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Twilight Divide: A Dark Fantasy Novel
No one knew if it was the wrath of angry gods, the remnants of broken magic, or the aftermath of an ancient war. It didn’t matter anymore.
Aridex burned by day and froze by night. Forever.
Nour was born in this wasteland, where survival is everything. A Duet, she endures both the searing heat and the freezing cold. A skilled hunter and fierce fighter, her brother, Malik, is all that remains of her family. But when an ancient prophecy surfaces, binding Nour to a fate she never wanted, their bond is put to the test. A fate that could either save her people—or destroy them.
Now Nour must face a choice that could cost her everything, including Malik—the only family she has left. But is it a choice she can make?
As monstrous creatures born of the sun and night prowl the wasteland, Nour is torn between following her destined path or forging a new one for herself and her people. All she knows is this: her brother’s life is the only thing worth fighting for, even if it means defying the very order of the desert.
"An exciting post-apocalyptic fantasy adventure!" ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
"Wow, one of the best dystopian/post-apocalyptic/fantasy books I’ve ever read." - Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Crave a dark fantasy adventure with high stakes and a unique world? If you loved the intense survival struggles of Mistborn: The Final Empire and the gritty realism of The Broken Earth Trilogy, then Twilight Divide is for you. This post-apocalyptic world features evolved human species, ancient prophecies, and a fierce protagonist, Nour, fighting for her family's survival in a world unlike any other.
The Desert Shadows Saga is a completed fantasy post-apocalyptic trilogy.
Aridex burned by day and froze by night. Forever.
Nour was born in this wasteland, where survival is everything. A Duet, she endures both the searing heat and the freezing cold. A skilled hunter and fierce fighter, her brother, Malik, is all that remains of her family. But when an ancient prophecy surfaces, binding Nour to a fate she never wanted, their bond is put to the test. A fate that could either save her people—or destroy them.
Now Nour must face a choice that could cost her everything, including Malik—the only family she has left. But is it a choice she can make?
As monstrous creatures born of the sun and night prowl the wasteland, Nour is torn between following her destined path or forging a new one for herself and her people. All she knows is this: her brother’s life is the only thing worth fighting for, even if it means defying the very order of the desert.
"An exciting post-apocalyptic fantasy adventure!" ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
"Wow, one of the best dystopian/post-apocalyptic/fantasy books I’ve ever read." - Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Crave a dark fantasy adventure with high stakes and a unique world? If you loved the intense survival struggles of Mistborn: The Final Empire and the gritty realism of The Broken Earth Trilogy, then Twilight Divide is for you. This post-apocalyptic world features evolved human species, ancient prophecies, and a fierce protagonist, Nour, fighting for her family's survival in a world unlike any other.
The Desert Shadows Saga is a completed fantasy post-apocalyptic trilogy.
456 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2023
172 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Bokstad Horev
21 books100 followersBeware!
I read AND write everything dystopian and post-apocalyptic.
If you are still here.
I am a molecular biologist with a Ph.D. who likes to write down the stories that form in my head. The stories are mainly in the realm of dystopia and science fiction. On a personal level, I love all things space, coffee, travel, and sports.
My family is everything to me.
I'll be thrilled if you would subscribe to my bi-monthly newsletter:
https://www.melaniebokstadhorev.com/s...
Link to pre-order my newest book:
https://www.amazon.com/Female-Breeder...
I read AND write everything dystopian and post-apocalyptic.
If you are still here.
I am a molecular biologist with a Ph.D. who likes to write down the stories that form in my head. The stories are mainly in the realm of dystopia and science fiction. On a personal level, I love all things space, coffee, travel, and sports.
My family is everything to me.
I'll be thrilled if you would subscribe to my bi-monthly newsletter:
https://www.melaniebokstadhorev.com/s...
Link to pre-order my newest book:
https://www.amazon.com/Female-Breeder...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 23, 2023
A gripping story that you’ll find hard to put down!
After an apocalypse destroyed the human population, those remaining divided into two groups;
The Day Blazers who survived the scorching heat of the day and The Night Dwellers who survived the bitter cold nights. However, a third group emerged called The Duets who were a mixed breed of both other groups and could live and survive in either climate unlike the ones they came from as a result.
This story is about two Duets, a sister called Nour and her brother Malik who only have each other after their parents and little brother were killed by The Blazers.
It’s a story of survival, wanting to be with others but wary of trusting them. They have encounters and battles with both groups and after finding other Duets they are attacked by a combined group of both
Blazers and Dwellers, showing an alliance has been made between the two groups who now are united to
destroy the Duets.
Nour learns that she and her brother are special Duets being they are original descendants from the ones who first joined together and have special powers as a result of that union.
When Malik is captured, Nour sets out to find and rescue him but is captured as well. However, an unlikely ally frees them and in their pursuit they make an astonishing discovery and also find their little brother who they thought had died with their parents.
They also encounter another group unknown to them before known as The Outsiders- original humans who
built a facility inside a mountain to escape being changed when the rest of humanity did in forming the original two groups.
There is action, suspense, adventure, betrayal, friendships with unlikely adversaries and finally a feeling of belonging that these siblings haven’t had since their parents were killed.
I throughly enjoyed this story and hope that there is
more to come and enthusiastically recommend this book as one you’ll enjoy! It’s dark because of how humanity has devolved into hunting and killing other human beings and yet in our society murders take place daily so it’s no different from what we see daily in our own lives other than a concerted attack on one specific group!
There’s more to be told as I feel this story isn’t finished and I look forward to reading it!
After an apocalypse destroyed the human population, those remaining divided into two groups;
The Day Blazers who survived the scorching heat of the day and The Night Dwellers who survived the bitter cold nights. However, a third group emerged called The Duets who were a mixed breed of both other groups and could live and survive in either climate unlike the ones they came from as a result.
This story is about two Duets, a sister called Nour and her brother Malik who only have each other after their parents and little brother were killed by The Blazers.
It’s a story of survival, wanting to be with others but wary of trusting them. They have encounters and battles with both groups and after finding other Duets they are attacked by a combined group of both
Blazers and Dwellers, showing an alliance has been made between the two groups who now are united to
destroy the Duets.
Nour learns that she and her brother are special Duets being they are original descendants from the ones who first joined together and have special powers as a result of that union.
When Malik is captured, Nour sets out to find and rescue him but is captured as well. However, an unlikely ally frees them and in their pursuit they make an astonishing discovery and also find their little brother who they thought had died with their parents.
They also encounter another group unknown to them before known as The Outsiders- original humans who
built a facility inside a mountain to escape being changed when the rest of humanity did in forming the original two groups.
There is action, suspense, adventure, betrayal, friendships with unlikely adversaries and finally a feeling of belonging that these siblings haven’t had since their parents were killed.
I throughly enjoyed this story and hope that there is
more to come and enthusiastically recommend this book as one you’ll enjoy! It’s dark because of how humanity has devolved into hunting and killing other human beings and yet in our society murders take place daily so it’s no different from what we see daily in our own lives other than a concerted attack on one specific group!
There’s more to be told as I feel this story isn’t finished and I look forward to reading it!
November 25, 2023
3.75*
Once again i am glad to see a Melanie Bokstad Horev novel. The worlds that have been created in the two i have read so far are quite entertaining.
This dystopian, post-apocalyptic story between different species of human were intriguing. Again a subject that i found pulled me in.
The characters were well developed but tended to linger to long on a emotional level regarding situation/story line. It feels a build up to a second book and this is a great start.
The action sections within this were well put together and nearing the end it did have an element of strength that would suggest progression and more story less back story. So where it will take us who knows. If a second one is written. Which would be great.
My only grip is that i felt no need for the swearing/bad language within this. Not really needed in any book i feel.For a Y.A read i would say best leave it out. If a 13 year old was to read this its a big diff to say 18/19. A younger audience would enjoy the world built here.
Many thanks to the Author and Publisher through Booksirens for a free ARC. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Once again i am glad to see a Melanie Bokstad Horev novel. The worlds that have been created in the two i have read so far are quite entertaining.
This dystopian, post-apocalyptic story between different species of human were intriguing. Again a subject that i found pulled me in.
The characters were well developed but tended to linger to long on a emotional level regarding situation/story line. It feels a build up to a second book and this is a great start.
The action sections within this were well put together and nearing the end it did have an element of strength that would suggest progression and more story less back story. So where it will take us who knows. If a second one is written. Which would be great.
My only grip is that i felt no need for the swearing/bad language within this. Not really needed in any book i feel.For a Y.A read i would say best leave it out. If a 13 year old was to read this its a big diff to say 18/19. A younger audience would enjoy the world built here.
Many thanks to the Author and Publisher through Booksirens for a free ARC. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
March 23, 2024
An exciting post-apocalypic fantasy adventure. Packed full of action, mystery, suspense, danger and quests for survival.
Nour is resilient, strong and powerful, and will do anything to protect her brother Malik. Not only confronted by Blazers and Dwellers - enemies in the night and day, they must continue to survive the harsh living conditions in this dystopian desert world, encountering new allies, friends, and uncovering secrets and unexpected destinies.
This is a gripping and fast paced adventure, can't wait to read the next part.
Nour is resilient, strong and powerful, and will do anything to protect her brother Malik. Not only confronted by Blazers and Dwellers - enemies in the night and day, they must continue to survive the harsh living conditions in this dystopian desert world, encountering new allies, friends, and uncovering secrets and unexpected destinies.
This is a gripping and fast paced adventure, can't wait to read the next part.
November 15, 2023
Excellent! This is a brilliant start to a new & exciting dystopian series! I was completely gripped from the very first chapter, to this thrilling, fast paced, in some parts high tension adventure! I really enjoyed the whole story, there is some level of angst & an angry main character. So if this is not your thing.. I really loved this & can not wait to see what happens in the next part of this amazing book! I do recommend!
November 15, 2023
(I received this copy for the ARC group, so I got to read it early. Eat your hearts out.)
Nourie was a Primordial Nomad. That much she had learned. Her parents had died before they could tell her what that meant, what she meant to the world around her.
In order to have a future, she had to learn about and to accept her past... and survive the present.
Nourie was a Primordial Nomad. That much she had learned. Her parents had died before they could tell her what that meant, what she meant to the world around her.
In order to have a future, she had to learn about and to accept her past... and survive the present.
November 14, 2023
New to this genre but it was very interesting and enjoyed it a lot. Writer did well at putting the story together. Good read.
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 9, 2024
Very entertaining book with good characters and plot and fast paced action. Will have to read the next two books soon that are in the series.
October 22, 2023
Very interesting book that I really enjoyed reading. I found the world that was built for this story to be quite believable. And deadly.
The remnants of the Earth’s human population…forced to evolve to adapt to the changed environments after an event called “The Happening”. The Blazers, forced to hide during the frigid cold of the nights, the Dwellers, forced underground to survive the blazing hot temperatures of the days, and the Duets, those who could survive outside both day and night. Twilight was always the safest part of their days…too warm for the Dwellers to appear and too close to the cold of night for the Blazers to linger.
Forced into hiding, the Duets try to survive attacks by both the Dwellers and Blazers.
We follow two siblings throughout this tale, Nour and Malik. This is their life and death struggle to come to grips with all that is happening. All the trials and tribulations. I am purposely leaving this rather vague so I don’t spoil the great story that is being told to us.
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for a fair review. I highly recommend picking it up and giving it a read. You’ll look forward to reading more of their story as much as I will!!!
The remnants of the Earth’s human population…forced to evolve to adapt to the changed environments after an event called “The Happening”. The Blazers, forced to hide during the frigid cold of the nights, the Dwellers, forced underground to survive the blazing hot temperatures of the days, and the Duets, those who could survive outside both day and night. Twilight was always the safest part of their days…too warm for the Dwellers to appear and too close to the cold of night for the Blazers to linger.
Forced into hiding, the Duets try to survive attacks by both the Dwellers and Blazers.
We follow two siblings throughout this tale, Nour and Malik. This is their life and death struggle to come to grips with all that is happening. All the trials and tribulations. I am purposely leaving this rather vague so I don’t spoil the great story that is being told to us.
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for a fair review. I highly recommend picking it up and giving it a read. You’ll look forward to reading more of their story as much as I will!!!
November 16, 2023
Very intense the way that things are going. Nour and Malik is in some sort of weird situation. Finding shelter and food is becoming difficult to find. Facing these rough conditions can be tough. This is new from the other books I have read by Malanie Bokstad Holev
November 15, 2023
Twilight Divide by Melanie Bokstad Horev unfolds as another captivating addition to her unique repertoire of science fiction narratives. This post-apocalyptic tale introduces readers to Nour and her younger brother, Malik, as they navigate the treacherous extremes of a world defined by scorching days and freezing nights. The narrative pits the siblings against formidable adversaries—the Day Blazers and the Night Dwellers. While they belong to the Duets, who are individuals capable of surviving both day and night.
The plot is punctuated by unexpected twists, showcasing Horev's signature style of injecting excitement into her sci-fi narratives. The author's ability to create a vivid and immersive world is evident, and readers will find themselves transported to the harsh yet compelling environment that Nour and Malik must navigate. The story ends with a cliff hanger, so I am looking forward to continuing the series in the next installment. I enjoyed this book, and would recommended it to those who enjoy science fiction that combines action with thoughtful storytelling.
The plot is punctuated by unexpected twists, showcasing Horev's signature style of injecting excitement into her sci-fi narratives. The author's ability to create a vivid and immersive world is evident, and readers will find themselves transported to the harsh yet compelling environment that Nour and Malik must navigate. The story ends with a cliff hanger, so I am looking forward to continuing the series in the next installment. I enjoyed this book, and would recommended it to those who enjoy science fiction that combines action with thoughtful storytelling.
November 16, 2023
Nour and Malik are Duets. In this world there are three kinds..Duets, Dwellers and Blazers. They have been traveling for years only going to an old crazy lady once in a while. When Nour is injured they return to her for healing. Then they leave. The next time they come she is dead. Now they are traveling again. Only this time Nour is weighed down with the past and how she and her brother are here. But the words that the old woman kept telling Nour repeats in her head. Now she must figure out what is going on and how she is suppose to be a help to anyone.
An interesting story of a dystopian earth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An interesting story of a dystopian earth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2023
Well written with good, characters and storyline. Nour and Malik are orphaned and trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world,full of fear and loss. They constantly find themselves in dangerous situations, but Nour's determination and sacrifice is keeping them alive. Nour and Malik find other duets like them, who take them into their fold, but they are constantly being hunted because of who they are and put everyone in danger. Recommended. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2023
Twilight Divide is a brand-new book by Melanie Bokstad Horev. Twilight Divide grabbed my attention from the first page and never let up. Once I picked up Twilight Divide I was glued to the pages as I loved following Nour and her younger brother, Malik through a dangerous desert. Nour and Malik had to stay hidden from anyone who may be traveling through the desert.
They faced threats from two opposing forces: the Day Blazers, ruthless beings evolved for sunlight, and the Night Dwellers, creatures adapted to darkness. Nour and Malik are Duets and can survive day and night. Duets are very rare.
If they are caught by either the Day Blazers or the Night Dwellers it can be very dangerous for them. Once while they were traveling at night they came upon Night Dwellers who had a Duet tide up and were torching him.
Nour and Malik are all alone in the world as their parents and brother are killed. Nour carries the guilt of her brother’s death on her shoulders as she was supposed to have kept him safe but didn’t. She has made it her life’s mission to keep Malik safe no matter what it may cost her.
Twilight Divide is a great introduction to a new post-apocalyptic world. I would sorely love to read more about this world and of course Nour and Malik as well. I love to see where their journey takes them next.
I enjoyed reading Twilight Divide so much that I would highly recommend it to all dystopian and or post-apocalyptic fans! Grab a copy of Twilight Divide today and join Nour and Malik on their journey!
They faced threats from two opposing forces: the Day Blazers, ruthless beings evolved for sunlight, and the Night Dwellers, creatures adapted to darkness. Nour and Malik are Duets and can survive day and night. Duets are very rare.
If they are caught by either the Day Blazers or the Night Dwellers it can be very dangerous for them. Once while they were traveling at night they came upon Night Dwellers who had a Duet tide up and were torching him.
Nour and Malik are all alone in the world as their parents and brother are killed. Nour carries the guilt of her brother’s death on her shoulders as she was supposed to have kept him safe but didn’t. She has made it her life’s mission to keep Malik safe no matter what it may cost her.
Twilight Divide is a great introduction to a new post-apocalyptic world. I would sorely love to read more about this world and of course Nour and Malik as well. I love to see where their journey takes them next.
I enjoyed reading Twilight Divide so much that I would highly recommend it to all dystopian and or post-apocalyptic fans! Grab a copy of Twilight Divide today and join Nour and Malik on their journey!
November 15, 2023
Hunted down for being different
No time or place is safe. Regardless of skills or plans; regardless of shared lands.
Two groups of humans, diametrically opposed to one another, yet have in common a centuries-old hatred of the Duets. One faction kills by day (the body); the other kills by night (the soul). Both groups, twisted by their ways of life, will stop at nothing to cruelly annihilate the innocent objects of their envy.
Traumatic events are not merely one-offs in our lives. They stay with us, crawling deeper into our psyche and coloring all that we do:
‘…scars tell your story.’
‘That day, a stone had formed where her heart should have been.’
Some sage survival advice:
‘There’s nothing cheerful about death’, so beware those who celebrate atrocities. You could be next…
Fave line (there’s hope for humanity!):
‘Maybe the balance of the world lies in diversity.’
May we find a way to make the desert bloom and to raise fish on land so as to feed the bodies and souls of all. Being true ‘children of the sand’ by living the ancient wisdom found long-buried.
***********************************************
PERSONAL NOTE:
Even though this book was finished prior to the October 7th Massacre and its subsequent aftermath, for me, this tale is an all-too-true accounting of what it is to be an Israeli. When reading, please keep in mind the families of our Fallen and of all Am Yisrael as we struggle for survival due to the spiritual wasteland that is Hamas.
Let this book be the beginning of uniting the world in light.
No time or place is safe. Regardless of skills or plans; regardless of shared lands.
Two groups of humans, diametrically opposed to one another, yet have in common a centuries-old hatred of the Duets. One faction kills by day (the body); the other kills by night (the soul). Both groups, twisted by their ways of life, will stop at nothing to cruelly annihilate the innocent objects of their envy.
Traumatic events are not merely one-offs in our lives. They stay with us, crawling deeper into our psyche and coloring all that we do:
‘…scars tell your story.’
‘That day, a stone had formed where her heart should have been.’
Some sage survival advice:
‘There’s nothing cheerful about death’, so beware those who celebrate atrocities. You could be next…
Fave line (there’s hope for humanity!):
‘Maybe the balance of the world lies in diversity.’
May we find a way to make the desert bloom and to raise fish on land so as to feed the bodies and souls of all. Being true ‘children of the sand’ by living the ancient wisdom found long-buried.
***********************************************
PERSONAL NOTE:
Even though this book was finished prior to the October 7th Massacre and its subsequent aftermath, for me, this tale is an all-too-true accounting of what it is to be an Israeli. When reading, please keep in mind the families of our Fallen and of all Am Yisrael as we struggle for survival due to the spiritual wasteland that is Hamas.
Let this book be the beginning of uniting the world in light.
November 15, 2023
Twilight Divide
Post Apocalypse
Dystopian
Adventure
Survival
I enjoyed reading this book! I thought that it had a nice storyline and had a great pace! I wasn’t quite sure where the story was gonna go and there were a few big twists closer to the end of the book! The author left the story open for a sequel. I hope that this book gains enough traction for there to be another one!
Post Apocalypse
Dystopian
Adventure
Survival
I enjoyed reading this book! I thought that it had a nice storyline and had a great pace! I wasn’t quite sure where the story was gonna go and there were a few big twists closer to the end of the book! The author left the story open for a sequel. I hope that this book gains enough traction for there to be another one!
November 6, 2023
A Dystopian novel of a destroyed world where humans have become 2 kinds those that live during the day in the blazing heat of the desert or those that live in the freezing caves and come out at night.
Then there is a 3rd kind the duets that both sets of night or day dwellers want to eliminate.
This is the story or a young duet girl and her brother who are trying to survive after the massacre of their family.
The story has many twists and turns and ultimately they may find others of their kind and may find out why they exist and who they are.
A great read - and I am waiting for the next installment………….. as the story ended in a kind of limbo…………
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Then there is a 3rd kind the duets that both sets of night or day dwellers want to eliminate.
This is the story or a young duet girl and her brother who are trying to survive after the massacre of their family.
The story has many twists and turns and ultimately they may find others of their kind and may find out why they exist and who they are.
A great read - and I am waiting for the next installment………….. as the story ended in a kind of limbo…………
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2024
A very different kind of book to read.
You are taken in time that people are try to survive a woman hour as her brother are trying to find family . But they are captured by the duet people and everything changes for them and get real strange for them. The keeps you involved in the story wanting more , well done wanting more.
You are taken in time that people are try to survive a woman hour as her brother are trying to find family . But they are captured by the duet people and everything changes for them and get real strange for them. The keeps you involved in the story wanting more , well done wanting more.
November 12, 2023
A suspense driven, mesmerising science fiction story centered around three factions of people- Blazers, Dwellers and Duets ( also known as Primordials).
The story follows Nour and her brother Malik as they traverse the lands in search of answers as to why their parents were killed and in doing so come across a family member thought to have perished. A whole slew of action ensues when they come across an evil Supreme Leader and Nour needs to dig deep to rise above the threat.
This story was thoroughly enjoyable and I will gladly read other works by the author in the future.
The story follows Nour and her brother Malik as they traverse the lands in search of answers as to why their parents were killed and in doing so come across a family member thought to have perished. A whole slew of action ensues when they come across an evil Supreme Leader and Nour needs to dig deep to rise above the threat.
This story was thoroughly enjoyable and I will gladly read other works by the author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2023
This book had me on the edge of my seat from the first page all the way to the very last. I sped through this book in like a day and a half because I could not put it down. It is a fresh new Dystopian book that succeeds where so many have failed. There is a lot of really interesting world building that does not take away from the story. I would place it in the new adult category because while there is no spice there are a handful of steamy scenes. We are left on a time jump into an epilogue that I could have gone without, I think the author wanted to give us a little more of a hint for a second book in the series and leave us on a huge cliff hanger that leaves you very confused. I cannot wait to read more of Nour and Malik's story.
May 8, 2024
I've read many post-apocalyptic books recently and this is one of the better ones. It contains several elements that will make it appealing to most readers, and the author does a great job or drawing you into a scary and gripping environment. I definitely want to see where the story goes next and will checking out the author's other books.
November 11, 2023
5 Star Rating
3 Skull Dread Rating
As always,
Check Your Triggers 😊
"Twilight Divide" takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a post-apocalyptic world brimming with threats from both Day Blazers and Night Dwellers. Nour and Malik, the Duets, are rare survivors who endure both day and night as they grapple with moral dilemmas and nurture a” who can I trust” attitude. With its skillfully crafted characters, snarky dialogue, and doses of resilience and hope, this exciting dystopian novel will immerse readers in an unforgettable coming-of-age tale. The high stakes keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting the end. The exceptional worldbuilding showcases the author's remarkable storytelling skills. Through character stories and their choices, events unfolding in the Wastelands gain depth, offering readers an immersive and enthralling experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
“Keeping them alive was all she knew and had ever known.”
“Normally, twilight offered solace—a brief respite, temporary peace, a lull.”
Transition times.”
“The shift from day to night in the desert manifested in the sand’s whispering as the sun sank below, the horizon, signaling the end of another day. There is no more good days. There is only survival.”
"Nour's gaze shifted westward, directed to the Day Blazer settlements: Sandy Plains, their lands, their villages, all ruled under one Queen. In their eyes, Aridex was theirs. She couldn't make it out from this distance, but she knew exactly where it was. It was an indispensable skill ingrained in every Duet since birth, a fundamental facet of their being: knowing their enemies."
"But Synthese was different, she was a Sand Warren; a trader
Duet. Different rules applied to Warrens.”
“Only Synthese and the other Sand Warrens were allowed to trade in Aridex. That was the norm, the unwritten."
"The beginning of it all was uncertain, but Nour was certain Synthese's reputation hinged on her ability to remain neutral and not choose a side in the war.”
"It wasn't really a war, but an act of mass murder. A freaking genocide."
" Child of The First"
“The time of the Duets is running out. They are killing us off. Slowly and deliberately. We must unite and strike. You must unite. By the Sun Spirit, and Moon God."
"You're a threat, Nour, and they know it.
An abomination, one might say. I say a savior.”A hope. A future one might say," she giggled again, her eyes wild and unseeing, insanity setting in. "That makes you the hunted. The stakes are higher now, though it has been like this for centuries. Hmm, yes, yes."
“Shun blood's embrace. Where time begins anew. Open your mind, child.”
“The new times? Was she talking about the catastrophe so old it faded into myth and gave birth to a transformation that left the Earth with scorching days and freezing nights?”
“The name, the big happening, and what her father had taught her about the following several thousand years. It was a story passed down by his parents and their parents, dating back to primordial times.”
“According to him, humans evolved into Day Blazers and Night Dwellers as a means of survival against the unpredictable climate.”
“And then there were the Duets, the abominations who could survive both day and night; duality's children, the exception to the rule.”
The Dwellers had adapted and evolved differently. Living in dark caves for thousands of years has affected the human body in another way. Like reptiles, their senses were finely tuned, enabling them to hear, smell, and detect the warmth of blood with incredible accuracy.
"Survivors." Nour said through gritted teeth, "Now stop it, calm down." Maybe " he said hesitantly, we're survivors of death, yes. But that's it.?
“Her mother had told her about the extreme climate change that followed the historical event, the big happening. The event that decimated the world's population triggering human evolution. At the time the earth had changed as well. This meant that once every few years, the time of dusk and dawn stretched, becoming longer. Nour's mother had told her it was an increase in the earth's axial tilt prolonging twilight.”
“Her mother had called it celestial convergence. The convergence occurred every seven years when a celestial body aligned with the earth, affecting its tilt. After a few months, it passed, and Earth returned to normal. Malik knew more about it than she did.
"Yes, who else?" Nour furrowed her brows. Malik's mood had been infectious, but a shiver ran down her spine every time she heard that name. The Queen, the Soul Commander; Serpia, spiritual leader of all Day Blazer. There were tales about how she whispered to the Sun Spirit during the day, and how she howled at the Moon God at night.”
“Aridex was a kingdom, but not one for humankind. One for snakes, lizards, and insects.”
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book, but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
November 12, 2023
Diving into the world of "Twilight Divide" by Melanie Bokstad Horev, I found myself immediately captivated by the intriguing premise set in a post-apocalyptic landscape, where young heroes wrestle with the challenges of survival. The narrative captured my attention from the very first sentence, promising an interesting journey.
While the middle segments of the book experienced a subtle deceleration in pace, the narrative made a recovery with a startling plot twist that emerged unexpectedly. The author is a true genius for crafting unpredictable turns. The exploration of genetically evolved humans added a layer of complexity, and the final plot twists surprised me.
The strength of the novel lies in its well-developed and believable characters. The sibling relationship between Nour and Malik was a standout feature, emotionally deep and familiar.
I wished for more exploration of the Night Dwellers, which were overshadowed by the more prominently featured Day Blazers. Additionally, since the middle part of the story felt a bit sluggish, I thought about moving the final plot twist to an earlier part to make things more exciting and prevent the story from feeling tedious. A multi-point-of-view perspective could have enriched the narrative too, in my opinion. The exploration of pivotal characters, especially Malik, could have added some fresh prespective to the storytelling.
In spite of these minor critiques, "Twilight Divide" remains a thought-provoking read. I eagerly await the next installment, hoping for a more pronounced exploration of the Dwellers, Duets, Blazers, and humans and a deeper delve into the diverse minds of the characters populating this fascinating post-apocalyptic world.
While the middle segments of the book experienced a subtle deceleration in pace, the narrative made a recovery with a startling plot twist that emerged unexpectedly. The author is a true genius for crafting unpredictable turns. The exploration of genetically evolved humans added a layer of complexity, and the final plot twists surprised me.
The strength of the novel lies in its well-developed and believable characters. The sibling relationship between Nour and Malik was a standout feature, emotionally deep and familiar.
I wished for more exploration of the Night Dwellers, which were overshadowed by the more prominently featured Day Blazers. Additionally, since the middle part of the story felt a bit sluggish, I thought about moving the final plot twist to an earlier part to make things more exciting and prevent the story from feeling tedious. A multi-point-of-view perspective could have enriched the narrative too, in my opinion. The exploration of pivotal characters, especially Malik, could have added some fresh prespective to the storytelling.
In spite of these minor critiques, "Twilight Divide" remains a thought-provoking read. I eagerly await the next installment, hoping for a more pronounced exploration of the Dwellers, Duets, Blazers, and humans and a deeper delve into the diverse minds of the characters populating this fascinating post-apocalyptic world.
October 29, 2023
I was given an ARC by the author via StoryOrigin, in return for an honest review.
Although I don’t often read dystopian or post-apocalyptic novels, this one grabbed me from the first page. I’m a sucker for first sentences, as I have mentioned in other reviews, and this one did not disappoint me: “Nobody knew whether it was the consequence of climate change, a mass extinction event, or even the aftermath of the fifth world war.” How can that fail to draw you in?
The story is about survival in a world that is utterly unkind to humans, splitting them into three groups: Blazers that can only go out during the daytime, Dwellers whose outside life is limited to the nighttime hours and another group, the Duets, that can live in both. Nour and her brother Malik are not only part of the last group, but also descendants of the original mixture of daytime and nighttime people, which gives them extra powers.
This is a story filled with adventures, an unconditional love between siblings, betrayal, friendship with people you would not thing would befriend them and then a feeling that they have reached their goal, not being all alone in the world anymore.
I really hope that this world is not the one we will have in our future, although the way we are going…. Kudos to the author for creating well-rounded protagonists, a believable world, albeit a place where I would not like to live and a story that grips you and makes you feel for the characters.
I gave this story a well-deserved five stars and would not mind reading more stories taking place in this world.
Although I don’t often read dystopian or post-apocalyptic novels, this one grabbed me from the first page. I’m a sucker for first sentences, as I have mentioned in other reviews, and this one did not disappoint me: “Nobody knew whether it was the consequence of climate change, a mass extinction event, or even the aftermath of the fifth world war.” How can that fail to draw you in?
The story is about survival in a world that is utterly unkind to humans, splitting them into three groups: Blazers that can only go out during the daytime, Dwellers whose outside life is limited to the nighttime hours and another group, the Duets, that can live in both. Nour and her brother Malik are not only part of the last group, but also descendants of the original mixture of daytime and nighttime people, which gives them extra powers.
This is a story filled with adventures, an unconditional love between siblings, betrayal, friendship with people you would not thing would befriend them and then a feeling that they have reached their goal, not being all alone in the world anymore.
I really hope that this world is not the one we will have in our future, although the way we are going…. Kudos to the author for creating well-rounded protagonists, a believable world, albeit a place where I would not like to live and a story that grips you and makes you feel for the characters.
I gave this story a well-deserved five stars and would not mind reading more stories taking place in this world.
November 16, 2023
Straddling two worlds, they fight to survive. Neither belonging to the Night Dwellers or the Day Blazers, Nour and younger brother Malik do their best to make it day after day.
I loved the premise of this book: a young woman and her teenage brother struggling to survive a post-apocalyptic world where humans have evolved into one of three groups. And I think with some more revisions and a little editing, this story would really shine.
First, I understand the relationship between Nour and Malik: the interdependence, the protective instinct that she has towards her brother. In fact, I think that's one of the best parts of the book especially seeing how that relationship changes.
However, for a 16 year old, Malik acts a lot younger. Before his age was revealed, I thought that he was somewhere around 12, just based on how Nour treats him and how he interacts with the world. I could understand why he seems stunted in his mental growth, based on when he likely lost his entire family except for Nour and how she babies him, but it rubbed me the wrong way.
Second, there's a bit of a mystery around why the Dwellers and Blazers are so determined to hunt Nour and Malik. However, almost 150 pages of vague hints was a little too much for me especially when the semi-reveal wasn't that much of a surprise.
Overall, the idea was solid, the two main characters have a well-developed relationship, but I struggled to keep going when I didn't feel the high stakes I felt this book needed.
I loved the premise of this book: a young woman and her teenage brother struggling to survive a post-apocalyptic world where humans have evolved into one of three groups. And I think with some more revisions and a little editing, this story would really shine.
First, I understand the relationship between Nour and Malik: the interdependence, the protective instinct that she has towards her brother. In fact, I think that's one of the best parts of the book especially seeing how that relationship changes.
However, for a 16 year old, Malik acts a lot younger. Before his age was revealed, I thought that he was somewhere around 12, just based on how Nour treats him and how he interacts with the world. I could understand why he seems stunted in his mental growth, based on when he likely lost his entire family except for Nour and how she babies him, but it rubbed me the wrong way.
Second, there's a bit of a mystery around why the Dwellers and Blazers are so determined to hunt Nour and Malik. However, almost 150 pages of vague hints was a little too much for me especially when the semi-reveal wasn't that much of a surprise.
Overall, the idea was solid, the two main characters have a well-developed relationship, but I struggled to keep going when I didn't feel the high stakes I felt this book needed.
November 16, 2023
Nour and Malik, orphans who are struggling to survive in a dystopian world, are members of the Duet class, both able to live in the daytime (Day Blazers) and in the nighttime (Night Dwellers). Their journey takes them across a brutal desert while trying to avoid both of the other classes who desire to eliminate them. The author spends a lot of time worldbuilding and develops the characters well but Malik does come across as much younger than he actually is in the story. In the end, after a lengthy read, the book ends in a cliffhanger leading to the next installment of the series. This is an interesting story but be prepared to spend a lot of time reading as this is not a short book. Looking forward to the next installment.
I'm a member of the ARC team and have left an honest review voluntarily.
I'm a member of the ARC team and have left an honest review voluntarily.
November 17, 2023
❤️❤️❤️EXCELLENT!
Nobody knew what had happened.
Only one zone now existed: Aridex, a barren desert.
Humans had survived, evolving into three different branches: the Night Dwellers, the Day Blazers and the Duets...
-----------------------------------
A totally stunning dystopian read that took me into a dry and dangerous universe, a super original mix that kept me in suspense until the last page!
And what an ending!!! 😲
I loved everything: the incredible plot, the very successful characters and the unbearable suspense!
I literally can’t wait to read more!
I recommend it to fans of the genre!❤️
Nobody knew what had happened.
Only one zone now existed: Aridex, a barren desert.
Humans had survived, evolving into three different branches: the Night Dwellers, the Day Blazers and the Duets...
-----------------------------------
A totally stunning dystopian read that took me into a dry and dangerous universe, a super original mix that kept me in suspense until the last page!
And what an ending!!! 😲
I loved everything: the incredible plot, the very successful characters and the unbearable suspense!
I literally can’t wait to read more!
I recommend it to fans of the genre!❤️
December 23, 2023
Thankyou to Netgalley for an arc of this book! This story follows Nour and Malik two orphans navigating a post apocalyptic world where they are constantly being hunted on all sides, I thought the story itself was really engaging and I always appreciate the visual world building in these concepts of a world that has ended essentially. The one thing that threw me off was discovering that Malik was a teenager because the dialogue from him seemed really childish but at the same time I think it didn’t bring too much away from the story it was just jarring to me because it seemed like he was 8 or 9 from the way he spoke, other than that I thought it was an engaging story!
March 21, 2024
Nour and Malik, siblings, are Duets. They can survive in the excessive heat during the day and the brutal cold at night. They deal with the Blazers during the and the Dwellers at night.
They learn that they Primordials, part of the first group to be able survive in the day and night.
A bigger surprise occurs when they learn that they are Originals, from the first line of Duets.
Nour understands that she must lead the People of the Sands, and unite the various groups to survive.
The end brings a nice cliffhanger. Very enjoyable book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
They learn that they Primordials, part of the first group to be able survive in the day and night.
A bigger surprise occurs when they learn that they are Originals, from the first line of Duets.
Nour understands that she must lead the People of the Sands, and unite the various groups to survive.
The end brings a nice cliffhanger. Very enjoyable book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2024
Fighting alone in an unforgiving environment, two siblings start to unravel the truth about their world, the shifting night and day, and their family.
The author builds an interesting sci-fi world described by Nour, our young FMC. She feels the weight of her past and present and doesn't know what to believe or who to trust.
I recommend this to readers who enjoy future world settings with human-like creatures and lots of sand. Also for readers who adore sibling teams.
The book definitely sets up for a sequel!
The author builds an interesting sci-fi world described by Nour, our young FMC. She feels the weight of her past and present and doesn't know what to believe or who to trust.
I recommend this to readers who enjoy future world settings with human-like creatures and lots of sand. Also for readers who adore sibling teams.
The book definitely sets up for a sequel!
October 30, 2023
Once again this author doesn’t disappoint. Her main characters are interesting well thought out and every bit human.
The authors imagination continues to surprise me. How she continues to see the world in the near future is both frightening and intriguing.
Some of the main characters nemesis’s are amazing in their substance as well as their potential for being real some time in the future. Or a variation of that.
The book is fast paced and interesting from start to finish.
The authors imagination continues to surprise me. How she continues to see the world in the near future is both frightening and intriguing.
Some of the main characters nemesis’s are amazing in their substance as well as their potential for being real some time in the future. Or a variation of that.
The book is fast paced and interesting from start to finish.
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