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Genesis Crystal Saga #1
Dawn till Dusk
He's out for vengeance. She's bent on stopping him.
Pain and hatred consume Tarik, the hot-headed Fae whose addiction to fighting shifters could be the death of him. Stuck in a city ruled by dragons, seeking vengeance is his only mission.
As a shifter, and the city’s Night Enforcer, Reagan’s job is to stop him. She quickly learns that trouble follows him at every turn, and keeping him alive leads her to make decisions that may have deadly consequences.
When a disastrous event forces these long-standing enemies to unravel a sinister plot, prejudice must be pushed aside. And lurking beneath the hatred is something neither of them are prepared for.
Discover Nathra City’s darkest secret in this enemies-to-lovers, NA Urban Fantasy Adventure Romance, perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
Pain and hatred consume Tarik, the hot-headed Fae whose addiction to fighting shifters could be the death of him. Stuck in a city ruled by dragons, seeking vengeance is his only mission.
As a shifter, and the city’s Night Enforcer, Reagan’s job is to stop him. She quickly learns that trouble follows him at every turn, and keeping him alive leads her to make decisions that may have deadly consequences.
When a disastrous event forces these long-standing enemies to unravel a sinister plot, prejudice must be pushed aside. And lurking beneath the hatred is something neither of them are prepared for.
Discover Nathra City’s darkest secret in this enemies-to-lovers, NA Urban Fantasy Adventure Romance, perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
350 pages, ebook
First published April 22, 2020
134 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Tyffany Hackett
8 books79 followersCheck out Tyffany’s Bookstagram account for regular updates and other bookish content: https://www.instagram.com/tyffany.h/
Tyffany Hackett is an award-winning author of Young Adult and New Adult Fantasy. Her stories are filled with strong women, found family, powerful friendships, and lots of loveable cinnamon rolls.
Residing in Upstate New York, Tyffany spends her days corralling her little minecraft addict and her nights trying to make the words go. In her down time you can find her killing reapers, darkspawn, or battling for the horde.
CONNECT WITH TYFFANY ON:
• Website: www.TyffanyHackett.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/Tyffany.h
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/TyffanyHackettAu...
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Tyffany_H
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Tyffany_H
Tyffany Hackett is an award-winning author of Young Adult and New Adult Fantasy. Her stories are filled with strong women, found family, powerful friendships, and lots of loveable cinnamon rolls.
Residing in Upstate New York, Tyffany spends her days corralling her little minecraft addict and her nights trying to make the words go. In her down time you can find her killing reapers, darkspawn, or battling for the horde.
CONNECT WITH TYFFANY ON:
• Website: www.TyffanyHackett.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/Tyffany.h
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/TyffanyHackettAu...
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Tyffany_H
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Tyffany_H
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
April 14, 2020
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oh my goodness. Where do I even begin with this amazing book.
I devoured this book within 3 days and I was engrossed and invested in Reagan and Tarik's story the entire time. I just could not stop reading. Reagan and Tarik are such amazing beautiful broken babies that I just want to hug and hide away from all the pain. Their story really took me on a rollercoaster of emotions and despite my heart being torn out and put back in, the ride was amazing and is one that will likely stay with me for a long time to come. I can't wait to hop on the next one with book 2.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars. I would give more if I were able.
Oh my goodness. Where do I even begin with this amazing book.
I devoured this book within 3 days and I was engrossed and invested in Reagan and Tarik's story the entire time. I just could not stop reading. Reagan and Tarik are such amazing beautiful broken babies that I just want to hug and hide away from all the pain. Their story really took me on a rollercoaster of emotions and despite my heart being torn out and put back in, the ride was amazing and is one that will likely stay with me for a long time to come. I can't wait to hop on the next one with book 2.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars. I would give more if I were able.
April 30, 2020
TRIGGER WARNINGS AT THE BOTTOM.
Knowing this book is written by two authors, I was curious to see what it would feel like. Being familiar with Tyffany's writing, the question was whether or not I'd enjoy it seeing merged with someone else's. Conclusion? Didn't mind it one bit! The combination of fast-paced events, slower-paced moments and the flowing between the two was well done by both authors. I also really enjoyed the attention to detail when it came to descriptions and the outlining of action-packed scenes.
There are two main characters, two points of view and they're both written by a different author. Where Tarik, an elf, struggles with his past and has yet to overcome it, Raegan, a lion shifter, struggles with her present. Seeing both of them challenge themselves to put the past behind them, to deal with the present.. was.. addictive, maybe? I couldn't get enough of it, that's for sure.
The world-building was done well. I did have a lot of questions at first, but they mostly got answered throughout the book. The ones I didn't get answers to? Well, I'm pretty sure I was meant to be stuck with those since I'm sure I'll be finding out more in the sequel. So I can't complain! Points!
I'm intrigued by the story itself. There are things going on we only get to see part of - for now - and although I had my suspicions from the start, I was still invested in the story. I wanted to find out how it would progress and get to the point I foresaw. [I sound so omimous right now but.. whatever.]
There's only one thing I struggled with while reading, and.. it's something that's mentioned on the Goodreads-page of this book. The enemies-to-lovers thing. Sure, they were enemies at first, but I feel like there was some progress missing at the start of their relationship to show how they actually fell for one another? It went too fast, too abrupt for my liking and it felt less real to me because of it. I am a sucker for slowburn romances though, so that's definitely playing its part here as well.
If you like a story with two different, yet like-minded main characters, with magic and elves and shifters and maybe even more magical creatures to come - you should totally check out this new series!
4 / 5
Trigger warnings:
Knowing this book is written by two authors, I was curious to see what it would feel like. Being familiar with Tyffany's writing, the question was whether or not I'd enjoy it seeing merged with someone else's. Conclusion? Didn't mind it one bit! The combination of fast-paced events, slower-paced moments and the flowing between the two was well done by both authors. I also really enjoyed the attention to detail when it came to descriptions and the outlining of action-packed scenes.
The cost of getting close to me was scars. It was only fitting that I should bear some of them.
There are two main characters, two points of view and they're both written by a different author. Where Tarik, an elf, struggles with his past and has yet to overcome it, Raegan, a lion shifter, struggles with her present. Seeing both of them challenge themselves to put the past behind them, to deal with the present.. was.. addictive, maybe? I couldn't get enough of it, that's for sure.
The world-building was done well. I did have a lot of questions at first, but they mostly got answered throughout the book. The ones I didn't get answers to? Well, I'm pretty sure I was meant to be stuck with those since I'm sure I'll be finding out more in the sequel. So I can't complain! Points!
I'm intrigued by the story itself. There are things going on we only get to see part of - for now - and although I had my suspicions from the start, I was still invested in the story. I wanted to find out how it would progress and get to the point I foresaw. [I sound so omimous right now but.. whatever.]
If she's a white angel, then I'm the black demon in the shadows waiting to drag her down to hell.
There's only one thing I struggled with while reading, and.. it's something that's mentioned on the Goodreads-page of this book. The enemies-to-lovers thing. Sure, they were enemies at first, but I feel like there was some progress missing at the start of their relationship to show how they actually fell for one another? It went too fast, too abrupt for my liking and it felt less real to me because of it. I am a sucker for slowburn romances though, so that's definitely playing its part here as well.
If you like a story with two different, yet like-minded main characters, with magic and elves and shifters and maybe even more magical creatures to come - you should totally check out this new series!
4 / 5
Trigger warnings:
May 9, 2020
“I am fierce. Fierce.”
What an absolutely perfect way to describe the main heroine in this book. Reagan is fierce, brave, kind and absolutely determined. She is the kind of character that you can get behind, that you feel protective of. When she is triumphant you are elated and when she cries you want to hurt those who have hurt her, but you don’t need to because she can handle herself.
“Destruction followed me wherever I went.”
And our hero the beautiful, damaged, brilliant Tarik. He is everything we all want in our hero’s; much of the time you cheer him on and mentally push him to do the right things, that you know he wants to do. But often you spend you time exasperated, yelling at him 😁. I’m absolutely in love with Tarik and his character growth through out this book.
If it isn’t clear, I absolutely adored this book. Read it under 48 hours. It inspired all the emotions that I consider a great book to have: tears, laughter, butterflies, frustration, anger and questions... oh so many questions. Along with these two delightful characters, you find a wonderful support group around them bringing the laughter and feels not to mention a truly deplorable villain. I cannot wait for book two to come out. These authors work brilliantly together!
What an absolutely perfect way to describe the main heroine in this book. Reagan is fierce, brave, kind and absolutely determined. She is the kind of character that you can get behind, that you feel protective of. When she is triumphant you are elated and when she cries you want to hurt those who have hurt her, but you don’t need to because she can handle herself.
“Destruction followed me wherever I went.”
And our hero the beautiful, damaged, brilliant Tarik. He is everything we all want in our hero’s; much of the time you cheer him on and mentally push him to do the right things, that you know he wants to do. But often you spend you time exasperated, yelling at him 😁. I’m absolutely in love with Tarik and his character growth through out this book.
If it isn’t clear, I absolutely adored this book. Read it under 48 hours. It inspired all the emotions that I consider a great book to have: tears, laughter, butterflies, frustration, anger and questions... oh so many questions. Along with these two delightful characters, you find a wonderful support group around them bringing the laughter and feels not to mention a truly deplorable villain. I cannot wait for book two to come out. These authors work brilliantly together!
April 15, 2020
Here we have it!! A beautiful product of heartfelt love of two amazing authors.
I loved every second of this gorgeous novel filled with shifters and faes. I am a sucker for paranormal and when we put the star crossed lovers trope, mixed with forbidden love trope, sign me up, please, as I need every second of it.
Dawn till Dusk is just the first book in a SAGA, you guys!! SO SO much is going to happen and I don't know if my heart can take the pain that I am anticipating.
Tarik and Reagan! I fell in love with these two from the first sight and page. These two are such good and pure souls, my heart aches for them and their story. Two broken souls coming together and making something more. AHHH YOU GOTTA MEET THEM. You gotta meet my brooding, sassy, silver-tongued Tarik with his fiery personality and shock of red hair (he has freckles, dammit) and my soft hearted, true, loyal, kind shifter babe Reagan. You gotta meet the wonderful cast of faes!!
This story has continuation and I am so so ready to have the second book in my hands like NOW.
All I gotta say is that I am TEAMTOMATO and TEAMBACON!!!
*I had the privilege of reading the arc before the release and I want to thank the authors for the honor.* This was my honest review that came from the bottom of my heart.
I loved every second of this gorgeous novel filled with shifters and faes. I am a sucker for paranormal and when we put the star crossed lovers trope, mixed with forbidden love trope, sign me up, please, as I need every second of it.
Dawn till Dusk is just the first book in a SAGA, you guys!! SO SO much is going to happen and I don't know if my heart can take the pain that I am anticipating.
Tarik and Reagan! I fell in love with these two from the first sight and page. These two are such good and pure souls, my heart aches for them and their story. Two broken souls coming together and making something more. AHHH YOU GOTTA MEET THEM. You gotta meet my brooding, sassy, silver-tongued Tarik with his fiery personality and shock of red hair (he has freckles, dammit) and my soft hearted, true, loyal, kind shifter babe Reagan. You gotta meet the wonderful cast of faes!!
This story has continuation and I am so so ready to have the second book in my hands like NOW.
All I gotta say is that I am TEAMTOMATO and TEAMBACON!!!
*I had the privilege of reading the arc before the release and I want to thank the authors for the honor.* This was my honest review that came from the bottom of my heart.
May 20, 2020
I received an eARC by the authors for an honest review.
First of all, I tend to be really skeptical about co-authored books but this one felt really natural as I read it. These ladies nailed it. Their characters' voices fit together seamlessly and were such a joy to read. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Or any book they're going to write together to be honest.
Now, about the story:
This book is amazing for everyone who loves fierce, sassy shifters, grumpy fae and a romance filled with angst and snarky banter. There's even a really unique twist to the shifter and fae that I absolutely loved. I mean...you'll find out soon enough. Also, fae weren't the race above everyone which was quite refreshing.
It was easy for me to relate to Tarik's snarkiness to hide all the anger inside him but also to Reagan's struggle between doing what is right and following the rules and expectations that were forced on her. I really felt for her. Reagan is such a lovely and caring person and Tarik has become one of my favorite mouthy angry beans. I love his comebacks. Yet it hurt to see both of them go through so many struggles.
Though, beside these two amazing protagonist, we also have this really bad guy. And whoa, he's EVIL. I usually root for a lot of villains and especially ones that are dragons but Mordecai made me want to punch him. I admit that I kinda liked him and tried to excuse his behavior up to around the middle of the book (because dragons are amazing and I love them) but then... Ugh, I guess these dragons are okay to be hated.
But aside from the MCs and the baddie, I loved, loved, loved the sidecharacters! Especially a certain bestie and certain little boy.
Anyway, I only had two small "problems".
The first was that in comparison to the fast paced and action packed beginning and the ending, the middle part seemed quite slow. (Or maybe that's my reading slump speaking.)Through, I still enjoyed reading it a lot thanks to the fun banter and relationship building aka. adorable and angsty moments.
The second was Reagan's shifted from? It threw me a little off at first since she shifts into a lion with a mane when I expected a lioness. But that was my bad. I know it is comes down to world building but it still left me wondering if there are only male shifted forms? (Am I allowed to say that or is someone going to behead me for it?) Though, then I read up on lionesses with manes and...they actually exist. So, after that I was fine with it. Honesty, it was just a "Huh, wait!"-moment. That's it. I'm merely being dramatic here.
Still, I found the story very intriguing and I NEED to know how it goes on. That ending! Luckily, I won't have to wait too long to see how it continues!
(Now excuse me while I go wait for the sequel. Also, have you seen those covers? GOOOORGEOUS!)
First of all, I tend to be really skeptical about co-authored books but this one felt really natural as I read it. These ladies nailed it. Their characters' voices fit together seamlessly and were such a joy to read. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Or any book they're going to write together to be honest.
Now, about the story:
This book is amazing for everyone who loves fierce, sassy shifters, grumpy fae and a romance filled with angst and snarky banter. There's even a really unique twist to the shifter and fae that I absolutely loved. I mean...you'll find out soon enough. Also, fae weren't the race above everyone which was quite refreshing.
It was easy for me to relate to Tarik's snarkiness to hide all the anger inside him but also to Reagan's struggle between doing what is right and following the rules and expectations that were forced on her. I really felt for her. Reagan is such a lovely and caring person and Tarik has become one of my favorite mouthy angry beans. I love his comebacks. Yet it hurt to see both of them go through so many struggles.
Though, beside these two amazing protagonist, we also have this really bad guy. And whoa, he's EVIL. I usually root for a lot of villains and especially ones that are dragons but Mordecai made me want to punch him. I admit that I kinda liked him and tried to excuse his behavior up to around the middle of the book (because dragons are amazing and I love them) but then... Ugh, I guess these dragons are okay to be hated.
But aside from the MCs and the baddie, I loved, loved, loved the sidecharacters! Especially a certain bestie and certain little boy.
Anyway, I only had two small "problems".
The first was that in comparison to the fast paced and action packed beginning and the ending, the middle part seemed quite slow. (Or maybe that's my reading slump speaking.)Through, I still enjoyed reading it a lot thanks to the fun banter and relationship building aka. adorable and angsty moments.
The second was Reagan's shifted from? It threw me a little off at first since she shifts into a lion with a mane when I expected a lioness. But that was my bad. I know it is comes down to world building but it still left me wondering if there are only male shifted forms? (Am I allowed to say that or is someone going to behead me for it?) Though, then I read up on lionesses with manes and...they actually exist. So, after that I was fine with it. Honesty, it was just a "Huh, wait!"-moment. That's it. I'm merely being dramatic here.
Still, I found the story very intriguing and I NEED to know how it goes on. That ending! Luckily, I won't have to wait too long to see how it continues!
(Now excuse me while I go wait for the sequel. Also, have you seen those covers? GOOOORGEOUS!)
May 16, 2020
I received an e-arc of this book from the authors for an honest review.
Dawn till Dusk is the perfect read for lovers of grumpy fae, sassy shifters and an entertaining romance filled with angst and dazzling banter.
Urban fantasy is a tricky genre for me. Despite being closer to what is “normal”, I have a hard time processing magic alongside cell phones and bikes. But with this book, I was immediately drawn into the world, and I quickly clicked with its characters. I found myself relating to Tarik’s need to snap in order to deal with the anger bottled up inside him, just as I could relate to Reagan’s sass and her inner struggle between what was expected of her and what she thought was right.
Other than two amazing protagonists, this book also gave me a truly wicked villain. There were moments where my dragon-loving heart wanted to somewhat protect these dragon shifters, trying against reason to find a way to redeem them in the face of the world. No such luck, I’m afraid. These dragons are mean and we don’t like them, but we definitely appreciate a good villain!
Co-authored books can be tricky. It’s hard to find the right balance between two distinct voices in order to create a seamless narration, but Becky and Tyffany won this bet! If I hadn’t know beforehand—having joined the Instagram cover reveal team—who was writing who, I never would have guessed! The writing was a well-crafted guide in the navigation of this story, and that helped the overall enjoyment all the more!
The only “flaw” was a somewhat slow middle that impacted the otherwise quick and high stakes pace of the plot, but there were many moments of relationship building between the protagonists in that part of the book that still made it enjoyable.
Now I’m left with the question: what comes next? All the plot twists and heart-thumping moments lead to a finale that leaves you begging for more! I cannot wait to see where this story is going!
Dawn till Dusk is the perfect read for lovers of grumpy fae, sassy shifters and an entertaining romance filled with angst and dazzling banter.
Urban fantasy is a tricky genre for me. Despite being closer to what is “normal”, I have a hard time processing magic alongside cell phones and bikes. But with this book, I was immediately drawn into the world, and I quickly clicked with its characters. I found myself relating to Tarik’s need to snap in order to deal with the anger bottled up inside him, just as I could relate to Reagan’s sass and her inner struggle between what was expected of her and what she thought was right.
Other than two amazing protagonists, this book also gave me a truly wicked villain. There were moments where my dragon-loving heart wanted to somewhat protect these dragon shifters, trying against reason to find a way to redeem them in the face of the world. No such luck, I’m afraid. These dragons are mean and we don’t like them, but we definitely appreciate a good villain!
Co-authored books can be tricky. It’s hard to find the right balance between two distinct voices in order to create a seamless narration, but Becky and Tyffany won this bet! If I hadn’t know beforehand—having joined the Instagram cover reveal team—who was writing who, I never would have guessed! The writing was a well-crafted guide in the navigation of this story, and that helped the overall enjoyment all the more!
The only “flaw” was a somewhat slow middle that impacted the otherwise quick and high stakes pace of the plot, but there were many moments of relationship building between the protagonists in that part of the book that still made it enjoyable.
Now I’m left with the question: what comes next? All the plot twists and heart-thumping moments lead to a finale that leaves you begging for more! I cannot wait to see where this story is going!
June 22, 2021
"She and I, we were a trainwreck waiting to happen. I needed to derail and journey on a different track. Preferably in the opposite direction. Because every time I saw her, my walls weakened."
I received an eARC for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Dawn 'till Dusk is a fast-paced story with an interesting plot that held my interest. The writing was really solid by both authors and the characters were complex and the setting was well developed. I enjoyed the two opposite bordering cities and type of segregation between fae and shifters and how that was examined throughout the book.
Note that this is a New Adult novel and not YA, as it deals with some gruesome and triggering topics, such as abuse in many forms: parental abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and also suicidal thoughts and child death.
This is called an urban fantasy but I disagree and would not exactly put it in that category personally. The story takes place not in our world but also not in a fantasy world like the medieval-inspired kind we are used to. There is modern technology but otherwise no relation to our world. As another reviewer aptly put, "a high fantasy modeled off modern times." However, I thought the world-building was strong so this is not a bad thing, just an expectations thing.
But as much as I loved Reagan, I couldn't understand her motivation behind wanting to help Tarik so badly. She is a strong woman with a position of authority who risks her own safety to help a self-destructive maniac who is a complete asshole to her so I just couldn't get behind the romance. If you like enemies to lovers, you would probably enjoy it more than I did.
As a mythology nerd, there were a few minor details that bothered me, such as Gaia coming from Greek mythology and the Fae coming from Celtic mythology yet Gaia seems to be the Fae's version of God. I expected the lore to be more accurate.
Overall a decent start to a series and I look forward to seeing what Becky and Tyffany do with the series moving forward!
I received an eARC for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Dawn 'till Dusk is a fast-paced story with an interesting plot that held my interest. The writing was really solid by both authors and the characters were complex and the setting was well developed. I enjoyed the two opposite bordering cities and type of segregation between fae and shifters and how that was examined throughout the book.
Note that this is a New Adult novel and not YA, as it deals with some gruesome and triggering topics, such as abuse in many forms: parental abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and also suicidal thoughts and child death.
This is called an urban fantasy but I disagree and would not exactly put it in that category personally. The story takes place not in our world but also not in a fantasy world like the medieval-inspired kind we are used to. There is modern technology but otherwise no relation to our world. As another reviewer aptly put, "a high fantasy modeled off modern times." However, I thought the world-building was strong so this is not a bad thing, just an expectations thing.
But as much as I loved Reagan, I couldn't understand her motivation behind wanting to help Tarik so badly. She is a strong woman with a position of authority who risks her own safety to help a self-destructive maniac who is a complete asshole to her so I just couldn't get behind the romance. If you like enemies to lovers, you would probably enjoy it more than I did.
As a mythology nerd, there were a few minor details that bothered me, such as Gaia coming from Greek mythology and the Fae coming from Celtic mythology yet Gaia seems to be the Fae's version of God. I expected the lore to be more accurate.
Overall a decent start to a series and I look forward to seeing what Becky and Tyffany do with the series moving forward!
April 19, 2020
Gripping and darkly beautiful, this
New Adult book is my favorite Urban Fantasy of the year.
Dawn till Dusk is a forbidden romance between an angry Fae, and a fiesty shifter. These two tortured souls clash together when Reagan, a shifter enforcer, helps Tarick, a Fae, who should be her enemy.
The worldbuilding in this book is on point. The main characters are fleshed out, beautiful and raw. The alternating point-of-views between the characters, and the authors, flow nicely. The romance is a slow burn despite the fast attraction, and had me rooting for the couple right in the beginning.
I found myself flipping pages as fast as possible to learn more about the world, the villains and even the side characters!
I feel like I can't express all my feelings in this small review about how much I loved this story.
I will end this review with saying that I am in love with Tarick. He is a damaged Fae, who is addicted to this world's equivalency of Fight Club, yet despite his history and pain, he some how has a very beautiful and deep heart. And Reagan, our other main character, is a passionate and determined soul who will do whatever she can to help those around her, despite the law and the threats that come her way. 5 Stars.
( I can't wait for more of the story. I look forward to this couple's romance really heating up, their world hopefully becoming a safer place, and the villains getting every evil thing coming to them...but I can tell we are in for one wild ride first.)
New Adult book is my favorite Urban Fantasy of the year.
Dawn till Dusk is a forbidden romance between an angry Fae, and a fiesty shifter. These two tortured souls clash together when Reagan, a shifter enforcer, helps Tarick, a Fae, who should be her enemy.
The worldbuilding in this book is on point. The main characters are fleshed out, beautiful and raw. The alternating point-of-views between the characters, and the authors, flow nicely. The romance is a slow burn despite the fast attraction, and had me rooting for the couple right in the beginning.
I found myself flipping pages as fast as possible to learn more about the world, the villains and even the side characters!
I feel like I can't express all my feelings in this small review about how much I loved this story.
I will end this review with saying that I am in love with Tarick. He is a damaged Fae, who is addicted to this world's equivalency of Fight Club, yet despite his history and pain, he some how has a very beautiful and deep heart. And Reagan, our other main character, is a passionate and determined soul who will do whatever she can to help those around her, despite the law and the threats that come her way. 5 Stars.
( I can't wait for more of the story. I look forward to this couple's romance really heating up, their world hopefully becoming a safer place, and the villains getting every evil thing coming to them...but I can tell we are in for one wild ride first.)
April 18, 2020
An urban fantasy with unique world building, nuanced characters, and a romance that I am 100% here for. There is some trigger warnings, and I admit that I skipped half a chapter because I'm very sensitive to child deaths in books (it's a mom thing), but that was only one small section. Can't wait to learn more about the mysteries of their world in book 2!
May 26, 2020
Ohhhmiiigod!!! What a book!! I really from the bottom of my heart enjoyed reading this beautiful book!!! Everything about it was ahhhh it’s just soo good!! Both authors did a wonderful job in creating this glorious book!!
And let me tell you (I’m not exaggerating) but the moment I read the first chapter I was hooked!! I mean the story line was really good!! The writing style was just perfect not the boring type!!
Ohhh and I loved both characters Tarik and Reagan!!! The fact that they both have their own tragic story and both are lost souls they still managed to find each other! I really enjoyed their moments, I felt happy, laughed and felt sad too I mean they’re both broken but still are holding up!!! 😭 they’re just beautiful!!!!
Ahhh I just can’t wait to get my hands on book 2!! I’m super excited for that!!!
[ I have received an E-ARC by the authors before the release date, and I’m thankful and honored that I got to read this book! My review is straight from my heart!]
And let me tell you (I’m not exaggerating) but the moment I read the first chapter I was hooked!! I mean the story line was really good!! The writing style was just perfect not the boring type!!
Ohhh and I loved both characters Tarik and Reagan!!! The fact that they both have their own tragic story and both are lost souls they still managed to find each other! I really enjoyed their moments, I felt happy, laughed and felt sad too I mean they’re both broken but still are holding up!!! 😭 they’re just beautiful!!!!
Ahhh I just can’t wait to get my hands on book 2!! I’m super excited for that!!!
[ I have received an E-ARC by the authors before the release date, and I’m thankful and honored that I got to read this book! My review is straight from my heart!]
May 25, 2020
I received a free eARC in exchange for an honest review from the authors.
"She and I, we were a train wreck waiting to happen."
In a tumultuous time like this, I cannot be more glad to have read this book! It's everything you want in an urban fantasy and then some.
The story follows Tarik (a Fae) and Reagan (a shifter) in a city that is run by shifters and where Fae are treated as lowly citizens; which honestly is a fresh change from all the fantasies where Fae are always potrayed as the elite race. Their heartbreaks, their past, their pain. Stakes are high as they get involved with each other and start to discover their city's secrets.
You can see the authors have poured their hearts into the characters and I cannot wait for this series to entirely release so I can see where it ends! ❤️⭐
"She and I, we were a train wreck waiting to happen."
In a tumultuous time like this, I cannot be more glad to have read this book! It's everything you want in an urban fantasy and then some.
The story follows Tarik (a Fae) and Reagan (a shifter) in a city that is run by shifters and where Fae are treated as lowly citizens; which honestly is a fresh change from all the fantasies where Fae are always potrayed as the elite race. Their heartbreaks, their past, their pain. Stakes are high as they get involved with each other and start to discover their city's secrets.
You can see the authors have poured their hearts into the characters and I cannot wait for this series to entirely release so I can see where it ends! ❤️⭐
May 12, 2020
I’m really excited that more and more Fae type creatures are moving beyond the traditional fantasy genre and more and more shifters are branching out from just the typical werewolf-like monsters. It’s a new era of Urban Fantasy that I am totally here for! And if that sounds like something you’d be down for, then I totally recommend “Dawn till Dusk”! It’s the story of Tarik and Reagan, two characters who are on opposite sides of the conflict between shifters and Fae. In this world, the Fae are not the ruling species, they aren’t the regal, almost snobbish, and all powerful spellcasters you usually see. In Nathra City, the shifters are in control, trapping the Fae in the city and forcing them to live in squalor. The shifters live in luxury, can have all the good jobs, and do mostly what they want, while the Fae struggle to keep their children alive. Tarik is a Fae, and Reagan is a shifter with a really awesome winged white lion form. Tarik hates all shifters with a passion, and Reagan feels for their plight, but is also the Night Enforcer, not just working for the dictator of the city—he’s also her “father”. You can see the tension, the conflict that will come from having two such characters in a world like this, and let me tell you, it’s DELICIOUS!
So let’s chat real quick about the world building and the differences between the species in this story vs. the ones you may be used to seeing. While the Fae still revere nature and what not, this isn’t a world without modern amenities. It’s more like Earth 2.0. Outside of the Fae and shifters, everything else feels like a normal city with its high rises and slums—characters smoke, have tattoos and piercings, drive motorcycles, work factory jobs, etc. Because that part of the world feels so familiar, the authors can spend more time on the uniqueness of their Fae and shifters, the restrictions the Fae face with being banned from releasing their wings, while shifters have no such issues, and there are shifters ranging from Reagan’s winged white lion, to dragons, multicolored rats, but also “normal” animals like coyotes or wolves. The diversity in the shifters was amazing, especially as you couldn’t always guess who would shift into what when the characters are first introduced. It was refreshing and made something that could otherwise have felt cliché, feel new and exciting.
I don’t often read co-authored books, usually the differences in voice and blending when one character is written by one author and the other by another can sometimes feel choppy to me, and brings me out of the flow of the story. No such issue here! Moynihan and Hackett’s writing voices and styles complement each other very well to where transitions between characters felt seamless and natural, and was a real treat to lose myself in! Tarik did take me awhile to warm up to though, his grumpiness and anger, while 10,000% justified, just rubbed me the wrong way, probably because his anger does not discriminate and you don’t immediately know why it’s present to begin with. But as he develops as a character, it was easier to like him and feel better about his growing attraction for Reagan. Reagan is a doll! A babe with tattoos and fun hair, piercings and a broken heart of gold. I loved her story and struggle so much! Usually when you have main characters with such robust and troubled backgrounds, other characters in the story suffer for it. Not the case here! Even the supporting cast felt well-rounded. No character is included without a purpose, which made everyone easy to remember and they are all teased just enough to where you can’t wait to see more of them in the next books—speaking from experience here.
I had the honor of beta reading for these talented authors in the early days of DtD and I loved revisiting their world and seeing what changed, what was beefed up, and the things I loved that made it past the final revisions. Even knowing where the story was going, I never was once bored with the reread. Sometimes the attraction the characters shared felt a bit forced, more based in the physical and fueled by guilt, but that may be part of the enemies-to-lovers cannon that I’m just not familiar with because I don’t read many books with that trope. Which is why I am giving this book 4.5 stars.
Also, be warned, the book gets heavy at times, especially around the characters personal trauma. It wasn’t so dark that I was ever really put off by it, and the swearing is very minimal, which makes it great for that line between YA and New Adult, which fits these authors incredibly well. The book ends on a gut punch of a cliffhanger too, so you’ll want the next book ASAP, thank goodness the sequel has already been announced and is hot on the heels of DtD! These authors tell beautiful stories, and I am so glad they were generous enough to give me an eARC for an honest review.
So let’s chat real quick about the world building and the differences between the species in this story vs. the ones you may be used to seeing. While the Fae still revere nature and what not, this isn’t a world without modern amenities. It’s more like Earth 2.0. Outside of the Fae and shifters, everything else feels like a normal city with its high rises and slums—characters smoke, have tattoos and piercings, drive motorcycles, work factory jobs, etc. Because that part of the world feels so familiar, the authors can spend more time on the uniqueness of their Fae and shifters, the restrictions the Fae face with being banned from releasing their wings, while shifters have no such issues, and there are shifters ranging from Reagan’s winged white lion, to dragons, multicolored rats, but also “normal” animals like coyotes or wolves. The diversity in the shifters was amazing, especially as you couldn’t always guess who would shift into what when the characters are first introduced. It was refreshing and made something that could otherwise have felt cliché, feel new and exciting.
I don’t often read co-authored books, usually the differences in voice and blending when one character is written by one author and the other by another can sometimes feel choppy to me, and brings me out of the flow of the story. No such issue here! Moynihan and Hackett’s writing voices and styles complement each other very well to where transitions between characters felt seamless and natural, and was a real treat to lose myself in! Tarik did take me awhile to warm up to though, his grumpiness and anger, while 10,000% justified, just rubbed me the wrong way, probably because his anger does not discriminate and you don’t immediately know why it’s present to begin with. But as he develops as a character, it was easier to like him and feel better about his growing attraction for Reagan. Reagan is a doll! A babe with tattoos and fun hair, piercings and a broken heart of gold. I loved her story and struggle so much! Usually when you have main characters with such robust and troubled backgrounds, other characters in the story suffer for it. Not the case here! Even the supporting cast felt well-rounded. No character is included without a purpose, which made everyone easy to remember and they are all teased just enough to where you can’t wait to see more of them in the next books—speaking from experience here.
I had the honor of beta reading for these talented authors in the early days of DtD and I loved revisiting their world and seeing what changed, what was beefed up, and the things I loved that made it past the final revisions. Even knowing where the story was going, I never was once bored with the reread. Sometimes the attraction the characters shared felt a bit forced, more based in the physical and fueled by guilt, but that may be part of the enemies-to-lovers cannon that I’m just not familiar with because I don’t read many books with that trope. Which is why I am giving this book 4.5 stars.
Also, be warned, the book gets heavy at times, especially around the characters personal trauma. It wasn’t so dark that I was ever really put off by it, and the swearing is very minimal, which makes it great for that line between YA and New Adult, which fits these authors incredibly well. The book ends on a gut punch of a cliffhanger too, so you’ll want the next book ASAP, thank goodness the sequel has already been announced and is hot on the heels of DtD! These authors tell beautiful stories, and I am so glad they were generous enough to give me an eARC for an honest review.
May 8, 2020
*I received a free ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review*
I have read the debut series of both of the authors for this book and loved them, so I am not surprised at all to say that I also adored this. I first read DTD a year ago as a beta reader for an early draft and flew through it. This book is a quick-paced, enemies-to-lovers urban fantasy that is truly so fun. Even on my second read with the ARC I found myself falling in love with the characters all over again.
One thing I really love about DTD is the world that these authors have created. Though it is considered urban fantasy, there is no relation to our own world (it's not like a secret society of magical creatures a la City of Bones) but rather a high fantasy modeled off modern times. Fae and shifters live together in a city with cell phones and bacon. The shifters are the privileged class of oppressors to the fae, who are relegated to crumbling ghettos. One of our protagonists, Reagan, is an Enforcer, who guards the border of these fae territories, while the other protagonist, Tarik, is a fae who is constantly toeing that line (or I should say, willfully ignoring it). Cue the enemies-to-lovers romantic plotline.
The cast of characters is also extremely well done. I adore the main characters Tarik and Reagan, even if Tarik's personality is a little grating to some; he's DAMAGED ok? The side characters are super fun (*whispers* in book 2 they get even better! shh), and I LOVE to hate these villains. There's enough humor, angst, and heartbreak to make this book incredibly fun from start to finish.
The trigger warnings are listed in the beginning of the book for anyone curious. Unlike these authors' previous works, this book is not YA. However, I think the book could definitely be accessible for younger readers who are okay with more new adult themes.
Overall, I'd recommend this book for anyone who likes heavy romance plotlines, strong characters, shifters & fae, and writing styles reminiscent of Sarah J Maas. This is not for you if you are expecting something really dark and heavy, lots of political intrigue, graphic violence or sex, or a slow-paced fantasy series with intricate worldbuilding.
GO FORTH AND EAT THIS BACON 🥓
I have read the debut series of both of the authors for this book and loved them, so I am not surprised at all to say that I also adored this. I first read DTD a year ago as a beta reader for an early draft and flew through it. This book is a quick-paced, enemies-to-lovers urban fantasy that is truly so fun. Even on my second read with the ARC I found myself falling in love with the characters all over again.
One thing I really love about DTD is the world that these authors have created. Though it is considered urban fantasy, there is no relation to our own world (it's not like a secret society of magical creatures a la City of Bones) but rather a high fantasy modeled off modern times. Fae and shifters live together in a city with cell phones and bacon. The shifters are the privileged class of oppressors to the fae, who are relegated to crumbling ghettos. One of our protagonists, Reagan, is an Enforcer, who guards the border of these fae territories, while the other protagonist, Tarik, is a fae who is constantly toeing that line (or I should say, willfully ignoring it). Cue the enemies-to-lovers romantic plotline.
The cast of characters is also extremely well done. I adore the main characters Tarik and Reagan, even if Tarik's personality is a little grating to some; he's DAMAGED ok? The side characters are super fun (*whispers* in book 2 they get even better! shh), and I LOVE to hate these villains. There's enough humor, angst, and heartbreak to make this book incredibly fun from start to finish.
The trigger warnings are listed in the beginning of the book for anyone curious. Unlike these authors' previous works, this book is not YA. However, I think the book could definitely be accessible for younger readers who are okay with more new adult themes.
Overall, I'd recommend this book for anyone who likes heavy romance plotlines, strong characters, shifters & fae, and writing styles reminiscent of Sarah J Maas. This is not for you if you are expecting something really dark and heavy, lots of political intrigue, graphic violence or sex, or a slow-paced fantasy series with intricate worldbuilding.
GO FORTH AND EAT THIS BACON 🥓
May 16, 2020
When the opportunity to participate in the cover reveal and read the eARC of this book presented itself, I could not refuse. Being a long-time follower of Tyffany Hackett and having read her other series, The Thanatos Trilogy, and having heard great things about Becky Moynihan’s The Elite Trials on Instagram, I was immediately excited. I’m happy to say that this book did not disappoint!
I know sometimes readers are hesitant to pick up a co-authored book, because not everyone can replicate the magic of Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman. Being part of a writing duo myself, I have no such hesitations, but if it can reassure some of the more doubtful readers, this co-authored project worked wonderfully. You cannot tell the difference between the chapters written by Tyffany and those written by Becky. Had I not known in advance who was who thanks to the email I received for the cover reveal details, I would have not been able to tell, and I say this as someone who has read one of the two authors.
What I immediately loved about this story was the world and the characters. Especially the characters. Tarik, our male protagonist and fae of the story, is the kind of tormented, self-destructive soul that I can’t help but want to love and save. Reagan, our female lead and shapeshifter, is the spitfire character that I immediately want in my cadre of fictional friends. Together, the two have a sizzling chemistry, and the ship set off with full winds in its sails from the start. I needed them together, I angsted, I squealed and huffed in frustration when they did not give me what they wanted, which is what characters like doing, isn’t it? It’s sweet torture. The villain of this story, Mordecai, and his awful little minion and son, Alec, were spectacularly cruel. I hate them, but I love it when villains are Villains with the capital letter.
This book immediately starts with a bang, and for a good part of the book, I was on the edge of my seat. There is a moment when things cool down a little, which is normal, but since I love fast-paced stories, it impacted my enjoyment of the book ever so slightly, which is why my rating isn’t a full five star. Yet. The ending was mind-blowing, and it has me itching to have the second immediately and learn what happens. It was brutal, it was shocking, it had a wonderful reveal I did not expect.
I highly recommend this book if you love fantasy, fae and shifters, broody falls for sunshine trope and enemies-to-lovers.
I know sometimes readers are hesitant to pick up a co-authored book, because not everyone can replicate the magic of Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman. Being part of a writing duo myself, I have no such hesitations, but if it can reassure some of the more doubtful readers, this co-authored project worked wonderfully. You cannot tell the difference between the chapters written by Tyffany and those written by Becky. Had I not known in advance who was who thanks to the email I received for the cover reveal details, I would have not been able to tell, and I say this as someone who has read one of the two authors.
What I immediately loved about this story was the world and the characters. Especially the characters. Tarik, our male protagonist and fae of the story, is the kind of tormented, self-destructive soul that I can’t help but want to love and save. Reagan, our female lead and shapeshifter, is the spitfire character that I immediately want in my cadre of fictional friends. Together, the two have a sizzling chemistry, and the ship set off with full winds in its sails from the start. I needed them together, I angsted, I squealed and huffed in frustration when they did not give me what they wanted, which is what characters like doing, isn’t it? It’s sweet torture. The villain of this story, Mordecai, and his awful little minion and son, Alec, were spectacularly cruel. I hate them, but I love it when villains are Villains with the capital letter.
This book immediately starts with a bang, and for a good part of the book, I was on the edge of my seat. There is a moment when things cool down a little, which is normal, but since I love fast-paced stories, it impacted my enjoyment of the book ever so slightly, which is why my rating isn’t a full five star. Yet. The ending was mind-blowing, and it has me itching to have the second immediately and learn what happens. It was brutal, it was shocking, it had a wonderful reveal I did not expect.
I highly recommend this book if you love fantasy, fae and shifters, broody falls for sunshine trope and enemies-to-lovers.
May 11, 2020
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
After reading Reactive by Becky Moynihan, I knew I needed this co-authored New Adult urban fantasy!
In Nathra City, the shifters rule with an iron fist. Mordecai the Great Dragon Shifter has conditioned Reagan to believe the Fae are inferior. As the city's Night Enforcer, it's her job to make sure the lines between shifter and Fae are intact. But Raegan has never quite believed the drivel about the Fae and she continuously does everything she can to help them. Tarik is full of anger, anger at the world, anger at the shifters who oppress him and mostly anger at himself for being so powerless. He channels his fury into fighting cage matches against shifters.
Tarik is constantly in trouble, usually from situations of his own creation. Reagan does her best to help him, but this hot-headed Fae has other ideas. Her decision to try and keep him alive may have deadly consequences. When Tarik is forced to take a job working for Mordecai, Reagan smells something fishy and she's determined to find Mordecai's true motives for forcing the Fae into the crystal mine.
I pretty much devoured this book. I read like 60% of it last night, because once this story starts, it doesn't stop. I loved the world of Nathra City. The dynamics of Fae vs Shifter were so interesting. I would love to know more about what it looked liked before Mordecai took power. I loved the pacing of this, there was such a good balance between action scenes and slower but tension filled scenes.
I will admit that I was kind of in love with Reagan before I even started the book. A badass lion shifter, with colorful tattoos, a lip ring and blue/black hair. Wow I am SWOONING. Reagan is the type of female MC that I love. Headstrong, a little punk, a little sassy and determined to do some good in the world. There were times that both Reagan or Tarik would try to run away from their feelings, so I was a little frustrated with them during those scenes, but in general I loved them!
Also, I am a sucker for arguing scenes in the dark at night and there was one of those. This enemies to lovers romance was perfect for me. I cannot wait to see what happens next! And I need more of Nevaeh.
After reading Reactive by Becky Moynihan, I knew I needed this co-authored New Adult urban fantasy!
In Nathra City, the shifters rule with an iron fist. Mordecai the Great Dragon Shifter has conditioned Reagan to believe the Fae are inferior. As the city's Night Enforcer, it's her job to make sure the lines between shifter and Fae are intact. But Raegan has never quite believed the drivel about the Fae and she continuously does everything she can to help them. Tarik is full of anger, anger at the world, anger at the shifters who oppress him and mostly anger at himself for being so powerless. He channels his fury into fighting cage matches against shifters.
Tarik is constantly in trouble, usually from situations of his own creation. Reagan does her best to help him, but this hot-headed Fae has other ideas. Her decision to try and keep him alive may have deadly consequences. When Tarik is forced to take a job working for Mordecai, Reagan smells something fishy and she's determined to find Mordecai's true motives for forcing the Fae into the crystal mine.
I pretty much devoured this book. I read like 60% of it last night, because once this story starts, it doesn't stop. I loved the world of Nathra City. The dynamics of Fae vs Shifter were so interesting. I would love to know more about what it looked liked before Mordecai took power. I loved the pacing of this, there was such a good balance between action scenes and slower but tension filled scenes.
I will admit that I was kind of in love with Reagan before I even started the book. A badass lion shifter, with colorful tattoos, a lip ring and blue/black hair. Wow I am SWOONING. Reagan is the type of female MC that I love. Headstrong, a little punk, a little sassy and determined to do some good in the world. There were times that both Reagan or Tarik would try to run away from their feelings, so I was a little frustrated with them during those scenes, but in general I loved them!
Also, I am a sucker for arguing scenes in the dark at night and there was one of those. This enemies to lovers romance was perfect for me. I cannot wait to see what happens next! And I need more of Nevaeh.
November 22, 2021
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dawn Till Dusk is a New Adult Urban Fantasy Romance novel, book 1 in the series.
Also, I thought I should let you know that Urban Fantasy is a pretty hard genre for me to get into. Now that that’s said, let’s get to this review.
Book Cover: 4* - Now, I’m not a big fan of photo stock book covers for a few reasons, but after learning that one of the authors did it herself, I thought it actually came out really nice. The characters on the cover for the most part look like how they are described in the book. Plus it’s purple, I love purple lol.
Summary/Tagline: 3* - It’s good. It got me curious enough to want to know what the story entails, but knowing that this is a romance story too, I assumed that both Reagan and Tarik would most definitely end up together, how? Probably something bad would bring the two together, knowing the authors lol. I will also make sure not to reveal any spoilers in this review.
Characters: 3* - We follow two characters in this story. Reagan, a female shifter that can turn into a winged white lion, and Tarik, a male fae who is heavily brooding, angry, and knows magic(trigger warning for suicide attempts and thoughts). Either character is written by each of the authors respectfully(I’ll get into this more in the story section). Out of the two characters, I connected to Reagan a hell of a lot faster than I did Tarik. Reagan is spunky, strong, caring, and has quite the patience to put up with Tarik for the beginning part of the book. Tarik . . . was unfortunately a pretty predictable character. I think I connected with him by the end, but I wasn’t sure, and I did predict his tragic backstory when he brought it up cryptically in a way in either chapter 1 or 2. When his past does reveal itself, showing why he’s so angry and wanting death so badly, I actually blurted out, “Yeah I called it.” Speaking of tragic pasts, Reagan’s backstory, or I guess her life situation with her step family, I’m sure this was a coincidence, but her abusive relationship with Reagan’s stepfather Mordecai(the antagonist of the book) is pretty similar to a character written by one of the authors from another book series, and no it wasn’t the one that wrote Reagan’s chapters. Like I said, I’m sure it was a coincidence. Now speaking of Reagan’s step family. Mordecai and Alec, oooooh trigger warning for abuse(physical and emotional), torture, and assault(physical and sexual). Mordecai is the worst, even though he’s a bit of a little b**** and Alec is just a nasty creep. There are a few supporting characters throughout this book, some I like, a few I rolled my eyes in annoyance, and others I feel like weren’t around enough to warrant much opinions on just yet.
World Building: 2* - This section is normally why I have trouble with this genre. Once I start asking questions, and I mean a lot of questions, if they don’t get answered by the end, I unfortunately get upset/disappointed, as I often see the potential/opportunity to just dive into a world where our modern world is combined with the fantastical, but it doesn’t really get utilized.
So first off, I’m so used to urban fantasy stories where faes, elves, vampires, and/or other pretty fantasy races are the ones on top and/or run an entire city and the other races such as werewolves, shifters, and/or other creatures that involve turning into some sort of beast/monster, are beneath them as guards, slaves, etc. Humans are either stuck in the middle of them or are in the same area as werewolves and shifters. This book has decided to swap those roles which I liked, making shifters on top and faes are pretty much treated as third class citizens with terrible living conditions.
Secondly, I very much enjoyed the brief history I got about Nathra city and the fae shifter war. There’s even a brief explanation stating that the humans, during the civil war, were “allowed” to leave Nathra city to go to other places. So that was some neat info . . .
Now here is where I struggled with the book. I have NO idea where Nathra city is. Is it in the US? Canada? UK? Somewhere where the English language is dominant? I don’t know. There’s not even a mention of whatever country's government that’s around, as the world knows faes and shifters exist, but it seems like Nathra city is just closed off from the world? I was struggling to figure this out as I don’t think any government would be okay with a mass of people leaving one city and going to another. I also have no idea of the year this story is taking place. I know it’s urban fantasy, but it also sounds like there are some futuristic elements in this city? I’m still trying to figure this out and understand that part as well.
Now when it comes to technology in this book, it gets a mention or two in the first half of the book but we never hear of it again lol. Cellphones, I’m pretty sure Reagan has one as she uses it to listen to music when she sleeps, but like I said, a few mentions and done. There is a computer that gets used to figure something out about what her step father plans to do to some faes, only a few mentions, and that’s it. There was even a pretty nifty tablet that got used, and again, no more use after that. I just find it funny that a staple with urban fantasy stories is the lack of technology being used or even seen, I do find this odd . . . a lot. I understand why faes wouldn’t have technology, they aren’t allowed to work so they don’t even have much money to buy necessities . . . in fact they aren’t even allowed to buy food as many stores have closed themselves off to faes. So there really isn’t much they can do in Nathra city. They also can’t just leave as they aren’t allowed and are killed if they try to flee. So Nathra city is both a home to shifters that live in a more urban setting while faes are imprisoned and live in the outskirts of ruined buildings being covered in nature.
Speaking of faes and shifters, I . . . honestly don’t really know much about them other than a few things that are considered a fae THING and a shifter THING. This irked me a bit as growing up I kept hearing, “Oh it’s just a Spanish thing” or a whatever insert race here thing as more of an assumption of what my or any other race does as a whole. It wasn't really a pleasant read to just see a quality from someone as just being, well the whole species does it . . . Really? The ENTIRE race does this THING? For example, Shifters: They can turn into animals, they wear less clothing to be able to easily turn with no restrictions, they have tattoos on their bodies, they have piercings, they have dyed colored hair, they don’t mind being naked or showing so much skin, they don’t like nature, and they prefer meat over vegetables. Faes: They have feathered wings(are kept hidden because of a law placed upon them) and pointed ears, they can do magic(but can’t do them because of a law placed on them. Plus, the magic system is very basic. The Fae's use some magic and get tired from it. So it looks like magic takes from their energy. There is an object that seems to amplify their magic capabilities, but it's story related, and therefore spoilery.), they love nature, they are vegetarians/vegans(I’m not sure, I just know that they are apparently not supposed to eat meat because reasons), they are more conservative with clothing as they are uncomfortable with nakedness and too much skin showing, they worship Gaia? But they use the term hell? . . . That’s it. I’m not saying I need an in depth explanation about religion, government, or whatever, but a sentence here or there or a paragraph going a little more into THIS world would have been enough to sedate my curiosity. I wouldn’t have much of a problem with such little information, but most of these THINGS meant for each race never came with an explanation as to why, and for every character shown, they pretty much share all these features for their respective species. There isn’t a fae that doesn’t mind skin or wears less clothing, so far. There is also no shifter that isn’t a fan of tattoos and also doesn’t mind wearing more clothes, so far. It just didn’t feel like there was any individuality per character. Neveah is Reagan’s best friend, but the only difference in their appearance is their skin and eye color, hair dye color, types of tattoos, and their choice of shoes. Other than that, they wear the same types of clothing, down to the fishnet stockings. As for fae characters, every one of them has expressed discomfort when Reagan walks around naked after being in her lion form for a while. Not to mention, EVERYONE is beautiful. Fae's can barely afford food, but the guys are ripped as f*** and the women are dropped dead gorgeous . . . I'm going to just chuck this up as a Romance genre thing.
Speaking of Reagan’s lion form, I DO NOT understand why a FEMALE shifter turns into a MALE lion. Her form is described with a mane. As soon as that popped in, I was wondering if other shifters can turn into the opposite gender of the animal. Problem is, there aren’t many animals out there that have a clear male and female distinction to my knowledge, but then a lion shifter shows up near the end of the book, and instead of using the term it, as there is no way Reagan would know what gender the shifter is, she instead uses the pronoun HE. So, I am seriously asking, why is Reagan the only female shifter so far that can turn into a male lion and no others? It can’t be because she can turn into a mythical like creature with wings as she isn’t the only one. There are dragons, a giant wolf that can breathe fire, and a giant spider. So mysticism isn’t the answer here.
I also became really uncomfortable when there were two instances in this book that a fae, who’s supposed to not eat meat . . . because reasons, are force fed bacon, like it, and are now omnivores like it was no big deal. I know it was meant to be “funny,” but I was just uncomfortable with those scenes as I thought there was some significance to faes not wanting to eat animals, but it looks like there was never really a reason except for tradition? My husband also thinks I might be over thinking those scenes, but I’m not so sure anymore . . . Ok this section went on longer than I thought, so I will just end it here.
Story: 3* - You know what, I’m actually pretty surprised how separate the romance is from the story's plot. There is no, “Oh I know things are happening around us and we could die, but we need to talk about our feelings NOW!” That gets really annoying, really fast in romance stories, but this story remains focused which was nice. When it comes to the action scenes, that’s where the character's focus on to survive fights and challenges they didn't expect. Yes there are a few moments where one of the main characters saves the other, but it only happens a few times throughout the book, and when it comes to down time, that is when we focus on more character/story driven moments. I can also tell the difference between one author’s writing style over the other author, but I thought their style meshed pretty well together. It wasn’t super obvious nor distracting. Now, there is one trope that I didn’t really see played out in the manner that it is meant for and that is the enemies/hate to lovers trope. The hatred felt pretty one sighted as only Tarik didn’t like shifters while Reagan wanted to help faes. I only see hatred more coming from shifters to faes than the other way around, or even equal amounts, but I didn’t see that trope utilized much, if at all. Not to mention Tarik gets over his hatred of shifters pretty fast because of Reagan, so I REALLY didn't get this hatred/enemies to lovers trope in this book. The reason this story gets three stars and not more is mainly because the story was good, it just didn’t do much more for me. There was a twist near the end that involved Reagan which I can’t wait for these two authors to explore in future books, but that’s it. Everything else was pretty predictable.
Over All: 3.5* - This took me a while to figure out, but in my honest opinion, this story was a good one, unfortunately, I liked one main character way more than the other and because there was so little world information in this story, it distracted me quite a bit. I had too many questions left unanswered by the end and I found many parts of this story predictable, but entertaining. I do look forward to reading more of this story, and I will recommend this story for those who want a fun, simple fantasy story with a nice, slow burn romance. I will probably make this 4 stars because half stars are not a thing apparently lol, but the story was interesting enough to round up to 4 stars instead of just an average 3 stars.
Dawn Till Dusk is a New Adult Urban Fantasy Romance novel, book 1 in the series.
Also, I thought I should let you know that Urban Fantasy is a pretty hard genre for me to get into. Now that that’s said, let’s get to this review.
Book Cover: 4* - Now, I’m not a big fan of photo stock book covers for a few reasons, but after learning that one of the authors did it herself, I thought it actually came out really nice. The characters on the cover for the most part look like how they are described in the book. Plus it’s purple, I love purple lol.
Summary/Tagline: 3* - It’s good. It got me curious enough to want to know what the story entails, but knowing that this is a romance story too, I assumed that both Reagan and Tarik would most definitely end up together, how? Probably something bad would bring the two together, knowing the authors lol. I will also make sure not to reveal any spoilers in this review.
Characters: 3* - We follow two characters in this story. Reagan, a female shifter that can turn into a winged white lion, and Tarik, a male fae who is heavily brooding, angry, and knows magic(trigger warning for suicide attempts and thoughts). Either character is written by each of the authors respectfully(I’ll get into this more in the story section). Out of the two characters, I connected to Reagan a hell of a lot faster than I did Tarik. Reagan is spunky, strong, caring, and has quite the patience to put up with Tarik for the beginning part of the book. Tarik . . . was unfortunately a pretty predictable character. I think I connected with him by the end, but I wasn’t sure, and I did predict his tragic backstory when he brought it up cryptically in a way in either chapter 1 or 2. When his past does reveal itself, showing why he’s so angry and wanting death so badly, I actually blurted out, “Yeah I called it.” Speaking of tragic pasts, Reagan’s backstory, or I guess her life situation with her step family, I’m sure this was a coincidence, but her abusive relationship with Reagan’s stepfather Mordecai(the antagonist of the book) is pretty similar to a character written by one of the authors from another book series, and no it wasn’t the one that wrote Reagan’s chapters. Like I said, I’m sure it was a coincidence. Now speaking of Reagan’s step family. Mordecai and Alec, oooooh trigger warning for abuse(physical and emotional), torture, and assault(physical and sexual). Mordecai is the worst, even though he’s a bit of a little b**** and Alec is just a nasty creep. There are a few supporting characters throughout this book, some I like, a few I rolled my eyes in annoyance, and others I feel like weren’t around enough to warrant much opinions on just yet.
World Building: 2* - This section is normally why I have trouble with this genre. Once I start asking questions, and I mean a lot of questions, if they don’t get answered by the end, I unfortunately get upset/disappointed, as I often see the potential/opportunity to just dive into a world where our modern world is combined with the fantastical, but it doesn’t really get utilized.
So first off, I’m so used to urban fantasy stories where faes, elves, vampires, and/or other pretty fantasy races are the ones on top and/or run an entire city and the other races such as werewolves, shifters, and/or other creatures that involve turning into some sort of beast/monster, are beneath them as guards, slaves, etc. Humans are either stuck in the middle of them or are in the same area as werewolves and shifters. This book has decided to swap those roles which I liked, making shifters on top and faes are pretty much treated as third class citizens with terrible living conditions.
Secondly, I very much enjoyed the brief history I got about Nathra city and the fae shifter war. There’s even a brief explanation stating that the humans, during the civil war, were “allowed” to leave Nathra city to go to other places. So that was some neat info . . .
Now here is where I struggled with the book. I have NO idea where Nathra city is. Is it in the US? Canada? UK? Somewhere where the English language is dominant? I don’t know. There’s not even a mention of whatever country's government that’s around, as the world knows faes and shifters exist, but it seems like Nathra city is just closed off from the world? I was struggling to figure this out as I don’t think any government would be okay with a mass of people leaving one city and going to another. I also have no idea of the year this story is taking place. I know it’s urban fantasy, but it also sounds like there are some futuristic elements in this city? I’m still trying to figure this out and understand that part as well.
Now when it comes to technology in this book, it gets a mention or two in the first half of the book but we never hear of it again lol. Cellphones, I’m pretty sure Reagan has one as she uses it to listen to music when she sleeps, but like I said, a few mentions and done. There is a computer that gets used to figure something out about what her step father plans to do to some faes, only a few mentions, and that’s it. There was even a pretty nifty tablet that got used, and again, no more use after that. I just find it funny that a staple with urban fantasy stories is the lack of technology being used or even seen, I do find this odd . . . a lot. I understand why faes wouldn’t have technology, they aren’t allowed to work so they don’t even have much money to buy necessities . . . in fact they aren’t even allowed to buy food as many stores have closed themselves off to faes. So there really isn’t much they can do in Nathra city. They also can’t just leave as they aren’t allowed and are killed if they try to flee. So Nathra city is both a home to shifters that live in a more urban setting while faes are imprisoned and live in the outskirts of ruined buildings being covered in nature.
Speaking of faes and shifters, I . . . honestly don’t really know much about them other than a few things that are considered a fae THING and a shifter THING. This irked me a bit as growing up I kept hearing, “Oh it’s just a Spanish thing” or a whatever insert race here thing as more of an assumption of what my or any other race does as a whole. It wasn't really a pleasant read to just see a quality from someone as just being, well the whole species does it . . . Really? The ENTIRE race does this THING? For example, Shifters: They can turn into animals, they wear less clothing to be able to easily turn with no restrictions, they have tattoos on their bodies, they have piercings, they have dyed colored hair, they don’t mind being naked or showing so much skin, they don’t like nature, and they prefer meat over vegetables. Faes: They have feathered wings(are kept hidden because of a law placed upon them) and pointed ears, they can do magic(but can’t do them because of a law placed on them. Plus, the magic system is very basic. The Fae's use some magic and get tired from it. So it looks like magic takes from their energy. There is an object that seems to amplify their magic capabilities, but it's story related, and therefore spoilery.), they love nature, they are vegetarians/vegans(I’m not sure, I just know that they are apparently not supposed to eat meat because reasons), they are more conservative with clothing as they are uncomfortable with nakedness and too much skin showing, they worship Gaia? But they use the term hell? . . . That’s it. I’m not saying I need an in depth explanation about religion, government, or whatever, but a sentence here or there or a paragraph going a little more into THIS world would have been enough to sedate my curiosity. I wouldn’t have much of a problem with such little information, but most of these THINGS meant for each race never came with an explanation as to why, and for every character shown, they pretty much share all these features for their respective species. There isn’t a fae that doesn’t mind skin or wears less clothing, so far. There is also no shifter that isn’t a fan of tattoos and also doesn’t mind wearing more clothes, so far. It just didn’t feel like there was any individuality per character. Neveah is Reagan’s best friend, but the only difference in their appearance is their skin and eye color, hair dye color, types of tattoos, and their choice of shoes. Other than that, they wear the same types of clothing, down to the fishnet stockings. As for fae characters, every one of them has expressed discomfort when Reagan walks around naked after being in her lion form for a while. Not to mention, EVERYONE is beautiful. Fae's can barely afford food, but the guys are ripped as f*** and the women are dropped dead gorgeous . . . I'm going to just chuck this up as a Romance genre thing.
Speaking of Reagan’s lion form, I DO NOT understand why a FEMALE shifter turns into a MALE lion. Her form is described with a mane. As soon as that popped in, I was wondering if other shifters can turn into the opposite gender of the animal. Problem is, there aren’t many animals out there that have a clear male and female distinction to my knowledge, but then a lion shifter shows up near the end of the book, and instead of using the term it, as there is no way Reagan would know what gender the shifter is, she instead uses the pronoun HE. So, I am seriously asking, why is Reagan the only female shifter so far that can turn into a male lion and no others? It can’t be because she can turn into a mythical like creature with wings as she isn’t the only one. There are dragons, a giant wolf that can breathe fire, and a giant spider. So mysticism isn’t the answer here.
I also became really uncomfortable when there were two instances in this book that a fae, who’s supposed to not eat meat . . . because reasons, are force fed bacon, like it, and are now omnivores like it was no big deal. I know it was meant to be “funny,” but I was just uncomfortable with those scenes as I thought there was some significance to faes not wanting to eat animals, but it looks like there was never really a reason except for tradition? My husband also thinks I might be over thinking those scenes, but I’m not so sure anymore . . . Ok this section went on longer than I thought, so I will just end it here.
Story: 3* - You know what, I’m actually pretty surprised how separate the romance is from the story's plot. There is no, “Oh I know things are happening around us and we could die, but we need to talk about our feelings NOW!” That gets really annoying, really fast in romance stories, but this story remains focused which was nice. When it comes to the action scenes, that’s where the character's focus on to survive fights and challenges they didn't expect. Yes there are a few moments where one of the main characters saves the other, but it only happens a few times throughout the book, and when it comes to down time, that is when we focus on more character/story driven moments. I can also tell the difference between one author’s writing style over the other author, but I thought their style meshed pretty well together. It wasn’t super obvious nor distracting. Now, there is one trope that I didn’t really see played out in the manner that it is meant for and that is the enemies/hate to lovers trope. The hatred felt pretty one sighted as only Tarik didn’t like shifters while Reagan wanted to help faes. I only see hatred more coming from shifters to faes than the other way around, or even equal amounts, but I didn’t see that trope utilized much, if at all. Not to mention Tarik gets over his hatred of shifters pretty fast because of Reagan, so I REALLY didn't get this hatred/enemies to lovers trope in this book. The reason this story gets three stars and not more is mainly because the story was good, it just didn’t do much more for me. There was a twist near the end that involved Reagan which I can’t wait for these two authors to explore in future books, but that’s it. Everything else was pretty predictable.
Over All: 3.5* - This took me a while to figure out, but in my honest opinion, this story was a good one, unfortunately, I liked one main character way more than the other and because there was so little world information in this story, it distracted me quite a bit. I had too many questions left unanswered by the end and I found many parts of this story predictable, but entertaining. I do look forward to reading more of this story, and I will recommend this story for those who want a fun, simple fantasy story with a nice, slow burn romance. I will probably make this 4 stars because half stars are not a thing apparently lol, but the story was interesting enough to round up to 4 stars instead of just an average 3 stars.
April 28, 2020
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
*Received ARC* **I also did wait about a bit before writing my review to collect my thoughts and BECAUSE OF THAT ENDING**
"Right then and there, I knew I was going to do something incredibly stupid. Probably the dumbest thing I'd ever done in all twenty-three years of my life." -ok but me too
The politics of this world are so refreshing and intriguing! I rarely read books where the relationships between Fae and Shifter are how they were in this book. Shifters run the city while the fae are treated like garbage. Don't get me wrong, I love the typical Fae are all-powerful books, but this twist was just perfect for the world!
Reagan, the Night Enforcer of the city is determined to help out Faes at the risk of her own safety. I honestly loved her POVs so much because she was so brave and kind. She hurt when others hurt. I hurt when she hurt. I got so attached to Reagan that when the book ended I kept turning the page for more Reagan
I will admit that at first, I really didn't like Tarik. I felt for his tragic story and his troubles but I just didn't like him. My feelings toward him did slowly change throughout the book until I completely fell for the forbidden romance between him and Reagan (take a shot every time I say 'Reagan" lol)
The world-building was amazing! While I love me some info-dumping sometimes, there wasn't any at all. Everything was explained at the perfect time, I felt like I was actually in the world. The details and descriptions were so clear, I can't even. It felt like the world-building was so carefully planned out and precise.
The writing was exquisite! There were so many beautiful quotes I highlighted that I started making room in my budget to buy myself a physical copy because I NEED the PB so I can tab it up! I'm definitely a crier when reading books and this book absolutely made me tear up and cry!
"You're not okay...And you're not hurting me. You're saving me. You're saving me from myself, and...please don't leave."
I need book 2 ASAP! I'm ready for what happens next!!
The reasons why I didn't give it 5 stars are because 1) I RARELY give the first book in a series 5 stars, maybe on a reread and 2) I, unfortunately, got sucked into a reading slump (only my first of the month) and for the few chapters that I read during my slump, my enjoyment of the book went down just a small fraction
*Received ARC* **I also did wait about a bit before writing my review to collect my thoughts and BECAUSE OF THAT ENDING**
"Right then and there, I knew I was going to do something incredibly stupid. Probably the dumbest thing I'd ever done in all twenty-three years of my life." -ok but me too
The politics of this world are so refreshing and intriguing! I rarely read books where the relationships between Fae and Shifter are how they were in this book. Shifters run the city while the fae are treated like garbage. Don't get me wrong, I love the typical Fae are all-powerful books, but this twist was just perfect for the world!
Reagan, the Night Enforcer of the city is determined to help out Faes at the risk of her own safety. I honestly loved her POVs so much because she was so brave and kind. She hurt when others hurt. I hurt when she hurt. I got so attached to Reagan that when the book ended I kept turning the page for more Reagan
I will admit that at first, I really didn't like Tarik. I felt for his tragic story and his troubles but I just didn't like him. My feelings toward him did slowly change throughout the book until I completely fell for the forbidden romance between him and Reagan (take a shot every time I say 'Reagan" lol)
The world-building was amazing! While I love me some info-dumping sometimes, there wasn't any at all. Everything was explained at the perfect time, I felt like I was actually in the world. The details and descriptions were so clear, I can't even. It felt like the world-building was so carefully planned out and precise.
The writing was exquisite! There were so many beautiful quotes I highlighted that I started making room in my budget to buy myself a physical copy because I NEED the PB so I can tab it up! I'm definitely a crier when reading books and this book absolutely made me tear up and cry!
"You're not okay...And you're not hurting me. You're saving me. You're saving me from myself, and...please don't leave."
I need book 2 ASAP! I'm ready for what happens next!!
The reasons why I didn't give it 5 stars are because 1) I RARELY give the first book in a series 5 stars, maybe on a reread and 2) I, unfortunately, got sucked into a reading slump (only my first of the month) and for the few chapters that I read during my slump, my enjoyment of the book went down just a small fraction
May 1, 2020
It’s an amazing book. The word buildup and the plot twist 😍I loved every bit of it. Becky never fails to amaze 🤩 I’m eagerly waiting for the second book. #teamtarik ❤️
November 6, 2021
A fun start to what I think will be a great series! I'm a fan of the way Hackett and Moynihan write together. The characters are complex and endearing and the story is entertaining and exciting with great pacing. It's got a perfect balance between the story and the romance, they intertwine just right and keep the reader rooting for Reagan and Tarik. I'm looking forward to the next book/s in the series!
August 10, 2020
"Sometimes, evil wins the day."
Note: I received an ARC for a honest review. For this, I am very grateful to Becky Moynihan and Tyffany Hackett.
"If she's a white angel, I'm a black demon waiting to drag her down to hell."
So, here it is. Reading 'Dawn Till Dusk' was pretty much an emotional roller coaster ride. Becky and Tyffany are amazing authors who deserve to shine throughout their fantasy books. Not only these ladies are talented, they're kind and really sweet.
I going to tell you a quick summary of what this whirlwind was about, and proceed to things which I liked and which I do not. 'Dawn Till Dusk' is a NA Urban Fantasy book that follows a journey centered around a Shifter and Night Enforcer Reagan and hot-headed Fae Tarik, in dragon-ruled Nathra City.
Things I liked:
1) Character Development
In a story, I believe likeable characters are important--mainly characters that readers love and care for, or feel a connection between themselves and the characters, be it the character itself that readers are being reflected on or the feels to be the character's friend who tag along the journey, characters ARE IMPORTANT. 'Dawn Till Dusk' supplies with strong and memorable characters that you can't help but fall in love with. When people say strong, they get confused with mean and annoying. Not all strong characters have to be that. I think being strong focuses on mental-ability strong, but they have insecurities and flaws too. Becky and Tyffany have make sure of that. These two are so realistic that you will certainly see yourself being reflected on, whether you're a new adult or even still a teen(like me).
2) World Building
'Dawn Till Dusk' world-building is spectacular. Nathra City is a city both wonderful in some ways and also horrible to live in. It's great to know that the world keeps getting bigger with new places. Their world is perfectly planned and laid out so carefully you'd transfer into that world the moment you step on the adventure.
3) Writing style and Description
I know writing styles are hard to manage when you're co-writing, but never fear, Becky and Tyffany have got it covered. Their writing style and description is engrossing and fun to read. The description is perfect, vivid and imaginative, without over-describing. And we still get to see the main character's thoughts and emotions. And God, how I love the dialogues and quotes! They're AMAZING!!!
4)Plot
Not like many fantasy books, this doesn't follow the boring rules. 'Dawn Till Dusk' has a unique plot that battles against the villain as well as their insecurities and past. What's more is that the plot keeps expanding and getting complex! And the twists!
5) Book Cover
I know that this is necessary and really not my place to say anything about the cover but, let's take this moment to appreciate the cover. I just LOVE it!!! You say don't judge a book by its cover but really, this book is as awesome as the cover is, maybe even more because we actually get to read it. I JUST CAN'T TAKE MY EYES OFF IT!!!
Things I didn't like:
1) Ending
I'm not complaining. I'm not saying I hated how things turns out or didn't like what happens. I'm saying I'm not entirely satisfied of the ending. Let's be honest. Nobody likes to be sad or wants to cry over a character whom they love so much. You can say that I cried, a lot, when the books ends with a gut-wrenching feeling in my chest. But, the book doesn't ends here. There's more to this trilogy. We'll see.
2) Romance
Okay, so this isn't necessary, but I'd like to give my opinion on this. Normally, I love enemies-to-lovers scenes. But, I feel like Reagan was already a teeny tiny part attracted to Tarik before the start of the series. Maybe it's my paranoid imagination or maybe she reallyy is. Who knows? Only Becky and Tyffany does. More to add, I would really love it if you write a past love story about Tarika and *coughs* you-know-who in the future. Anyway, the romance isn't a serious case, but, I'm a paranoid who really really wants to see Reagan and Tarik together. And the good thing is, we will! I'm not sure for their relationship but I'm sure that the story of Reagan and Tarik will continue. I'm definitely reading them, and I bet you'll enjoy them as I did!
5 OUT OF 5 STARS, according to Goodreads criteria
Infinite amount of stars and love, according to my criteria
-Celia
"Destruction follows me wherever I go."
Join Reagan and Tarik's journey in this page-turning and thrilling book now!
Note: I received an ARC for a honest review. For this, I am very grateful to Becky Moynihan and Tyffany Hackett.
"If she's a white angel, I'm a black demon waiting to drag her down to hell."
So, here it is. Reading 'Dawn Till Dusk' was pretty much an emotional roller coaster ride. Becky and Tyffany are amazing authors who deserve to shine throughout their fantasy books. Not only these ladies are talented, they're kind and really sweet.
I going to tell you a quick summary of what this whirlwind was about, and proceed to things which I liked and which I do not. 'Dawn Till Dusk' is a NA Urban Fantasy book that follows a journey centered around a Shifter and Night Enforcer Reagan and hot-headed Fae Tarik, in dragon-ruled Nathra City.
Things I liked:
1) Character Development
In a story, I believe likeable characters are important--mainly characters that readers love and care for, or feel a connection between themselves and the characters, be it the character itself that readers are being reflected on or the feels to be the character's friend who tag along the journey, characters ARE IMPORTANT. 'Dawn Till Dusk' supplies with strong and memorable characters that you can't help but fall in love with. When people say strong, they get confused with mean and annoying. Not all strong characters have to be that. I think being strong focuses on mental-ability strong, but they have insecurities and flaws too. Becky and Tyffany have make sure of that. These two are so realistic that you will certainly see yourself being reflected on, whether you're a new adult or even still a teen(like me).
2) World Building
'Dawn Till Dusk' world-building is spectacular. Nathra City is a city both wonderful in some ways and also horrible to live in. It's great to know that the world keeps getting bigger with new places. Their world is perfectly planned and laid out so carefully you'd transfer into that world the moment you step on the adventure.
3) Writing style and Description
I know writing styles are hard to manage when you're co-writing, but never fear, Becky and Tyffany have got it covered. Their writing style and description is engrossing and fun to read. The description is perfect, vivid and imaginative, without over-describing. And we still get to see the main character's thoughts and emotions. And God, how I love the dialogues and quotes! They're AMAZING!!!
4)Plot
Not like many fantasy books, this doesn't follow the boring rules. 'Dawn Till Dusk' has a unique plot that battles against the villain as well as their insecurities and past. What's more is that the plot keeps expanding and getting complex! And the twists!
5) Book Cover
I know that this is necessary and really not my place to say anything about the cover but, let's take this moment to appreciate the cover. I just LOVE it!!! You say don't judge a book by its cover but really, this book is as awesome as the cover is, maybe even more because we actually get to read it. I JUST CAN'T TAKE MY EYES OFF IT!!!
Things I didn't like:
1) Ending
I'm not complaining. I'm not saying I hated how things turns out or didn't like what happens. I'm saying I'm not entirely satisfied of the ending. Let's be honest. Nobody likes to be sad or wants to cry over a character whom they love so much. You can say that I cried, a lot, when the books ends with a gut-wrenching feeling in my chest. But, the book doesn't ends here. There's more to this trilogy. We'll see.
2) Romance
Okay, so this isn't necessary, but I'd like to give my opinion on this. Normally, I love enemies-to-lovers scenes. But, I feel like Reagan was already a teeny tiny part attracted to Tarik before the start of the series. Maybe it's my paranoid imagination or maybe she reallyy is. Who knows? Only Becky and Tyffany does. More to add, I would really love it if you write a past love story about Tarika and *coughs* you-know-who in the future. Anyway, the romance isn't a serious case, but, I'm a paranoid who really really wants to see Reagan and Tarik together. And the good thing is, we will! I'm not sure for their relationship but I'm sure that the story of Reagan and Tarik will continue. I'm definitely reading them, and I bet you'll enjoy them as I did!
5 OUT OF 5 STARS, according to Goodreads criteria
Infinite amount of stars and love, according to my criteria
-Celia
"Destruction follows me wherever I go."
Join Reagan and Tarik's journey in this page-turning and thrilling book now!
May 7, 2020
Wow. I am honestly floored by this book! It's the first in the series, and I absolutely can't wait to read the next one! I love fantasy novels to begin with, but Becky and Tyffany did an amazing job building two unique and heartrendingly damaged characters, while retaining strength of character and building a world that comes to life with every turn of the page. There are so many scenes that really grab on and pull you into the story. I found myself staying up way too late to finish another chapter, and it was worth it! I have read books by both of the authors, and their writing styles blended beautifully to create a book world that I am anxious to be submerged in again and again. Fabulous job!! That ending though ... ugh!! Looking forward to September for book 2!
April 21, 2020
This book made me lose sleep, and I ain't even mad about it. Did I regret it in the morning more than once? Yes. But did I stop reading when I should've been sleeping... NOPE.
I can't even string words together after finishing this book... All I can really say is y'all need to read it, and devour it, and fall in love with it.
I can't even string words together after finishing this book... All I can really say is y'all need to read it, and devour it, and fall in love with it.
July 31, 2020
4,5 ★
It's fate that brought this book to me, and I'm so grateful that it happened because Dawn Till Dusk turned out to be the kind of book I wanted to read: there are creatures with wings, the 'enemies to lovers' trope (and it was so well developed!!!! I really loved every single interaction between Tarik and Reagan, there are a lot of post-its to show it), an amazing female character that is strong and capable of defending herself (but also weak and frail when life tries to crush her) and just want to use her advantages to help others (I will never get tired of reading about characters rebelling again non-sense rules and ideas imposed by society), an equally amazing male character with a tormented past that prefer to be alone instead of losing the people he loves and that says sorry when he is being an alpha hole (!!!!!!!!!), a LOT of hurt/comfort scenes (characters comforting themselves with little touches is my greatest weakness).
Sometimes the pacing felt a little bit too rushed, but really, who cares? I enjoyed this story too much to not give it a good rating anyway.
And for once there is no big cliffhanger that is going to make me die of madness until book 2!!! But I miss Tarik and Reagan all the same, can't wait for Fall of Night 🤧
It's fate that brought this book to me, and I'm so grateful that it happened because Dawn Till Dusk turned out to be the kind of book I wanted to read: there are creatures with wings, the 'enemies to lovers' trope (and it was so well developed!!!! I really loved every single interaction between Tarik and Reagan, there are a lot of post-its to show it), an amazing female character that is strong and capable of defending herself (but also weak and frail when life tries to crush her) and just want to use her advantages to help others (I will never get tired of reading about characters rebelling again non-sense rules and ideas imposed by society), an equally amazing male character with a tormented past that prefer to be alone instead of losing the people he loves and that says sorry when he is being an alpha hole (!!!!!!!!!), a LOT of hurt/comfort scenes (characters comforting themselves with little touches is my greatest weakness).
Sometimes the pacing felt a little bit too rushed, but really, who cares? I enjoyed this story too much to not give it a good rating anyway.
And for once there is no big cliffhanger that is going to make me die of madness until book 2!!! But I miss Tarik and Reagan all the same, can't wait for Fall of Night 🤧
April 18, 2020
I received an email eArc of this book and have to say I really enjoyed it. I loved hoe sassy the female lead is and really loved the plot and mythology. My only bugbear was that the Reagan smokes ( a huge turn off for me) but other than that I really loved it. Can’t wait for book two.
September 25, 2020
OMG THIS BOOK! It’s amazing. AMAZING! I have not read a book so fast since I was a teenager. Tarik and Reagan are OTP. The characters, especially the MCs Reagan and Tarik, are so well carved and they go through a lot of development throughout the book. The world building is fantastical. The villains are so hateful you will want to crush them. And the pacing is addictive and totally binge worthy. 100% recommend this book, especially to romance readers who love a fantastical spin. Binge worthy. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
*DISCLAIMER: I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
*DISCLAIMER: I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
April 24, 2020
*I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Okay so before we get too far into this y'all (please excuse the southern drawl this quarantine is getting to me) need to know I loved it so much I read from chapter 3 to the end in one day and then woke up the next morning with the crazy idea to cosplay the female main character Reagan.
So I dyed my hair blue...sort-of. I'm pretty dark-haired naturally so the blue didn't really stand out but hey, I tried. I was trying to look "cool" and "authoritative" but I came off looking more like an emo middle schooler. However, I am both the same height and age as Reagan so it might be accurate...
Alrighty, let's get down to business.
Dawn Till Dusk is book one of the Genesis Crystal Saga by Tyffany Hackett and Becky Moynihan. You may recognize Tyffany's name from the reviews I did of her books Imber and Tellus; if you like those don't be afraid to bring in high expectations of Dawn Till Dusk because she will meet them. This is the first book I've read from Becky Moynihan but she was also very impressive and she's been super sweet every time I've talked with her. She has written the Elite Trials trilogy.
Reagan, written by Tyffany, is a lion shifter and the daughter of the most important man in Nathra City. She works as the Night Enforcer keeping the distance between the Fae and Shifters until Tarik's nightly fights go too far. Tarik, written by Becky, is a Fae who fights to forget by literally getting in fights with Shifters every night. When some shifters attempt to kill him Reagan takes it upon herself to help him clean up his life. She gets more than she expected when trying to simply help a broken Fae. Evil plots are revealed that shake even her view of the world.
Shifters rule the city and Faes are seen as lesser creatures meant only for the most menial tasks. Reagan pays a great price for breaking the class barrier and reaching out to help the Fae. There are very direct statements and smaller slights that show the abuse and racism "I trembled in fear, in horror, as he met my eyes and said, "We do not help the Fae." " The characters are very well built, their views of the world align to their status and the situations they were raised in while still allowing for growth and beauty.
While the book does talk about serious issues such as racism and abuse it also has some really adorable/ridiculous one-liners. While building the enemies-to-lovers part of the story my debatably favorite line of the story is thought by Tarik about Reagan. "I bet she has a catnip plant stashed in her bedroom." In the midst of all the horror and devastation brought on their lives, they still manage to find love and find such simple but effective ways to tease each other. A good reminder that no matter what you're facing you can still find joy in the little things.
Okay so before we get too far into this y'all (please excuse the southern drawl this quarantine is getting to me) need to know I loved it so much I read from chapter 3 to the end in one day and then woke up the next morning with the crazy idea to cosplay the female main character Reagan.
So I dyed my hair blue...sort-of. I'm pretty dark-haired naturally so the blue didn't really stand out but hey, I tried. I was trying to look "cool" and "authoritative" but I came off looking more like an emo middle schooler. However, I am both the same height and age as Reagan so it might be accurate...
Alrighty, let's get down to business.
Dawn Till Dusk is book one of the Genesis Crystal Saga by Tyffany Hackett and Becky Moynihan. You may recognize Tyffany's name from the reviews I did of her books Imber and Tellus; if you like those don't be afraid to bring in high expectations of Dawn Till Dusk because she will meet them. This is the first book I've read from Becky Moynihan but she was also very impressive and she's been super sweet every time I've talked with her. She has written the Elite Trials trilogy.
Reagan, written by Tyffany, is a lion shifter and the daughter of the most important man in Nathra City. She works as the Night Enforcer keeping the distance between the Fae and Shifters until Tarik's nightly fights go too far. Tarik, written by Becky, is a Fae who fights to forget by literally getting in fights with Shifters every night. When some shifters attempt to kill him Reagan takes it upon herself to help him clean up his life. She gets more than she expected when trying to simply help a broken Fae. Evil plots are revealed that shake even her view of the world.
Shifters rule the city and Faes are seen as lesser creatures meant only for the most menial tasks. Reagan pays a great price for breaking the class barrier and reaching out to help the Fae. There are very direct statements and smaller slights that show the abuse and racism "I trembled in fear, in horror, as he met my eyes and said, "We do not help the Fae." " The characters are very well built, their views of the world align to their status and the situations they were raised in while still allowing for growth and beauty.
While the book does talk about serious issues such as racism and abuse it also has some really adorable/ridiculous one-liners. While building the enemies-to-lovers part of the story my debatably favorite line of the story is thought by Tarik about Reagan. "I bet she has a catnip plant stashed in her bedroom." In the midst of all the horror and devastation brought on their lives, they still manage to find love and find such simple but effective ways to tease each other. A good reminder that no matter what you're facing you can still find joy in the little things.
July 5, 2020
Wow!
I am highly impressed that this book (and this series) is written by two different authors. By reading it, you couldn’t tell that each character was written by a different person as they blended so well together in their writing styles and I think that needs to be noted here. Very well ladies!
Tarik and Reagan...I loved them. Tarik is the brooding male who has a chip on his shoulder and won’t accept help from anyone. Reagan is a dominant female who take control of situations that may not always be ideal or could put her at risk for harm. When the two of them meet, sparks fly!
This story was a rollercoaster of emotions and action. It was gripping. There were slow parts to it, but I think they lead up to the action and then I could not stop reading.
I am highly impressed that this book (and this series) is written by two different authors. By reading it, you couldn’t tell that each character was written by a different person as they blended so well together in their writing styles and I think that needs to be noted here. Very well ladies!
Tarik and Reagan...I loved them. Tarik is the brooding male who has a chip on his shoulder and won’t accept help from anyone. Reagan is a dominant female who take control of situations that may not always be ideal or could put her at risk for harm. When the two of them meet, sparks fly!
This story was a rollercoaster of emotions and action. It was gripping. There were slow parts to it, but I think they lead up to the action and then I could not stop reading.
May 9, 2020
I'm a mood reader. If the book doesn't match my current mood and it is just "meh", then I won't be able to get into it. This book about shapeshifters, revolution, and enemies to lovers, was not in my current mood. I still couldn't put it down!
May 18, 2020
Everything you want from an urban fantasy series, with plenty of sass, some delicious tension between the protagonists and nice twists like having the Fae be the weaker, exploited race with the shifters the ones in charge - I don't think I've come across that before. The story kept up a good pace without lagging for the worldbuilding despite being the first in a new series, and I'm very intrigued to see what's going to happen with the next books - I have questions and I need answers!
May 25, 2020
I received a copy from the author, Becky Moynihan, which I voluntarily read and reviewed. All opinions are my own.
After reading Becky’s Elite Trials, I couldn’t wait to dive into this NA urban fantasy. I typically do not read a lot of urban fantasy, but this book definitely made me want to read more. An enemies-to-lovers romance featuring a hot-headed fae and a snarky shifter was exactly what I needed in this urban fantasy. The relationship building was on point, plus the world-building was so vivid. And, I absolutely adored the side characters.
The authors have a beautiful writing style. You can tell they make a great writing team. They make it so easy for a reader to get emotionally invested, and the story just flows well overall. And, I love a story with alternating view points. It helped me really connect with Tarik and Reagan.
There really wasn’t a flaw per se in the story other than the pacing was slow at times, and I think I was just impatient for it to unfold quicker. The characters, however, make up for the pace.
If you love dark NA urban fantasies, then this is the book for you.
(Trigger warnings: References to sexual assault, physical abuse, parental abuse, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.)
After reading Becky’s Elite Trials, I couldn’t wait to dive into this NA urban fantasy. I typically do not read a lot of urban fantasy, but this book definitely made me want to read more. An enemies-to-lovers romance featuring a hot-headed fae and a snarky shifter was exactly what I needed in this urban fantasy. The relationship building was on point, plus the world-building was so vivid. And, I absolutely adored the side characters.
The authors have a beautiful writing style. You can tell they make a great writing team. They make it so easy for a reader to get emotionally invested, and the story just flows well overall. And, I love a story with alternating view points. It helped me really connect with Tarik and Reagan.
There really wasn’t a flaw per se in the story other than the pacing was slow at times, and I think I was just impatient for it to unfold quicker. The characters, however, make up for the pace.
If you love dark NA urban fantasies, then this is the book for you.
(Trigger warnings: References to sexual assault, physical abuse, parental abuse, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.)
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