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Cousins of Constantinium #1
Sunset at Dawn
1180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2026
About the author
Jes Drew
79 books553 followersJes Drew is the author of 60+ books including the Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor Series, the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, Love of Legends, and Bound by Death.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. A gremlin that resembles a cat keeps her busy when she's not writing about hard-won happily ever afters.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. A gremlin that resembles a cat keeps her busy when she's not writing about hard-won happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 13, 2026
Okay writing, good story, great romance. I did have my problems with the plot progression, and disappointments as to what the book was actually about, but I’d say this was a success. Mostly because of Elspeth and Otello’s romance.
I originally picked this book up because I thought it was going to be a mix of Arthuriana and Robin Hood, that kind of stuff. And the vibes were definitely there. But I wouldn’t say this is what I expected it would be.
It’s divided into three books, Betrayal & Banditry, Treason & Thievery, and Romance & Robbery. I’ll just go over the overall plot of this collection, share my thoughts book by book, but there aren’t going to be any spoilers from me as it always is, unless explicitly stated.
Betrayal & Banditry started off strong. We’re following two people, Prince Otello and Elspeth. And between them, it’s an enemies-to-lovers waiting to happen. She’s the Bandit Queen, a disgraced noblewoman/elf turned thief. He’s a Prince, too noble for his own good. They couldn’t be more different, yet as everybody and their mother knows, they’ll end up falling in love.
As I said, I didn’t realize this was going to have Arthurian vibes, not Arthurian characters. So that affected my enjoyment of the first of the three books. Then I got over it and everything was all good again. Book two was so much better. And then book three lost me for so much of it.
The writing was all right, really nothing much to say about it except that it read very very quickly. And it’s just a very addicting story, you find yourself reading for hours without looking up once. But I can’t ignore that it was really quite average in the way of writing style. I do like my Arthuriana (which this isn’t really, but I can’t help but make comparisons) to be lyrical a lot of the time, and I guess I had expectations that weren’t met.
But the romance. Oh, the romance. First of all it’s clean, bonus points for that. But the yearning between them. The longing. They drove me insane! They’re both head over heels in love with each other, have an honest conversation and see you’re in love! Please! But that made it so much better, the loving from afar. They are married mind you, but you get what I mean. The friendships in this were also so sweet. Just the relationships between characters, that’s one thing that was done more than right.
By book three my interest was wavering a little. I was in it, then I wasn’t and then I was back in it again. It’s the saddest and darkest of the three, which is a high impact situation, but I still preferred the second installment to the third.
Overall, it really is pretty good once you get past the initial disappointment of it not being very Arthurian/Robin Hood leaning. The vibes are there for sure though, I see what the intentions were. Overall, it’s a 3.75/5⭐️ Maybe even a four. Would recommend, if you’re looking for a clean fantasy romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I originally picked this book up because I thought it was going to be a mix of Arthuriana and Robin Hood, that kind of stuff. And the vibes were definitely there. But I wouldn’t say this is what I expected it would be.
It’s divided into three books, Betrayal & Banditry, Treason & Thievery, and Romance & Robbery. I’ll just go over the overall plot of this collection, share my thoughts book by book, but there aren’t going to be any spoilers from me as it always is, unless explicitly stated.
Betrayal & Banditry started off strong. We’re following two people, Prince Otello and Elspeth. And between them, it’s an enemies-to-lovers waiting to happen. She’s the Bandit Queen, a disgraced noblewoman/elf turned thief. He’s a Prince, too noble for his own good. They couldn’t be more different, yet as everybody and their mother knows, they’ll end up falling in love.
As I said, I didn’t realize this was going to have Arthurian vibes, not Arthurian characters. So that affected my enjoyment of the first of the three books. Then I got over it and everything was all good again. Book two was so much better. And then book three lost me for so much of it.
The writing was all right, really nothing much to say about it except that it read very very quickly. And it’s just a very addicting story, you find yourself reading for hours without looking up once. But I can’t ignore that it was really quite average in the way of writing style. I do like my Arthuriana (which this isn’t really, but I can’t help but make comparisons) to be lyrical a lot of the time, and I guess I had expectations that weren’t met.
But the romance. Oh, the romance. First of all it’s clean, bonus points for that. But the yearning between them. The longing. They drove me insane! They’re both head over heels in love with each other, have an honest conversation and see you’re in love! Please! But that made it so much better, the loving from afar. They are married mind you, but you get what I mean. The friendships in this were also so sweet. Just the relationships between characters, that’s one thing that was done more than right.
By book three my interest was wavering a little. I was in it, then I wasn’t and then I was back in it again. It’s the saddest and darkest of the three, which is a high impact situation, but I still preferred the second installment to the third.
Overall, it really is pretty good once you get past the initial disappointment of it not being very Arthurian/Robin Hood leaning. The vibes are there for sure though, I see what the intentions were. Overall, it’s a 3.75/5⭐️ Maybe even a four. Would recommend, if you’re looking for a clean fantasy romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2026
When Elspeth's barony is invaded in the night and her aunt killed, she and her cousin escape to the woods, vowing revenge. But their loss is part of a scheme much bigger than they could ever have dreamed, threatening the whole empire. When they see a vision of doom, vengeance is put aside to clutch at the one hope of victory - despite the promise of loss and pain accompanying it. As son of the Emperor, Otello has been trained to follow in his footsteps, but when his father's death leaves him a fugitive and exposes hints of a deeper plot, he's forced to rely on the Bandit Queen and her motley band of followers - despite his certainty that she's hiding something from him and her insistence on marrying him while refusing to love him. As two unlikely allies alternately fight with and for each other, can they find a path through prophecies, visions and the desires of their own hearts to avoid destruction - for the empire, if not for themselves?
Wow! While this is called book 1 in a series, it's actually three books which form a single, complete story. And that means, it's long! but that's not in any way a bad thing. It's a sweeping saga that held me enthralled from the start, even when I didn't really have time for it… I loved watching Elspeth and Otello getting to know each other, unwilling falling for each other, and then trying to make everything come out in a way that's not horrible. They're often in the position to need to make unpleasant decisions, and it was inspiring watching them try to make the right choices, even if they don't always know what that is, and certainly don't always do so. But the secondary characters were just as good - I felt for Otello's brother Heinrich in all he went through, and also enjoyed getting to know Irwin, Meredith, Uriel and the rest - not to mention WolfBear. And as for the villains - well, if you appreciate a truly self-centred, evil villain, you've got one central one and several main accomplices that you can hate to your heart's content and enjoy watching eventually lose. I was glad we didn't get in any of their 'heads' - I got to see quite enough of them from the outside. Throw in a very satisfying ending and you've got a book I loved despite the vampires… I'm assuming/hoping Irwin's story is next, and really looking forward to it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow! While this is called book 1 in a series, it's actually three books which form a single, complete story. And that means, it's long! but that's not in any way a bad thing. It's a sweeping saga that held me enthralled from the start, even when I didn't really have time for it… I loved watching Elspeth and Otello getting to know each other, unwilling falling for each other, and then trying to make everything come out in a way that's not horrible. They're often in the position to need to make unpleasant decisions, and it was inspiring watching them try to make the right choices, even if they don't always know what that is, and certainly don't always do so. But the secondary characters were just as good - I felt for Otello's brother Heinrich in all he went through, and also enjoyed getting to know Irwin, Meredith, Uriel and the rest - not to mention WolfBear. And as for the villains - well, if you appreciate a truly self-centred, evil villain, you've got one central one and several main accomplices that you can hate to your heart's content and enjoy watching eventually lose. I was glad we didn't get in any of their 'heads' - I got to see quite enough of them from the outside. Throw in a very satisfying ending and you've got a book I loved despite the vampires… I'm assuming/hoping Irwin's story is next, and really looking forward to it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
After the Emperor legalized the hunting and killing of her people, Elven baroness Elspeth took to the woods to build a new life and pursue her revenge. When her cousin has a vision of the future, it reveals that the empire will soon fall to a devastating evil unless the Sacred Prince survives his father’s death long enough to sacrifice himself for his people. Seeing an opportunity, Elspeth takes it upon herself to protect Prince Otello, and if all goes right, marry him. That way she can prevent another tragedy from affecting her people ever again. But the sheltered prince refuses to cave to her demands, and he is determined to save his brother from the dangers surrounding the throne. As the threat to the kingdom grows, can Elspeth and Otello trust each other enough to succeed?
This was a terrific read. Both Elspeth and Otello are driven and somewhat self-sacrificing, but in intriguingly different ways. Elspeth is a little more cold and self-protective while willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Otello is more naive and pure in his giving nature. Both are willing to do so much out of love, but the dichotomy between the two characters' perspectives creates greater depth to the exploration of what exactly sacrifice looks like. They also have a similar difference in their view of God, and as the story progresses, they each struggle in different ways with their faith in very realistic ways. I also loved the growing romantic tension between them, as they both fell for each other against their best efforts.
Sunset at Dawn is a trilogy omnibus that contains Betrayal and Banditry, Treason and Thievery, and Romance and Robbery. It thoroughly explores themes of revenge, justice, love, and sacrifice. The world building was fantastically immersive with multiple cultures and creatures.The side characters were fully realized with their own motivations, personal dramas and growth. I appreciated being able to move through all three books at once, as the story had immediately pulled me in, and I did not want to put it down. An overall gut wrenching and satisfying read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a terrific read. Both Elspeth and Otello are driven and somewhat self-sacrificing, but in intriguingly different ways. Elspeth is a little more cold and self-protective while willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Otello is more naive and pure in his giving nature. Both are willing to do so much out of love, but the dichotomy between the two characters' perspectives creates greater depth to the exploration of what exactly sacrifice looks like. They also have a similar difference in their view of God, and as the story progresses, they each struggle in different ways with their faith in very realistic ways. I also loved the growing romantic tension between them, as they both fell for each other against their best efforts.
Sunset at Dawn is a trilogy omnibus that contains Betrayal and Banditry, Treason and Thievery, and Romance and Robbery. It thoroughly explores themes of revenge, justice, love, and sacrifice. The world building was fantastically immersive with multiple cultures and creatures.The side characters were fully realized with their own motivations, personal dramas and growth. I appreciated being able to move through all three books at once, as the story had immediately pulled me in, and I did not want to put it down. An overall gut wrenching and satisfying read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 15, 2026
Jes Drew’s epic fantasy, Sunset at Dawn, collects the 3 books following the sacred prince, Otello, and his fated mate, displaced elf Baroness turned Bandit Queen, Elspeth, and their quest to save Constantinium from an evil sorcerer, Betrayal & Banditry, Treason & Thievery, and Romance & Robbery. An enemies to lovers tale of prophecies and parallel worlds, filled with action, adventure, magic, tragedy, sacrifice, loyalty, love, and resilience with a strong supporting cast of humans, elves, and assorted otherworldly and supernatural beings. Meticulous world building brings both Constantinium and Byzantaple to life, and the narrative told from multiple perspectives keeps the reader engaged throughout. Readers should be aware that there is strong Christian religious imagery integrated into the story. Themes of racism and classism are also explored within the context of the fantasy parameters. The book offers plenty of humor and lighter moments to balance the heavier elements as tensions escalate. The villain is truly evil without being cartoonish and the threat feels real. My heart broke for those that were used and manipulated in the scheme. The heroes were strong and courageous, but flawed, with a strong moral center that was never sanctimonious. Having read other books by Ms. Drew set in this world, I really enjoyed seeing the Emperor’s story brought to life.
I received a review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2026
A wonderful book which I loved reading.
Funny, original story with likable, relatable characters. I was a little doubtful about picking it up because I feared the female main character would be a little too harsh for my taste. But she turned out to be endearingly determined.
Also the main character has his own goal in mind and strives to achieve it in a lovable way. I must say that both are very inexperienced in matters of love and lust ( but that is explained) and that makes it all even more funny and enjoyable.
The story is unpredictable with lots of unexpected twist except for reasonably in the beginning when something happened that for me personally already gave a strong hint about the outcome ( according the afterword the writer did not do this on purpose but planned on writing another ending only then whilst rereading it to see everything was in place for that that when she realised that unconsciously she had put everything for the possibility of a totally different ending, so she went for that. Whatever the case, for me this potential hint worked positively while reding the rest of the book.. All in all this book had everything I am looking for in a book and I am definitely going to read more from her ( if time allows(
Funny, original story with likable, relatable characters. I was a little doubtful about picking it up because I feared the female main character would be a little too harsh for my taste. But she turned out to be endearingly determined.
Also the main character has his own goal in mind and strives to achieve it in a lovable way. I must say that both are very inexperienced in matters of love and lust ( but that is explained) and that makes it all even more funny and enjoyable.
The story is unpredictable with lots of unexpected twist except for reasonably in the beginning when something happened that for me personally already gave a strong hint about the outcome ( according the afterword the writer did not do this on purpose but planned on writing another ending only then whilst rereading it to see everything was in place for that that when she realised that unconsciously she had put everything for the possibility of a totally different ending, so she went for that. Whatever the case, for me this potential hint worked positively while reding the rest of the book.. All in all this book had everything I am looking for in a book and I am definitely going to read more from her ( if time allows(
September 8, 2026
There were aspects of this narrative that were quite interesting. This particular volume is an omnibus of the trilogy by the same name, and is divided into those original three books, which does keep this from feeling too overwhelming.
Though being segmented keeps this from feeling overwhelming, at times it feels as though a fair amount of these pages are dedicated to dictating irrelevant auxiliary information that further disrupts the, already occasionally awkward, pacing of this narrative overall; particularly within the first and third installments. There are also instances when the characters make choices that seem inexplicable beyond serving to extend the length of the narrative.
While this narrative does have some vague parallels that are reminiscent of it being a retelling of both Robin Hood and an Arthurian legend overall, the contrasts weren’t as strong as I was expecting them to be based on the blurb.
This does still strike an interesting balance, and if you can look past a bit of clunkiness I do think it’s worth giving this a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Though being segmented keeps this from feeling overwhelming, at times it feels as though a fair amount of these pages are dedicated to dictating irrelevant auxiliary information that further disrupts the, already occasionally awkward, pacing of this narrative overall; particularly within the first and third installments. There are also instances when the characters make choices that seem inexplicable beyond serving to extend the length of the narrative.
While this narrative does have some vague parallels that are reminiscent of it being a retelling of both Robin Hood and an Arthurian legend overall, the contrasts weren’t as strong as I was expecting them to be based on the blurb.
This does still strike an interesting balance, and if you can look past a bit of clunkiness I do think it’s worth giving this a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 15, 2026
I admired how brave the FMC Elspeth was throughout the struggles and tragedies that she overcame time and time again. Her ability to keep moving forward even when the rest of the world was trying to hold her back was absolutely astonishing. She has been one of the bravest heroine’s that I have encountered through Romantasy novels.
The MMC Otello wasn’t as worldly as Elspeth in the beginning of their relationship. So it was endearing to watch this character grow more mature by taking on greater responsibility and sacrifice for those he loved and his kingdom.
There were so many notable characters so I focused on the main two for this review. I wanted to soak in every word so I read this book at every chance I could get. It is not a fast read meaning there are many details you won’t want to pass up. You’ll be glad you took the time to read it cover to cover. I also loved the personal note from the author at the end; it touched my heart. So, grab your copy today!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The MMC Otello wasn’t as worldly as Elspeth in the beginning of their relationship. So it was endearing to watch this character grow more mature by taking on greater responsibility and sacrifice for those he loved and his kingdom.
There were so many notable characters so I focused on the main two for this review. I wanted to soak in every word so I read this book at every chance I could get. It is not a fast read meaning there are many details you won’t want to pass up. You’ll be glad you took the time to read it cover to cover. I also loved the personal note from the author at the end; it touched my heart. So, grab your copy today!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2026
Sunset at Dawn was an engaging fantasy romance with memorable characters, strong worldbuilding, and plenty of emotional depth! Elspeth and Otello are compelling leads whose opposing personalities create great tension, humor, and a satisfying slow-burn romance. I especially enjoyed the blend of prophecy, political intrigue, adventure, and themes of sacrifice, justice, and redemption. The supporting cast felt well-developed, and having all three books in one collection made it easy to stay immersed in the story (includes Betrayal & Banditry, Treason & Thievery, Romance & Robbery). A wonderful choice for readers who enjoy clean fantasy romance, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, and marriage-of-convenience stories. Highly recommended!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It took me a while to get involved in this book. Elspeth is not a character that you can warm up to quickly. Yes, she's been traumatized, but this hardens her ambitions to the point where you want to say enough already! She doesn't get more likeable until your 78% into the book. The real stars here are Prince/Emperor Otello and his brother Heinrich. The obstacles that they face make then even more likeable, Otello as the sweet naive prince who wants to do what's right, and Heinrich who is practically destroyed by the evil sorcerer. The other supporting characters have their flaws as well. Seemed a little too long of a read to me too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Out of all the books I've read by this author, this set is my least favorite. It started off strong. This is essentially an omnibus edition of her Sunset at Dawn series. I love Elspeth and her being the Robin hood and Otello being essentially Arthur. Its a different twist and take on both those retellings. Unfortunately by the time the end came, I was so ready for it to be over. Genuinely this series could have been one book. There was so much unnecessary information and situations and decisions made which made no sense for the characters. Even the big twist at the end wasnt even a twist for me. So many things felt added to lengthen the story. There are good moments and loved book 1, but the rest I wasnt a fan. Still very much love this author though
May 10, 2026
This one immersed me right away. I loved the fantasy world and how Elspeth and Otello's relationship veryyy slowlyyy developed despite all the conflict between them. The banter, magic, and emotional moments kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. I loved the determined she-elf and the doomed chosen one storyline. The female Robin Hood vibes mixed with the noble King Arthur-style hero made the dynamic between the characters so entertaining. The way the fated love and marriage-of-convenience tropes all blended together without feeling overdone. It’s a long one, but it's completely worth the tears, laughs, and squeals along the way. Definitely one of my favorite reads of the year so far!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2026
Enemies to lovers. Arranged marriage because of a prophecy. Closed door romance with lots of kissing. The fantasy elements were well done. I wish there was more about the Shamir. I don't particularly like necromancy yet I could not put the book down. Wonderful tale of good vs evil. I am so thankful that this was three books in one. I don't think I could have waited for the next one to come. The ending turned out better than I expected. I loved this book even though it broke my heart a few times. So much action, banter, and love (both romantic and found family) made this book hard to leave my head.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2026
This tale of misidentification, misunderstood prophecy, political upheaval and crossed intentions is very messy and complicated as two star-crossed lovers try to keep from loving each other. They are united in purpose, though not in mind - which explains how two nobly-minded would-be champions keep butting heads as they attempt to foil a necromatic plot to destroy their world. There is triumph and there is sorrow and there is hope - this trilogy is challenging and troubling to read but worth the effort of finishing.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Sunset at Dawn is Book 1 in the Cousins at Constantinium by Jes Drew. I thought the characters were interesting and very well written. Elspeth is an elf who has lost everything. The Empire took everything from her, so, she is out for revenge. Prince Otello is a scared man who must sacrifice himself to save his people. In my opinion, book 1 is an excellent peek into what promises to be an interesting series. I think that Sunset at Dawn should be on everyone's TBR list. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I enjoyed the world-building and the overall storyline, it’s always exciting to discover something a little different. The characters were interesting and layered. I particularly liked the first book as Elspeth was forced to flee her existing life and build something new with her cousin. Liked the enemies to lovers slow-burn storyline between her and Otello, even as they recognised the prophesies which would impact their lives.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 1, 2026
I'm so excited to see what other stories end up taking place in this world especially with some many possibilities left to explore.
So I have read other stories that Drew set within this world, which means that I have encountered Otello's and Elspeth's names before as well as hints at their story. However, I hadn't read their story before now.
And I absolutely loved it. From the comedic mishaps to the genuine fears that they face to the painful decisions they have to make, this story unfolds beautifully. I definitely don't regret picking it up. Though I wish I would have read it sooner.
So I have read other stories that Drew set within this world, which means that I have encountered Otello's and Elspeth's names before as well as hints at their story. However, I hadn't read their story before now.
And I absolutely loved it. From the comedic mishaps to the genuine fears that they face to the painful decisions they have to make, this story unfolds beautifully. I definitely don't regret picking it up. Though I wish I would have read it sooner.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an amazing enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance! Absolutely loved it!! It is exciting and magical, full of action and adventure.. Awesome characters!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2026
I reviewed these three books separately. You can find those reviews here:
Betrayal & Banditry: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Treason & Thievery:https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Romance & Robbery: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Betrayal & Banditry: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Treason & Thievery:https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Romance & Robbery: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews