📖 Overview
K.D. Edwards is an American fantasy author best known for writing The Tarot Sequence, an urban fantasy series that began with The Last Sun in 2018. The series combines elements of fantasy with queer representation, tarot mythology, and noir sensibilities.
Edwards' work frequently incorporates LGBTQ+ themes and characters while building complex magical systems based on tarot symbolism. His novels are set in New Atlantis, an alternate world where powerful magical houses operate in a society structured around tarot arcana.
Prior to becoming a novelist, Edwards worked in the tech industry for over twenty years. The Tarot Sequence represents his debut series and has garnered attention for its blend of action, political intrigue, and found-family dynamics.
The ongoing series has expanded to include multiple novels and companion novellas, with Edwards maintaining an active engagement in the fantasy publishing community. His work spans both adult and young adult demographics, though his primary audience is adult readers of urban fantasy.
👀 Reviews
Readers praise Edwards' character development and world-building in The Tarot Sequence series, particularly the found family dynamics and LGBTQ+ representation. Many reviews highlight the balance of action, humor, and emotional depth. On Reddit and Twitter, fans often mention the authentic portrayal of queer relationships and trauma recovery.
What readers liked:
- Complex magic system based on tarot
- Fast-paced plotting with noir elements
- Natural integration of LGBTQ+ characters
- Emotional depth of relationships
- Sharp, witty dialogue
What readers disliked:
- Initial worldbuilding can feel overwhelming
- Some plot threads left unresolved between books
- Violence level too intense for some readers
Ratings across platforms:
Goodreads: The Last Sun - 4.3/5 (12,000+ ratings)
Amazon: The Last Sun - 4.6/5 (1,300+ reviews)
StoryGraph: The Last Sun - 4.27/5
Reader quote: "The balance between action and character development is perfect - neither overshadows the other." - Goodreads reviewer
📚 Books by K.D. Edwards
The Last Sun (2018)
First book in The Tarot Sequence series, following Rune Saint John as he navigates New Atlantis, investigating a missing person case while dealing with his traumatic past and his duties as head of a fallen noble house.
The Hanged Man (2019) Second Tarot Sequence novel where Rune takes on the role of protector to a young heir while uncovering conspiracies involving human trafficking and court politics in New Atlantis.
The Hourglass Throne (2022) Third installment in The Tarot Sequence, focusing on Rune's efforts to protect his found family and claim his place among the Arcana while facing an ancient threat to New Atlantis.
The Eidolon Bridge (2024) Fourth book in The Tarot Sequence series, continuing Rune's story as he confronts new challenges in New Atlantis.
The Sunken Mall (2020) A novella set in The Tarot Sequence universe, following Rune and Brand during a supply run that becomes complicated by supernatural threats.
The Hanged Man (2019) Second Tarot Sequence novel where Rune takes on the role of protector to a young heir while uncovering conspiracies involving human trafficking and court politics in New Atlantis.
The Hourglass Throne (2022) Third installment in The Tarot Sequence, focusing on Rune's efforts to protect his found family and claim his place among the Arcana while facing an ancient threat to New Atlantis.
The Eidolon Bridge (2024) Fourth book in The Tarot Sequence series, continuing Rune's story as he confronts new challenges in New Atlantis.
The Sunken Mall (2020) A novella set in The Tarot Sequence universe, following Rune and Brand during a supply run that becomes complicated by supernatural threats.
👥 Similar authors
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C.L. Polk creates fantasy worlds where magic intersects with early 20th century society and includes LGBTQ+ characters in lead roles. The Kingston Cycle series combines political intrigue, magic, and romance in a secondary world setting.
T.J. Klune writes contemporary fantasy stories featuring found family dynamics and queer characters discovering their place in magical worlds. His Green Creek series merges pack dynamics and supernatural elements with character-driven narratives.
Melissa Scott builds complex magical systems within modern urban settings while incorporating LGBTQ+ characters and relationships. Her Point of Dreams series combines detective work with magical worldbuilding and queer representation.
Josh Lanyon produces mystery novels with supernatural elements and gay male protagonists at their center. The Adrien English series combines bookstore ownership, occult elements, and romance with investigation plotlines.