A review by rubihoskins
Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim

3.0

I truly wish I loved the book more than I did. After reading the blurb, I was extremely intrigued. The concept of the story itself is unique. For me it slightly reminded me of the story of Mulan mixed with project runway. The beginning (part 1) of the story sucked me in straight away. The writing style is intoxicating and creates such vivid imagery of the world it’s set in. I loved reading about Maia’s passion for sewing and for her family. However, once it moved onto her journey with Edan I felt like everything which made the first section unique kind of fizzled out. Personally I didn’t believe in Edan and Maia’s relationship. I thought it felt forced. I would have loved to have seen a friendship form rather than another unneeded couple. Sometimes, I felt like the magic was too unbelievable.

I really liked Maia’s character. I felt her passion through the pages in the first section of the book. Her unwavering love for her family and Edan had me swelling up inside. (Although I still would have preferred Edan as a friend).

I hope in the second book we get to explore more of the side characters. I’m intrigued by Lady Sarnai. How does she resist the emperors charms? The ending was left on a slight cliff hanger so I will be reading on.

Overall, I did enjoy this book especially the setting and initial concept of the story. I do want to read on and I have hope for the second book.