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Sunset at Dawn #3
Romance & Robbery
The heartstopping- and heartbreaking?- conclusion to the Sunset at Dawn trilogy. Coming first to Kindle Vella and then ebook and print.
- GenresFantasy
Unknown Binding
About the author
Jes Drew
78 books552 followersJes Drew is the author of 50+ books including the Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor Series, the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, Love of Legends, and Bound by Death.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. A gremlin that resembles a cat keeps her busy when she's not writing about hard-won happily ever afters.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. A gremlin that resembles a cat keeps her busy when she's not writing about hard-won happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 15, 2026
This let me down slightly I have to say, I expected a bit more out of the general plot of the final book in this series. The romance is why I stayed. They really grew on me, the two of them. I did have a bit of a problem keeping up with all the points of view. But I did like all the different creatures in this book and series in general, like the vampire-like beings for one. Strictly speaking, book three was on the level of book one, so around a 3.5/5⭐️
December 21, 2025
This book was amazing!! I love the character development and the story was beautifully written.
March 16, 2025
This was another winner in the Sunset at Dawn series, it had that element that I enjoyed from each of the previous entries. I always enjoy the way Jes Drew writes and creates these fantasy romances worlds that are so well done. The characters were really well done in this story and I was invested in what was happening to Elspeth and Otello. I enjoyed the elements of King Arthur and Robin Hood and could see the inspiration.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 10, 2026
I am happy about the twist at the end. I really really really wish this series was written better because it had so much amazing potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2025
Despite the wretched typos, I love the way this ended and the author's note that explains how it came about.
Heat index: fade to black.
Profanity meter: none.
Heat index: fade to black.
Profanity meter: none.
July 21, 2026
And here we are. On the final part of this trilogy. You might think, 'Well, yeah. Trilogy means three.' I dare you to look up how many books were in Douglas Adams' increasingly inaccurately named Hitch Hiker's Guide trilogy.
Anyway, let's talk about this book. There's still a lot to be done before the prophecy unfolds. Most importantly, Heinrich being funny:
"Well, I apologize that I am such a failure. It has certainly been more difficult to carry out my responsibilites as a corpse. Who would think the dead would perform so poorly?"
Elspeth and Otello continue on their 'two steps forward, one step back'-romance. Except they now have an empire to take care of. They still keep some secrets that they do not have to, but simultaneously, they are more honest than ever before. I like where their characters have ended up, development-wise. It feels real, it fits the plot and their behaviour still fits their personalities. Overall, they remain well-written characters.
Their huge supporting cast is still around too. Most of them have developed personalities and histories, despire their limited screentime. It brings the world to life, full of actual individuals rather than barely distinguishable side characters. And many of them have their own stories happening alongside the main one, even if we only see snippets of that through someone else's eyes.
Ironically, despite this being the longest installment, I have the least to say about it. Most things I've mentioned in the first two reviews, and the rest are largely spoilers. You've made it this far, I'm not about to spoil the ending for you.
But I will quickly discuss it. The conclusions to these storylines feel natural and well set up, with the other books giving you small hints as to where everything will lead. There's no random plot twist for shock value. It's even more impressive considering the author wasn't sure about the ending up until they wrote it.
All in all, a solid conclusion to a wonderful trilogy. There's some intense religious undertones here and there, but they're not intrusive enough to get their own paragraph here. If you've liked the books so far, you'll like this grand finale. Will it be a happy ending or a bittersweet one? There's only one way to find out…
I'm sorry (I'm really not) but I am going to add a few more of my notes to the bottom here.
'I am a worm and not a man; I am a coward. — Would you still love me— *gunshots*
'"Corpses can't sire children."' — Someone didn't watch Twilight (yes there's books but I can't expect anyone to have read those I'm sorry)
'"I can't just go throw up on it again?"' — Icon
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2025
Well.
I am just going to start this review off with, NOTHING, and I mean nothing, could have prepared me for how this book broke me then built me up, filled me with joy and hope and then broke me again over and over. And that's just commenting on the emotional side of the plot not even all the secrets and plots that unfolded and were unearthed.
I think I need to go lie down and process what I just read.
Now if you are here you have obviously read the previous 2 (and if you haven't I implore you turn around go start at the beginning, but be prepared to read them all in one go cause if you don't, I am just going to warn you now those cliffhangers are a different kind of beast) so I don’t need to convince you to read this book cause you’re all dying to know what happens next.
This novel was the perfect ending to the sunset at dawn trilogy. A bittersweet ending that gave us hope but also made us face the facts that there is grief and loss in the world, fantasy or real.
The struggles both inner and outer of all the different characters tossed my broken heart about, but it slowly healed and showed that healing isn't a miraculous peaceful road but one of trial and pain and sometimes we don't get our way. No matter how hard we argue, scheme, prey or try and work around.
This novel and its siblings within this series are about a beautiful fantasy world completely different to ours with elves and estries, emperors and bandit kings and yet the characters within the novel mirror us all at different stages of our lives perfectly.
The character with a painful past and many more lessons to learn, grapples with unrequited love and anger.
The character who was sheltered and set up on a pedestal watches his so called ‘lesser’ pay the ultimate price
The character who was the ‘lesser’ paying the ultimate price for the person he both envied and loved.
The character scared of love, driven by vengeance prophesied to sit alone without the love of her life and without vengeance to ease her sorrows for the one who took him away.
This novel was extraordinary.
I am just going to start this review off with, NOTHING, and I mean nothing, could have prepared me for how this book broke me then built me up, filled me with joy and hope and then broke me again over and over. And that's just commenting on the emotional side of the plot not even all the secrets and plots that unfolded and were unearthed.
I think I need to go lie down and process what I just read.
Now if you are here you have obviously read the previous 2 (and if you haven't I implore you turn around go start at the beginning, but be prepared to read them all in one go cause if you don't, I am just going to warn you now those cliffhangers are a different kind of beast) so I don’t need to convince you to read this book cause you’re all dying to know what happens next.
This novel was the perfect ending to the sunset at dawn trilogy. A bittersweet ending that gave us hope but also made us face the facts that there is grief and loss in the world, fantasy or real.
The struggles both inner and outer of all the different characters tossed my broken heart about, but it slowly healed and showed that healing isn't a miraculous peaceful road but one of trial and pain and sometimes we don't get our way. No matter how hard we argue, scheme, prey or try and work around.
This novel and its siblings within this series are about a beautiful fantasy world completely different to ours with elves and estries, emperors and bandit kings and yet the characters within the novel mirror us all at different stages of our lives perfectly.
The character with a painful past and many more lessons to learn, grapples with unrequited love and anger.
The character who was sheltered and set up on a pedestal watches his so called ‘lesser’ pay the ultimate price
The character who was the ‘lesser’ paying the ultimate price for the person he both envied and loved.
The character scared of love, driven by vengeance prophesied to sit alone without the love of her life and without vengeance to ease her sorrows for the one who took him away.
This novel was extraordinary.
January 11, 2026
I feel empty
I LOVE this world and I feel like the characters have become part of my every day life. I will miss them and I can't wait to read the other books that are set in the same world about the different side charecters. Also here is a bunch of quotes that I really liked from the book!
“What? You say you love my ambition and cunning, and then act surprised when I am ambitious and cunning?”
“That sounds like a speech from a fairytale.” “It isn’t. Because the princes and princesses from those tales don’t have to try as hard as we do. They don’t have to sacrifice so much. They have fairy godmothers and three wishes to aid them on their journies. We have only each other and those who choose to ally themselves with us.”
"For everything I was willing to sacrifice for this Empire that betrayed me, this is too much. I will have Otello and I will have the future we spoke of just moments ago. If the rest of the world burns, so be it. It never gave me anything but grief, anyway." I loved how real Elspeth's emotions were, gave me chills.
“Specially, I will need a steward who can manage Roden as a safehouse to those who flee injustice until their complaints can be heard and the right laws can be levied. Otello and I have many responsibilities to fulfill and promises to keep, and I do not wish anyone to suffer in the interim.” I love how this book acknowledged the fact that even if the characters got their HEA the world isn't perfect and the people need to be protected until everything is in order.
I LOVE this world and I feel like the characters have become part of my every day life. I will miss them and I can't wait to read the other books that are set in the same world about the different side charecters. Also here is a bunch of quotes that I really liked from the book!
“What? You say you love my ambition and cunning, and then act surprised when I am ambitious and cunning?”
“That sounds like a speech from a fairytale.” “It isn’t. Because the princes and princesses from those tales don’t have to try as hard as we do. They don’t have to sacrifice so much. They have fairy godmothers and three wishes to aid them on their journies. We have only each other and those who choose to ally themselves with us.”
"For everything I was willing to sacrifice for this Empire that betrayed me, this is too much. I will have Otello and I will have the future we spoke of just moments ago. If the rest of the world burns, so be it. It never gave me anything but grief, anyway." I loved how real Elspeth's emotions were, gave me chills.
“Specially, I will need a steward who can manage Roden as a safehouse to those who flee injustice until their complaints can be heard and the right laws can be levied. Otello and I have many responsibilities to fulfill and promises to keep, and I do not wish anyone to suffer in the interim.” I love how this book acknowledged the fact that even if the characters got their HEA the world isn't perfect and the people need to be protected until everything is in order.
May 4, 2026
I have a love-hate relationship with this trilogy. On one hand, the author is a really good writer who knows how to tell an interesting story and keep me engaged. On the other hand … her entire editing team should probably be fired.
To be fair, this third book wasn’t QUITE as bad as the first two, but there were still enough typos and errors throughout the 500+ pages that it started to grate on my nerves a bit toward the end. It’s really a shame, this would easily have been a five-star read if not for the constant errors that kept pulling me out of the story. Dropped it to 3 3/4 at least.
Also, it IS kind of predicable. I could see the ending coming a mile away. From the very first book when the prophecies were told, I figured it would end a certain way and it played out pretty much exactly how I’d predicted. It was still a good ending, just … nothing surprising or twisty about it. Although it did contradict one of the prophecies they’d had in the end there, I think because originally the author had a different ending planned (which I feel like she should have kept as THAT one would have been more of a surprise).
Overall, I did really like the trilogy and I recommend giving it a read, especially if you’re not fussy about consistent typos.
I should also mention that this is a clean trilogy and the MCs are married through most of it. If you’re looking for spice, you probably want to look elsewhere. There is romance, but it’s closed-door.
There are also very strong themes of religion based on Christianity so, again, if that isn’t your thing, you might want to try a different book.
To be fair, this third book wasn’t QUITE as bad as the first two, but there were still enough typos and errors throughout the 500+ pages that it started to grate on my nerves a bit toward the end. It’s really a shame, this would easily have been a five-star read if not for the constant errors that kept pulling me out of the story. Dropped it to 3 3/4 at least.
Also, it IS kind of predicable. I could see the ending coming a mile away. From the very first book when the prophecies were told, I figured it would end a certain way and it played out pretty much exactly how I’d predicted. It was still a good ending, just … nothing surprising or twisty about it. Although it did contradict one of the prophecies they’d had in the end there, I think because originally the author had a different ending planned (which I feel like she should have kept as THAT one would have been more of a surprise).
Overall, I did really like the trilogy and I recommend giving it a read, especially if you’re not fussy about consistent typos.
I should also mention that this is a clean trilogy and the MCs are married through most of it. If you’re looking for spice, you probably want to look elsewhere. There is romance, but it’s closed-door.
There are also very strong themes of religion based on Christianity so, again, if that isn’t your thing, you might want to try a different book.
February 24, 2026
In short: I liked the first 25% of this, and loved the last 10%. While there were occasional good bits in between these, it needed a major overhaul.
The problems: It isn't really edited at all, and frequently uses the wrong name. Adding this to four perspectives - multiple chapters even jumping between all four perspectives with only a paragraph or two before each jump makes it incredibly hard to follow and kills enjoyment. It is also darker than the other books, and the majority of it is depressing as we hear all about the characters thoughts about the impending end battle. I found myself skipping large parts in self defense, only continuing so I could see how it ended.
There is also a lot of unhealthy relationship dynamics here. Let me talk to all the girls out there: just because your heart has feelings for someone, does not mean you should date or marry them. Only IF the person you have feelings for is honourable and worthy and you are ready for marriage should you do so. Guard your hearts.
I am disappointed in 'Romance & Robbery' because I know how much better all of Drew's other works are - even the other early ones.
To conclude:
I had to read this book to conclude the series. The last 10% does this really well and is everything you could ever want.
Despite my issues with this novel, I do highly recommend Drew's other Constantinium novels, and her Howling Twenties and Fated Love series. They are leagues above this.
The problems: It isn't really edited at all, and frequently uses the wrong name. Adding this to four perspectives - multiple chapters even jumping between all four perspectives with only a paragraph or two before each jump makes it incredibly hard to follow and kills enjoyment. It is also darker than the other books, and the majority of it is depressing as we hear all about the characters thoughts about the impending end battle. I found myself skipping large parts in self defense, only continuing so I could see how it ended.
There is also a lot of unhealthy relationship dynamics here. Let me talk to all the girls out there: just because your heart has feelings for someone, does not mean you should date or marry them. Only IF the person you have feelings for is honourable and worthy and you are ready for marriage should you do so. Guard your hearts.
I am disappointed in 'Romance & Robbery' because I know how much better all of Drew's other works are - even the other early ones.
To conclude:
I had to read this book to conclude the series. The last 10% does this really well and is everything you could ever want.
Despite my issues with this novel, I do highly recommend Drew's other Constantinium novels, and her Howling Twenties and Fated Love series. They are leagues above this.
April 9, 2025
This epic fantasy trilogy was stunning in its breadth and scope! I loved the world building and the character growth that I saw! The twists and unexpected turns made the story exciting and interesting while the fallibility of those same characters often frustrated me! The story as a whole was clean and uplifting, but there were some instances where things could have morally gone south in a hurry if the author had chosen to let them. Thank goodness she didn’t! The other thing that could have bothered me(but didn’t, because I read them all together) was that the first two books in the trilogy ended rather abruptly in quite the cliffhangers! I would recommend that you read all three books together as one long novel.
April 16, 2025
Romance & Robbery is the last book in the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, and it definitely did not disappoint! The plot was engaging and left me wanting to keep reading and reading. I really enjoyed the multiple POVs throughout the story and liked how most of the time it was easy to tell whose perspective I was reading from. Elspeth and Otello's romance was to die for, again, and I loved seeing their characters develop over the events of the book. Overall, Romance & Robbery was a fun, beautiful fantasy read full of emotion and hope. I definitely recommend the Sunset at Dawn trilogy to those looking for a small romantasy series that is full of quick banter and shocking plot twists.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 10, 2026
This review is for the entire series.
First, I'm not the intended audience. Once vampire-like creatures are introduced, I generally bail since I'm such an immersive reader and books will invade my dreams. And this trilogy did, unfortunately.
Several POVs. The story was well written. We have a world on the verge of a convergence. A dead world is trying to take over the alive world to attempt to harness the sun. There are several non-alive or undead creatures in this world. I saw the plot twist before Jes apparently lol. Heinrich really drew the short straw. Elspeth and Otello finally figure things out. And alls well that ends well, mostly.
I like other books from Jes. This one wasn't for me.
First, I'm not the intended audience. Once vampire-like creatures are introduced, I generally bail since I'm such an immersive reader and books will invade my dreams. And this trilogy did, unfortunately.
Several POVs. The story was well written. We have a world on the verge of a convergence. A dead world is trying to take over the alive world to attempt to harness the sun. There are several non-alive or undead creatures in this world. I saw the plot twist before Jes apparently lol. Heinrich really drew the short straw. Elspeth and Otello finally figure things out. And alls well that ends well, mostly.
I like other books from Jes. This one wasn't for me.
June 1, 2026
The star-crossed lovers have finally confessed themselves to each other and they are united in purpose, though not in mind - which explains how two nobly-minded would-be champions keep butting heads as they attempt to foil a necromatic plot to destroy the world. What really gets me is the interwoven tale of the misfortunate brother who loses so much to save his world. There is triumph and there is sorrow and there is hope - this is a more challenging book to read than I thought it would be, but it fits and concludes this trilogy well.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2025
So, what can I say about this book that doesn't contain spoilers? Well, this is the third in a series, and you'd better have read the other two.
And, if you've read the other books, you know what the prophecy says Otello has to do. So, be warned, while there is plenty of action, this book becomes one long goodbye. The author really gets the emotion across. I cried.
Anyway, this is a clean read. I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and the opinions stated are my own.
And, if you've read the other books, you know what the prophecy says Otello has to do. So, be warned, while there is plenty of action, this book becomes one long goodbye. The author really gets the emotion across. I cried.
Anyway, this is a clean read. I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and the opinions stated are my own.
May 7, 2025
Romance & Robbery gave us the perfect ending to the Sunset at Dawn series! This trilogy has been one epic moment after the next, and I really enjoy this undertone of Robin Hood and King Arthur elements. The world building is also phenomenal! Elspeth and Otello certainly don't have the most traditional relationship, and given all surrounding it and the importance to the Empire, there are extra difficulties. YAY for the sweet romantic moments too! This is a complete trilogy that I recommend reading in order to fully enjoy!
May 1, 2025
Inconveniently Wed . . .
This is book three of this series, focusing on Elspeth and Otello who married to save the empire. The story line provides the reader with excellent world building that is adequately detailed and imaginative to draw us into a fantastic world unlike any other. The characters are well depicted. And twists and turns will keep the reader invested in the story as this fast-paced, intriguing read races to its eventual conclusion!
This is book three of this series, focusing on Elspeth and Otello who married to save the empire. The story line provides the reader with excellent world building that is adequately detailed and imaginative to draw us into a fantastic world unlike any other. The characters are well depicted. And twists and turns will keep the reader invested in the story as this fast-paced, intriguing read races to its eventual conclusion!
March 14, 2025
This book made me feel very sad, have hope, ripped my hope to shreds, have hope again, feel heartbreak, have hope again and repeat. It fits the rest of the series well. Another wonderful book by a brilliant author. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 28, 2025
I can’t begin to say how much I loved this series. All three books were wonderful, and this one took the cake. I recently needed to get into books that didn’t have a lot of spice and this series was exactly what I needed. I love King Arthur and Robin Hood and them together made this series so good. I want more retellings please!
April 14, 2026
Third in the series. I had an advanced copy which was full of grammatical errors which really spoiled the enjoyment for me. Hopefully they'll be corrected by publication date. Putting the numerous errors to the side, I didn't enjoy this as much as the other two books - I'd have preferred it to be a bit darker.
April 17, 2025
This is a phenomenal fantasy romance!! It absolutely blows my mind. The romance, the banter, the sacrifices, the characters, and so much more.. Wow!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2025
Well done
The final story in the trilogy is well crafted. Even through their losses, the characters keep moving forward. It is a true testament to real life, not everyone has a happy ending.
The final story in the trilogy is well crafted. Even through their losses, the characters keep moving forward. It is a true testament to real life, not everyone has a happy ending.
May 17, 2025
I absolutely adore Otello and Elspeth. Their adventures are page turning. They really have to fight and claw for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2025
This is an elves epic adventure fantasy romance with marriage of convenience. Was a good book. I loved the first book best.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2025
Final book of this interconnected series that needs to be read in order.
Robin Hood vs King Arthur
Their future is under attack
He falls first
She's in denial
Ultimate sacrifice
Lose lose decisions
Robin Hood vs King Arthur
Their future is under attack
He falls first
She's in denial
Ultimate sacrifice
Lose lose decisions
June 8, 2026
The final installment of the Sunset at Dawn trilogy made me ugly cry a few times. I wasn’t sure where the author was going to end us and was super anxious for the characters I came to love.
Elspeth still fights her love for Otello while he embraces the truth of his feelings. I love seeing their relationship blossom and trust grow. They both become strong leaders that better the other through this series. They are truly better together and balance each other very well. I hope we get side stories for Irwin and Heinrich. They deserve them!
The plot is a little less fast than the previous books. World building is still on point and draws you in. I love the elements of faith that are weaved throughout the series.
Overall, loved it. My heart broke a few times, but it was so good. Recommend for upper teens and adults.
Read if you enjoy:
Robin Hood
🗡️ Unique magic
🗡️ Mythical races
🗡️ Enemies to forced allies
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Slow burn
🗡️ Adventure
🗡️ Betrayal
🗡️ Protect the Emperor
Spice: pg13 kisses/longing between a married couple.
Language: none
Violence: fighting, nothing gory or graphic.
** Received this as an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Elspeth still fights her love for Otello while he embraces the truth of his feelings. I love seeing their relationship blossom and trust grow. They both become strong leaders that better the other through this series. They are truly better together and balance each other very well. I hope we get side stories for Irwin and Heinrich. They deserve them!
The plot is a little less fast than the previous books. World building is still on point and draws you in. I love the elements of faith that are weaved throughout the series.
Overall, loved it. My heart broke a few times, but it was so good. Recommend for upper teens and adults.
Read if you enjoy:
Robin Hood
🗡️ Unique magic
🗡️ Mythical races
🗡️ Enemies to forced allies
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Slow burn
🗡️ Adventure
🗡️ Betrayal
🗡️ Protect the Emperor
Spice: pg13 kisses/longing between a married couple.
Language: none
Violence: fighting, nothing gory or graphic.
** Received this as an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Read
March 4, 2025Just brace yourselves for this one. That's all I'm saying.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews