A year has passed since the nightmares began, and Dana is running on fumes. Her nightly torture by demons has left her reliant on caffeine and desperate for change.
Change comes, in the most unexpected way. When a demon comes for her in real life, Dana is saved by an Order of local demon hunters. They offer to help her to manifest and learn to control her own brand of magic, which could turn her life around. It will take time, but Dana is prepared to put in the work. That is, until she encounters the demon king himself who promises she won't have to wait--and is left with her head spinning.
Dana knows nothing good will come from trusting the demons--but she doesn't know how much longer she can handle the nightmares. It's not until a charming stranger starts turning up in her dreams and helping her out of sticky situations that she realizes she may have a third option. Unfortunately for Dana, he's a demon too--but he has just the bargain that could get her out of this mess for good.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for the review and I coached Jo through publication*
I freaking loved this book. Genuinely. Because I worked with Jo professionally, I saw an earlier draft of the book and it's come a long way from there. I will preface by saying that I don't think this is Jo's best work yet (greater books are definitely on the horizon as she refines her skills) but this book is still incredibly engaging with an unmissable ending (you definitely don't want to give up on this book halfway through--the twiiiiist!)
The characters develop and grow after a while and I found myself identifying unique quirks that they all had. The story starts a little fast paced but eases in a comfortable speed that is filled with action, excitement, and at times, humour. I especially grew a soft spot for two of the characters and I actually nearly cried at the end. Without spoiling anything, Dana sets herself up in a powerful position for exciting conflicts in book two. I loved seeing her grow as a character and I honestly cannot wait to see what happens next!
*** I RECEIVED AN ADVANCED READER COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR A HONEST REVIEW. ***
No spoilers included:
This author has real potential. The beginning of this book was a little rough for me, the dialogue needed some work but as it progressed it seemed the author really gained her footing and her characters really came to life. I really loved the descriptions used and the fact that painful and uncomfortable subjects were not shied away from.
I am excited to see what the author produces next! Totally worth a read.
Very engaging and accessible read. Dana is surprisingly relatable for a teenage girl with supernatural powers. This book tackles some really serious issues head-on and does not shy away from its character’s flaws. Definitely worth a read!
Jo has written a great debut, YA dark fantasy novel. A young woman, Dana, has nightmares about demons chasing her. Desperate for safety (and a good nights sleep), Dana is found by a group of demon hunters. She soon discovers there’s more to her nightmares than meets the eye...
A great debut dark fantasy novel with serious themes. But the writing doesn’t bog you down, if anything it’s short and to the point. I really enjoyed the story and I’m excited to see the direction this series is going!
Intriguing from start to finish! Loved getting to follow Dana on her journey, battling real-life issues, with a supernatural twist. The book is written in such great detail, it almost feels like you're a fly on the wall. The ending left me shook, wanting more! I highly recommend this read. I look forward to more from Jo Narayan! P.s. The book the a nifty guide on pronunciation towards the back of the book!