Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on 39 – The Legend of Sun Knight
First Impressions
As a big fan of web novels, I was excited to dive into "39 – The Legend of Sun Knight," the sequel to the popular "Legend of Sun Knight." I went in expecting a similar level of humor and excitement, and while it delivered on some fronts, it also took a different path. This time around, the story shifts its focus to Elaro, the Sun Knight in training, and his relationships with the next generation of Holy Knights. It felt less like a grand adventure and more like a slice-of-life story, which wasn't necessarily a bad thing, just different.
What Works Well
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the dynamic between Elaro and the other young knights. It's a found-family trope done well, with Elaro acting as a big brother figure to the rest of the group. I enjoyed seeing their interactions and how they navigated their responsibilities as knights while also dealing with typical teenage issues. The story also does a good job of balancing the new generation with the old. While the previous cast doesn't appear as often, they are still mentioned and their presence is felt throughout the story. I especially appreciated the glimpses into what happened to Awaitsun and the other members of the 38th generation.
Areas of Concern
While I enjoyed the shift in focus to character relationships, I did find myself missing some of the humor and action that made the original so appealing. The plot felt less epic, and the problems the characters faced were often more mundane. Also, I found it hard to connect with the new generation of knights as much as I did with Grisia and his crew. They simply weren't as unique or memorable.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers might be taken aback by certain developments regarding Grisia's personal life. Specifically, the fact that he has a daughter with Charlotte. Some readers felt that this was out of character and detracted from the original story.
Final Verdict
Overall, "39 – The Legend of Sun Knight" is a decent sequel that offers a different perspective on the world and characters I've come to love. It's not as strong as the original, but it's still an enjoyable read with a focus on friendship, family, and personal growth. If you're a fan of the first novel, I recommend giving this one a try, just be prepared for a shift in tone and focus. I'm hoping the future volumes will expand on the world and characters even more.
