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Dawn of Darkness

Not yet published
Expected 30 Apr 26
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Some battles are fought in the light.
Hers will be in the shadows.

In the fractured world of Emberleria, strength is survival and magic is power. Those born without it are cast out as rogues, left to die in the wilds or be claimed by the King’s slave drivers.

Lilian Ashcroft, commander of her pack’s warriors, has spent her life training to become a Guardian – to protect those she loves most. But when the King announces the annual Rogue Games with a deadly twist, her life shatters. Rage and despair drives her into the borderlands… and straight into the King’s chains.

Thrown into the heart of the Volskar, Lilian is forced to fight for her survival. Victory demands she forge uneasy alliances, outwit her enemies and face the lies haunting the Kingdom’s elite.

Yet an ancient evil prowls the castle's shadowed halls, killing innocents for sport. And deep beneath the fortress, a forgotten library guards a bewitched gate – the secrets beyond could unravel the very fabric of the realm.

But some gates, once opened, can never be closed.

435 pages, Paperback

Expected publication April 30, 2026

45 people want to read

About the author

Angie Rose

1 book12 followers

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5 stars
15 (62%)
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7 (29%)
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2 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Cailin.
4 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2026
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
_______________

I just finished reading “Dawn of Darkness” by Angie Rose, Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect going into my first ARC, but this book totally delivered. It’s a dark fantasy, but it’s a slow burn, so you really get into the world and the characters. There are shifters, shadow monsters, and a seriously strong female lead, which I personally really loved. Lilian is an amazingly strong character and someone you can easily relate to. Plus, there’s a little bit of spice to keep things interesting! 🌶️ The ending, though? Seriously left me wanting more. I’ve got so many questions and I’m itching to know where Angie Rose takes these characters next. Definitely check it out when you can!


Pre-orders start January 8th, 2026, and it officially drops April 1st, 2026. 🗡️🥀🐺
Profile Image for Nicole Kralis.
70 reviews7 followers
December 1, 2025
I was lucky enough to read this book and man was it good! I loved the plot and getting to know Lilian. I loved seeing Lilian grow and come into herself through the book. I am ready to see how their story unfolds in book 2. Angie Rose is an amazing author and I will for sure be reading anything that she puts out because of her amazing attention to detail and her beautiful stories. Take a chance on this amazing indie author because you won't regret it!!! 5 star read for me!!!
Profile Image for Nikki Ibarra.
13 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2026
Dawn of Darkness is the kind of dark fantasy that sinks its claws into you early and refuses to let go.

This story is heavy on atmosphere, tension, and emotional weight. From the beginning, you can feel that nothing in this world comes without consequence. The FMC is a true leader disciplined, deadly, and deeply human. Her strength isn’t flashy or effortless; it’s forged through responsibility, sacrifice, and impossible choices, which makes her incredibly compelling to follow.

The worldbuilding is layered and immersive without slowing the story down. Pack dynamics, magic, and hierarchy feel natural and lived-in, and the political undercurrent adds a constant sense of unease. There’s an ever present tension that builds quietly, making even the calmer moments feel fragile.

What stood out most to me was the emotional core. Loyalty, found family, and the cost of duty are at the heart of this book. The relationships feel earned, and the bonds between characters add real depth without overshadowing the plot.

Dark, gripping, and emotionally charged, Dawn of Darkness is a strong start to what promises to be a brutal and addictive series. I closed this book already wanting the next one.
Profile Image for Ashley  Hope.
6 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 5, 2026
Dawn of Darkness by Angie Rose ✨
​If you’re into dark fantasy with high stakes and total "underdog" energy, you need to add this to your TBR! 🐺🗡️
​The vibes are very Hunger Games meets ACOTAR. We follow Lilian, a pack commander who was born without magic in a world that basically treats you like trash if you aren't "elemental." She’s tough, resilient, and super easy to root for.
​The story takes a dark turn when she gets thrown into these brutal "Rogue Games"—a deadly maze full of traps and monsters. The world-building is super atmospheric (it gets pretty grim in the slave mines and the castle dungeons!), and there’s this constant mystery about what the King is actually hiding in the shadows. 🏰🌑
​Why read it?
​Strong FMC: Lilian is a literal warrior.
​High Tension: The Arcaedis (the maze) is terrifying.
​The Mystery: There’s a "beast" in the castle and a secret library that kept me turning pages way too late.
​It’s an ARC, so it’s the start of a new series (The Emberlerian Chronicles), and fair warning: that ending will leave you screaming for book two! 🐉🔥
​Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vibe: Dark, gritty, and addictive.
Profile Image for Cindy Fletcher.
6 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 13, 2026
Dawn of Darkness is a dark fantasy by Indie author, Angie Rose. She gave me the privilege to be on her ARC team. Thank you, Angie, for the honor! It was amazing!
The female lead, Lilian, is engaging and memorable in the way that she loves and cares deeply for all life and would sacrifice herself for everyone. There is magic, shifters, and shadow monsters with a side of romance.
Angie Rose really wowed me with this book, with so many amazing characters and twists. I can't wait for book 2 to come out. In the meantime, I definitely recommend Dawn of Darkness. You won't be disappointed.

Pre-orders start January 8th, 2026

Sales start April 1, 2026

Run don't walk Please!!
Profile Image for Lilia Melisse.
42 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 6, 2026
Dawn of Darkness absolutely grabbed me by the collar and said, you’re not sleeping tonight and honestly, rude but fair.

This is dark fantasy with teeth. The kind that sinks in early and never lets go. Lilian Ashcroft is the kind of FMC I live for: disciplined, deadly, and fiercely loyal. Watching her fight, adapt, and come into her own was deeply satisfying. Her strength is earned, not flashy, and that made her impossible not to root for.

The worldbuilding is rich without being overwhelming. Pack dynamics, hierarchy, politics, and magic all feel lived in, and there’s this constant, low-grade tension humming in the background like something terrible is always about to happen (because it usually is). The Rogue Games? Brutal. The castle? Suspicious. The secret library? I was feral. Add in a lurking ancient evil and a King who definitely knows more than he’s saying, and I was fully locked in.

What really surprised me was the emotional core. Found family, loyalty, and the cost of duty hit hard, and the relationships feel earned without slowing the plot. And that ending? Criminal. Absolutely criminal.

I closed this book with my brain buzzing, my heart racing, and my TBR screaming for book two. So many thoughts. So many feelings. So many theories.
Profile Image for Lauren Brodie.
42 reviews3 followers
January 11, 2026
So I have been extremely lucky to receive this as an arc and oh my god I’m so glad I did. This was giving games and trials, fated mates, trauma, tension. When I came across this book and was told it was a Witcher x game of thrones vibes at every turn, this was soooo true and I devoured this in 2 sittings.

This was only the second book I have ever read about wolves and shifters and it did not disappoint!

The FMC is such a strong character and she literally goes through hell and back and still would put her life on the line for everyone around her. ‘I am strong, I am resilient and I will never break’ and she definitely proved that time and time again.

The side characters you go through loving and hating and I love it when a book has you unsure on who to trust. I still have so many unanswered questions but for book one of a fantasy that is exactly what you want to be left feeling like, I want more!

This book is extremely well written with a clear plot line, some fantastic plot twists, characters you can connect with and get behind, characters you wish you could take out yourself and an ending that had me screaming for book two immediately!
Profile Image for Rachel Brennan.
7 reviews2 followers
January 11, 2026
“I am strong, I am resilient, and I will never break,” she whispered into the earth. Lilian Ashcroft is the perfect example of a strong relatable FMC. She is the Commander of her pack, thrown into a world of secrets, slavery, deception and shadow monsters. In a world where you never know what awaits you or who to trust, she is determined to stay true to herself no matter the consequences. Join her on this epic journey of becoming who she was always meant to be through her trials and tribulations in this Dark Romantasy book. This book not only has a strong FMC, but shifters, shadow monsters, and a touch of spice. You get to know and love all the characters and I cannot wait for book twos release date!!
Profile Image for Eden Huntsman.
323 reviews19 followers
January 19, 2026
I struggled to rate this book due to a few things. The plot is definitely good and the characters introduced. It feels like a set up book for the next book. I feel like a lot happened but also not at the same time. The development of the plot was good but I struggle getting into some of it. I won’t spoil but there is a lot left to answer in the next book which i hope happens. I feel like it the events were good and so was the mystery aspect. I don’t know how I feel about the ending or what the prince’s role is yet. I just seem to be missing the draw to the story or being sucked in. I need more to draw me in. I did enjoy the different characters and how the games went. It gives hunger games vibes. I like that there is still good within the darkness.

3.5/5⭐️

Some spice but not much and not between main characters
Profile Image for Sara.
50 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 27, 2026
What can I say, This book had me on the edge of my seat. I questioned nearly everything, who are the good guys, who are the bad guys and most of all who will win the first round of the battle.

I may even be rooting for the ones I shouldn't be rooting for. shh my moneys on the prince.

And that last sentence please could this author be anymore cruel.

Fantastic read. Just a few jumpy bits but a definite hurry up with the next book please.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
15 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 11, 2026
4.25 stars - ARC Review

This book sucked me in from the beginning! It felt like a mix Throne of Glass, The Hunger Games, and From Blood and Ash all rolled into one, with a pinch of nostalgia and ✨crack✨ : bottom line, I was addicted and I need MORE!

This story follows Lilian, a wolf shifter that for whatever reason, never developed any elemental magic. Despite this, she was the strongest warrior of her pack, an amazing teacher and a true asset to not only her friends but anyone that came to know her.
After a detrimental misstep, Lilian was kidnapped and enslaved, and sentenced to fight and most likely die in the King’s Rouge Wolf tournament.

The friendships and allies Lilian made along this journey was truly beautiful to read. No matter what was thrown at her, Lilian remained strong both physically and mentally, and made sure that no matter what she faced, she would make sure her friends were safe.
The twists and turns in this book, plus the foreshadowing and subtle hints had me highlighting and concocting theories pretty much the whole way!
There were times during reading that I couldn’t picture what was happening, or was confused and had to go back and re-read a bit, but overall this book was excellent and I definitelyyyyy recommend! I cannot wait for book 2 and I am excited so see what comes next!

“I am strong, I am resilient, and I will never break.”

Potential triggers ⚠️ slavery, rape and sexual abuse (off page, not to main character), blood, gore, torture, graphic violence, captivity, explicit sexual content.
Profile Image for Soha Amer.
113 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 10, 2026
Dawn of Darkness is a gripping dark romance that pulls readers into a world where danger, obsession, and passion collide. Angie Rose crafts a story that’s intense, unapologetic, and impossible to put down—perfect for fans of emotionally charged, shadowy romance with compelling characters who walk the line between desire and destruction.

The story follows characters whose pasts are woven with pain, secrets, and scars that don’t easily heal. What sets this book apart is how raw and honest the emotions feel: every hurt, every fleeting moment of trust, and every spark of longing is written with an immersive depth that keeps you turning pages late into the night.

The chemistry in this book is electric, and the tension between the leads is unrelenting. Lillian’s internal struggles, paired with the intensity of the male lead, create a dynamic that’s equal parts emotional and dangerous. Angie Rose doesn’t sugarcoat—it leans into the darkness but always gives just enough light to make the journey feel real, not hopeless.

The pacing is strong, with moments that break your heart next to moments that take your breath away. Whether it’s the gut-wrenching backstory or the charged scenes between the characters, Dawn of Darkness knows how to hit every beat with precision and impact.

If you’re drawn to dark, passion-fueled romances with depth, complexity, and unforgettable characters, Dawn of Darkness will stay with you long after you finish the last page.
Profile Image for Yolanda.
95 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 11, 2026
This book is not a literary masterpiece.
Wait, don’t leave. Let me explain.

Yes, the world building is decent but not mind-blowing. Yes, some of the dialogue is clunky. Yes, a few characters could use a little more depth. But… this book was ridiculously entertaining. I devoured about 80% of it in one sitting, which tells you everything you need to know.

The plot is fairly classic fantasy fare: evil king, oppressed people, terrible things happening. Nothing groundbreaking there. However, there is a twist woven in that genuinely caught my attention, and I’m absolutely not spoiling it, so you’ll just have to trust me.

And of course, as someone who is hopelessly devoted to the deadly trials trope… this book had me from the start. I only wish we’d spent more time in the trials, because those were easily my favorite parts.

Is it perfect? No.
Is it fun, fast-paced, and addictive? Absolutely.

Sometimes you don’t need perfection. Sometimes you just need a book that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go, and Dawn of Darkness did exactly that.
Profile Image for Lilith  Blake.
6 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 8, 2026
A true dark fantasy, Dawn of Darkness delivers everything it promises and even more. It will leave you gasping and screaming for book two by the time you finish!

We follow Lilian Ashcroft as she navigates so many challenges thrown her way—from a Commander of her pack’s warriors to fighting for her survival.

Her journey is brutal, from the dangerous mines where she has to endure her new fate, where certain choices will leave her to face the consequences, to the Arena and its deadly maze, where she has to come out victorious or face death—but so do the other contestants!

There are dark secrets and mysteries lurking in the castle’s corridors at night, forcing Lilian to run for her life and uncover the truth before everything catches up with her. Not to mention a few encounters with a certain prince that will have you stumbling to the next page for more.

This book left me in a whirlwind of emotions from start to finish and I loved every moment of it.
Profile Image for Mirandia.
34 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 10, 2026
4.5 stars. Nothing in this world happens without consequences. It has more plot than spice for a dark fantasy book but I still. Would have been a 5 star if there was more spice but I still loved the book. You get to know the characters on a personally level and it left like you were experiencing what they were experiencing, I loved every minute of it. This is a great book for someone who’s just getting into the fantasy world because it’s not overbearing like some books can be when someone is first starting to read. Everything in this book was smooth and connect together and didn’t get boring or confusing. Loved how the book wasn’t focused on just two main pov’s, you got an understanding from different pov’s and that made the book even better. Im terrible at reviews so I don’t know what else to say but I’m excited to see what happens in the next, the author did a wonderful job at writing this book and everyone should add this their long list of TBR.
Profile Image for Twinkle.butt.reads.
313 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 16, 2026
Dawn of Darkness pulls readers into a hauntingly rich world where shadows linger and history refuses to stay buried. The story follows Lilian as she navigates a mysterious library tied to the War of Ember and the legacy of the infamous King Casimir. Every page feels heavy with secrets, betrayal, and the lingering presence of darkness.

The library, the sea of darkness, and the cursed kingdom are vividly described, creating an eerie and immersive setting. The history of demons, betrayal, and a fallen kingdom adds depth and keeps the tension simmering beneath the surface. Lilian’s inner struggles and conflicted feelings about King Casimir make her a compelling and relatable protagonist.

Dawn of Darkness is a strong choice for fans of dark fantasy who enjoy layered lore, moral ambiguity, and a brooding tone. If you like stories that prioritize mood, mystery, and complex characters over constant action, this book is well worth the journey into the shadows
Profile Image for Jessica.
10 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 28, 2026
ARC review – thank you to the author for the advanced copy.

Dawn of Darkness has a strong, dark fantasy atmosphere and an interesting premise that immediately caught my attention. The world itself is intriguing, and there are moments where the tension and darker themes really shine.

I went into this expecting a bit more romance than what we get, which left me wanting more emotional depth and development between the characters. I also found that some sections were slightly confusing and needed rereading to fully understand what was happening, which pulled me out of the story at times.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read with clear potential, especially for readers who prefer darker fantasy with minimal romance. I’m interested to see how the series develops moving forward and will definitely be reading any future books.
Profile Image for Ashley Olmeda.
89 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 5, 2026
I had the pleasure of Beta reading this book and omg it is a must read! Do not miss this one. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and I can’t wait to get book 2. The plot and the writing are chefs kiss. This debut novel is going places. Look out Rebecca Yarros because Angie is coming to town! All my fantasy lovers who enjoyed fourth wing do not pass this one up!
Profile Image for Jenn.
181 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 6, 2026
This was really good. The world building was really nice. This book reminds me of the Hunger Games + Underworld. If you seen any of the Underworld and Hunger Games movies, this book would be for you. I highly recommend this. And I want to thank the author for letting me to read this book as an ARC.
69 reviews
Review of advance copy
January 18, 2026
This book is a dark fantasy slow burn. It has shifters and shadow monsters. The FMC was loyal, strong and disciplined.
Ummmm can I please get book 2!

“I am strong, I am resilient, and I will never break”

I received this book as an arc read and i really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Brandihreads.
81 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 23, 2026
My thoughts:
This was a quick and enjoyable read. There is great character development and the world building was immersive, setting up for the rest of the series. I loved getting to know Lilian, a wolf shifter with no elemental magic, a commander of her pack. She goes through so much trauma but refuses to break. Make sure to check your trigger warnings! There was not a lot of romance but the group of characters were amazing and there was a few plot twists.

Read if you love:
🖤 Dark fantasy
🖤 Elemental Magic
🖤 Shadow monsters
🖤 Medieval setting
🖤 No plot armor
🖤 Shifters
🖤 Trials

Thank you to the author for the early copy! 🫶🏼

“I am strong, I am resilient, and I will never break.”
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