just an endearing feel of togetherness with the characters.
All in all this was a great novella on the background of characters you meet in the other books.
You learn about his friends and how they support him.
There’s heartbreak, romance, and just an endearing feel of togetherness with the characters.
All in all this was a great novella on the background of characters you meet in the other books.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The way this prequel captured the fear and emotion in grief is beautiful.
From the fear of dying and leaving too soon, to the death itself and the pain it leaves.
We already saw the impact Rionan’s upbringing had on him on the first 2 books in this series (both amazing!!).
But it felt different to read it and to fully understand why the events leading up to the war took place.
Beautiful and emotional story and a lovely prequel to follow on from the first 2 books!
From the fear of dying and leaving too soon, to the death itself and the pain it leaves.
We already saw the impact Rionan’s upbringing had on him on the first 2 books in this series (both amazing!!).
But it felt different to read it and to fully understand why the events leading up to the war took place.
Beautiful and emotional story and a lovely prequel to follow on from the first 2 books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A nice prequel to the Tides of Xanthia duology.
You get to understand Rionan's childhood and how he grew up to be the man that he is and how and from whom he learnt his core values.
Loving the friendship with Thallax and Ulreah, adding an extra layer to the found family element built into the story.
This leads perfectly into book 1. Can be read before the 1st book but if you want to jump right in the story, pick it up after you've read the duology 📚
You get to understand Rionan's childhood and how he grew up to be the man that he is and how and from whom he learnt his core values.
Loving the friendship with Thallax and Ulreah, adding an extra layer to the found family element built into the story.
This leads perfectly into book 1. Can be read before the 1st book but if you want to jump right in the story, pick it up after you've read the duology 📚
October 1, 2026
It's amazing!
Grief can be debilitating, and it never truly leaves us. However we can mould it into a life force and strength and keep going in memory of those who we have loved and lost.
The Lord He Must Become for me is the perfect portrayal of turning that loss into power. It's one of the hardest things anyone will ever have to do. I'd give it more than 5 stars but I'd run out of room.
I can't wait for what comes next from Evelyn!
Grief can be debilitating, and it never truly leaves us. However we can mould it into a life force and strength and keep going in memory of those who we have loved and lost.
The Lord He Must Become for me is the perfect portrayal of turning that loss into power. It's one of the hardest things anyone will ever have to do. I'd give it more than 5 stars but I'd run out of room.
I can't wait for what comes next from Evelyn!
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