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The Oremere Chronicles #0.1-0.9
Dawn of Mist
Discover where The Oremere Chronicles journey began in this epic bind-up of all 16 prequel short stories from bestselling author, Helen Scheuerer.
Before their fight to save the realm from mad tyrants and toxic mist, Bleak, Henri and Swinton led separate lives.
Delve into the secrets, the triumphs and tragedies of their earlier years, and the defining moments that made these much-loved characters who they are.
Teenage Bleak sails across the seas, seeking adventure with her best friend, Bren, and guardian, Senior – only to discover that trouble often finds her first.
Fiercely loyal Henri and her sister, Sahara, train relentlessly to become elite warriors, but soon learn that the Valian Way can be crueller than they ever thought.
A young and ambitious Commander Swinton struggles to prove himself worthy of knighthood, but an encounter with a beautiful stranger shows him that there are things in life more important than titles.
Dawn of Mist is the companion prequel story collection to Helen Scheuerer’s bestselling trilogy, The Oremere Chronicles.
Before their fight to save the realm from mad tyrants and toxic mist, Bleak, Henri and Swinton led separate lives.
Delve into the secrets, the triumphs and tragedies of their earlier years, and the defining moments that made these much-loved characters who they are.
Teenage Bleak sails across the seas, seeking adventure with her best friend, Bren, and guardian, Senior – only to discover that trouble often finds her first.
Fiercely loyal Henri and her sister, Sahara, train relentlessly to become elite warriors, but soon learn that the Valian Way can be crueller than they ever thought.
A young and ambitious Commander Swinton struggles to prove himself worthy of knighthood, but an encounter with a beautiful stranger shows him that there are things in life more important than titles.
Dawn of Mist is the companion prequel story collection to Helen Scheuerer’s bestselling trilogy, The Oremere Chronicles.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2020
116 people are currently reading
1175 people want to read
About the author
Helen Scheuerer
44 books6,540 followersHelen Scheuerer is the fantasy author of the bestselling series, The Oremere Chronicles, the Curse of the Cyren Queen quartet and The Legends of Thezmarr. Her work has been highly praised for its strong, flawed female characters and its action-packed plots.
Helen’s love of writing and books led her to pursue a creative writing degree and a Masters of Publishing. She has been a full-time author since 2018 and now lives amidst the mountains in New Zealand where she is constantly dreaming up new stories.
Helen’s love of writing and books led her to pursue a creative writing degree and a Masters of Publishing. She has been a full-time author since 2018 and now lives amidst the mountains in New Zealand where she is constantly dreaming up new stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 12, 2020
I think I could of had a book solely on Swinton and Fi the more I think about it.
Just to point out I'm not saying that I disliked seeing Bleak, Bren, Sahara and Henri because I did and found their back stories completely heart breaking and very insightful, it's just I LOVED seeing Swinton so happy and Fi with his old friend. They're legit two of my favourite ever characters and it makes me feel all the feels!
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Mini Review
Honestly I could have a full book just in Swindon and Fi and I’d be happy with myself.
It was really interesting seeing the back stories and it made things slot into place on why characters are like they are.
That being said some stories were better than others (but that happens with novellas) and those last 3/4 stories nearly had me in tears. I’ve become very attached to certain characters and knowing what I know I was just a crumbling mess by the end!
————-
I’m a simple girl... I see Oremere Chronicles. I will add to want to read. So excited!
Just to point out I'm not saying that I disliked seeing Bleak, Bren, Sahara and Henri because I did and found their back stories completely heart breaking and very insightful, it's just I LOVED seeing Swinton so happy and Fi with his old friend. They're legit two of my favourite ever characters and it makes me feel all the feels!
---------
Mini Review
Honestly I could have a full book just in Swindon and Fi and I’d be happy with myself.
It was really interesting seeing the back stories and it made things slot into place on why characters are like they are.
That being said some stories were better than others (but that happens with novellas) and those last 3/4 stories nearly had me in tears. I’ve become very attached to certain characters and knowing what I know I was just a crumbling mess by the end!
————-
I’m a simple girl... I see Oremere Chronicles. I will add to want to read. So excited!
March 24, 2020
Just when I thought the beloved Oremere Chronicles was over... BAM! Helen provides her avid readers with a prequel collection in one book! *cue happy dance*.
All of the lives of our favourite characters before they collided are laid out before our eyes in this incredible prequel. I completely agree with Helen when she advises to read Dawn of Mist after the Oremere Chronicles. It really brings the backstories and characters to life again and you sit there reading it and piecing together the events your reading to what is spoken of in the main novels.
You’re swept back into the lives of these characters and getting to learn more of their backstory - which is briefly touched on in the main novels.
We have of course stories from Bleak, including Bren and Senior and boy does it make me miss them so much! The banter between Bleak and Bren perfectly accentuates their relationship and Senior - bless him. Getting more information on Bleak was what I really wanted. Yes, she is the main character of the books BUT she has a pretty shitty life at the start of Heart of Mist so it was eye opening to see how she got there.
My heart really broke for Bleak, all she wanted was to be “fixed” when in reality she didn’t need fixing at all. The world needed to change.
However, I was more excited to read about my favourite soldier duo, Swinton and Fi - let’s be honest Fi is my favourite by a mile *fangirl*. However! After reading this Swinton is even higher up in my books. The brains that Fi and Swinton have in their battles is mesmerising. They have such a beautiful friendship - even when it’s tested. Fi really keeps Swinton in check when he needs it and Swinton always has Fi’s back.
Through thick and thin - these two from prequel to the end - are in it together.
Swinton and Eliza.... that’s all that needs to be said *sobbing*.
I was so pleased to finally be able to read about Henri and Sahara before it all happened. To see their connection before it was broken. To read it as it unfolds, as Sahara’s plan comes into play. Sahara knew exactly what to do.
You know what happens because of the books – but the lead up to it was what I needed in my life to fill in those very very tiny gaps.
Dawn of Mist is the prequel we all needed and I am so glad Helen decided to release them into this book. Reading Dawn of Mist you laugh, you smile, you cry and your heart hurts but damn it is bloody good. The magic of this series, the incredible landscapes and characters that pull at your heart – it’s one of a kind and I will forever be re-reading these characters.
All of the lives of our favourite characters before they collided are laid out before our eyes in this incredible prequel. I completely agree with Helen when she advises to read Dawn of Mist after the Oremere Chronicles. It really brings the backstories and characters to life again and you sit there reading it and piecing together the events your reading to what is spoken of in the main novels.
You’re swept back into the lives of these characters and getting to learn more of their backstory - which is briefly touched on in the main novels.
We have of course stories from Bleak, including Bren and Senior and boy does it make me miss them so much! The banter between Bleak and Bren perfectly accentuates their relationship and Senior - bless him. Getting more information on Bleak was what I really wanted. Yes, she is the main character of the books BUT she has a pretty shitty life at the start of Heart of Mist so it was eye opening to see how she got there.
My heart really broke for Bleak, all she wanted was to be “fixed” when in reality she didn’t need fixing at all. The world needed to change.
However, I was more excited to read about my favourite soldier duo, Swinton and Fi - let’s be honest Fi is my favourite by a mile *fangirl*. However! After reading this Swinton is even higher up in my books. The brains that Fi and Swinton have in their battles is mesmerising. They have such a beautiful friendship - even when it’s tested. Fi really keeps Swinton in check when he needs it and Swinton always has Fi’s back.
Through thick and thin - these two from prequel to the end - are in it together.
Swinton and Eliza.... that’s all that needs to be said *sobbing*.
I was so pleased to finally be able to read about Henri and Sahara before it all happened. To see their connection before it was broken. To read it as it unfolds, as Sahara’s plan comes into play. Sahara knew exactly what to do.
You know what happens because of the books – but the lead up to it was what I needed in my life to fill in those very very tiny gaps.
Dawn of Mist is the prequel we all needed and I am so glad Helen decided to release them into this book. Reading Dawn of Mist you laugh, you smile, you cry and your heart hurts but damn it is bloody good. The magic of this series, the incredible landscapes and characters that pull at your heart – it’s one of a kind and I will forever be re-reading these characters.
May 25, 2020
Every book in this series is just perfection.
Thank you so much to Helen Scheuerer and Talem Press for sending me a copy of The Dawn of Mist, in exchange for an honest review!
Dawn of Mist is a collection of stories following the main characters in the Oremere Chronicles, that take place prior to the first book in the series, Heart of Mist.
I absolutely loved every book in the Oremere Chronicles, and Dawn of Mist was no exception. It was exceptionally heartbreaking in parts, because I already knew what was going to happen to the characters in the following books! Experiencing the backstories in this way rounded out some already wonderfully in depth characters and I felt like I had stepped right into their lives. I honestly can’t even pick a favourite MC in this series, I love them all. Which meant every chapter, no matter who’s story it was, had me enthralled.
I am so grateful for this trip back in time, to watch these much loved character’s become the people they were in Dawn of Mist. If you haven’t read this series yet, just go and pick it up right now. I would pretty much read a grocery list written by Helen Scheuerer at this point. Her writing is just incredible.
MY BLOG ~ INSTAGRAM
Thank you so much to Helen Scheuerer and Talem Press for sending me a copy of The Dawn of Mist, in exchange for an honest review!
Dawn of Mist is a collection of stories following the main characters in the Oremere Chronicles, that take place prior to the first book in the series, Heart of Mist.
I absolutely loved every book in the Oremere Chronicles, and Dawn of Mist was no exception. It was exceptionally heartbreaking in parts, because I already knew what was going to happen to the characters in the following books! Experiencing the backstories in this way rounded out some already wonderfully in depth characters and I felt like I had stepped right into their lives. I honestly can’t even pick a favourite MC in this series, I love them all. Which meant every chapter, no matter who’s story it was, had me enthralled.
I am so grateful for this trip back in time, to watch these much loved character’s become the people they were in Dawn of Mist. If you haven’t read this series yet, just go and pick it up right now. I would pretty much read a grocery list written by Helen Scheuerer at this point. Her writing is just incredible.
MY BLOG ~ INSTAGRAM
December 29, 2024
Prequel novella that broke my heart all over again! I loved getting these back stories though!
June 30, 2020
YES!
This book is exactly what I wanted it to be, a look back before the toxic mist swept across the continents within this world. The characters are some of my absolute favourites EVER. The world Scheuerer has created is one in which I want to live.
I cannot recommend this series highly enough, absolutely incredible. All the feels and I want more.
This book is exactly what I wanted it to be, a look back before the toxic mist swept across the continents within this world. The characters are some of my absolute favourites EVER. The world Scheuerer has created is one in which I want to live.
I cannot recommend this series highly enough, absolutely incredible. All the feels and I want more.
April 14, 2020
Dawn of Mist, as its title predicts, takes you back in time, to the very beginning of the story we have come to love.
Get your copy right here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08...
Although the Oremere Chronicles by @helenscheuerer have come to an end, the story is not yet complete. Dawn of Mist is a bindup of stories about the main characters we have come to love. The stories tell of the time before the war began. Before any of them became heroes. We follow Bleak, Swinton, and Henry throughout the years before Heart of Mist takes place. We learn about how Swinton became the man he is. We get to know more about what his life was like; his love and losses and struggles. We get a glimpse of Bleak’s life when all was still simple yet one big question mark. We see Henri happily at home in the Valia forest, training to become who she is meant to be.
It all sounds beautiful at first. The lives of your favorite character before everything goes to hell. But even simple lives aren’t all rose-tainted. There are still fears and struggle and pain. Dawn of Mist gives you a perfect balance of happy memories—and yes, they do feel like memories—and painful ones. It’s a perfect concoction that is sure to give you every emotion you could possibly feel.
Dawn of Mist was exactly what I needed in order to accept that to all good things comes and end. For all lovers of the Oremere Chronicles, Dawn of Mist is the missing puzzle piece you’ve been looking for.
Get your copy right here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08...
Although the Oremere Chronicles by @helenscheuerer have come to an end, the story is not yet complete. Dawn of Mist is a bindup of stories about the main characters we have come to love. The stories tell of the time before the war began. Before any of them became heroes. We follow Bleak, Swinton, and Henry throughout the years before Heart of Mist takes place. We learn about how Swinton became the man he is. We get to know more about what his life was like; his love and losses and struggles. We get a glimpse of Bleak’s life when all was still simple yet one big question mark. We see Henri happily at home in the Valia forest, training to become who she is meant to be.
It all sounds beautiful at first. The lives of your favorite character before everything goes to hell. But even simple lives aren’t all rose-tainted. There are still fears and struggle and pain. Dawn of Mist gives you a perfect balance of happy memories—and yes, they do feel like memories—and painful ones. It’s a perfect concoction that is sure to give you every emotion you could possibly feel.
Dawn of Mist was exactly what I needed in order to accept that to all good things comes and end. For all lovers of the Oremere Chronicles, Dawn of Mist is the missing puzzle piece you’ve been looking for.
October 22, 2020
The series is GREAT! And these prequel little stories broke my heart! I love Dash even more and I understood Dimi a bit ... sigh. Anyway, Highly recommended
June 26, 2020
Loved it!
March 27, 2020
Before picking up this book, I urge you to first read the trilogy: Heart of Mist, Reign of Mist, and War of Mist. The Oremere Chronicles is a fantasy trilogy that is a must for readers who like their books with:
🍃 Strong female characters
🍃 Awesome fighting scenes and cunning battle tactics
🍃 Underdog characters
🍃 Satisfying character arcs
If you’d like a more in-depth review for the books, you can check out my reviews for each book by clicking the links below.
🌺 Book One: Heart of Mist
🌺 Book Two: Reign Of Mist
🌺 Book Three: War of Mist
Dawn of Mist landed on my Kindle at the right time. I had been missing The Oremere Chronicles but I’ve had no time for a re-read as yet! I was missing the beautiful world, the characters, and the overall adventure we went on. It says a lot about a series when the world sticks with you even after you’ve read the last word.
In Dawn of Mist, we are taken to a time before the characters knew each other; before their lives had been touched and changed. The beauty of reading prequels is not just having to know the characters before the main trilogy but picking up pieces of a puzzle that led to events in The Oremere Chronicles.
🌺 AUTHOR INTERVIEW: HELEN SCHEUERER TALKS ABOUT THE OREMERE CHRONICLES & HER AUTHOR JOURNEY
The stories tell us about Bleak’s fishing days with Senior and Bren. I absolutely adored the dynamic Bleak and Senior had! He was such a loving and jovial man. Although Bleak’s had a terrible experience, and despite the danger to him, Senior took in Bleak and treated her like his daughter. Having their story told made me better understand Bleak’s grief and connection to Senior that we see in the trilogy.
Commander Swinton and Captain Fiore’s relationship was another portrayed in the prequel. I have always loved Fiore, so naturally, I was excited to meet him again! When I first read Heart of Mist, I have to admit that I didn’t quite like Commander Swinton. I think, it was somewhere towards the end of Reign of Mist and War of Mist that I began to like him. However, his earlier days show him in a different light. The younger Commader Swinton is fun-loving and very awkward! Especially when he first meets Eliza Carlington. I would love to have a whole book about them! I enjoyed reading about the way Fiore and Swinton planned their battles; how they always looked out for each other. Their friendship is just *chef’s kiss.*
We also have stories about Henri and Sahara. Their sisterhood had me smiling the whole time I was reading. Of course, having read Heart of Mist, we know that their connection will eventually be broken. So while I dreaded that, it was good to have the chance to see how Sahara’s plan came to fruition.
What I loved about Dawn of Mist is how it gave us the chance to know the characters outside a life fraught with danger. We are introduced to the people they love and who loved them back. Dawn of Mist gave us this chance to watch how their love for their families shaped them. Commander Swinton was shaped by Eliza’s compassion, Bleak by Senior’s kindness, and Henri by Sahara’s determination. Even though we may not have these characters in the trilogy, they are very much present in our main characters.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can find me at Camillea Reads || Twitter || Instagram || Tumblr
🍃 Strong female characters
🍃 Awesome fighting scenes and cunning battle tactics
🍃 Underdog characters
🍃 Satisfying character arcs
If you’d like a more in-depth review for the books, you can check out my reviews for each book by clicking the links below.
🌺 Book One: Heart of Mist
🌺 Book Two: Reign Of Mist
🌺 Book Three: War of Mist
Dawn of Mist landed on my Kindle at the right time. I had been missing The Oremere Chronicles but I’ve had no time for a re-read as yet! I was missing the beautiful world, the characters, and the overall adventure we went on. It says a lot about a series when the world sticks with you even after you’ve read the last word.
In Dawn of Mist, we are taken to a time before the characters knew each other; before their lives had been touched and changed. The beauty of reading prequels is not just having to know the characters before the main trilogy but picking up pieces of a puzzle that led to events in The Oremere Chronicles.
🌺 AUTHOR INTERVIEW: HELEN SCHEUERER TALKS ABOUT THE OREMERE CHRONICLES & HER AUTHOR JOURNEY
The stories tell us about Bleak’s fishing days with Senior and Bren. I absolutely adored the dynamic Bleak and Senior had! He was such a loving and jovial man. Although Bleak’s had a terrible experience, and despite the danger to him, Senior took in Bleak and treated her like his daughter. Having their story told made me better understand Bleak’s grief and connection to Senior that we see in the trilogy.
Commander Swinton and Captain Fiore’s relationship was another portrayed in the prequel. I have always loved Fiore, so naturally, I was excited to meet him again! When I first read Heart of Mist, I have to admit that I didn’t quite like Commander Swinton. I think, it was somewhere towards the end of Reign of Mist and War of Mist that I began to like him. However, his earlier days show him in a different light. The younger Commader Swinton is fun-loving and very awkward! Especially when he first meets Eliza Carlington. I would love to have a whole book about them! I enjoyed reading about the way Fiore and Swinton planned their battles; how they always looked out for each other. Their friendship is just *chef’s kiss.*
We also have stories about Henri and Sahara. Their sisterhood had me smiling the whole time I was reading. Of course, having read Heart of Mist, we know that their connection will eventually be broken. So while I dreaded that, it was good to have the chance to see how Sahara’s plan came to fruition.
What I loved about Dawn of Mist is how it gave us the chance to know the characters outside a life fraught with danger. We are introduced to the people they love and who loved them back. Dawn of Mist gave us this chance to watch how their love for their families shaped them. Commander Swinton was shaped by Eliza’s compassion, Bleak by Senior’s kindness, and Henri by Sahara’s determination. Even though we may not have these characters in the trilogy, they are very much present in our main characters.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can find me at Camillea Reads || Twitter || Instagram || Tumblr
April 9, 2020
First of all, thank you to Helen Scheuerer for kindly sending me an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely love this series and will support it to the end of days. Dawn of Mist is a prequel collection of short stories, about some of the characters that you'll meet throughout the series. And though it is a prequel, I think this book is best read after reading the Heart of Mist trilogy as it brings to life the characters that you'll grow to love and give them even more depth.
THINGS I LIKED:
- Honestly, one of the things I loved about this trilogy is the world-building. Helen creates such a beautiful and dark world, and she's able to intertwine events that have happened together. And in Dawn of Mist, we get not only more world-building, but also to see the pasts of some of our beloved characters, and the events that happened to shape the people that they are.
- I love all the characters in this series. And seeing how far they've come from their pasts to the ending of the trilogy is so satisfying and heartwarming. They've all grown as individuals and it's inspiring to read about.
- *whispers* do you remember Senior, the lovely fisherman who took care of Bleak? Yes he reappears in this book. Her story really captives how hard life can be, but it's also inspiring to see her grow strong and despite the hardships, come out on top.
- FI ALSO MAKES AN APPEARANCE!! I would have loved to have had an opportunity to read about Fi's past, but seeing Swinton's and Fi's friendship and camaraderie is just as amazing and satisfying.
- Overall, the writing is so easy to get lost into. Helen is able to write in a way that enchants the audience, and she builds such amazing characters that are very relatable too.
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:
- That this series has come to an end *cries* there may not be any more book relating to this world anymore and it makes me sad. But I'm still so happy for Helen and her accomplishments!!
- Yes, I don't really have anything negative to add here, just go read the series and then this book. You will not regret it.
Overall, if you love books about strong female characters, amazing and in-depth character arcs, magic and suspense, then this book is for you!
Dawn of Mist will release on the 16th of April 2020, and you can preorder the e-book now on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Mist-Orem...
THINGS I LIKED:
- Honestly, one of the things I loved about this trilogy is the world-building. Helen creates such a beautiful and dark world, and she's able to intertwine events that have happened together. And in Dawn of Mist, we get not only more world-building, but also to see the pasts of some of our beloved characters, and the events that happened to shape the people that they are.
- I love all the characters in this series. And seeing how far they've come from their pasts to the ending of the trilogy is so satisfying and heartwarming. They've all grown as individuals and it's inspiring to read about.
- *whispers* do you remember Senior, the lovely fisherman who took care of Bleak? Yes he reappears in this book. Her story really captives how hard life can be, but it's also inspiring to see her grow strong and despite the hardships, come out on top.
- FI ALSO MAKES AN APPEARANCE!! I would have loved to have had an opportunity to read about Fi's past, but seeing Swinton's and Fi's friendship and camaraderie is just as amazing and satisfying.
- Overall, the writing is so easy to get lost into. Helen is able to write in a way that enchants the audience, and she builds such amazing characters that are very relatable too.
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:
- That this series has come to an end *cries* there may not be any more book relating to this world anymore and it makes me sad. But I'm still so happy for Helen and her accomplishments!!
- Yes, I don't really have anything negative to add here, just go read the series and then this book. You will not regret it.
Overall, if you love books about strong female characters, amazing and in-depth character arcs, magic and suspense, then this book is for you!
Dawn of Mist will release on the 16th of April 2020, and you can preorder the e-book now on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Mist-Orem...
April 16, 2020
What. A. Prequel. The Oremere Chronicles, Heart of Mist in particular, was one of the first fantasy novels I dipped my toes into and from the first page I was enamored, with Bleak in particular. As the stories progressed I became obsessed with Fiore and most especially in love with Henri and the strength she inspires. Joining them on their journey through trials and tribulations was an honour and an experience like no other. The depth of each characters story was fantastic but i knew I wanted even more, especially about Swinton and Henri. And then it was as if Helen could read our minds and started to release short stories with extra content and back stories on each of our favourite characters. I would be overjoyed each time a new short story appeared in my inbox. To read these stories again now in Dawn of Mist along with the new ones was in a word, magical. Dawn of Mist is the exact collection of stories we need to escape from the dark times we're facing in our current reality. Origin stories have always held a special place in my heart, these in particular have a part of my soul.
A have to share a few special moments for me within the novel. When Henri, Sahara and their kindred went through the trials to become warriors I was on the edge of my seat. Such fast paced action combined with so many emotions had my knuckles going white from gripping my Kindle so hard. I genuinely felt like I was there battling with them, swinging through the treetops and found myself holding my breath frequently in anticipation of the next move.
When Bleak and Bren took the ship out solo for the first time I felt as free as they did and probably as nervous as they did too. Their friendship is just so beautiful, you can tell the love runs so deep, it was a pleasure to watch their relationship grow.
Swinton and Fiore, what can I say my friends, I'd go to battle with you any day of the week though I'm not sure I could ever get as close to snakes as they did; that particular scene had my skin crawling!
The fact that Helen has captured these characters so beautifully is a testament to the amazing author she is, every single book in this series has had such a great flow with twists and turns to keep us guessing and keep us as readers intrigued and on our toes. I'd like to say Brava, thank you and congratulations on an incredible series. To my beloved characters, I hope we'll meet again soon.
A have to share a few special moments for me within the novel. When Henri, Sahara and their kindred went through the trials to become warriors I was on the edge of my seat. Such fast paced action combined with so many emotions had my knuckles going white from gripping my Kindle so hard. I genuinely felt like I was there battling with them, swinging through the treetops and found myself holding my breath frequently in anticipation of the next move.
When Bleak and Bren took the ship out solo for the first time I felt as free as they did and probably as nervous as they did too. Their friendship is just so beautiful, you can tell the love runs so deep, it was a pleasure to watch their relationship grow.
Swinton and Fiore, what can I say my friends, I'd go to battle with you any day of the week though I'm not sure I could ever get as close to snakes as they did; that particular scene had my skin crawling!
The fact that Helen has captured these characters so beautifully is a testament to the amazing author she is, every single book in this series has had such a great flow with twists and turns to keep us guessing and keep us as readers intrigued and on our toes. I'd like to say Brava, thank you and congratulations on an incredible series. To my beloved characters, I hope we'll meet again soon.
October 19, 2022
I won a ebook from the author with no obligation to review. It had not affected my opinions.
DAWN OF MIST is a series of prequels (short stories? Intercut novellas?) about three of the main characters in the series, showing major moment in their life that affect their trajectories in the series.
I liked seeing the backstory hinted at in the book come to life. I particularly enjoyed spending time with a character we only ever hear about but never see on page (despite the enormous impact they have in many ways on one character.)
This set of prequel novellas has an interesting structure depending on how you look at it. Either it's three sets of connected short stories for Bleak, Henri, and Swinton, charting their lives over years, or it's three novellas split up so that a bit of another novella is interspersed. The stories follow on from one another, with the arc following across them rather than each story feeling like a contained unit with a beginning, middle, and end. I definitely felt it was the latter, and it was nice to read something with a less standard structure.
You can read this before or after the main series. There is a grand total of one spoiler in it all (for the first book) but I read this after the main series and that is the way the author recommends. You know the characters by then and so there's a lot more "oh" of seeing events play out (not to mention the fact that there's more pay off that way as none of the stories/novellas really have a big finale, so that might leave you disappointed if you start there.)
DAWN OF MIST is a series of prequels (short stories? Intercut novellas?) about three of the main characters in the series, showing major moment in their life that affect their trajectories in the series.
I liked seeing the backstory hinted at in the book come to life. I particularly enjoyed spending time with a character we only ever hear about but never see on page (despite the enormous impact they have in many ways on one character.)
This set of prequel novellas has an interesting structure depending on how you look at it. Either it's three sets of connected short stories for Bleak, Henri, and Swinton, charting their lives over years, or it's three novellas split up so that a bit of another novella is interspersed. The stories follow on from one another, with the arc following across them rather than each story feeling like a contained unit with a beginning, middle, and end. I definitely felt it was the latter, and it was nice to read something with a less standard structure.
You can read this before or after the main series. There is a grand total of one spoiler in it all (for the first book) but I read this after the main series and that is the way the author recommends. You know the characters by then and so there's a lot more "oh" of seeing events play out (not to mention the fact that there's more pay off that way as none of the stories/novellas really have a big finale, so that might leave you disappointed if you start there.)
July 15, 2020
This book revelas the moments that defined our much loved characters. The death of Senior for Bleak, Sahara for Henri and Eliza for Dimitri with the tales of their lives leading up to them; events that have been hinted at and mentioned within the main series.
I will admit my main reason for picking this up was finally learning about Swinton's past, I've wanted to since it was mentioned in the very first book. Seeing the friendship between Bren and Bleak evolve, and learning about Henri's rigorous training and her straining relationships were still great stories and insights on their own.
But Dimitri's? I don't think a book has ever made me cry before... Seeing the interactions between Eliza and Dimitri, watching their relationship evolve, hearing about how Eliza died and Dimitri's reaction.... All of this while knowing the struggle he went through in the series and what his fate was? It's just too much, he didn't deserve what he got.
Sorry Bleak, Henri, Fi and everyone else, but I think Swinton is by far my favourite character.
I will admit my main reason for picking this up was finally learning about Swinton's past, I've wanted to since it was mentioned in the very first book. Seeing the friendship between Bren and Bleak evolve, and learning about Henri's rigorous training and her straining relationships were still great stories and insights on their own.
But Dimitri's? I don't think a book has ever made me cry before... Seeing the interactions between Eliza and Dimitri, watching their relationship evolve, hearing about how Eliza died and Dimitri's reaction.... All of this while knowing the struggle he went through in the series and what his fate was? It's just too much, he didn't deserve what he got.
Sorry Bleak, Henri, Fi and everyone else, but I think Swinton is by far my favourite character.
April 15, 2020
Character Revelations!
Another amazing read from Helen Scheuerer allows us to dive back in (and back in time) to see our favourite characters like never before. The beautifully written 16 prequel stories shed new light on the characters we know and love. I felt like I was behind the scenes with a VIP pass!
Any secrets or questions from the trilogy you wanted answered are unabashedly exposed, but be careful what you wish for! Stories of joy and celebration are apt to be followed by utter heartbreak – I’m not sure I was ready to learn the truth about Swinton’s devastating past.
It was a pleasure to be in the midst of the Oremere world again, this time with such a strong focus on characters it was a different and richer experience and everything I wanted from a prequel story.
5 Stars.
Another amazing read from Helen Scheuerer allows us to dive back in (and back in time) to see our favourite characters like never before. The beautifully written 16 prequel stories shed new light on the characters we know and love. I felt like I was behind the scenes with a VIP pass!
Any secrets or questions from the trilogy you wanted answered are unabashedly exposed, but be careful what you wish for! Stories of joy and celebration are apt to be followed by utter heartbreak – I’m not sure I was ready to learn the truth about Swinton’s devastating past.
It was a pleasure to be in the midst of the Oremere world again, this time with such a strong focus on characters it was a different and richer experience and everything I wanted from a prequel story.
5 Stars.
April 16, 2020
The Oremere Chronicles was one of my top reads of 2019. I loved those books! I was so excited when I saw that Helen Scheuerer had written a prequel, a collection of short stories and vignettes the filled in some background to characters and events in the Chronicles. And that excitement was not misplaced -- Dawn of Mist was a worthy addition to the Chronicles. Much of it was truly excellent. 4 stars instead of 5 because there were a few weak spots, stories that were more like sketches, and the fact that this is definitely not a stand alone. Without having already read the Chronicles the average reader would make little sense of this collection. But to those of us who know these characters these short stories are gold!
And now I am anxiously awaiting pretty much anything Ms Scheuerer chooses to write next I have a new favourite writer!
And now I am anxiously awaiting pretty much anything Ms Scheuerer chooses to write next I have a new favourite writer!
March 22, 2024
Oh gosh I forgot just how much I love these characters. Fully admitting I’m giving this 5 stars largely due to the nostalgia (can an only few months away actually create nostalgia? In this case, apparently) of being in these characters’ heads again. Also Eliza 😭 and Senior 😭 and all the backstory things we only got hints of in the main series 😭. I’m very disappointed that there are no more books or stories in the Oremere world left to read. I suppose a re-read will be in order in the next couple years when I inevitably miss these characters too much to stay away.
Also, props to the narrator of the audiobook for this series. She’s definitely one of my favorite narrators I’ve listened to in recent years. Her voice suits Helen’s writing style so well and it made me love the characters even more than I already did.
Also, props to the narrator of the audiobook for this series. She’s definitely one of my favorite narrators I’ve listened to in recent years. Her voice suits Helen’s writing style so well and it made me love the characters even more than I already did.
April 1, 2020
I was graciously given an arc of this in exchange for an honest reveiw. All opions and thoughts are my own.
One thing i love more then anything when reading a series is being able to read prequels. To just dive futher into a charactors story and history and find out how they got to where they are.
The short stories are all based on the main charactors in the series. Bleak ( senior and Bren), Henrietta (The Kindred) and Swinton and FI .
Out of all the short stories in Dawn Mist my favorite is definitely the last one. Master Dash! What a great way to end the book. Don't get me wrong i loved all the stories but it was the second last and last when it just hit home, well it almost brought a tear to my eye.
One thing i love more then anything when reading a series is being able to read prequels. To just dive futher into a charactors story and history and find out how they got to where they are.
The short stories are all based on the main charactors in the series. Bleak ( senior and Bren), Henrietta (The Kindred) and Swinton and FI .
Out of all the short stories in Dawn Mist my favorite is definitely the last one. Master Dash! What a great way to end the book. Don't get me wrong i loved all the stories but it was the second last and last when it just hit home, well it almost brought a tear to my eye.
November 8, 2021
I wasn't sure if I was going to read this but I thought I had read the previous books so why not. What I loved about a Dawn of Mist is getting to know the main characters before their paths intertwined. Getting to know a little more about Bleak, Swinton, Henri and little Dash and what made them them. I wish there had been a little background for Fi, but that's because I love Fi.
Getting a glimpse of their pasts gives you a better understanding of their characters and how they become the people they are in the present. You learn about their past relationships, Bleak and Senior, Swinton and Eliza, Henri and Sahara, the people they loved and lost in ways that made them and broke them,
I was sad for it to be over but I am going to move on to Helens other series eagerly.
Getting a glimpse of their pasts gives you a better understanding of their characters and how they become the people they are in the present. You learn about their past relationships, Bleak and Senior, Swinton and Eliza, Henri and Sahara, the people they loved and lost in ways that made them and broke them,
I was sad for it to be over but I am going to move on to Helens other series eagerly.
April 17, 2020
This was a great collection of stories that encompass the lives of characters that we have grown to know and love...and sometimes have other feelings for. It was an interesting path that we walked as we are able to see how things began. It was amazing to be a kind of fly on the wall as we were able to take a step back into the world that we have come to love.
I enjoyed being able to see things from completely different perspectives, knowing the things we now know. It was also great to have the ability to step back into a world that ended too soon. Any excuse is a great excuse to be able to get back into the world of Oremere.
I enjoyed being able to see things from completely different perspectives, knowing the things we now know. It was also great to have the ability to step back into a world that ended too soon. Any excuse is a great excuse to be able to get back into the world of Oremere.
May 5, 2021
Usually I like short story compilations based on the worlds my favorite authors create in their series - for ex Lloyd Alexander and Garth Nix. This one was alright. While I enjoyed seeing what Bleak was like before alcoholism and depression encroached on her life, the stories for the most part didnt add anything new to the Oremere series. Most of it was history that was mentioned already during the series. While I appreciate the author's stated purpose that these stories were an outlet for her to get to know her characters, personally I would have enjoyed something with more lore/world-building or ancient mythology.
January 10, 2022
Aww I loved this ... even kept me up late reading as I just kept saying...one more chapter, one more story.
It filled in some great background on some events eluded to in the main trilogy
When I go to reread this series (which I definitely will be) I'll read this first before the main trilogy (as all the chapters are prequel) BUT for those who haven't read Heart of Mist yet I would suggest reading the main trilogy first (or at least the first book) as this isn't an introduction to the characters but more like flashbacks (I.e there's no introducing people and assumes you know who everyone is already!)
Cant wait to read the authors other series now
It filled in some great background on some events eluded to in the main trilogy
When I go to reread this series (which I definitely will be) I'll read this first before the main trilogy (as all the chapters are prequel) BUT for those who haven't read Heart of Mist yet I would suggest reading the main trilogy first (or at least the first book) as this isn't an introduction to the characters but more like flashbacks (I.e there's no introducing people and assumes you know who everyone is already!)
Cant wait to read the authors other series now
January 5, 2026
A nice little tid bit to enjoy before or after the series. I read it afterwards and it helped to add to the back story of the characters and the challenges they faced before book one in the series.
It also offers a couple of easter eggs that I wouldn't have spotted if I hadn't already read the series.
Helen is the queen of writing lovable characters, they begin to feel like friends or family by the time her series come to completion, and so novellas like this one feel like visiting a friend or family. You just cant help but fall in love with her characters.
Unfortunately now its time for me to leave Oremere behind.
It also offers a couple of easter eggs that I wouldn't have spotted if I hadn't already read the series.
Helen is the queen of writing lovable characters, they begin to feel like friends or family by the time her series come to completion, and so novellas like this one feel like visiting a friend or family. You just cant help but fall in love with her characters.
Unfortunately now its time for me to leave Oremere behind.
May 25, 2020
I so needed this book! The Oremere Chronicles are one of my favourite book series, alongside Throne of Glass and ACOTAR. I was so upset when I finished the series, I needed more! Then Helen announced she was publishing a prequel collection and I swear I leapt for joy!!! It was heartbreaking finally finding out what happened to some of my favourite characters Bleak, Senior, Bren, Henri, Sahara, Athene, Dimitri, Eliza and Dash’s beginning, and I still need more. I definitely will be rereading the Oremere Chronicles soon enough!
October 19, 2021
This was a collection of short stories featuring all of the characters from the main series. I loved every single one of them. I went from not caring about anyone in the first book of the series, to crying real tears in the last book. Ugh. I'm actually angry about how thoroughly the author dragged me into the world, and held me there, and made me care and feel. Hmph.
I want a whole series featuring Dash, please. I love that boy.
I want a whole series featuring Dash, please. I love that boy.
November 9, 2020
I loved reading of all the backstories of the main characters, especially Commander Swinton. His storyline in the main series was my favourite, and I loved reading about the events that shaped his character. That being said, all the stories were magnificently well written and engaging, setting the scene for the main story. Really enjoyed!
January 8, 2021
The prequel to the Heart of Mist Trilogy! I'll admit reading about characters that didn't make it to the end of the Trilogy made me tear up for the first quarter of the book, which is no good when you are listening to the book while driving. It was fun knowing the stories then going back to get the details of how it all started.
March 21, 2024
Jury is out on this - this is my 2nd series by this author - the first for me being The Legends of Thezmarr (waiting for the 4th book to be written) - I loved it. So eagerly looked for another series to read by this author. So the prequel…love the characters which I guessing we will read more about in the full series. I’ll leave it there and see what’s what with the series proper.
April 13, 2020
In this collection of short stories, we get a few snapshots of Bleak, Henri, Swinton and, towards the end, Dash’s lives before the adventures that take place in the three Oremere Chronicles novels. Each story had the same captivating story telling you can expect to find when reading one of Helen Scheuerer’s creations.
You can read my full review here!
My three favourite short stories in this collection are:
- A Commander’s Place
- The Gift; and
- Dash.
Overall, this collection of short stories was both enjoyable and an interesting extension of the main storyline and well worth the read for fans of the series.
You can read my full review here!
My three favourite short stories in this collection are:
- A Commander’s Place
- The Gift; and
- Dash.
Overall, this collection of short stories was both enjoyable and an interesting extension of the main storyline and well worth the read for fans of the series.
April 17, 2020
This is prequel so such a perfect book for the Oremere chronicles seeing the lives of the main characters seeing how they all become who they are for the series. Seeing the love & loss they go through. A brilliant job by Helen.
April 26, 2020
I found that this book was very easy to finish, and it part the reason for it was the knowledge you would have because the Oremere Chronicles were already finished. It made me read the whole series again, to be honest.
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