Arc Review
Title: Dawn’s Light
Series: Duskblade, Book One
Author: Shannon Blair
Publisher:NineStar Press
Release Date: 02/22/2021
Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex
Pairing: Male/Male
Length: 86300
I got the great pleasure of reading this book as an ARC. I loved the fantasy aspect of this book and the storytelling is amazing. Shannon has a way of pulling you in and keeping you hooked.
The beginning of the story was almost confusing since I knew nothing of this world or the inhabitants, but the more I read the easier it was to assimilate. I could picture Moranthus and his “shameful” hairstyle telling others of his partial banishment. I understood the conflict that brought him to this lifestyle.
It took me a hot mintue to like Gerrick, but I did see things from his perspective. I never give away the story and I don’t belive a review must have spoilers…I want the readers to find out by doing what they do best – read!
I will say, the story is well thought out and the relationship between the MCs makes sense. It’s not a rushed story between the men, which I like. It takes time for them to trust, much less like each other. It progresses at a pace that I’d expect for real life.
I’m glad this is the first book in a series. I look forward to reading more of this world!
Genre: Fantasy, LGBTQIA+, Royalty, first time, sexual discovery, elves, goblins, duplicity, mercenaries, kidnapping, revenge, action/adventure, coming out, enemies to lovers, in the closet, slow burn, road trip
Here’s the book description.
Moranthus is an elf who has lost everything. With his lover dead and his career stagnating, he jumps at a chance to redeem himself by rescuing a human prince from the goblins hunting him—even if failure means death or eternal exile from his homeland.
Gerrick, a human soldier who bears an uncanny resemblance to his prince, has always chosen duty over desire. As the sole parent of his young daughter, he needs the extra coin that working as the prince’s body double provides—even if it may one day cost him his life.
When a case of mistaken identity puts the prince in the hands of a goblin raiding party, Moranthus’s and Gerrick’s paths collide. With winter closing in and miles of hostile goblin lands ahead, they must set aside their differences and work together to bring the prince home safely.
Their deepening connection comes with a growing certainty that rescuing the prince may be fatal. Moranthus and Gerrick must each find a way to reconcile his heart’s desires with his homeland’s needs—or die trying.
Buy Links Nine Star
Buy Link: Amazon
Meet the Author
Shannon Blair is a fantasy author with a fondness for elves, goblins, and general otherworldly goodness. Their love of fiction and storytelling drove them to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing from Regis University, where a short writing exercise spiraled out of control and eventually became their first novel. When they aren’t on a quest to make the fantasy genre a more LGBTQA-friendly place, Shannon can be found inventing whimsical backstories for the colorful crafts and vendors at the craft market where they work. They live on the outskirts of the Denver metroplex with their partner and two spoiled rotten cats.
Rosie Jarvis, Author 