Fate of the Sun King by Nisha J. Tuli

*** Review ***

A series definitely worth reading, Fate of the Sun King by Nisha J. Tuli is an exhilarating third installment in the steamy Artefacts of Ouranos series that plunges deeper into the enchanting fae world. This enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance follows Lor, our courageous heroine, as she navigates the treacherous path of an heir on the run, with both her life and heart at stake.

With the Heart Crown now in her possession, Lor’s journey back to Aphelion is fraught with danger and intrigue. Her goal to unlock her magic and reclaim her family’s legacy is constantly under threat from power-hungry rulers. As Lor battles external enemies, she also grapples with her complex feelings for the Aurora Prince, Nadir. Their push-pull relationship reaches a crucial breaking point, and their eventual acceptance of their Mate bond is a powerful and emotional moment in the series. The love and commitment between Lor and Nadir are profoundly moving, as they are willing to go to epic lengths for each other.

One of the most compelling aspects of this installment is watching Tristan and Willow support Lor in her quest to find her missing power. Despite their harrowing experiences in captivity, their love for each other remains undiminished. Tristan’s transformation into a fierce protector is awe-inspiring, and Willow’s cunning and meticulous nature make her a formidable ally. The siblings’ bond and their resilience make them a force to be reckoned with, even in the face of immense danger.

Lor, Willow, and Tristan uncover significant truths about their ancestors, secrets, and betrayals that have led to their current predicament. With the Sun King relentlessly pursuing Lor and the Aurora King close on their heels, no place feels safe. The introduction of Gabriel, a character who initially seemed irredeemable, adds another layer of complexity to the story. His evolution from a pawn in Atlas’s schemes to a crucial element in the battle for the Sun Court provides a fascinating twist and deepens our understanding of his character.

The story ends on a heartbreaking cliffhanger that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. The final scenes set the stage for an epic showdown between Lor and those who have wronged her. The anticipation of seeing Lor reclaim her throne and seek vengeance for all she has lost is palpable. The cliffhanger, although excruciating, promises a heart-stopping continuation of Lor’s journey.

Despite the cliffhanger, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Fate of the Sun King. Nisha J. Tuli has a remarkable talent for crafting complex characters and intricate relationships. The depth and authenticity she brings to Lor, Willow, and Tristan’s interactions are genuinely touching. Their healing journeys and evolving dynamics tug at the heartstrings, making their struggles and triumphs feel incredibly real.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is Gabriel’s perspective. His grumpy yet lovable demeanor adds a delightful contrast to the story. I am eagerly awaiting more of his story in the next book. Additionally, the representation of bi/gay characters in prominent roles is refreshing and commendable. Their presence is normalized and celebrated, adding richness and diversity to the narrative.

The plot is intricately woven with schemes and secrets, enhancing the depth of the world of Ouranos and its magic systems. The story picks up right where the previous book left off, which contributes to a slower pacing. However, this slower pace allows for a deeper exploration of character dynamics and the intricate plot, making it a satisfying read.

I have mixed feelings about the romance between Lor and Nadir in this book. While their evolving dynamic and inside jokes are delightful, their “grand moment” felt somewhat sudden despite the slow burn buildup. Perhaps this is a result of my craving for more drama, but the moment didn’t fully meet my expectations. Nevertheless, I deeply cherish and adore their relationship.

For those who haven’t started the series yet, I highly recommend beginning with Trial of the Sun Queen. The series is filled with humor, sass, a well-developed magical system, and plenty of action. It features all my favorite tropes, including enemies to lovers, grumpy hot men with mysterious powers, fated mates, trials, and epic confrontations. Nisha J. Tuli has crafted a captivating world and characters that leave readers eagerly awaiting each new installment.

Fate of the Sun King is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance. The emotional depth, intricate plot, and compelling characters make it an unforgettable addition to the Artefacts of Ouranos series. I cannot wait to see how Lor’s journey unfolds in the next book and finally get the resolution this epic tale deserves.