Yona of the Dawn, Vol. 1 (Yona of the Dawn, #1)

by Mizuho Kusanagi

[Quirky Cat]

Summary:

Princess Yona has lived a sheltered life. She's the kingdom's only princess and the king's only child. Naturally, that means she's quite doted on. It's safe to say she's used to getting what she wants. Currently, what she wants is the love of her life.

Unfortunately, her life is about to go off the rails. The murder of the king – her father – will set everything in motion, and not in a good way. Now she's alone but for her most loyal guard, Hak. Together they will run and fight to survive.

Review:

I know this series is already ten years old, but I swear it was just yesterday when I saw the first volume release. Maybe I'm just confused because I saw the latest volume going out? That or time has no meaning. I'm leaning toward the latter.

Anyway, I've been looking forward to Yona of the Dawn Vol. 1. I recently had it recommended as a sweet romantic series to dive into. While I'm happy to have tried it, I don't think I would have applied that description, personally. Maybe that element grows with time?

In truth, Princess Yona was...frustrating. She's spoiled and has no idea what the real world is like. In her defense, she's had no reason/way to learn about the real world, so you can't judge her too harshly. But it did make it harder to connect with the story and everything happening around her. And to be clear, it is all happening TO and AROUND her. Yona, at the end of volume 1, doesn't have much agency. I hope that's a "yet" situation, but only time will tell.

Will I continue the series? Eh, no.

Highlights:
Romance
Adventure/Fantasy
Royalty

Trigger Warnings:
Familial Death

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