Reviews with content warning for Violence - Dawn

The first in a series, Dawn effectively paved the way for an incredible and memorable trilogy. A big concept with a captivating FMC. This book would permeate my thoughts when I wasn't reading it, which doesn't happen often.

The topic of sexuality was an interesting one; it puzzled and disturbed me to an extent; but it was welcome! It forced me to ponder the strict ideas of sexuality that are touted in mainstream culture in the U.S. that I've naturally adopted. As with any alien book, I couldn't help but think about what I would do in a similar situation. Dawn takes this a step further with the "trade" that is forced upon future generations of humans.

Butler's writing eventually became repetitive for me, particularly emotions and dialog tags. I think this is intentional, given the plot is somewhat complex. I felt zero chemistry with the love interest, which wasn't a huge deal since that wasn't the focus.

Overall, the first of Lilith's Brood was a tantalizing peak into the incredible mind of Butler. Words can't describe how excited I am to read the next two books. I'm ready for whatever wild ride Butler takes me on!

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finchthearcher's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

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belovedsnail's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Fascinating and compelling.

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tigerbalmbby's review against another edition

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dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

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elizmckinney9's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark medium-paced

3.75

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whirling_words's review against another edition

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challenging dark tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Dark and challenging read, challenges you to think more critically about the trope of aliens coming in to save the world and the humans in it. Like all Octavia Butler, a difficult read but overall a great one. 4 out of 5 due to time skip issue and some inconsistencies.

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blazingquill's review against another edition

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challenging dark reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This is a disturbing read that creates a horrific story about breaches in consent and the abuse of colonization. It asks the question, “what are you able to do when you’re helpless?” then weaves a complex answer considering love, hate, and resistance. It’s a story that could not have come from another author, and I think is an important read.

That being said, despite its discussion of gender, it maintains a very cis and straight perspective throughout, which effected my reading of the book. There is also a very complex relationship that edges into both abuse and pedophilia that I think was intended to be read as disturbing but I know could be interpreted differently. Heavy content warnings as well for: nonconsensual procedures, noncon relationships, rape, forced sterilization, and sensory deprivation torture.

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knkoch's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Another splendid adventure in the Octavia E. Butler canon! I’ve been increasingly curious and tempted by science fiction, and easing into that genre through Butler’s works (I read Parable of the Sower a few months ago) has been a solid path so far for me. I received this as a gift this past Christmas, and it’s the first in the Xenogenesis/Lillith’s Brood series. I looked up buying the next two books immediately after finishing Dawn.

The action was propulsive and riveting. The stakes felt high and I was easily invested in the fate of the characters and their various goals. The minimal premise/setting (especially initially) was a great way to introduce Lillith as a character and watch her react to her situation. I liked her just as much as Lauren from Parable. I love watching smart, pragmatic characters work their way through problems. Can’t wait to tackle the next book soon!

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