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Daybreak
Protect the world. Preserve peace. Guard the secrets. For centuries, Hunters have worked from the shadows to protect the world against Rev’ers. Ordinary people would call them demons but the Hunters knew these creatures for what they were. They weren’t possessed by devils, nor were they demons spat out of hell. They were just creatures from a world not found in any science books. No one on Earth knew of their existence, and the Hunters kept the balance. In a few short weeks, that balance will be destroyed. When Rev’ers go haywire and cause unpredictable destruction, Mafuyu, a Hunter, is tasked with protecting Mirai, an ex-Hunter that has left the organization for reasons not widely known, from Bezaleel. Legend has it that this First-Level Rev'er killed hundreds of men before he disappeared without a trace. Years later, he has resurfaced again. Mirai knows all about Bezaleel and First-Levels, but he’s been running from a dark and dangerous past. He fears that if the First-Levels get to him, then history will repeat itself. Then all of the effort he’s put in to guard crucial secrets, all of the sacrifices he’s made, will have been in vain. As the Hunters discover why their world has been tipped into sudden, unmanageable chaos, about Bezaleel and the Rev’ers, Mirai’s past unravels and reveals a world that no one, least of all Mafuyu, ever knew existed.
- GenresFantasyYoung AdultEbooks
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2020
13 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Navab
1 book9 followersAJ Navab is an award-winning fantasy author, journalist, and editor, known for crafting stories that fuse explosive action with emotional depth. Her debut novel, Daybreak, won the 2025 International Author Excellence Award, earning recognition for its anime-inspired worldbuilding and detailed storytelling.
AJ’s writing is often characterized by its cinematic pacing and intricate worldbuilding. Her work is heavily influenced by Japanese anime, with series like Bungou Stray Dogs, Gintama, Dororo, Wind Breaker and Kaiju no.8 being amongst her favorites which inform her interest in morally grounded characters and stylized storytelling.
AJ has a degree in Media and Communication and built a career in journalism, working for international prestigious publications like South China Morning Post and Ahlan! Magazine.
She is also the founder of At World’s Origins, a travel blog that explores archaeological sites, myth-laced cities, and wildlife sanctuaries across the globe. Her travels often shape the settings and cultural layers of her fantasy fiction. A martial artist herself, AJ brings real-world combat experience to her writing, crafting realistic and detailed fight scenes.
She cites Stephen King, Brandon Sanderson, Steven Spielberg, and R.L. Stine as key influences on her work. Her fiction often bridges the gap between commercial appeal and literary introspection, garnering recognition for its balance of genre convention and emotional resonance.
AJ’s writing is often characterized by its cinematic pacing and intricate worldbuilding. Her work is heavily influenced by Japanese anime, with series like Bungou Stray Dogs, Gintama, Dororo, Wind Breaker and Kaiju no.8 being amongst her favorites which inform her interest in morally grounded characters and stylized storytelling.
AJ has a degree in Media and Communication and built a career in journalism, working for international prestigious publications like South China Morning Post and Ahlan! Magazine.
She is also the founder of At World’s Origins, a travel blog that explores archaeological sites, myth-laced cities, and wildlife sanctuaries across the globe. Her travels often shape the settings and cultural layers of her fantasy fiction. A martial artist herself, AJ brings real-world combat experience to her writing, crafting realistic and detailed fight scenes.
She cites Stephen King, Brandon Sanderson, Steven Spielberg, and R.L. Stine as key influences on her work. Her fiction often bridges the gap between commercial appeal and literary introspection, garnering recognition for its balance of genre convention and emotional resonance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 28, 2021
Heads up: I’m going to be brutally honest with this review.
First of all, though the story might not have worked for me, I’m sure people who like action-packed scenes and anime-inspired stories would be high heels in love with it.
But my experience with it was not so thrilling as I was expecting to, and let me explain why:
As you know, I’m a character driven reader, so even if the story is not that good, if I like any of the characters, I read until the end. Therefore, there were several times that I wanted to DNF this book because I wasn’t interested in any of the characters. There was so much going on that I just feel like I didn’t get time to know any of them, except for Mirai. Even the bad guys, they all sound just the same.
To me, it felt like the author tried to tell me that these bunch of characters’ care for each other, but I didn’t know why. She told me, you see, but I never felt it was true. I didn’t believe in their friendship because building relationships between characters takes time.
And so, as the story progressed I couldn’t care less about what happened to them. That is until we got to see a bit of Mirai’s past. Those chapters where we see him grow with his family are the main reason I’m giving this a 2/5. I felt like that moment of ease was perfect for me to understand him.
Another thing that didn’t make it up for me was the pacing. Somehow I felt like I was watching a movie, and perhaps, this would have worked better as a screenplay or a manga, but there was never a “breather”. And, like I said before, as a character driven reader, that was seriously annoying me.
The fact that I had to stop my other readings because of this one made me dislike it even more. But the fault is mine, because I promised I would read this in February and I left it for the last week of the month.
Anyway, I don’t have favorite quotes nor favorite moments and I know I would only remember it because it had a nice idea, that sounded like something I would have loved but the execution was just not working for me. At all. I’m sorry to be this blunt but I really did not like it.
I’m sure some people will love it and if you’re interested in reading an action-packed urban fantasy that feels like a shonen anime, I would recommend it to you.
I received an e-book copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, though the story might not have worked for me, I’m sure people who like action-packed scenes and anime-inspired stories would be high heels in love with it.
But my experience with it was not so thrilling as I was expecting to, and let me explain why:
As you know, I’m a character driven reader, so even if the story is not that good, if I like any of the characters, I read until the end. Therefore, there were several times that I wanted to DNF this book because I wasn’t interested in any of the characters. There was so much going on that I just feel like I didn’t get time to know any of them, except for Mirai. Even the bad guys, they all sound just the same.
To me, it felt like the author tried to tell me that these bunch of characters’ care for each other, but I didn’t know why. She told me, you see, but I never felt it was true. I didn’t believe in their friendship because building relationships between characters takes time.
And so, as the story progressed I couldn’t care less about what happened to them. That is until we got to see a bit of Mirai’s past. Those chapters where we see him grow with his family are the main reason I’m giving this a 2/5. I felt like that moment of ease was perfect for me to understand him.
Another thing that didn’t make it up for me was the pacing. Somehow I felt like I was watching a movie, and perhaps, this would have worked better as a screenplay or a manga, but there was never a “breather”. And, like I said before, as a character driven reader, that was seriously annoying me.
The fact that I had to stop my other readings because of this one made me dislike it even more. But the fault is mine, because I promised I would read this in February and I left it for the last week of the month.
Anyway, I don’t have favorite quotes nor favorite moments and I know I would only remember it because it had a nice idea, that sounded like something I would have loved but the execution was just not working for me. At all. I’m sorry to be this blunt but I really did not like it.
I’m sure some people will love it and if you’re interested in reading an action-packed urban fantasy that feels like a shonen anime, I would recommend it to you.
I received an e-book copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2021
Thank you to the author AJ Navab for a free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review!
When I read the synopsis about demon-like creatures and hunters that fight against them, I was excited because I'm a huge Supernatural fan. Both the show and just supernatural elements and creatures in books.
I loved the pacing in the book and felt it was very action-packed and flowed really well. I was shocked that this is AJ Navab's first book. The last few chapters especially I was on the edge of my seat! I'd recommend this to any fans of the paranormal and if you like well-executed action sequences.
When I read the synopsis about demon-like creatures and hunters that fight against them, I was excited because I'm a huge Supernatural fan. Both the show and just supernatural elements and creatures in books.
I loved the pacing in the book and felt it was very action-packed and flowed really well. I was shocked that this is AJ Navab's first book. The last few chapters especially I was on the edge of my seat! I'd recommend this to any fans of the paranormal and if you like well-executed action sequences.
August 10, 2021
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
2 different worlds with 2 different people but their life colliding together in strange ways.
Mafuyu is a normal human boy born on earth even since childhood he knew he is special. He could see things that other people couldn’t and he thought that’s normal until he found out in the worst possible way that it was only him seeing the creatures around him. People around him were either wary or ridicule him for constantly “lying” or playing make-believe. Even his parents made sure he was excluded from almost everything in his life and never understood him and as the years passed he felt more like a burden for his parents than their son, until one day when he decided enough is enough. At the age of nine on a very cold winter day, he left his home and by luck, he was found by Zen, a young man who just like him was special and could see things around him.
Bezaleel a Teiyyan born on the Raathri’s clan – the first Deva ever. Trained since the age of 5, he was the best assassin the Raathri clan could have until he becomes the worst enemy they could have.
The story is set in Japan, where Zen is the leader of an organization of Hunters, that hunt different creatures called Rev’er, they’re from different levels, the lowest level is the strongest. The story begins with Mafuyu on a hunt to eliminate a creature until he figures out that a 3rd Level Rev’er is acting as an intelligent being.
The book is gripping from the beginning and catches you into a world full of monsters, powerful creatures, and fight overpower. The story concentrates mostly on Bezaleel and Mafuyu’s story, there are different pov’s from which the story is being told and you get to see the fights each one of them is going through, the secrets are hidden, and how Bezaleel isn’t the monster everyone thought he is.
I loved the story because from the beginning of the pages is full action-packed and brings you a glimpse of their world and what they’re going through. I liked the fact we got to read about Mafuyu’s life even if it was short explained, but what was more amazing was the life of Bezaleel, it was explained in detail and you could understand more of where he’s coming from and how he has changed.
I wished the story would’ve had more character development and more details about their backstory more time on developing their friendship. While the friendship between Mafuyu and Bezaleel has warmed my heart I felt they needed a little bit more time. They moved from strangers to best friends way too quickly. While the author did an amazing job of showing us Bezaleel’s life I felt like she forgot about the other characters. We get small moments here and there about Mafuyu and explanations about him and why he sees the creatures he sees but I felt like something was missing.
The book doesn’t have romance in it, it got sweet moments of friendship, action, funny moments and it is engaging for sure, it does keep you hooked – especially during Bezaleel’s life explanation that really sucked me in and wanted to read more and more about it.
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2 different worlds with 2 different people but their life colliding together in strange ways.
Mafuyu is a normal human boy born on earth even since childhood he knew he is special. He could see things that other people couldn’t and he thought that’s normal until he found out in the worst possible way that it was only him seeing the creatures around him. People around him were either wary or ridicule him for constantly “lying” or playing make-believe. Even his parents made sure he was excluded from almost everything in his life and never understood him and as the years passed he felt more like a burden for his parents than their son, until one day when he decided enough is enough. At the age of nine on a very cold winter day, he left his home and by luck, he was found by Zen, a young man who just like him was special and could see things around him.
Bezaleel a Teiyyan born on the Raathri’s clan – the first Deva ever. Trained since the age of 5, he was the best assassin the Raathri clan could have until he becomes the worst enemy they could have.
The story is set in Japan, where Zen is the leader of an organization of Hunters, that hunt different creatures called Rev’er, they’re from different levels, the lowest level is the strongest. The story begins with Mafuyu on a hunt to eliminate a creature until he figures out that a 3rd Level Rev’er is acting as an intelligent being.
The book is gripping from the beginning and catches you into a world full of monsters, powerful creatures, and fight overpower. The story concentrates mostly on Bezaleel and Mafuyu’s story, there are different pov’s from which the story is being told and you get to see the fights each one of them is going through, the secrets are hidden, and how Bezaleel isn’t the monster everyone thought he is.
I loved the story because from the beginning of the pages is full action-packed and brings you a glimpse of their world and what they’re going through. I liked the fact we got to read about Mafuyu’s life even if it was short explained, but what was more amazing was the life of Bezaleel, it was explained in detail and you could understand more of where he’s coming from and how he has changed.
I wished the story would’ve had more character development and more details about their backstory more time on developing their friendship. While the friendship between Mafuyu and Bezaleel has warmed my heart I felt they needed a little bit more time. They moved from strangers to best friends way too quickly. While the author did an amazing job of showing us Bezaleel’s life I felt like she forgot about the other characters. We get small moments here and there about Mafuyu and explanations about him and why he sees the creatures he sees but I felt like something was missing.
The book doesn’t have romance in it, it got sweet moments of friendship, action, funny moments and it is engaging for sure, it does keep you hooked – especially during Bezaleel’s life explanation that really sucked me in and wanted to read more and more about it.
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January 13, 2021
The author provided me with a free ecopy of this book for an honest review. I then loved the first few chapters and bought the physical copy! I love this cover so much.
Daybreak is a story that starts out simple. It is set in Japan where you follow a group known as Hunters that protect the world from what we would call demons. The hunters call them Rev’ers. They are not demons, but creatures from another world. Certain events begin to take place that jeopardize the balance between the two worlds and it starts to get more complex.
This is a multi POV story in which our MCs are trying to keep our world from being taken over by these Rev’ers.
I truly loved the dynamic between all of the characters. Mafuyu’s and Mirai’s friendship felt more like two brothers that openly communicated and completely had each other’s back. In a lot of stories that I’ve read, there is unnecessary conflict or tension between the two MCs and I loved that this story didn’t do that.
Both Mirai and Mafuyu have such heartbreaking back stories. My heart hurt so much for both of them but I’m so happy they have each other.
The magic was complex and so intriguing. There were consequences to using too much power and certain abilities could cancel the others out because of the balance with the magic.
I honestly felt like I was reading through something like a final fantasy game or an anime the way certain scenes were playing out and I absolutely loved that. Can’t say that it was intentionally made that way but it helped me clearly imagine the scenes in my head while reading.
There is a bit of a time jump (flashback) in the middle of the book, but I didn’t feel like it took away from the story at all. It was completely necessary and helped to move the story along.
There is so much more I could say, but ultimately I’ll say this, check this story out! I love that I was able to experience it and it will definitely be one of my favorites for this month!
Daybreak is a story that starts out simple. It is set in Japan where you follow a group known as Hunters that protect the world from what we would call demons. The hunters call them Rev’ers. They are not demons, but creatures from another world. Certain events begin to take place that jeopardize the balance between the two worlds and it starts to get more complex.
This is a multi POV story in which our MCs are trying to keep our world from being taken over by these Rev’ers.
I truly loved the dynamic between all of the characters. Mafuyu’s and Mirai’s friendship felt more like two brothers that openly communicated and completely had each other’s back. In a lot of stories that I’ve read, there is unnecessary conflict or tension between the two MCs and I loved that this story didn’t do that.
Both Mirai and Mafuyu have such heartbreaking back stories. My heart hurt so much for both of them but I’m so happy they have each other.
The magic was complex and so intriguing. There were consequences to using too much power and certain abilities could cancel the others out because of the balance with the magic.
I honestly felt like I was reading through something like a final fantasy game or an anime the way certain scenes were playing out and I absolutely loved that. Can’t say that it was intentionally made that way but it helped me clearly imagine the scenes in my head while reading.
There is a bit of a time jump (flashback) in the middle of the book, but I didn’t feel like it took away from the story at all. It was completely necessary and helped to move the story along.
There is so much more I could say, but ultimately I’ll say this, check this story out! I love that I was able to experience it and it will definitely be one of my favorites for this month!
February 28, 2021
I got a copy from the author for an honest review.
First thank you for this oppertunity to read this book. From the first line the book really took my interest.
I mean it is JAPAN! and i love everything japan!
The cover looks really nice and i am a sucker for good covers. yes i judge a book by it’s cover (oops)
It gave me a Final Fantasy feel and the character on it made me think of Noctis.
I also liked that for once that the book had a male MC instead of female.
We follow our main character Mafuyu. He is a hunter, a person that can see what normal people would call monsters or supernatural beings, demons but “normal” people can’t. By the hunters they are called Rev’ers. They are not demons really but beins with powers from another world.
Mafuyu is assigned to a bodyguard job by his boss. and there we meet Mirai, a former hunter that quit some years ago but nobody knows why. We get to learn more about Mirai, who he is and what happend all those years ago, and alot more.
This book is action packed and fast paced. There is no drama you normally see when something is revealed which is nice change of pace, even though i don’t mind the drama haha.
Some fights did feel a bit to easy but it didn’t change anything to the fact that this book is a must read for everyone that loves japan and it’s lore. I loved to read Navab’s twist on japanese demons and how to fight them.
I really enjoyed this book and would definetly read a sequel to this one if there will ever be one.
Also i actually cried a couple of times while reading.
First thank you for this oppertunity to read this book. From the first line the book really took my interest.
I mean it is JAPAN! and i love everything japan!
The cover looks really nice and i am a sucker for good covers. yes i judge a book by it’s cover (oops)
It gave me a Final Fantasy feel and the character on it made me think of Noctis.
I also liked that for once that the book had a male MC instead of female.
We follow our main character Mafuyu. He is a hunter, a person that can see what normal people would call monsters or supernatural beings, demons but “normal” people can’t. By the hunters they are called Rev’ers. They are not demons really but beins with powers from another world.
Mafuyu is assigned to a bodyguard job by his boss. and there we meet Mirai, a former hunter that quit some years ago but nobody knows why. We get to learn more about Mirai, who he is and what happend all those years ago, and alot more.
This book is action packed and fast paced. There is no drama you normally see when something is revealed which is nice change of pace, even though i don’t mind the drama haha.
Some fights did feel a bit to easy but it didn’t change anything to the fact that this book is a must read for everyone that loves japan and it’s lore. I loved to read Navab’s twist on japanese demons and how to fight them.
I really enjoyed this book and would definetly read a sequel to this one if there will ever be one.
Also i actually cried a couple of times while reading.
Read
April 19, 2021DNF at 40%
I just can't get myself reading this any further. There was nothing particularly wrong with it, but it felt like it's from the younger end of young adult books which felt too young for me and thus I couldn't connect with the characters.
The writing style was easy and made the book quick to read. The book was also fast paced which was nice, but also meant that there was less room for world-building.
Thank you so much for the author for giving me a copy of this ebook in exchange of an honest review!
I just can't get myself reading this any further. There was nothing particularly wrong with it, but it felt like it's from the younger end of young adult books which felt too young for me and thus I couldn't connect with the characters.
The writing style was easy and made the book quick to read. The book was also fast paced which was nice, but also meant that there was less room for world-building.
Thank you so much for the author for giving me a copy of this ebook in exchange of an honest review!
March 9, 2021
Thank you to AJ Navab who sent me a copy of Daybreak in exchange of an honest review. Daybreak is full of action, adventure and plot twist and the book never failed to keep up its fast and exhilarating pace! I loved the magic system and also how it's set in Japan - how awesome is that?!! The plot is intense and there were even a couple of plot twists that I didn't see coming! I would have liked to see the relationships between the characters develop and it would have been nice to explore more about Nagisa and the four Devas. There are a few chapters, around half way through the novel, where we explore a character's background and move away from the main plot line. While I understand this was necessary in order for the plot to make sense, I felt that it took me right out of the story, I would have much preferred had we gotten small extracts from the backstory throughout the novel, intertwined with the main story. Some of the time, I felt as though the author was telling rather than showing and there were a couple of info-dumps but nonetheless the plot of this book kept me going! If you like action-packed fantasy books then I think you'll enjoy reading Daybreak!
February 7, 2021
✨Title: Daybreak
✨Author: Aj Navab
✨Publisher: Ink Spell Books
✨Genre: Fantasy, Action
✨Setting: Japan
✨Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
You will like this if you like:
♡Fantasy: Traveling to a knew country or even a new world!!
♡Anime/Manga
♡Deep Friendship & Familial Love
Content Warning:
□Bloodshed
□Death
□War
□So much sadness!!
Review:
✨I was contacted by the author to see if id be interested in receiving a free copy of her book if id be willing to post a review on it:)
A fantasy novel that's manga/anime inspired that's set in Japan??? YOU BET I SAID YES XD
She's an indie author with this book, Daybreak, being her first published work~
✨We have some nice side character support, an evil villain (every story needs a bad guy!), amazing fight scenes (the author was amazing in fight details! I could see everything clearly it had me at the edge of my seat!!), the two main characters background were choked full of detail that makes you really feel for them and what they went through (especially Mirai), and some nice Romance (wether it be true romance or just straight up Bromance XD). And of course a happy ending~ even if there was instances somewhere in the middle that might have made me cry, it got the ending i hoped for!! Which is all that matters~ 💕
✨So all in all, do i recommend this book?
YES YES AND YES!!!
All the action, magic and parallel world travels, to the secrets being brought out into the light that makes you go WHAT?!(which i did actually 🤣 the first big secret i found out had me screaming cause i totally didn't see it coming!!), then moments that has your heart breaking in two before having a possible heart attack all before you can reach that perfect ending...powerful magic this author has worked on this masterpiece.
So definitely give Daybreak a read!! And buckle your seatbelts for a rollercoaster of action, secrets, and magic~ ✨
✨Author: Aj Navab
✨Publisher: Ink Spell Books
✨Genre: Fantasy, Action
✨Setting: Japan
✨Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
You will like this if you like:
♡Fantasy: Traveling to a knew country or even a new world!!
♡Anime/Manga
♡Deep Friendship & Familial Love
Content Warning:
□Bloodshed
□Death
□War
□So much sadness!!
Review:
✨I was contacted by the author to see if id be interested in receiving a free copy of her book if id be willing to post a review on it:)
A fantasy novel that's manga/anime inspired that's set in Japan??? YOU BET I SAID YES XD
She's an indie author with this book, Daybreak, being her first published work~
✨We have some nice side character support, an evil villain (every story needs a bad guy!), amazing fight scenes (the author was amazing in fight details! I could see everything clearly it had me at the edge of my seat!!), the two main characters background were choked full of detail that makes you really feel for them and what they went through (especially Mirai), and some nice Romance (wether it be true romance or just straight up Bromance XD). And of course a happy ending~ even if there was instances somewhere in the middle that might have made me cry, it got the ending i hoped for!! Which is all that matters~ 💕
✨So all in all, do i recommend this book?
YES YES AND YES!!!
All the action, magic and parallel world travels, to the secrets being brought out into the light that makes you go WHAT?!(which i did actually 🤣 the first big secret i found out had me screaming cause i totally didn't see it coming!!), then moments that has your heart breaking in two before having a possible heart attack all before you can reach that perfect ending...powerful magic this author has worked on this masterpiece.
So definitely give Daybreak a read!! And buckle your seatbelts for a rollercoaster of action, secrets, and magic~ ✨
March 10, 2021
Reading Daybreak felt a lot like watching an action filled anime show. For me the highlight was the complex world building and well thought out details that went into this story. The book is a mix of urban fantasy set in modern Japan and another world that has a more magical/ mystical vibe. Both were great settings and contrasted really well.
Plot
I liked the way the story started out as we are introduced to Mafuyu and his unique abilities. The pacing of the plot was mostly fast. There were several good action scenes that keep the plot moving forward, but then some slow ones in between.
I liked the concept of the Hunters going after Rev’ers. The Rev’ers were introduced as being kind of like demons. I loved the descriptions of the first ones they came across as I could clearly picture them and this had me hooked. The start of the book reminded me a lot of the anime show Bleach. The Hunters were kind of like soul reapers and there was an air of mystery that indicated there was more to everything than what we were first seeing.
I was a bit thrown of by the large flashback sequence in the middle of the book. I kind of wish this was at the start as it was a bit jarring, but provided great back story and made me connect a lot more with Mirai and wish I had known his story sooner. I really loved the introduction to another world in this section. It was more whimsical and magical than the urban/ modern setting.
Overall there was a lot to follow in this plot and I think I might have missed a few things along the way. But I enjoyed the way the story wrapped up. The ending made me feel more connected to the characters than the rest of the book.
Characters
There is a complex cast of characters, that at times I found hard to keep up with.
The point of view switches mostly between the two main characters Mafuyu and Mirai. I liked both these characters, especially Mirai, but it was hard to distinguish voice between the two characters.
Chapters told from Mafuyu and Mirai sounded very similar, at and times I wasn’t sure whose POV the chapter was from. As a reader this made me feel a little zoomed out from the story, like I wasn’t seeing it from either of their points of view, rather, I was watching from above.
Overall I liked the characters but didn’t feel much for any of them. Saying that, it is more of a world building and plot driven story and I enjoyed watching them go about their adventures.
The relationships were friendship and family/siblings. I feel like there could have been more depth to these and we just got to see the surface of it.
World Building and setting
As I said before, this was the highlight of the book for me! There is a feeling of depth to the world building and the author has obviously worked hard on everything that went into it.
I loved the way the modern Japanese setting contrasted with the other world. Both were easy to imagine and the descriptions made me feel like I was watching an anime show the whole time which I really loved!
The magic was quite mysterious and unexplained, but was believable and made me want to know more. I liked the combination of fighting and magic.
Summary
Overall a well written, and well thought out book. But I’m giving it 3.5 stars because I would have enjoyed it more if I got to know the characters better and if I had paid more attention to the details. If you are looking for an anime vibes with action packed fight scenes this is the book for you.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Plot
I liked the way the story started out as we are introduced to Mafuyu and his unique abilities. The pacing of the plot was mostly fast. There were several good action scenes that keep the plot moving forward, but then some slow ones in between.
I liked the concept of the Hunters going after Rev’ers. The Rev’ers were introduced as being kind of like demons. I loved the descriptions of the first ones they came across as I could clearly picture them and this had me hooked. The start of the book reminded me a lot of the anime show Bleach. The Hunters were kind of like soul reapers and there was an air of mystery that indicated there was more to everything than what we were first seeing.
I was a bit thrown of by the large flashback sequence in the middle of the book. I kind of wish this was at the start as it was a bit jarring, but provided great back story and made me connect a lot more with Mirai and wish I had known his story sooner. I really loved the introduction to another world in this section. It was more whimsical and magical than the urban/ modern setting.
Overall there was a lot to follow in this plot and I think I might have missed a few things along the way. But I enjoyed the way the story wrapped up. The ending made me feel more connected to the characters than the rest of the book.
Characters
There is a complex cast of characters, that at times I found hard to keep up with.
The point of view switches mostly between the two main characters Mafuyu and Mirai. I liked both these characters, especially Mirai, but it was hard to distinguish voice between the two characters.
Chapters told from Mafuyu and Mirai sounded very similar, at and times I wasn’t sure whose POV the chapter was from. As a reader this made me feel a little zoomed out from the story, like I wasn’t seeing it from either of their points of view, rather, I was watching from above.
Overall I liked the characters but didn’t feel much for any of them. Saying that, it is more of a world building and plot driven story and I enjoyed watching them go about their adventures.
The relationships were friendship and family/siblings. I feel like there could have been more depth to these and we just got to see the surface of it.
World Building and setting
As I said before, this was the highlight of the book for me! There is a feeling of depth to the world building and the author has obviously worked hard on everything that went into it.
I loved the way the modern Japanese setting contrasted with the other world. Both were easy to imagine and the descriptions made me feel like I was watching an anime show the whole time which I really loved!
The magic was quite mysterious and unexplained, but was believable and made me want to know more. I liked the combination of fighting and magic.
Summary
Overall a well written, and well thought out book. But I’m giving it 3.5 stars because I would have enjoyed it more if I got to know the characters better and if I had paid more attention to the details. If you are looking for an anime vibes with action packed fight scenes this is the book for you.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2021
"Sometimes, fear can be more detrimental than the danger itself."
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Daybreak is a standalone urban fantasy story set in Japan that focuses on a secret group of demon hunters called Rev'er Hunters. It follows the lead protagonists as they figure out the sudden suspicious nature of the Rev'ers in their world, and discover that humans aren't the only ones existing in the universe. This book reminded me a little bit of the Shadowhunter Chronicles mixed with the complexities of interdimensional planes like in the DC Comics tv shows and Rick and Morty. It was a real thrill to see all these elements come together and unfold into one great story, and I could also totally see this book as a great anime.
Plot-wise, it was very straightforward. It started off a bit slow as it slowly introduces the readers to the world's background and lore, and the characters' history and quirks. It wasn't only until that I got to the middle part of the book that primarily focused on one of the main characters' flashbacks that I got more invested into the story, and things were started to pick up from that point onwards. The battle scenes packed a lot of punch, and complimented the world and characters greatly. Although, I've always been not a fan of a lot of talk in between fighting characters, so that was a bad point for me just based on my personal taste. The progression of the book really followed the typical flow of a great story-telling, and I liked how clean, simple, and heartwarming the ending was.
The world-building was great. I liked the familiarity of the Japanese culture was mixed with the author's own world. It just really gave off huge manga/anime vibes just by the worlds alone. The magic system and lore in this book were a bit confusing at first, but once you get past it, it's actually pretty well-done. I always adore magic systems that have a huge drawback towards the yielders if used in excessive amounts, so I'm giving some brownie points there.
The dynamic between the characters were amazing, and it was something that totally gave the story even more power. It was such an experience seeing everyone interact with one another, especially Mafuyu and Mirai, and develop bonds amongst them. The multi-POV storyline was also a great help in knowing much more about the characters. Mirai, by far, is my most favorite character in this book, and I both got happy and sad at the journey he had to take.
Over-all, it is a really great debut novel for a budding new author. There were a few misses for me, but the great points were more than enough to make up for it. I could really recommend this to anyone who wants to read a non-traditional urban fantasy novel that they could consume in one sitting.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Daybreak is a standalone urban fantasy story set in Japan that focuses on a secret group of demon hunters called Rev'er Hunters. It follows the lead protagonists as they figure out the sudden suspicious nature of the Rev'ers in their world, and discover that humans aren't the only ones existing in the universe. This book reminded me a little bit of the Shadowhunter Chronicles mixed with the complexities of interdimensional planes like in the DC Comics tv shows and Rick and Morty. It was a real thrill to see all these elements come together and unfold into one great story, and I could also totally see this book as a great anime.
Plot-wise, it was very straightforward. It started off a bit slow as it slowly introduces the readers to the world's background and lore, and the characters' history and quirks. It wasn't only until that I got to the middle part of the book that primarily focused on one of the main characters' flashbacks that I got more invested into the story, and things were started to pick up from that point onwards. The battle scenes packed a lot of punch, and complimented the world and characters greatly. Although, I've always been not a fan of a lot of talk in between fighting characters, so that was a bad point for me just based on my personal taste. The progression of the book really followed the typical flow of a great story-telling, and I liked how clean, simple, and heartwarming the ending was.
The world-building was great. I liked the familiarity of the Japanese culture was mixed with the author's own world. It just really gave off huge manga/anime vibes just by the worlds alone. The magic system and lore in this book were a bit confusing at first, but once you get past it, it's actually pretty well-done. I always adore magic systems that have a huge drawback towards the yielders if used in excessive amounts, so I'm giving some brownie points there.
The dynamic between the characters were amazing, and it was something that totally gave the story even more power. It was such an experience seeing everyone interact with one another, especially Mafuyu and Mirai, and develop bonds amongst them. The multi-POV storyline was also a great help in knowing much more about the characters. Mirai, by far, is my most favorite character in this book, and I both got happy and sad at the journey he had to take.
Over-all, it is a really great debut novel for a budding new author. There were a few misses for me, but the great points were more than enough to make up for it. I could really recommend this to anyone who wants to read a non-traditional urban fantasy novel that they could consume in one sitting.
February 26, 2021
In AJ Navab's debut novel Daybreak, the world is not as simple as it seems. Normal humans go about their normal lives doing normal things but not Hunters. They see the monsters that slip through the worlds' cracks, and only they can banish them. And through the centuries, this is what they've done. However, as attacks from these monsters or Rev'ers begin to grow in intensity and frequency, the Hunters fear that something larger is looming. Elite Hunter Mafuyu is sent to protect former Hunter Mirai who is seen as a likely target. Mirai, weary of violence and destruction, just wants to tend his flower shop in peace. He wants to forget his dark past. However, as the weeks go by, it becomes clear that he must face what happened all those years ago. He can no longer hide, and with Mafuyu's help, he must confront it head on, or the worlds will fall.
This novel was slow to get off the ground. While Navab quickly introduces the conflict between the Rev'ers and the Hunters, the pace slows considerably when Mafuyu receives his mission to guard Mirai. It is evident that Mirai and Mafuyu are wary of each other, both keeping secrets, yet they develop a close friendship. It isn't until Mirai's secrets are unveiled that the pace resumes a steady clip, leading the readers on an engrossing fantasy journey full of devious plots, betrayal, tragedy, and triumph. The third person selective point-of-view shifts mainly between Mirai and Mafuyu, and these shifts give readers better insight into the protagonists actions and motivations while still keeping certain things hidden.
While the pacing was a bit off and some characterization seemed rushed, I really enjoyed this novel. It was quite engrossing. I loved learning about Mirai’s past and the direction the novel took as it rushed to its climax. I think fans of the Supernatural and fantasy novels will enjoy this book, and I give it 3.75/5 stars.
This novel was slow to get off the ground. While Navab quickly introduces the conflict between the Rev'ers and the Hunters, the pace slows considerably when Mafuyu receives his mission to guard Mirai. It is evident that Mirai and Mafuyu are wary of each other, both keeping secrets, yet they develop a close friendship. It isn't until Mirai's secrets are unveiled that the pace resumes a steady clip, leading the readers on an engrossing fantasy journey full of devious plots, betrayal, tragedy, and triumph. The third person selective point-of-view shifts mainly between Mirai and Mafuyu, and these shifts give readers better insight into the protagonists actions and motivations while still keeping certain things hidden.
While the pacing was a bit off and some characterization seemed rushed, I really enjoyed this novel. It was quite engrossing. I loved learning about Mirai’s past and the direction the novel took as it rushed to its climax. I think fans of the Supernatural and fantasy novels will enjoy this book, and I give it 3.75/5 stars.
February 1, 2021
The author sent me a free copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I really really liked this book! I would probably never have made the time to pick it up if I had not been asked to read it, since I rarely choose books that don't have a romance as a central part of them. But this book reminded me how much I love stories about love between friends and siblings.
The world-building is fantastic. The story is an urban fantasy set in modern-day Japan, with magic and demons and an alternate/parallel world. It took me some concentration to read because I am not used to such complex world-building, but I thought it was amazing. It felt so real with the way it's written and some of the little moments in it, and that's one of the things I love about urban fantasy novels. I think anyone who is a fan of action-packed fantasy and found family stories.
The dynamic between all the characters was so sweet. Mirai was absolutely not what I expected and I fell in love with him! Mafuyu and Mirai's friendship was so pure and I resonate so much with relationships like that--it made me smile and made my heart grow three sizes.
The story was a bit of a slow build into everything, and there's kind of a plot twist and time jump about a quarter of the way into the book, which really took me by surprise but I really liked how it played out and I think it suited the story well. Then in the end the battle scenes were incredibly detailed--one of my biggest pet peeves is when the protagonist of the story wins the big end-of-book or end-of-series boss battle so easily, and that was not the case in this story. There was action, magic, and epicness.
Anyway, I highly recommend checking this out! I'm so glad I was given the opportunity to read it.
I really really liked this book! I would probably never have made the time to pick it up if I had not been asked to read it, since I rarely choose books that don't have a romance as a central part of them. But this book reminded me how much I love stories about love between friends and siblings.
The world-building is fantastic. The story is an urban fantasy set in modern-day Japan, with magic and demons and an alternate/parallel world. It took me some concentration to read because I am not used to such complex world-building, but I thought it was amazing. It felt so real with the way it's written and some of the little moments in it, and that's one of the things I love about urban fantasy novels. I think anyone who is a fan of action-packed fantasy and found family stories.
The dynamic between all the characters was so sweet. Mirai was absolutely not what I expected and I fell in love with him! Mafuyu and Mirai's friendship was so pure and I resonate so much with relationships like that--it made me smile and made my heart grow three sizes.
The story was a bit of a slow build into everything, and there's kind of a plot twist and time jump about a quarter of the way into the book, which really took me by surprise but I really liked how it played out and I think it suited the story well. Then in the end the battle scenes were incredibly detailed--one of my biggest pet peeves is when the protagonist of the story wins the big end-of-book or end-of-series boss battle so easily, and that was not the case in this story. There was action, magic, and epicness.
Anyway, I highly recommend checking this out! I'm so glad I was given the opportunity to read it.
March 18, 2021
The author sent me a free copy of the e-book for an honest review.
Daybreak is a story that takes place in Japan wherein a group of Rev'er hunters protects the world from Rev'ers - creatures from another world that only the Hunters could see. In here we follow two characters - Mafuyu and Mirai. Mafuyu is assigned to work with former Hunter, Mirai, as sudden suspicious events take place. This book kind of reminds me of the anime series I watched before. Maybe that's one of the reasons why I like this book.
The world building was complex but wonderfully made. And as someone who is quite familiar with the Japanese setting, I can really picture the places described here. As I was reading the book, I can almost see the characters as actual anime characters in an actual animated Japanese setting. The writing style is easy to engage to. It made me feel what the characters are feeling and I can see the scenes playing in my head like I am watching an actual anime. The author also used some Japanese words in the book and I love it!
The characters are definitely unique and different in their own way. The multiple POVs in this book just made it even better because the readers get to see a glimpse of the thoughts of the characters. And it made me love the characters so much especially Mirai and his bond with Mafuyu.
Though I must say, the start of the book was kind of slow for me. However, when I reached the middle of the book, I became more invested into reading because things just got more complicated and interesting.
This book is action packed with an interesting magic system. If this becomes an anime series, I'd definitely watch it!
Daybreak is a story that takes place in Japan wherein a group of Rev'er hunters protects the world from Rev'ers - creatures from another world that only the Hunters could see. In here we follow two characters - Mafuyu and Mirai. Mafuyu is assigned to work with former Hunter, Mirai, as sudden suspicious events take place. This book kind of reminds me of the anime series I watched before. Maybe that's one of the reasons why I like this book.
The world building was complex but wonderfully made. And as someone who is quite familiar with the Japanese setting, I can really picture the places described here. As I was reading the book, I can almost see the characters as actual anime characters in an actual animated Japanese setting. The writing style is easy to engage to. It made me feel what the characters are feeling and I can see the scenes playing in my head like I am watching an actual anime. The author also used some Japanese words in the book and I love it!
The characters are definitely unique and different in their own way. The multiple POVs in this book just made it even better because the readers get to see a glimpse of the thoughts of the characters. And it made me love the characters so much especially Mirai and his bond with Mafuyu.
Though I must say, the start of the book was kind of slow for me. However, when I reached the middle of the book, I became more invested into reading because things just got more complicated and interesting.
This book is action packed with an interesting magic system. If this becomes an anime series, I'd definitely watch it!
January 30, 2021
This book was So. Unexpectedly. Good!!
The author contacted me on Instagram to offer me a copy of her book to read for review. Because I'm a picky reader, I downloaded the sample on Amazon first. I was immediately interested in this world and story, so gratefully accepted the offered book.
The short summary of this story is basically that is about Japanese demon hunters. We have 18 year old Mafuyu and 29 year old Mirai. Mafuyu is a hunter of "Rev'ers" - demons that only some can see. He's assigned to work with former Hunter, Mirai, but soon we find out that there's much more to Mirai than meets the eye, and his secrets could threaten the world itself.
There's a parallel world, lots of magic, some compelling backstory for Mirai, and lots of magical fights as they try to save two worlds from the bad guys.
The world building is really great. I loved the uniqueness of the human setting being in Japan. Some might find the magic system a little "deus ex machina" but personally I love magic in books and found it a heap of fun. I saw a review describe it as "like reading an anime movie", and I could totally picture that for the fight scenes.
There is no romance in this story, but some really lovely found family and friendship relationships that I absolutely loved. Mirai and Mafuyu's bromance is all the heart eyes.
A fresh, unique take on the demon hunter concept and I loved it.
The author contacted me on Instagram to offer me a copy of her book to read for review. Because I'm a picky reader, I downloaded the sample on Amazon first. I was immediately interested in this world and story, so gratefully accepted the offered book.
The short summary of this story is basically that is about Japanese demon hunters. We have 18 year old Mafuyu and 29 year old Mirai. Mafuyu is a hunter of "Rev'ers" - demons that only some can see. He's assigned to work with former Hunter, Mirai, but soon we find out that there's much more to Mirai than meets the eye, and his secrets could threaten the world itself.
There's a parallel world, lots of magic, some compelling backstory for Mirai, and lots of magical fights as they try to save two worlds from the bad guys.
The world building is really great. I loved the uniqueness of the human setting being in Japan. Some might find the magic system a little "deus ex machina" but personally I love magic in books and found it a heap of fun. I saw a review describe it as "like reading an anime movie", and I could totally picture that for the fight scenes.
There is no romance in this story, but some really lovely found family and friendship relationships that I absolutely loved. Mirai and Mafuyu's bromance is all the heart eyes.
A fresh, unique take on the demon hunter concept and I loved it.
March 28, 2021
Thank you to author A.J Navab for sending me copy of your book.
Daybreak is an urban fantasy set in modern Japan with a touch of what feels like at first is like a manga or anime like.
The story concept is pretty interesting and the start hooked me instantly because of how it felt like a manga style of storytelling in a way. With our main character dealing with demon creatures, what could I ask more? Totally my cup of tea story.
The fighting scenes were written well, I enjoy them and really find them cinematically done like how manga tells you.
However, I would like to point out many things that really didn't go well with me.
First, the characterization. The characters were supposed to be Japanese, but they did not felt like it. Or the were not and I might have missed those details but yes, I didn't feel like the story was set in Japan.
The characters didn't stood well to me or I felt that they weren't just written in a way I would want to. I could not get attached to me in the aspect of caring in to that character.
Although at firts, I was really intrigued about them, curious about their background but even after knowing them on that deep level, I just don't care about them.
Overall, I find Daybreak a pretty much okay. The potential was there and could have been better. The writing was good, it was easy to get into. But that just it. The characterization was pretty much lacking and disappointing. 3⭐
Daybreak is an urban fantasy set in modern Japan with a touch of what feels like at first is like a manga or anime like.
The story concept is pretty interesting and the start hooked me instantly because of how it felt like a manga style of storytelling in a way. With our main character dealing with demon creatures, what could I ask more? Totally my cup of tea story.
The fighting scenes were written well, I enjoy them and really find them cinematically done like how manga tells you.
However, I would like to point out many things that really didn't go well with me.
First, the characterization. The characters were supposed to be Japanese, but they did not felt like it. Or the were not and I might have missed those details but yes, I didn't feel like the story was set in Japan.
The characters didn't stood well to me or I felt that they weren't just written in a way I would want to. I could not get attached to me in the aspect of caring in to that character.
Although at firts, I was really intrigued about them, curious about their background but even after knowing them on that deep level, I just don't care about them.
Overall, I find Daybreak a pretty much okay. The potential was there and could have been better. The writing was good, it was easy to get into. But that just it. The characterization was pretty much lacking and disappointing. 3⭐
April 2, 2021
✨Daybreak by A. J. Navab✨
Rating - 3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Daybreak is a supernatural Fantasy set in Japan. The world had a very anime like quality to the story and I really loved that.
It’s a world full of demons, or Rev’ers as their hunters call them. Nobody on earth knows of their existence except the hunters, and they want to keep it that way.
But then the Rev’ers change their behaviour pattern, and start causing destruction in the world.
Mafuyu is a hunter and he has a new assignment, to take care of a boy called Mirai; an ex hunter for reasons we don’t know. I liked how their relationship built from not knowing one another, to unspoken caring for each other like family.
I found the first levels, bezaleel’s arrival and the different demons quite confusing. The story started really great but then there was a lot of info packed in and I was quite confused. For a new world building, I think the author did well but felt it could have been explained a little better.
As the demons slip through cracks in the world, the hunters are the only ones who can stop them, and there are some really good action scenes where I was visualising an anime world.
I feel like this world could have been much bigger and better, and the story has potential for it to expand out to more books. I did enjoy it overall, I just found the cramming in of info into a short book a bit overwhelming.
This is definitely one for supernatural fantasy lovers.
Rating - 3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Daybreak is a supernatural Fantasy set in Japan. The world had a very anime like quality to the story and I really loved that.
It’s a world full of demons, or Rev’ers as their hunters call them. Nobody on earth knows of their existence except the hunters, and they want to keep it that way.
But then the Rev’ers change their behaviour pattern, and start causing destruction in the world.
Mafuyu is a hunter and he has a new assignment, to take care of a boy called Mirai; an ex hunter for reasons we don’t know. I liked how their relationship built from not knowing one another, to unspoken caring for each other like family.
I found the first levels, bezaleel’s arrival and the different demons quite confusing. The story started really great but then there was a lot of info packed in and I was quite confused. For a new world building, I think the author did well but felt it could have been explained a little better.
As the demons slip through cracks in the world, the hunters are the only ones who can stop them, and there are some really good action scenes where I was visualising an anime world.
I feel like this world could have been much bigger and better, and the story has potential for it to expand out to more books. I did enjoy it overall, I just found the cramming in of info into a short book a bit overwhelming.
This is definitely one for supernatural fantasy lovers.
January 30, 2021
cookiereads Daybreak by A.J. Navab (@ameena_jn ) 📜
Mafuyu is a hunter who hunts demon called Re’vers. Re’vers are classified by three levels with the third being the easiest to hunt and the first level the hardest to recognize. He is assigned to be a bodyguard to a former hunter Mirai. 📜
Mirai is a former hunter who now own a flower shop. Mirai is the only hunter to have first hand knowledge of the harm the first level Re’vers can do. The first level Re’vers destroyed his home and took away everything Mirai ever loved. He too is asked by the hunters to look after Mafuyu. 📜
Who is telling the truth? What is so special about Mirai and Mafuyu? 📜
Furiends I was surprised! This is a good book!!! The book takes place in Japan and the author describes it so well!!! Also the book flowed very well. There is a backstory to Mirai but it flowed so well with the book. I have a hard time believing this is Ms. Navab debut novel. She writes like a seasoned author. 📜
I don’t know if this book is intended as a series or a standalone book (I hope this is a series) but it was an excellent book!! I hope to read more from this author!! 📜
3.5 paws out of four paws. #fantasybooks #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #dogsreadingbooks #corgisofinstagram #corgilife
Mafuyu is a hunter who hunts demon called Re’vers. Re’vers are classified by three levels with the third being the easiest to hunt and the first level the hardest to recognize. He is assigned to be a bodyguard to a former hunter Mirai. 📜
Mirai is a former hunter who now own a flower shop. Mirai is the only hunter to have first hand knowledge of the harm the first level Re’vers can do. The first level Re’vers destroyed his home and took away everything Mirai ever loved. He too is asked by the hunters to look after Mafuyu. 📜
Who is telling the truth? What is so special about Mirai and Mafuyu? 📜
Furiends I was surprised! This is a good book!!! The book takes place in Japan and the author describes it so well!!! Also the book flowed very well. There is a backstory to Mirai but it flowed so well with the book. I have a hard time believing this is Ms. Navab debut novel. She writes like a seasoned author. 📜
I don’t know if this book is intended as a series or a standalone book (I hope this is a series) but it was an excellent book!! I hope to read more from this author!! 📜
3.5 paws out of four paws. #fantasybooks #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #dogsreadingbooks #corgisofinstagram #corgilife
February 21, 2021
Set in Japan, the story follows a group of Hunters who protect the ignorant world of Rev'ers, demon-like creatures from another world. But things are shifting, secrets are revealed and chaos is taking over...
The world-building throughout this book was so great. Though it was quite complex, the author did a wonderful job of explaining it! She also has fantastic character building skills! I loved the dynamic she created between the different characters. I especially loved the brotherly bond between Mirai and Mafuyu.
By using multiple POVs, you get to know the main character on a deeper level which made the story even better. There's also a little flashback in the middle of the book in which you get to know who Mirai is. Though I liked getting more background information on him, I did feel it made the book more complex than it needed to be.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book and I was so happy to read a clean ending. So if you're looking for an action-packed urban fantasy novel, I highly suggest you give Daybreak a try! This original take on the demon-hunter story will not disappoint!
Many thanks to the author for gifting me an e-copy in exchange for an honest review!
The world-building throughout this book was so great. Though it was quite complex, the author did a wonderful job of explaining it! She also has fantastic character building skills! I loved the dynamic she created between the different characters. I especially loved the brotherly bond between Mirai and Mafuyu.
By using multiple POVs, you get to know the main character on a deeper level which made the story even better. There's also a little flashback in the middle of the book in which you get to know who Mirai is. Though I liked getting more background information on him, I did feel it made the book more complex than it needed to be.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book and I was so happy to read a clean ending. So if you're looking for an action-packed urban fantasy novel, I highly suggest you give Daybreak a try! This original take on the demon-hunter story will not disappoint!
Many thanks to the author for gifting me an e-copy in exchange for an honest review!
April 19, 2021
Exact rating: 3.7 stars.
Firstly, I would like to thank the author AJ Navab for sending this amazing story my way! And thank you for being super patient with me!
At first, all I knew about this book is that it has demons in it! So I'm sold immediately! Then I knew it was set in Japan, I couldn't wait to get into it!
I would like to say that AJ made me feel like I was in Japan again. I have always been very interested in Japan, and this book made me feel like I was in my beloved vacation two years back!
In this world, there are a group of people known as Hunters who protect our world from demons. Hunters refers them as Rev'ers. I love how this book makes us question what we know about demons.
Rev'ers however are usually dark creatures from another world. We follow two characters: Mafuyu, a hunter that is tasked to protect an ex-hunter, Mirai.
This book would make you question how can this author be so creative?! This story felt like an anime in book form. It kinda took me a long time to get through the first few chapters, but when the action started,
I couldn't stop reading!
I would recommend this book if you like action-packed scenarios that's mixed with paranormal aspects! And definitely, if you like shonen anime, this is the book for you!
Firstly, I would like to thank the author AJ Navab for sending this amazing story my way! And thank you for being super patient with me!
At first, all I knew about this book is that it has demons in it! So I'm sold immediately! Then I knew it was set in Japan, I couldn't wait to get into it!
I would like to say that AJ made me feel like I was in Japan again. I have always been very interested in Japan, and this book made me feel like I was in my beloved vacation two years back!
In this world, there are a group of people known as Hunters who protect our world from demons. Hunters refers them as Rev'ers. I love how this book makes us question what we know about demons.
Rev'ers however are usually dark creatures from another world. We follow two characters: Mafuyu, a hunter that is tasked to protect an ex-hunter, Mirai.
This book would make you question how can this author be so creative?! This story felt like an anime in book form. It kinda took me a long time to get through the first few chapters, but when the action started,
I couldn't stop reading!
I would recommend this book if you like action-packed scenarios that's mixed with paranormal aspects! And definitely, if you like shonen anime, this is the book for you!
January 13, 2021
Reading a fantasy book is always refreshing as it takes the mind to a different world.
This book is a fantasy novel. The story is about Mayufu who is a hunter of Rev'ers, a type of monster. From his childhood he could see things that others couldn’t and was treated as a freak by everyone including his parents. So one night unable to take anymore he runs away and is met by a young man who introduces him to this world of hunters and he becomes one of them. What happens next I will avoid saying to maintain interest.
I took time to get used to this book but after about 50 pages I was drawn in the story and enjoyed it. The book is 300+ pages so it is a bit long. The language is medium. One helpful thing is the pronunciation guide provided at the end for the character’s name, this was a helpful touch.
One more point is that you have to be patient to read this book so that you understand the plot better. For the cover I would say it is beautifully done and anime lovers would be instantly drawn to it. I won’t recommend this book to beginners but fantasy lovers should definitely check this out.
This book is a fantasy novel. The story is about Mayufu who is a hunter of Rev'ers, a type of monster. From his childhood he could see things that others couldn’t and was treated as a freak by everyone including his parents. So one night unable to take anymore he runs away and is met by a young man who introduces him to this world of hunters and he becomes one of them. What happens next I will avoid saying to maintain interest.
I took time to get used to this book but after about 50 pages I was drawn in the story and enjoyed it. The book is 300+ pages so it is a bit long. The language is medium. One helpful thing is the pronunciation guide provided at the end for the character’s name, this was a helpful touch.
One more point is that you have to be patient to read this book so that you understand the plot better. For the cover I would say it is beautifully done and anime lovers would be instantly drawn to it. I won’t recommend this book to beginners but fantasy lovers should definitely check this out.
February 28, 2021
The author provided me free e-copy of this book in exchange of an honest review. Daybreak is a story about hunters protecting our world from Rev’ers. They’re demons from some other worlds.There’re first,second and third level Rev’ers and the most dangerous ones are first levels. The story sets in Japan.
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It’s multiple POV which I love to read. We can experience all of the characters feelings,thoughts ect.The world building was good. Author did a great job with describing situations. I was able to visualize them in my head,it felt like rather than reading, I was watching the story! I loved brotherly bond between Mafuyu and Mirai. Also Mirai’s backstory was well written.It was told as a flashback in the middle of the book but it didn’t bother me at all because we got to learn a lot about him. The story shapes around it. It was such a sad story. I felt really sorry for him. The world and character buildings was good but I would like to read more about Mafuyu’s past too.
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My final score is 3.5/5 ⭐️
If you love urban fantasy you should definitely check this book!
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It’s multiple POV which I love to read. We can experience all of the characters feelings,thoughts ect.The world building was good. Author did a great job with describing situations. I was able to visualize them in my head,it felt like rather than reading, I was watching the story! I loved brotherly bond between Mafuyu and Mirai. Also Mirai’s backstory was well written.It was told as a flashback in the middle of the book but it didn’t bother me at all because we got to learn a lot about him. The story shapes around it. It was such a sad story. I felt really sorry for him. The world and character buildings was good but I would like to read more about Mafuyu’s past too.
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My final score is 3.5/5 ⭐️
If you love urban fantasy you should definitely check this book!
January 25, 2021
If you are a fan of urban fantasy then add this to your TBR list. The blend of modern technology and magic is subtle and feels natural as the story progresses. Set in Japan, you are instantly transported into the world and lives of these hunters.
Right from the first page I was hooked. The story follows demon hunters - the demons known in this world as Rev’ers. These creatures are from another world and threatening the balance between theirs and ours. At the end of each chapter I was forced to keep reading so I could know what happened next!
Mafuyu and Mirai are two of the main characters. The character development of these two is well thought out and rounded but so is every character. While the book is told from multiple POV, each character voice is distinctive and engaging and easy to follow.
If you are a fan of Shadow and the Fox by Julie Kagawa then you will enjoy this wonderful urban fantasy.
February 22, 2021
Rate : 4.0
I just finished this book yesterday and I love it! I want to talk about the plot first. It's fun to read and every event is explained intensely. The prologue really interests me. Stories that bring up monsters or demons from other worlds are the best!! Actually I felt bored when reading the first chapter but the story is developing in a good way so it's really worth to read.
The characters are very unique. I love Mafuyu's character development. Actually, both Mafuyu and Mirai but I prefer Mafuyu haha. The best thing about this book is that the author provides a strong backstory to the character that lets us know more about the character's feelings. I think this book really needs a sequel. I can't wait to read it!
And thanks to the author who gave me the free e-copy of this book. So glad I found a good story 🤍🤍
I just finished this book yesterday and I love it! I want to talk about the plot first. It's fun to read and every event is explained intensely. The prologue really interests me. Stories that bring up monsters or demons from other worlds are the best!! Actually I felt bored when reading the first chapter but the story is developing in a good way so it's really worth to read.
The characters are very unique. I love Mafuyu's character development. Actually, both Mafuyu and Mirai but I prefer Mafuyu haha. The best thing about this book is that the author provides a strong backstory to the character that lets us know more about the character's feelings. I think this book really needs a sequel. I can't wait to read it!
And thanks to the author who gave me the free e-copy of this book. So glad I found a good story 🤍🤍
March 4, 2021
I have been given this book as gift to read and review from Navab. Fantasy is my second favourite genre so I couldn’t say no. I admit that I became a bit picky of my fantasy reads as after all the books I’ve read in this genre my expectations are quite high. However, this book left quite satisfied. The main idea, although I’ve seen it before, was well structured, cohesive and clear which is very important to me as I can picture in my head the world and it’s customs easily. I like Navab’s writing too and the way she delivers and uses the characters feelings to evolve the plot. Overall I’m very happy with book! Hope we see more of Navab soon!
January 10, 2021
Final score : 4.5
I really liked it!
Story is well developed, it never slows down enough for you to get bored, it just gets more momentum. The characters are well rounded and somewhat relatable, I liked the world building and the magic system. I particularly liked the telling of Mirai's past; it was informative and emotional but didn't drag the story, on the contrary, it helped move it forward. Very enjoyable read and totally recommended for fantasy lovers!
I really liked it!
Story is well developed, it never slows down enough for you to get bored, it just gets more momentum. The characters are well rounded and somewhat relatable, I liked the world building and the magic system. I particularly liked the telling of Mirai's past; it was informative and emotional but didn't drag the story, on the contrary, it helped move it forward. Very enjoyable read and totally recommended for fantasy lovers!
January 28, 2021
WOW! What an amazing read 😍 The writing is incredible, it has a great flow to its events making it hard to put down and the descriptions were imaginative and beautifully worded. They made it easy to picture a scene as if it was practically a full fledged movie in my head. The PLOT TWISTS 🤭 I did not see any of it coming I actually had to take a minute to process. The characters were all interesting but Mafuyu and Mirai stole the show, the relationship between them was so wholesome it felt very connected and natural like they just clicked ❤️
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✨𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬✨
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✨𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬✨
April 22, 2021
Daybreak by Aj Navab is a really good fantasy-thriller read. I would recommend it to anyone that likes very high fantasy and action packed books. I liked it but not my favorite read as it has a lot of fantasy. I couldn't relate to the characters either which is something that I actually look for in a book. Overall a good read but it wasn't my cup of tea.
February 22, 2021
This book was different than my typical read but I really enjoyed it! I loved the whole monster hunter idea and I also really liked the story within a story! The relationship between Mafuyu and Mirai was so sweet and I want more! It had quite a bit of action to it so I was never bored. Towards the end I got a bit confused with all the characters but that was a fault on my end. A very well written and entertaining read.
March 25, 2021
A fun world to dive in to!
I liked the relationship between the two main characters (it's always nice to see focus on friendship), the 'demons' (technically not demons) were cool, & I learned a little bit of Japanese!
I enjoyed this book and really appreciate the author sending me a copy!!
I liked the relationship between the two main characters (it's always nice to see focus on friendship), the 'demons' (technically not demons) were cool, & I learned a little bit of Japanese!
I enjoyed this book and really appreciate the author sending me a copy!!
December 7, 2020
Loved and enjoyed every bit of it! It's a nice escape from reality...... Also Mirai 😍
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