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Dragon Star Saga #2
Shadow Sun
Ren is a gryfess who has always understood the world differently than those around her. Once misfit and unsure of her own path and future, she has secured an honorable place in the pride of the Silver Isles, after helping to save the islands from poison in the water. Now the dragon Suijen has brought a catastrophic prophecy written in stone that seems to foretell the very end of the world ~ a prophecy the princess Embra has asked Ren and Suijen to keep secret from the rest of the gryfon pride.
Despite her misgivings and not wanting to lose her newfound status nor the trust of the princess, Ren keeps the secret. With dangerous starfalls striking the Isles, strange new enemies and fears arising in the pride, and the threat of wildfire in the dry forests, the vague and ancient prophecy seems to be the least of their worries . . . until each event begins to align with those written on the stone.
Now with incomprehensible powers at work, secrets to keep, and every life in the islands to protect, Ren must decide whether to do as she's told by the princess, or risk it all and do as she's told by her heart.
Despite her misgivings and not wanting to lose her newfound status nor the trust of the princess, Ren keeps the secret. With dangerous starfalls striking the Isles, strange new enemies and fears arising in the pride, and the threat of wildfire in the dry forests, the vague and ancient prophecy seems to be the least of their worries . . . until each event begins to align with those written on the stone.
Now with incomprehensible powers at work, secrets to keep, and every life in the islands to protect, Ren must decide whether to do as she's told by the princess, or risk it all and do as she's told by her heart.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2024
About the author
Jess E. Owen
14 books206 followersJess is a professional author and artist. For years she was an Equity Stage Manager in the theatre, but left that life to focus on writing. She is a member and past president of the Authors of the Flathead, an organization of “writers helping writers,” and is a proud member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Jess has been creating works of fantasy art and fiction for over a decade. She lives with her husband in the mountains of northwest Montana, which offer daily inspiration for creating worlds of wise, wild creatures, magic, and adventure. Jess can be contacted directly at, www.jessowen.com
Jess has been creating works of fantasy art and fiction for over a decade. She lives with her husband in the mountains of northwest Montana, which offer daily inspiration for creating worlds of wise, wild creatures, magic, and adventure. Jess can be contacted directly at, www.jessowen.com
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 16, 2024
Okay, where to even start? I've been waiting for this one since reading Dragon Star at the start of Covid, but I still had no expectations. This is a series that's impossible to know what you're going to get beforehand. Jess was very kind and gave me an advanced reader copy and I've been devouring Shadow Sun for the past week, often sneaking off to quiet places during the work breaks to sneak in another chapter.
This is another case where a book has me hooked, not mainly for the story but for how wonderful it is to experience it with the characters. In my opinion, most books fail to create that connection between the characters and the reader. But just like Mercedes Lackey, Jess manages this with everyone in the pride, even the ones I hate. The characters are iconic, and it feels like you know them personally. When you see their names you know what kind of person who's talking.
Dragon Star was good but it feels like it was only scratching the surface of these characters where in Shadow Sun, Jess gives them all time to shine, throwing personal dilemmas on most of them and pushing the pride to the breaking point which worked wonderfully in driving their characters forward.
There are quite a few times I felt scenes weren't pushed to their emotional limit but I also have to remember this is a series for younger audiences than books I usually read. They still deliver a hell of an emotional kick. So basically, if you liked a character in Dragon Star, you'll adore them in Shadow Sun.
I don't want to say too much about the plot as Shadow sun isn't even released yet. But certainly don't expect a countrywide adventure like Lord of the Rings. The plot structure reminds a lot of Kelvren's tale (which is a compliment). It's not the world's most wide story, but it doesn't have to be. The characters make sure of that. It's the story of how well-written characters handle the disastrous situations that they're placed in, which makes them feel realistic. Even when someone is doing something irrational, it still makes sense why they're doing it. Their way of thinking has been established so it makes sense, and no one is without flaws.
Characterization this good is rare in the books I read.
Ren is still the protagonist but shares the role with a few others. Most prominently Eyvindr, who has managed to claw himself into the favorite spot for me. But the story changes POVs to other smaller characters when the plot requires it. That's always a plus . It's also difficult to predict what's going to happen. Something that makes you more curious to keep reading just another chapter. The typical chapter length ( 10-20 minutes each) also helps.
If you've managed to get this far into Jess's Summer King universe. Then you're most likely in it for the long run. Just get this one and read it, no questions asked. It lives up to the quality of all the others. If typos are something that bothers you, know that I found just 2 in the ARC copy, which both have been taken care of.
5/5 stars
This is another case where a book has me hooked, not mainly for the story but for how wonderful it is to experience it with the characters. In my opinion, most books fail to create that connection between the characters and the reader. But just like Mercedes Lackey, Jess manages this with everyone in the pride, even the ones I hate. The characters are iconic, and it feels like you know them personally. When you see their names you know what kind of person who's talking.
Dragon Star was good but it feels like it was only scratching the surface of these characters where in Shadow Sun, Jess gives them all time to shine, throwing personal dilemmas on most of them and pushing the pride to the breaking point which worked wonderfully in driving their characters forward.
There are quite a few times I felt scenes weren't pushed to their emotional limit but I also have to remember this is a series for younger audiences than books I usually read. They still deliver a hell of an emotional kick. So basically, if you liked a character in Dragon Star, you'll adore them in Shadow Sun.
I don't want to say too much about the plot as Shadow sun isn't even released yet. But certainly don't expect a countrywide adventure like Lord of the Rings. The plot structure reminds a lot of Kelvren's tale (which is a compliment). It's not the world's most wide story, but it doesn't have to be. The characters make sure of that. It's the story of how well-written characters handle the disastrous situations that they're placed in, which makes them feel realistic. Even when someone is doing something irrational, it still makes sense why they're doing it. Their way of thinking has been established so it makes sense, and no one is without flaws.
Characterization this good is rare in the books I read.
Ren is still the protagonist but shares the role with a few others. Most prominently Eyvindr, who has managed to claw himself into the favorite spot for me. But the story changes POVs to other smaller characters when the plot requires it. That's always a plus . It's also difficult to predict what's going to happen. Something that makes you more curious to keep reading just another chapter. The typical chapter length ( 10-20 minutes each) also helps.
If you've managed to get this far into Jess's Summer King universe. Then you're most likely in it for the long run. Just get this one and read it, no questions asked. It lives up to the quality of all the others. If typos are something that bothers you, know that I found just 2 in the ARC copy, which both have been taken care of.
5/5 stars
June 17, 2024
I was given the chance to read this awesome book (ARC). It's somehow difficult to describe how good this is. I surely will always enjoy how Jess makes the reader care for every character.
The story got me hooked all the time (which is quite the accomplishment ^^), I love Ren, she is a great character and adds a lot to the series and the Gryfon Pride! It was very pleasing to see her again after many years (IRL).
If you like Xenofiction or Gryfons, do read this series. I sure hope everybody enjoys it as much as I did.
The story got me hooked all the time (which is quite the accomplishment ^^), I love Ren, she is a great character and adds a lot to the series and the Gryfon Pride! It was very pleasing to see her again after many years (IRL).
If you like Xenofiction or Gryfons, do read this series. I sure hope everybody enjoys it as much as I did.
October 8, 2024
This is one of these books that does a fine work of setting expectations and twisting them, both in plot and characters and their relations.
If I already thought highly of the first installment, this one has me embarrassed, because it's taking everything another tier up, but I can't give a higher rating than I already did. On the other hand, this accumulation of five star ratings will begin to look suspicious... but it should not !
The character tropes, how they are used so that no protagonist is really evil or bad, but rather cast into events they can only control so much. Some manage better than others, some don't try too hard, but all of them have their reasons to do so and in the end they're all a really believable and alive cast. It is easy to root for many of those characters, not only the front ones and their sometimes heartbreaking struggles, but even those you would not expect to feel sympathy for at first.
All woven tightly with a plot that has its own twists and surprises, working perfectly toghether, and served by a neat writing that uses just the right amount of description, conversation and images to carry meaning and emotion alike.
As hard as I try, I can't remind myself of any noticeable crack in the edifice. This second book may have come four years after the first, but it is at least as solid as the first, while even more ambitious.
If I already thought highly of the first installment, this one has me embarrassed, because it's taking everything another tier up, but I can't give a higher rating than I already did. On the other hand, this accumulation of five star ratings will begin to look suspicious... but it should not !
The character tropes, how they are used so that no protagonist is really evil or bad, but rather cast into events they can only control so much. Some manage better than others, some don't try too hard, but all of them have their reasons to do so and in the end they're all a really believable and alive cast. It is easy to root for many of those characters, not only the front ones and their sometimes heartbreaking struggles, but even those you would not expect to feel sympathy for at first.
All woven tightly with a plot that has its own twists and surprises, working perfectly toghether, and served by a neat writing that uses just the right amount of description, conversation and images to carry meaning and emotion alike.
As hard as I try, I can't remind myself of any noticeable crack in the edifice. This second book may have come four years after the first, but it is at least as solid as the first, while even more ambitious.
May 31, 2026
I love this book so much!!!!!!!!!! (I love the whole series, in fact!!!) It was so great getting to jump back into this world with all the characters, and it is both a thrilling and also heartwrenching read. So much lore is revealed in this book, so much happens, and I actually had chills running down my spine with each bit of lore that was revealed!! The book has such beautiful themes of friendship and loss. I loved seeing Ren's character develop more in this and also that we get some chapters of Kajsa's POV! Eyvindr is a fantastic protagonist as well, and I love Njord!! And also the ENDING!
I shall never be okay after that ending.
😭
So yes, overall a fantastic series that is very reminiscent of Lord of the Rings and Warriors!!! I'd highly recommend this series to tweens, teens, and adults looking for a fantasy read, especially those who are fans of griffons, dragons, and other magical animals! Fans of Erin Hunter and Sophie Torro will also enjoy this, I think.
Now if you'll excuse me, I shall have to crawl back into the writing cave as I await book three. And I am probably going to pick up book one of The Summer King series as well. XD (Because apparently this is a sequel series to that series and I didn't know that... Why do I always read things out of order? 😂)
I shall never be okay after that ending.
"Promise you will believe in me. Promise me if a fledgling dragon, or perhaps a bird, or a gryfon or a mountain cat comes to you one day and says, 'I knew you in another life, and I loved you...'" he laughed, soft, hard-edged, joyous and sad somehow all at once. "Know that it is me."
😭
So yes, overall a fantastic series that is very reminiscent of Lord of the Rings and Warriors!!! I'd highly recommend this series to tweens, teens, and adults looking for a fantasy read, especially those who are fans of griffons, dragons, and other magical animals! Fans of Erin Hunter and Sophie Torro will also enjoy this, I think.
Now if you'll excuse me, I shall have to crawl back into the writing cave as I await book three. And I am probably going to pick up book one of The Summer King series as well. XD (Because apparently this is a sequel series to that series and I didn't know that... Why do I always read things out of order? 😂)
January 2, 2025
"Promise you will believe in me. Promise me if a fledgling dragon, or perhaps a bird, or a gryfon or a mountain cat comes to you one day and says, 'I knew you in another life, and I loved you...'" he laughed, soft, hard-edged, joyous and sad somehow all at once. "Know that it is me."
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
THAT ENDING. Oh my god, I will never be okay again.
This book had a very slow start, and that is really the only reason the rating is not higher. In the grand scheme of things, very little plot progression occurred, although there were some great hints of what is to come in the rest of the series. I LOVE possession/reanimation plots, and since it looks like there might some of that in the future, I am very excited.
Talking about this book alone, I was thrilled to see Ren and Suijen confirming their queerplatonic relationship, as the only thing harder to find than aromantic or asexual representation is QPR representation. I was very touched by their scene at the Daynight and it made this book ever more emotional for me.
Some of the other characters felt less endearing in this book than the last (I feel that I found myself bothered by everyone at some point), but Ren and Suijen were both precious and made it a much better read. This makes me somewhat concerned for the series moving forward, as I think the first arc had a much better established cast than this one does. I suppose I will just have to wait and see in the end.
I am excited for the next one! Hopefully it will come out sooner than later.
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
THAT ENDING. Oh my god, I will never be okay again.
This book had a very slow start, and that is really the only reason the rating is not higher. In the grand scheme of things, very little plot progression occurred, although there were some great hints of what is to come in the rest of the series. I LOVE possession/reanimation plots, and since it looks like there might some of that in the future, I am very excited.
Talking about this book alone, I was thrilled to see Ren and Suijen confirming their queerplatonic relationship, as the only thing harder to find than aromantic or asexual representation is QPR representation. I was very touched by their scene at the Daynight and it made this book ever more emotional for me.
Some of the other characters felt less endearing in this book than the last (I feel that I found myself bothered by everyone at some point), but Ren and Suijen were both precious and made it a much better read. This makes me somewhat concerned for the series moving forward, as I think the first arc had a much better established cast than this one does. I suppose I will just have to wait and see in the end.
I am excited for the next one! Hopefully it will come out sooner than later.
April 10, 2025
This book made me sick with grief. Genuinely felt like throwing up after finishing it. This is a very high compliment.
October 18, 2025
I am a critical reviewer. I believe I look at books fairly, rate them fairly, and review them fairly. It's NOT rare for me to give a five-star review on something, but it IS rare to wish I could give a book more than five stars.
Shadow Sun is a book about friendship and loss. Of love and complexity. And it's one of the best books I've ever read about those things. Honestly, that would be all I'd need to say about this book besides an encouragement for everyone to read this immediately and without delay. Seriously, don't just buy this book and add it to your TBR. Buy it and read it now, because I guarantee it's everything you're looking for in a story.
I don't want to discuss the story itself with this review, but tell you why, exactly, you should read this book. And I'm going to start with the dragons.
Yes, this book is about gryfons, which are written beautifully, and have so many deep layers and cultures that I love getting the chance to explore. They are fully fleshed out and wonderful in their own right, which makes the other species added alongside them--whether to support or as main characters--all the more appealing. The dragons in this world are so delightfully tragic and joyful at the same time. I love reading about them while also being unable to help mourning for them. How cool is it to have a whole species whose lifespan is only a year? Ren, the main character in Shadow Sun and the book before it, will live through fifty generations of dragons in her lifetime, which is just incredible to me. And while dragons do inherit pieces of those who came before them, each individual has such a small window of life on the planet.
Every moment of their life is filled with so much meaning.
I am absolutely obsessed with the implications of this, and my interest of the dragon, Suijen, had a huge payoff in this very story. And Suijen's love of Ren, and her love of him, was so beautiful and touching that it made me miss the days of friendship and camaraderie in fantasy books. There is a huge vacuum where tales of friendship should fit within the genre, and this book filled it to overflowing.
This is also true in the relationship between Ren and the king's son, Tyrilar. Tyrilar really looks up to Ren, and she's ecstatic that he appreciates her work and wants to help. Tyrilar's guardian, Eyvindr, still sees him as a youngster who needs protecting, but with Tyrilar being in his teens (relatively speaking) he's really big on striking out on his own and discovering himself. He feels capable and wants to be trusted, which comes into play in a huge way. It's nice to see characters proving their worth and actually having others recognize them for it!
Shadow Sun is also not afraid of COMPLEX relationships, such as the one between Ren and Tove. Not going to say too much about that, but I am interested to see how that develops, if it does at all.
Along the line of complex relationships, though, there's one trope in this book that I LOVE. It's always been one of my favorites, because it speaks to the challenges of friendship and the very idea that no one person can be right all the time. It's summed up in this quote:
"It was a difficult time," Catori murmured. "But that is the riddle of the Summer King, of the Silver Wind. he had to go against his own friends, his family, his pride, to follow what he believed was right. That is far more difficult than going against someone you view as an enemy."
I just love that sort of theming in stories, because it really his difficult. And then, of course, it gets into the question of what's right, and what you might damage by doing what you feel is right--even if it means going against your friends. There's always a huge tempation to support whatever your friends say or do, because arguing with them may very well cost you friendships. I have seen so many people agree with their friends just because it's expected of them, when true friendships sometimes mean telling your friends they're wrong.
Another thing I love about this book (and all books in this series and the one before it) is that there are no good guys and bad guys. As with life, most people have a reason for doing what they do. We as people can look at those things and agree or disagree with them. We can find them personally good or evil. But Shadow Sun leaves that up to the reader to decide, while presenting nuance that leaves room for thought. Ren and Embra are mostly "good" as far as readers might be concerned, but they do bad things. Embra especially is guilty of lying (for what she believes is a good reason) and Ren is complicit in that lie because she is afraid of losing the respect and friendship she has with Embra.
This is a difference from moral greyness, in which characters are neither good nor bad but somewhere between. Ren is undoubtedly the hero in this book. It's just that she doesn't have the straight paragonship that a lot of fantasy authors will assign to their characters. She is allowed to make mistakes, and is more interesting for it.
There are also a couple antagonist characters that are not conventionally evil, nor do they do particularly evil things. Kajsa is absolutely an antagonist to Embra's leadership, but she is also terribly rebuffed by Embra to the point where she feels outcast, which leads her to doing things she might not have done otherwise. It's amazing to have POV chapters with Kajsa, to experience her thoughts and what she's personally going through, and how she really does care for those around her and wants to do her best by them. She's sort of a heartbreaking antagonist, with very complex reasons for doing what she does.
There is also the character, Oslar, who isn't evil at all, and may still eventually prove himself. But he is annoying, and does do dangerous and somewhat reprehensible things, and is clearly attempting to live off his name and relationships alone. He is the cousin of a king and expects to coast on that title. This is directly opposite to Embra, the daughter and heir of a king, who probably does more than she should, and doesn't do enough to keep herself safe.
Without going into the details of the story--because you should all experience that for yourself--it looks like the Dragon Star saga is going into even more of the world's lore, where it comes to mystical forces that govern nature. The first series (the Summer King Chronicles) did go into a lot of this, but as expected, there's even more to explore. I am looking forward to learning more about these forces, and I'm earnestly hoping for many more novels in this world to explore it all!
There was one point around 30% in where I had a "holy crap!!!" moment, where I realized what might have been going on before it was explicitly stated in the book, and the payoff of that was really enjoyable. I really love when books set something up for readers to discover, and then DON'T do a weird twist where none of the foreshadowing mattered. Foreshadowing needs to matter, and it really does in Shadow Sun.
I also want to point out that I sat down with the intent to read this in pieces so I could more adequately formulate a review, especially since this is for an ARC. In fact, I planned to spend exactly an hour at midnight reading it so I could go to sleep and wake up at a reasonable time for work the next morning.
However, 1:00 am passed, and I said "just a little more." Then it was 2am. Then 3, 4, and 5. Finally, at 6:30, with 91% of the book completed, I had to give up on the notion that I could put it down. So I finished it, then got up and got ready for work without having slept at all.
It's very rare that a book does that to me. Usually I can tell myself that it's time to put it down and get some sleep, but the pacing is so perfect that there's ALWAYS a part where I "just have to know what happens next."
Anyway, there are so many wonderful moments in this book, and so many wonderful characters that I know anyone who picks it up will love it as much as I did.
Shadow Sun is a book about friendship and loss. Of love and complexity. And it's one of the best books I've ever read about those things. Honestly, that would be all I'd need to say about this book besides an encouragement for everyone to read this immediately and without delay. Seriously, don't just buy this book and add it to your TBR. Buy it and read it now, because I guarantee it's everything you're looking for in a story.
I don't want to discuss the story itself with this review, but tell you why, exactly, you should read this book. And I'm going to start with the dragons.
Yes, this book is about gryfons, which are written beautifully, and have so many deep layers and cultures that I love getting the chance to explore. They are fully fleshed out and wonderful in their own right, which makes the other species added alongside them--whether to support or as main characters--all the more appealing. The dragons in this world are so delightfully tragic and joyful at the same time. I love reading about them while also being unable to help mourning for them. How cool is it to have a whole species whose lifespan is only a year? Ren, the main character in Shadow Sun and the book before it, will live through fifty generations of dragons in her lifetime, which is just incredible to me. And while dragons do inherit pieces of those who came before them, each individual has such a small window of life on the planet.
Every moment of their life is filled with so much meaning.
I am absolutely obsessed with the implications of this, and my interest of the dragon, Suijen, had a huge payoff in this very story. And Suijen's love of Ren, and her love of him, was so beautiful and touching that it made me miss the days of friendship and camaraderie in fantasy books. There is a huge vacuum where tales of friendship should fit within the genre, and this book filled it to overflowing.
This is also true in the relationship between Ren and the king's son, Tyrilar. Tyrilar really looks up to Ren, and she's ecstatic that he appreciates her work and wants to help. Tyrilar's guardian, Eyvindr, still sees him as a youngster who needs protecting, but with Tyrilar being in his teens (relatively speaking) he's really big on striking out on his own and discovering himself. He feels capable and wants to be trusted, which comes into play in a huge way. It's nice to see characters proving their worth and actually having others recognize them for it!
Shadow Sun is also not afraid of COMPLEX relationships, such as the one between Ren and Tove. Not going to say too much about that, but I am interested to see how that develops, if it does at all.
Along the line of complex relationships, though, there's one trope in this book that I LOVE. It's always been one of my favorites, because it speaks to the challenges of friendship and the very idea that no one person can be right all the time. It's summed up in this quote:
"It was a difficult time," Catori murmured. "But that is the riddle of the Summer King, of the Silver Wind. he had to go against his own friends, his family, his pride, to follow what he believed was right. That is far more difficult than going against someone you view as an enemy."
I just love that sort of theming in stories, because it really his difficult. And then, of course, it gets into the question of what's right, and what you might damage by doing what you feel is right--even if it means going against your friends. There's always a huge tempation to support whatever your friends say or do, because arguing with them may very well cost you friendships. I have seen so many people agree with their friends just because it's expected of them, when true friendships sometimes mean telling your friends they're wrong.
Another thing I love about this book (and all books in this series and the one before it) is that there are no good guys and bad guys. As with life, most people have a reason for doing what they do. We as people can look at those things and agree or disagree with them. We can find them personally good or evil. But Shadow Sun leaves that up to the reader to decide, while presenting nuance that leaves room for thought. Ren and Embra are mostly "good" as far as readers might be concerned, but they do bad things. Embra especially is guilty of lying (for what she believes is a good reason) and Ren is complicit in that lie because she is afraid of losing the respect and friendship she has with Embra.
This is a difference from moral greyness, in which characters are neither good nor bad but somewhere between. Ren is undoubtedly the hero in this book. It's just that she doesn't have the straight paragonship that a lot of fantasy authors will assign to their characters. She is allowed to make mistakes, and is more interesting for it.
There are also a couple antagonist characters that are not conventionally evil, nor do they do particularly evil things. Kajsa is absolutely an antagonist to Embra's leadership, but she is also terribly rebuffed by Embra to the point where she feels outcast, which leads her to doing things she might not have done otherwise. It's amazing to have POV chapters with Kajsa, to experience her thoughts and what she's personally going through, and how she really does care for those around her and wants to do her best by them. She's sort of a heartbreaking antagonist, with very complex reasons for doing what she does.
There is also the character, Oslar, who isn't evil at all, and may still eventually prove himself. But he is annoying, and does do dangerous and somewhat reprehensible things, and is clearly attempting to live off his name and relationships alone. He is the cousin of a king and expects to coast on that title. This is directly opposite to Embra, the daughter and heir of a king, who probably does more than she should, and doesn't do enough to keep herself safe.
Without going into the details of the story--because you should all experience that for yourself--it looks like the Dragon Star saga is going into even more of the world's lore, where it comes to mystical forces that govern nature. The first series (the Summer King Chronicles) did go into a lot of this, but as expected, there's even more to explore. I am looking forward to learning more about these forces, and I'm earnestly hoping for many more novels in this world to explore it all!
There was one point around 30% in where I had a "holy crap!!!" moment, where I realized what might have been going on before it was explicitly stated in the book, and the payoff of that was really enjoyable. I really love when books set something up for readers to discover, and then DON'T do a weird twist where none of the foreshadowing mattered. Foreshadowing needs to matter, and it really does in Shadow Sun.
I also want to point out that I sat down with the intent to read this in pieces so I could more adequately formulate a review, especially since this is for an ARC. In fact, I planned to spend exactly an hour at midnight reading it so I could go to sleep and wake up at a reasonable time for work the next morning.
However, 1:00 am passed, and I said "just a little more." Then it was 2am. Then 3, 4, and 5. Finally, at 6:30, with 91% of the book completed, I had to give up on the notion that I could put it down. So I finished it, then got up and got ready for work without having slept at all.
It's very rare that a book does that to me. Usually I can tell myself that it's time to put it down and get some sleep, but the pacing is so perfect that there's ALWAYS a part where I "just have to know what happens next."
Anyway, there are so many wonderful moments in this book, and so many wonderful characters that I know anyone who picks it up will love it as much as I did.
June 24, 2024
Been reading this series for a long time, so I'm honored to be a part of the ARC team!
Ren is a dragon-blessed gryfon from the Dawn Spire, a pride of gryfons working together to make their pride strong. Ren struggles to fit in however. She’s less interested in hunting or finding a mate and far more interested in the minerals, science, and mysteries of her home. In the previous book, Rise of the Dragon Star, Ren was chosen among others to fly to the Silver Isles and continue building the alliance with the Summer King’s pride there. Though she faces many of the struggles there that she did at home.
After quite an adventure in the previous novel, Ren has even more challenges ahead. But this time, she’s a little more established and has made friends with more gryfons from the pride, including one of the young princes. She also has a dear dragon friend, Suijen, who is often the voice of reason for Ren when her curiosity takes her too far.
There’s new evils and problems to face now as Ren uncovers a dragon prophesy about the end of the world. Ren believes there’s a logical answer to everything and that this “end of the world” situation can be explained through this logic. This book is her journey trying to find the balance between science and magic while trying to help protect the gryfon pride she’s learning to love.
Without giving too much away, there was SO MUCH HERE for me to love. Ren reads, to me, as neurodivergent, trying to fit into a world that struggles to understand her alternative ways of thinking, which really speaks to me personally. Ren believes in kindness, second chances, and giving people the benefit of the doubt, though she often makes rash decisions, which have a variety of consequences.
A book cover for the book Shadow Sun featuring a blue gryfon flying under a solar eclipse.
Her friendship with Suijen though is my absolute favorite. They share an incredible, deep bond and celebrate it in wonderful ways and AHH! I’m a sucker for deep, platonic friendships.
This book also made me cry… again. >> I think this is at least the third or fourth time I’ve cried from one of Jess’s books.
This book also represents a small shift in the story. In previous books, most of the conflict has been a result of misunderstanding or cultural grudges or incorrectly told history and none of the characters are solidly evil. They’re mostly just fighting for survival in a world that struggles with cultural divides. This book though introduces more concrete antagonistic forces, which is a good balance for the way Ren works to find herself.
Overall, I’d definitely give Shadow Sun the five stars it deserves. Can’t wait to hold this precious book in my hands!
Ren is a dragon-blessed gryfon from the Dawn Spire, a pride of gryfons working together to make their pride strong. Ren struggles to fit in however. She’s less interested in hunting or finding a mate and far more interested in the minerals, science, and mysteries of her home. In the previous book, Rise of the Dragon Star, Ren was chosen among others to fly to the Silver Isles and continue building the alliance with the Summer King’s pride there. Though she faces many of the struggles there that she did at home.
After quite an adventure in the previous novel, Ren has even more challenges ahead. But this time, she’s a little more established and has made friends with more gryfons from the pride, including one of the young princes. She also has a dear dragon friend, Suijen, who is often the voice of reason for Ren when her curiosity takes her too far.
There’s new evils and problems to face now as Ren uncovers a dragon prophesy about the end of the world. Ren believes there’s a logical answer to everything and that this “end of the world” situation can be explained through this logic. This book is her journey trying to find the balance between science and magic while trying to help protect the gryfon pride she’s learning to love.
Without giving too much away, there was SO MUCH HERE for me to love. Ren reads, to me, as neurodivergent, trying to fit into a world that struggles to understand her alternative ways of thinking, which really speaks to me personally. Ren believes in kindness, second chances, and giving people the benefit of the doubt, though she often makes rash decisions, which have a variety of consequences.
A book cover for the book Shadow Sun featuring a blue gryfon flying under a solar eclipse.
Her friendship with Suijen though is my absolute favorite. They share an incredible, deep bond and celebrate it in wonderful ways and AHH! I’m a sucker for deep, platonic friendships.
This book also made me cry… again. >> I think this is at least the third or fourth time I’ve cried from one of Jess’s books.
This book also represents a small shift in the story. In previous books, most of the conflict has been a result of misunderstanding or cultural grudges or incorrectly told history and none of the characters are solidly evil. They’re mostly just fighting for survival in a world that struggles with cultural divides. This book though introduces more concrete antagonistic forces, which is a good balance for the way Ren works to find herself.
Overall, I’d definitely give Shadow Sun the five stars it deserves. Can’t wait to hold this precious book in my hands!
June 21, 2024
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
As I’ve said before, reading these books just feels like a big hug!
This was pretty slow paced- it even felt like a slice of life story at some points- but I think that really worked in its favour because I really enjoyed all of the characters and just seeing their dynamics with each other. They all felt super unique and like real people! I think my favourite was Ren because I just found her point of view to be really relatable, though I liked Eyvindr’s journey too and Kajsa was also a really fascinating character- I feel simultaneously very sorry for her and dislike her for her choices! I love it when stories can give me conflicting feelings about characters.
Though a lot of it felt like set-up, the wider plot of this saga is also becoming more prominent in this second instalment and I can't wait to see how it develops. Jess has done a fantastic job at building tension and intrigue! I love these characters so much I don't want anything bad to happen to them, but I fear my hopes may be dashed.
The world as ever is really wonderfully written. I love how a lot of the magic of it is under the surface, but always present and interwoven into the story beautifully. This did mean that some aspects of it were slightly confusing but it is magic so I didn’t mind that too much!
I won't say too much about it but ending was that perfect mixture of sad and hopeful- bittersweet! I can’t wait to read more about Ren’s journey and see how the wider plot will develop!
There's a kickstarter for this book running at the moment, so go give it your support- you won't regret it!
As I’ve said before, reading these books just feels like a big hug!
This was pretty slow paced- it even felt like a slice of life story at some points- but I think that really worked in its favour because I really enjoyed all of the characters and just seeing their dynamics with each other. They all felt super unique and like real people! I think my favourite was Ren because I just found her point of view to be really relatable, though I liked Eyvindr’s journey too and Kajsa was also a really fascinating character- I feel simultaneously very sorry for her and dislike her for her choices! I love it when stories can give me conflicting feelings about characters.
Though a lot of it felt like set-up, the wider plot of this saga is also becoming more prominent in this second instalment and I can't wait to see how it develops. Jess has done a fantastic job at building tension and intrigue! I love these characters so much I don't want anything bad to happen to them, but I fear my hopes may be dashed.
The world as ever is really wonderfully written. I love how a lot of the magic of it is under the surface, but always present and interwoven into the story beautifully. This did mean that some aspects of it were slightly confusing but it is magic so I didn’t mind that too much!
I won't say too much about it but ending was that perfect mixture of sad and hopeful- bittersweet! I can’t wait to read more about Ren’s journey and see how the wider plot will develop!
There's a kickstarter for this book running at the moment, so go give it your support- you won't regret it!
September 13, 2024
This was my most anticipated book for the last four years. Every couple of months I checked social media to see if there was any news on Shadow Sun. With the wait grew the worries that maybe the series would be abandoned, or that the author's heart would be somewhere else.
All of these worries were unfounded. What a glorious return to the Silver Isles. The start of the book left me a bit mystified as to what was happening, but after events started unfolding I could not stop reading.
My favorite thing about this series is how the author manages to create drama and conflict without relying on an antagonist that the reader is supposed to hate. Every character is just someone trying to do what they think is best. This left me rooting for every character, either to succeed in their efforts or to see they were wrong.
I also love the whole universe, the different species, their mythology, stories, and customs. My favorite are the dragons and how they are so different from other works of fiction.
I'll eagerly await the next installment of the series. If the next book is on the same level as this one, I'll gladly wait another four years again.
All of these worries were unfounded. What a glorious return to the Silver Isles. The start of the book left me a bit mystified as to what was happening, but after events started unfolding I could not stop reading.
My favorite thing about this series is how the author manages to create drama and conflict without relying on an antagonist that the reader is supposed to hate. Every character is just someone trying to do what they think is best. This left me rooting for every character, either to succeed in their efforts or to see they were wrong.
I also love the whole universe, the different species, their mythology, stories, and customs. My favorite are the dragons and how they are so different from other works of fiction.
I'll eagerly await the next installment of the series. If the next book is on the same level as this one, I'll gladly wait another four years again.
June 12, 2024
I was honored to be chosen to preview Shadow Sun, and I admit to being mildly skeptical that it would hold up to the original series - it's very common for these animal adventure type books to lose quality when they enter a new arc with new characters, and while I enjoyed Rise of the Dragon Star quite a bit, I wasn't convinced that I would come to care for the characters as much as I did in the original series.
Shadow Sun proved otherwise quickly - not only was the writing and storytelling so good I completely forgot I was reading a book (which is hard to do, with how easily distracted I am) and could barely put it down, but choices made by characters at the height of the story was enough to move me to tears. Definitely building its way into standing among my favorite Xenofiction series, and I wasn't disappointed in the least. I will be waiting the next book in the series with a lot of anticipation.
Shadow Sun proved otherwise quickly - not only was the writing and storytelling so good I completely forgot I was reading a book (which is hard to do, with how easily distracted I am) and could barely put it down, but choices made by characters at the height of the story was enough to move me to tears. Definitely building its way into standing among my favorite Xenofiction series, and I wasn't disappointed in the least. I will be waiting the next book in the series with a lot of anticipation.
June 29, 2026
An excellent continuation!
Book Two of the second series kept the streak going as well! The main character, Ren became almost as relatable as the previous series one, Shard. The other characters and the plot and continuity were great. Just as emotional, I expected such an ending but it still hit me hard. Overall, enjoyable and heartwarming and bittersweet. I'll try to be patient for the next story to be written!
Book Two of the second series kept the streak going as well! The main character, Ren became almost as relatable as the previous series one, Shard. The other characters and the plot and continuity were great. Just as emotional, I expected such an ending but it still hit me hard. Overall, enjoyable and heartwarming and bittersweet. I'll try to be patient for the next story to be written!
August 25, 2024
A lovely continuation to a thought-provoking series. While I very much enjoyed getting to see more of the Silver Isles, which we didn't get to see as much of in The Summer King Chronicles, the constant striving to do what is right in the face of turmoil was probably my favorite aspect. It is a key theme in many series, but is perfectly highlighted in this book. I will always recommend these books, as they are not only enjoyable but hit on major real-world issues that we all face each day and have to decide if we will Rise Higher and See Farther.
September 23, 2024
I know what to expect from Jess's stories, and this delivers. Charming characters, a surprisingly deep and meaningful plot, and a wonderful setting. Heartbreaking at times, but ever positive as the characters work together against this great threat.
Very eager for book 3!
Very eager for book 3!
June 1, 2026
There were some scenes in this book that were just so ridiculously beautiful and haven't left my head since I finished. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
August 13, 2024
**Full disclosure: I was provided an advance review copy by the author.**
This book marks a beautiful return to Jess's world of gryfons and wolves, a play between the natural world seen through others' eyes, and just the right amount of fantasy. While I think it could be read on its own, I do recommend reading Rise of the Dragon Star before this one to help with context. If you want the full understanding of prior events referenced, I would start with the Summer King Chronicles, but I think the Dragon Star series can stand on its own if you feel like leaping right in.
Fans of the Summer King series who may have felt that the first book, while still very enjoyable, felt a little slower to gather its direction than the original series, will be happy to know momentum is back full force in the second instalment of the Dragon Star Saga. Dire warnings and strange phenomenon and higher stakes gripping the Silver Isles, all with new secrets to learn which could be the key to saving wolf, gryfon, and hoofbeast alike.
Through Ren's eyes we get a whole new perspective on the culture of the isles, how it has changed since the time of the Summer King, what struggles it still faces. An analytical mind given to science. But where lies the balance between science and faith? And is that balance the key to finding a way forward? What is the price of fear? Along what new lines can a pride be divided if hearts grow too guarded and weary? What is the cure?
The book does give us a good landing point while we wait, I think, for those worried about plunging ahead too fast. Questions answered, still more asked, and I very much look forward to wherever the next book is going.
This book marks a beautiful return to Jess's world of gryfons and wolves, a play between the natural world seen through others' eyes, and just the right amount of fantasy. While I think it could be read on its own, I do recommend reading Rise of the Dragon Star before this one to help with context. If you want the full understanding of prior events referenced, I would start with the Summer King Chronicles, but I think the Dragon Star series can stand on its own if you feel like leaping right in.
Fans of the Summer King series who may have felt that the first book, while still very enjoyable, felt a little slower to gather its direction than the original series, will be happy to know momentum is back full force in the second instalment of the Dragon Star Saga. Dire warnings and strange phenomenon and higher stakes gripping the Silver Isles, all with new secrets to learn which could be the key to saving wolf, gryfon, and hoofbeast alike.
Through Ren's eyes we get a whole new perspective on the culture of the isles, how it has changed since the time of the Summer King, what struggles it still faces. An analytical mind given to science. But where lies the balance between science and faith? And is that balance the key to finding a way forward? What is the price of fear? Along what new lines can a pride be divided if hearts grow too guarded and weary? What is the cure?
The book does give us a good landing point while we wait, I think, for those worried about plunging ahead too fast. Questions answered, still more asked, and I very much look forward to wherever the next book is going.
July 13, 2024
Another tale about our favorite Gryfons of the Silver Isles, with stakes higher than ever. This time, more than just the wellbeing of our main heros is on the line, it appears the end of the Silver Isles or the whole world may be near.
But despite an apocalyptic backdrop, the main story is again about the characters, about friendship and love, loyalty and betrayal, insecurities and bravery, and about young gryfons finding their place in the world.
Highly recommended - join the pride and read the series!
But despite an apocalyptic backdrop, the main story is again about the characters, about friendship and love, loyalty and betrayal, insecurities and bravery, and about young gryfons finding their place in the world.
Highly recommended - join the pride and read the series!
July 16, 2025
"Let us show them we believe there will be a tomorrow, and a spring, even if not everyone sees it."
There is a moral to be read in Shadow Sun, that we are a part of one anothers' lives (and, our own) for such a brief, fleeting time that while we shouldn't live dangerously, we should live unapologetically true to ourselves. That by being yourself unabashedly you may inspire those around you to do the same. It ties into the theme of the first Saga, that it's only by knowing the other that you truly know yourself, deep down, and to me, that is by far a striking message that more of us need to take to heart. Especially moreso nowadays. I can count on one hand the amount of times that reading something has changed my outlook on the world, or adopted into my own affirmations in a way, but Shadow Sun definitely made the cut.
There is a moral to be read in Shadow Sun, that we are a part of one anothers' lives (and, our own) for such a brief, fleeting time that while we shouldn't live dangerously, we should live unapologetically true to ourselves. That by being yourself unabashedly you may inspire those around you to do the same. It ties into the theme of the first Saga, that it's only by knowing the other that you truly know yourself, deep down, and to me, that is by far a striking message that more of us need to take to heart. Especially moreso nowadays. I can count on one hand the amount of times that reading something has changed my outlook on the world, or adopted into my own affirmations in a way, but Shadow Sun definitely made the cut.
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