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Daughter of the Dark Sun: A Dark Romantic Fantasy
Cursed by the Dark Goddess, Apattar desires only one thing in life: to make the world feel her pain. Trapped in a remote oasis and abused under the guise of “purification” by her father and a society entrenched in superstitions, she knows she is unlovable.
Until he looks at her.
Now, she will not stop hunting her prey.
After witnessing the brutal murder of his parents as a child, Therat struggles to contain the dark voices in his head. He clings to life but yearns for death. When he sees a raven-haired woman cloaked in the Shadow-weave, she becomes his unwilling obsession. As the siren’s song pulls his darkest urges to the surface, one thing is she will be his ruin if he cannot find an escape.
She is the Maiden of Shadow, the woman in the night who sends men to madness with just one look.
She is the Coming Reckoning, the cursed Daughter of the Dark Goddess sent to ready the world for Death Herself.
She is inevitable.
Burn it all, for him.
Until he looks at her.
Now, she will not stop hunting her prey.
After witnessing the brutal murder of his parents as a child, Therat struggles to contain the dark voices in his head. He clings to life but yearns for death. When he sees a raven-haired woman cloaked in the Shadow-weave, she becomes his unwilling obsession. As the siren’s song pulls his darkest urges to the surface, one thing is she will be his ruin if he cannot find an escape.
She is the Maiden of Shadow, the woman in the night who sends men to madness with just one look.
She is the Coming Reckoning, the cursed Daughter of the Dark Goddess sent to ready the world for Death Herself.
She is inevitable.
Burn it all, for him.
- GenresDark Romance
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2025
11 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
D. Kathleen McAteer
2 books13 followersAs an author, D. Kathleen combines her love of high fantasy, dark romance, and mental health awareness.
An only child, from a young age D. Kathleen always felt more at home with her nose in a book, preferably something with magic, mythical beasts, and a badass female protagonist. Combined with far too many times watching movies like Beauty and the Beast, Labyrinth, and Bram Stoker's Dracula, it was always a foregone conclusion that she would end up falling for the morally grey villain.
D. Kathleen currently resides in Southwest Washington with her husband, two cats, and a plethora of wild birds demanding offerings. When not working, writing, or reading, she can be found outside in her gardens, marveling at the beauty of nature.
An only child, from a young age D. Kathleen always felt more at home with her nose in a book, preferably something with magic, mythical beasts, and a badass female protagonist. Combined with far too many times watching movies like Beauty and the Beast, Labyrinth, and Bram Stoker's Dracula, it was always a foregone conclusion that she would end up falling for the morally grey villain.
D. Kathleen currently resides in Southwest Washington with her husband, two cats, and a plethora of wild birds demanding offerings. When not working, writing, or reading, she can be found outside in her gardens, marveling at the beauty of nature.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 23, 2025
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Daughter of the Dark Sun is not a light, breezy read. It demands your full attention. The main characters are broken and angry, their shadows a physical representation of the struggle in their hearts. That being said, this book is worth the read. It’s worth the time and thought to follow the journey. I loved that this book had romance and some spice, but that wasn’t the central theme. There isn’t some random quick fix that solves all the trials that Therat and Apattar face. They truly are tortured souls trying to find their way, and I loved that. I can’t wait for the next book to see where their path leads next. I recommend checking the content warnings as always.
Daughter of the Dark Sun is not a light, breezy read. It demands your full attention. The main characters are broken and angry, their shadows a physical representation of the struggle in their hearts. That being said, this book is worth the read. It’s worth the time and thought to follow the journey. I loved that this book had romance and some spice, but that wasn’t the central theme. There isn’t some random quick fix that solves all the trials that Therat and Apattar face. They truly are tortured souls trying to find their way, and I loved that. I can’t wait for the next book to see where their path leads next. I recommend checking the content warnings as always.
August 22, 2025
Thank you D Kathleen McAteer for the e-arc!
The first chapter really had me hooked! Unfortunately the first half of the book kinda flew over my head. The glossary in the beginning of the book was great, I should have used it more but sometimes I just kept on reading not really knowing what was happening (and that’s fully on me). Also while reading the book I discovered I’m not the biggest fan of third person books (and that’s also on me). The writing itself was really good tho!
I loved how we had a shadow mommy as a fmc! You don’t see that very often and I was obsessed with her. I also loved her relationship with therat. The ending does have me very curious about the next book
The first chapter really had me hooked! Unfortunately the first half of the book kinda flew over my head. The glossary in the beginning of the book was great, I should have used it more but sometimes I just kept on reading not really knowing what was happening (and that’s fully on me). Also while reading the book I discovered I’m not the biggest fan of third person books (and that’s also on me). The writing itself was really good tho!
I loved how we had a shadow mommy as a fmc! You don’t see that very often and I was obsessed with her. I also loved her relationship with therat. The ending does have me very curious about the next book
August 24, 2025
Rating: 3.75
🔹 ARC Review 🔹
Daughter of the Dark Sun by D. Kathleen McAteer is a dark and beautiful fantasy story that looks at what happens with obsession, pain, and destiny. It tells two stories that are tied together: one is about Apattar, a cursed daughter who wants revenge, and the other is about Therat, a sad man who is pulled in by her dark beauty. The rich, song-like writing and characters who are not simply good or bad make this a story that will stay with you, where love and ruin go together. It's a great book for readers who like fantasy that is both sad and pretty.
Overall, this was a good read but I found myself getting confused and having to go back and read previous chapters and caused me to give a rating of 3.5.
🔹 ARC Review 🔹
Daughter of the Dark Sun by D. Kathleen McAteer is a dark and beautiful fantasy story that looks at what happens with obsession, pain, and destiny. It tells two stories that are tied together: one is about Apattar, a cursed daughter who wants revenge, and the other is about Therat, a sad man who is pulled in by her dark beauty. The rich, song-like writing and characters who are not simply good or bad make this a story that will stay with you, where love and ruin go together. It's a great book for readers who like fantasy that is both sad and pretty.
Overall, this was a good read but I found myself getting confused and having to go back and read previous chapters and caused me to give a rating of 3.5.
August 12, 2025
While the beginning was a bit of a slow start for me personally, this world is filled with lore and secrets that are reminiscent of some of my favorite epic fantasies.
There's a lot of good here and it will draw you in and hook you until you want to know the ending for our two favorite MC's.
Looking forward to book two!
There's a lot of good here and it will draw you in and hook you until you want to know the ending for our two favorite MC's.
Looking forward to book two!
August 12, 2025
3.5 I liked it but there are a few parts where I get lost and I’m like huh??
I enjoyed their connection. A little banter, some spice!
- one bed
- enemies to fated lovers
- shadow mommy
- slow, slow burn
- found family
I enjoyed their connection. A little banter, some spice!
- one bed
- enemies to fated lovers
- shadow mommy
- slow, slow burn
- found family
July 25, 2025
🌶️🌶️🌶️
A high fantasy, true slow burn that reminds me we never know what demons hide behind someone's eyes or the doors of beautiful homes.
“Even I do not understand fully the designs of my Goddess. She is the echo of a memory, even among my people. Once, we tried to learn the truth of the Discordance, but the past is cloaked in darkness we cannot untangle. It is impossible for me to save all, but our Oracle told me of you. You, the daughter born when the moon overshadowed the sun, touched with the blood of gods who once walked our land. You will achieve greatness, Apattar, who calls herself evranenith.”
Thank you, D. Kathleen McAteer for an eARC.
“No, he is your father, Inann. I am his eternal regret.”
D. Kathleen has created a beautiful and deeply faith-based world I wish I could visit. No small detail was missed, and it feels like we are sweating right alongside the characters in the desert. This is not light reading. It starts off dark and never stops. Please read all TWs/CWs. Apattar's father is so well-written and perfectly conveys the worst kind of monster most never sense is living among them. I thoroughly enjoyed how it was not your average path through a romantic fantasy book and the end was so unexpected my jaw hit the floor. The dynamics and web of relationships are so vast and intricate. The twists and turns keep coming right up until the very end.
She is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. She is the most terrible thing I have ever seen.
If you love shadow daddies, get ready to get on the shadow mommy train because Appattar is everything we love about shadow daddies cranked up with some feminine rage and trauma all mixed in. If you like your fantasy dark with deep worldbuilding, interesting pantheons with lots of lore, insane superstition-based practices and two dark souls who have seen the worst of the world but still somehow go on, check out Daughter of the Dark Sun.
“Do not tempt me, Little Siren.” “A pet name already? You flatter me, Therat.”
🖤 Black Cat x Tortured Cinnamon Roll
💏🏾 Black Main Cast & POC Rep
🧠 Mental Health & Trauma Rep
💪🏿 Trauma to Strength
😈 SHE'S the Shadow Daddy
💗 Slow Burn Romance
⚔️ Enemies-to-Lovers
💖 Fated Lovers
💓 Found Family
🌶️ Open Door
🛏️ One Bed
👄 She Bites
🔥 He's feral for her
👀 Dual POV (3rd Person)
🎶 Music-based Magic
🖤🖤🖤🖤
If you only want to see books I rate 4-stars or higher, get book recommendations or just connect and talk books follow me on Booksta
🖤🖤🖤🖤
A high fantasy, true slow burn that reminds me we never know what demons hide behind someone's eyes or the doors of beautiful homes.
“Even I do not understand fully the designs of my Goddess. She is the echo of a memory, even among my people. Once, we tried to learn the truth of the Discordance, but the past is cloaked in darkness we cannot untangle. It is impossible for me to save all, but our Oracle told me of you. You, the daughter born when the moon overshadowed the sun, touched with the blood of gods who once walked our land. You will achieve greatness, Apattar, who calls herself evranenith.”
Thank you, D. Kathleen McAteer for an eARC.
“No, he is your father, Inann. I am his eternal regret.”
D. Kathleen has created a beautiful and deeply faith-based world I wish I could visit. No small detail was missed, and it feels like we are sweating right alongside the characters in the desert. This is not light reading. It starts off dark and never stops. Please read all TWs/CWs. Apattar's father is so well-written and perfectly conveys the worst kind of monster most never sense is living among them. I thoroughly enjoyed how it was not your average path through a romantic fantasy book and the end was so unexpected my jaw hit the floor. The dynamics and web of relationships are so vast and intricate. The twists and turns keep coming right up until the very end.
She is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. She is the most terrible thing I have ever seen.
If you love shadow daddies, get ready to get on the shadow mommy train because Appattar is everything we love about shadow daddies cranked up with some feminine rage and trauma all mixed in. If you like your fantasy dark with deep worldbuilding, interesting pantheons with lots of lore, insane superstition-based practices and two dark souls who have seen the worst of the world but still somehow go on, check out Daughter of the Dark Sun.
“Do not tempt me, Little Siren.” “A pet name already? You flatter me, Therat.”
🖤 Black Cat x Tortured Cinnamon Roll
💏🏾 Black Main Cast & POC Rep
🧠 Mental Health & Trauma Rep
💪🏿 Trauma to Strength
😈 SHE'S the Shadow Daddy
💗 Slow Burn Romance
⚔️ Enemies-to-Lovers
💖 Fated Lovers
💓 Found Family
🌶️ Open Door
🛏️ One Bed
👄 She Bites
🔥 He's feral for her
👀 Dual POV (3rd Person)
🎶 Music-based Magic
🖤🖤🖤🖤
If you only want to see books I rate 4-stars or higher, get book recommendations or just connect and talk books follow me on Booksta
🖤🖤🖤🖤
August 11, 2025
I was very excited to see the premise of this book as it's about inner strength through adversity.
My Synopsis: Appatar is severely abused because she was born at the wrong time of day for her culture. She experiences little joy in life, until one day, her maidservant sneaks her out of the palace and she locks eyes with Therat. He was made into a dark creature and is slowly going mad from the voices the darkness brings with him. They must overcome their own internal cacophonies to come together to save their magical kin.
What I enjoyed:
- The culture in here is very Middle Eastern/Indo-Pak region. I couldn't tell if it was fully Arab based or if Hindu/Sikh culture was also influencing the tale. From my very limited knowledge, I truly enjoyed the different culture immersion.
- The author defies the limitations when it comes to on-page parental/child abuse and slavery. It was written extremely respectfully and it directly impacted the character development of the FMC.
What didn't work for me :
- I got lost in some of the turns of phrase because they specifically were foreign languages to me. I kept having to go towards the glossary. If the author adds in a definition the first few times its used, it may help alleviate this. The glossary was helpful for most of the words. Not all of them were listed.
- Sentence cadences were very old world. The way the characters spoke to each other was difficult to follow and reminded me of how the Grimm fairy tales or Aesop's fables were told. It was less conversation and more speak and respond type of flow.
Overall, this was a good read. I rated it lower because I kept being pulled out of the story for the items listed above. This, again, is a me thing. I want to know what happens to the characters and will continue, but perhaps it's best for planning a longer time to read it than my normal.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. All information contained herein is my honest opinion.
My Synopsis: Appatar is severely abused because she was born at the wrong time of day for her culture. She experiences little joy in life, until one day, her maidservant sneaks her out of the palace and she locks eyes with Therat. He was made into a dark creature and is slowly going mad from the voices the darkness brings with him. They must overcome their own internal cacophonies to come together to save their magical kin.
What I enjoyed:
- The culture in here is very Middle Eastern/Indo-Pak region. I couldn't tell if it was fully Arab based or if Hindu/Sikh culture was also influencing the tale. From my very limited knowledge, I truly enjoyed the different culture immersion.
- The author defies the limitations when it comes to on-page parental/child abuse and slavery. It was written extremely respectfully and it directly impacted the character development of the FMC.
What didn't work for me :
- I got lost in some of the turns of phrase because they specifically were foreign languages to me. I kept having to go towards the glossary. If the author adds in a definition the first few times its used, it may help alleviate this. The glossary was helpful for most of the words. Not all of them were listed.
- Sentence cadences were very old world. The way the characters spoke to each other was difficult to follow and reminded me of how the Grimm fairy tales or Aesop's fables were told. It was less conversation and more speak and respond type of flow.
Overall, this was a good read. I rated it lower because I kept being pulled out of the story for the items listed above. This, again, is a me thing. I want to know what happens to the characters and will continue, but perhaps it's best for planning a longer time to read it than my normal.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. All information contained herein is my honest opinion.
August 22, 2025
~ Arc review ~
The first chapter of this book hooked me, and then it got really slow in my opinion. It took me a while to get through this one due to that - it was well written and had a bit of character growth which I enjoyed, but it felt like they would take 3 steps forward and immediately 2 steps back throughout the entirety of the book. Another slight issue I had was it felt like each conversation was scripted and didn’t always flow naturally the way it typically would, which was a bit difficult to follow and broke my immersion.
I really liked the overall story line, and i loved the descriptions of characters/places, but I wish we got more depth to the overall story as opposed to “I’m broken and traumatized and that’s all you need to know.” Because while yes, that is a key feature of both MC’s, I feel like that’s the only thing I really know about them after about 400 pages. Now granted, I’m aware there will be more books in this series, so I know the first books are typically slower and info-heavy to build up the world/characters. So with that in mind, this does a great job at that. There are points in the book later on that hooked me and had me wanting to see what happened, and the writing in general is beautiful and vivid.
I do plan on reading the next books in the future to see how the overall story wraps up, and I hope we get to see more of that character development later on. Overall, I’m rating this one a solid 3 star based on what I mentioned above, and for those that want a spice rating, I’d probably give that a 1-1.5 🌶️
The first chapter of this book hooked me, and then it got really slow in my opinion. It took me a while to get through this one due to that - it was well written and had a bit of character growth which I enjoyed, but it felt like they would take 3 steps forward and immediately 2 steps back throughout the entirety of the book. Another slight issue I had was it felt like each conversation was scripted and didn’t always flow naturally the way it typically would, which was a bit difficult to follow and broke my immersion.
I really liked the overall story line, and i loved the descriptions of characters/places, but I wish we got more depth to the overall story as opposed to “I’m broken and traumatized and that’s all you need to know.” Because while yes, that is a key feature of both MC’s, I feel like that’s the only thing I really know about them after about 400 pages. Now granted, I’m aware there will be more books in this series, so I know the first books are typically slower and info-heavy to build up the world/characters. So with that in mind, this does a great job at that. There are points in the book later on that hooked me and had me wanting to see what happened, and the writing in general is beautiful and vivid.
I do plan on reading the next books in the future to see how the overall story wraps up, and I hope we get to see more of that character development later on. Overall, I’m rating this one a solid 3 star based on what I mentioned above, and for those that want a spice rating, I’d probably give that a 1-1.5 🌶️
August 15, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 (3/5)
Genre: Dark Fantasy Romance | Epic Worldbuilding | Twin POVs
This is dark fantasy romance in the truest sense—lush, immersive, and unapologetically brutal. Apattar and Therat’s stories run parallel, each marked by curses, survival, and the cruelty of those who should have loved them.
The worldbuilding drips with political intrigue, caste tension, and divine mythology, giving it an epic, almost mythic feel. The romance is not instant—it’s built on shared darkness and connection through pain, so when it hits, it hits.
The pacing leans slow in places due to the depth of lore, but the emotional payoff is worth it. Heavy on-page trauma makes the emotional beats land even harder, and the character work is incredibly layered.
Content Warnings: child abuse (one scene), psychological abuse/manipulation, suicidal ideation & attempt (flashback), murder, gore, alcohol abuse, slavery (prisoners of war), dubious consent, knife play, blood play.
Perfect for readers who love: cursed FMCs, morally grey MMCs, fated mates/soulmates, found family, and romance forged in survival.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 (3/5)
Genre: Dark Fantasy Romance | Epic Worldbuilding | Twin POVs
This is dark fantasy romance in the truest sense—lush, immersive, and unapologetically brutal. Apattar and Therat’s stories run parallel, each marked by curses, survival, and the cruelty of those who should have loved them.
The worldbuilding drips with political intrigue, caste tension, and divine mythology, giving it an epic, almost mythic feel. The romance is not instant—it’s built on shared darkness and connection through pain, so when it hits, it hits.
The pacing leans slow in places due to the depth of lore, but the emotional payoff is worth it. Heavy on-page trauma makes the emotional beats land even harder, and the character work is incredibly layered.
Content Warnings: child abuse (one scene), psychological abuse/manipulation, suicidal ideation & attempt (flashback), murder, gore, alcohol abuse, slavery (prisoners of war), dubious consent, knife play, blood play.
Perfect for readers who love: cursed FMCs, morally grey MMCs, fated mates/soulmates, found family, and romance forged in survival.
August 19, 2025
✨ Dune meets LOTR with Samantha Shannon vibe ✨
Okay. I, am in love. I am so so ready to see more of this series. This is def a SLOW BURN but oof is it worth it. Plus there’s a lot of what felt like to me as tension between the two and it almost made it more believable and organic.
This very very much gives Dune vibes in the whole ambiance of it but even in the way these families are set up. As a LOTR fan, the book reminded me a lot of what Tolkien books are. I’d be lying if I knew the ‘name’ for that type of writing, perhaps just high fantasy? That’s why it also felt like Samantha Shannon vibes. Reminded me of some of the language we see in Priory, etc. not to mention, the FMC truly fights for her spot. She isn’t just given glory or wins, she is her own person (hope that makes sense?)
This is for fans of fantasy, longing, yearning, found family (in a way) , redemption, femme fatale, cinnamon roll, high fantasy.
I’m giving this book 5⭐️ because it seems like a debut? Which to me, to capture people and make you want more on the debut? Again, very Samantha Shannon coded 😅 (iykyk)
* I just finished this, so I’m honestly still riding ‘my high’ and can give more insight.
Okay. I, am in love. I am so so ready to see more of this series. This is def a SLOW BURN but oof is it worth it. Plus there’s a lot of what felt like to me as tension between the two and it almost made it more believable and organic.
This very very much gives Dune vibes in the whole ambiance of it but even in the way these families are set up. As a LOTR fan, the book reminded me a lot of what Tolkien books are. I’d be lying if I knew the ‘name’ for that type of writing, perhaps just high fantasy? That’s why it also felt like Samantha Shannon vibes. Reminded me of some of the language we see in Priory, etc. not to mention, the FMC truly fights for her spot. She isn’t just given glory or wins, she is her own person (hope that makes sense?)
This is for fans of fantasy, longing, yearning, found family (in a way) , redemption, femme fatale, cinnamon roll, high fantasy.
I’m giving this book 5⭐️ because it seems like a debut? Which to me, to capture people and make you want more on the debut? Again, very Samantha Shannon coded 😅 (iykyk)
* I just finished this, so I’m honestly still riding ‘my high’ and can give more insight.
August 24, 2025
3.5⭐
ARC review
This book was extremely detailed and well written. The character development was a really interesting read, especially as both main characters explore their relationship with their shadows. I enjoyed the relationship between the main characters too, however, it was an extremely long slow burn (actual relations began around 80% through).
What I did struggle with, personally, was how slow the progress of the book was. The large timeline jumps also led to some confusion as the characters were constantly in different places and different phases of development, with little information as to how they got there. I really struggled to read the first 50-60% of the book and it took me a while, but after that initial struggle I found the book really picked up nicely. I found there were almost too many details (house names, gods, places), and I found myself drawn from the story a lot to the glossary. There were also a few phrases used throughout that had no translation or explanation.
Overall, I would say this is a good book and I am looking forward to book 2 to see how the characters progress together in their story.
ARC review
This book was extremely detailed and well written. The character development was a really interesting read, especially as both main characters explore their relationship with their shadows. I enjoyed the relationship between the main characters too, however, it was an extremely long slow burn (actual relations began around 80% through).
What I did struggle with, personally, was how slow the progress of the book was. The large timeline jumps also led to some confusion as the characters were constantly in different places and different phases of development, with little information as to how they got there. I really struggled to read the first 50-60% of the book and it took me a while, but after that initial struggle I found the book really picked up nicely. I found there were almost too many details (house names, gods, places), and I found myself drawn from the story a lot to the glossary. There were also a few phrases used throughout that had no translation or explanation.
Overall, I would say this is a good book and I am looking forward to book 2 to see how the characters progress together in their story.
August 17, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.95
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Release date: 08/23/25
Review:
The first part of it was very slow I was struggling to get through it, took awhile to get into the plot. The writing is absolutely beautiful. I plan to reread it before the second book releases, especially since I read this during a couple of very stressful weeks and couldn’t give it my full attention.
I fell in love with Apattar, she completely stole my heart (shadow mommies for life ! ) —in my head she looked more and more like Kirby Howell-Baptiste the deeper I got into the story.
The worldbuilding is stunning—rich, detailed, and layered in a way that gives the story an epic, divine, mythological feel. Confusing at times to really keep up with so much good details that didn’t take away from the overall experience.
Thank you D. Kathleen for the beautiful arc in exchange for the honest review. I’m excited for book two cause that ending was just woooow. I need to know what happens.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Release date: 08/23/25
Review:
The first part of it was very slow I was struggling to get through it, took awhile to get into the plot. The writing is absolutely beautiful. I plan to reread it before the second book releases, especially since I read this during a couple of very stressful weeks and couldn’t give it my full attention.
I fell in love with Apattar, she completely stole my heart (shadow mommies for life ! ) —in my head she looked more and more like Kirby Howell-Baptiste the deeper I got into the story.
The worldbuilding is stunning—rich, detailed, and layered in a way that gives the story an epic, divine, mythological feel. Confusing at times to really keep up with so much good details that didn’t take away from the overall experience.
Thank you D. Kathleen for the beautiful arc in exchange for the honest review. I’m excited for book two cause that ending was just woooow. I need to know what happens.
September 5, 2025
⭐4.25
"Daughter of the Dark Sun" is the immersive, fantastical, regal novel to read to satiate your craving for a high-fantasy, plot-centred book.
Let me be just one more person who says this, but the way D. Kathleen describes everything is awe-strucking. I seriously felt like I was walking right there with Mireithren in those endless deserts, shadows swirling at my feet.
At the risk of sounding slightly crazy, I don't think this is as much of a slow burn as described. Yes, the spice starts at about 75%; however, considering the main characters only actually stay in the same place for more than five minutes, 5% before that, it's a fast burn if you think about it.
The backstories and the plot developed so perfectly that I didn't even miss the romance. Okay, maybe I was screaming at my screen for them to get together, but that is between me and Mir & Ther (yes, they have nicknames in my head).
"Daughter of the Dark Sun" is the immersive, fantastical, regal novel to read to satiate your craving for a high-fantasy, plot-centred book.
Let me be just one more person who says this, but the way D. Kathleen describes everything is awe-strucking. I seriously felt like I was walking right there with Mireithren in those endless deserts, shadows swirling at my feet.
At the risk of sounding slightly crazy, I don't think this is as much of a slow burn as described. Yes, the spice starts at about 75%; however, considering the main characters only actually stay in the same place for more than five minutes, 5% before that, it's a fast burn if you think about it.
The backstories and the plot developed so perfectly that I didn't even miss the romance. Okay, maybe I was screaming at my screen for them to get together, but that is between me and Mir & Ther (yes, they have nicknames in my head).
July 26, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Born during an eclipse, Apattar was supposed to die. Through her mother’s love, her life was spared, but only to be imprisoned and tortured by her father. Determined to find a way out of her misery, Apattar must go on a journey across the world to discover who she is meant to be, and who the mysterious man she can’t stop thinking about is.
I loved the writing and story in this book! I found myself occasionally confused about the many gods and locations that this book takes place in, but the writing is lovely and the overall plot is enchanting and leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait for book two!
“She would twist me, end me. I can feel it in my soul. She could never love me.”
“Haven’t you grown tired of the aching void inside, always hungering, always consuming?”
“Death by her hand would taste so sweet.”
Born during an eclipse, Apattar was supposed to die. Through her mother’s love, her life was spared, but only to be imprisoned and tortured by her father. Determined to find a way out of her misery, Apattar must go on a journey across the world to discover who she is meant to be, and who the mysterious man she can’t stop thinking about is.
I loved the writing and story in this book! I found myself occasionally confused about the many gods and locations that this book takes place in, but the writing is lovely and the overall plot is enchanting and leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait for book two!
“She would twist me, end me. I can feel it in my soul. She could never love me.”
“Haven’t you grown tired of the aching void inside, always hungering, always consuming?”
“Death by her hand would taste so sweet.”
August 12, 2025
Daughter of the Dark Sun - D. Kathleen McAteer
Words cannot describe how obsessed I am with this book. The writing is phenomenal and so beautiful. The characters are so complex and I loved learning about them, the world they’re in and their struggles and trauma. I love the idea of music based magic and it’s so unique. The world building is just amazing and I will read every book in this universe. Mireithren and Therat are amazing and I can’t wait to see more of them as well as the other side characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Songs of the Night, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ one bed, trauma to strength, slow burn, enemies to lovers, fated mates, found family, gods, curses, music based magic, shadow daddy FMC, POC representation, mental health and trauma representation, Black Cat x Tortured Cinnamon Roll, dark romance, fantasy romance
Words cannot describe how obsessed I am with this book. The writing is phenomenal and so beautiful. The characters are so complex and I loved learning about them, the world they’re in and their struggles and trauma. I love the idea of music based magic and it’s so unique. The world building is just amazing and I will read every book in this universe. Mireithren and Therat are amazing and I can’t wait to see more of them as well as the other side characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Songs of the Night, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ one bed, trauma to strength, slow burn, enemies to lovers, fated mates, found family, gods, curses, music based magic, shadow daddy FMC, POC representation, mental health and trauma representation, Black Cat x Tortured Cinnamon Roll, dark romance, fantasy romance
August 20, 2025
For me, I think a fantasy novel would be the hardest to write. Being able to create mystical realms with their own history is a gift. D. Kathleen is a talented writer with lush descriptions that do paint a vivid picture of the world she has created. The first third, or so, of the book did start off slow for me, but that could just be a me thing. I also think that happens sometimes when you are getting used to a new world. Once the story picked up I was in it. I love Appatar. She is such a well written character. My heart broke for her. I also loved how Therat and her really felt like a team. I love how he supports her and is ready to burn everything down for her. The banter was also a delight. I look forward to seeing where this story goes.
Thanks to the author for the ARC and congrats on the debut!
Thanks to the author for the ARC and congrats on the debut!
August 20, 2025
Now, you KNOW I love a good (bad? Morally grey?) shadow mommy. Behold: Apattar has entered the chat!
~ ARC Review ~
What a fascinating world to walk through! I absolutely adored the setting and found myself lost in it. Literally. It was almost kind of a lot, but that’s okay! I’ll definitely be back to read again and gain further appreciation of the world building and character development.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to experience this journey, the characters, and the beauty of two lost souls coming together!
“Evil is created by men, not born in our hearts. I know of a place where those like us are loved. You deserve love, Therat. Won’t you fight for it?”
“I’ve already lost myself, Ninann. But out there,” she spread her arms, gesturing toward the southwestern horizon. “Out there, I might find my purpose again.”
YES YOU WILL!!!
~ ARC Review ~
What a fascinating world to walk through! I absolutely adored the setting and found myself lost in it. Literally. It was almost kind of a lot, but that’s okay! I’ll definitely be back to read again and gain further appreciation of the world building and character development.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to experience this journey, the characters, and the beauty of two lost souls coming together!
“Evil is created by men, not born in our hearts. I know of a place where those like us are loved. You deserve love, Therat. Won’t you fight for it?”
“I’ve already lost myself, Ninann. But out there,” she spread her arms, gesturing toward the southwestern horizon. “Out there, I might find my purpose again.”
YES YOU WILL!!!
June 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ARC Review!
📖 Daughter of the Dark Sun by D. Kathleen McAteer
This was such a solid start to her debut dark romantic fantasy! The world-building was intense, with gods, superstition, and a unique music-based magic system that I haven’t seen before! 🎶✨
The beginning was a little slow (hellooo setup 😅), but once we hit parts 2 & 3 — I was in! The emotional depth of Appatar (a strong, fierce FMC I loved!) and Therat (who had such a good slow-burn character arc 🖤) really carried the story.
Only a couple spicy scenes, but the tension and build-up? Chef’s kiss 🔥
There were a lot of gods and details to keep track of, which got a bit confusing at times, but it didn’t take away from the overall experience.
Can’t wait to see where book 2 takes these characters! Bring on more Appatar & Therat! 💀🖤✨
📖 Daughter of the Dark Sun by D. Kathleen McAteer
This was such a solid start to her debut dark romantic fantasy! The world-building was intense, with gods, superstition, and a unique music-based magic system that I haven’t seen before! 🎶✨
The beginning was a little slow (hellooo setup 😅), but once we hit parts 2 & 3 — I was in! The emotional depth of Appatar (a strong, fierce FMC I loved!) and Therat (who had such a good slow-burn character arc 🖤) really carried the story.
Only a couple spicy scenes, but the tension and build-up? Chef’s kiss 🔥
There were a lot of gods and details to keep track of, which got a bit confusing at times, but it didn’t take away from the overall experience.
Can’t wait to see where book 2 takes these characters! Bring on more Appatar & Therat! 💀🖤✨
August 1, 2025
I received an ARC for this book, but am leaving this review voluntarily. This book was a bit different form what I usually read, but perfect for lovers of romantasy and/or high fantasy. The worldbuilding is amazing - you can really see the author paid attention to detail and it really draws you in as if you're walking through the world yourself. Both Apattar and Therat had my heart immediately from the beginning, I just wanted to give them both a big hug and after all the misery they went through, I couldn't wait for them to meet and find happiness with eachother. I don't blame Therat for being absolutely obsessed with Apattar, because who wouldn't be? I'll keep my eye out for book 2 (and I hope Apattar's father gets what's coming to him because my god that man pissed me off).
August 12, 2025
Daughter of the Dark Sun by D. Kathleen McAteer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The shadows brought him to Mireithren, and Mireithren brought him home.” 🤍
Appatar, the daughter of the dark sun, abused and broken by her father who believes she is cursed, embarks on a journey to find herself.. and him. Therat, broken and trapped in the shadows in his mind, wrestles with the trauma of his past and the voices in his head. Together, can they save the world?
The characters in this novel are beautifully broken with a tragic past and an uncertain future. The world building is complex and fascinating. The concept and plot.. chefs kiss! Also, a shadow mommy - start the car!
Congratulations to D. Kathleen McAteer on her debut novel! What a great start to, what will be, an amazing series!
Reminder to read trigger warnings!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The shadows brought him to Mireithren, and Mireithren brought him home.” 🤍
Appatar, the daughter of the dark sun, abused and broken by her father who believes she is cursed, embarks on a journey to find herself.. and him. Therat, broken and trapped in the shadows in his mind, wrestles with the trauma of his past and the voices in his head. Together, can they save the world?
The characters in this novel are beautifully broken with a tragic past and an uncertain future. The world building is complex and fascinating. The concept and plot.. chefs kiss! Also, a shadow mommy - start the car!
Congratulations to D. Kathleen McAteer on her debut novel! What a great start to, what will be, an amazing series!
Reminder to read trigger warnings!
August 22, 2025
If you like morally grey FMCs and the “he falls first”, golden retriever vibes, then this book is for you!
Our poor girl is cursed from the very beginning (we’re talking since birth) with the ability to wield shadows. Her twin sister has always been favorited by her father because of this curse. If I could give her a hug, I would… because, let’s face it, she deserves it.
She meets our MMC and he’s just a tortured cutie. He ends up falling first. If I could give one critique about our man here, he could be a bit more detailed about his trauma so I’m really hoping that comes with book two! Overall, I really loved our two MC’s dynamic; they’re funny, witty, and… well, feral. I’m all here for it.
Rating: 4.5/5 ✨
Our poor girl is cursed from the very beginning (we’re talking since birth) with the ability to wield shadows. Her twin sister has always been favorited by her father because of this curse. If I could give her a hug, I would… because, let’s face it, she deserves it.
She meets our MMC and he’s just a tortured cutie. He ends up falling first. If I could give one critique about our man here, he could be a bit more detailed about his trauma so I’m really hoping that comes with book two! Overall, I really loved our two MC’s dynamic; they’re funny, witty, and… well, feral. I’m all here for it.
Rating: 4.5/5 ✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
I just want to say for a debut novel this was really good! You can tell when a lot of thought goes into world building, plot, and characters, and D. Kathleen McAteer did a phenonmenal job with that. The way that the book reads is more like it's being narrated, but is still so easy to get captivated in and swept up in the midst of it.
Apattar and Therat are definitely two tortured souls, and them finding each other feels so sweet... Or it should, but man the banter, back and forth, teasing, and dynamic between them is so delicious that it's anything but sweet. I loved reading about them so much, and at this point I am a sold reader for any book that is written by D. Kathleen McAteer.
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
I just want to say for a debut novel this was really good! You can tell when a lot of thought goes into world building, plot, and characters, and D. Kathleen McAteer did a phenonmenal job with that. The way that the book reads is more like it's being narrated, but is still so easy to get captivated in and swept up in the midst of it.
Apattar and Therat are definitely two tortured souls, and them finding each other feels so sweet... Or it should, but man the banter, back and forth, teasing, and dynamic between them is so delicious that it's anything but sweet. I loved reading about them so much, and at this point I am a sold reader for any book that is written by D. Kathleen McAteer.
October 31, 2025
It was bit of a slow start for me as there was a hefty chunk of world building and not too much romantic interactions. Lowkey I thought this was going to be kind of gay considering that the FMC’s closest bonds were between women.
But once they started to interact, they really flipped the script with the woman being the shadow mommy pursing the MMC.
And both being POC MC?! My fav.
Like once they got a hold of each other, they were FREAKED out like I was kicking my feet and giggling and shit.
That was pretty short lived and bam, back to plot and narrative.
It ends on a very open ended cliff hanger which kind of has me antsy because the cliff isn’t small.
Overall, a really solid fantasy with a side of romance.
4/5 stars
But once they started to interact, they really flipped the script with the woman being the shadow mommy pursing the MMC.
And both being POC MC?! My fav.
Like once they got a hold of each other, they were FREAKED out like I was kicking my feet and giggling and shit.
That was pretty short lived and bam, back to plot and narrative.
It ends on a very open ended cliff hanger which kind of has me antsy because the cliff isn’t small.
Overall, a really solid fantasy with a side of romance.
4/5 stars
August 1, 2025
This book gave me whiplash - it took me about 65% to get into it, but once that 65% hit? It HIT. I was sucked in with no way out. I am so glad that I pushed through to the finish.
The beginning is a LOT of world and character building, which isn't something I typically read a lot of - I have a pretty low attention span. 😅 There's a lot of back and forth between the main characters in their POVs, of seeing their pain, their growth. You see a good chunk of the world they live in, learning their culture and how they worship their gods.
This is a very slow burn, but it is WORTH IT, I promise. I can't wait to see what the next book has in store for us!
The beginning is a LOT of world and character building, which isn't something I typically read a lot of - I have a pretty low attention span. 😅 There's a lot of back and forth between the main characters in their POVs, of seeing their pain, their growth. You see a good chunk of the world they live in, learning their culture and how they worship their gods.
This is a very slow burn, but it is WORTH IT, I promise. I can't wait to see what the next book has in store for us!
August 2, 2025
I know we all love a good fantasy read with shadow daddies, but get ready for Apattar! She is a badass shadow mommy swirling in feminine rage.
This book has so much to love. The world building is insane. The main characters are wrapped in trauma and darkness but continue to fight on. There are gods and curses. Even a super unique music-based magic system!
Daughter of the Dark Sun will have you feeling all the emotions. The story touches on some sensitive subjects, and it is a dark fantasy, so check the trigger warnings. For me tho, I loved every minute and just cannot wait to see what happens next!
D. Kathleen, congratulations on your debut novel. You SMASHED it!
This book has so much to love. The world building is insane. The main characters are wrapped in trauma and darkness but continue to fight on. There are gods and curses. Even a super unique music-based magic system!
Daughter of the Dark Sun will have you feeling all the emotions. The story touches on some sensitive subjects, and it is a dark fantasy, so check the trigger warnings. For me tho, I loved every minute and just cannot wait to see what happens next!
D. Kathleen, congratulations on your debut novel. You SMASHED it!
August 13, 2025
"Evil is created by our own hands, not borne in our hearts."
Where to start?
D. Kathleen has beautiful prose. Her writing is lyrical and easy to digest, making it quick to fall into her world. The characters are rich and multi dimensional, dealing with traumas and having a magic that is seen as taboo- something that they should have been killed for at birth. They're fated lovers who try and resist the pull only to find it impossible to do so.
This book had a lot of set up and I'm incredibly excited to see where the rest of the series takes everyone!
***i received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Where to start?
D. Kathleen has beautiful prose. Her writing is lyrical and easy to digest, making it quick to fall into her world. The characters are rich and multi dimensional, dealing with traumas and having a magic that is seen as taboo- something that they should have been killed for at birth. They're fated lovers who try and resist the pull only to find it impossible to do so.
This book had a lot of set up and I'm incredibly excited to see where the rest of the series takes everyone!
***i received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2025
This is a dense, high fantasy with all the right elements: intricate worldbuilding, unique magic system, deities interwoven into the plot, and protagonists bound by shared trauma. I can only imagine the brilliance behind the author’s mind while crafting this—there's detail, discretion, and undeniable complexity.
It’s not a light read—you’ll likely revisit sections to fully grasp the layered storytelling. Maybe a glossary or definition with some terms or phrases will help a lot. It’s a story that demands your attention and keeps you engaged and eager to see what unfolds next.
Thank you for the ARC opportunity 🙌.
It’s not a light read—you’ll likely revisit sections to fully grasp the layered storytelling. Maybe a glossary or definition with some terms or phrases will help a lot. It’s a story that demands your attention and keeps you engaged and eager to see what unfolds next.
Thank you for the ARC opportunity 🙌.
August 25, 2025
I was really excited about the premise of this book and am so grateful to D Kathleen for the opportunity to read this as an ARC reader!
The writing is very poetic and descriptive but at times I felt myself getting lost in the prose and had to reread paragraphs to absorb what I was reading.
The angst, yearning, and anguish felt by the characters was the predominant emotion in the story. The first 60% of the story was a lot of internal strife with some minor plot with the real progress happening in the last 10-20% of the story. I wish the pacing had been a little more even.
I did enjoy the story and will definitely read the next volume but it was just a tad too slow of a burn for me.
The writing is very poetic and descriptive but at times I felt myself getting lost in the prose and had to reread paragraphs to absorb what I was reading.
The angst, yearning, and anguish felt by the characters was the predominant emotion in the story. The first 60% of the story was a lot of internal strife with some minor plot with the real progress happening in the last 10-20% of the story. I wish the pacing had been a little more even.
I did enjoy the story and will definitely read the next volume but it was just a tad too slow of a burn for me.
July 26, 2025
Apattar has been subjected to "purification" by her father. Which is nothing but abuse due to their superstitions.
Apattar meets Therat, and things turn around for her.
I never thought that a Shadow "daddy" could be a Shadow "mommy".
And did D. Kathleen McAteer bring it in this book? Ummm, yes, she did!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
😈 SHE'S the Shadow Daddy
💗 Slow Burn Romance
⚔️ Enemies-to-Lovers
💖 Fated Lovers
💓 Found Family
🌶️ Open Door
🛏️ One Bed
👄 She Bites
Apattar meets Therat, and things turn around for her.
I never thought that a Shadow "daddy" could be a Shadow "mommy".
And did D. Kathleen McAteer bring it in this book? Ummm, yes, she did!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
😈 SHE'S the Shadow Daddy
💗 Slow Burn Romance
⚔️ Enemies-to-Lovers
💖 Fated Lovers
💓 Found Family
🌶️ Open Door
🛏️ One Bed
👄 She Bites
August 11, 2025
I enjoyed this story. It was different, creative, and dark, so make sure to check the TWs/CWs. I loved that it is music based and we were provided a playlist to help introduce the mood and journey. Our FMC, Appattar, was born during an eclipse and considered a child of the dark goddess and was supposed to die, but her mother saved her, only to have her father try everything to purge her of the dark. This story includes gods, superstitions, lore, and a unique magic system. Appattar is on a journey of self-discovery and believes there is more out there for her. On Appattar’s journey she is hopeful of finding she is not what everyone claims she was born to be, cursed. On this journey is where she meets the MMC, Therat, another traumatized soul whom she must convince to help her. There is a lot of character building, growth and worldbuilding throughout and is in no way predictable. There are some twists that through me for a loop (in a great way), and I’m excited to see where it goes.
Thank you to the author for a gifted eARC.
Thank you to the author for a gifted eARC.
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