Splendor of Dawn

Jewel of Life #1

by Ryan D. Gebhart

What was once reality now fills the minds of Eklean’s children as no more than fables. Despite his pointy ears, not even Devlyn believes that he is an elf; they have all passed from living memory into stories. At least, that’s what he’s been told his entire life, growing up as a ward of the abbey school of Cor’lera. One day, a silver-eyed woman with pointy ears tells him something very different and invites him beyond the village limits to discover the truth about his allegedly criminal family. Swept into a world of magic that includes dragons and a phoenix, Devlyn’s eyes open to a world he believed was a myth when shadows of the past reveal themselves once again. 

 

Genres: Fantasy

355 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 26, 2015

About the author

Ryan D Gebhart first started writing the Jewel of Life series in 2012 in Philadelphia, PA, shortly after concluding his undergraduate studies in philosophy. This unexpected passion evolved over the years and has remained a constant companion through his career changes, from a Capuchin Friar, to a Claims Processor, and finally in his current endeavor as an Architectural Graduate Student in Washington, DC. Ryan D Gebhart is originally from Wilmington, DE.

Reviews

[Renata Preciado · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5

This book took me a little longer than expected because it was a little slow at the beginning, and it probably was because of the lack of action in the first pages, but it got better when Devlyn arrived at the School.

I was so surprised with the world-building because it is amazing, but sometimes I got lost with all the new words, characters, and the magic system, but as the story progresses, you realize how it all makes sense and how the magic system works.

I can't wait to read the second book to know how Devlyn's story is going to continue.

Thanks to book tasters and Ryan D Gebhart.

[Mia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this book was probably one of the best books I’ve ever read. I definitely recommend reading this.

[Leila Boland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book!!! A must read, look forward to reading more from this author

[Manar Rajab · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the first installment of the Jewel of Life series we follow Devlyn as he discovers that everything he thought he knew about himself and his family history is merely a lie after meeting with a strange woman who convinces him to go on a journey that'll change his whole life.

The book was a bit slow at the beginning because of all the new names and the land's history. It was very rich in details and I didn't mind it at the start because Gebhart's writing was just too beautiful that I couldn't help but carry on reading without complaining.

However, the more I read the more action and less info I needed. Devlyn's journey took almost all the book, it wasn't boring though but I expected him to face some obstacles: the journey was simply too easy in my opinion and the action actually started in the last 40/50 pages of the book.

So overall I loved the writing and the world building so so much, but the overwhelming info and the lack of action disappointed me a little.

Still, I'm looking forward to reading the second book and see for myself how things'll go.

Final rating: 3.5 🌟

Thank you Booktasters and Ryan D Gebhart. ❤

[Kathleen Velasco · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author, Ryan Gebhart and BookTasters for providing this amazing book.

The book is about Devlyn, he’s basically part of the group of people who are shunned in their society because they are different from everyone else. He gets visited by this strange lady and he’s world gets turned upside down. He discovers things about himself that he never though possible. This book was just a rollercoaster ride of myths, mysteries and plot twists.

The world building in this book was amazing. It was quite confusing at first especially with all the unique terms and names but you get a hang of it after a while. The book was super detailed and descriptive which is amazing because it actually seems like you are actually there.There was a few times where I couldn’t quite understand what was happening and I had to reread but overall it was incredible. If it wasn’t for the fact that school just started back up and I had a TON of requirements, I would have just finished it really quickly.

I would totally recommend this book to people who love Avatar, the Last Airbender, Harry Potter or Tolkein.

[Jene · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I want to say that this book was gifted to me in return of an honest review.

I really like how in the very beginning of the book the author outs a note indicating what some words that are used in the book mean. It helps to understand the reading a bit more. It is very imaginative and reads very easy and relaxed. the book provides you with enough details of what's going on for you to be able to have a good picture painted in your mind, but doesn't go overboard so as to bog you down with too much information. For me I felt as if I was going on the journey with all of the characters that are in these pages. There is mystery, magic, and more written within the pages of this very entertaining book. If you are looking for a journey to take all while sitting in a comfortable chair sipping on some tea, pick up Splendor of Dawn and take the journey too.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the author and to Booktasters, I had the opportunity to read this book. I was pleasantly surprised!!

The author has created a universe so immense and complex that although initially it can take a little time before understanding, it well you inevitably find yourself immersed in it. It is so immersive that you will feel it is REAL!! It is really the perfect fantasy world-building!

The story is fast-paced, and it made me think in some parts about The Shannara’s Chronicle while in others about Harry Potter. But the personal touch of the author will let you forget about these resemblances almost immediately!

The story is full of mysteries, political conspiracies, and plot twists (and who doesn’t love some good plot twists?!)

I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read the next books of this new saga!!

[Penelope Pirri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really happy to be contacted by Booktasters and as soon as I read the description for this book I knew I had to read it. And it was even more amazing than I expected. The main character of the book is Devlyn who at the beginning of the story is a student at the Abbey school of Cor'lera. One day he is visited by a woman named Velaria and is urged by her to go on a journey to find what happened to his family a couple of years ago. Throughout his journey he visits interesting places, meets different types of creatures and discovers new things about himself. The story combines mystery, adventure,politics and some elements of romance in a very unique way that makes you want to read more and more.The author has done a great job with introducing his characters and build the world that the story takes place in and I can't wait to read more of this series!

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great fantasy story with elfs, dwarves, and dragons. Elaborate world building is impressive. It's a coming of age story with magic. I can't wait to read the sequel.

[Salma Afreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book of fantasy genre that has been so delicately handled by the author, Ryan D Gebhart. The story revolves around Devlyn who is an elf but he lives his life quite like other normal boys of his age. His real identity had been concealed by his uncle, Lex, head of his region, Corlera. Alex was his true friend with whom he most of his time. The story starts with Lucillian's people(the elf region), Velaria and her father, Arlyn who were on their journey to Corlera, place where Devlyn lived. The journey is described as the most tough one because the temperature there was freezing cold. When they had reached an Inn which was owned by Devlyn's uncle. They had come there to meet Devlyn only but they waited for a good moment of their meeting. Devlyn was an orphan and his life had lot of mysteries which needed to be informed to him. That young boy had been living a life of hardships quite under the rule of his uncle whom he thought to be kind to him for he saved his life from his murderer, Mother, Evelyn. But that was not 'truth' but a false assertion that was purposely done to tame Devlyn's mind and not allow him to live in truth.
Velaria was also an elf and had magical powers. She met Devlyn and his friend, Alex in Corlera and tried to first convince that she was present there to help them to know about a valid truth about Devlyn's family especially his mother, Evelyn whom he considered a murderer as said by his uncle and the villagers. Devlyn was reluctant to believe the truth. As said by the villagers, he always believed that his mother had killed his father and other members of his family but luckily he was saved and being the youngest, he had knowledge about the incident. So, he believed what they told him. His mother was there imprisoned in Lucillia.
Later, the truth was revealed to Devlyn by Arlyn, Velaria's father, through his magical powers. He shows the flashback moments of Devlyn's happy family, his special family pictures that showed how much his mother loved him and his whole family. When he is shown the reality, he is astonished that his mother, Evelyn never murdered his father as claimed by his uncle and the villagers rather she was a vulnerable person whom his shrewd uncle had put all the blame after committing the crime. Devlyn was totally awestruck but he still cannot fight with them and so he waited for the right moment. They were now in Velaria's company who took them to her region, Lucillia where they would meet Evelyn(Devlyn's mother) and know the real truth of his life where he miraculously found treasures too.

[Ellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've received this book from Booktasters and Ryan D. Gebhart in exchange for an honest review.

I'd like to preface this by admitting that I haven't been particularly interested in fantasy in books as of late, so my review should be taken with a grain of salt. That said, I was pleasantly surprised by some of the turns this book took, and found myself greatly enjoying the journey within its pages.

We follow our main character, Devlyn, as he embarks on what seems to be a standard hero's quest, incited by the appearance of strange visions and travellers, but the author injects enough heart and care into each moment that it feels like one is experiencing it anew.

The are quite a lot of new terms and names thrust upon you from the very first pages, but it's more organic than overwhelming, and helps the reader settle in quite well. The world-building and lore unfolds slowly and steadily throughout the book, as we are faced with new information and revelations right alongside Dev, who, like us, has entered an unfamiliar world that he has to learn to understand, while grappling with the lies woven into the very foundation of his convictions.

I found most of the major characters quite intriguing, and I enjoying discovering the many bonds binding them together, though I do wish they were a bit more fleshed out I suppose? However this is a minor nitpick as this book is the first in a series and thus, the setup to what seems like interesting character developments and a promising overarching plot.

The book is paced well, and while the second act of the book does drag slightly, it soon picks up once all the pieces start slotting into place in the third act. I did not expect mysteries and political intrigue when I first started this book, and by the end I was highly invested in their outcomes and effects on the characters.

Again, this might very well be due to my lack of recent dives into fantasy, but I do think this book deserves merit for being part of an oversaturated genre and still managing to invoke the sense of wonder and joy that has always defined the genre.

[Mena Marco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin with this one? I'm just loss for words, really. This book probably has all the things that I want in a fantasy book and yes, I do still enjoy the popular chosen one tropes and this one does not disappoint.

In this book, we follow a thirteen year old boy name, Devlyn who is a student (but treated more like a servant) in the abbey school. His father dead, his mother and half-brother kidnapped somewhere, her sister lost in an enchanted wood and all this happened when he was just two years of age. Did I mentioned he is an elf with distinct pointy ears and a tall height that he needs to slouch to not stand out because his town and the school hates elven community so much. (Gosh, some characters in the abbey school were quite some horrible bunch!) Well, the trajectory of his quite miserable life was about to change when a woman came to visit his town and spoke to him of his real identity and the knowledge of his ancestors and the things out there that he has yet to learn.

I always love the incorporation of elves, dwarfs, dragons and all the magical kinds and creatures so I was in a constant amazed mood when I read this book. Sure I have to admit, it took me quite a bit to familiarise myself with some of the terms and there are certain parts where all the information keep pouring in but it didn't really dampened my reading. If I ever forget some terms, I could always flipped to the Glossary section. Oh, did I mentioned how the world-building is simply so immaculate?! There's so much history and also the way you write the buildings of different capitals, I could picture the whole thing in a clarity of a movie or something. And that's when I know, it's a good book! Ok, I've rambled too much. I'd like to thank Mr Gebhart for the free arc and Booktasters for making it happened!

[Pinky N.A · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's not often I found a powerful man among powerful women—I often find it the other way around. So, it's interesting.

The writing is neat—I can see how it edited repeatedly. The characters development is interesting, somewhat emotional for me, too.

When I reached the ending, I was, "The end?! Finally?!" Not expecting and somehow a bit relieved. And, gave me feeling to scream, because, why?! The end? (It's a complicated feeling, I know).

Even though I'm not a big fan of fantasy, I found this book appealing on its own. I like it. (I can't really describe it, but I know I like this book). Great job!

My favourite character is Alex. I like how he willing to abandon the place he live to accompany Devlyn--his best friend, even though he didn't trust Valeria at first. The characters are suited very well with the story's pace.

Talking about the pace, I think it a little bit slow burn for my liking. It might be because I don't really into fantasy. But overall, the pace is alright. Regarding the pace, I suggest this book for teen and upper ages. Looking at my young siblings (8-10 years old) reaction to me reading the book, I don't think children would last long for a story this long.

I don't think I have anything I dislike from this book... Despite my effort to read among busy schedule, and how I don't really into fantasy, I like this book (I mean it!).

[Debbie Viscosi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in Ryan Gebhart’s Jewel of Life series. An young elf named Devlyn is struggling to fit in at the abbey school in Cor’lera. He feels out of place and when a mysterious silver eyed woman asks him to accompany her, he does. Devlyn will encounter a variety of magical creatures as he begins searching for family members he thought were lost long ago.

There is so much packed into this first book. We learn terms, names, locations and the history of this land that Devlyn lives in. There are wonderfully intriguing characters and beautifully described scenery. But there is darkness too. An evil ruler with stupendous power is threatening the elves. Devlyn will play a key part in this battle but as to his role, we will need to read the subsequent books in the series. This is the beginning.

Fantasy lovers will enjoy this story. It’s fun meeting new characters and learning all about them. Ryan Gebhart has a fertile imagination and has included an amazing level of detail. I look forward to the next book in the series, what amazing events will Devlyn be part of?

[shays reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book, with its action-adventure fantasy elements keeping me entertained throughout reading. Written in third person, which is well suited to the multiple perspectives and histories of various characters. This story follows the typical fantasy plot, where the protagonist has a challenge to get through in order to identify themselves and figure out their legacy in the world.
I like how the epilogue introduces you to the characters that will have the most focus. The book starts with a 13 year time jump, which I was not expecting after the events in the epilogue, but starts to make sense as the story progresses. There is also a level of mystery throughout the book, and you are trying to figure out how the epilogue and story take such a sharp turn.
Sometimes, I did find the third person POV to be a little bit confusing. I found it difficult to have to keep up with the introduction of many characters, who we saw in passing and were referenced later on in the book.
I would recommend this to cozy fantasy readers, and young adult readers who also enjoy fantasy.

[Ben Pick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Splendor of Dawn is an engaging coming of age story in a fantastic world. This is a strong first entry for a world with considerable depth. The story begins as an adventure to uncover the world's mysteries and evolves into magical school setting. Some of the important moments can fly by a little too quickly, but overall, there is plenty of emotion to drive every scene.

Ryan Gebhart writes in a way which makes the fantasy of the world come alive and make us see the world from an elf's eyes.

There are numerous parallels to the real world, including abuse, prejudice, and misinformation. This also felt like an important story about coming to terms with identity and heritage, and not being afraid to go against the desires of those around us.

The story's magic felt similar to the Wheel of Time, with male and female halves which are stronger when used together. I am curious to read how the story continues.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A huge thank you to Booktasters for connecting me with the author. I received a free e copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, all opinions are my own.

From the start of this book, I was captivated before the book even started there was an amazing map (I am personally a huge fan of books with a map) I found Devlyn, our main character to be one of my new favorite mcs, his perspective in this story is so amazing. The world felt very rich and captivating and drew me in in an instant. The story was a beautiful adventure and I cannot wait to get around to the second book. I did find the pacing in the middle of the story to be a little rocky which slowed my pace a little but nothing to dramatic. Mr. Gebhart's writing reminds me of a newer Tolkien story blended with the magic and nostalgia of Harry Potter.

[Nipun Bamania · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a really . Reading this book was a great experience. The conflict between elves and humans highlighted in this book is really good. Devlyn a young elf, whose mother Evellyn is from the elf community and father, a human. Devyln's mother is accused of his father's murder and banished from Co'rlera, a town where they lived by his uncle Lex, who hates elves, but is a wielder himself. Velaria, a lady elf comes and convinces Devyln of his mother's innocence and takes him and his friend Alex to Gneal. Enroute they come to know many things and a war ensues between humans and elves. This is just the first part. Waiting to read the further parts. An adventure filled book and a must read. There are hardly an flaws apart from the length. Could have been shorter. Overall an exciting read.

[Syd · Rating 5 out of 5]

New favorite series!

I’ve finally found a new favorite series! The Jewel of Life: Splendor of Dawn has it all - adventure, magic, politics, mystery, and romance. The author weaves a rich tapestry of geography, history, and new vocabulary to create an imaginative and wonderful new world in which the reader can happily get lost. The vivid descriptions of architecture transport the reader to awe-inspiring settings. Before you know it, it will be past your bedtime, but your investment in the fate of our heroes will propel you forward and as the mysteries of this curious world unfold, the story will grip you further. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series!!

[Molly L · Rating 5 out of 5]

One part Tolkien, one part Harry Potter, one part Avatar the Last Air Bender and 2 parts completely new world, Gebhart has created a wonderful story of adventure, magic, and discovery. Sprawling lands and a rich, deep-rooted magic fills the pages of Splendor of Dawn as this high fantasy world comes alive. Devlyn never knew his family or his origins until he meets the mysterious and regal Velaria. Under her guidance, Devlyn starts on a journey to better understand his place in the world and to learn just how important he is in it.

[naga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Booktaster and Ryan D. Gebhart for providing me a copy of this book!

Actual rating: 3.5 stars

Wow, this took quite a long time for me to finish. It's been so long since the last time I read a book so detailed and full of description. It was exciting, though. I like the world-building. Following Devlyn's journey was really fun, though unfortunately I get a bit bored in the middle of the book due to the pace—it's too slow for me. The ending made me feel warm; because it ended so nicely.

[UnicatTheApple · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book
I really love the characters and world building and though I admit I needed some time to get used to the names of characters and places, the story still really captured me and even inspired me to make some drawings I’m proud of.
I can really recommend this book to anyone who is interested in ensnaring fantasy stories with lovable characters, a well executed plot and lively dialogues that easily express emotions
It’s just amazing <3<3<3

Don’t mind me just adding it to my read list again so when I find the spare moments I can read it another time~

[Adrianne Lemke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent start to a series

Splendor of Dawn is an interesting read. I mostly enjoyed it, although there were times when the story seemed to jump from one thing to another without any kind of transition. I like Alex for his willingness to go against his parents and stand with Devlyn. The friendship between The two felt genuine. The world building was interesting, and by the end I find myself looking forward to seeing what happens next for Devlyn and his friends. Looking forward to the next installment.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this one at Balticon I never get time to read my hard copy books. I carried this one in my car so I had something to read whenever I was waiting for someone.
I must say that I really enjoyed it. It had every type of fantasy character going and some variations of the one's that we thought we knew. I liked the old world setting and had a chance to get familiar with most of it. I would definitely recommend it and read more by this author.

[s · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 out of 5 stars!

this book was such a fun read! i was captivated from the start however it took me quite long to finish it. i loved devlyn's journey and his time at the academy. most of the characters were likeable and i have to say that the writing was beautiful and thoroughly descriptive. i loved the use of languages involved. the only downside for me was that the pacing was too slow for me and i felt the world-building was a bit underdeveloped. overall, this was a great read :)

[Lina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely read fantasy because I’m very picky when it comes to that genre but god I loved this book.

Mystery, politics, and a little bit of romance. An amazing plot filled with exciting twists and interesting characters!
The worldbuilding was amazing and I felt captivated very quickly.
I can't wait to read more of this saga! The book gave me Avatar the last airbender vibes which I loved since it’s one of my favorite shows. A must read for fantasy and Avatar fans!

[J.L. Jackola · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! The story was compelling. I couldn’t help but continue reading to find out what would happen next. The characters were intriguing and continued to grow with the story. The world building was fantastic. I felt as if I were right there seeing the landscape and towns with the characters. I can’t wait to read the next one!

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Splendor of Dawn has been a very inspiring fantasy book to more of the books of its likes. the book is so cool, makes you not spend any of your free time away from it, the characters have been set in a way that makes you read it whenever you feel alone, just to make you interested.
Mr. Gebhart, kudos man 😊.

[Eli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredible. The world building and characters were so well written that I could see every scene coming to life in my mind. In the best way possible, this book reminded me of Tolkien. I cannot believe I was able to read a book this amazing thanks to BookTasters, and I look forward to reading Hidden Within.

[Benjamin Wu · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amazing Book I Definitely Recommend

I loved this story! The author did an amazing job on making the characters, and I loved how he used different terms for the supernatural beings, not just witch or warlock as I would normally see. The plot was greatly written, and I cannot wait to read the sequel.