The Kingsmen Chronicles: your questions answered
What the series is about, who it's for, the tropes you'll find, and where to start. Everything you need to decide if this is your next epic fantasy.
What is the Kingsmen Chronicles about?
The Kingsmen Chronicles is a complete three-book dark epic fantasy series by Jean Lowe Carlson. Ten years ago, the Kingsmen, the kingdom of Alrou-Mendera's elite warriors, were summoned to re-swear their oaths to the king and were never seen again. Now the Kingsman twins Elohl and Olea den'Alrahel uncover the secret cabal that controls the throne, and fight to protect their young queen as war spreads across the continent.
It is a saga of treachery, war and magic that champions hope against darkness and love despite loss.
Who is the Kingsmen Chronicles for?
It's for adult readers of epic fantasy who want a vast, layered world, political intrigue, huge battles and characters with real depth. If you love big ensemble casts told from multiple points of view, morally grey heroes and villains, and the bond between siblings and brothers-in-arms, this series is for you.
Readers often compare it to George R.R. Martin, Robert Jordan, Brandon Sanderson, Patrick Rothfuss and Joe Abercrombie. It's also a strong fit if you want a finished series you can read straight through.
Is the series complete?
Yes. All three books are published, so you can read from the first page to the final battle without waiting.
What is the reading order?
- Blackmark (Book 1)
- Bloodmark (Book 2)
- Goldenmark (Book 3)
Optional: Crimson Spring, a free prequel novella set one year before Blackmark. After the trilogy, read the Khehemni Chronicles. Both series are part of the Key of Fire Saga. See the Start Here page for every book in order.
What tropes will I find in the Kingsmen Chronicles?
- A legendary brotherhood of warriors, betrayed and vanished
- An outcast hero branded a traitor, searching for the truth
- Twin siblings reunited after ten years apart
- A secret cabal controlling the throne
- Political intrigue, court treachery and assassination plots
- Ancient prophecy and hidden heritage
- Magic awakening in a world where it was nearly lost
- Found family and loyal comrades
- Enemies forced to become allies
- A nation at war, with huge multi-army battles
- A slow-burn romance thread
- Redemption arcs
What kind of magic is in the series?
The magic is called wyrria: innate gifts that run in family bloodlines and feel personal, part of who a character is rather than a set of rules to learn. When the story opens, magic is rare. Over the trilogy, the high magic of the ancient past begins to return to the world.
Is the Kingsmen Chronicles young adult or adult fantasy?
Adult. The main characters are grown, experienced adults, and the books include war violence, strong language, adult situations and mature themes. It is written for adult readers.
Is there romance in the Kingsmen Chronicles?
Yes, but it isn't the focus. There's a slow-burn romance thread woven through an epic fantasy story driven by war, politics and magic.
What does it feel like to read?
Dark and gritty, but ultimately hopeful. Each chapter follows a different character, and the threads weave together into the final battles. The world is richly detailed, with maps, deep history and many nations, and the emotional stakes are high. Readers often say the books left them emotionally wrung out.
Where can I read or listen to the Kingsmen Chronicles?
- Ebooks: on Amazon Kindle and free to read in Kindle Unlimited.
- Audiobooks: Books 1–3 singly, or the complete audiobook trilogy (77 hours), here on Jean's store and delivered instantly by email through BookFunnel. See the complete trilogy.
- Paperbacks: on Amazon. Signed paperbacks from Jean are coming soon to this store.
Is there a free sample?
Yes. Crimson Spring, a prequel novella set one year before Blackmark, is free when you join Jean's reader list.
What should I read after the Kingsmen Chronicles?
The Khehemni Chronicles, the prequel series in the Key of Fire Saga. It is set about a thousand years earlier, when magic was at the height of its power, and reveals where the ancient war behind the Kingsmen's story began. It is best enjoyed after you finish the trilogy. Start with Dragon of the Desert. Jean is writing Book 2, Wolf of the Resistance, now.
Who is Jean Lowe Carlson?
Jean Lowe Carlson is an Amazon bestselling and award-winning author of epic and adventurous fantasy. She builds worlds of hope: stories that are gripping rides and also explore deep human truths. Learn more on the About page.