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Dawn of Hearts
There must be more to life besides drab stone walls and an existence without meaning.
Buried deep underground, a human civilization lies, hiding from the unknown horrors above and leading sheltered lives. Amara lives within these tunneled halls, always wanting for something more.
On her 20th birthday, she, and other girls her age, are chosen by the young men of the underground and is chosen by the worst man she could have imagined for herself—the leader's cruel and womanizing son.
Before she knows it, she finds herself rapidly thrown into a life she could never want, and worse, a jail cell.
However, when she meets a mysterious and otherworldly man down there, she's thrown into a new adventure she never could have predicted.
Buried deep underground, a human civilization lies, hiding from the unknown horrors above and leading sheltered lives. Amara lives within these tunneled halls, always wanting for something more.
On her 20th birthday, she, and other girls her age, are chosen by the young men of the underground and is chosen by the worst man she could have imagined for herself—the leader's cruel and womanizing son.
Before she knows it, she finds herself rapidly thrown into a life she could never want, and worse, a jail cell.
However, when she meets a mysterious and otherworldly man down there, she's thrown into a new adventure she never could have predicted.
328 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2024
60 people are currently reading
1327 people want to read
About the author
Nareena Rhoman
1 book19 followersNareena Rhoman is set to make her debut as an author on February 14, 2024, with the release of "Dawn of Hearts."
Obsessed with all things fantasy, fairytales, and romance, her writing promises to immerse readers in a lush and whimsical world, brimming with love and adventure. If you delve into any of her works, be prepared to be captivated by her enchanting stories.
Obsessed with all things fantasy, fairytales, and romance, her writing promises to immerse readers in a lush and whimsical world, brimming with love and adventure. If you delve into any of her works, be prepared to be captivated by her enchanting stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
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March 24, 2024It's not my fault, you know? Being drawn to cute warm toned covers and dystopian like fantasies.
January 3, 2024
For 20 years Amara lived in a dark, dull and lifeless world. Wary of the consequences lest she fail to be submissive. She thought being banished to the surface would ruin her life.
That couldn't have been further from the truth.
Taken in by a mysterious stranger with golden eyes, Amara’s life was flipped upside down - in more ways than one. This version of the surface was nothing like what she was taught underground. Bright and colorful, scary and fun… romantic.
She never could have imagined what was waiting for her.
This book was a fun read! The author did a wonderful job painting a picture of what it looks like to leave after being raised in an abusive culture. The magical world will draw you into the story with ease and the romance will leave your heart fluttering.
I highly recommend this book! I can't wait for the next in the series!
That couldn't have been further from the truth.
Taken in by a mysterious stranger with golden eyes, Amara’s life was flipped upside down - in more ways than one. This version of the surface was nothing like what she was taught underground. Bright and colorful, scary and fun… romantic.
She never could have imagined what was waiting for her.
This book was a fun read! The author did a wonderful job painting a picture of what it looks like to leave after being raised in an abusive culture. The magical world will draw you into the story with ease and the romance will leave your heart fluttering.
I highly recommend this book! I can't wait for the next in the series!
January 16, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ WOW!!! I am thoroughly impressed.
I am new to the world of fantasy. I tend to stray more towards romance and thrillers. Fantasy has a lot of elements that make it hard for me to follow, especially a lot of world building because I prefer character driven stories, so they usually don’t engage me as much. BUT THIS BOOK!!! It was character driven, but there was also beautiful world building that wasn’t confusing. It was very easy for me to imagine what kind of world the author was describing and immerse myself in it. The magic systems were also so freaking cool. The vine tattoos that came out of Arryn’s wrists that could turn into wings?!?! The story had elements of familiar themes and stories, but it was completely unique and kept me in a trance the entire time, I truly did not want to put this down.
The romance junkie in me selfishly wanted more romance, but the parts that we got had me grinning ear to ear and kicking my feet.
Just when I thought I had everything figured out and the story was taking a familiar route, a plot twist would be thrown in and throw me for a loop. The end was so action packed and I noticed I was getting closer and closer to finishing the book with no resolution yet and IT ENDS ON A CRAZY CLIFFHANGER that I was not expecting at all. I will be at the edge of my seat waiting for the next book in the series - SO CRUEL!! 🥺😂
I am new to the world of fantasy. I tend to stray more towards romance and thrillers. Fantasy has a lot of elements that make it hard for me to follow, especially a lot of world building because I prefer character driven stories, so they usually don’t engage me as much. BUT THIS BOOK!!! It was character driven, but there was also beautiful world building that wasn’t confusing. It was very easy for me to imagine what kind of world the author was describing and immerse myself in it. The magic systems were also so freaking cool. The vine tattoos that came out of Arryn’s wrists that could turn into wings?!?! The story had elements of familiar themes and stories, but it was completely unique and kept me in a trance the entire time, I truly did not want to put this down.
The romance junkie in me selfishly wanted more romance, but the parts that we got had me grinning ear to ear and kicking my feet.
Just when I thought I had everything figured out and the story was taking a familiar route, a plot twist would be thrown in and throw me for a loop. The end was so action packed and I noticed I was getting closer and closer to finishing the book with no resolution yet and IT ENDS ON A CRAZY CLIFFHANGER that I was not expecting at all. I will be at the edge of my seat waiting for the next book in the series - SO CRUEL!! 🥺😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2024
The first book in the Above the Ground Series is also my first request with BookSirens. Definitely a lovely and magical start to a journey that I hope remains amazing.
“Even in the darkest of places, the light of goodness and love could always shine through, if one dared to look beyond the shadows.”
After reading through this one right upto the monster cliffhanger, I now finally know the true meaning of the dedication of this book. It is really going to take a while to get over this one! You’ve written a good one, @nareenarhomanbooks ♥️
“What was broken must be mended.”
I think I need some mending now because it cannot be right to be waiting for the sequel already when the first one isn’t out yet 🙈🙈 But here I am, guilty as charged. All I’m hoping for now is that whenever it is finally time for the sequel, I remember exactly what I’m feeling while writing this post.
Thank you for my advance copy BookSirens and thank you to the author for encouraging every crazy outburst personally. I’ve loved this one exactly like you described in the dedication. When it finally meets the world this Valentine’s Day, I hope it receives even more.
“Even in the darkest of places, the light of goodness and love could always shine through, if one dared to look beyond the shadows.”
After reading through this one right upto the monster cliffhanger, I now finally know the true meaning of the dedication of this book. It is really going to take a while to get over this one! You’ve written a good one, @nareenarhomanbooks ♥️
“What was broken must be mended.”
I think I need some mending now because it cannot be right to be waiting for the sequel already when the first one isn’t out yet 🙈🙈 But here I am, guilty as charged. All I’m hoping for now is that whenever it is finally time for the sequel, I remember exactly what I’m feeling while writing this post.
Thank you for my advance copy BookSirens and thank you to the author for encouraging every crazy outburst personally. I’ve loved this one exactly like you described in the dedication. When it finally meets the world this Valentine’s Day, I hope it receives even more.
October 13, 2024
4.5⭐️ honestly this was really good!!! it was so cute and i really really enjoyed the plot. also amara was super relatable. the ending 1000% reminded me of acotar but overall i enjoyed this, it was very fast paced and an easy read !
February 10, 2024
At first I was really into the plot. I really liked the story up until about 50%. I felt that there lacked a lot of depth to the story. There is so much potential but not enough delivery. There were a lot of moments it just lost my attention and I found myself loosing interest.
Overall the book was just okay for me. The first half was very good, the second half it just dropped off and lost its momentum. I suggest adding more suspense and depth to the storyline and characters.
Thank you Book Siren for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall the book was just okay for me. The first half was very good, the second half it just dropped off and lost its momentum. I suggest adding more suspense and depth to the storyline and characters.
Thank you Book Siren for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2024
I'm tempted to give this book fewer stars, but I'll stick to three. The idea of this book is amazing, but the execution felt rushed and shallow. If this book was more fleshed out, it would be so much better. So much just happened randomly and we just had to go along with it. It just wasn't great, but it could have been which is why this book is so disappointing.
February 8, 2024
I enjoyed this story! I will say that the beginning was a bit slow moving, but about 30% in, the book picked up nicely, and chapters 27-32 were really thrilling & fast paced!
One critique I would say is that the background & scenery could have used some more colorful descriptions. I felt myself a little let down by the lack of “world building.”
The FMC was stable, but I would say I wasn’t exactly “rooting” for her. She lacked a type of attraction that other FMC have, maybe more inner dialogue would have helped, or even a little more emotion shown throughout the book. She was hard to relate to for me. The MMC was good, but we could have enjoyed even more depth of character from him, we knew nothing about him, other than he was a fate & a king. We never saw him deal with difficult kingly situations, and we never really got a feel for his kingdom, or the people he was trying to rule & protect.
The love story was sweet! I personally enjoyed the closed door, fade out love scenes. It was very true to the YA theme, but the scenes still felt sprinkled with sultry vibes and their love story was a nice subplot.
One thing that wasn’t entirely clear for me, is why Kieran didn’t expose certain truths about Arryn sooner, or the magnitude of what he had to gain from getting what he laid claim on!
By the end of the story, I couldn’t remember the beginning fairytale either. It might serve the story to circle back around & retell the fairytale in an even longer synopsis. This would be very helpful since this was the foundation of the plot. (I hope that isn’t a spoiler).
Overall, a very nice YA read! It reminded me a lot of a younger, less dark “A Court of Mist & Fury!” by Sarah J Mass.
What made me give the story a 3 star, and not a higher rating was the lack of world building, weaker character building, and a few confusing elements.
Great job! Best of luck :)
One critique I would say is that the background & scenery could have used some more colorful descriptions. I felt myself a little let down by the lack of “world building.”
The FMC was stable, but I would say I wasn’t exactly “rooting” for her. She lacked a type of attraction that other FMC have, maybe more inner dialogue would have helped, or even a little more emotion shown throughout the book. She was hard to relate to for me. The MMC was good, but we could have enjoyed even more depth of character from him, we knew nothing about him, other than he was a fate & a king. We never saw him deal with difficult kingly situations, and we never really got a feel for his kingdom, or the people he was trying to rule & protect.
The love story was sweet! I personally enjoyed the closed door, fade out love scenes. It was very true to the YA theme, but the scenes still felt sprinkled with sultry vibes and their love story was a nice subplot.
One thing that wasn’t entirely clear for me, is why Kieran didn’t expose certain truths about Arryn sooner, or the magnitude of what he had to gain from getting what he laid claim on!
By the end of the story, I couldn’t remember the beginning fairytale either. It might serve the story to circle back around & retell the fairytale in an even longer synopsis. This would be very helpful since this was the foundation of the plot. (I hope that isn’t a spoiler).
Overall, a very nice YA read! It reminded me a lot of a younger, less dark “A Court of Mist & Fury!” by Sarah J Mass.
What made me give the story a 3 star, and not a higher rating was the lack of world building, weaker character building, and a few confusing elements.
Great job! Best of luck :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2024
thank you to booksirens for providing me an arc
3.5 ⭐️
i was so excited to get to read Dawn of Hearts. it wasn’t like anything i’ve read before, but it was also really familiar. so many parts reminded me of many other books and stories i’ve read before, but it also tied everything in to bring a new magical original story together. i felt like the book really starts to get into the conflict 75% into the book, but that aside, i really enjoyed reading into how amara starts to acclimate to her new home and her new reality. the author did really well in describing how much amara struggles with trusting her gut vs listening to what she thinks she’s “supposed” to do. amara contradicts herself a lot, which at times was frustrating, but it makes sense when you remember amara was forced to believe she was never to act out and to never draw attention. the author did very well in writing how amara’s abusive upbringing affects how she chooses to act and trust herself. i really had fun reading this and i can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out!!
3.5 ⭐️
i was so excited to get to read Dawn of Hearts. it wasn’t like anything i’ve read before, but it was also really familiar. so many parts reminded me of many other books and stories i’ve read before, but it also tied everything in to bring a new magical original story together. i felt like the book really starts to get into the conflict 75% into the book, but that aside, i really enjoyed reading into how amara starts to acclimate to her new home and her new reality. the author did really well in describing how much amara struggles with trusting her gut vs listening to what she thinks she’s “supposed” to do. amara contradicts herself a lot, which at times was frustrating, but it makes sense when you remember amara was forced to believe she was never to act out and to never draw attention. the author did very well in writing how amara’s abusive upbringing affects how she chooses to act and trust herself. i really had fun reading this and i can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out!!
February 8, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, BookSirens, for the copy.
If you are looking for a short fantasy novel that is easy to understand, you may like this book. It is an easy novel to start in the genre, but I do believe that it is not for readers who are used to the genre.
I like the world; the map is one of my favorites ever made. The descriptions of the underworld society and the different kingdoms are a good concept and interesting to read.
The way the protagonist reacts to all the new things she is learning is also good. It had a fairytale vibe. I do wish there were a little more detail in some of the magic elements.
What I did not like was the fact that the romance never clicked with me. It felt manipulative, and I don't know if that was the intention or not.
Maybe in the next books it will be explained, but I'm not sure if I would like for everything to be resolved and for them to end together.
If you are looking for a short fantasy novel that is easy to understand, you may like this book. It is an easy novel to start in the genre, but I do believe that it is not for readers who are used to the genre.
I like the world; the map is one of my favorites ever made. The descriptions of the underworld society and the different kingdoms are a good concept and interesting to read.
The way the protagonist reacts to all the new things she is learning is also good. It had a fairytale vibe. I do wish there were a little more detail in some of the magic elements.
What I did not like was the fact that the romance never clicked with me. It felt manipulative, and I don't know if that was the intention or not.
Maybe in the next books it will be explained, but I'm not sure if I would like for everything to be resolved and for them to end together.
January 27, 2024
I really enjoyed the writing style of this author! It was detailed at just the right places that it gave the readers a visual, but also did not overdo the environment details and also focus on the characters. While I haven’t read many single POVs before, this one really exceeded my expectations, and I thoroughly enjoyed this change in my reading pattern.
The plot moved at a pace that kept the readers on edge. The prologue of the book was enough to gain an audience and create interest. The writing and the plot were really smart. There were enough details given to understand the backstory, and the story continued to move forward.
I really connected with the female main character. She was rebellious and had the curiosity and imagination to do and know more in life, and I absolutely loved that. She was strong and she did not let anything pull her down.
While I am more of a romance girly, it took me a while to get used to the fantasy part, but overall, I really recommend this book to anyone and everyone who enjoys fantasy with a sprinkle of romance!
The plot moved at a pace that kept the readers on edge. The prologue of the book was enough to gain an audience and create interest. The writing and the plot were really smart. There were enough details given to understand the backstory, and the story continued to move forward.
I really connected with the female main character. She was rebellious and had the curiosity and imagination to do and know more in life, and I absolutely loved that. She was strong and she did not let anything pull her down.
While I am more of a romance girly, it took me a while to get used to the fantasy part, but overall, I really recommend this book to anyone and everyone who enjoys fantasy with a sprinkle of romance!
March 5, 2024
WOW. Just wow. This book is absolutely everything. Every time I read this book I felt absolutely GLUED to it. Everything single thing about this book was 🤌🤌. The vibes, the tension, the magic, the dialogue, the characters, the PLOT. I loved how the author really provides a glimpse into the hardships of womanhood. If you want a book that will take you out of reality for a little bit, THIS IS IT. This book will give you the whimsical vibes, the magic vibes, and a good romance. This book was JUST as beautiful as the cover. Super cute to put on your book shelf. I’m hoping that some things will end up connecting altogether in the second book. I truly don’t think I can wait for the next book to come out. I’m ITCHING for more content. Ended on a cliff hanger… but i’m not mad about it. Love a good switch up😉10/10 RECOMMEND.
January 27, 2024
I really enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next book! Firstly, I enjoyed the song playlist at the beginning of the book as it set the tone for the story, it was a nice touch!
I was captivated from the start, with the lovely world-building and interesting premise. With vibes similar to The Vampire Diaries, and A Court of Thorns and Roses, the romance mixed with fantasy elements had me invested.
I liked how Amara’s internal conflict with her gut feelings and how she was taught to behave during her life underground showcased how she made decisions and what she wanted to do differently.
I also liked the fairytales mixed in between, further adding to the whimsical feel throughout the story.
This was a fun read, and with the cliffhanger ending I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was captivated from the start, with the lovely world-building and interesting premise. With vibes similar to The Vampire Diaries, and A Court of Thorns and Roses, the romance mixed with fantasy elements had me invested.
I liked how Amara’s internal conflict with her gut feelings and how she was taught to behave during her life underground showcased how she made decisions and what she wanted to do differently.
I also liked the fairytales mixed in between, further adding to the whimsical feel throughout the story.
This was a fun read, and with the cliffhanger ending I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 8, 2024
I was instantly entranced by not only the cover of this book but also the way you are introduced to the world in the prologue. With hints of ACOTAR and The Vampire Diaries, this book is great for every fantasy romance reader! My only concern was the book's length and how it left more to be desired but it is advertised as the first in a series so that wish will be granted one day. I loved how you were experiencing learning about the fantasy aspect of the world with the main character, Amara, it gives the reader a unique experience of what Amara is going through as well as brings that whimsical aspect by living vicariously through her as she experiences beautiful new things full of magic for the first time. The romance barely scratched the surface, yet it was beautiful, tender, and heartbreaking, leaving you longing for more of it. Overall this book was an amazing start to a series and has set a great base for future books and additions to the fantasy lore and Amara’s world.
August 4, 2024
I didn't want to finish this book or see it end! I was in a reading slump and unsure if this book would pull me out of it until I was about 30% in and got hooked. I enjoyed the author's writing style and the world-building. It was whimsical, and some of the magic even took me by surprise. I savored the plot twist at the end, but now the cliffhanger will be on my mind, making it hard to wait for the next book.
January 3, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book, the author wrote it in such a way that keeps the reader engaged. From chapter one I found myself anticipating the ceremony with Amara. It was as if I could feel everything she did, and I could relate to some of the things she was going through. Especially when it came down to the underground’s view of women.
January 13, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book. Throughout it you are wanting more, and it is hard to put down. The romance and adventure in it it really good. But the overall looming suspense is what really hooked me. I had my own thoughts of what was going to happen, and most of the time they weren’t true, or it has been left unanswered and will be in the 2nd book!!
July 10, 2024
bestie did a wonderful job in her story!! everything was so magical. i felt like i was immersed into a fantasy world. omg but i’m totally rooting for the villain brother ofc 🥰🥰🥰
also tell me why her book feels like a Lana del Rey song?!
also tell me why her book feels like a Lana del Rey song?!
June 12, 2024
WOW
I need the second book to drop nowwwwww. This was an amazing read. Very well paced and has me begging for more!
I need the second book to drop nowwwwww. This was an amazing read. Very well paced and has me begging for more!
June 11, 2024
The ENDING. o.o
May 10, 2024
WHY END IT LIKE THAT???I NEED THE SECOND BOOK
February 18, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. I liked how the fantasy and romance was "magically" intertwined. Amaris and Arryn were well developed characters and fit nicely together. I found the book extremely hard to put down and finished it in one sitting. Nareena Rhoman is a terrific story teller.
February 14, 2024
I really enjoyed Dawn of Hearts, it was a lovely story that was beautifully written. I found your characters very likable and it overall a great story.
March 25, 2024
this was amazing
please please please release the next book this is amazing for a debut book, genuinely exactly what I needed. Amazing.
please please please release the next book this is amazing for a debut book, genuinely exactly what I needed. Amazing.
April 4, 2024
Omg 😍
I’m so in shock that this book hasn’t gotten more popular! I’m obsessed with this story and that cliffhanger 😱😱 I can’t wait for the next book! 💕
I’m so in shock that this book hasn’t gotten more popular! I’m obsessed with this story and that cliffhanger 😱😱 I can’t wait for the next book! 💕
February 12, 2024
Thank you Nareena for giving me a copy of your book in exchange for an honest review!
The ending had such a big cliff hanger I need the next book now. Like right now.
Once she got banished the plot picked up a lot! It was a very quick read. The story was fast paced which I enjoyed. It did read more like Young Adult book sometimes, which it is, but I didn’t mind it. I was able to get passed it. There were some cheesy parts, but there were also a lot of great swoon-worthy moments as well.
The world was very interesting to me! I liked the scenery and what state the world was in. It reminded me of the book/show “Silo” when they were underground. I wonder if she will ever make it down there again.
Amara was a good main character. There were a lot of times I laughed out loud at things she said or thought. There were also moments though where I had to face palm because she would do such dumb things. She made me so frustrated at points. That is what makes her human. I’m hoping she grows out of that as time goes on. It’s to be expected when she grew up the way she did.
I thought I would despise Arryn for being boring and not Keiran but I actually didn’t mind him at first! He had a lot of personality and was funny and sweet, especially when they first met. I could see his charm and how Amara fell for him after being in the dark underground for so long.
But that all changed the minute I heard about Keiran. I knew I would be a goner when I met him. I love him. He made me giggle and blush the whole entire time. There was so much foreshadowing throughout that showed what he would be later in the series and I can’t wait to see that be explored.
I could start to see the cracks in Arryn and slowly started to dislike him and be over their relationship. But that is to be expected when you have a darker more morally grey character, in my case at least.
The brothers gave Stefan and Damon vibes and I loved it. Or it was a Tamlin situation. He seemed good at first but you actually see his true colors in the end.
I could see people liking one brother over the other depending on what kind of love interest they like personality wise. I’m just a sucker for the bad boy. (Who may not even end up actually being a bad boy, who knows.)
I will say I don’t totally understand why Keiran waited so long to tell her about Arryan, especially because he had plenty of opportunity to, but maybe he was waiting until she was in too deep or something to make her desperate. I hope that’s explained in the next book.
I could go on and on about all the moments with Keiran that made me squeal, and all the references to Amara and him being fated together. I can’t wait for that to be explored in the next book! I’m itching to read it whenever it comes out.
If you’re looking for an easy to read unique fantasy, this is the one for you!
The ending had such a big cliff hanger I need the next book now. Like right now.
Once she got banished the plot picked up a lot! It was a very quick read. The story was fast paced which I enjoyed. It did read more like Young Adult book sometimes, which it is, but I didn’t mind it. I was able to get passed it. There were some cheesy parts, but there were also a lot of great swoon-worthy moments as well.
The world was very interesting to me! I liked the scenery and what state the world was in. It reminded me of the book/show “Silo” when they were underground. I wonder if she will ever make it down there again.
Amara was a good main character. There were a lot of times I laughed out loud at things she said or thought. There were also moments though where I had to face palm because she would do such dumb things. She made me so frustrated at points. That is what makes her human. I’m hoping she grows out of that as time goes on. It’s to be expected when she grew up the way she did.
I thought I would despise Arryn for being boring and not Keiran but I actually didn’t mind him at first! He had a lot of personality and was funny and sweet, especially when they first met. I could see his charm and how Amara fell for him after being in the dark underground for so long.
But that all changed the minute I heard about Keiran. I knew I would be a goner when I met him. I love him. He made me giggle and blush the whole entire time. There was so much foreshadowing throughout that showed what he would be later in the series and I can’t wait to see that be explored.
I could start to see the cracks in Arryn and slowly started to dislike him and be over their relationship. But that is to be expected when you have a darker more morally grey character, in my case at least.
The brothers gave Stefan and Damon vibes and I loved it. Or it was a Tamlin situation. He seemed good at first but you actually see his true colors in the end.
I could see people liking one brother over the other depending on what kind of love interest they like personality wise. I’m just a sucker for the bad boy. (Who may not even end up actually being a bad boy, who knows.)
I will say I don’t totally understand why Keiran waited so long to tell her about Arryan, especially because he had plenty of opportunity to, but maybe he was waiting until she was in too deep or something to make her desperate. I hope that’s explained in the next book.
I could go on and on about all the moments with Keiran that made me squeal, and all the references to Amara and him being fated together. I can’t wait for that to be explored in the next book! I’m itching to read it whenever it comes out.
If you’re looking for an easy to read unique fantasy, this is the one for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2024
A magic filled, romantasy with a swoony romance and uniquely fascinating world!
Dawn of Hearts follows a human girl called Amara. She lives underground with the rest of the humans as the topside world has unimaginable dangers and monsters. On her 20th birthday, Amara and the other girls her age are to be chosen by eligible young men to be their wife. And Amara gets an awful match. The leader’s cruel, womanizing son chooses her. Amara tries to make the best of it but is soon thrown into jail over a misunderstanding and a cruel world designed to hate women. Except, Amara meets a handsome, otherworldly stranger in the prison and by doing so, unlocks a whole new world she never expected.
I loved the world that was created. The beginning of this novel, when they’re in the underground human city, feels so much like the speeches in the Barbie movie, if that makes sense. The human world is designed to keep women as a lesser species and raise the men up – very reminiscent of our world and its history but with its own spin on it.
I really enjoyed watching Amara go through the society she was raised in and loved the fascinating, magical world the author created aboveground. Amara is a really strong, snarky main character who is incredibly brave and has a big heart. I loved seeing her interact with the aboveground world, and learning about magic and new things she never got to experience underground. It was so fun to see her growth over the course of the novel, especially no longer listening to the expectations the humans placed on women. The love interest, Arryn was so lovely. Their romance was so sweet and swoony and I couldn’t get enough of their scenes together.
I did find it a tad slow in the middle, but overall, the plot does pick up and it gets so interesting and kept me very captivated while reading. I couldn’t wait to see where the ending went and man, I was not expecting that! I really liked the ending and I’m dying to read the sequel!!
Also, I adored, ADORED, the little snippets of fairytales throughout and the illustrations attached to them! Its gorgeous!!
Overall, this book is filled with magic and whimsy, tender and sweet romance that feels like a fairytale. If you like The Vampire Diaries or ACOTAR, definitely give this one a read!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Dawn of Hearts follows a human girl called Amara. She lives underground with the rest of the humans as the topside world has unimaginable dangers and monsters. On her 20th birthday, Amara and the other girls her age are to be chosen by eligible young men to be their wife. And Amara gets an awful match. The leader’s cruel, womanizing son chooses her. Amara tries to make the best of it but is soon thrown into jail over a misunderstanding and a cruel world designed to hate women. Except, Amara meets a handsome, otherworldly stranger in the prison and by doing so, unlocks a whole new world she never expected.
I loved the world that was created. The beginning of this novel, when they’re in the underground human city, feels so much like the speeches in the Barbie movie, if that makes sense. The human world is designed to keep women as a lesser species and raise the men up – very reminiscent of our world and its history but with its own spin on it.
I really enjoyed watching Amara go through the society she was raised in and loved the fascinating, magical world the author created aboveground. Amara is a really strong, snarky main character who is incredibly brave and has a big heart. I loved seeing her interact with the aboveground world, and learning about magic and new things she never got to experience underground. It was so fun to see her growth over the course of the novel, especially no longer listening to the expectations the humans placed on women. The love interest, Arryn was so lovely. Their romance was so sweet and swoony and I couldn’t get enough of their scenes together.
I did find it a tad slow in the middle, but overall, the plot does pick up and it gets so interesting and kept me very captivated while reading. I couldn’t wait to see where the ending went and man, I was not expecting that! I really liked the ending and I’m dying to read the sequel!!
Also, I adored, ADORED, the little snippets of fairytales throughout and the illustrations attached to them! Its gorgeous!!
Overall, this book is filled with magic and whimsy, tender and sweet romance that feels like a fairytale. If you like The Vampire Diaries or ACOTAR, definitely give this one a read!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 10, 2024
Okay so this was not what I thought it was going to be but it was so much better??? I think when people see fantasy they expect insane world building and lots of fighting/action scenes, and that is GREAT too, but this book gave the feelings of a cozy fantasy but was so much more entertaining if that makes sense? It wasn’t super high stakes but I still felt so much for the story. It could be because I love fairytales and ANYTHING that has that dreamy Midsonmer Nights Dream vibe to it, but I loved it so much. The romance isn’t too in your face and it is super light and sweet. I loved seeing Amara’s progression throughout the story as she realized the world above was not the scary place she thought it to be and the people above weren’t either. I saw a few people say they hated how Amara makes decisions and is indecisive which I can see how that is annoying, but I personally loved that about her. When I see characters who aren’t super sure of themselves (and it actually makes sense in the context of the story because she was abused by her society and parents her entire life, bullied into thinking a certain way so it def makes sense why she isn’t confident in her decisions and thinking) I find it super relatable because I am the same exact way. It helped me connect with Amara and I totally understand why she acts the way she does.
I also loved the magic system and the magical scenes. Everything after Amara left the underground felt like a dream and I think the author probably did that on purpose to contrast between how dull her life was underground versus how magical it was above?? (I think??) anyway, the moonlight flower field scene is something I will think about forever… AND Arryn’s vines😭😂 Iykyk.
I can’t wait until the next book! I hope this book gets more hype because it definitely deserves it !
I also loved the magic system and the magical scenes. Everything after Amara left the underground felt like a dream and I think the author probably did that on purpose to contrast between how dull her life was underground versus how magical it was above?? (I think??) anyway, the moonlight flower field scene is something I will think about forever… AND Arryn’s vines😭😂 Iykyk.
I can’t wait until the next book! I hope this book gets more hype because it definitely deserves it !
January 19, 2024
I was excited to receive this ARC! I'm newer to the romantasy genre, but have read the TikTok "must reads". One of those must reads? You guessed it ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses). I was not the biggest fan of ACOTAR, because I found it hard to make it through the first half of book two (A Court of Mist and Fury). She spent the first. . . I don't know. . . . 350 pages of the book wallowing in self pity at doing something that had to be done. Was it difficult and an awful thing? Yes, but come on . . . Anywho. I am giving this the same rating I gave that, because in the end we ended up in the exact same spot. Wallowing in self pity, making grand leaps based on lapses in judgment, and not learning anything.
I would like to say this was a good book! It just wasn't one of my favorites, because the FMC just didn't do it for me. I went into this blind and was confused where the fantasy came into play at first. Once the story picked up it got better, but where it lost me was with the blind acceptance of things and the references of “normally” when talking about someone she's just met a few weeks ago. Very minor things I know 😅 when it picked up I felt like it went a little too fast, but it did need to get somewhere so I get that. The ending though? A bit rude. . . . I only say that because I DESPISE cliffhangers when I can't continue on. 😅
All that being said. If you liked ACOTAR you should definitely give this a read. You will thoroughly enjoy it. If you found ACOTAR a bit tedious at times this may not be the best book for you. I would also like to note there is more tension than any spice in this book. I know some people love that tension!
I would like to say this was a good book! It just wasn't one of my favorites, because the FMC just didn't do it for me. I went into this blind and was confused where the fantasy came into play at first. Once the story picked up it got better, but where it lost me was with the blind acceptance of things and the references of “normally” when talking about someone she's just met a few weeks ago. Very minor things I know 😅 when it picked up I felt like it went a little too fast, but it did need to get somewhere so I get that. The ending though? A bit rude. . . . I only say that because I DESPISE cliffhangers when I can't continue on. 😅
All that being said. If you liked ACOTAR you should definitely give this a read. You will thoroughly enjoy it. If you found ACOTAR a bit tedious at times this may not be the best book for you. I would also like to note there is more tension than any spice in this book. I know some people love that tension!
January 30, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book by BookSirens, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Very easy and quick to read YA fantasy romance. No spice (fade to black).
I love how there are many feminist views in this book. Feels refreshing to read. We love a strong girlie.
I love how the world goes from dark and bland (biege literally a color for a huge event??) to very bright and intricate once she's out in Nymyria. The world building was good. I could imagine each scene that I read. The details were there but not overwhelming.
I can say that I feel like we didn't get enough character development out of some of the main characters. Just very vague. I know there are reasons behind why, but even some background characters are more developed than the features.
Fates area a fun creature to deal with. Very fae-like but not quite. But more than human. Neat magic.
I have to say, especially second half of the book, many ACOTAR vibes and alarms go off. If you're a fan but can do without spice this could be a book you love.
***mini spoiler stop reading this review***
Before reading, there was a disclaimer about a cliffhanger. BUT THIS IS A BIG CLIFFHANGER. I NEED MORE.
Very easy and quick to read YA fantasy romance. No spice (fade to black).
I love how there are many feminist views in this book. Feels refreshing to read. We love a strong girlie.
I love how the world goes from dark and bland (biege literally a color for a huge event??) to very bright and intricate once she's out in Nymyria. The world building was good. I could imagine each scene that I read. The details were there but not overwhelming.
I can say that I feel like we didn't get enough character development out of some of the main characters. Just very vague. I know there are reasons behind why, but even some background characters are more developed than the features.
Fates area a fun creature to deal with. Very fae-like but not quite. But more than human. Neat magic.
I have to say, especially second half of the book, many ACOTAR vibes and alarms go off. If you're a fan but can do without spice this could be a book you love.
***mini spoiler stop reading this review***
Before reading, there was a disclaimer about a cliffhanger. BUT THIS IS A BIG CLIFFHANGER. I NEED MORE.
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