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Day of No Shadows
A man ready to meet his destiny, and a woman running away from hers. Fulfilling her father’s last request, Ines sets off to tour Mayan ruins. Her guide, Nash, instantly notices she bears a striking resemblance to the Mayan moon goddess, which stirs up secrets long kept hidden. A passionate kiss turns into a fall through time, where the heavens dictate the future, and the gods demand the impossible. When their attempt to change history turns into a fight for survival, will Ines find the courage to make her own sacrifice? REVIEWS ...the characters were well developed and the relationship between them while starting out full of tension, developed into something beautiful and written in the stars. - Didi The author doesn’t pull her punches when she takes this couple back to the height of the Mayans power. - Claire ... an unforgettable adventure. - Joy ... the writing was incredible, the story was engaging, the history aspects were super interesting, and the slow burn was torturous. - Brittany ... you will be gripped from the beginning and enjoy this magical ride. - Joannah De Leon is bold and daring in her writing. - Melissa History, romance, suspense, and characters who grow - Day of No Shadows contains many elements I enjoy in a book. - Emily
387 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2019
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August 20, 2019
It's LIVE! https://amzn.to/31OZY2i
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Ines knows what it is to depend only on herself. After losing her father's mind to dementia during her teens, she's had to learn all about independence. Now a new adult, she's recently suffering from her father's death and is out to fulfill his last request - one final adventure for his sake. She returns to the land of the Mayans, to get in touch with her history, and maybe find herself in the process. When destiny and history meet, will it be love that sees her through?
Day of No Shadows was a time travel romance set in the beautiful Mayan culture. From pyramids to ruins to hidden cenotes, Ines and Nash grew closer - to each other and to the fate that awaited them. Although young, Ines was no stranger to domineering men which prepared her for Nash's commanding ways and for the misogyny of the past she found herself a part of. Despite developing feelings for Nash before the time jump, she played immature games and pushed buttons and was always surprised by the outcome. I got that she was hurt before, but even Nash pointed out that she colored him with the same brush as the men before him, without giving him a chance. She was a hard heroine to support and while I was empathetic, I didn't like her. I think I wouldn't have minded her childish behavior if her narrative was broken up with someone else's (Nash's) perspective.
I found this story to be dry and wordy, especially with respect to the culture and surroundings. It was very heavy with cultural history and mythology and while I found it interesting, the romance of this story took a back seat to my interest in everything else. I skimmed and skipped along in order to find something to really grab my attention. I think my lack of enthusiasm for this story had more to do with me and less to do with the story itself. Lovers of history and cultural anthropology would probably appreciate this story more.
FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Ines knows what it is to depend only on herself. After losing her father's mind to dementia during her teens, she's had to learn all about independence. Now a new adult, she's recently suffering from her father's death and is out to fulfill his last request - one final adventure for his sake. She returns to the land of the Mayans, to get in touch with her history, and maybe find herself in the process. When destiny and history meet, will it be love that sees her through?
Day of No Shadows was a time travel romance set in the beautiful Mayan culture. From pyramids to ruins to hidden cenotes, Ines and Nash grew closer - to each other and to the fate that awaited them. Although young, Ines was no stranger to domineering men which prepared her for Nash's commanding ways and for the misogyny of the past she found herself a part of. Despite developing feelings for Nash before the time jump, she played immature games and pushed buttons and was always surprised by the outcome. I got that she was hurt before, but even Nash pointed out that she colored him with the same brush as the men before him, without giving him a chance. She was a hard heroine to support and while I was empathetic, I didn't like her. I think I wouldn't have minded her childish behavior if her narrative was broken up with someone else's (Nash's) perspective.
I found this story to be dry and wordy, especially with respect to the culture and surroundings. It was very heavy with cultural history and mythology and while I found it interesting, the romance of this story took a back seat to my interest in everything else. I skimmed and skipped along in order to find something to really grab my attention. I think my lack of enthusiasm for this story had more to do with me and less to do with the story itself. Lovers of history and cultural anthropology would probably appreciate this story more.
July 31, 2019
5 - "It’s time to live our destiny…" Stars!
I always know to expect the unexpected with this authors work, and once again with Day of No Shadows she took me on another memorable and unforgettable journey. One I’d never have taken without her rich and vivid descriptions, deep and meaningful character development, and new and unusual story telling.
This is my history and my culture. I feel the familiarity in my bones, and my heart is slowly catching up…
You’ll not read another story quite like Inez and Nash’s, and it takes you through the emotional spectrum. The author doesn’t pull her punches when she takes this couple back to the height of the Mayans power, and although time-travel isn’t generally something I would turn too, I think because it is very definitely broken up so you get to know where you are and what is going on, rather than jumping back and forth, it was a story I quickly got lost in.
"When our lips touch, that’s it. You’re mine…"
There are a couple of aspects of the story that were a little on the unpalatable side for this reader, but it was part of the time and the culture so I put on my big girls pants and sucked it up. It was worth it in the end because they were part of what had an impact on Inez and Nash’s story in general. Sonia always manages to wring a few tears (or floods on occasion) out of me, and this one didn’t disappoint in that area either.
He’s become part of my life that I never wanted, not could I ever be without…
If you are looking for something a little different, set in an unusual location, with a unique story-line Day of No Shadows is for you, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. I just hope it I don’t have to wait as long for her next offering as I have for this one!
ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
I always know to expect the unexpected with this authors work, and once again with Day of No Shadows she took me on another memorable and unforgettable journey. One I’d never have taken without her rich and vivid descriptions, deep and meaningful character development, and new and unusual story telling.
This is my history and my culture. I feel the familiarity in my bones, and my heart is slowly catching up…
You’ll not read another story quite like Inez and Nash’s, and it takes you through the emotional spectrum. The author doesn’t pull her punches when she takes this couple back to the height of the Mayans power, and although time-travel isn’t generally something I would turn too, I think because it is very definitely broken up so you get to know where you are and what is going on, rather than jumping back and forth, it was a story I quickly got lost in.
"When our lips touch, that’s it. You’re mine…"
There are a couple of aspects of the story that were a little on the unpalatable side for this reader, but it was part of the time and the culture so I put on my big girls pants and sucked it up. It was worth it in the end because they were part of what had an impact on Inez and Nash’s story in general. Sonia always manages to wring a few tears (or floods on occasion) out of me, and this one didn’t disappoint in that area either.
He’s become part of my life that I never wanted, not could I ever be without…
If you are looking for something a little different, set in an unusual location, with a unique story-line Day of No Shadows is for you, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. I just hope it I don’t have to wait as long for her next offering as I have for this one!
ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 25, 2019
Even years after reading The Blue Amaryllis, I still think highly of Sonia De Leon's debut novel. So when I found out that she had written another not so ordinary romance story, I had to find the time to read it. Mrs. De leon doesn't disappoint and here are some reasons why this novel stands out among other romance novels to me:
SETTING
Thanks to this book, if I ever leave Europe and fly across the ocean, I definitely want to visit Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. Beautiful descriptions of places made me google them to see the real stuff while reading this book (see updates for visuals). I wished I could have been there and tag along the adventure with main characters, run up the pyramids with Ines and dance bachata with Nash till morning. The atmosphere author created was catchy and very potent. Descriptions were never boring, just the right lenght to capture the essence of Yucatan, Mayan architecture, culture and history. It was a fascinating read.
PLOT
Day of No Shadows is not your everyday ordinary romance novel with overused thropes. This story, beside romance, has its own captivating storyline and twists that made it into exciting read for me. I would welcome more detailed world-building, but considering this falls into romance not fantasy category, I was content with what I got.
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is real thing in this book. Let me tell you, it was sizzling between Nash and Ines during their bickering and conversations. There were moments when I didn't think that Nash and Ines were right for each other but trusting Mrs. De Leon's storytelling skills paid off and I was rewarded with believable romance and duo that grew on me so much that now I am going to miss them. To be honest, it was refreshing to read about not so ideal couple, it made their romance much more realistic (even though they did travel in time ;) ).
SETTING
Thanks to this book, if I ever leave Europe and fly across the ocean, I definitely want to visit Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. Beautiful descriptions of places made me google them to see the real stuff while reading this book (see updates for visuals). I wished I could have been there and tag along the adventure with main characters, run up the pyramids with Ines and dance bachata with Nash till morning. The atmosphere author created was catchy and very potent. Descriptions were never boring, just the right lenght to capture the essence of Yucatan, Mayan architecture, culture and history. It was a fascinating read.
PLOT
Day of No Shadows is not your everyday ordinary romance novel with overused thropes. This story, beside romance, has its own captivating storyline and twists that made it into exciting read for me. I would welcome more detailed world-building, but considering this falls into romance not fantasy category, I was content with what I got.
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is real thing in this book. Let me tell you, it was sizzling between Nash and Ines during their bickering and conversations. There were moments when I didn't think that Nash and Ines were right for each other but trusting Mrs. De Leon's storytelling skills paid off and I was rewarded with believable romance and duo that grew on me so much that now I am going to miss them. To be honest, it was refreshing to read about not so ideal couple, it made their romance much more realistic (even though they did travel in time ;) ).
October 19, 2019
This book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I loved the reasearch that the author did on Mayan culture, gods and architecture! I enjoyed those parts here very, very much! I had the feeling I was there and looking at all the wonderful things being them buildings, food, or dresses! Also the wonderful cenotes and thier use!
What I found lacking is the MCs. Yes, I know since the author says it in the afterword that the characters are imperfect and I see that the author wanted to show us their growth, but I found them too self-centered to be likable.
Both Ines and Nash act like spoilt teenagers and I don't like that kind of MCs. Since this is a time-travel romance I want to sigh because the MCs show each other their love. I want to see the romance. Instead I saw only selfishness. "I'm afraid to love because love hurts" is a trope I don't like. Yes, it's personal, so probably other people will like it.
The push-and-pull in their relationship is tiring and skipped many parts where they wanted/don't wanted to be together. Many things could have happened differently, in a better way for all, if only they made a decision one way!! But no, they just went on and on with their indecision and I just got more and more annoyed!
So, while the time-travel is done well and the Mayan culture is wonderful, I cannot give it 5 or 4 stars... Sorry...
I loved the reasearch that the author did on Mayan culture, gods and architecture! I enjoyed those parts here very, very much! I had the feeling I was there and looking at all the wonderful things being them buildings, food, or dresses! Also the wonderful cenotes and thier use!
What I found lacking is the MCs. Yes, I know since the author says it in the afterword that the characters are imperfect and I see that the author wanted to show us their growth, but I found them too self-centered to be likable.
Both Ines and Nash act like spoilt teenagers and I don't like that kind of MCs. Since this is a time-travel romance I want to sigh because the MCs show each other their love. I want to see the romance. Instead I saw only selfishness. "I'm afraid to love because love hurts" is a trope I don't like. Yes, it's personal, so probably other people will like it.
The push-and-pull in their relationship is tiring and skipped many parts where they wanted/don't wanted to be together. Many things could have happened differently, in a better way for all, if only they made a decision one way!! But no, they just went on and on with their indecision and I just got more and more annoyed!
So, while the time-travel is done well and the Mayan culture is wonderful, I cannot give it 5 or 4 stars... Sorry...
August 6, 2019
Day of No Shadows is a time travel romance centered around the Mayan culture. Ines's father paid for a tour for her through the Mayan ruins before he passed away. She and her tour guide, Nash spend some time visiting all the local Mayan sites like her father wished her too.
During Ines and Nash's travels, they end up back in time when they jumped into a cenote. Nash believes they have been sent back for a reason and that reason may be to find out how to prevent the ruins.
I do not know much about the Mayan ruins or their culture. I did find it pretty fascinating how much detail the author put into this story. I do enjoy a book that can take me traveling with the characters and I think the author really succeeded in this.
The romance in the book was a bit harder for me and ultimately took some of my enjoyment out of the story. Nash and Ines's interactions was a bit immature for my tastes. They were both too prideful, and I really don't like when the hero is with other women when they are chasing the heroine. This is a personal preference of mine and I know readers who really like that push and pull relationship will enjoy the romance more.
During Ines and Nash's travels, they end up back in time when they jumped into a cenote. Nash believes they have been sent back for a reason and that reason may be to find out how to prevent the ruins.
I do not know much about the Mayan ruins or their culture. I did find it pretty fascinating how much detail the author put into this story. I do enjoy a book that can take me traveling with the characters and I think the author really succeeded in this.
The romance in the book was a bit harder for me and ultimately took some of my enjoyment out of the story. Nash and Ines's interactions was a bit immature for my tastes. They were both too prideful, and I really don't like when the hero is with other women when they are chasing the heroine. This is a personal preference of mine and I know readers who really like that push and pull relationship will enjoy the romance more.
August 14, 2019
"If you could go back in time and change their fate, would you?"
Wow. This book was not what I was expecting at all, but I still found myself completely enraptured by it as one can't help but look at an impending crash. In some ways, this book was hard for me to connect with as much of the Mayan stories and lore are unfamiliar to me (as are the various tongue-twisting names). On the other hand, this story felt like coming home to my grandmother's cooking as I was able to recognize and relate to many of the Hispanic customs and language--something that I haven't really come across in any novels I've read so far.
For me, the two main characters were difficult to like sometimes as they were just so self-destructive and honestly a little masochistic. They would continually make bad choices and behave in a way that even THEY knew was not in their best interests despite knowing the consequences would not be good. However even though they were not perfect by any means, I still found myself rooting for them both and desperately hoping for their HEA. The story itself was hard to keep up with in the beginning because it depends so heavily on Mayan lore, but things become clearer the more you read on, allowing readers to discover how intricate and beautiful a story Sonia has woven. Overall, I am happy I picked up this novel and found myself unable to read fast enough towards the end. I'd recommend this to readers who have an interest in the Mayan culture or are simply looking for a time-travel romance unlike any they have read before (no Scottish brogues here!).
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 14, 2019
What an interesting and engrossing story. I enjoyed reading this time travel/historical romantic adventure. I thought the characters were well developed and the relationship between them while starting out full of tension, developed into something beautiful and written in the stars.
Going back in time and reading about Mayan culture was really cool, albeit sometimes hard to read about, but this was a different time and place. I really enjoyed the ending and how things really came full circle. I’m not going to say much more since I don’t want to spoil the book, but it was an enjoyable ride.
Arc provided by the author for an honest review.
Going back in time and reading about Mayan culture was really cool, albeit sometimes hard to read about, but this was a different time and place. I really enjoyed the ending and how things really came full circle. I’m not going to say much more since I don’t want to spoil the book, but it was an enjoyable ride.
Arc provided by the author for an honest review.
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August 20, 2019It’s LIVE!!!
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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VBHNRN8
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August 7, 2019
Sonia De Leon's writing is beautifully detailed, descriptive and her passion for the story and the characters shines through out. Her characters are real, strong, and likable. Not perfect but perfectly flawed. Both were strong, stubborn, and passionate but not always about the same things, but despite their differences or because of them, I couldn't help but cheer them on.
This is a slow burn, suspenseful romance that immerses the reader in an ancient Mayan culture that was enlightening and interesting. The colorful history, and the even more colorful characters, were brought to life with Sonia's writing. However, there were places when I felt that the plot was overshadowed by the historical details. I'd have preferred a better balance.
I very much enjoyed getting lost in this world and will be eagerly waiting Sonia's next release.
This is a slow burn, suspenseful romance that immerses the reader in an ancient Mayan culture that was enlightening and interesting. The colorful history, and the even more colorful characters, were brought to life with Sonia's writing. However, there were places when I felt that the plot was overshadowed by the historical details. I'd have preferred a better balance.
I very much enjoyed getting lost in this world and will be eagerly waiting Sonia's next release.
July 5, 2019
De Leon is at it again and delivers an unforgettable adventure!
I was fortunate enough to be selected to read the pre-release and I am in love - thank you!
De Leon's development of her characters is so thoughtfully done that it made me feel like I knew these people. Then she takes you on an adventure, so well laid out, that you can see it unfold in front of you and you experience it clearly. This story awakened all my senses and transported me to a different time and place. You will taste, smell, hear, see and touch this work of art and then you too will be thanking De Leon.
I truly appreciate a story teller that can communicate so effectively through written word that I can walk with the characters through their journey. I connected. Job well done!
I was fortunate enough to be selected to read the pre-release and I am in love - thank you!
De Leon's development of her characters is so thoughtfully done that it made me feel like I knew these people. Then she takes you on an adventure, so well laid out, that you can see it unfold in front of you and you experience it clearly. This story awakened all my senses and transported me to a different time and place. You will taste, smell, hear, see and touch this work of art and then you too will be thanking De Leon.
I truly appreciate a story teller that can communicate so effectively through written word that I can walk with the characters through their journey. I connected. Job well done!
July 4, 2019
I was honored to read this story in advance, and IT WAS UNLIKE ANYTHING I'VE READ BEFORE!
First of all, the writing and details implemented in this story are to die for. You will honestly feel like you are walking with Ines and Nash through their journey. And speaking of Ines and Nash, talk about two well-developed characters. Usually, a female character seems to always fall into a cliche, but not Ines. Ines and Nash are both strong apart, and even stronger together. This is a slow-burning love that lasts over lifetimes. <3 Loved every chapter!!!!
First of all, the writing and details implemented in this story are to die for. You will honestly feel like you are walking with Ines and Nash through their journey. And speaking of Ines and Nash, talk about two well-developed characters. Usually, a female character seems to always fall into a cliche, but not Ines. Ines and Nash are both strong apart, and even stronger together. This is a slow-burning love that lasts over lifetimes. <3 Loved every chapter!!!!
July 27, 2019
I had a love/hate relationship with this novel, much like the two leads had with each other.
While it may have started a bit slow, I was able to get completely hooked a few chapters in, and there was no turning back from there.
There were several times I had to put this book down in frustration, which was good and bad. The writing was great, so great that it made me invested enough to be pissed at the characters and their stupid decision-making. However, some of the stuff that characters did just felt unforgivable. For example, OH, and it was kinda odd to me how we got a very descriptive description of but there were no detailed romantic sex scenes throughout the book.
These were my few frustrations, and some of them made it difficult for me to root for the main characters. I found myself rooting against them, hoping each found someone else so they didn't fall into a cycle of toxicity together. While they may find happiness in the end, I'm not quite sure how they got there. I couldn't see the moment where it changed, but magically it did.
Either way, the writing was incredible, the story was engaging, the history aspects were super interesting, and the slow burn was torturous. This was a very good book, I just know that for me personally, some of those "never cross" lines were crossed, which made it a little difficult for me to love the characters like I want to when reading a romance.
Additionally, I do wonder about the message it sends to those experiencing abuse, and would urge those who've suffered not to read the story, because in real life, it wouldn't turn out the way it did... though, I guess there's no time traveling in real life, so I shouldn't worry too much there.
While it may have started a bit slow, I was able to get completely hooked a few chapters in, and there was no turning back from there.
There were several times I had to put this book down in frustration, which was good and bad. The writing was great, so great that it made me invested enough to be pissed at the characters and their stupid decision-making. However, some of the stuff that characters did just felt unforgivable. For example, OH, and it was kinda odd to me how we got a very descriptive description of but there were no detailed romantic sex scenes throughout the book.
These were my few frustrations, and some of them made it difficult for me to root for the main characters. I found myself rooting against them, hoping each found someone else so they didn't fall into a cycle of toxicity together. While they may find happiness in the end, I'm not quite sure how they got there. I couldn't see the moment where it changed, but magically it did.
Either way, the writing was incredible, the story was engaging, the history aspects were super interesting, and the slow burn was torturous. This was a very good book, I just know that for me personally, some of those "never cross" lines were crossed, which made it a little difficult for me to love the characters like I want to when reading a romance.
Additionally, I do wonder about the message it sends to those experiencing abuse, and would urge those who've suffered not to read the story, because in real life, it wouldn't turn out the way it did... though, I guess there's no time traveling in real life, so I shouldn't worry too much there.
August 18, 2019
3.5 Stars
“Could the lives, emotions, and experiences of those who lived before etch into our DNA?.”
-
Ines is taking a trip to Yucatán, México to fulfill her father’s last wishes, an adventure in the land of the Mayans.
This book is a time-traveling story, filled with so much history and beautiful places, from cenotes to pyramids, pink flamingos and the beautiful Mayan culture.
It was a very different love story, set in a very unique and magical setting, with so much history and detail that I was simply mesmerized by it.
I didn’t connect that much with the characters personalities at first, they were too stubborn and immature, but at the end they both found their way and I couldn’t help but cheer them on.
If you like history, rich culture and anthropology you’ll find this book very interesting.
-
Thank you @sonia_de_leon_writes for giving me the opportunity to read and review your book.
-
“Pretty much everything I’ve claimed is impossible has happened, starting with time travel. I wonder what more surprises await.”
-
“That is love. At its ultimate it is a wondrous thing. But in order to create something beautiful, sometimes it has to destroy.”
-
“If he is the sun, then I am his moon...”
-
http://www.instagram.com/booksandcoff...
“Could the lives, emotions, and experiences of those who lived before etch into our DNA?.”
-
Ines is taking a trip to Yucatán, México to fulfill her father’s last wishes, an adventure in the land of the Mayans.
This book is a time-traveling story, filled with so much history and beautiful places, from cenotes to pyramids, pink flamingos and the beautiful Mayan culture.
It was a very different love story, set in a very unique and magical setting, with so much history and detail that I was simply mesmerized by it.
I didn’t connect that much with the characters personalities at first, they were too stubborn and immature, but at the end they both found their way and I couldn’t help but cheer them on.
If you like history, rich culture and anthropology you’ll find this book very interesting.
-
Thank you @sonia_de_leon_writes for giving me the opportunity to read and review your book.
-
“Pretty much everything I’ve claimed is impossible has happened, starting with time travel. I wonder what more surprises await.”
-
“That is love. At its ultimate it is a wondrous thing. But in order to create something beautiful, sometimes it has to destroy.”
-
“If he is the sun, then I am his moon...”
-
http://www.instagram.com/booksandcoff...
August 5, 2019
3.5 Stars. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. If you are tired of reading books where the only conflict that exists throughout the entire book is the hero not wanting to commit to marriage than READ THIS BOOK. There is so much adventure and uniqueness to this book it's crazy. I loved so many things about this book and I hated some things about this book. De Leon is an amazing conductor of words. She writes exactly what you need to read to understand the passion and the feelings the characters are going through. These characters are so flawed. So unforgivably flawed. Which I guess makes them more real. But I wanted to love them like I loved Leia and Tanun in the Blue Amaryllis and I just couldn't. Also I couldn't love the plot. I kept waiting for a big reveal or a big ta-da moment and it never came. Overall I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to read this book. De Leon is bold and daring in her writing. She definitely stands out among other authors in her genre and should be extremely proud of her work. I pray she doesn't wait another two years to write another book. I get tired of typing her name in my kindle every few months looking for her new work!
July 5, 2019
It's been a while since I read a book with two characters who consistently deliver such snappy/hilarious dialogue. I was laughing out loud frequently throughout this story. I also did a lot of head shaking since the author does a fantastic job diving down into the psychology of toxic relationships.
At one point I was sure the hero and heroine were all wrong for each other and that their relationship was doomed to failure. Imagine my surprise when their character arcs convincingly came full circle and they ended up stronger together than they ever were apart. I left the story feeling like Nash and Ines will be "okay". Better than okay, they will thrive together. That's so uplifting because this could have very easily ended up as a tragic story of two people with amazing sexual chemistry without any chance of a deep emotional commitment.
Stunning imagery and evocative storytelling. Thumbs up.
At one point I was sure the hero and heroine were all wrong for each other and that their relationship was doomed to failure. Imagine my surprise when their character arcs convincingly came full circle and they ended up stronger together than they ever were apart. I left the story feeling like Nash and Ines will be "okay". Better than okay, they will thrive together. That's so uplifting because this could have very easily ended up as a tragic story of two people with amazing sexual chemistry without any chance of a deep emotional commitment.
Stunning imagery and evocative storytelling. Thumbs up.
July 15, 2019
This is an incredible book! De Leon is definitely an up and coming author and she proves it yet again in Day of No Shadows. From the hilarious banter between Ines and Nash, to the historical truths of the Mayan culture that get weaved into the tapestry of this story, you will be gripped from the beginning and enjoy this magical ride.
Sonia De Leon is a master at showing us the true emotions of the characters, they become part of the life of the reader, as well as conjuring strong images of where the story takes place. From the start, we are immersed into the beautiful, albeit sometimes terrifying world of Ines and Nash. Through their trials and tribulations, both individually and together, we are taken on a wonderful journey where we hear the sounds, smell the scents in the air and fall in love with this world they fall into.
I highly recommend Day of No Shadows. You will not be disappointed.
Sonia De Leon is a master at showing us the true emotions of the characters, they become part of the life of the reader, as well as conjuring strong images of where the story takes place. From the start, we are immersed into the beautiful, albeit sometimes terrifying world of Ines and Nash. Through their trials and tribulations, both individually and together, we are taken on a wonderful journey where we hear the sounds, smell the scents in the air and fall in love with this world they fall into.
I highly recommend Day of No Shadows. You will not be disappointed.
August 21, 2019
I am not going to lie, this is a fairly long book. It was so worth every hour spent reading it though. I loved all the twists and turns it has to offer. Majority of the time, it took me by complete surprise. I don't know much about the Mayan culture, but this book definitely opened my eyes to what is out there. I loved getting to learn some of it, and it actually be told in an interesting way.
Nash and Ines are a love that cannot be pulled apart. They both have to make hard decisions, and it could break them. Yet, they don't let it. I loved the humor in this book, and how the characters always had something funny or smart to say. Ines lets her past dictate what her heart truly wants. It's understandable, but it can get rather frustrating. Because, as a reader, I just want them to be together and get their HEA.
Nash and Ines are a love that cannot be pulled apart. They both have to make hard decisions, and it could break them. Yet, they don't let it. I loved the humor in this book, and how the characters always had something funny or smart to say. Ines lets her past dictate what her heart truly wants. It's understandable, but it can get rather frustrating. Because, as a reader, I just want them to be together and get their HEA.
July 20, 2019
So this is the first book that i have read by this author, it took me a few chapters to get into the story but once i had i was hooked.
I loved the two main characters - Nash and Ines. They have a past history together when they were younger and it wasn't the best as well as their pasts as they grew. But the relationship develops and their relationship grows. Once they are in the past i felt like the story just came to life and i just couldn't put it down.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style, all the details that she brought to the story. She is able to completely draw you into the story.
I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and I will definitely be reading more from this author and this is a book i would recommend
I loved the two main characters - Nash and Ines. They have a past history together when they were younger and it wasn't the best as well as their pasts as they grew. But the relationship develops and their relationship grows. Once they are in the past i felt like the story just came to life and i just couldn't put it down.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style, all the details that she brought to the story. She is able to completely draw you into the story.
I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and I will definitely be reading more from this author and this is a book i would recommend
August 20, 2019
A unique story centered on the Mayan culture.
Sonia Deleon is a new author for me so did not know what to expect but this will not be the last book I will read of hers. I found it was very easy to fall under her spell. This was an engaging fantasy adventure that was well-written with interesting characters that were well-developed and so realistic too. There were aspects in the piece that was new to me things I have never seen in books before making this piece feel so new to me. The author has written a book that at times you really dislike what is going on and at others, you will love it. Now for me, that is the proof that Ms. Deleon is a talented author. I highly recommend!! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Sonia Deleon is a new author for me so did not know what to expect but this will not be the last book I will read of hers. I found it was very easy to fall under her spell. This was an engaging fantasy adventure that was well-written with interesting characters that were well-developed and so realistic too. There were aspects in the piece that was new to me things I have never seen in books before making this piece feel so new to me. The author has written a book that at times you really dislike what is going on and at others, you will love it. Now for me, that is the proof that Ms. Deleon is a talented author. I highly recommend!! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 20, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It was nothing like anything I've read before and different than what I was expecting. I found myself saying, "I'll just finish this chapter," but still be reading an hour later. I'll definitely be checking out more books by De Leon.
If you have interest in time travel, the Mayan culture, and enjoy romance, this is the book for you. I enjoyed the way the author had a good split between describing the setting and culture and the evolving relationship between Inez and Nash.
The dialogue is snappy and entertaining and keeps you drawn into the interactions among characters, especially Inez and Nash.
If you have interest in time travel, the Mayan culture, and enjoy romance, this is the book for you. I enjoyed the way the author had a good split between describing the setting and culture and the evolving relationship between Inez and Nash.
The dialogue is snappy and entertaining and keeps you drawn into the interactions among characters, especially Inez and Nash.
August 16, 2019
This book is a wonderful diversion from my every day life. The two main characters interact with each other very well. There is lots of detail given in the descriptions of the setting and conversation and events that take place which I really enjoy. There are parts of the relationship that develops between the two main characters that I feel aren’t resolved very well and I would have liked them to have been flushed out with greater detail. That being said I still really enjoyed travelling through the ancient Mayans history with this pair of characters.
August 22, 2019
Absolutely loved this book. The story and characters were so engaging. I don’t know much if anything about Mayan history, but it read like a thoroughly researched book. I particularly appreciated the artful way English translations of Spanish dialogue were woven into the text.
I would absolutely recommend this book, and it hits so many genres; historical fiction, time travel, romance...I really enjoyed it!
I was grateful to receive this book as an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honey review.
I would absolutely recommend this book, and it hits so many genres; historical fiction, time travel, romance...I really enjoyed it!
I was grateful to receive this book as an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honey review.
August 28, 2019
I Loved Blue Amaryllis by this author so I couldn’t wait to get into this one. Right away I loved the setting, but had a hard time with the relationship between Nash and Ines. I was glad I stuck with the story because it really became an adventure once they traveled through time. There were a couple of really great scenes where Sonia de Leon brought legend and history together. Ultimately I cared for both Characters in the end and how their experience changed them both and their relationship to each other.
August 20, 2019
I really enjoyed this book!! History, romance, suspense, and characters who grow - Day of No Shadows contains many elements I enjoy in a book, and bonus! It is unpredictable and kept me on my toes.
Our main character Ines is forced to face her past and her fears, and make a few difficult choices as she journeys with a man whose own past - and future - is more entwined with hers than is first apparent. They both face great danger and heartache as they try to survive the path they have taken.
Our main character Ines is forced to face her past and her fears, and make a few difficult choices as she journeys with a man whose own past - and future - is more entwined with hers than is first apparent. They both face great danger and heartache as they try to survive the path they have taken.
August 21, 2019
An interesting time travel romance.
Day of No Shadows is a time travel romance set in the land of the Mayans. The interesting cultural, historical and mythological information add to the story, giving us a perspective of the Mayan way of life in the past. The characters are good and have a slow burn romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Day of No Shadows is a time travel romance set in the land of the Mayans. The interesting cultural, historical and mythological information add to the story, giving us a perspective of the Mayan way of life in the past. The characters are good and have a slow burn romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2021
In total disclosure, we read each other’s books. That being said, I’ve never read this genre, and I’m glad this novel was my introduction. After traveling extensively in Mexico, I loved the descriptions of areas I’ve seen and a culture I know about. The characters were nuanced and the dialogue was sharp and interesting. Thanks for a good read!
July 19, 2019
This book is absolutely lovely. At first reading it, you wonder where it's going to go but by part 2 it really picked up and tied together nicely. The love story is beautiful and I enjoyed the insight on a different culture. A wonderful escape
August 24, 2019
I really love time travel books/stories, how they travel and the reasons. To me, the more interesting the more I'm sucked in and this story has done it for me!!!!!!!
October 6, 2019
*SPOILERS*
I was so captivated by De Leon's "Blue Amaryllis" that I jumped at the chance for this Mayan time-travel romance. After all, I'm currently going through a Mayan obsession after reading "Gods of Jade and Shadow", so I thought this would be a perfect pairing to revisit my beloved Xibalba. I was looking forward to what I thought were De Leon's signature stylistics - attention to description, attention to detail, and attention to plot. No theatrics or damsels in distress. Romance with realism, just the way I like it.
But perhaps this was a bit TOO realistic for me.
The beginning was interesting. We are jostled through the Yucatan and get to drink in the sights, the sounds, the old acquaintances reuniting, all peppered with Spanish phrasing that was translated in a very cohesive way for the "gringa" reader; I quite liked the childhood flashbacks of something off happening in a cenote, and the prickly sense of foreboding as the protagonist, Ines, compared her mental state to that of her late father, who deteriorated from Alzheimer's. Ines is a one-night-stand type of woman, and watching her battle her attraction to her tour guide and childhood frenemy, Nash (short for Ignacio), was entertaining for a chapter or two. Both of them are very spunky and have tempers, so their banter was also fun to read.
But then we arrive handily at Strike 1: Nash reveals he physically abused his ex-girlfriend.
And on the heels of Strike 1 is Strike 2: Ines, who initially shrinks back from this revelation of domestic violence, tries to comfort and reassure Nash that, well, accidents happen, pretty boy.
I get that abuse happens. I get that some people who abuse can change their ways. I get that De Leon was going for redemption, and it took some pluck to try to redeem one of the most hated traits of a male hero, the brutality factor.
But it didn't work. And more importantly, it didn't belong.
In case you were foolishly hanging out in the Nash + Ines camp, hoping for a happy ending, Strike 3 comes like a lightning strike a few chapters and several thousand time-leapt years later, when Nash has covertly dragged Ines into his change-the-world scheme to go back in time to save the Mayan empire. He has legitimately risked his and Ines' lives and MADE HER DIVE IN A CENOTE WITHOUT HER CONSENT TO TEST A CONSPIRACY THEORY. They are only accepted into Mayan society because they strip naked and bear a resemblance to reincarnated idols.
So, how does Nash celebrate his hair-brained theory being correct? How does he show his appreciation for Ines, who is playing the part of the reincarnated goddess Lady Chell and risking her life (and probably her body) in the process? How does he reassure Ines that he will protect her from a potential forced alliance with the King?
Nash has an orgy with some hot Mayan babes. RIGHT NEXT DOOR TO INES. LOUDLY.
But, you know, it's okay, because the next day he says something along the lines of, "But it meant nothing to me, Ines. You were the one I wanted."
Jesu Christo, some self-control would be nice.
The "romance", if you can even call drunken bachata dancing and watery kisses romance, is what ruined this book for me. The author was trying to multi-task too many themes and plots at once, and it took the momentum out of the book like a wind deflating from sails. Such a shame, because I was initially quite invested. But I can't ship domestic abusers, especially domestic abusers that are also cheaters.
I'll definitely give Sonia De Leon another read, because I did adore "Blue Amaryllis" so much. I just can't recommend this hot mess to anyone.
I was so captivated by De Leon's "Blue Amaryllis" that I jumped at the chance for this Mayan time-travel romance. After all, I'm currently going through a Mayan obsession after reading "Gods of Jade and Shadow", so I thought this would be a perfect pairing to revisit my beloved Xibalba. I was looking forward to what I thought were De Leon's signature stylistics - attention to description, attention to detail, and attention to plot. No theatrics or damsels in distress. Romance with realism, just the way I like it.
But perhaps this was a bit TOO realistic for me.
The beginning was interesting. We are jostled through the Yucatan and get to drink in the sights, the sounds, the old acquaintances reuniting, all peppered with Spanish phrasing that was translated in a very cohesive way for the "gringa" reader; I quite liked the childhood flashbacks of something off happening in a cenote, and the prickly sense of foreboding as the protagonist, Ines, compared her mental state to that of her late father, who deteriorated from Alzheimer's. Ines is a one-night-stand type of woman, and watching her battle her attraction to her tour guide and childhood frenemy, Nash (short for Ignacio), was entertaining for a chapter or two. Both of them are very spunky and have tempers, so their banter was also fun to read.
But then we arrive handily at Strike 1: Nash reveals he physically abused his ex-girlfriend.
And on the heels of Strike 1 is Strike 2: Ines, who initially shrinks back from this revelation of domestic violence, tries to comfort and reassure Nash that, well, accidents happen, pretty boy.
I get that abuse happens. I get that some people who abuse can change their ways. I get that De Leon was going for redemption, and it took some pluck to try to redeem one of the most hated traits of a male hero, the brutality factor.
But it didn't work. And more importantly, it didn't belong.
In case you were foolishly hanging out in the Nash + Ines camp, hoping for a happy ending, Strike 3 comes like a lightning strike a few chapters and several thousand time-leapt years later, when Nash has covertly dragged Ines into his change-the-world scheme to go back in time to save the Mayan empire. He has legitimately risked his and Ines' lives and MADE HER DIVE IN A CENOTE WITHOUT HER CONSENT TO TEST A CONSPIRACY THEORY. They are only accepted into Mayan society because they strip naked and bear a resemblance to reincarnated idols.
So, how does Nash celebrate his hair-brained theory being correct? How does he show his appreciation for Ines, who is playing the part of the reincarnated goddess Lady Chell and risking her life (and probably her body) in the process? How does he reassure Ines that he will protect her from a potential forced alliance with the King?
Nash has an orgy with some hot Mayan babes. RIGHT NEXT DOOR TO INES. LOUDLY.
But, you know, it's okay, because the next day he says something along the lines of, "But it meant nothing to me, Ines. You were the one I wanted."
Jesu Christo, some self-control would be nice.
The "romance", if you can even call drunken bachata dancing and watery kisses romance, is what ruined this book for me. The author was trying to multi-task too many themes and plots at once, and it took the momentum out of the book like a wind deflating from sails. Such a shame, because I was initially quite invested. But I can't ship domestic abusers, especially domestic abusers that are also cheaters.
I'll definitely give Sonia De Leon another read, because I did adore "Blue Amaryllis" so much. I just can't recommend this hot mess to anyone.
August 28, 2019
I was sent an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm going to have a hard time reviewing this one. On one hand I really enjoyed this and absolutely flew through it, staying up until a ridiculous hour because I couldn't put it down. The history was fascinating and I loved reading about the Maya civilisation because it's something I haven't read about in fiction before. There were a few cringey lines, particularly towards the end, but the writing certainly wasn't bad. The plot was very romance heavy, but that was exactly what I was after when picking this up.
TW: abusive relationships and sexual assault.
WARNING: I will be saying some things that could be considered spoilers, but I think they're important factors of the book. I can't review this properly without talking about them.
My main issue with this is that it's massively problematic. A huge feature of this book is abusive relationships and how that passes down generations. We know of a few different abusive relationships in this, the main two being between Ines and Nash, and their ancestors. Nash admits to having hit a woman who he was previously in a relationship with, going so far as to break her nose. He then goes on to get rough with Ines not once but twice that I can remember. Although the author makes a point to say that this behaviour isn't ok, the romance between them still continues, and at no point does Nash appear to work on bettering himself or receive any sort of counselling (admittedly hard when you time travel back to ancient Maya), he just miraculously stops. Or maybe he doesn't, once you get about 3/4 of the way through the book it isn't really brought up again, other than to suggest that maybe it's a good thing Ines and Nash fell in love with each others darker sides rather than learning about them further down the road.
I can't tell what message the author is trying to tell about abusive relationships - because they're clearly seen as bad, but honestly everything seemed to point towards telling the reader to wait out the abuse and love those parts of someone if you have such a passionate relationship. That is such a dangerous message to send. If someone hits you they will do it again and you need to get out as soon as you can.
There is also a graphic sexual assault scene that appears to only exist to highlight how awful another character is. I honestly don't understand why it needed to be written in. Or Nash being abusive. Ines doesn't seem to suffer any trauma from it, barely thinking on it other than to worry about what would happen if Nash found out and that he'd probably die if he tried to kill the person who assaulted her. She continues to act demure and respectful to the person, and ultimately nothing came from it. I definitely don't believe in adding assault to a novel for the sake of drama and hardship for the character to overcome, but if you do include it there needs to be some sort of discussion on it, even if it is just internal dialogue from the character.
Overall I'm quite disappointed. I otherwise really enjoyed this book, and if those two things hadn't existed or had been done differently then this would have been a 3-4 star read. I definitely think there is a time and place for both of those topics in fiction, and this could have been it if it had just been handled with more care.
I'm going to have a hard time reviewing this one. On one hand I really enjoyed this and absolutely flew through it, staying up until a ridiculous hour because I couldn't put it down. The history was fascinating and I loved reading about the Maya civilisation because it's something I haven't read about in fiction before. There were a few cringey lines, particularly towards the end, but the writing certainly wasn't bad. The plot was very romance heavy, but that was exactly what I was after when picking this up.
TW: abusive relationships and sexual assault.
WARNING: I will be saying some things that could be considered spoilers, but I think they're important factors of the book. I can't review this properly without talking about them.
My main issue with this is that it's massively problematic. A huge feature of this book is abusive relationships and how that passes down generations. We know of a few different abusive relationships in this, the main two being between Ines and Nash, and their ancestors. Nash admits to having hit a woman who he was previously in a relationship with, going so far as to break her nose. He then goes on to get rough with Ines not once but twice that I can remember. Although the author makes a point to say that this behaviour isn't ok, the romance between them still continues, and at no point does Nash appear to work on bettering himself or receive any sort of counselling (admittedly hard when you time travel back to ancient Maya), he just miraculously stops. Or maybe he doesn't, once you get about 3/4 of the way through the book it isn't really brought up again, other than to suggest that maybe it's a good thing Ines and Nash fell in love with each others darker sides rather than learning about them further down the road.
I can't tell what message the author is trying to tell about abusive relationships - because they're clearly seen as bad, but honestly everything seemed to point towards telling the reader to wait out the abuse and love those parts of someone if you have such a passionate relationship. That is such a dangerous message to send. If someone hits you they will do it again and you need to get out as soon as you can.
There is also a graphic sexual assault scene that appears to only exist to highlight how awful another character is. I honestly don't understand why it needed to be written in. Or Nash being abusive. Ines doesn't seem to suffer any trauma from it, barely thinking on it other than to worry about what would happen if Nash found out and that he'd probably die if he tried to kill the person who assaulted her. She continues to act demure and respectful to the person, and ultimately nothing came from it. I definitely don't believe in adding assault to a novel for the sake of drama and hardship for the character to overcome, but if you do include it there needs to be some sort of discussion on it, even if it is just internal dialogue from the character.
Overall I'm quite disappointed. I otherwise really enjoyed this book, and if those two things hadn't existed or had been done differently then this would have been a 3-4 star read. I definitely think there is a time and place for both of those topics in fiction, and this could have been it if it had just been handled with more care.
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