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At the Break of Dawn
A Hero's Sacrifice
Four hundred years ago the Sun God was murdered, leaving the mortal realms living without the light of dawn, cursed with permanent night. Now, a humiliated and disgraced Goddess is emerging from her exile, bent on revenge. And somebody has started playing with the souls of mortals once more.
A Reluctant Ruler
Princess Neva Perenna has always shied away from her title. After her lands are attacked, she is abruptly embroiled in a coup attempting to dethrone her. The people meant to protect her have become infiltrated by those that oppose her rule, and she is left reeling in her grief while her kingdom falls apart. When she unexpectedly starts falling in love, she is left trying to untangle her heart from her duty to her people. Who she can trust, and who is working against her?
The Avatar
Saiel has never been close to his two older brothers. His people live as pariahs for blatantly consorting with the Gods who once laid ruin to the mortal realms. When his closest friend, Ryn, starts experiencing twisted and volatile visions, they begin to question the history they have been taught. Who are the true powers at play that descended the mortal realms into darkness?
Author's note:
It is not the author's intention to trigger anyone, therefore the following CW are present in this novel. If there is a trigger warning you think has been missed, please let the author know so she can update her list.
Described briefly: Infertility/miscarriage/pregnancy, racism, homophobia, sexual assault (mentioned via dialogue/no on page descriptions), drug use, self sacrifice
Described in greater detail: Death/grief, mental health, consensual sex between adults (M/F scenes, M/M scenes, BDSM), violence, swearing
This will be a series.
Four hundred years ago the Sun God was murdered, leaving the mortal realms living without the light of dawn, cursed with permanent night. Now, a humiliated and disgraced Goddess is emerging from her exile, bent on revenge. And somebody has started playing with the souls of mortals once more.
A Reluctant Ruler
Princess Neva Perenna has always shied away from her title. After her lands are attacked, she is abruptly embroiled in a coup attempting to dethrone her. The people meant to protect her have become infiltrated by those that oppose her rule, and she is left reeling in her grief while her kingdom falls apart. When she unexpectedly starts falling in love, she is left trying to untangle her heart from her duty to her people. Who she can trust, and who is working against her?
The Avatar
Saiel has never been close to his two older brothers. His people live as pariahs for blatantly consorting with the Gods who once laid ruin to the mortal realms. When his closest friend, Ryn, starts experiencing twisted and volatile visions, they begin to question the history they have been taught. Who are the true powers at play that descended the mortal realms into darkness?
Author's note:
It is not the author's intention to trigger anyone, therefore the following CW are present in this novel. If there is a trigger warning you think has been missed, please let the author know so she can update her list.
Described briefly: Infertility/miscarriage/pregnancy, racism, homophobia, sexual assault (mentioned via dialogue/no on page descriptions), drug use, self sacrifice
Described in greater detail: Death/grief, mental health, consensual sex between adults (M/F scenes, M/M scenes, BDSM), violence, swearing
This will be a series.
595 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2022
3 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Ellinor Pailing
2 books11 followersEllie was born in Sweden and then lived in Australia for 18 years. She now lives in the UK with her husband. Her fulltime job is as a scientist working in transfusion & transplantation science. She writes as a hobby and has two cats and a golden retriever.
You can follow her on Twitter (@breakofdawnfic) or TikTok (@at_the_break_of_dawn_fic)
You can follow her on Twitter (@breakofdawnfic) or TikTok (@at_the_break_of_dawn_fic)
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 24, 2022
I decided to make it my mission this year to read more indie author books, so when I came across a video on TikTok stating this one had all my favourite tropes (fated mates, slow burn, powers of the gods) I snapped it up very quickly. The book has multiple POVS; a young Princess called Neva who unexpectedly takes the throne; her best friend Hakon who is Captain of the Guard; and from a neighbouring Kingdom called Brenna, Saiel and his best friend Ryn who is the avatar for the God of Time.
If, like me, you’re loving Marvel’s new tv show Moon Knight, you will absolutely adore the magic system in this book. Brenna is ruled by three families, each of which have their ruler possessed by one of three gods. Before this book (and Moon Knight) I’d never read or consumed anything with this ‘inhabited-by-a-god’ trope, and it took me surprise by how much I enjoyed it. The scenario introduces an additional level of depth to the Gods, which I found remarkably interesting to read about. As in most of the books I have read, if Gods are involved in a plot, they have little to no character and come across very 2D.
I thought the book had a fab pace to it, but it really started kicking off around 100-page mark (meaning I did struggle to put it down for a while after despite needing to get up early the next day for a lecture!). It didn’t take me too long at all to get use to all the characters’ names (1-0 to high fantasy names managing to confuse me every time I start a new book); and even though being thrown in to 4 different first-person POVs was a little disorientating at the start, I did enjoy all the different views and opinions it allowed us of the story.
When it comes down to the plot itself, I was invested from the beginning with the attacks from an unknown assailant and the chaos in Brenna capturing my attention immediately. I’m thoroughly looking forward to the next book in the series, as the end of this one had a few twists and turns that had me at edge of my seat. As for the main romantic plot, I found it to be a little predictable at points, but nevertheless very entertaining to read – this is an ADULT fantasy book... I repeat: ADULT fantasy book.
By the end of this book, I had already thoroughly fallen in love with all the characters, which I’m accrediting to the amazing writing by Ellinor, especially as this is her debut and, to quote her, she just “wrote it for fun.” If you like what you’ve heard I highly recommend you check it out, it is available on Amazon in paperback, on Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
If, like me, you’re loving Marvel’s new tv show Moon Knight, you will absolutely adore the magic system in this book. Brenna is ruled by three families, each of which have their ruler possessed by one of three gods. Before this book (and Moon Knight) I’d never read or consumed anything with this ‘inhabited-by-a-god’ trope, and it took me surprise by how much I enjoyed it. The scenario introduces an additional level of depth to the Gods, which I found remarkably interesting to read about. As in most of the books I have read, if Gods are involved in a plot, they have little to no character and come across very 2D.
I thought the book had a fab pace to it, but it really started kicking off around 100-page mark (meaning I did struggle to put it down for a while after despite needing to get up early the next day for a lecture!). It didn’t take me too long at all to get use to all the characters’ names (1-0 to high fantasy names managing to confuse me every time I start a new book); and even though being thrown in to 4 different first-person POVs was a little disorientating at the start, I did enjoy all the different views and opinions it allowed us of the story.
When it comes down to the plot itself, I was invested from the beginning with the attacks from an unknown assailant and the chaos in Brenna capturing my attention immediately. I’m thoroughly looking forward to the next book in the series, as the end of this one had a few twists and turns that had me at edge of my seat. As for the main romantic plot, I found it to be a little predictable at points, but nevertheless very entertaining to read – this is an ADULT fantasy book... I repeat: ADULT fantasy book.
By the end of this book, I had already thoroughly fallen in love with all the characters, which I’m accrediting to the amazing writing by Ellinor, especially as this is her debut and, to quote her, she just “wrote it for fun.” If you like what you’ve heard I highly recommend you check it out, it is available on Amazon in paperback, on Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
April 30, 2022
Fantastic World to get lost in
This story has it all. Epic adventures, steamy romances, beautiful prose, drama and growth. It doesn’t take long to become captivated with the worldbuilding and in the main characters. Neva never wanted to be a princess but when events catapult her into becoming Queen, things don’t get any easier. The romance with her and Esra is so fleshed out.
The kingdom of Brenna has some of my all time favorite characters- Ryn, Saiel, and Phaire… incredible dynamic. Gods possessing mortal bodies… yes please. Soul bonds? I’m here for it. I’m a sucker for fated mates though that doesn’t quite play out as expected. I need more Phaire!
Pacing is great, there are multiple POVs so you get a full view of the world Pailing has put together.
I beta read this book in 2021 and then could not wait to buy it when it came out. I am eagerly waiting on book two after that ending!
This story has it all. Epic adventures, steamy romances, beautiful prose, drama and growth. It doesn’t take long to become captivated with the worldbuilding and in the main characters. Neva never wanted to be a princess but when events catapult her into becoming Queen, things don’t get any easier. The romance with her and Esra is so fleshed out.
The kingdom of Brenna has some of my all time favorite characters- Ryn, Saiel, and Phaire… incredible dynamic. Gods possessing mortal bodies… yes please. Soul bonds? I’m here for it. I’m a sucker for fated mates though that doesn’t quite play out as expected. I need more Phaire!
Pacing is great, there are multiple POVs so you get a full view of the world Pailing has put together.
I beta read this book in 2021 and then could not wait to buy it when it came out. I am eagerly waiting on book two after that ending!
October 24, 2022
Fantastic debut novel for this author and the start of what will surely be a great series. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to read the next one! EP, are you sure you haven’t written others?? Bc it definitely read like a seasoned author 😊
Loved the open concepts of this book! The mental dilemmas that the characters faced, the social constructs/dilemmas that mirror real world, the relationships, the spice (there was a little 🌶️ in there 😉), the characters themselves…all *chef’s kiss*. Anytime Esra says “…my Queen…” I’m instantly melted, whew! 🥵
This is written in multiple POVs, all from 3rd person. But I gotta say, the POV I was really wishing was in there (Esra) only got a little blip towards the end. I desperately wanted to know what he was thinking during a lot of moments. But it would have only enhanced an otherwise well crafted story.
The gods/goddesses plot was a newer one for me (outside of retellings of gods/goddesses that we know historically, i.e. mythology) and I really enjoyed it! The avatar/soulbinding concepts were pretty interesting and I was/am excited to read/learn more. EP has definitely crafted an exciting world, and I have so many questions that will hopefully be answered in the following books.
Ok, so now for that ending…😳 It does end on a CH. I was NOT prepared and I was quite upset (I may have even cursed this author out a little). But only bc I fell so hard in love with her characters and that was not the ending *we* worked so hard for! 🤣 As if I didn’t already plan on reading the next one, that pretty much sealed the deal!
Overall, great read, especially if you’re looking for a longer read and also looking to support lesser known authors. Also if you’re a fellow woman in STEM! 🥰 I love that she’s a scientist by day and basically moonlights as an author. 💕 So yea, I highly recommend!! 💯✌🏼🤙🏼
Loved the open concepts of this book! The mental dilemmas that the characters faced, the social constructs/dilemmas that mirror real world, the relationships, the spice (there was a little 🌶️ in there 😉), the characters themselves…all *chef’s kiss*. Anytime Esra says “…my Queen…” I’m instantly melted, whew! 🥵
This is written in multiple POVs, all from 3rd person. But I gotta say, the POV I was really wishing was in there (Esra) only got a little blip towards the end. I desperately wanted to know what he was thinking during a lot of moments. But it would have only enhanced an otherwise well crafted story.
The gods/goddesses plot was a newer one for me (outside of retellings of gods/goddesses that we know historically, i.e. mythology) and I really enjoyed it! The avatar/soulbinding concepts were pretty interesting and I was/am excited to read/learn more. EP has definitely crafted an exciting world, and I have so many questions that will hopefully be answered in the following books.
Ok, so now for that ending…😳 It does end on a CH. I was NOT prepared and I was quite upset (I may have even cursed this author out a little). But only bc I fell so hard in love with her characters and that was not the ending *we* worked so hard for! 🤣 As if I didn’t already plan on reading the next one, that pretty much sealed the deal!
Overall, great read, especially if you’re looking for a longer read and also looking to support lesser known authors. Also if you’re a fellow woman in STEM! 🥰 I love that she’s a scientist by day and basically moonlights as an author. 💕 So yea, I highly recommend!! 💯✌🏼🤙🏼
April 8, 2022
POTENTIAL SPOILERS - READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!
First of all, I'd love to thank Ellinor for the Arc copy of At the Break of Dawn. It had such a wonderful time reading the fantastic debut. And as far as debut novels go, this is easily the most suspenseful, exciting, romantic, tragic and even funny at times, debut I've ever read.
What I love most about Ellinor's writing is her ability to capture a scene or a moment perfectly, without bogging you down in info dump, which is great if - like me - you forget quite easily the numerous terminologies and roles each character has. The handy glossary in the book allowed me to remind myself quickly of who each of the many god/goddesses was and their roles, instead of having to flip back through the book to remind myself.
The characters are what make a book, and this is most certainly true here. Several POV's allow us a look into the minds of vastly different people, each with their own wants and fears. Neva is a headstrong woman who knows what she wants; yet also shows genuine moments of hesitance and self doubt, especially when thrown into the pressures of ruling. The romance between her and her love interest (you'll have to read to find out who) is a delicious slow burn, will they, wont they, which culminated in me cheering out loud. Hakon is snarky, quick witted and sarcastic. But at the core of his character is someone fiercely loyal and protective. And on the other side of a divided world there is Saiel, a hesitant and self depreciating young man who has to quickly master powers he thought he would never inherit; and Ryn, desperate for answers about his families death that he might not be ready for - especially when he starts experiencing violent visions.
The story is unique and offers plenty of twists, turns, and an ending that leaves you itching to read more. And the Foreshadowing? OMG, the Foreshadowing!
There are some content warnings touching on subjects not intended for the faint of heart, but Ellinor has covered a lot of them in the books description. Sex scenes - both M/M and F/M are done tastefully well - and the other subjects, such as racism, homophobia and sexual assault, are handled in a very respectful and mindful of the reader.
All in all, this book deserves all the attention it gets... and more. It made me laugh, cry, gasp and physically scream... in the best way possible. And I need the subsequent books now, just so I can get the closure I desperately need.
First of all, I'd love to thank Ellinor for the Arc copy of At the Break of Dawn. It had such a wonderful time reading the fantastic debut. And as far as debut novels go, this is easily the most suspenseful, exciting, romantic, tragic and even funny at times, debut I've ever read.
What I love most about Ellinor's writing is her ability to capture a scene or a moment perfectly, without bogging you down in info dump, which is great if - like me - you forget quite easily the numerous terminologies and roles each character has. The handy glossary in the book allowed me to remind myself quickly of who each of the many god/goddesses was and their roles, instead of having to flip back through the book to remind myself.
The characters are what make a book, and this is most certainly true here. Several POV's allow us a look into the minds of vastly different people, each with their own wants and fears. Neva is a headstrong woman who knows what she wants; yet also shows genuine moments of hesitance and self doubt, especially when thrown into the pressures of ruling. The romance between her and her love interest (you'll have to read to find out who) is a delicious slow burn, will they, wont they, which culminated in me cheering out loud. Hakon is snarky, quick witted and sarcastic. But at the core of his character is someone fiercely loyal and protective. And on the other side of a divided world there is Saiel, a hesitant and self depreciating young man who has to quickly master powers he thought he would never inherit; and Ryn, desperate for answers about his families death that he might not be ready for - especially when he starts experiencing violent visions.
The story is unique and offers plenty of twists, turns, and an ending that leaves you itching to read more. And the Foreshadowing? OMG, the Foreshadowing!
There are some content warnings touching on subjects not intended for the faint of heart, but Ellinor has covered a lot of them in the books description. Sex scenes - both M/M and F/M are done tastefully well - and the other subjects, such as racism, homophobia and sexual assault, are handled in a very respectful and mindful of the reader.
All in all, this book deserves all the attention it gets... and more. It made me laugh, cry, gasp and physically scream... in the best way possible. And I need the subsequent books now, just so I can get the closure I desperately need.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2022
I was lucky enough to read this book as a beta reader back in December of 2021 and I really enjoyed the book. Here are my thoughts! Ellinor Pailing
The book is centered around kingdoms having a respective God that is tied to the rulers. They are tied to them through altars in the kingdom. If an altar is broken by another God the God can die. The Gods therefore end up helping protect the kingdoms. There is a vengeful god out to get revenge and a murdered sun god has made the mortal realm be in darkness. Here is more information on breakdown using the ESCAPE method for book ratings.
Total points: 47 so a 4.5 rating but rating up to 5 star
Ending- it was really good and sets up for the next book in the series. I am very hooked and invested in the characters.
Style/Pacing- I felt that it flowed good, the pacing was spot on and it just overall kept me hooked all the way through.
Characters- I loved Neva and her struggle, she deals with racism due to being bi-racial and I really liked her strength and coming into her own. The love interest for Neva is just gahhh! I loved him and I think you will too. I want to see what happens next for them. Ryn- he turned out to be one of my favorite characters, he is sarcastic and battling with his sexuality and having to produce an heir.
Atmosphere/ World building- The setting makes me want to be there and not all at the same time given the circumstances. I liked the concept of the gods and alters, it was creative and really cool to see.
Plot- The premise of the book is unique, creative and addictive. The author intertwined the use of serious subjects in a way that does not dismiss them and we see the characters supporting one another through them, racism, homophobia, substance abuse and infertility are present but they are not so heavy that it become too hard to read.
Enjoyment- I really enjoyed the book, the spice was nice, there is a F/M and M/M spice scenes. I would recommend the book and cannot wait for the series.
CW: racism, homophobia, substance abuse and infertility/ miscarriage
The book is centered around kingdoms having a respective God that is tied to the rulers. They are tied to them through altars in the kingdom. If an altar is broken by another God the God can die. The Gods therefore end up helping protect the kingdoms. There is a vengeful god out to get revenge and a murdered sun god has made the mortal realm be in darkness. Here is more information on breakdown using the ESCAPE method for book ratings.
Total points: 47 so a 4.5 rating but rating up to 5 star
Ending- it was really good and sets up for the next book in the series. I am very hooked and invested in the characters.
Style/Pacing- I felt that it flowed good, the pacing was spot on and it just overall kept me hooked all the way through.
Characters- I loved Neva and her struggle, she deals with racism due to being bi-racial and I really liked her strength and coming into her own. The love interest for Neva is just gahhh! I loved him and I think you will too. I want to see what happens next for them. Ryn- he turned out to be one of my favorite characters, he is sarcastic and battling with his sexuality and having to produce an heir.
Atmosphere/ World building- The setting makes me want to be there and not all at the same time given the circumstances. I liked the concept of the gods and alters, it was creative and really cool to see.
Plot- The premise of the book is unique, creative and addictive. The author intertwined the use of serious subjects in a way that does not dismiss them and we see the characters supporting one another through them, racism, homophobia, substance abuse and infertility are present but they are not so heavy that it become too hard to read.
Enjoyment- I really enjoyed the book, the spice was nice, there is a F/M and M/M spice scenes. I would recommend the book and cannot wait for the series.
CW: racism, homophobia, substance abuse and infertility/ miscarriage
March 19, 2022
I've got an arc from Ellinor and promptly bought the physical copy after finishing. If that doesn't tell you enough:
This book was amazing. It has different character POVs and while I am normally not a big fan of them, they were exactly what this book needed. There was so much going on all the time, so it's not for those who enjoy slow-paced books. The slow burn between two of the characters was just so good, I rooted for the couple from the beginning.
As you get to know the characters you begin to love or hate them really fast (that was at least the case for me).
The world Ellinor created is very well done. You get to know about the gods, about important parts of the history and more. You get a view of how different countries work and how their livestyle differs from each other. The gods of the world are so interesting and Ellinor did great in giving all characters, normal people and gods alike, so much life.
There are also a few of our favorite tropes (one bed, y'all!), so another reason to read this.
The writing style is easy to read so the pages flew by. As mentioned above, the pace is pretty fast and there is very much happening but it doesn't feel fake or forced, all these events fit seamlessly together.
Also, there is smut. Good smut. Do I need to say more?
I'm looking forward for the second book of the soulbinder series and can't wait to have it on my shelf next to this beauty.
This book was amazing. It has different character POVs and while I am normally not a big fan of them, they were exactly what this book needed. There was so much going on all the time, so it's not for those who enjoy slow-paced books. The slow burn between two of the characters was just so good, I rooted for the couple from the beginning.
As you get to know the characters you begin to love or hate them really fast (that was at least the case for me).
The world Ellinor created is very well done. You get to know about the gods, about important parts of the history and more. You get a view of how different countries work and how their livestyle differs from each other. The gods of the world are so interesting and Ellinor did great in giving all characters, normal people and gods alike, so much life.
There are also a few of our favorite tropes (one bed, y'all!), so another reason to read this.
The writing style is easy to read so the pages flew by. As mentioned above, the pace is pretty fast and there is very much happening but it doesn't feel fake or forced, all these events fit seamlessly together.
Also, there is smut. Good smut. Do I need to say more?
I'm looking forward for the second book of the soulbinder series and can't wait to have it on my shelf next to this beauty.
April 7, 2022
This book... I ARC read this book and let me tell you it is one amazing story! I knew 30 pages in this was going to be the next big, number one selling book on the market!
If you love fantasy/world-building books and prefer your books without all that extra fluff and filler paragraphs this is the book for you! There is no skim reading with this book! This story had everything I wanted in it. Following the primary FMC, Neva (this book is in multiple POVs, which the author organized easily as it switched characters) starts off as a regular civilian with her father being a shipping/fisher man with a long distance relation to the king. Due to several deaths and tragedy, Neva's father becomes the new king with Neva changing from lower class to Princess overnight.
To not give away the entire the story, the spark note version is, there is MM instantly with romance, and for Neva it is slow-burn romance that becomes spicy when it happens. There is mention of Wyverns in place, along with Gods/Goddesses that haven't made an appearance in years due to one being murdered off.
If you haven't considered reading this, I 100% believe if you're on the fence of reading this book and enjoy fantasy world/building, this is the book for you!
If you love fantasy/world-building books and prefer your books without all that extra fluff and filler paragraphs this is the book for you! There is no skim reading with this book! This story had everything I wanted in it. Following the primary FMC, Neva (this book is in multiple POVs, which the author organized easily as it switched characters) starts off as a regular civilian with her father being a shipping/fisher man with a long distance relation to the king. Due to several deaths and tragedy, Neva's father becomes the new king with Neva changing from lower class to Princess overnight.
To not give away the entire the story, the spark note version is, there is MM instantly with romance, and for Neva it is slow-burn romance that becomes spicy when it happens. There is mention of Wyverns in place, along with Gods/Goddesses that haven't made an appearance in years due to one being murdered off.
If you haven't considered reading this, I 100% believe if you're on the fence of reading this book and enjoy fantasy world/building, this is the book for you!
February 13, 2023
4.5 ⭐
This book went from "I might DNF it" to a 5-star read!
Since last year, when I made my best decision and dove into the world of books by indie authors, I made a quest for myself to read as many and promote as many.
And this book! Why is it not talked about more? It has such an elaborate world-building, diverse characters, and wonderful relationships and is an absolute enjoyment to read.
What a journey was reading it.
I was certain that I would DNF it for the first few chapters.
Why? It started with three characters that had short names, starting with an E, and it was hard to follow for a few chapters.
But... Slowly it pulled me in and the grasp it had on my attention was unexplainable.
The writing is so well done and so mesmerizing. The characters were so well written that soon enough I didn't have a problem realizing who is who and the story picked up. Their magic powers are interesting and so well described that you can clearly picture the scene. The story gets really captivating and complex and it was so rich with world-building that I could not stop reading. The intricate world of the Gods and their avatars, the ideology of acceptance (or lack of it) based on the rase and birth line... The world-building is so wide, and rich, but in the end, it still feels as if we only scratched the surface of it and there is so much more to find out.
In the end, this is one of the most well-written books that I have read.
What was most appealing to me was the writing and how the characters were presented, how deep their story was built, and how raw their flaws are included in the story. By the end of the book, you care for each of them and it hurts that the book has ended but you need to know more. I can't say it is a big cliffhanger, it is a preparation for the next book but just how some things ended...that has to be changed!
Honestly, I don't know how I came across this book but it deserves a lot more recs and reviews.
I noticed that the marketing of the book and the author's activities had stopped at some point, what was the reason behind this is unfamiliar to me, but I do hope that we will see the next book in this series.
This book went from "I might DNF it" to a 5-star read!
Since last year, when I made my best decision and dove into the world of books by indie authors, I made a quest for myself to read as many and promote as many.
And this book! Why is it not talked about more? It has such an elaborate world-building, diverse characters, and wonderful relationships and is an absolute enjoyment to read.
What a journey was reading it.
I was certain that I would DNF it for the first few chapters.
Why? It started with three characters that had short names, starting with an E, and it was hard to follow for a few chapters.
But... Slowly it pulled me in and the grasp it had on my attention was unexplainable.
The writing is so well done and so mesmerizing. The characters were so well written that soon enough I didn't have a problem realizing who is who and the story picked up. Their magic powers are interesting and so well described that you can clearly picture the scene. The story gets really captivating and complex and it was so rich with world-building that I could not stop reading. The intricate world of the Gods and their avatars, the ideology of acceptance (or lack of it) based on the rase and birth line... The world-building is so wide, and rich, but in the end, it still feels as if we only scratched the surface of it and there is so much more to find out.
In the end, this is one of the most well-written books that I have read.
What was most appealing to me was the writing and how the characters were presented, how deep their story was built, and how raw their flaws are included in the story. By the end of the book, you care for each of them and it hurts that the book has ended but you need to know more. I can't say it is a big cliffhanger, it is a preparation for the next book but just how some things ended...that has to be changed!
Honestly, I don't know how I came across this book but it deserves a lot more recs and reviews.
I noticed that the marketing of the book and the author's activities had stopped at some point, what was the reason behind this is unfamiliar to me, but I do hope that we will see the next book in this series.
March 11, 2022
I beta read this book and absolutely loved it. Ellinor Pailing has done a beautiful job of creating a fantasy world with an intricate pantheon of deities with human-like personalities that you either love, love to hate, or in the case of one god in particular, hate to love. The storyline weaves among multiple primary and supporting characters who each have great development throughout the book, and by the end, I had fallen in love with quite a few of them. While the plot is predominantly a hero trying to save not only her homeland but also the rest of the world, interwoven are a few different romantic and platonic relationships that kept me wanting more. Some authors can go overboard on graphic details of romantic encounters, but I felt that the descriptions in this book were at that perfect line of enough to spark an intense interest (and emotions) while not being gratuitous and overwhelming. This book is wonderful for those who love both straight and LGBT+ relationships while also needing a strong plot. Having read a ridiculous number of fantasy/scifi/etc books, I saw a few of the plot twists coming, but I was also pleasantly surprised by plenty of twists and turns. I am so excited this book went to print, and I cannot wait for the sequel!
April 25, 2022
Like most good fantasy books this one starts out slower paced as we are introduced to the world and its inhabitants living without a sun after their sun god was killed.
The pace picks up once we have met all of the POVs and ramps up at the end for a nail biting finish that may leave you cursing the author.
I absolutely loved the tie in from the prologue and the foreshadowing sprinkled throughout.
I struggled to see some depth in a couple of the characters but others were fleshed out really well. The multitude of gods had me confused at times but I could refer to the glossary.
The romantic interest is slow to start but once ignited, it burns. Plenty of spice with MM and FM scenes.
I'm interested to see where this series goes.
TW:
Death/grief, death of a parent, corpse desecration, mental health, violence, swearing
Infertility/miscarriage/pregnancy, racism, homophobia, drug use, SA
The pace picks up once we have met all of the POVs and ramps up at the end for a nail biting finish that may leave you cursing the author.
I absolutely loved the tie in from the prologue and the foreshadowing sprinkled throughout.
I struggled to see some depth in a couple of the characters but others were fleshed out really well. The multitude of gods had me confused at times but I could refer to the glossary.
The romantic interest is slow to start but once ignited, it burns. Plenty of spice with MM and FM scenes.
I'm interested to see where this series goes.
TW:
Death/grief, death of a parent, corpse desecration, mental health, violence, swearing
Infertility/miscarriage/pregnancy, racism, homophobia, drug use, SA
March 30, 2022
SPOILER FREE REVIEW:
Okay, where to start..This book is amazingly well written and you are in for one hell of ride. You WILL feel almost every emotion when going through this. It leaves you wanting so much more. The character developments and plot lines are detailed, but there's not so much detail you get confused. Perfect balance of POVs, works entirely well as you get the story from multiple angles.
I can honestly say this was a real page turner. I couldn't put it down, much to my husband's dismay. I cannot wait for the next one to come out, and cannot reccomend this book enough.
You need to read this. And yes, there is spice in this. ALOT.
Okay, where to start..This book is amazingly well written and you are in for one hell of ride. You WILL feel almost every emotion when going through this. It leaves you wanting so much more. The character developments and plot lines are detailed, but there's not so much detail you get confused. Perfect balance of POVs, works entirely well as you get the story from multiple angles.
I can honestly say this was a real page turner. I couldn't put it down, much to my husband's dismay. I cannot wait for the next one to come out, and cannot reccomend this book enough.
You need to read this. And yes, there is spice in this. ALOT.
May 22, 2022
I absolutely ate this book up. After page 50 I was absolutely flying through the book. The cast were all very fun. I loved being introduced to this world, it felt very D&D-esque (in a good way!) so it felt familiar despite being entirely new. Some of the plot beats were pretty predictable and sometimes the pacing wasn't perfect, but I still had a great time reading this. I'm going to need the sequel ASAP to know what happens next.
March 12, 2022
This book was an absolutely amazing read from beginning to end. The world is rich and interesting; the characters are nuanced; the action scenes had me on the edge of my seat; and the spice is *chef's kiss*.
If you like any of these things, I highly, highly recommend this book!
If you like any of these things, I highly, highly recommend this book!
March 31, 2022
Book was really engrossing, the characters were great and the slow burn was worth it. Lots of twists I was not expecting that never felt contrived. The world is really interesting and I am excited for the rest of the series because the ending left me wanting to know what is happening next.
April 8, 2022
A princess and her guard. Questionable theological history. International drama. Family drama. A sassy death god. A strong urge to yell HOW DARE at the author when you finish the book but in the very best way.
Anyway I'm anxiously awaiting book 2.
Anyway I'm anxiously awaiting book 2.
April 12, 2022
Ellinor did a spectacular job of keeping my interest at every point throughout this novel. The world building is intricate while also being easy to follow and keep track of, which is quite a feat for the fantasy genre! At the Break of Dawn has some of my favorite tropes (namely one bed and found family) that are used in fresh ways that captivated me. I also LOVE multiple POVS, which this book does to perfection!
This book is incredibly well-written from syntax to pacing, and it has diverse characters that I wish to highlight. There's romance and fun banter between the characters that make them feel believable and relatable, and keep you having to read *just one* more chapter before bed. The spicy scenes were sheer perfection!! You can't help but fall in love and root for certain characters. Even the "bad guys" are complex and interesting with believable motives!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next one!
This book is incredibly well-written from syntax to pacing, and it has diverse characters that I wish to highlight. There's romance and fun banter between the characters that make them feel believable and relatable, and keep you having to read *just one* more chapter before bed. The spicy scenes were sheer perfection!! You can't help but fall in love and root for certain characters. Even the "bad guys" are complex and interesting with believable motives!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next one!
June 2, 2022
The ending hurt me
4.25 ⭐️
4.25 ⭐️
August 1, 2022
I need the next book asap. The plot twist at the end had me reeling.
Also! I hate sera’s actions in the last few pages but I think I know what’s coming and why he did it???? Ugh. I need more
Also! I hate sera’s actions in the last few pages but I think I know what’s coming and why he did it???? Ugh. I need more
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