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Cover of The Shadowed Sun by N. K. Jemisin

Book 2 in Dreamblood

The Shadowed Sun

by N. K. Jemisin

528 pages

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The Shadowed Sun by N. K. Jemisin continues the Dreamblood Duology, where gods, assassins, and prophecy collide. In a city under divine rule, secrets, rebellion, and destiny intertwine with deadly consequences.

Dreamblood series tropes

Tagged on the series as a whole, so not every book will feature each one.

About the book

The Shadowed Sun by N. K. Jemisin is the thrilling conclusion to The Dreamblood Duology, building on the political intrigue, mystical power, and moral complexity established in The Killing Moon. Set in the city of Gujaareh, the novel explores the consequences of divine influence, prophecy, and rebellion, as characters grapple with loyalty, justice, and the heavy burden of choice.

The story follows Ehiru, a gifted Dreamcaster, and Shahar, a morally ambiguous agent of change, as they navigate a city teetering on the edge of war. The fragile balance between mortals and gods collapses, forcing characters to confront secrets, betrayals, and personal sacrifices that will determine the fate of their society. Jemisin’s narrative intricately weaves political maneuvering, magical intrigue, and emotional depth to deliver a story that is both epic and intimate.

N. K. Jemisin excels at portraying morally complex characters whose choices carry real consequences. The Shadowed Sun deepens the themes of power, justice, and cultural responsibility, highlighting how ambition, tradition, and destiny collide in unexpected and often tragic ways. The duology’s signature style of blending philosophical reflection with fast-paced narrative continues, rewarding readers with a story rich in tension, strategy, and emotional resonance.

Key fantasy tropes in The Shadowed Sun include political intrigue, gods and mortals, prophecy, assassins, rebellion, and morally grey protagonists. The novel also explores themes of societal control, loyalty, and the consequences of wielding power without oversight, cementing the duology as a sophisticated and compelling exploration of dark fantasy.

Ideal for readers who enjoy immersive worldbuilding, morally complex characters, and high-stakes magical intrigue, The Shadowed Sun delivers a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion to the Dreamblood Duology, solidifying N. K. Jemisin’s reputation as a master of modern fantasy.

Dreamblood reading order

Full reading order
  1. 1 The Killing Moon
  2. 2 The Shadowed Sun You are here

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About The Shadowed Sun

Who wrote The Shadowed Sun?
The Shadowed Sun was written by N. K. Jemisin.
Is The Shadowed Sun part of a series?
Yes. The Shadowed Sun is book 2 in the Dreamblood series. To read the series in order, start with The Killing Moon.
How many pages is The Shadowed Sun?
The Shadowed Sun is 528 pages long.
What books are similar to The Shadowed Sun?
If you enjoyed The Shadowed Sun, readers also recommend Ship of Magic, Jade City, Spark of the Everflame and The City of Brass.

About N. K. Jemisin

N. K. Jemisin is a groundbreaking American author who revolutionised fantasy literature with her award-winning Broken Earth trilogy. Known for innovative narratives, diverse worlds, and unflinching examination of oppression, power, and systemic injustice.

Books, series and tropes by N. K. Jemisin

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