Review: The Evergreen Heir by A.K. Mulford

 

Series: The High Mountain Court #4

From bestselling author and TikTok sensation A.K. Mulford comes the fourth book in the Five Crowns of Okrith fantasy series, following a bookish heir’s fight to save their mother and kingdom when an unexpected romance blossoms. The crown is calling their name, yet can their head bear the weight when passion sets hearts racing? Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Sue Lynn Tan, and Jennifer L Armentrout.

A court of revelry. A bookish heir. An impending marriage. And a dark new power rising in the world…

If allowed, Neelo Emberspear would never leave the library. Reluctant to take the throne despite their mother’s faltering health, the neurodivergent bookworm craves escape from their arranged marriage to charming fae warrior Talhan Catullus. But they know their duty can be put off no longer when their mother, the drug-addled queen, disastrously lights the castle on fire.

Fighting to save their mother’s life and keep her on the throne, Neelo is astonished when bonding over the written word brings them closer than ever to their cavalier, soon-to-be husband. But the non-binary heir’s growing affections may be cut short with witch uprisings threatening to topple the entire continent. 

Can Neelo claim both love and dominion before their court is reduced to ash?

Another wonderful addition to the High Mountain Court series. This time, it's Neelo and Tal's story. Neelo, the non-binary Heir to the Southern court has a lot on their hands.  A mother who is hell bent on smoking herself to death, all the books they want to read, and their desire to not rule in their mother's stead.  Oh... and did I mentioned their betrothed, Talhan? The sexy fae warrior that is not going to take no for an answer. 

This story drives the story arc from the first three books all the while introducing Neelo's plight.  Characters from the previous books come and go, but it's Neelo's story that drives the plot.  They've never wanted their destiny, nor have they ever wanted a relationship. But, their mother has other plans for them.  Add in all the issues from the previous book now infiltrating their way into the southern court.. and you have an engaging, and refreshing story. 

I'll admit that this is my first book with a non-binary main character, but it won't be my last. I can't wait for the next book in the series.