Black Sun

"an absolute FAVORITE book wow. the worldbuilding and cultural significance is incredible and I can't think of anything else like it. vivid characters, pro-indigenous, pro-queer, amazingly crafted. "

"READ THIS BOOK. I feel like that's all that needs to be said, though in case you needed more... Oh my gosh, you absolutely need to read this book! It's a Native American, queer fictional novel that showcases a character who is attracted to multiple genders (and is attuned to the element of water), as well as this warrior type side character whose pronouns are xe and xir. The storyline brings multiple points of view to a main point that keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time; I never thought I would be, but I was rooting for all of them main characters to succeed in their individual endeavors even as it seems like none of them would succeed. I've never read a book like this before, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series. I read the book so quickly that by the end I was ready to drop everything to buy the second book. My only thing to note would be that the world is complex and rich with culture; it's both educational (since it does take aspects from actual tribes) and imaginative. Basically, if you're less familiar with Native American cultures from different tribes, then some of the customs that are taken and applied in this book might be a bit strange to follow along at first. You'll catch on if you continue to read, or reread this book, fairly quickly. (It's the same with any fictional culture really- like Harry Potter or the Chronicles of Narnia.) Seriously- if you need a new addiction, this might be it."

"This one hit me like a bolt out of the blue. Downloaded the audiobook on a whim and it was a wonderful choice. Such a rich world with intriguing factions and characters. After I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. I feel like it’s one of those stories that really has a little something for everybody. The only book that actually gave me the same sense of dread and wonder as the Song of Ice and Fire (game of thrones) series despite how many books are now being marketed as “the next asoiaf”. "

"This book was a slow build but the ending has left me desperate for the sequel! The author really takes her time with world building and character development. It's not the type of book that made me want to constantly pick it up but it was so richly drawn and really starts to pick up speed about halfway through. I love that it's non-euro centric and has a diverse cast of characters, including queer and nonbinary. Cannot wait for the sequel!"

"Loved learning about this culture, especially the politics of Tova. The characters and their goals just make me want to know more about their motivations and experiences. The world is super interesting and it has me wanting to know more in the next book! "

"The story ends with cliffhangers for everyone. Oh wait this is a series. I loved reading about Serapio and Xiala journey to Tova. Didn’t quite think they would fall for each other. Then you have Nara who had to fight for her position and fight for what little power she had. Then ending like what is going to happen next?"

"A wonderfully different approach to fantasy. I loved all the characters and the rich world-building. We need more non-Euro-centric stories like this! "

"9/10! A great blend of drama, magic and a sprinkle of political Armageddon, all in a pre-colonial Americans setting. The name index and map included in the beginning was super helpful to recall relationships throughout the book, but the storylines were distinct enough from each other to prevent confusion. I'm looking forward to Fevered Star."

"Great characters and loved the world she created"

"spectacular world building, beautiful writing… usually I hate fantasy but this was spectacular"