The Evergreen Heir was probably one of my favourites in this series so far (on a tad behind The Rogue Crown), this book has great inclusion, it’s got a wonderful mystery vibe to it, i really liked the general vibe of this book, it fell flat for me because i felt like the main love interest had very little depth, i was so keen to see more of Talhan, i also felt like the grump x sunshine trope was TOO forced and didn’t integrate well but still a great little read! I’d absolutely reccomend this to anyone who’s looking for an inclusive fantasy, esp for those non-binary folk looking for some main character representation!
i’d ideally give this 3.5 stars if that was possible!

I can't get enough of this series. To be honest, every book feels the same, but you get so invested in these characters you don't even care. These are fae fantasy books with great twists, epic battles, cool magic, and romance that makes you swoon. I love how interconnected these books are, and the little sneak peeks we get at previous couples. If you're looking for some one-sit reads, you need to pick up this series. Another great addition!

3.75 stars

I love this series! I was so excited for this couple and could not love them more. I think they are my second favourite couple of the series! This propelled the plot further for the whole series and can not wait for the final books!

A.K Mulford wows again!!! Honestly this entire series is absolutely amazing, book 4 - hits it completely out of the park and I am so excited for what book 5 brings!!! Really really amazing! For any fantasy lover, this is a must read!! And I LOVEEEE how inclusive this read it!! One of the best LGBTQI+ fantasy reads ever!

Neelo is the reluctant heir to the Southern Court. They want nothing more than to bury themselves in their book, even if it means her brew-addicted mother continues to reign. However, this plan slowly begins to unravel when their mother organises a betrothal between themselves and Talhan, Neelo’s childhood friend.
Accompanied by the eager Talhan, Neelo investigates the seeming epidemic of Brew in the Southern Court, in the hope to save not only their Saxbridge but also their mother’s life.
The relationship between Neelo and Tal were somewhat sweet once you got past them pushing him away (wanting to be buried in their books extends further than just them ruling). He is supportive of them in their journey, both in the literal and personal sense, which strengthened their bond and the plot.
The political-and-conflict plot line helped drive the story alongside the development of the character’s relationship and added to intrigue and drama.
I quite liked the Evergreen Heir and felt like it tied in well with the rest of the series, while also leading into the next book – I look forward to what A.K. Mulford comes up with next.
Thank you to A.K. Mulford, Harper Collins and Netgalley for an ARC of the Evergreen Heir.

The Evergreen Heir is a captivating read focused on our nonbinary and neurodivergent protagonist Neelo. Now while this is a great topic, it isn't a whole "personality". Everything we learned about Neelo was simply a fact about them, rather than a plot device. As with the other books in the series, the world is a flawless snapshot of magic and mystery and learning more about this magic system just makes me oh so excited to stay in this universe for as long as I can. The added spice in this book is just enough, like the cherry on top of the cake. Making this the perfect all rounder read for anyone interested in a new magical world.

Why read this?
- Fated Mates
- Found Family
- New Magic System
- Nonbinary MC
- Grumpy x Sunshine.

Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books and Harper Voyager for a Advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This one is available now.

In the fourth instalment of the series we are now taken to the southern court where Neelo is trying to keep their drug addled mother on the throne. There’s threats from outside courts and of course the purple witches and their mysterious magic to avoid.

I have loved Talhan throughout the other three books and I am glad that he got his own story. He was so perfect for Neelo and I really enjoyed how he helped them to see their own worth and the whole growth of their relationship was so cute to read. Neelo was also a great character on their own and they had my heart breaking for them as they slowly let us in.

Outside of the romance and family drama, there wasn’t a lot that got resolved in regards to the larger story across the series though a few more pieces of the puzzle were added. Though, TBH, I was distracted by Neelo and Talhan anyway so I didn’t mind that much.

It was great to see a Non-binary MC and you get used to the different pronouns pretty quickly.
Oh and welcome to Australia, A.K

Thanks to #NetGallery and the publisher #HarperCollins. I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Genre: Romance/Fantasy
Format: Digital
POV: Single
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
Age suggestion: 18+

Thanks to Harper Voyager for giving me my first eARC to review.

This story is a big love letter to anyone who has ever felt ostracised for their differences, and I finished this book feeling seen, heard and embraced.

Neelo, the non-binary, demisexual, POC, neurodivergent (ASD-coded), anxious, anti-social, fae sovereign heir with a hyperfixation for books, must solve the mystery of the increasingly dangerous "brew" (i.e. party drug) strain that is taking control of their hedonistic kingdom and inner court.

With lives on the line and the fate of all Okrith at stake, Neelo teams up with Talhan, her charismatic, popular, renowned warrior, fae Lord, childhood best friend and newly arranged fiancé, to find those responsible before it's too late.

This queer-normative, medieval-esque world is so richly described I felt transported. The descriptions of the (potentially) South Asian/Middle Eastern/South American blended inspirations for the world building were lush and vibrant (especially the food).

However, the bulk of the overall world building for the continent and societies of Okrith definitely take place in earlier books. You really need to read in publication order to get the full story.

Through Neelo, I viscerally experienced their intense reactions to the over-stimulating world and brash society around them. I'd never read a character that embodied "fish out of water" so vividly before. Yet, Neelo's character growth is honestly so satisfying and empowering to read.

This is in part thanks to Talhan's constant, loving (yet never patronising) support and occasional reality checks. His gift for Neelo is one of the most romantic gestures I've ever read! He is now my gold standard fierce cinnamon roll/cheerleader book boyfriend.

However, their beautiful, slowburn romance is the main focus of the book. There were moments where the mystery of the brew plot felt rushed or brushed over, which led to some confusion about how Neelo came to certain conclusions. I would have appreciated other characters questioning Neelo more to get further insights.

This novel does deeply (yet sensitively) discuss some trigger topics: addiction, terminal illness resulting from addiction (secondary character), neurodivergent discrimination/ostracism, difficult parent/child relationships, child neglect, and child carer of drug-addicted parent. Also, mentions of past attempted genocide, slavery, fear of misgendering and sexual promiscuity (court orgies).

The author honestly portrayed the emotional struggles of these difficult situations, yet that made the characters' triumphs all the sweeter. I was so giddy and proud of the main characters, especially Neelo's "aha" moment about their self-worth.

Overall, I enjoyed this story, and would definitely recommend this book and series.

The problem with this book was that it is part of a series; book four to be exact; and yet they still handed out e-arcs. Whilst the story and world building were incredibly engaging - hence the four stars - there were references to events outside of the book that the author assumed you understood, which I did not.
A.K Mulford creates a beautiful world with wonderfully diverse characters, but I wish that I could've read the other books in the series before arriving at this one.

Thank you so much for allowing me to review this title!
I absolutely loved Neelo and Talhan.
I loved how different this story was and how well it fits into the exisiting series!
I hope there are many more to come!

Book four was another masterpiece in the Five Crowns of Okrith series. I was beyond ready for Neelo’s story from their appearances in the previous books and it did not disappoint.

The introverted bookworm that is Neelo just spoke to so many parts of my soul. Their kindness and bravery while struggling with issues of anxiety and neglect were immensely satisfying to read as their character developed and they came to terms with carrying the load of immense responsibilities.

Add to the mix some slow-burn romance, fantastical libraries and treasure hunts, and you have a recipe for a steamy read that could not be put down.

Thanks so much to AK Mulford, @netgalley and @harpervoyageraus for the ARC of this book!

ARC Review of The Evergreen Heir by A.K. Mulford
* * * * *
Another enjoyable read from this author and their series that I came across in preparation to meet this fabulous author at a book expo! So happy I was chosen to receive an ARC for this book and I have taken my time reading this work! Wonderful to see how the author handled certain topics and characters which created a smooth reading process.

With our little bookworm and their impending responsibilities, with mountains of pressure and dislike for what is expected of them, Neelo was a wonderful character to connect with. With some much being thrown their way on top of an arrangement marraige and saving their mother from a decline in health, Neelo was someone I enjoyed following in this context.
Talhan was another character that I am happy I cam across. With the tropes already coming with this book, he was someone that adapted well with me as well as with Neelo. Talhan is patient and wonderful with Neelo even when he is being pushed away.
Their slow-burn/grumpy and sunshine relationship that was blossoming made the read enjoyable on top of the drama and mystery and adventure. With their distrust of their own attaction and feelings to one another, and again, with the expections on their shoulders, it is wonderful how they came out on their own.

Loved the connection from other reads and how I still felt the same energy from the previousl books of the series! I am not one for heavy fantasy reads as I sometimes become lost in them, but now and again I find something that I enjoy and this was definitely one of those series!

The Evergreen Heir is the fourth book in the Five Crowns of Okrith series. We follow Neelo, our non-binary main character, and the heir to the Southern Court. Talhan is our male main character, who is a friend of and is betrothed to Neelo. Neelo is neurodivergent, and (like many of us) has an addiction to reading books, much to their mother's dismay.

Neelo's journey starts with them trying to save their mother and their kingdom from ruin. As we progress through the story, Neelo comes to terms with how you can love your family but you can't always protect them (and you can't always protect your family from themselves). Neelo struggles throughout their journey somewhat, as an introvert who is struggling to communicate their needs and desires. They come to terms with their feelings, and the feeling of having someone that is on their side to rely on. They don't need to do everything themself. I loved the reverse grumpy x sunshine of this relationship and how Talhan breaks through Neelo's strict walls.

I really enjoy how this story integrates the plots from the other books too. References to the other plots, or characters that show up or are mentioned. It is definitely a richer read if you have read the first three.

Also, straight away I felt that Neelo's gender was handled so excellently. I know that AK Mulford is queer, and their handling of the representation in this series has been amazing.

Thank you so much to Harper Collins Australia and AK Mulford for an advanced copy of this one. All opinions are my own. I can't wait for book 5!

Another incredible book by AK Mulford. It is no surprise to me that I rated this book five stars as I flew through the first three books in the series and this series has quickly become one of my absolute favourites. The way the author can so seamlessly create a beautifully inclusive world is so special.

This story follows Neelo who is the heir to the Southern Court. I think a lot of readers can relate to Neelo who always has their head in a book, and is much more of an introvert than many of the characters we have met in the series so far.

Overall I found this to be a beautiful emotional story and I can't wait for further from this author.

Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read this ARC.

The development of the characters and their love story was incredible. Unfortunately I didn’t realise this was part of the series however I was able to read as a stand alone. If you’re a fan of grumpy sunshine, friends to lovers, arranged marriage and non binary mc give this a read.

Such a beautiful story! The love story and the character development were beyond words, so many beautiful and empowering moments. I love the diversity and inclusively that this story brings, it was done exceptionally well. Great book as a stand alone as well as part of a series. This story will stay with me for a long time

The Evergreen Heir is the fourth book in this amazing fantasy series full of the most endearing characters, mystery filled adventures and heart warming romance.

This instalment of our story is set in the Southern Court, with a Queen desperate to pass her throne down to her child so she can enjoy partying with her people. Such a surprising setting when all the courts of Okrith are facing such dangerous times with an evil witch and a dangerous Fae seeking to rule the world.

Having already been introduced to the character of Neelo in the previous books I was very excited to take this journey with them. But I was not ready for how deeply connected I would be to this character. It is a rare treat to find a Non-binary, Neurodivergent bookworm as the main character in a fantasy book. Especially one who finds their people and lives a life on their own terms while still thriving in such a complex world of the royal court without leadership and the looming threat, which has already impacted their neighbouring courts, coming their way.

Neelo ‘accidentally’ becomes betrothed to Talhan, one part of the famous Eagle twins who has always been a kind and loyal friend to them. As an introvert with no interest in relationships, Neelo seeks to push Talhan away at every opportunity.

The intrigue and suspense of the journey so far continues in this book but it is the relationship between Neelo and Talhan and how this supports Neelo’s discovery of self which takes centre stage, and I was completely invested!

AK Mulford expertly gave us the tropes of grumpy-sunshine, push them away, reluctant royal, found family and fated mates, while writing such realistic neuro-affirming, gender diverse and queer characters. An inclusive and all embracing fantasy world.

I highly recommend The Evergreen Heir, the character of Neelo and their relationship with Talhan is everything but even without this shining light, this book keeps the story flowing beautifully.

🌿A.K Mulford - The High Mountain Court Series 🌿

“The gods knew they weren’t going anywhere without a book though”

I LOVED The High Mountain Court series so when I got the opportunity to read the 4th book on E-ARC, of course I jumped at it!!

The Evergreen Heir is the 4th book in The High Mountain Series and comes out on the 13th of June 2023.

This book follows a Non-binary MC, Neelo, as they fight against an arranged marriage to Talhan Catullus (the banter and tension *chefs kiss*). With a kingdom to protect and a love to reject, will Neelo claim both before their kingdom falls.

4 ⭐️ rating
3.5 🌶️

The book is for you if you’re into;

🌿Grumpy sunshine
🌿Amazing world building
🌿Spice
🌿Fae and witches
🌿 Non-binary MC
🌿interconnected stand-alone
🌿Queer rep
🌿 Friends to lovers
🌿Heir to the throne
🌿Arranged marriage

Can’t recommend this book and series anymore! Thank you to @netgalley and @harpervoyagerus for allowing me to read and review this book 🫶🏻

Full review on Goodreads - Link in bio 🖤
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#theevergreenheir #bookstore #bookstagrammers #readers #readersofinstagram #book #ilovebooks #bookreviews #bookrecommendation #fantasy #akmulford #thehighmountaincourt #goodreadswithaview #arc #arcreader
#newrelease #banter

The Evergreen Heir is Cosy-Fantasy vibes all the way.
This book is like being wrapped in your favourite blanket during a storm. It’s comforting to the soul and the relationships are wholesome.

This is the first book I’ve read with a lead non binary character and I’m so glad I got the opportunity.

Initially the first chapter took a moment to settle in to as I readjusted my knowledge on the English language and then after that it was as easy as breathing.
A.K Mulford has done a wonderful job with the writing (as always).

Tal & Neelo are made for each other imo 😍

Also can I just say, I LOVE the name for this book. Honestly the best.

I was gifted a digital copy of this arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thanks NetGalley & A.K Mulford ❤️