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 The Song of Sunrise

by Monica J. Deloy



Review of The Song of Sunrise

This book was an absolute standout for me, I was hooked from the very first page and genuinely disappointed when I realized I’d have to wait for the sequel. What impressed me most was how unpredictable the story was. I thought I knew where the romance was heading, but the author completely surprised me in the best way.

The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, with a well-constructed magic system supported by layered politics and history that gave real depth to the plot. The writing also shines in its inclusivity and thoughtful representation, which only added to my appreciation of the story.

Akemi, our fierce female lead, felt refreshingly real. Her choices, flaws, and resilience made her an easy character to admire, and I loved watching her grow stronger with every challenge. Then there’s Atlys—dark, magnetic, and impossible to forget. The tension between them absolutely leapt off the page, and their dynamic had me breathless. The romantic elements, combined with tropes like enemies-to-lovers, trials, and a hint of a love triangle, were executed in a way that felt familiar yet entirely fresh.

The premise itself is captivating: Akemi Nox, an apprentice bard, joins a military academy for magic wielders after her hometown is destroyed by Underlings. Driven by vengeance and a desire to protect humanity, she risks everything to compete in deadly trials for a stone powerful enough to shield human settlements. This journey delivers not only magic and mythical beings, but also themes of resilience, justice, and belonging.

The magic system is particularly compelling. Humans aren’t naturally magical, but they can channel power through stones, categorized as Sun Watchers, Moon Watchers, or the rare Star Watchers. This layered system, combined with vivid descriptions of the world, made it easy to lose myself in the setting, it felt alive and enchanting.

From found family bonds to mythical creatures to a slow-burn romance full of tension, The Song of Sunrise had everything I could want in a romantasy. The cliffhanger ending was brutal (you’ve been warned!), but I have absolutely no regrets diving into this book. It’s a fresh, imaginative, and exhilarating story that blends unique worldbuilding with some of my favorite tropes. I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next installment.



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