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Summer Twilight: Book 1
A Blade knows all, sees all, and tells few.
Warden Alexander Laurent faces returning to a kingdom and a life he left behind long ago. He didn't expect to see her so soon, or the look on her face-the look he's responsible for. When he stumbles onto a plot that endangers not only Caidy, but the entire kingdom, Alex takes the burden upon himself to stop it even if it costs him everything.
Lady Caidelene is busy preparing for the fabled Harvest Festival, the most important celebration in Rosemoor Dell, when Alex returns suddenly. She had dreamed of his homecoming, but not like this - it's like he can barely look at her. As the Festival draws closer, and Alex pulls further away, Caidy is left did he ever really love her?
Summer Twilight is set in the intricate world of the Mezrani Empire, where not everything is as it seems. Can Alex and Caidy find a way to survive a dangerous plot to destabilize the throne? Or will they find themselves caught in the machinations of the Empire itself; their fates inextricably tied with that of the world?
Warden Alexander Laurent faces returning to a kingdom and a life he left behind long ago. He didn't expect to see her so soon, or the look on her face-the look he's responsible for. When he stumbles onto a plot that endangers not only Caidy, but the entire kingdom, Alex takes the burden upon himself to stop it even if it costs him everything.
Lady Caidelene is busy preparing for the fabled Harvest Festival, the most important celebration in Rosemoor Dell, when Alex returns suddenly. She had dreamed of his homecoming, but not like this - it's like he can barely look at her. As the Festival draws closer, and Alex pulls further away, Caidy is left did he ever really love her?
Summer Twilight is set in the intricate world of the Mezrani Empire, where not everything is as it seems. Can Alex and Caidy find a way to survive a dangerous plot to destabilize the throne? Or will they find themselves caught in the machinations of the Empire itself; their fates inextricably tied with that of the world?
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2020
1 person is currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
Bridget Smith
1 book3 followersAuthor. Teach for America alum. Management consultant. Dedicated dog-mom. Whether she’s inspiring students to love world geography through games, technology, and a sense of humor or helping her clients disaster-proof their businesses, she brings passion, dedication, and excitement to every adventure. As an author her writing deals with the intersection of fantasy, reality, and identity.
Told she would never walk again after a nerve injury, Bridget began writing what would become her debut novel to simply process what she was feeling. However, the story quickly took on a life of its own, and she realized that the power of Alex and Caidy’s world could help other people the same way it changed her life.
Told she would never walk again after a nerve injury, Bridget began writing what would become her debut novel to simply process what she was feeling. However, the story quickly took on a life of its own, and she realized that the power of Alex and Caidy’s world could help other people the same way it changed her life.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
June 1, 2021
I was provided a free copy of the audiobook from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Summer Twilight is a book written by a friend of mine from high school, and I think she's really on a good path. There was a wealth of inspired world-building, with a rich world that felt very real. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about it, although the scope of the world the reader gets to see is very limited. I hope to see more in future series installments.
Where the book lost a couple stars for me was in the plotting/pace and the character writing. The plot was a bit undecipherable, and I think I know what Smith was getting at with it... but being largely devoid of action and lacking a character new to the world serving as a window for readers, I found a lot of the politics that drove the plot hard to follow. The characters in the book also come across as very one-dimensional and, because they have a long unseen history together, can often feel jarring to the reader unfamiliar with their relationship(s).
I hope to see more "showing" rather than "telling" in the inevitable sequel, as perhaps that would help with focusing the plot and making the world of the Mezrani Empire feel a little less foreign, along with justifying some character moments. A good debut by Smith, but I find myself looking forward to her Sophomore installment in the hopes that there is some resolution to the plot that hangs wide open at the finish of this book.
Summer Twilight is a book written by a friend of mine from high school, and I think she's really on a good path. There was a wealth of inspired world-building, with a rich world that felt very real. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about it, although the scope of the world the reader gets to see is very limited. I hope to see more in future series installments.
Where the book lost a couple stars for me was in the plotting/pace and the character writing. The plot was a bit undecipherable, and I think I know what Smith was getting at with it... but being largely devoid of action and lacking a character new to the world serving as a window for readers, I found a lot of the politics that drove the plot hard to follow. The characters in the book also come across as very one-dimensional and, because they have a long unseen history together, can often feel jarring to the reader unfamiliar with their relationship(s).
I hope to see more "showing" rather than "telling" in the inevitable sequel, as perhaps that would help with focusing the plot and making the world of the Mezrani Empire feel a little less foreign, along with justifying some character moments. A good debut by Smith, but I find myself looking forward to her Sophomore installment in the hopes that there is some resolution to the plot that hangs wide open at the finish of this book.
December 28, 2020
In the fascinating world of the Mezrani Empire, Warden Alexander Laurent and Lady Caidelene must find a way to survive a dangerous plot. Within this world of mages and wizards, Bridget reminds us we are more than capable of handling any of life's challenges and we can overcome our deepest fears that frighten us most. This beautiful work of art holds within a wise, well-crafted story that'll keep you on your toes after every turn of the page!
March 2, 2021
I have been an avid fantasy reader for the longest time. I love it when you can get lost in another world, with its own history, country, and characters. After finding so many misses with the last fantasy books I've read/started reading, it was a great pleasure to find myself getting pulled into the world of Summer Twilight. I felt like I was there.
Smith crafts an engrossing world with very real characters; you understand their motives, flaws, and decisions because they are like you and me. The plot was engaging, pulling you along to a climax that everyone knew was coming but didn't know how it was going to play out.
I recommend this to all readers trying to get into a new fantasy series, and am looking forward to the next book!
Smith crafts an engrossing world with very real characters; you understand their motives, flaws, and decisions because they are like you and me. The plot was engaging, pulling you along to a climax that everyone knew was coming but didn't know how it was going to play out.
I recommend this to all readers trying to get into a new fantasy series, and am looking forward to the next book!
December 26, 2020
This book was an amazing escape from reality, and as I delved into the fantasy world that Smith brought to life, it reminded me of the fantasy books I would read as a kid. The nostalgic aspect of this book was enhanced by its colorful imagery and character development. Can't wait for Book 2!
February 28, 2021
This fantasy novel is a great first step in a promising writing career. I'm excited to see what Bridget follows with. Full blog post here: tylerwolanin.com/blog/2021/2/26/what-...
March 11, 2021
Bridget has created a complex, full world and filled it with all sorts of wonderful characters. A compelling read, Summer Twilight, sets up the reader up for many stories to come. I whole heartedly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next chapter in Alex and Caidy's adventure.
December 18, 2021
Summer Twilight reminded me why I love fantasy books! Smith captivates you in the fantasy world leaving you eager to continue reading. Beautiful writing. Delightful characters that are relatable and dynamic. Highly recommend Summer Twilight, it is a wonderful escape. Looking forward to news on book 2!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews