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Bridge of Legends #1
Summernight
Tamerlan has just five days during the Summernight Festival to save his sister - or she'll be sacrificed to an ancient, long-dead dragon at the height of the Summernight Festival.
Marielle is a Scenter for the City Watch, smelling emotions and spiritual residues and tracking down crimes. When she is assigned to investigate a strange break-in during the Summernight Festival, she will stop at nothing to keep the city safe.
But if Marielle succeeds, Tamerlan will die.
And if Tamerlan succeeds, Marielle will die.
Summernight is the first book in this heart-pounding, grit-your-teeth romp through the wild Festivals of the Dragonblood Plains. If you love fantasy worlds, dragons, and the excitement of holidays turned on their heads, you'll adore Summernight.
Marielle is a Scenter for the City Watch, smelling emotions and spiritual residues and tracking down crimes. When she is assigned to investigate a strange break-in during the Summernight Festival, she will stop at nothing to keep the city safe.
But if Marielle succeeds, Tamerlan will die.
And if Tamerlan succeeds, Marielle will die.
Summernight is the first book in this heart-pounding, grit-your-teeth romp through the wild Festivals of the Dragonblood Plains. If you love fantasy worlds, dragons, and the excitement of holidays turned on their heads, you'll adore Summernight.
332 pages, Hardcover
Published July 1, 2019
244 people are currently reading
855 people want to read
About the author
Sarah K.L. Wilson
159 books1,090 followersSarah K. L. Wilson is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes fantasy stories featuring practical heroes & heroines in the most impractical circumstances. She loves writing because it is the only way to make a living and give back to the world when your primary skill is an overactive imagination and a tendency toward violent daydreams.
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 26, 2022
This book is … immature in its editing processing in regard to story telling... so I would not recommend this.
⤐ Additionally.
This book made me realise that I mourn nothing more than a book's potential going to waste. It's incredibly frustrating to see the world of a book and sit on the edge of your seat to see it all take off ... but it just. Never. Happens. It's like you can see the colour palette an artist used for a painting but you still see the painting in black and white
Let me first just remark on the fact that I loved the general idea of this book. People who can see with scents, a drug that enables the spirits of long-dead heroes to possess your body, sacrificing women to appease gods... it's pretty much a foolproof combination...
But not entirely. Reading this book I felt like I didn't have the whole picture. I had the hardest time settling into the world - probably because the world-building lacked some skill. Objectively, I was able to appreciate Sarah's idea but I did not for the life of me find a way to be happy with it. Instead, I kept skipping paragraph after paragraph until I've decided to just read the last chapters.
⤐ What’s happening.
They say all is fair in love and war and I suppose the author of this book took that saying a bit too seriously? Anyways, this is the wild story of a dude who tries to safe his sister via smoking some weed that channels the super powers of some violent warrior heroes. Lot's of killing of innocents ensues.
spoiler alert : It sounds a lot more exciting than it actually is.
_____________________
2 STARS. Definitely a disappointment. It might not even have been worth finishing for a variety of reasons.
September 11, 2019
* This is one of the #SPFBO entries which I read as a Judge this year *
This one is pitched as a YA story with magic and mayhem, and that's exactly the sort of YA I enjoy reading. Personally I tend to read mostly adult fantasy, but I like YA reads to bring a bit of fun and adventure to my reading, and this story did just that.
We follow a young man, an Alchemist's Apprentice, who is called Tamerlan. He was sold from a rich family to pay off the debts of his father, and he is now stuck in a new city, basically a slave. He works in the Alchemist Guild and he serves the Alchemists with their tasks and errands. He's not a big fan of his life, but he also doesn't miss much from home after the tough betrayal his family put him through. The one thing he really misses is his sister.
The city this story is based in has a variety of religions and groups of people, but one of the most well-known beliefs/suspicions is that on Summernight they must sacrifice a young girl to keep the Dragon that the city is built upon appeased. This butchery is seen as a holy necessity and most people look upon Lady Sacrifice and the other Legends with awe. However, Tamerlan is not a big believer in these myths, and until this year he has not needed to worry about it all.
Our other main character is Marielle, a Scenter who can scent magic and emotions but not see colour. Her life is based around the Watch and upholding the Law, and she is drawn into Tamerlan's story when he becomes a culprit in a plot to free Lady Sacrifice. Her battle with what is Law and what is Right becomes a dominant part of her story and she struggles to know what path to choose.
The stories of the two main characters weave together well and the plot is fast throughout. However, I felt as though I would have liked a bit more time to really find out who the characters are at their core and what they fight for or against. I think there were some moments where I caught glimpses of the characters, but I wanted more from their adventure and wanted to know them more intimately than the story allowed.
I do think in general this was one of the better edited of the stories I have read for this year's SPFBO and I think anyone who enjoys books like Sarah J Maas and Leigh Bardugo would enjoy this series. Definitely a promising start to the series 3*s overall from me. 6/10
This one is pitched as a YA story with magic and mayhem, and that's exactly the sort of YA I enjoy reading. Personally I tend to read mostly adult fantasy, but I like YA reads to bring a bit of fun and adventure to my reading, and this story did just that.
We follow a young man, an Alchemist's Apprentice, who is called Tamerlan. He was sold from a rich family to pay off the debts of his father, and he is now stuck in a new city, basically a slave. He works in the Alchemist Guild and he serves the Alchemists with their tasks and errands. He's not a big fan of his life, but he also doesn't miss much from home after the tough betrayal his family put him through. The one thing he really misses is his sister.
The city this story is based in has a variety of religions and groups of people, but one of the most well-known beliefs/suspicions is that on Summernight they must sacrifice a young girl to keep the Dragon that the city is built upon appeased. This butchery is seen as a holy necessity and most people look upon Lady Sacrifice and the other Legends with awe. However, Tamerlan is not a big believer in these myths, and until this year he has not needed to worry about it all.
Our other main character is Marielle, a Scenter who can scent magic and emotions but not see colour. Her life is based around the Watch and upholding the Law, and she is drawn into Tamerlan's story when he becomes a culprit in a plot to free Lady Sacrifice. Her battle with what is Law and what is Right becomes a dominant part of her story and she struggles to know what path to choose.
The stories of the two main characters weave together well and the plot is fast throughout. However, I felt as though I would have liked a bit more time to really find out who the characters are at their core and what they fight for or against. I think there were some moments where I caught glimpses of the characters, but I wanted more from their adventure and wanted to know them more intimately than the story allowed.
I do think in general this was one of the better edited of the stories I have read for this year's SPFBO and I think anyone who enjoys books like Sarah J Maas and Leigh Bardugo would enjoy this series. Definitely a promising start to the series 3*s overall from me. 6/10
June 7, 2020
This book was beautifully written and swiftly paced from the very first line. I'd heard Sarah K L Wilson mentioned as one of the giants of indie publishing, and the first chapter of this book showed why.
As the story races along, we're plunged into a gorgeously written, beautifully realised and vivid fantasy world in which a young apprentice attempts to rescue his doomed sister with the help of a succession of body-snatching gods, while a young member of the City Watch tracks him down in the hope that she won't be substituted for the sacrifice if he manages to do it. There were some things I found a little less successful in this book - the characters were instantly sympathetic but one didn't feel they had much existence beyond the pages of the book, the seductively antagonistic Lord Mythos always felt a bit more like a construct than a real person, and the abrupt ending makes it clear that this book is more an instalment of a larger story than a standalone within a series.
However, those are pretty minor complaints compared to what I loved about the story. Although I would have been happy to trade some of the lickety-split plotting for a deeper investigation of the characters, I adored the solid themes in this book. I loved the discussion of man's law versus divine law (and what the heck kind of author slyly inserts that famous Julian of Norwich quote into a book like this? BOSS MOVE, WILSON) and the agonising choices that are presented to the characters - the kind of choices that come with awful, inescapable consequences.
I'm very much looking forward to reading the rest of this series over the coming weeks!
As the story races along, we're plunged into a gorgeously written, beautifully realised and vivid fantasy world in which a young apprentice attempts to rescue his doomed sister with the help of a succession of body-snatching gods, while a young member of the City Watch tracks him down in the hope that she won't be substituted for the sacrifice if he manages to do it. There were some things I found a little less successful in this book - the characters were instantly sympathetic but one didn't feel they had much existence beyond the pages of the book, the seductively antagonistic Lord Mythos always felt a bit more like a construct than a real person, and the abrupt ending makes it clear that this book is more an instalment of a larger story than a standalone within a series.
However, those are pretty minor complaints compared to what I loved about the story. Although I would have been happy to trade some of the lickety-split plotting for a deeper investigation of the characters, I adored the solid themes in this book. I loved the discussion of man's law versus divine law (and what the heck kind of author slyly inserts that famous Julian of Norwich quote into a book like this? BOSS MOVE, WILSON) and the agonising choices that are presented to the characters - the kind of choices that come with awful, inescapable consequences.
I'm very much looking forward to reading the rest of this series over the coming weeks!
February 15, 2020
4,25 stars - English Ebook 🌹🌹🌹
January 31, 2023
4.5 Stars!!! Review to come after I read the rest of the books in the series! =D
August 19, 2019
One of the best ways to inject tension into a story is to write two likeable characters who find themselves on opposite sides of a conflict, or—maybe even better—find themselves inadvertently working against one another. Who do you root for when one protagonist succeeding means the other must fail? Sarah K.L. Wilson does this to great effect in Summernight the first novel in her Bridge of Legends series.
This central tension, the two protagonists inadvertently working at cross purposes, is wonderfully executed. The main reason it works so well, however, is that both of the main characters are likeable and well crafted. Marielle and Tamerlan both feel real, both have their own fears and hopes that motivate them, and neither is forced to conform to the other’s plot. Tamerlan has an interesting backstory that strongly influences his character, and this is equally true for Marielle. Both also have satisfying arcs throughout the novel that leaves them in a significantly different place than when the novel began. In addition to the characters, the world building was a lot of fun in this one. Perhaps the best part of that world building was the magic system. There are at least two types of magic, but the type we’re given the most exposure to is the Scenters. Scenters can perceive emotion as scents and colors associated with those scents—they are otherwise colorblind. Wilson excels at describing emotion as colored scents. There are moments when you can almost smell the emotion yourself, as odd as that sounds. This definitely makes for some interesting character moments for Marielle, as she is a Scenter employed by the city watch. We also see a world that’s absolutely full of the fantastic, and I found it very interesting to watch as Marielle tries to find explanations outside of magic for things that happen throughout the plot. The novel is well paced and the final third veritably sprints to the pulse-pounding conclusion. The endgame is big and epic and highly satisfying.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this one, there were a couple elements that didn’t work for me. The first of those is that there is a section of Marielle’s plotline where it feels like she’s constantly thinking romantic thoughts or otherwise losing sight of her main goals. Happily, this doesn’t last for an overly long part of the novel, but I felt like it cheapened her character. It felt like, as the female lead, it was sort of just that she had to think these thoughts because, female lead in a YA novel. There were other moments when the prose felt a little clunky or used some odd turns of phrase. These moments were not often, but were noticeable enough. I also felt like there were one or two events that felt perhaps a little too convenient to the plot.
All in all, Summernight is a fun and fast young adult read that I’m happy to recommend to those who enjoy unique worldbuilding elements (cities built on the backs of sleeping dragons!) and tense action sequences. I look forward to discovering more about this world and these characters in the sequel.
7.5/10
3.75/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
This central tension, the two protagonists inadvertently working at cross purposes, is wonderfully executed. The main reason it works so well, however, is that both of the main characters are likeable and well crafted. Marielle and Tamerlan both feel real, both have their own fears and hopes that motivate them, and neither is forced to conform to the other’s plot. Tamerlan has an interesting backstory that strongly influences his character, and this is equally true for Marielle. Both also have satisfying arcs throughout the novel that leaves them in a significantly different place than when the novel began. In addition to the characters, the world building was a lot of fun in this one. Perhaps the best part of that world building was the magic system. There are at least two types of magic, but the type we’re given the most exposure to is the Scenters. Scenters can perceive emotion as scents and colors associated with those scents—they are otherwise colorblind. Wilson excels at describing emotion as colored scents. There are moments when you can almost smell the emotion yourself, as odd as that sounds. This definitely makes for some interesting character moments for Marielle, as she is a Scenter employed by the city watch. We also see a world that’s absolutely full of the fantastic, and I found it very interesting to watch as Marielle tries to find explanations outside of magic for things that happen throughout the plot. The novel is well paced and the final third veritably sprints to the pulse-pounding conclusion. The endgame is big and epic and highly satisfying.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this one, there were a couple elements that didn’t work for me. The first of those is that there is a section of Marielle’s plotline where it feels like she’s constantly thinking romantic thoughts or otherwise losing sight of her main goals. Happily, this doesn’t last for an overly long part of the novel, but I felt like it cheapened her character. It felt like, as the female lead, it was sort of just that she had to think these thoughts because, female lead in a YA novel. There were other moments when the prose felt a little clunky or used some odd turns of phrase. These moments were not often, but were noticeable enough. I also felt like there were one or two events that felt perhaps a little too convenient to the plot.
All in all, Summernight is a fun and fast young adult read that I’m happy to recommend to those who enjoy unique worldbuilding elements (cities built on the backs of sleeping dragons!) and tense action sequences. I look forward to discovering more about this world and these characters in the sequel.
7.5/10
3.75/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
Want to read
September 13, 2022If you want to binge this entire series (4 books!) for $0.99, it's now on sale on Amazon (yeah, for all four books together). > https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08...
Already nabbed up my kindle boxed set. ^_^ I've not read this yet but Wilson's other series are MASTERPIECESSSS. :D
Already nabbed up my kindle boxed set. ^_^ I've not read this yet but Wilson's other series are MASTERPIECESSSS. :D
October 12, 2021
This was definitely a book I wanted to read because of the cover. I had three months for free for Kindle Unlimited and I found this gem. Honestly, this book surprised me! I wasn’t expecting to like it as much as I did. I only had one minor complaint and that doesn’t happen often.
The book is on the shorter side. At under 300 pages its amazing how much was packed into it. At first, I wasn’t really impressed with the characters but as the plot progresses we really get to see who they truly are. There is a better understanding for them and I loved the raw feelings that we get from the male character, Tamerlan.
Tamerlan was a great character. He was charismatic, kind, and wanted to save his sister even if that meant breaking the law. He definitely walked a very fine line between right and wrong at times. Sometimes, it would tip over into the wrong. I liked it!
As for Marielle, she was such a unique character when it came to her ability! She is a scenter which basically means everyone has a specific scent and magic also has one. It was cool to see what everyone would smell like. She also shared a few characteristics with Tamerlan. She was kind and even though she is supposed to uphold it, lines can be blurred at times.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when it came to the plot but I can say that it didn’t disappoint. There were some interesting plot twists and everything was quite fast paced. There was also this grimoire that housed these legends that would posses Tamerlin. It was a really cool concept. It was hard to set this book down. Good thing it wasn’t long!
Overall, I enjoyed this one and I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book!
The book is on the shorter side. At under 300 pages its amazing how much was packed into it. At first, I wasn’t really impressed with the characters but as the plot progresses we really get to see who they truly are. There is a better understanding for them and I loved the raw feelings that we get from the male character, Tamerlan.
Tamerlan was a great character. He was charismatic, kind, and wanted to save his sister even if that meant breaking the law. He definitely walked a very fine line between right and wrong at times. Sometimes, it would tip over into the wrong. I liked it!
As for Marielle, she was such a unique character when it came to her ability! She is a scenter which basically means everyone has a specific scent and magic also has one. It was cool to see what everyone would smell like. She also shared a few characteristics with Tamerlan. She was kind and even though she is supposed to uphold it, lines can be blurred at times.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when it came to the plot but I can say that it didn’t disappoint. There were some interesting plot twists and everything was quite fast paced. There was also this grimoire that housed these legends that would posses Tamerlin. It was a really cool concept. It was hard to set this book down. Good thing it wasn’t long!
Overall, I enjoyed this one and I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book!
July 7, 2019
Summernight review
I was very excited to read this first book in a new series. I really enjoyed watching the development of the MC's Tamerlan and Marielle. The story was different from what I've before by the author. I liked the concept of how magic works for the cities. Although some of the descriptions of the scenting ability were a bit overwhelming for me at times, but with that being said it was nothing I've ever experienced in another story. I can't wait to see what happens next for our hero Tamerlan and our heroine Marielle. I would recommend this book
I was very excited to read this first book in a new series. I really enjoyed watching the development of the MC's Tamerlan and Marielle. The story was different from what I've before by the author. I liked the concept of how magic works for the cities. Although some of the descriptions of the scenting ability were a bit overwhelming for me at times, but with that being said it was nothing I've ever experienced in another story. I can't wait to see what happens next for our hero Tamerlan and our heroine Marielle. I would recommend this book
July 1, 2019
Squee! Ok, I know that’s not very mature, but I do think it’s the right reaction to having a truly favorite author come out with a new series. The author here is Sarah K. L. Wilson, the imaginative mind behind several masterpiece series (which I urge you to discover if you have not yet dine so). The new series is Bridge of Legends, the lead off book 1 of which is Summernight. That book is precisely the “Tale of Fantasy and Magic” promised by its cover page. Dragons, legends returning, magic, adventure, crazy twists, excitement, a great cast of characters from Tamerlan and Marielle on down, all wrapped up in a superbly plotted and written tale. This book really has it all, and it’s all pretty darn wonderful. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
June 19, 2020
I finished this book feeling conflicted, but I feel like I should. Its very good, but dark. And not in a way that makes it easy for you to ignore. because the characters care so you HAVE to care. But I feel like that's what a good dark book should be like. It should make you care about life lost and mourn for it, not get entertainment out of it. Of course, I have found that I'm a bit more sensitive to death in fiction since my mom passed. Thats just a part of this book, though. Sarah always boasts incredible, complex characters (these more traditionally likable than many in her past books) and gorgeous world building that fills every inch of the prose. I am very eager to finish this series and see where it goes.
June 12, 2024
DNF @ 27%
I got into bed to read and was like… who are these characters? What’s going on? I simply don’t care
*queue “Another One Bites the Dust”*
I got into bed to read and was like… who are these characters? What’s going on? I simply don’t care
*queue “Another One Bites the Dust”*
August 13, 2020
This is one of those young adult tales that just didn't quite hit the mark for me. It's got plenty of inspired ideas and a good writing style, but something about the execution left me a little disappointed.
We follow two characters: Tamerlan the apprentice who discovers his beloved sister is slated to be a ritual sacrifice on the upcoming Summernight celebrations, and Marielle of the city guard whose special ability allows her to scent things as colours, be they magic, people or emotions. Tamerlan sets out on a reckless course to rescue his sister from the tower at the centre of the city, causing chaos when he fails. In desperation he's drawn to trying a mysterious alchemical spell he discovered, one that can open "the Bridge of Legends" and deliver him (what he hopes) the power he needs to succeed. Marielle is on the case to find him, tasked by the city's ruler to prevent the sacrifice being disrupted at all costs.
Now really, the writing style is wonderful. It's easy, accessible stuff, not dumbed down like so many YA novels feel. Then there's the originality; a city rumoured to have been built upon the back of a dragon, a myriad of religions and cults, the Legends mythology, not to mention Marielle's magical synaesthesia. In fact, Marielle's past is hinted at beautifully, with the skill that makes you want to know more. There's much to love in the concept department.
What bothered me were the characters themselves. Despite being in their twenties, they did irrational things that in a way that made me feel they should have been at least 4 years younger. Tamerlan's lack of a plan or any skills needed to break in to the most heavily guarded fortress? His luck at finding a mysterious recipe that he just decides to try, somehow knowing it'll help him? Marielle was guilty of one of my personal YA bugbears: Insta-love sniffing. Yes, she has a better reason than most to be constantly repeating the scent of the man she's obviously suddenly in love with, but why is she acting like a giddy 14 year old when she sees him even after she's been told he could be dangerous? I got so down that this strong, determined character was constantly sighing over her honey-toned attraction. I never felt like I really knew the characters very well beyond their repeated obsessions (rescue/upholding the law respectively). Side characters were a little sparse on personality and motive; some seemed used as bit-part players to deliver the odd deus ex machina (sorry Jhinn).
The story is interesting, although I found the pacing a little stop-start. The world is full of amazing little details but they don't come together quite early enough . There are a few of those "you already know this but I'll tell you anyway" conversations to give out information at the start.
My big concern was that while this book seemed very much a YA, around the 75% mark it took a very gruesome turn. The bloody, creative violence actually shocked me after such a "safe" read. That may have affected my feelings towards the rest of the book a lot more than anything else. I just couldn't reconcile the serious YA adventure tone with the semi-comedic characters of the "nice" Legends and the sudden shift into darkness.
As amazing as the ideas are, I don't think this is the series for me.
We follow two characters: Tamerlan the apprentice who discovers his beloved sister is slated to be a ritual sacrifice on the upcoming Summernight celebrations, and Marielle of the city guard whose special ability allows her to scent things as colours, be they magic, people or emotions. Tamerlan sets out on a reckless course to rescue his sister from the tower at the centre of the city, causing chaos when he fails. In desperation he's drawn to trying a mysterious alchemical spell he discovered, one that can open "the Bridge of Legends" and deliver him (what he hopes) the power he needs to succeed. Marielle is on the case to find him, tasked by the city's ruler to prevent the sacrifice being disrupted at all costs.
Now really, the writing style is wonderful. It's easy, accessible stuff, not dumbed down like so many YA novels feel. Then there's the originality; a city rumoured to have been built upon the back of a dragon, a myriad of religions and cults, the Legends mythology, not to mention Marielle's magical synaesthesia. In fact, Marielle's past is hinted at beautifully, with the skill that makes you want to know more. There's much to love in the concept department.
What bothered me were the characters themselves. Despite being in their twenties, they did irrational things that in a way that made me feel they should have been at least 4 years younger. Tamerlan's lack of a plan or any skills needed to break in to the most heavily guarded fortress? His luck at finding a mysterious recipe that he just decides to try, somehow knowing it'll help him? Marielle was guilty of one of my personal YA bugbears: Insta-love sniffing. Yes, she has a better reason than most to be constantly repeating the scent of the man she's obviously suddenly in love with, but why is she acting like a giddy 14 year old when she sees him even after she's been told he could be dangerous? I got so down that this strong, determined character was constantly sighing over her honey-toned attraction. I never felt like I really knew the characters very well beyond their repeated obsessions (rescue/upholding the law respectively). Side characters were a little sparse on personality and motive; some seemed used as bit-part players to deliver the odd deus ex machina (sorry Jhinn).
The story is interesting, although I found the pacing a little stop-start. The world is full of amazing little details but they don't come together quite early enough . There are a few of those "you already know this but I'll tell you anyway" conversations to give out information at the start.
My big concern was that while this book seemed very much a YA, around the 75% mark it took a very gruesome turn. The bloody, creative violence actually shocked me after such a "safe" read. That may have affected my feelings towards the rest of the book a lot more than anything else. I just couldn't reconcile the serious YA adventure tone with the semi-comedic characters of the "nice" Legends and the sudden shift into darkness.
As amazing as the ideas are, I don't think this is the series for me.
February 19, 2020
I always hate to leave unfavorable comments on any book I read or listen to. This story seemed to have potential to be pretty interesting. I can’t quite put my finger on if it was the narrator or the story, but overall, it just fell flat for me. I never developed any interest in any of the characters, they had no real personality to them. The premise isn’t a new one, really. Small village sacrificing someone to a protector figure to maintain peace in the village, in this case a dormant dragon, and someone who doesn’t want the chosen sacrifice to be killed. That said, I’ve enjoyed other stories with this premise immensely. I also found the idea of the village watch being staffed by people who could smell emotions and intentions very intriguing. Unfortunately, it just never really grabbed me as a solid concept. Even as the action ramped up, it just never held that level of intensity that it should have. That, I can say, was likely due to the narration, which overall fell flat. Not a lot of emotional variance, and the distinction between characters was virtually nonexistent. Overall, just a disappointing outcome.
I received this audiobook free in exchange for my fair and honest review.
I received this audiobook free in exchange for my fair and honest review.
February 26, 2021
3.5/5 stars
This book has much to commend. The magic system is quite unique and the writing fast-paced. Summernight reads as dark YA, and is sure to please fans in the YA genre who don't mind blood, gore, and tough themes.
Tamerlan has just five days to save his sister from death. Every Summernight, at the end of a five day festival where party-goers dress as the infamous Legends, a Lady Sacrifice is killed to appease the dragon their city rests upon. Tamerlan catches a glimpse of this years' sacrifice, and he sees his sister, Amaryllis, being carted off as the sacrifice.
Merielle is a Scenter, a part of the Watch who are tasked with upholding the law and peace in the city. She can scent emotions and intent, but cannot see in color. Instead, she smells in color. A chance encounter with Tamerlan leaves her disoriented, instantly attracted to him through his scent.
The story takes place over just five days, and therefore I found I wasn't connecting with the characters quite like I would have wanted to. This did detract somewhat from my overall enjoyment of the book, but the magic system made up for it.
Tamerlan comes across a secret page from a book detailing how to access the Bridge of Legends. Essentially, a concoction of herbs is mixed together and smoked, opening a portal to the Legends who can then take over his body. He needs their help - and their set of skills - to try to rescue his sister. But he can't control which Legend overtakes him. First is Lila Cherrylocks, master thief, who takes him on a joyride through the city to steal and generally show off her skills. But she disappears before she can be much help to him. The next Legend is Byron Bronzebow, whose sense of justice at first seems perfect for rescuing his sister. But this Legend is distracted by injustice everywhere, and soon he, too, disappears before he is any real help. The next Legend to overtake him is Maid Chaos, and this is where the magic, and story, takes a very dark turn. Tamerlan goes through a killing rampage in the city, his (or, more accurately, the Maid's) only intent to create as much havoc as possible. Tamerlan is heartbroken over his actions, and this means he only Summernight left to rescue Amaryllis.
Merielle is tracking Tamerlan through it all, and catches him on the night of Bronzebow, knowing he was the one who stole throughout the night he was Cherrylocks. He pleads with her to let him go, so he can rescue his sister. Merielle is torn, because she has a strong sense of the law, but also is exceedingly attracted to Tamerlan and his plea. She lets him go, and then he goes on the killing rampage as Maid Chaos. Merielle can Scent something else is going on underneath the surface, for she can smell the magic permeating what Tam is doing. She also knows that she herself also fits the bill to be the Lady Sacrifice. She is, after all, also Dragonblooded, part of the race of people who meet the criteria to satisfy the dragon and keep him slumbering.
Thus we come to the Summernight. Let's just say, it is a bit predictable what happens, but was also quite satisfying. We see a slumbering dragon awake and tear the city apart. Tam and Merielle, along with their friend Jhinn, barely make it out alive. And then the story ends.
Generally, I quite enjoyed this book. I've been enjoying a bit of dark YA recently. The writing is crisp, and save for a few grammatical errors, is easy to read. There were a few sticking points for me, the first being character development. But as seeing this is a series, this is most likely rectified as the story progresses. I also was a bit confused by the ending. Amaryllis does not, in fact, end up being the Sacrifice, and this isn't explained at all. How was Tamerlan so wrong? He saw his sister. And then, it wasn't her.
I really enjoyed the magic, which was very unique. And the story was fast-paced, lending for a quick read. 3.5/5 stars for me. I'll be delving into the rest of the series, more than likely.
This review originally published on Booknest.eu
This book has much to commend. The magic system is quite unique and the writing fast-paced. Summernight reads as dark YA, and is sure to please fans in the YA genre who don't mind blood, gore, and tough themes.
Tamerlan has just five days to save his sister from death. Every Summernight, at the end of a five day festival where party-goers dress as the infamous Legends, a Lady Sacrifice is killed to appease the dragon their city rests upon. Tamerlan catches a glimpse of this years' sacrifice, and he sees his sister, Amaryllis, being carted off as the sacrifice.
Merielle is a Scenter, a part of the Watch who are tasked with upholding the law and peace in the city. She can scent emotions and intent, but cannot see in color. Instead, she smells in color. A chance encounter with Tamerlan leaves her disoriented, instantly attracted to him through his scent.
The story takes place over just five days, and therefore I found I wasn't connecting with the characters quite like I would have wanted to. This did detract somewhat from my overall enjoyment of the book, but the magic system made up for it.
Tamerlan comes across a secret page from a book detailing how to access the Bridge of Legends. Essentially, a concoction of herbs is mixed together and smoked, opening a portal to the Legends who can then take over his body. He needs their help - and their set of skills - to try to rescue his sister. But he can't control which Legend overtakes him. First is Lila Cherrylocks, master thief, who takes him on a joyride through the city to steal and generally show off her skills. But she disappears before she can be much help to him. The next Legend is Byron Bronzebow, whose sense of justice at first seems perfect for rescuing his sister. But this Legend is distracted by injustice everywhere, and soon he, too, disappears before he is any real help. The next Legend to overtake him is Maid Chaos, and this is where the magic, and story, takes a very dark turn. Tamerlan goes through a killing rampage in the city, his (or, more accurately, the Maid's) only intent to create as much havoc as possible. Tamerlan is heartbroken over his actions, and this means he only Summernight left to rescue Amaryllis.
Merielle is tracking Tamerlan through it all, and catches him on the night of Bronzebow, knowing he was the one who stole throughout the night he was Cherrylocks. He pleads with her to let him go, so he can rescue his sister. Merielle is torn, because she has a strong sense of the law, but also is exceedingly attracted to Tamerlan and his plea. She lets him go, and then he goes on the killing rampage as Maid Chaos. Merielle can Scent something else is going on underneath the surface, for she can smell the magic permeating what Tam is doing. She also knows that she herself also fits the bill to be the Lady Sacrifice. She is, after all, also Dragonblooded, part of the race of people who meet the criteria to satisfy the dragon and keep him slumbering.
Thus we come to the Summernight. Let's just say, it is a bit predictable what happens, but was also quite satisfying. We see a slumbering dragon awake and tear the city apart. Tam and Merielle, along with their friend Jhinn, barely make it out alive. And then the story ends.
Generally, I quite enjoyed this book. I've been enjoying a bit of dark YA recently. The writing is crisp, and save for a few grammatical errors, is easy to read. There were a few sticking points for me, the first being character development. But as seeing this is a series, this is most likely rectified as the story progresses. I also was a bit confused by the ending. Amaryllis does not, in fact, end up being the Sacrifice, and this isn't explained at all. How was Tamerlan so wrong? He saw his sister. And then, it wasn't her.
I really enjoyed the magic, which was very unique. And the story was fast-paced, lending for a quick read. 3.5/5 stars for me. I'll be delving into the rest of the series, more than likely.
This review originally published on Booknest.eu
January 16, 2021
This is the first book in what I envisage to become an amazing fantasy magical series full of heroes from legend and dragons, alchemists and so much more. In this first book we get to meet Tamerlan, a young kind hearted and gentle alchemist apprentice, who looked out for his friends. He had been sold off to the guild by his family of landholders as he was one of nine siblings, the youngest being his beloved sister Amarylis who during the procession of the summernight five day festival, he saw cooped up in her carriage on her way to being offered up as that year's sacrifice to the legendary dragon. It was said that the town kept the dragon on who the city was built in thrall by the spilling of a young virgin's blood and this year it seems his father had sold off his sister. Tamerlan though not a warrior decided he had five days in which to free her from the sunset tower. He used a magical recipe to call forth the help of the heroes from legend over the bridge of legends but when any of these appeared they took over his body and wrecked havoc in the city causing many deaths which obviously were attributed to him. Marielle was a scenter working with the watch, and she believed in the law and saw everything in black and white, right or wrong with no in between. Now she was on to Tamerlan and she vowed to capture him, however the clock was ticking and nothing turned out to be the way they thought they were. I found this first book in this captivating series to be wondrous and the characters extremely charismatic and the ambience of the city to be brought to life through the amazing descriptions of the many different areas. I would love to go on reading further into this series which has completely drawn me into the story.
May 5, 2021
Suppose you were in a dire situation, life or death to someone you love, and you came across a magic spell that might cause you to be possessed by the spirit of Robin Hood. Or King Arthur. Or Kali the destroyer, bent on mass murder. You don't control which. (not exactly those beings, but something like). Would you use it? Should you?
A richly sensory Venice-like city parties while violence brews around our two principals - the gentle, geeky Tamerlan, messing with dodgy magic to try to save his sister's life, and the serious Scenter Marielle (sort of like a female Corporal Carrot with a fascinating psychic synaesthesia). Fast paced, gripping and surprisingly violent.
Pet peeve : books that use psychic powers as a shortcut to instant falling in love. Hmmm... Might try the next one sometime, but not yet.
A richly sensory Venice-like city parties while violence brews around our two principals - the gentle, geeky Tamerlan, messing with dodgy magic to try to save his sister's life, and the serious Scenter Marielle (sort of like a female Corporal Carrot with a fascinating psychic synaesthesia). Fast paced, gripping and surprisingly violent.
Pet peeve : books that use psychic powers as a shortcut to instant falling in love. Hmmm... Might try the next one sometime, but not yet.
August 24, 2020
This was soooo good! Not only did I like the plot and characters, but the setting was what gripped me most. The whole festival would be something I would love to see from up close! I cannot wait to read the next book, I am a fan!
December 13, 2019
Summernight by Sarah K.L. Wilson is the first book in her new series - Bridge of Legends. In this book prepare to be swept away to a world where Legends once walked the world. Some brought destruction while others brought mischief and others peace. They are all gone now, but the traditions remain to protect the world because tradition says that the city is built on top of the body of a dragon. So every year on Summernight a sacrifice must be made to keep it placated, the magic strong, and the land at peace. The author gives us two characters on opposite ends - Tamerlan - a young man intent on saving his sister from being the sacrifice, and Marielle - a Scenter who works for the Watch to keep order in the city. Marielle is tasked with keeping the law, but where is her path ultimately going to lead in this chase that is soon to begin?
Summernight is an engaging YA fantasy novel that whirls you away to a unique world. Tamerlan belonged to a rich family, but being one of nine children made him disposable, so he was sold as an apprentice. When he discovers that his sister is to be the sacrifice this year, his goal is to save her. The author focuses mostly on his story and his part in what is to come. Through an unexpected discovery, Tamerlan embarks on a dangerous quest that threatens the city if he succeeds. But he's determined to save his sister because he can't see a world without her being in it. He knows that he's risking his life, but he won't let that deter him. Tamerlan is a good character, but I won't lie...he annoys me when he daydreams so much. I appreciate that he knows fact about himself, that his daydreaming is a problem, but he never seems to try to get a stronger hold on himself to keep it from being a problem for him. I wanted him to work toward doing better.
Marielle on the other hand, a member of the city Watch, she's a unique character in and of herself. As a Scenter, the author has it to where she can't see colors. While that is missing in her life, she's able to smell essentially in color. She's able to differentiate scents all around her. It can be overpowering, so she has to wear scarves to protect herself from being overwhelmed. I enjoy her as a character overall, but she's not perfect. I have some issues with her attitude at times. I didn't 100% like it when she basically seems "infallible" when she catches a scent. I wanted her to lose the scent or it to get mixed up with another and for her to get confused. There are a couple of moments of where she comes off a bit naive as well. At one point she wants to feel a sense of betrayal, but I wanted to remind her...you were warned.
This story ends in a lot of chaos and drama. I get swept away in it all and it's only when another character makes a certain statement that brings the truth crashing down on me...Tamerlan potentially failed at his objective ultimately. The author leaves readers with a lot of questions and a heightened sense of curiosity as to what is going to happen next. My jaw literally dropped reading this book close to the end. I'm eager to learn what happens next and see if the author takes me back to the city to learn what has befallen those that remain.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. Is this book perfect? No. But it is a really good book that grabbed me and had me page-turning to learn what was going to happen next. I'm eager to read the next book in this series. If you enjoy books by this author then I highly recommend that you pick this book up and read it.
Summernight is an engaging YA fantasy novel that whirls you away to a unique world. Tamerlan belonged to a rich family, but being one of nine children made him disposable, so he was sold as an apprentice. When he discovers that his sister is to be the sacrifice this year, his goal is to save her. The author focuses mostly on his story and his part in what is to come. Through an unexpected discovery, Tamerlan embarks on a dangerous quest that threatens the city if he succeeds. But he's determined to save his sister because he can't see a world without her being in it. He knows that he's risking his life, but he won't let that deter him. Tamerlan is a good character, but I won't lie...he annoys me when he daydreams so much. I appreciate that he knows fact about himself, that his daydreaming is a problem, but he never seems to try to get a stronger hold on himself to keep it from being a problem for him. I wanted him to work toward doing better.
Marielle on the other hand, a member of the city Watch, she's a unique character in and of herself. As a Scenter, the author has it to where she can't see colors. While that is missing in her life, she's able to smell essentially in color. She's able to differentiate scents all around her. It can be overpowering, so she has to wear scarves to protect herself from being overwhelmed. I enjoy her as a character overall, but she's not perfect. I have some issues with her attitude at times. I didn't 100% like it when she basically seems "infallible" when she catches a scent. I wanted her to lose the scent or it to get mixed up with another and for her to get confused. There are a couple of moments of where she comes off a bit naive as well. At one point she wants to feel a sense of betrayal, but I wanted to remind her...you were warned.
This story ends in a lot of chaos and drama. I get swept away in it all and it's only when another character makes a certain statement that brings the truth crashing down on me...Tamerlan potentially failed at his objective ultimately. The author leaves readers with a lot of questions and a heightened sense of curiosity as to what is going to happen next. My jaw literally dropped reading this book close to the end. I'm eager to learn what happens next and see if the author takes me back to the city to learn what has befallen those that remain.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. Is this book perfect? No. But it is a really good book that grabbed me and had me page-turning to learn what was going to happen next. I'm eager to read the next book in this series. If you enjoy books by this author then I highly recommend that you pick this book up and read it.
July 9, 2020
This was the first book by Sarah KL Wilson I read having picked it up as part of a free promotion knowing nothing about the author or the book. Big mistake. Now I need to collect and read everything this lady has written.
This is the first book in a planned series of five. The characters were likeable and the world believable. The fast pace of the plot meant you learnt just enough of both the characters and the world to keep the story going leaving plenty still to discover in the following books. Indeed everything about this book reads as a beginning; the beginning of the main characters getting to know one another, the beginning of an adventure that will see a lot more trouble for the five cities and it leaves many doors open to be explored in later books.
This is the first book in a planned series of five. The characters were likeable and the world believable. The fast pace of the plot meant you learnt just enough of both the characters and the world to keep the story going leaving plenty still to discover in the following books. Indeed everything about this book reads as a beginning; the beginning of the main characters getting to know one another, the beginning of an adventure that will see a lot more trouble for the five cities and it leaves many doors open to be explored in later books.
July 1, 2019
Squee! Ok, I know that’s not very mature, but I do think it’s the right reaction to having a truly favorite author come out with a new series. The author here is Sarah K. L. Wilson, the imaginative mind behind several masterpiece series (which I urge you to discover if you have not yet dine so). The new series is Bridge of Legends, the lead off book 1 of which is Summernight. That book is precisely the “Tale of Fantasy and Magic” promised by its cover page. Dragons, legends returning, magic, adventure, crazy twists, excitement, a great cast of characters from Tamerlan and Marielle on down, all wrapped up in a superbly plotted and written tale. This book really has it all, and it’s all pretty darn wonderful. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
July 5, 2019
TITLE: All he wants to do is save his sister from human sacrifice—will he succeed?
What if......all those myths and fairy tales we heard growing up had a kernel of truth? And there really were dragons, dragon-slayers and strong warriors able to fight to protect people? That is what Tamerlan and Marielle found out when the dragon awoke!
An exciting new book from a master of epic fantasy, completely different from her other dragon series (Dragon School and Dragon Chameleon)—no human riding this dragon, that is for sure!
The storyline is well developed and the characters come to life right before your eyes—avatars of people from those long ago times and places. Young people will look up to both the Hero & heroine as they display upstanding values, that sometimes get them into trouble, as they try to help others! Great first book, and I can’t wait for the next one!
What if......all those myths and fairy tales we heard growing up had a kernel of truth? And there really were dragons, dragon-slayers and strong warriors able to fight to protect people? That is what Tamerlan and Marielle found out when the dragon awoke!
An exciting new book from a master of epic fantasy, completely different from her other dragon series (Dragon School and Dragon Chameleon)—no human riding this dragon, that is for sure!
The storyline is well developed and the characters come to life right before your eyes—avatars of people from those long ago times and places. Young people will look up to both the Hero & heroine as they display upstanding values, that sometimes get them into trouble, as they try to help others! Great first book, and I can’t wait for the next one!
February 17, 2020
What an adventure!
This is a story of epic proportions. I loved the world building, which felt fantastical, original, and yet somehow wove in elements that were really familiar to ground the reader within it. I loved the characters, especially Jhinn, he was utterly delightful. I can’t get enough of supporting characters who really drive a story forward.
I really enjoyed the originality in Marielle’s character: that she can’t see color, but can smell it in the emotions and actions that swirl about her. It’s a very artistic approach to things that makes the world that much more vivid and enthralling.
And those final chapters? Yikes! That was an incredible ride. Written so well that it felt like I was experiencing it first hand.
Totally worth the time to read (or listen to).
This is a story of epic proportions. I loved the world building, which felt fantastical, original, and yet somehow wove in elements that were really familiar to ground the reader within it. I loved the characters, especially Jhinn, he was utterly delightful. I can’t get enough of supporting characters who really drive a story forward.
I really enjoyed the originality in Marielle’s character: that she can’t see color, but can smell it in the emotions and actions that swirl about her. It’s a very artistic approach to things that makes the world that much more vivid and enthralling.
And those final chapters? Yikes! That was an incredible ride. Written so well that it felt like I was experiencing it first hand.
Totally worth the time to read (or listen to).
July 23, 2019
What if......all those myths and fairy tales we heard growing up had a kernel of truth? And there really were dragons, dragon-slayers and strong warriors able to fight to protect people? That is what Tamerlan and Marielle found out when the dragon awoke! An exciting new book from a master of epic fantasy, completely different from her other dragon series (Dragon School and Dragon Chameleon)—no human riding this dragon, that is for sure! The storyline is well developed and the characters come to life right before your eyes—avatars of people from those long ago times and places. Young people will look up to both the Hero & heroine as they display upstanding values, that sometimes get them into trouble, as they try to help others! Great first book, and I can’t wait for the next one!
June 29, 2020
Wow
This book starts off slow but I highly suggest sticking with it. It's worth it in the end! Definitely continuing with book 2.
This book starts off slow but I highly suggest sticking with it. It's worth it in the end! Definitely continuing with book 2.
June 1, 2019
This is a wonderful new setting from Sarah K. L. Wilson. The idea of having Scenters who can smell emotions is fascinating albeit the excessive descriptions of smells was sometimes overwhelming. The story is fast paced, with only 5 days for the hero to accomplish his task, no wonder. Lots of thought has gone into the development of the Legends and the religion and society of this world. The blind belief and fanatism in this book sometimes reminded me of “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson and I wonder how the other dragon cities act. Hopefully we will get more background about this in the next book, can't wait!
July 2, 2019
Wow. Another pulse racing adventure.
What would you risk everything for? In our story Tamerlan risks everything to save the life of his sister. But that’s only half the tale . On his quest he meets Marielle who can scent emotions and feelings in colors and smells. It is an intoxicating book full of excitement and intrigue and adventure, but also betrayal.
Archaic rituals seem obsolete but are they? This is a rip roaring start to what promises to be a breathtaking magical adventure. And of course dragons are involved.
You cannot fail to be captivated and become one with the emotional roller coaster that our characters experience.
So looking forward to the rest of the series.
What would you risk everything for? In our story Tamerlan risks everything to save the life of his sister. But that’s only half the tale . On his quest he meets Marielle who can scent emotions and feelings in colors and smells. It is an intoxicating book full of excitement and intrigue and adventure, but also betrayal.
Archaic rituals seem obsolete but are they? This is a rip roaring start to what promises to be a breathtaking magical adventure. And of course dragons are involved.
You cannot fail to be captivated and become one with the emotional roller coaster that our characters experience.
So looking forward to the rest of the series.
August 2, 2019
This is a wonderful new setting from Sarah K. L. Wilson. The idea of having Scenters who can smell emotions is fascinating albeit the excessive descriptions of smells was sometimes overwhelming. The story is fast paced, with only 5 days for the hero to accomplish his task, no wonder. Lots of thought has gone into the development of the Legends and the religion and society of this world. The blind belief and fanatism in this book sometimes reminded me of “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson and I wonder how the other dragon cities act. Hopefully we will get more background about this in the next book, can't wait!
October 11, 2019
Engaging fantasy, managing to introduce a new specialist skill in the Scenters, colourblind trackers with sensitive noses, able to 'scent' emotion (which they smell in colour... ) and useful to the Watch. Marielle is a Scenter who becomes embroiled with Tamerlan, an apprentice Alchemist who fears that his younger sister is to be the annual Sacrifice to appease the dragon over whose body the city is built...
First of three - and well worth following up. An easy read, switching between Marielle and Tamerlan's PsoV. The history of the Legends as well as the magic (and the mysterious Lord Mythos who rules the city) is clearly recounted.
First of three - and well worth following up. An easy read, switching between Marielle and Tamerlan's PsoV. The history of the Legends as well as the magic (and the mysterious Lord Mythos who rules the city) is clearly recounted.
February 22, 2020
Tamerlan, an alchemist apprentice, who would rather be a librarian.
The city of Jingen is celebrating the week long feast of Summernight the longest day of the year.
Amaryllis, his sister, is to be this year's Lady Sacrifice. It is the her blood that will spill over the stone mountain everyone believed to be a sleeping dragon.
Marieille is a Scenter. She patrols with the City Watch to help identify criminals in the act of doing wrong.
Lord what is his name, the mayor of Jingen presides over the Summerfest.
Unbelievably horrible things happen when Tamerlan tries to rescue his sister.
A very gripping tale.
The city of Jingen is celebrating the week long feast of Summernight the longest day of the year.
Amaryllis, his sister, is to be this year's Lady Sacrifice. It is the her blood that will spill over the stone mountain everyone believed to be a sleeping dragon.
Marieille is a Scenter. She patrols with the City Watch to help identify criminals in the act of doing wrong.
Lord what is his name, the mayor of Jingen presides over the Summerfest.
Unbelievably horrible things happen when Tamerlan tries to rescue his sister.
A very gripping tale.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews