What do you think?
Rate this book
The Song of Sunrise
Perfect for fans of
Fourth Wing, Zodiac Academy
,
Fall of Ruin and Wrath
and
The Witcher
,
THE SONG OF SUNRISE
is a plot-forward fantasy romance with enemies-to-lovers, open door spice, deadly trials, and found family set at a magical war academy in a distant post-apocalyptic North America.
The alliance between humans, elves, and underlings is beginning to fracture, and yet, apprentice bard Akemi Nox never expected her biggest performance to end in a bloodbath.
Fueled by vengeance, Akemi enrolls in a brutal military academy that trains the most lethal human magic channelers. There, a ruthless championship begins, with a legendary relic promised to the victor. Winning isn’t just a chance at justice—it’s the only way to protect what little she has left.
As political tensions flare and an unexpected attraction threatens her focus, Akemi finds herself surrounded by enemies and haunted by the past she can’t outrun. Her only path forward is through the arena.
To survive, she must win.
To win, she’ll have to become something far more dangerous than anyone ever expected.
The alliance between humans, elves, and underlings is beginning to fracture, and yet, apprentice bard Akemi Nox never expected her biggest performance to end in a bloodbath.
Fueled by vengeance, Akemi enrolls in a brutal military academy that trains the most lethal human magic channelers. There, a ruthless championship begins, with a legendary relic promised to the victor. Winning isn’t just a chance at justice—it’s the only way to protect what little she has left.
As political tensions flare and an unexpected attraction threatens her focus, Akemi finds herself surrounded by enemies and haunted by the past she can’t outrun. Her only path forward is through the arena.
To survive, she must win.
To win, she’ll have to become something far more dangerous than anyone ever expected.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2025
65 people are currently reading
1936 people want to read
About the author
Monica J. DeLoy
1 book37 followersMonica’s background as a trained singer, coupled with bachelor’s degree in music, infuses her narratives with rich musical themes. She lives in the upper midwest, and draws inspiration for her settings from the northern, forest-clad climate. Beyond writing, she is a mother, wife, full-time worker (in a field kept mysterious), and dance choreographer.
Her work spans from fantasy, sci-fi, to romance and promises to sweep readers into an immersive world where love and magic intertwine. The Song of Sunrise is her debut novel.
Her work spans from fantasy, sci-fi, to romance and promises to sweep readers into an immersive world where love and magic intertwine. The Song of Sunrise is her debut novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
August 20, 2025
First of all, Ms. Deloy, you 100% violated the treaty with the killing blow from that ending! Second of all, um…. More please?
This book was a damn delight to read. Part D&D adventure, part dark academia with a life-altering (and sometimes ending) competition, this had all the right pieces to hook and sink me. The magic system was so unique and well-thought out, I absolutely loved the way it played into the school setting and with the watchers. And that opening… wow, what an absolute gut punch of a way to start the story. I also particularly loved seeing bards get some much needed love in an adventure story!
Pacing and action was fantastic, nice and fast with just enough time in between for a little romance and intrigue. And the yearning… the yearning was out in FULL force. (Not gonna lie, Heru and Nightmare are now my new mascots, thank you very much.) The way Monica Deloy writes the frustration Akemi feels when she’s underestimated or treated as less than because she’s a woman. Let me tell you, I felt that in my BONES. She doesn’t give an inch, even when it’s friends or her new-found family doing it, either. I loved how genuine that felt.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It really has a bit of everything for everyone. Just watch out for that ending… it’s a hell of a drop. (No, I’m not still salty at that cliffhanger. Ok. Yes, I am. DAMN. It hurts so good, though!)
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #thesongofsunrise #thenerdfam
This book was a damn delight to read. Part D&D adventure, part dark academia with a life-altering (and sometimes ending) competition, this had all the right pieces to hook and sink me. The magic system was so unique and well-thought out, I absolutely loved the way it played into the school setting and with the watchers. And that opening… wow, what an absolute gut punch of a way to start the story. I also particularly loved seeing bards get some much needed love in an adventure story!
Pacing and action was fantastic, nice and fast with just enough time in between for a little romance and intrigue. And the yearning… the yearning was out in FULL force. (Not gonna lie, Heru and Nightmare are now my new mascots, thank you very much.) The way Monica Deloy writes the frustration Akemi feels when she’s underestimated or treated as less than because she’s a woman. Let me tell you, I felt that in my BONES. She doesn’t give an inch, even when it’s friends or her new-found family doing it, either. I loved how genuine that felt.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It really has a bit of everything for everyone. Just watch out for that ending… it’s a hell of a drop. (No, I’m not still salty at that cliffhanger. Ok. Yes, I am. DAMN. It hurts so good, though!)
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #thesongofsunrise #thenerdfam
September 9, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
The vibes were VIBING.
I had so much fun reading this. For me, there’s just something about war academy / deadly trials that sucks me right in. Add in a bard (we love an unexpected hero) and an underworld lord and I’m completely invested. I’m obsessed with Nightmare also 😬
The magic system was unique and captivating. I feel like there’s still so much more that can be explored in the most exciting way.
Akemi is relatable and easy to like, and I love the relationship between her and Atlys. The way they balance each other is swoony perfection. I actually really enjoyed that there was just a bit of spice thrown in, in way that didn’t take over the storyline.
The ending though. I’m absolutely done for. I need to know what happens next 😭😭
Thank you so much to the author and The Nerd Fam for the ARC. I’m so happy to have been able to read this and add it to my bookshelf 😍
The vibes were VIBING.
I had so much fun reading this. For me, there’s just something about war academy / deadly trials that sucks me right in. Add in a bard (we love an unexpected hero) and an underworld lord and I’m completely invested. I’m obsessed with Nightmare also 😬
The magic system was unique and captivating. I feel like there’s still so much more that can be explored in the most exciting way.
Akemi is relatable and easy to like, and I love the relationship between her and Atlys. The way they balance each other is swoony perfection. I actually really enjoyed that there was just a bit of spice thrown in, in way that didn’t take over the storyline.
The ending though. I’m absolutely done for. I need to know what happens next 😭😭
Thank you so much to the author and The Nerd Fam for the ARC. I’m so happy to have been able to read this and add it to my bookshelf 😍
August 25, 2025
I was utterly captivated by this book. Such a unique and refreshing twist to a fantasy romance.
Akemi Nox is a FMC whose resilience, determination, and evolution stole my heart. Far from the weak human others underestimated, she transforms from a bard singing of battles to a warrior fighting in them. As someone who cherishes music and sang in a choir during my youth, I instantly connected with Akemi. Her ability to weave her musical talent through the academy’s deadly trials was both riveting and awe-inspiring.
Then there’s Atlys, tall, with pale blond hair, dark swirling tattoos, piercings, and WINGS. Can’t forget, he’s a shadow-and-earth-wielding MMC, dark and dangerous, checking every box. They call him “The Soul Eater” 🥵. From the moment he spoke, I was HOOKED. The slow-burn tension between him and Akemi is a tantalizing dance, building with intensity that makes it all worth it. We also can’t forget about the cutest magical creature, Heru, I loved her so much.
The writing was well- paced and gave vivid descriptions that brought the politics, magic, fractured alliances, and found families to life. We also have Faes, humans, and underworld beings in this post-apocalyptic world. The magical order (The Guard) divided into Sun Watchers, Moon Watchers, and the rarest, Star Watchers— as reimagined warriors who help keep a balance. This story had mystery, high stakes, dark academia, celestial magic, undying loyalty, and a gripping plot- everything I needed.
If you’re a fan of Fourth Wing, The Hunger Games, The Witcher, or Zodiac Academy, I think this would be perfect for you.
Thank you to the author for the ARC, I am so happy I found you! 💫 You outdone yourself in this debut, and can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us. That ending had me reeling for more.
Akemi Nox is a FMC whose resilience, determination, and evolution stole my heart. Far from the weak human others underestimated, she transforms from a bard singing of battles to a warrior fighting in them. As someone who cherishes music and sang in a choir during my youth, I instantly connected with Akemi. Her ability to weave her musical talent through the academy’s deadly trials was both riveting and awe-inspiring.
Then there’s Atlys, tall, with pale blond hair, dark swirling tattoos, piercings, and WINGS. Can’t forget, he’s a shadow-and-earth-wielding MMC, dark and dangerous, checking every box. They call him “The Soul Eater” 🥵. From the moment he spoke, I was HOOKED. The slow-burn tension between him and Akemi is a tantalizing dance, building with intensity that makes it all worth it. We also can’t forget about the cutest magical creature, Heru, I loved her so much.
The writing was well- paced and gave vivid descriptions that brought the politics, magic, fractured alliances, and found families to life. We also have Faes, humans, and underworld beings in this post-apocalyptic world. The magical order (The Guard) divided into Sun Watchers, Moon Watchers, and the rarest, Star Watchers— as reimagined warriors who help keep a balance. This story had mystery, high stakes, dark academia, celestial magic, undying loyalty, and a gripping plot- everything I needed.
If you’re a fan of Fourth Wing, The Hunger Games, The Witcher, or Zodiac Academy, I think this would be perfect for you.
Thank you to the author for the ARC, I am so happy I found you! 💫 You outdone yourself in this debut, and can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us. That ending had me reeling for more.
August 26, 2025
4.5 ✨
Monica… that was rude. That was really fucking rude. How dare you end it on a cliffhanger of that magnitude? I’ll be sending you my therapy bill 😭
The beginning was a little slow, but honestly it felt necessary…, all that setup laid the groundwork for the world, the characters, and the stakes. Once the trials kicked off, though? The whole book lit on fire. The pacing snapped into place, and I was flying through chapters like I was running from an Underling myself.
This story balances bardic heart with brutal reality of grief, resilience, and the determination to carve out your own worth in a world that wants to silence you. It’s heavy with loss but also full of magic, banter, and the kind of found family bonds that sneak into your chest and take root. By the end, I was equal parts enchanted, gutted, and very, very mad at that last page.
Tropes you’ll find:
🎭 Bard as the hero
🗡 Found family on the road
✨ Magic-wielding guardians
🥀 Grief meets resilience
🚪 Trials, ruins, and political intrigue
You might like this book if you enjoy:
•Epic quests with emotional weight
•Slow builds that explode into action
•Banter, sparks, and slow-burn bonds
•Cliffhangers that will ruin your week
Monica… that was rude. That was really fucking rude. How dare you end it on a cliffhanger of that magnitude? I’ll be sending you my therapy bill 😭
The beginning was a little slow, but honestly it felt necessary…, all that setup laid the groundwork for the world, the characters, and the stakes. Once the trials kicked off, though? The whole book lit on fire. The pacing snapped into place, and I was flying through chapters like I was running from an Underling myself.
This story balances bardic heart with brutal reality of grief, resilience, and the determination to carve out your own worth in a world that wants to silence you. It’s heavy with loss but also full of magic, banter, and the kind of found family bonds that sneak into your chest and take root. By the end, I was equal parts enchanted, gutted, and very, very mad at that last page.
Tropes you’ll find:
🎭 Bard as the hero
🗡 Found family on the road
✨ Magic-wielding guardians
🥀 Grief meets resilience
🚪 Trials, ruins, and political intrigue
You might like this book if you enjoy:
•Epic quests with emotional weight
•Slow builds that explode into action
•Banter, sparks, and slow-burn bonds
•Cliffhangers that will ruin your week
September 4, 2025
Let's talk about The Song of Sunrise by Monica J Deloy.
In essence the premise of this book sounded really good. We have a young FMC who is a bard (which is rather unique in most romantasy books) and were bound to know that eventually she's going to be entering into a military academy that will make her go through a set of "deadly" trials. It has all the makings for a good ride.
But it falls flat. The characters are underdeveloped, the plot is a mess, and the trials are not...deadly. It feels as though all the tropes were tossed in: enemies to lovers (not even close), forced proximity (okay sure but not with the MMC as one would think), and one bed at the inn (again, not with the MMC or so it would be). I really wanted to like this book, but it just didn't deliver.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the ARC and for my open and honest feedback.
✨ Touch her and die
✨ He Falls First
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Deadly Trials
✨ Military Academy
✨ Magic Wielding
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
Series: Book 1 of _
In essence the premise of this book sounded really good. We have a young FMC who is a bard (which is rather unique in most romantasy books) and were bound to know that eventually she's going to be entering into a military academy that will make her go through a set of "deadly" trials. It has all the makings for a good ride.
But it falls flat. The characters are underdeveloped, the plot is a mess, and the trials are not...deadly. It feels as though all the tropes were tossed in: enemies to lovers (not even close), forced proximity (okay sure but not with the MMC as one would think), and one bed at the inn (again, not with the MMC or so it would be). I really wanted to like this book, but it just didn't deliver.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the ARC and for my open and honest feedback.
✨ Touch her and die
✨ He Falls First
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Deadly Trials
✨ Military Academy
✨ Magic Wielding
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
Series: Book 1 of _
September 11, 2025
That ending!! Now I have to wait for book 2. 💀
Atlys, the MMC, is everything you need in a book boyfriend! Equal parts dark & brooding and thoughtful & protective. "Your light is so peaceful...like the stillness of morning before the sun fully rises. You quiet them, and I'm devastated to know why." Yes, please!
Akemi, the FMC, is her own little cheerleader pushing herself to be her best badass self. "I can do this. Be someone worth Telling, Akemi. Marrow would want this for you." She starts out as a Prentice Teller under Marrow's tutelage but is quickly convinced to join the Watchers with Leaf and Castor. (Als0, complete missed opportunity with a why choose/one bed trope, just saying! 👀)
The war academy feels steeped in traditions, rivalries, and just enough mystery to keep you locked in. The politics layered with old magic in a post-apocalyptic setting keeps everything feeling tense and enchanting at the same time. Humans, elves, and underlings all vying for the win at the Stone Ceremony. Though I didn't love that only the humans were able to compete, even if the other races could choose their champions. Also, huge bonus points for the creatures that gave this a smidge of a whimsical vibe: Miki, the Master Librarian's cat; Heru, the sassy Roc; and Nightmare, the tarthill who should be named Daydream.
The magic system feels very similar to other fantasy novels I've read and there wasn't enough difference to make it feel fresh to me, but it definitely worked well with the world. I'm hoping book 2 expands it and gives it more of a unique spin.
The blurb mentions enemies-to-lovers, but I'd call it more reluctant allies-to-lovers. Either way, the banter was top tier, the "touch her and die" energy was *chef's kiss*, and the spice was well balanced. If you love magical academy settings with deadly trials, a strong FMC, and picking up a new book boyfriend, then this is worth picking up.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #thesongofsunrise #thenerdfam
Atlys, the MMC, is everything you need in a book boyfriend! Equal parts dark & brooding and thoughtful & protective. "Your light is so peaceful...like the stillness of morning before the sun fully rises. You quiet them, and I'm devastated to know why." Yes, please!
Akemi, the FMC, is her own little cheerleader pushing herself to be her best badass self. "I can do this. Be someone worth Telling, Akemi. Marrow would want this for you." She starts out as a Prentice Teller under Marrow's tutelage but is quickly convinced to join the Watchers with Leaf and Castor. (Als0, complete missed opportunity with a why choose/one bed trope, just saying! 👀)
The war academy feels steeped in traditions, rivalries, and just enough mystery to keep you locked in. The politics layered with old magic in a post-apocalyptic setting keeps everything feeling tense and enchanting at the same time. Humans, elves, and underlings all vying for the win at the Stone Ceremony. Though I didn't love that only the humans were able to compete, even if the other races could choose their champions. Also, huge bonus points for the creatures that gave this a smidge of a whimsical vibe: Miki, the Master Librarian's cat; Heru, the sassy Roc; and Nightmare, the tarthill who should be named Daydream.
The magic system feels very similar to other fantasy novels I've read and there wasn't enough difference to make it feel fresh to me, but it definitely worked well with the world. I'm hoping book 2 expands it and gives it more of a unique spin.
The blurb mentions enemies-to-lovers, but I'd call it more reluctant allies-to-lovers. Either way, the banter was top tier, the "touch her and die" energy was *chef's kiss*, and the spice was well balanced. If you love magical academy settings with deadly trials, a strong FMC, and picking up a new book boyfriend, then this is worth picking up.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #thesongofsunrise #thenerdfam
September 12, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
Summary:
The Song of Sunrise by Monica J DeLoy is a fast-paced fantasy romance set in a magical war academy in a fractured, post-apocalyptic North America. Apprentice bard Akemi Nox never expected to be swept into a brutal military academy where magic, vengeance, and survival collide. As deadly trials and ruthless championships unfold, Akemi must face enemies, unravel her past, and resist unexpected attraction. With the future of fragile alliances at stake, her only path forward is through the arena—where victory means survival, but survival may demand becoming something darker than she ever imagined.
⸻
Tropes & Vibes:
🏰 Magical war academy
🧝 Humans, elves & fractured alliances
👩👩👦 Found family feels
🥀 Deadly trials
⏳ Fast-paced, plot-forward fantasy
💔 Haunted by the past
🌑 Post-apocalyptic danger
⸻
Review
I first discovered Monica on Instagram, and her bright, energetic personality immediately stood out. The passion she poured into talking about her book made me know I had to read it. I may be a little late with my review, but I’m so grateful for the ARC—thank you! I had such a fun time with this story. The worldbuilding was easy to slip into, and the pacing kept me hooked.
That said, I actually wish it had been longer. I saw Monica mention that the book was edited down to about 100,000 words, but honestly, I’d love for her to write even more. I wanted deeper detail, especially into Akemi’s backstory and life before the academy. The fast pace worked, but I could have happily lingered in this world.
And that ending? Completely threw me for a loop—I cannot wait to see where book two takes us.
Summary:
The Song of Sunrise by Monica J DeLoy is a fast-paced fantasy romance set in a magical war academy in a fractured, post-apocalyptic North America. Apprentice bard Akemi Nox never expected to be swept into a brutal military academy where magic, vengeance, and survival collide. As deadly trials and ruthless championships unfold, Akemi must face enemies, unravel her past, and resist unexpected attraction. With the future of fragile alliances at stake, her only path forward is through the arena—where victory means survival, but survival may demand becoming something darker than she ever imagined.
⸻
Tropes & Vibes:
🏰 Magical war academy
🧝 Humans, elves & fractured alliances
👩👩👦 Found family feels
🥀 Deadly trials
⏳ Fast-paced, plot-forward fantasy
💔 Haunted by the past
🌑 Post-apocalyptic danger
⸻
Review
I first discovered Monica on Instagram, and her bright, energetic personality immediately stood out. The passion she poured into talking about her book made me know I had to read it. I may be a little late with my review, but I’m so grateful for the ARC—thank you! I had such a fun time with this story. The worldbuilding was easy to slip into, and the pacing kept me hooked.
That said, I actually wish it had been longer. I saw Monica mention that the book was edited down to about 100,000 words, but honestly, I’d love for her to write even more. I wanted deeper detail, especially into Akemi’s backstory and life before the academy. The fast pace worked, but I could have happily lingered in this world.
And that ending? Completely threw me for a loop—I cannot wait to see where book two takes us.
September 9, 2025
Oh my goodnessssss!? What an amazing debut novel 😩😍 this book is so perfect for those who enjoyed the show and books of the The Witcher but meets Fourth Wing and Zodiac Academy ✨ like if they had a baby it would be this Romantasy read 🖤✨
This was an exhilarating take on a fantasy romance that will enthrall you right away! The writing and descriptions felt so clear and real to where I would picture myself in this world Monica created and I absolutely love that when I read any fantasy book.
I absolutely loved Akemi! This girl is strong and fierce! She will definitely be going on your list of favorite FMCs because she is badass coded!
Don’t get me started on Atlys!? Imaginable dark tattoos and a WING daddy!? 😩🔥 shadow daddy alert who is definitely on my list of top book BFs because the energy he brings to the table and tension is unbeaten! I very much enjoyed getting to know him in this book and I absolutely need more of him!
This book has some of the best tropes that you can’t walk away from I mean you have everything in here in it’s own unique fresh way and the ending will break you but in the best way possible! 🥹🖤
Thank you so much Monica for allowing me to read your debut in advance and happy release day! This is definitely going on my trophy shelf because she deserves all the LOVE! 😍
This was an exhilarating take on a fantasy romance that will enthrall you right away! The writing and descriptions felt so clear and real to where I would picture myself in this world Monica created and I absolutely love that when I read any fantasy book.
I absolutely loved Akemi! This girl is strong and fierce! She will definitely be going on your list of favorite FMCs because she is badass coded!
Don’t get me started on Atlys!? Imaginable dark tattoos and a WING daddy!? 😩🔥 shadow daddy alert who is definitely on my list of top book BFs because the energy he brings to the table and tension is unbeaten! I very much enjoyed getting to know him in this book and I absolutely need more of him!
This book has some of the best tropes that you can’t walk away from I mean you have everything in here in it’s own unique fresh way and the ending will break you but in the best way possible! 🥹🖤
Thank you so much Monica for allowing me to read your debut in advance and happy release day! This is definitely going on my trophy shelf because she deserves all the LOVE! 😍
August 3, 2025
“I’ve seen enough sunrises to know the beginnings of a story when I see one.”
Welcome to a war academy where power is earned, secrets are currency, and survival isn’t guaranteed. 👀
This isn’t just any academy. The Watch is a battleground built atop a shattered legacy of ancient magic and hidden agendas. Here, deadly trials are the norm, and the magical order of Moon Watchers, Sun Watchers, and the elusive, nearly forgotten Star Watchers is wrapped in mystery and myth. With humans, fae, and otherworldly beings caught in a web of fractured alliances and silent wars, the deeper you go, the more the truth begins to unravel and you’re left wondering what’s next ✨
Enter our girl Akemi Nox. Small, underestimated, and absolutely unstoppable. I LOVE HER. 😫🙌🏼 Her arc is everything you want in a heroine. Fierce, vulnerable, and evolving. Watching her rise through brutal challenges was everything. She’s proof that power isn’t always loud, sometimes it burns quiet and deep... until it explodes.
Also Atlys?! 😮💨🥵. Dark, dangerous, and devastatingly compelling. If “shadow daddy” means anything to you, just know, he delivers. The tension, the energy, THE AURA!? UNMATCHED. ✨✨✨ ( he’s huge you guys. and he has wings 👀 )
From falling in love with Heru, to the beautiful found family & friendships Akemi stumbles into, this book has everything I crave. Mystery, high stakes, aching magic, fierce loyalty, and characters you want to fight beside (or fall for).
If you’re into Fourth Wing energy with a bit of The Hunger Games grit, and a fresh twist all its own, this one’s DEFINITELY your next obsession.
This was a next level debut, and I can’t WAIT to see where you take us next!!
Welcome to a war academy where power is earned, secrets are currency, and survival isn’t guaranteed. 👀
This isn’t just any academy. The Watch is a battleground built atop a shattered legacy of ancient magic and hidden agendas. Here, deadly trials are the norm, and the magical order of Moon Watchers, Sun Watchers, and the elusive, nearly forgotten Star Watchers is wrapped in mystery and myth. With humans, fae, and otherworldly beings caught in a web of fractured alliances and silent wars, the deeper you go, the more the truth begins to unravel and you’re left wondering what’s next ✨
Enter our girl Akemi Nox. Small, underestimated, and absolutely unstoppable. I LOVE HER. 😫🙌🏼 Her arc is everything you want in a heroine. Fierce, vulnerable, and evolving. Watching her rise through brutal challenges was everything. She’s proof that power isn’t always loud, sometimes it burns quiet and deep... until it explodes.
Also Atlys?! 😮💨🥵. Dark, dangerous, and devastatingly compelling. If “shadow daddy” means anything to you, just know, he delivers. The tension, the energy, THE AURA!? UNMATCHED. ✨✨✨ ( he’s huge you guys. and he has wings 👀 )
From falling in love with Heru, to the beautiful found family & friendships Akemi stumbles into, this book has everything I crave. Mystery, high stakes, aching magic, fierce loyalty, and characters you want to fight beside (or fall for).
If you’re into Fourth Wing energy with a bit of The Hunger Games grit, and a fresh twist all its own, this one’s DEFINITELY your next obsession.
This was a next level debut, and I can’t WAIT to see where you take us next!!
September 9, 2025
Akemi is a certifiable badass and an absolute force to be reckoned with! She is not your stereotypical MC, she works hard for what she gets and sets goals for herself to make sure she can achieve them. She isn't just retelling stories, but crafting one of her own, proving to everyone she is destined to be more than just a Teller. I enjoyed the story and the world building, the magic system is also very unique and I can't wait for everyone to be able to read this when it releases! It started out so strong and you were instantly drawn in.
Akemi is a Teller who passes stories along and knows how to captivate and audience, which she will use in her favor when she joins the military academy with her new friends Leaf and Castor. There is romance, intrigue, mysteries, and so much more. Oh, and the MMC is a broody shadow wielder who calls Akemi, "my sunshine." Need I say more?
The only issue I had was the pacing, sometimes it just felt like everything happened so fast. Besides that the book was absolutely fantastic and I can't wait to see where their story goes.
Tropes:
- Touch her and die
- Nickname calling
- He is the enemy
- Deadly Trials
- Spice (though minimal)
- Tension
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #theimratitrials #thenerdfam
Akemi is a Teller who passes stories along and knows how to captivate and audience, which she will use in her favor when she joins the military academy with her new friends Leaf and Castor. There is romance, intrigue, mysteries, and so much more. Oh, and the MMC is a broody shadow wielder who calls Akemi, "my sunshine." Need I say more?
The only issue I had was the pacing, sometimes it just felt like everything happened so fast. Besides that the book was absolutely fantastic and I can't wait to see where their story goes.
Tropes:
- Touch her and die
- Nickname calling
- He is the enemy
- Deadly Trials
- Spice (though minimal)
- Tension
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #theimratitrials #thenerdfam
August 24, 2025
2.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book has a lot of promise. But oh boy is it messy. The premise is cool, I like the bard perspective, but it’s like it took elements from Harry Potter, Fourth Wing, urban fantasy, and mixed it all together. The book struggled to find a voice. I didn’t hate it, just didn’t resonate well with me.
I did like the 🌶️ scene and the trials were cool.
This book has a lot of promise. But oh boy is it messy. The premise is cool, I like the bard perspective, but it’s like it took elements from Harry Potter, Fourth Wing, urban fantasy, and mixed it all together. The book struggled to find a voice. I didn’t hate it, just didn’t resonate well with me.
I did like the 🌶️ scene and the trials were cool.
October 18, 2025
Why are we all sleeping on this book? This was a fantastic read and I can't believe it's not on more people's radars! There's a shadow daddy, a magic training academy, a dangerous competition, mystery and intrigue, fighting and battles, and enchanted creatures!
Some background on the story - Song of Sunrise is a romantasy primarily set in a magical war academy. The world is in a future time following the collapse of the old world, which revealed multiple realms inhabitated by mystical creatures like elves, and dangerous underlings. A treaty secured a truce and cooperation between the realms, yet all is not peaceful especially for the humans who are the weakest. The humans reformed their society with important roles like Watchers (who use magic to protect others) and Tellers (who share lessons of the past through oral storytelling and music). The magic war academy trains Watchers, and brings together representatives from the different realms to select champions who compete against one another as part of continuing the peace treaty. Our FMC, Akemi, is introduced to us as a Teller but soon finds herself at the Watcher academy, and suddenly thrust into the exciting yet dangerous world of training, alongside uncovering mysteries and secrets held between the different realms.
There's a couple different threads of romance in the story, and the main one is a bit of a slow burn with intense tension. The MMC is a dangerous shadow daddy, yet also irresistible of course, not to mention protective and possessive. They have several tension and teasing scenes, which leads up to a spicy scene, only the one but lets hope we see more in the next book because they have incredible chemistry together!
The friendships in the story are beautiful, a lot of found family vibes and building up the relationships through intense shared experiences. There is also a lot of action in the sense of fights and battles, and the core storyline is about this competition at their academy so plenty more action in all the training and preparation for that plus the actual competition itself. If you enjoyed training, lessons, and camaraderie aspects of Fourth Wing, you will like this too (although I personally enjoyed the story of this one more than that series).
The book overall has great pacing, right from the first page it really starts off with a bang, and that keeps up throughout the whole book. There is a cliffhanger (so rough on me haha), and I cannot wait to see what happens next in the story. I also am looking forward to learning more about the world and its history (I love how things are revealed in little glimpses throughout), and am so ready to explore more of the realms.
I received this as an ARC through The Nerd Fam.
Some background on the story - Song of Sunrise is a romantasy primarily set in a magical war academy. The world is in a future time following the collapse of the old world, which revealed multiple realms inhabitated by mystical creatures like elves, and dangerous underlings. A treaty secured a truce and cooperation between the realms, yet all is not peaceful especially for the humans who are the weakest. The humans reformed their society with important roles like Watchers (who use magic to protect others) and Tellers (who share lessons of the past through oral storytelling and music). The magic war academy trains Watchers, and brings together representatives from the different realms to select champions who compete against one another as part of continuing the peace treaty. Our FMC, Akemi, is introduced to us as a Teller but soon finds herself at the Watcher academy, and suddenly thrust into the exciting yet dangerous world of training, alongside uncovering mysteries and secrets held between the different realms.
There's a couple different threads of romance in the story, and the main one is a bit of a slow burn with intense tension. The MMC is a dangerous shadow daddy, yet also irresistible of course, not to mention protective and possessive. They have several tension and teasing scenes, which leads up to a spicy scene, only the one but lets hope we see more in the next book because they have incredible chemistry together!
The friendships in the story are beautiful, a lot of found family vibes and building up the relationships through intense shared experiences. There is also a lot of action in the sense of fights and battles, and the core storyline is about this competition at their academy so plenty more action in all the training and preparation for that plus the actual competition itself. If you enjoyed training, lessons, and camaraderie aspects of Fourth Wing, you will like this too (although I personally enjoyed the story of this one more than that series).
The book overall has great pacing, right from the first page it really starts off with a bang, and that keeps up throughout the whole book. There is a cliffhanger (so rough on me haha), and I cannot wait to see what happens next in the story. I also am looking forward to learning more about the world and its history (I love how things are revealed in little glimpses throughout), and am so ready to explore more of the realms.
I received this as an ARC through The Nerd Fam.
September 16, 2025
A world built on the crumbles of society as we once knew it. Hundreds of years after technology and back to basics, there now exists magic and magical beings.
Akemi Nox is a prentice teller and is in training to learn the practice of story telling, an important skill and practice amongst the new world in order to spread news and share history.
But is being a teller her destiny?
The growth of Akemi throughout the book is apparent, through her training, education and her levels of trust.
While I did find some parts of this book slow, I enjoyed when the plot picked up and held my interest with clever turns and surprises.
The world building was immersive and side characters were memorable.
If you’re interested in:
Enemies to Lovers
Magical Systems
Other Character POV
Magical Characters
Academy Setting
Training
You’ll enjoy this book.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC
Akemi Nox is a prentice teller and is in training to learn the practice of story telling, an important skill and practice amongst the new world in order to spread news and share history.
But is being a teller her destiny?
The growth of Akemi throughout the book is apparent, through her training, education and her levels of trust.
While I did find some parts of this book slow, I enjoyed when the plot picked up and held my interest with clever turns and surprises.
The world building was immersive and side characters were memorable.
If you’re interested in:
Enemies to Lovers
Magical Systems
Other Character POV
Magical Characters
Academy Setting
Training
You’ll enjoy this book.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC
August 27, 2025
4.5
So for me, the book is a 4.5 star only because it took me a little bit to get into it. The world building in the beginning. I feel like it will matter more as the book goes on as the series continues. I feel like it was more of a world building now that I’ve seen the end of the book , but it took me a minute to like the characters and about halfway it became so much action and I truly felt connected to the characters that now when it ends on such a cliffhanger, I am truly worried forAkemi and what the Jord Lord is going to end up doing to her. Is he gonna find out that he’s the reason she started all of this I mean it’s just wild and now they know her ability they have seen what she can do. It’s like I’m sitting on the edge of my seat like praying that our main character is OK and that atlas gets there. I didn’t think I was gonna like Atlas as much as I do, but as the book went on, I started to truly like him the musical aspect of it and the teller aspect. I love when a girl goes from being a small character in her own story wishing she had more to becoming what she dreamed of and talked about and thought of she becomes it and I just love those kind of books academic settings war college animal sidekicks the whole 9 yards it’s got it all and The found family is truly wonderful. I can’t wait to find out more. I feel like the rest of this series will be five star for me. I think I just need more and I may end up thinking this is a five star once I read more because once I got more through it, it truly became such an engaging story I couldn’t put it down
So for me, the book is a 4.5 star only because it took me a little bit to get into it. The world building in the beginning. I feel like it will matter more as the book goes on as the series continues. I feel like it was more of a world building now that I’ve seen the end of the book , but it took me a minute to like the characters and about halfway it became so much action and I truly felt connected to the characters that now when it ends on such a cliffhanger, I am truly worried forAkemi and what the Jord Lord is going to end up doing to her. Is he gonna find out that he’s the reason she started all of this I mean it’s just wild and now they know her ability they have seen what she can do. It’s like I’m sitting on the edge of my seat like praying that our main character is OK and that atlas gets there. I didn’t think I was gonna like Atlas as much as I do, but as the book went on, I started to truly like him the musical aspect of it and the teller aspect. I love when a girl goes from being a small character in her own story wishing she had more to becoming what she dreamed of and talked about and thought of she becomes it and I just love those kind of books academic settings war college animal sidekicks the whole 9 yards it’s got it all and The found family is truly wonderful. I can’t wait to find out more. I feel like the rest of this series will be five star for me. I think I just need more and I may end up thinking this is a five star once I read more because once I got more through it, it truly became such an engaging story I couldn’t put it down
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ 2.5 🌶️
“Why me?” she asks, her voice breathless and low. “Because I see you,” I admit. Her gaze widens at my comment. “I see the fire beneath your skin. The soul hidden underneath.”
This was so easily devourable 👏🏼 Akemi was such a fun and relatable FMC that got thrown into a magical school with deadly trials. I loved that this wasn’t another 700 page fantasy book (don’t get me wrong I love those) but it was fast paced and action packed.
Akemi was trying to be a bard but got thrown into a magical school with deadly trials and was resilient as ever trying to get through all her challenges. She is not your typical stabby FMC in a fantasy book but I loved her and how relatable she was. And Atyls 🙂↕️ our dark underling lord 🥵
BUT THE CLIFFHANGER 😭 Monica make it better please im crying and i need to know what happens next 😫
“Why me?” she asks, her voice breathless and low. “Because I see you,” I admit. Her gaze widens at my comment. “I see the fire beneath your skin. The soul hidden underneath.”
This was so easily devourable 👏🏼 Akemi was such a fun and relatable FMC that got thrown into a magical school with deadly trials. I loved that this wasn’t another 700 page fantasy book (don’t get me wrong I love those) but it was fast paced and action packed.
Akemi was trying to be a bard but got thrown into a magical school with deadly trials and was resilient as ever trying to get through all her challenges. She is not your typical stabby FMC in a fantasy book but I loved her and how relatable she was. And Atyls 🙂↕️ our dark underling lord 🥵
BUT THE CLIFFHANGER 😭 Monica make it better please im crying and i need to know what happens next 😫
September 17, 2025
Bard turned BADASS 🔥 i freaking loved it! I loved how despite losing everything, the FMC just rolls with it and moves on. Keeps going and doesn’t give up. And i loved how the MMC i expected was NOT what we ended with 😏 MMC was just DELICIOUS. I need moorrreeeeee
Thank you Nerdfam and Deloy for gifting me this copy.
Thank you Nerdfam and Deloy for gifting me this copy.
September 14, 2025
Oh my goodness, this book. This is my new obsession.
I have been in a 2 month reading slump, and oh man, this book took me right out of it, I read this in a single sitting / day.. I could NOT put it down, even while eating dinner.. oops.. I was literally hooked from the start.
It was literally so enthralling, cuz like.. WHAT DID SHE PUT IN THIS BOOK?! IM OBSESSED.
I loved everything about this book, it felt like it was made for me.. like it from my wildest dreams. It literally had all of my favorite tropes.
The plot was plotting.. so immersive and .. the trials?! it was such an interesting way of doing them, it had me feeling like i was there. The magic system was so fresh and creative, it was awesome.
Akemi, I loved how we got to see her grow and develop over the book and become this strong, determined and fierce girl. Coming from being a bard, which btw is something i have never seen done in a book which was literally so cool to see how a bard transformed into a true warrior.. and how she still incorporated her love for storytelling and even songs into her adventures. Definitely loved how she wasn’t the normal warrior born girl, it was refreshing to see something different and I fell in love with her, she’s up there for my favorite FMCs.
Don’t even get me started on Atlys😩
Every scene he was in had me swooning and SCREAMING.. that man is a poet i swear, he constantly had me at a loss for words.. like are we joking? This man btw is a shadow daddy, mysterious, tattooosss?! WINGS!! DING 🛎️ DING 🛎️ DING 🛎️ we have a winner!!! definitely my new obsession. I actually can’t stop thinking about him.. 🤫
THE TENSIONNNN UGHHHH HELLOOO?? YALL DONT EVEN KNOOOWWW
I’m not ashamed to say, i shed a few tears at one point. I just felt so connected to these characters and the book itself, which doesn’t often much.. It’s rare for me to feel this deeply about a book, and boy, this one was everything i needed to get me out of my slump. A mix of everything i love. I couldn’t have asked for a better book to bring me out of my slump.. BUT MAN THAT ENDING.. NEED THE NEXT BOOK IMMEDIATELY!! PLEASE!!🙏
(literally had me staring at my wall for a good 5 minutes..)
I highlighted literally everything i could, im not kidding, 90% of it was highlighted i swear.
Everyone needs to put down everything else and read this 👏
________________________________________________
Some quotes to give you a little taste😉
(GO READ IT🫵🫵)
"You're a fragile little thing, yet you burn as hot as the Core.”
"I like you best when you let your flame burn, my
Sunrise.”
"Do you miss the sunlight.” I ask
"Not anymore"
"Why?"
"Because I have you, my Sunrise.”
"If I am your God, then you are the center of my universe.”
________________________________________________
Tropes:
⚔️Fierce female lead
🏹Deadly trials/games
🔪War academy
⛓️Complicated love interests (love triangle??👀)
🖤Secretive MMC
🎻Bard turned warrior FMC
🗡️Morally grey characters
🗝️Shadowy powers
👥Found family
🌙Celestial magic system
✨political intrigue; elves, humans, and the underworld
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC🫂
I have been in a 2 month reading slump, and oh man, this book took me right out of it, I read this in a single sitting / day.. I could NOT put it down, even while eating dinner.. oops.. I was literally hooked from the start.
It was literally so enthralling, cuz like.. WHAT DID SHE PUT IN THIS BOOK?! IM OBSESSED.
I loved everything about this book, it felt like it was made for me.. like it from my wildest dreams. It literally had all of my favorite tropes.
The plot was plotting.. so immersive and .. the trials?! it was such an interesting way of doing them, it had me feeling like i was there. The magic system was so fresh and creative, it was awesome.
Akemi, I loved how we got to see her grow and develop over the book and become this strong, determined and fierce girl. Coming from being a bard, which btw is something i have never seen done in a book which was literally so cool to see how a bard transformed into a true warrior.. and how she still incorporated her love for storytelling and even songs into her adventures. Definitely loved how she wasn’t the normal warrior born girl, it was refreshing to see something different and I fell in love with her, she’s up there for my favorite FMCs.
Don’t even get me started on Atlys😩
Every scene he was in had me swooning and SCREAMING.. that man is a poet i swear, he constantly had me at a loss for words.. like are we joking? This man btw is a shadow daddy, mysterious, tattooosss?! WINGS!! DING 🛎️ DING 🛎️ DING 🛎️ we have a winner!!! definitely my new obsession. I actually can’t stop thinking about him.. 🤫
THE TENSIONNNN UGHHHH HELLOOO?? YALL DONT EVEN KNOOOWWW
I’m not ashamed to say, i shed a few tears at one point. I just felt so connected to these characters and the book itself, which doesn’t often much.. It’s rare for me to feel this deeply about a book, and boy, this one was everything i needed to get me out of my slump. A mix of everything i love. I couldn’t have asked for a better book to bring me out of my slump.. BUT MAN THAT ENDING.. NEED THE NEXT BOOK IMMEDIATELY!! PLEASE!!🙏
(literally had me staring at my wall for a good 5 minutes..)
I highlighted literally everything i could, im not kidding, 90% of it was highlighted i swear.
Everyone needs to put down everything else and read this 👏
________________________________________________
Some quotes to give you a little taste😉
(GO READ IT🫵🫵)
"You're a fragile little thing, yet you burn as hot as the Core.”
"I like you best when you let your flame burn, my
Sunrise.”
"Do you miss the sunlight.” I ask
"Not anymore"
"Why?"
"Because I have you, my Sunrise.”
"If I am your God, then you are the center of my universe.”
________________________________________________
Tropes:
⚔️Fierce female lead
🏹Deadly trials/games
🔪War academy
⛓️Complicated love interests (love triangle??👀)
🖤Secretive MMC
🎻Bard turned warrior FMC
🗡️Morally grey characters
🗝️Shadowy powers
👥Found family
🌙Celestial magic system
✨political intrigue; elves, humans, and the underworld
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC🫂
October 24, 2025
4⭐️
Thank you so much Monica for this gifted arc (my first physical one 🤭) of this debut novel! I love that so many indie authors have open DM’s and love to talk to their readers 🙃 It made the reading experience even more fun.
This was SUCH a well paced book!! There was never a lull in the entire story (granted it’s a shorter fantasy book, but still). I’ve been struggling the last month with having books keep me engaged, but I was enjoying every minute of this one. The magic system was fun and very easy to understand.
The story follows Akemi, a humble bard, who finds her village suddenly attacked by a group of Underlings. As her friends and town are being ransacked, she gets saved by two ~beautiful~ Watchers. They take her in and bring her to their war camp for protection. In order to save what’s left of her village, she decides to train as one of the Watchers and even enters a magical tournament to win the ultimate protection against dark forces.
Leaf & Castor are two protective, kind, and loyal side characters in this story. Honestly any scene with them and Akemi was my favorite. I got swept away with a certain Moon-cher, I forgot we hadn’t even met the famous shadow wielder 😆
Speaking of our Underling… I was not expecting Atlys to show up half way through the story! But sweeping in through the shadows he does. I GET the hype around this character, but their romance wasn’t my favorite part of the story. The found family in this one makes up for it though! Ramona was also such a good best friend too. I want more scenes with these four! 🥹*ROMANCE SPOILERS AHEAD* things escalate between the two main characters within around 60 pages of meeting. And then after an open door scene, they don’t interact much for the rest of the book. I’m a slow burn lover, so I wish there was more mystery and longing in the development of their relationship. I also wanted to see more of the training that happens for the tournament between them. His chapters though.. no complaints 😌 I loved seeing the book title come into play with his character.
The story has a nice set up for the series to continue! There’s so much more to explore between the different kingdoms as well as the Sun, Moon, and Star Watchers! I just know it’s going to be action packed.
I do want to be honest about this arc having a number of typos and grammatical errors. I understand this happens with advanced copies, and hope they were fixed prior to the official release.
Thanks again to author for the arc! This was such a fun and creative first novel.
Thank you so much Monica for this gifted arc (my first physical one 🤭) of this debut novel! I love that so many indie authors have open DM’s and love to talk to their readers 🙃 It made the reading experience even more fun.
This was SUCH a well paced book!! There was never a lull in the entire story (granted it’s a shorter fantasy book, but still). I’ve been struggling the last month with having books keep me engaged, but I was enjoying every minute of this one. The magic system was fun and very easy to understand.
The story follows Akemi, a humble bard, who finds her village suddenly attacked by a group of Underlings. As her friends and town are being ransacked, she gets saved by two ~beautiful~ Watchers. They take her in and bring her to their war camp for protection. In order to save what’s left of her village, she decides to train as one of the Watchers and even enters a magical tournament to win the ultimate protection against dark forces.
Leaf & Castor are two protective, kind, and loyal side characters in this story. Honestly any scene with them and Akemi was my favorite. I got swept away with a certain Moon-cher, I forgot we hadn’t even met the famous shadow wielder 😆
Speaking of our Underling… I was not expecting Atlys to show up half way through the story! But sweeping in through the shadows he does. I GET the hype around this character, but their romance wasn’t my favorite part of the story. The found family in this one makes up for it though! Ramona was also such a good best friend too. I want more scenes with these four! 🥹*ROMANCE SPOILERS AHEAD* things escalate between the two main characters within around 60 pages of meeting. And then after an open door scene, they don’t interact much for the rest of the book. I’m a slow burn lover, so I wish there was more mystery and longing in the development of their relationship. I also wanted to see more of the training that happens for the tournament between them. His chapters though.. no complaints 😌 I loved seeing the book title come into play with his character.
The story has a nice set up for the series to continue! There’s so much more to explore between the different kingdoms as well as the Sun, Moon, and Star Watchers! I just know it’s going to be action packed.
I do want to be honest about this arc having a number of typos and grammatical errors. I understand this happens with advanced copies, and hope they were fixed prior to the official release.
Thanks again to author for the arc! This was such a fun and creative first novel.
September 4, 2025
"ɪꜰ ɪ ᴀᴍ ʏᴏᴜʀ ɢᴏᴅ, ᴛʜᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴇɴᴛᴇʀ ᴏꜰ ᴍʏ ᴜɴɪᴠᴇʀꜱᴇ."
Did I see the tropes list for this book, skip the summary, and immediately run to sign up for an ARC? I sure did — and oh my Gods, this book absolutely delivered. Monica came out SWINGING with this debut!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ — 5 stars. No hesitation.
Yes, it starts off a little slow while the world settles in — but that’s what every great fantasy does, right? Give it a few chapters and suddenly you’re thrown into absolute CHAOS. I barely noticed the slightly abrupt chapter shifts because the writing was so rich and immersive — I was devouring it all too fast to care.
Akemi?? She is EVERYTHING. Strong, sharp, determined — very Katniss-coded, and I loved her for it. She doesn’t back down, she doesn’t waver, and she carries the story like the badass heroine she is. The trials and rivalries gave me a mix of Hunger Games, Divergent, and Goblet of Fire energy — but with its own fresh twist that had me tap tap tapping to the next page the entire time. Monica literally took all my favorite YA books, shook them up, and somehow made something brand new and equally addicting.
Tropes? Oh honeyyyyy, it’s full:
⚔︎ Fierce female lead
⚔︎ Deadly trials/games
⚔︎ Complicated love interests (love triangle? 👀)
⚔︎ Enemies-to-allies vibes
⚔︎ Secretive/mysterious MMC
⚔︎ Morally grey characters
⚔︎ Political intrigue
⚔︎ Shadowy powers & magic
⚔︎ FOUND FAMILY (y’all know I’m a sucker for it)
And then we have Atlys. My god, Atlys. If “shadow daddy” was a character, it would be him. (They don’t call him Soul Eater for nothing — and the man literally wields shadows — EXCUSE ME?!) Normally I fall for the MMC with dark hair and darker intentions (morally grey men are my kryptonite), but Atlys?? With his lighter hair?? Still managed to steal my entire soul 👀🤭 I was taking notes like: “Ah, so THIS is my new fictional obsession.”
This book made me laugh, made me gasp, made me highlight entire passages just so I could scream about them later. I finished it and immediately wanted to flip back to page one. September 9th can’t come soon enough — y’all NEED this book on your TBRs.
Thank you so much to the author and publisher for the ARC — I’m fully obsessed ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚
Did I see the tropes list for this book, skip the summary, and immediately run to sign up for an ARC? I sure did — and oh my Gods, this book absolutely delivered. Monica came out SWINGING with this debut!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ — 5 stars. No hesitation.
Yes, it starts off a little slow while the world settles in — but that’s what every great fantasy does, right? Give it a few chapters and suddenly you’re thrown into absolute CHAOS. I barely noticed the slightly abrupt chapter shifts because the writing was so rich and immersive — I was devouring it all too fast to care.
Akemi?? She is EVERYTHING. Strong, sharp, determined — very Katniss-coded, and I loved her for it. She doesn’t back down, she doesn’t waver, and she carries the story like the badass heroine she is. The trials and rivalries gave me a mix of Hunger Games, Divergent, and Goblet of Fire energy — but with its own fresh twist that had me tap tap tapping to the next page the entire time. Monica literally took all my favorite YA books, shook them up, and somehow made something brand new and equally addicting.
Tropes? Oh honeyyyyy, it’s full:
⚔︎ Fierce female lead
⚔︎ Deadly trials/games
⚔︎ Complicated love interests (love triangle? 👀)
⚔︎ Enemies-to-allies vibes
⚔︎ Secretive/mysterious MMC
⚔︎ Morally grey characters
⚔︎ Political intrigue
⚔︎ Shadowy powers & magic
⚔︎ FOUND FAMILY (y’all know I’m a sucker for it)
And then we have Atlys. My god, Atlys. If “shadow daddy” was a character, it would be him. (They don’t call him Soul Eater for nothing — and the man literally wields shadows — EXCUSE ME?!) Normally I fall for the MMC with dark hair and darker intentions (morally grey men are my kryptonite), but Atlys?? With his lighter hair?? Still managed to steal my entire soul 👀🤭 I was taking notes like: “Ah, so THIS is my new fictional obsession.”
This book made me laugh, made me gasp, made me highlight entire passages just so I could scream about them later. I finished it and immediately wanted to flip back to page one. September 9th can’t come soon enough — y’all NEED this book on your TBRs.
Thank you so much to the author and publisher for the ARC — I’m fully obsessed ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚
November 26, 2025
Overall vibe
“The Song of Sunrise” was… fine. Like a solid 2.5–3 star “background reading while you avoid your real problems” kind of book.
The plot had potential, the world felt like it could’ve eaten, and for the first half I was just sitting there like, “ok cool, vibes… nothing special but not rage-inducing either.”
Average plot, decent set-up, but the execution? Yeah, that’s where it started to crumble.
FMC expectations vs reality
As always, the hunt was on for a badass, morally grey FMC who eats men and consequences for breakfast. That’s what captivates me.
That’s what every romantasy deserves. 😌😌
Instead, the moment the MMC walked on page, the entire book said “what if… we turned the FMC’s spine into jelly for fun?” The shift from “could-be-iconic heroine” to “girl with zero self-respect around one dude” was actually painful to watch.
The anatomy jump scare
“His arms are as huge as my waist.” Babe. No.
So either:
He looks like a walking steroid advertisement💪, or
She has that 70s-magazine “ideal woman” waistline that no one actually has.💃
The math is not mathing. It took me straight out of the story because now I’m picturing this cartoonishly jacked dude and a heroine built like a fashion sketch.
And the worst part?
That level of sheer ridiculousness doesn’t even stop there.
The “run” scene (aka my 13th reason)
He flirts.
He smirks.
He lights his cigroot (massive, Olympic-level eye roll).
Akemi throws a knife at him. 🙂
He catches it. 😑
Finishes his cigroot. 😒
Says, “run.” 🫢
......
...
...
And she actually does.
WTF!!! 🤢🤢
The intensity with which I wanted to yeet this book across the room is unthinkable.
This isn’t dark and sexy, it’s giving Wattpad 2013 with worse self-respect settings.
.....
Self-respect? Never heard of her.
At this point it stops feeling like romantasy and starts reading like a badly written dark romance where the FMC’s dignity is an optional add-on the author forgot to pay for. 😵
The “I cannot control myself” + “run” combo happens AGAIN, and by then I was pretty sure I was going to go bald from sheer frustration.
And then they hook up like two pages later.
Same chapter.
Zero emotional build-up, just pure chaos.
Not tension.
Not chemistry.
Just 🚩🚩🚩.
....
The infamous “cliffhanger”
And the gag is people calling that ending a “wow, what a cliffhanger!!!” as if it wasn’t the most predictable thing ever.
That “twist” was so flat it basically laid there and died. Highly disappointed. For a debut, it had potential, which makes it even more annoying, but at this point… my thoughts are my own, thank you. I finished it purely out of stubbornness, not enjoyment, and that says everything you need to know 😂📚💀
“The Song of Sunrise” was… fine. Like a solid 2.5–3 star “background reading while you avoid your real problems” kind of book.
The plot had potential, the world felt like it could’ve eaten, and for the first half I was just sitting there like, “ok cool, vibes… nothing special but not rage-inducing either.”
Average plot, decent set-up, but the execution? Yeah, that’s where it started to crumble.
FMC expectations vs reality
As always, the hunt was on for a badass, morally grey FMC who eats men and consequences for breakfast. That’s what captivates me.
That’s what every romantasy deserves. 😌😌
Instead, the moment the MMC walked on page, the entire book said “what if… we turned the FMC’s spine into jelly for fun?” The shift from “could-be-iconic heroine” to “girl with zero self-respect around one dude” was actually painful to watch.
The anatomy jump scare
“His arms are as huge as my waist.” Babe. No.
So either:
He looks like a walking steroid advertisement💪, or
She has that 70s-magazine “ideal woman” waistline that no one actually has.💃
The math is not mathing. It took me straight out of the story because now I’m picturing this cartoonishly jacked dude and a heroine built like a fashion sketch.
And the worst part?
That level of sheer ridiculousness doesn’t even stop there.
The “run” scene (aka my 13th reason)
He flirts.
He smirks.
He lights his cigroot (massive, Olympic-level eye roll).
Akemi throws a knife at him. 🙂
He catches it. 😑
Finishes his cigroot. 😒
Says, “run.” 🫢
......
...
...
And she actually does.
WTF!!! 🤢🤢
The intensity with which I wanted to yeet this book across the room is unthinkable.
This isn’t dark and sexy, it’s giving Wattpad 2013 with worse self-respect settings.
.....
Self-respect? Never heard of her.
At this point it stops feeling like romantasy and starts reading like a badly written dark romance where the FMC’s dignity is an optional add-on the author forgot to pay for. 😵
The “I cannot control myself” + “run” combo happens AGAIN, and by then I was pretty sure I was going to go bald from sheer frustration.
And then they hook up like two pages later.
Same chapter.
Zero emotional build-up, just pure chaos.
Not tension.
Not chemistry.
Just 🚩🚩🚩.
....
The infamous “cliffhanger”
And the gag is people calling that ending a “wow, what a cliffhanger!!!” as if it wasn’t the most predictable thing ever.
That “twist” was so flat it basically laid there and died. Highly disappointed. For a debut, it had potential, which makes it even more annoying, but at this point… my thoughts are my own, thank you. I finished it purely out of stubbornness, not enjoyment, and that says everything you need to know 😂📚💀
September 5, 2025
Wow. This book absolutely swept me away. I thought the magic system was fresh and creative, detailed enough to feel real but still full of mystery. Akemi Nox stood out so strongly, underestimated by many yet showing grit, heart, and growth in a way that made her unforgettable. Atlys, with his dark aura and wings, gave the story that intense edge, and the slow burn tension between them kept me glued to the pages. I also enjoyed how the pacing balanced sharp action with quiet moments of reflection and connection. The writing felt vivid, with political intrigue, danger, and a romance that smoldered under every chapter. The ending hit hard and left me both hurt and thrilled, already desperate for the second book. Thank you so much to the author and The Nerd Fam for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review
September 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this! I think it's a great start to a series that's going to dive deeper into the world & and magic, and I can't wait for that! it was so unique compared to other fantasy books that I have read, and that was really refreshing.
I love Akemi's growth throughout the book, instead of her instantly starting out as a total baddie fmc. that was also refreshing!
I have lots of questions, and that's what keeps me invested enough to follow a series out, so I'll definitely be on the edge of my seat waiting for more with that ending. I'm also questioning some characters & I love that I'm unsure of where they actually stand. the mystery is alive and real!
more to expect :
- Trials
- Military Academy
- Unique Magic
thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for gifting me with an e-arc.
I love Akemi's growth throughout the book, instead of her instantly starting out as a total baddie fmc. that was also refreshing!
I have lots of questions, and that's what keeps me invested enough to follow a series out, so I'll definitely be on the edge of my seat waiting for more with that ending. I'm also questioning some characters & I love that I'm unsure of where they actually stand. the mystery is alive and real!
more to expect :
- Trials
- Military Academy
- Unique Magic
thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for gifting me with an e-arc.
September 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
I loved this book so much! Akemi was such a little feisty badass and her redemption arc made me happy. Her story started from a place of heartbreak and unknowing, and she blossomed into a woman with a better understanding of herself, her abilities, and the people that she holds close.
I also absolutely fell in love with Leaf and Castor in the beginning chapters, and I wouldn’t have been mad at a why choose version of the three of them (hehe 🤭)
However, Atlys was the dark brooding MMC that I needed. We love a misunderstood man, and I’m sorry but “my sunshine” was so cute, I was obsessed!
ANOTHER thing, the cover of this book is so detailed and I only noticed later, but once you read it PLEASE go back to look in more detail — it’s gorgeous!!!
🌶️🌶️
I loved this book so much! Akemi was such a little feisty badass and her redemption arc made me happy. Her story started from a place of heartbreak and unknowing, and she blossomed into a woman with a better understanding of herself, her abilities, and the people that she holds close.
I also absolutely fell in love with Leaf and Castor in the beginning chapters, and I wouldn’t have been mad at a why choose version of the three of them (hehe 🤭)
However, Atlys was the dark brooding MMC that I needed. We love a misunderstood man, and I’m sorry but “my sunshine” was so cute, I was obsessed!
ANOTHER thing, the cover of this book is so detailed and I only noticed later, but once you read it PLEASE go back to look in more detail — it’s gorgeous!!!
September 11, 2025
Thank you to NerdFam and the author for the advanced reader copy of this debut romantasy.
If Romantasy is your comfort genre, I think you will really like this one. It follows the normal formula. For me, that meant this was extremely predictable. There were plot twists, but they were the same plot twists from every other book, so you knew what was coming.
We have a frail FMC, not like other girls, and a huge grumpy MMC. Throw in a few tropes; one horse, one bed, enemies to lovers, etc. Make it happen at an academy and have them ride some large magical animals. Shake that all up and maybe throw in some monster romance just to spice it up a bit, and you have this new series.
This wasn't for me, but I can see how this will be a hit for others.
⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
If Romantasy is your comfort genre, I think you will really like this one. It follows the normal formula. For me, that meant this was extremely predictable. There were plot twists, but they were the same plot twists from every other book, so you knew what was coming.
We have a frail FMC, not like other girls, and a huge grumpy MMC. Throw in a few tropes; one horse, one bed, enemies to lovers, etc. Make it happen at an academy and have them ride some large magical animals. Shake that all up and maybe throw in some monster romance just to spice it up a bit, and you have this new series.
This wasn't for me, but I can see how this will be a hit for others.
⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
August 17, 2025
I LOVE this book!
I enjoyed this whole book, and I cannot believe I have to wait for the second book to continue!
The book hooks you in from the beginning and doesn’t let go. I thought I knew where the romance was heading, and I was happily surprised to be wrong. The world has a wonderful magic system, and the politics and history added to the story wonderfully.
I love our FMC and how realistic her actions felt.
AND OFCOURSE OUR MMC whaaaaaattt..... I am breathless!
Be warned it does end with a massive cliffhanger😭
I have no regrets though.
Thank you Monica for gifting me this wonderful story!
I enjoyed this whole book, and I cannot believe I have to wait for the second book to continue!
The book hooks you in from the beginning and doesn’t let go. I thought I knew where the romance was heading, and I was happily surprised to be wrong. The world has a wonderful magic system, and the politics and history added to the story wonderfully.
I love our FMC and how realistic her actions felt.
AND OFCOURSE OUR MMC whaaaaaattt..... I am breathless!
Be warned it does end with a massive cliffhanger😭
I have no regrets though.
Thank you Monica for gifting me this wonderful story!
September 6, 2025
ARC Review for “Song of Sunrise” by Monica J. Deloy, dropping September 9th!
Thank you @The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC.
I really enjoyed The Song of Sunrise! Monica J Deloy’s debut novel pulled me in right from the very first page with its fresh, post-apocalyptic world where magic and political drama mix in exciting ways. Akemi Nox is such a well-rounded and relatable heroine, and her journey through survival, growth, and self-discovery kept me hooked and emotionally invested. The enemies-to-lovers romance brought plenty of sparks and tension, while the big competitions and battles turned the story into a thrilling ride. If you’re a fan of fantasy filled with heart, adventure, and unforgettable characters, this book is definitely one to add to your list!
Thank you @The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC.
I really enjoyed The Song of Sunrise! Monica J Deloy’s debut novel pulled me in right from the very first page with its fresh, post-apocalyptic world where magic and political drama mix in exciting ways. Akemi Nox is such a well-rounded and relatable heroine, and her journey through survival, growth, and self-discovery kept me hooked and emotionally invested. The enemies-to-lovers romance brought plenty of sparks and tension, while the big competitions and battles turned the story into a thrilling ride. If you’re a fan of fantasy filled with heart, adventure, and unforgettable characters, this book is definitely one to add to your list!
August 23, 2025
ARE YOU FRICKIN KIDDING ME?!
I am obsessed. I devoured this book!
At first I thought I knew where this was going then BOOM sharp turn in a whole different direction. Akemi is my girl, I love her personal growth and her strength as she evolves. I just love everything about her. Atlys could literally kick me in the face and I’d say thank you, he’s giving everything he needs to give.
Now the ENDING?!?! I am going to need a full week to recover from this. I am need book 2 in my hands NOW.
I am obsessed. I devoured this book!
At first I thought I knew where this was going then BOOM sharp turn in a whole different direction. Akemi is my girl, I love her personal growth and her strength as she evolves. I just love everything about her. Atlys could literally kick me in the face and I’d say thank you, he’s giving everything he needs to give.
Now the ENDING?!?! I am going to need a full week to recover from this. I am need book 2 in my hands NOW.
September 10, 2025
Oh. Wow. I mean, you make a bard the heroine?!!? Who wouldn't love that? I really enjoyed this book. Some may claim they've heard the premise before but idgaf, I loved it. I am sorry it ended on a cliffhanger though. When's the next one coming out? Answer: not soon enough.
August 27, 2025
Song of Sunrise hits like a ballad you can’t get out of your head—equal parts heartache, healing, and hope. Monica J. DeLoy spins a story that feels like standing on a beach at dawn: beautiful, a little bittersweet, and totally unforgettable. If you’re into emotional journeys, found strength, and love that lingers, this book will sing straight to your soul.
November 14, 2025
Meh not great but was entertaining
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews