This is the epic adult fantasy I didn’t realize I needed until I started reading it. The character diversity is a breath of fresh air, the themes rich, and the world-building masterfully constructed.  

Black Sun differentiates from other fantasies because of the phenomenal way it navigates the gray areas between good and bad, villain or hero, and friend or foe. The lines are defined, yet blurred in a way that is not confusing, but rather challenges the reader to ponder ethics. Serapio, Xiala, Okoa, and Naranpa along with other characters each represent different parts of what it means to be human and the challenges we face. 

Serapio makes me consider destiny and how unfortunate it is when we are made to believe we are not in control of our own. We all are vessels, but what are we vessels for? Xiala makes me ponder what it means to belong, to have a home, family. In a time where we are witnessing resistance to harmful regimes and civil unrest, Roanhorse’s exploration of  justice, vengeance, and purpose feel especially timely. 

Though I became less invested in Naranpa’s POV until the introduction of her brother Ochi, I found myself still eagerly turning the pages in this medium-paced novel. The timeline seamlessly moves between past and present, the dialogue flows like the melody of one of Xiala’s songs, and the story as rich as the Teek tales she shares with Serapio on their journey. Rebecca Roanhorse’s Black Sun is an epic hard to put down down and one not easily forgotten when completed.