What do you think?
Rate this book
The Summertide Chronicles #2
Dawnchaser
I came here to kill Huxley Dawnchaser.
I expected the ridiculous extravagance of his estate, his home, his life. What I didn’t expect was the trail of broken people he left in his wake long before (edited for spoilers). I certainly didn’t expect to be put in the position of helping Huxley’s children pick up the pieces of their own shattered lives.
There must be some way I can kill him twice.
Dawnchaser is the second in a series of four books, starring one exhausted family lord, one terrified bunny who needs to discover his inner predator, and one princess who just wants everyone but her friends to go away so she can have her tea party. It contains Cove and Florian HFN, and continues the overall story arc of the series.
I expected the ridiculous extravagance of his estate, his home, his life. What I didn’t expect was the trail of broken people he left in his wake long before (edited for spoilers). I certainly didn’t expect to be put in the position of helping Huxley’s children pick up the pieces of their own shattered lives.
There must be some way I can kill him twice.
Dawnchaser is the second in a series of four books, starring one exhausted family lord, one terrified bunny who needs to discover his inner predator, and one princess who just wants everyone but her friends to go away so she can have her tea party. It contains Cove and Florian HFN, and continues the overall story arc of the series.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2024
64 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
October 6, 2024
~2.5~
This book flaunts some serious daddy vibes. Cove is distinguished and wise, with hair as white as snow, as is the Moonstriker way.
Florian is in his 20s but still a boy. His abusive father made sure of that. Florian flourishes under Cove's calm guidance and gentle care.
I was surprised by how quickly Cove and Florian got together. One minute, Cove is being all bad ass, taking over Dawnchaser lands; the next, Florian is straddling him, and there's some hot and heavy dick grinding happening.
The Summertide Chronicles centers on political intrigue and power allegiances, but this story isn't exciting or suspenseful; it's slow moving and randomly detailed.
All the bullshit with the Dawnchaser cousins felt like filler. I was hella confused by the plethora of strange names and convoluted family dynamics.
The constant internal monologues - one line of dialogue, followed by pages and pages of unfocused musings (that served largely to info dump) - bored me to tears.
I had an issue with Fawn's character because her mental disability rang false. She was cute and wise, yet naive and childish, like a doll, a prop. That's not how developmental disabilities work. Not at all.
Also, the juxtaposition of medieval fantasy (sentient stones, kingdoms, castles, ancient volcanos) with modern day conveniences, like cars and mobile phones, felt schizophrenic. At one point, the mention of a ball point pen pulled me completely out of the story.
Nothing about the plot or these characters is modern in any way. It's like the author couldn't be bothered to create a full magical world, so she dumped the characters in Milawaukee and called it a day.
I had high hopes for this series in book 1, but I'm not sure I'm going to continue.
This book flaunts some serious daddy vibes. Cove is distinguished and wise, with hair as white as snow, as is the Moonstriker way.
Florian is in his 20s but still a boy. His abusive father made sure of that. Florian flourishes under Cove's calm guidance and gentle care.
I was surprised by how quickly Cove and Florian got together. One minute, Cove is being all bad ass, taking over Dawnchaser lands; the next, Florian is straddling him, and there's some hot and heavy dick grinding happening.
The Summertide Chronicles centers on political intrigue and power allegiances, but this story isn't exciting or suspenseful; it's slow moving and randomly detailed.
All the bullshit with the Dawnchaser cousins felt like filler. I was hella confused by the plethora of strange names and convoluted family dynamics.
The constant internal monologues - one line of dialogue, followed by pages and pages of unfocused musings (that served largely to info dump) - bored me to tears.
I had an issue with Fawn's character because her mental disability rang false. She was cute and wise, yet naive and childish, like a doll, a prop. That's not how developmental disabilities work. Not at all.
Also, the juxtaposition of medieval fantasy (sentient stones, kingdoms, castles, ancient volcanos) with modern day conveniences, like cars and mobile phones, felt schizophrenic. At one point, the mention of a ball point pen pulled me completely out of the story.
Nothing about the plot or these characters is modern in any way. It's like the author couldn't be bothered to create a full magical world, so she dumped the characters in Milawaukee and called it a day.
I had high hopes for this series in book 1, but I'm not sure I'm going to continue.
October 7, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Dawnchaser is the second installment of the the Summertide Chronicles series by Sam Burns. It takes place entirely within the bucolic Dawnchaser lands. There is a delicious juxtaposition between this verdant, lush setting and the generally cold and hard-hearted nature of most Dawnchasers. The narration switching between Florian and Cove reinforces this contrast. First, because Cove learns to see the Dawnchasers as more than just the power-hungry people Huxley had shaped them into and second, because Florian’s thoughts and deeds prove not all Dawnchasers are like Huxley.
The story picks up a few weeks after the end of book one, Gloombringer.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Dawnchaser is the second installment of the the Summertide Chronicles series by Sam Burns. It takes place entirely within the bucolic Dawnchaser lands. There is a delicious juxtaposition between this verdant, lush setting and the generally cold and hard-hearted nature of most Dawnchasers. The narration switching between Florian and Cove reinforces this contrast. First, because Cove learns to see the Dawnchasers as more than just the power-hungry people Huxley had shaped them into and second, because Florian’s thoughts and deeds prove not all Dawnchasers are like Huxley.
The story picks up a few weeks after the end of book one, Gloombringer.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
September 30, 2024
Dawnchaser is the second book in The Summertide Chronicles series. This series is best read in order as it contains a continuing story ARC. This is Cove and Florians story. This is another wonderful story in the series. I loved Cove and Florian so much but we can't forget about Fawn who is just the cutest. It was so good watching these characters come out of their shells and grow. I'm enjoying the overall story ARC. I can't wait for the next book in the series to see what comes next. I can't wait for all four hoses of Summertide to come together. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
January 6, 2025
Another great installment
Although the “I loved you”s were premature, I really enjoyed this book.
Cove and Florian were cute together and I thought perfect for each other.
On to the next!
Although the “I loved you”s were premature, I really enjoyed this book.
Cove and Florian were cute together and I thought perfect for each other.
On to the next!
December 21, 2024
Such a great book. In the beginning, I didn't know what to expect. both characters are introduced in the first book but don't make a great impression there.
But I loved them!!!
And now I am so curious how this will develop. I have to confess I would have thought there would be another couple in the next book. So I am curious
But I loved them!!!
And now I am so curious how this will develop. I have to confess I would have thought there would be another couple in the next book. So I am curious
February 1, 2025
I’m no expert, but methinks folx go a little too far to find fault where there isn’t any.
This entire world is made up, even if there are cars and phones and television. I firmly believe Frost and Rain both exhibit autistic traits. Hell, even Adair, which just gives three different ways that the ‘tism can strike. Ask me how I know.🙄
But—and here’s the sticking point—it’s not Autism. Because the book is made up. It’s fantasy. The whole entire world is fantasy. I don’t know how many times you can say that before people get it.
Of-fucking-course the author modeled some of the characteristics of reality, but it’s still their world and their rules. And if you read critically and without a bias towards everything being a reflection of your world/reality in its totality, you’d have seen how everyone worth a damn treated Fawn as an adult that was capable and intelligent, just with kindness and a bit of extra care.
The author even added bits to push that her “playing with dolls” and being a little childlike/naive was all mostly just her way of coping with the trauma and distress of her environment/treatment as she grew up.
You know? Where folx treated her like a child and as if she were less-than because she had a bit of a developmental disability, and everyone that was worth a single fuck didn’t like it and could finally change it, so they fucking did?
And she wasn’t a plot device or filler. Y’all just want to be fucking mad for no reason instead of being mad for legit reasons. If this book was based solely on how things work in this reality, in this timeline, then yeah, get mad because that would be fucking gross if it wasn’t handled with respect and considerate representation. But maybe, just maybe, shit is different in a fucking fae/human-esque mashup world.
If you just didn’t like it, say that shit instead, like a grownup. Don’t invent reasons to be angry. Y’all don’t get mad at genocide, but y’all get mad at fantasy disabilities. I cannot stand this planet.
The cousins were a mess, and I truly wish I could’ve seen Afton get her fucking shit rocked, but I get showing the chaos that Huxley created. Did I wish they would’ve featured a little less? Yeah, but only because I was interested in different facets of Dawnchaser life. That WAS Florian’s life, though, and it’s like no one seems to get that.
That was his entire life. His shitty-ass dad, his shitty-ass fucking family, and the bullshit the two caused. And somehow the author managed to get a whole book out of that little pocket of gross by finding ways to make it work for the overarching plot. I find that commendable, considering it could’ve been flat and irrelevant.
Now, what I can’t forgive? Not getting to see Cove stand up to Delta, whom I haven’t liked since the jump. Bad parents are a strong dislike of mine, and bad family just goes right along with that. I wanted to see him get to say his peace. He deserved it after decades of dumb shit. I’m just glad I got to see him finally happy with the whole Kit thing. They both deserved that win.
Healing is so messy but so goddamn beautiful, and I love a book full of it. Plus, these books have had no relationship angst, just outside angst, and that’s my fav. I can’t help it. I’m a soft-ass bitch. I love when the relationship is the anchor, and they battle together.
4.5/5. This one wasn’t as ~m u c h~ as the first one, but it was still more than enough. It had a lot of greatness, and thank fuck it wasn’t ‘daddy’ age gap. Just regular age gap. I’m kinda sick and tired of daddy kink, what with it always being overdone and dry, and made creepy as the very icky maraschino cherry on top. The whole thing is still interesting and pulling at me to keep going so I know the whole story. I love it and I’m champing at the bit to start book three, but I have to do real life shit like cook supper first. Fucking lame.
This entire world is made up, even if there are cars and phones and television. I firmly believe Frost and Rain both exhibit autistic traits. Hell, even Adair, which just gives three different ways that the ‘tism can strike. Ask me how I know.🙄
But—and here’s the sticking point—it’s not Autism. Because the book is made up. It’s fantasy. The whole entire world is fantasy. I don’t know how many times you can say that before people get it.
Of-fucking-course the author modeled some of the characteristics of reality, but it’s still their world and their rules. And if you read critically and without a bias towards everything being a reflection of your world/reality in its totality, you’d have seen how everyone worth a damn treated Fawn as an adult that was capable and intelligent, just with kindness and a bit of extra care.
The author even added bits to push that her “playing with dolls” and being a little childlike/naive was all mostly just her way of coping with the trauma and distress of her environment/treatment as she grew up.
You know? Where folx treated her like a child and as if she were less-than because she had a bit of a developmental disability, and everyone that was worth a single fuck didn’t like it and could finally change it, so they fucking did?
And she wasn’t a plot device or filler. Y’all just want to be fucking mad for no reason instead of being mad for legit reasons. If this book was based solely on how things work in this reality, in this timeline, then yeah, get mad because that would be fucking gross if it wasn’t handled with respect and considerate representation. But maybe, just maybe, shit is different in a fucking fae/human-esque mashup world.
If you just didn’t like it, say that shit instead, like a grownup. Don’t invent reasons to be angry. Y’all don’t get mad at genocide, but y’all get mad at fantasy disabilities. I cannot stand this planet.
The cousins were a mess, and I truly wish I could’ve seen Afton get her fucking shit rocked, but I get showing the chaos that Huxley created. Did I wish they would’ve featured a little less? Yeah, but only because I was interested in different facets of Dawnchaser life. That WAS Florian’s life, though, and it’s like no one seems to get that.
That was his entire life. His shitty-ass dad, his shitty-ass fucking family, and the bullshit the two caused. And somehow the author managed to get a whole book out of that little pocket of gross by finding ways to make it work for the overarching plot. I find that commendable, considering it could’ve been flat and irrelevant.
Now, what I can’t forgive? Not getting to see Cove stand up to Delta, whom I haven’t liked since the jump. Bad parents are a strong dislike of mine, and bad family just goes right along with that. I wanted to see him get to say his peace. He deserved it after decades of dumb shit. I’m just glad I got to see him finally happy with the whole Kit thing. They both deserved that win.
Healing is so messy but so goddamn beautiful, and I love a book full of it. Plus, these books have had no relationship angst, just outside angst, and that’s my fav. I can’t help it. I’m a soft-ass bitch. I love when the relationship is the anchor, and they battle together.
4.5/5. This one wasn’t as ~m u c h~ as the first one, but it was still more than enough. It had a lot of greatness, and thank fuck it wasn’t ‘daddy’ age gap. Just regular age gap. I’m kinda sick and tired of daddy kink, what with it always being overdone and dry, and made creepy as the very icky maraschino cherry on top. The whole thing is still interesting and pulling at me to keep going so I know the whole story. I love it and I’m champing at the bit to start book three, but I have to do real life shit like cook supper first. Fucking lame.
October 11, 2024
beautifully written, outstanding work
Rating: 5🌈
The Summertide Chronicles is such an excellent , imaginative series. One of the best by Sam Burns, who’s given the readers many incredible worlds and characters to explore and fall into love with.
Dawnchaser is the second in the series, and the author is still exploring the world, the magic, and the threat that’s making it imperative that the four main powerful ruling families come together to find a solution before it’s too late.
For what exactly isn’t exactly clear yet. But that is has to do with changing natural conditions and a rumbling Mount Slate, well it’s sounds ominous enough.
Burns gave us an initial glimpse into the four families as that fiasco of a gathering in Gloombringer. There we met various individuals from the white-haired, imposing Moonstrikers, the dour Gloombringer, the power-mad Dawnchasers, and the wild Sunrunners. Each family able to use their gifts/talents by way of bonding with both an individual sentient crystal and then the head of the House with its most powerful House crystal.
It’s a fascinating, compelling element as the sentient crystals have their own charm and personalities. And, depending upon the person that they are bonded with, a complex relationship between them.
That dynamic is seen here in multiple threads, letting Burns go deeper into the concept of what the crystals might actually be.
Dawnchaser follows up on the traumatic events from Gloombringer, that brings the Moonstriker, Cove, to the Dawnchaser family territory and estates on the mission to hunt and eliminate Huxley Dawnchaser.
Instead,Burns gives us Cove , as well as other members of the Moonstriker family, revisiting an older personal nightmare and understanding that the Dawnchaser’s have been yielding a legacy of even deeper family abuse.
Florian Dawnchaser and his younger sister, Fawn, who’s sensitively portrayed as person with Down syndrome, are beautifully crafted characters, vividly realistic and engaging in every aspect of their storylines. From the beginning of this book, where we and the Moonstrikers see them in a very different way and situation to the development of their personalities and the family dynamics as Cove helps them and himself deal with the trauma that Huxley and the Dawnchaser legacy has created.
It’s just a tremendous novel. There’s so many layers here to appreciate and to feel connected to as multiple characters work together to forge new futures, right the some of the devastating crimes done in the past, and help create hope for the next generation.
I love this series and characters. And can’t wait to see what the next book will bring.
Highly recommended as well as the author.
Love these covers too.
The Summertide Chronicles:
- [x] Gloombringer #1
- [x] Dawnchaser #2
- [ ] Sunrunner #3 - Jan 2, 2025
- [ ] Moonstriker #4 - March 2025
Rating: 5🌈
The Summertide Chronicles is such an excellent , imaginative series. One of the best by Sam Burns, who’s given the readers many incredible worlds and characters to explore and fall into love with.
Dawnchaser is the second in the series, and the author is still exploring the world, the magic, and the threat that’s making it imperative that the four main powerful ruling families come together to find a solution before it’s too late.
For what exactly isn’t exactly clear yet. But that is has to do with changing natural conditions and a rumbling Mount Slate, well it’s sounds ominous enough.
Burns gave us an initial glimpse into the four families as that fiasco of a gathering in Gloombringer. There we met various individuals from the white-haired, imposing Moonstrikers, the dour Gloombringer, the power-mad Dawnchasers, and the wild Sunrunners. Each family able to use their gifts/talents by way of bonding with both an individual sentient crystal and then the head of the House with its most powerful House crystal.
It’s a fascinating, compelling element as the sentient crystals have their own charm and personalities. And, depending upon the person that they are bonded with, a complex relationship between them.
That dynamic is seen here in multiple threads, letting Burns go deeper into the concept of what the crystals might actually be.
Dawnchaser follows up on the traumatic events from Gloombringer, that brings the Moonstriker, Cove, to the Dawnchaser family territory and estates on the mission to hunt and eliminate Huxley Dawnchaser.
Instead,Burns gives us Cove , as well as other members of the Moonstriker family, revisiting an older personal nightmare and understanding that the Dawnchaser’s have been yielding a legacy of even deeper family abuse.
Florian Dawnchaser and his younger sister, Fawn, who’s sensitively portrayed as person with Down syndrome, are beautifully crafted characters, vividly realistic and engaging in every aspect of their storylines. From the beginning of this book, where we and the Moonstrikers see them in a very different way and situation to the development of their personalities and the family dynamics as Cove helps them and himself deal with the trauma that Huxley and the Dawnchaser legacy has created.
It’s just a tremendous novel. There’s so many layers here to appreciate and to feel connected to as multiple characters work together to forge new futures, right the some of the devastating crimes done in the past, and help create hope for the next generation.
I love this series and characters. And can’t wait to see what the next book will bring.
Highly recommended as well as the author.
Love these covers too.
The Summertide Chronicles:
- [x] Gloombringer #1
- [x] Dawnchaser #2
- [ ] Sunrunner #3 - Jan 2, 2025
- [ ] Moonstriker #4 - March 2025
September 12, 2025
In this modern fantasy, the lands are being threatened a volcano threatening to erupt and possibly destroy all of civilization. The leaders of the four families that run the world aren't really paying attention, so a group is trying to recruit them to draw attention to the problem. At the end of volume 1, a nasty murder happens and the killer escapes. The four famlies (Gloombringer, Moonstriker, Dawnchaser, and Sunrunner) agree the killer must be caught and dispatched without delay. Cove Moonstriker, leader of the Moonstriker family, heads to the Dawnchaser lands to do that task. It doesn't help he has a personal aversion to the Dawnchasers due to something that happened to him as a 16 year old.
Florian Dawnchaser is the twenty-something son of Huxley Dawnchaser, the fugitive that Cove Moonstriker is chasing. He and his younger sister have been stifled by their father's opprobrium and abuse, frequently for no reason. When the mid-40-something Cove tells the Dawnchasers all their lands and monies connected to Huxley are forfeit due to his crime, his first reaction is relief. He and Fawn can escape to a better life... except things aren't so easy after Cove tells him he will make it his goal to help set up Florian as the new Dawnstriker... and Florian imagines that pretty well, since he finds the older man very attractive. But then Huxley Dawnstriker and the assorted unlikeable cousins all show up and threatens all of them.
I found this one...just okay. I raised my eyebrow when they're snogging 3 days after meeting, and Cove hasn't expressed any particular interest in the younger man. The lack of any tension between the two characters was a miss. Florian read pretty self-involved in his interior monologues. Like when Huxley calls him, he resolves to inform Cove immediately... and never does. But the story was flowing solidly until about 70%, when they actually hook up, and all plot momentum is lost. The final confrontation was a mess and various plots left fairly unclear.
Eh, I'd rate this about 2 to 2.5. Let's split the difference, 2.25. rounded down to 2 stars.
Florian Dawnchaser is the twenty-something son of Huxley Dawnchaser, the fugitive that Cove Moonstriker is chasing. He and his younger sister have been stifled by their father's opprobrium and abuse, frequently for no reason. When the mid-40-something Cove tells the Dawnchasers all their lands and monies connected to Huxley are forfeit due to his crime, his first reaction is relief. He and Fawn can escape to a better life... except things aren't so easy after Cove tells him he will make it his goal to help set up Florian as the new Dawnstriker... and Florian imagines that pretty well, since he finds the older man very attractive. But then Huxley Dawnstriker and the assorted unlikeable cousins all show up and threatens all of them.
I found this one...just okay. I raised my eyebrow when they're snogging 3 days after meeting, and Cove hasn't expressed any particular interest in the younger man. The lack of any tension between the two characters was a miss. Florian read pretty self-involved in his interior monologues. Like when Huxley calls him, he resolves to inform Cove immediately... and never does. But the story was flowing solidly until about 70%, when they actually hook up, and all plot momentum is lost. The final confrontation was a mess and various plots left fairly unclear.
Eh, I'd rate this about 2 to 2.5. Let's split the difference, 2.25. rounded down to 2 stars.
November 29, 2024
I’m enjoying this series and spending time with each of the families in the lands that make up this world. Cove and Florian’s story is a wonderful mix of romance and drama. I enjoyed seeing Kit again too.
I love the worldbuilding with its mix of fantasy and technology, especially with people bonding with stones that give them abilities, yet have a personality of their own. I liked how this story gave the flip side of those relationships when a stone is bound to someone obnoxious and evil.
I liked how Cove enters the Dawnchaser lands expecting one thing, and finding Florian instead. Their relationship is sweet, and I love how Florian comes into his own. Most of the Dawnchasers are a selfish entitled lot, and it says a lot that Florian and his sister haven’t succumbed to the norm.
I loved Frost, and hope to see more of him. Fawn is sweet, and definitely way more than she’s been given credit for.
The drama and action scenes are tense, especially the final encounter with a thoroughly despicable man. I liked the closure with this part of the story, alongside the beginning of the next.
I love the worldbuilding with its mix of fantasy and technology, especially with people bonding with stones that give them abilities, yet have a personality of their own. I liked how this story gave the flip side of those relationships when a stone is bound to someone obnoxious and evil.
I liked how Cove enters the Dawnchaser lands expecting one thing, and finding Florian instead. Their relationship is sweet, and I love how Florian comes into his own. Most of the Dawnchasers are a selfish entitled lot, and it says a lot that Florian and his sister haven’t succumbed to the norm.
I loved Frost, and hope to see more of him. Fawn is sweet, and definitely way more than she’s been given credit for.
The drama and action scenes are tense, especially the final encounter with a thoroughly despicable man. I liked the closure with this part of the story, alongside the beginning of the next.
January 18, 2025
Taking out the trash
If you liked the first book, you'll like this one, too. Huxley Dawnchaser killed a man and must be dealt with. Cove Moonstriker decides he's the one to do it. It makes some sense. He can use Iri to stop time, which might be able to fight Huxley's luck.
Instead of looking for him methodically, Cove shows up at the Dawnchaser estate and just takes over. Many Dawnchasers are awful about it, but Florian is relieved.
It was great to see Florian step up and Cove loosen up.
The problem is the romance. In the last book, Rain and Adair were well matched. Both intelligent, capable guys. Both powerful. In this one, one guy is older, more confident and capable. Florian feels young and traumatized, not ready for a permanent relationship. Cove seems like he's just waking up. They declare their love three days after their first kiss. Their relationship feels unlikely and inconvenient. I wanted to cringe when they kissed the first time.
Despite the weird romance, I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next.
If you liked the first book, you'll like this one, too. Huxley Dawnchaser killed a man and must be dealt with. Cove Moonstriker decides he's the one to do it. It makes some sense. He can use Iri to stop time, which might be able to fight Huxley's luck.
Instead of looking for him methodically, Cove shows up at the Dawnchaser estate and just takes over. Many Dawnchasers are awful about it, but Florian is relieved.
It was great to see Florian step up and Cove loosen up.
The problem is the romance. In the last book, Rain and Adair were well matched. Both intelligent, capable guys. Both powerful. In this one, one guy is older, more confident and capable. Florian feels young and traumatized, not ready for a permanent relationship. Cove seems like he's just waking up. They declare their love three days after their first kiss. Their relationship feels unlikely and inconvenient. I wanted to cringe when they kissed the first time.
Despite the weird romance, I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next.
March 5, 2025
okay, the worldbuilding still makes very little sense but OMG THIS COUPLE.
When I reached book's 1 50% mark I decided I was invested, so I looked who the future couplings would be. The name Cove stumped me. I thought he was a new character I was not at all prepared for him to be THE Moonstriker, UNCLE Cove.
Damn, I like an age-gap when it's done well, this wasn't flawless, there's some akwardness and some cringey dialogue but for the most part: yesyesyesyesyes Uncle Cove deserves the universe, Florian is close enough.
Again, there's a lack of worldbuilding, everyone is ignoring the impending doom and the evil characters are cartoonish but I still enojoyed this read. It says a lot about a book when I don't really feel like nitpicking every single flaw in the plot because I'm too busy being kinda happy. This books came after a a little slump so the bar was really low, but still I'm already onto book 3 and feeling bad that I have to wait till the end of the month for book 4 to be out :(
When I reached book's 1 50% mark I decided I was invested, so I looked who the future couplings would be. The name Cove stumped me. I thought he was a new character I was not at all prepared for him to be THE Moonstriker, UNCLE Cove.
Damn, I like an age-gap when it's done well, this wasn't flawless, there's some akwardness and some cringey dialogue but for the most part: yesyesyesyesyes Uncle Cove deserves the universe, Florian is close enough.
Again, there's a lack of worldbuilding, everyone is ignoring the impending doom and the evil characters are cartoonish but I still enojoyed this read. It says a lot about a book when I don't really feel like nitpicking every single flaw in the plot because I'm too busy being kinda happy. This books came after a a little slump so the bar was really low, but still I'm already onto book 3 and feeling bad that I have to wait till the end of the month for book 4 to be out :(
October 5, 2024
This was one is definitely best read after Gloombringer. It did take me a while to place all the characters but they did slowly start to come back as I got entranced in Florian and Cove's story. Florian has been overshadowed by his father his entire life. Now Cove has shown up to hold his father accountable for a heinous crime committed in the previous story. Cove hates the Dawnchasers for personal reasons...but the majority of them are awful people. He expects no different from Florian until he starts to spend time with him. I wouldn't say that these two had initial attraction but they do create a really solid foundation and I loved how they came to rely on each other. I really enjoyed this story and seeing all the positive changes that are happening. I can't wait to see what is in store for the last house and the temperamental mountain.
June 11, 2025
I’m liking this author collaboration enough to continue buying the next books coming in this series. The world where four kingdoms are ruled by a family where the head of the family is paired with a stone of power. First book, called GloomBringer, introduced the reader to the politics within the GloomBringer family, the politics between families jostling for greater power and property, and a threat to the future of everyone on the planet. DawnChaser continues the tale in a similar vein but not so similar that the second story is boring. There are challenges to gathering all the family heads and their stone of power to work magic upon the threat of planetary destruction. A process that can only work with all 4 stones and kings together in accord.
I’ll be buying the 3rd book in the series as soon as it’s available.
I’ll be buying the 3rd book in the series as soon as it’s available.
October 6, 2024
Age gap, schmage gap!
There may be a 20ish or so year age gap between the two MC's of the book Cove and Florian but Cove seems younger than his years, and Florian older given what their lives have been. Learning what happened to young Cove, learning more about Kit, and everything else was an unexpected reveal!
Definitely needs read after Gloombringer, as it touches on events on the first book, and characters from the first book are mentioned through out plus the over arcing problem needing solved. Definitely recommend this book.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
There may be a 20ish or so year age gap between the two MC's of the book Cove and Florian but Cove seems younger than his years, and Florian older given what their lives have been. Learning what happened to young Cove, learning more about Kit, and everything else was an unexpected reveal!
Definitely needs read after Gloombringer, as it touches on events on the first book, and characters from the first book are mentioned through out plus the over arcing problem needing solved. Definitely recommend this book.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
April 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. In this arc of the Summertide Chronicles story, Cove appears in the Dawnchaser world to announce that he is claiming its lands, which is news to Florian, the heir of the land. Florian's murderous father has disappeared and Cove is charged with locating him to kill him.
Florian and his sister have suffered for years at the hand of the cruel, abusive father. He will be happy enough to be rid of the man. He is also immediately attracted to Cove, although he's too shy to say so. Still, over time the two men form a relationship of great respect, kindness, and even love while they face the danger together. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Florian and his sister have suffered for years at the hand of the cruel, abusive father. He will be happy enough to be rid of the man. He is also immediately attracted to Cove, although he's too shy to say so. Still, over time the two men form a relationship of great respect, kindness, and even love while they face the danger together. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
October 2, 2025
Dawnchaser pulls the Summertide Chronicles deeper into darkness and family trauma, giving Cove and Florian layers of pain and hope, though the age gap in their otherwise very sweet romance can feel strange at times. The presence of Florian’s sister, Fawn, thoughtfully portrayed as a neurodiverse character, brings a grounded, powerful nuance to the narrative. Some revelations move fast and the plot occasionally leans on heavy exposition, but the emotional resonance and worldbuilding shine. It’s a fiercely human, magic-laced installment that proves this series is building toward something memorable.
September 29, 2024
Lucky
“Florian Dawnchaser, I decided, was no weed, and I wanted to see what he might bloom into given the chance.” And bloom he did when he was shown that the world can be kind, accepting, and beautiful in a myriad of ways, unlike some people. Cove and Florian are refreshing and I loved seeing them both break through their shells. Though for me Fawn is the true star of this book. She is an absolute delight and perfection. I am still patiently awaiting Kit’s book as he has completely stolen my heart and I need his HEA. Until then I’ll continue to enjoy the wonderful world of Summertide.
“Florian Dawnchaser, I decided, was no weed, and I wanted to see what he might bloom into given the chance.” And bloom he did when he was shown that the world can be kind, accepting, and beautiful in a myriad of ways, unlike some people. Cove and Florian are refreshing and I loved seeing them both break through their shells. Though for me Fawn is the true star of this book. She is an absolute delight and perfection. I am still patiently awaiting Kit’s book as he has completely stolen my heart and I need his HEA. Until then I’ll continue to enjoy the wonderful world of Summertide.
October 3, 2024
This is book 2 in the series and must be read in order due to the overlaying arc. This one features Florian and Cove. The book begins with Florian at home with his sister Fawn. Florian is trying to understand why his father killed Oberon Gloombringer. As days go by, he is quite happy that his father is not around. When he meets Cove, sparks flew. This is the start of the story with how they worked on their relationship to their happy ever after. Great world building, heat and chemistry between them. Cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
October 5, 2024
This is the second book in the series; they should be read in order, as there is an overall story arc between the books. Sam Burns has built a paranormal world of complicated politics with amazing and complex characters. Now that Florian and Fawn are out from under their father's thumb, they can grow and become who they are meant to be. Cove and Florian's relationship is truly wonderful. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series, as all the houses come together to save their world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
September 13, 2024I am loving this series! Florian and Fawn, and the rest of the Dawnchaser people honestly, have been victimized their entire life at the hands of a selfish monster. Now they have hope again. Hope that things can be better. Cove is there to help them find their courage again. I adored this story, just like the first one. Cove took me by surprise. I can’t wait to see what happens as the four houses come together to save their world.
October 1, 2024
This was a really good read, and I loved the characters although I wasn't really expecting an age difference romance going in. I felt quite sad for all the main characters in this one (except Huxley, obvs), but especially for the stone, Soz. Fawn was bsolutely delightful, and it was good to see Florian come out of his shell and be leader rather than continuing his father and grandfather's legacy. His cousins were initially absolutely awful, so I'm glad Ivy was able to bring back some of the good ones. Cove's background and trauma explained a lot of how he was portrayed in the first book, and it was great to see him heal and come out of his shell as well. Looking forward to the next!
October 7, 2024
It always take me time to get into these stories. I think its because I am never sure when they are supposed to be set. They are Lords and carry swords but then have cars and computers.
Cove comes to see Florian as he is going to kill his father. Initially he says he is taking over the lands but then later on admits he doesn't have the right and then hands over to Florian.
The whole book takes place in Florians home as we meet other members of his family.
Cove comes to see Florian as he is going to kill his father. Initially he says he is taking over the lands but then later on admits he doesn't have the right and then hands over to Florian.
The whole book takes place in Florians home as we meet other members of his family.
April 1, 2025
interesting characters but…
I finished the first one eventually but I just couldn’t get through this one. The idea of the characters is interesting but the world building is basically nonexistent and it’s just all so repetitive - the exact same phrases and sentences repeated dozens of times. 20% of the book is story and the rest is filler. Just write novellas if you don’t have actual content to flesh a book out. Won’t be finishing the series.
I finished the first one eventually but I just couldn’t get through this one. The idea of the characters is interesting but the world building is basically nonexistent and it’s just all so repetitive - the exact same phrases and sentences repeated dozens of times. 20% of the book is story and the rest is filler. Just write novellas if you don’t have actual content to flesh a book out. Won’t be finishing the series.
April 5, 2025
3.5 stars
This did feel better put together than the first book in the series. I was kinda surprised at the main couple, but that was half the fun. I think the author did a better job developing their story, even if my head was still slightly swimmy with all the politics and such. I rounded up because I always adore peeps who are intentional in their decision to be good. I needed that clear decision to be good now.
This did feel better put together than the first book in the series. I was kinda surprised at the main couple, but that was half the fun. I think the author did a better job developing their story, even if my head was still slightly swimmy with all the politics and such. I rounded up because I always adore peeps who are intentional in their decision to be good. I needed that clear decision to be good now.
May 11, 2025
I had high hopes for this book after the last one but it didn’t quite meet them. The age gap/friends uncle thing wasn’t very leaned into like I expected. The older man Cove was written just like all the other younger guys and didn’t seem his age at all making it seem kind of pointless and unrealistic.
Also the family drama wasn’t very gripping I ended up skimming to get to the next book. Sad because I was very interested in Uncle Cove.
Also the family drama wasn’t very gripping I ended up skimming to get to the next book. Sad because I was very interested in Uncle Cove.
October 3, 2024
Fantastic
Florian and Cove were absolutely perfect for each other.
It was wonderful to see them developing and grow, individually and together.
Florian especially came out of the shadow of his horrible father and was able to realize he was a much better person.
I can't wait for more from this world.
Florian and Cove were absolutely perfect for each other.
It was wonderful to see them developing and grow, individually and together.
Florian especially came out of the shadow of his horrible father and was able to realize he was a much better person.
I can't wait for more from this world.
October 3, 2024
Love the way this series is continuing the action and world building while seamlessly flowing into a new romantic pair. I really adored this pair as age gap is always a favorite of mine. All of characters are still fighting the good fight. Cove started to honestly heal in this episode and Florian is becoming a real leader!
October 5, 2024
hope & healing
Florian and Cove have such a beautiful relationship, and I loved Fawn and Frost, with two very different personalities, balancing them out. The truth about Kit (a favorite character from book one) was a welcomed surprise.
This book feels a bit simpler than the previous, but there’s more going on under the surface for everyone involved.
Florian and Cove have such a beautiful relationship, and I loved Fawn and Frost, with two very different personalities, balancing them out. The truth about Kit (a favorite character from book one) was a welcomed surprise.
This book feels a bit simpler than the previous, but there’s more going on under the surface for everyone involved.
October 5, 2024
As much as I loved the first book, I disliked this book. Im giving it 3 stars only because I love the whole stone premise. This book, tho... Florian actually gave me whiplash with his personality. Plus, Cove and Florian had NO chemistry AT ALL. The author just decided to pull an Insta-love switch from Cove's side to make it work. Meh, boring!
October 5, 2024
Great follow up!
It was so wondrous to immerse myself in this universe again. The world building in this series is absolutely phenomenal. The plot moves along at a great pace, and the characters are all well fleshed out. I’m hoping when the series is complete that the author will offer this in a box set for purchase. (Hint, hint!) Overall, two enthusiastic thumbs up!
It was so wondrous to immerse myself in this universe again. The world building in this series is absolutely phenomenal. The plot moves along at a great pace, and the characters are all well fleshed out. I’m hoping when the series is complete that the author will offer this in a box set for purchase. (Hint, hint!) Overall, two enthusiastic thumbs up!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews