Daybreak Rising

by Kiran Oliver

[Angie]

If you’re looking for a deliciously diverse New Adult Science Fiction novel with interesting characters, a complicated world, and kissing, Daybreak Rising is it! Celosia was suppose to save her people from the evils of the Council, but didn’t. Fast forward a few years and she’s heading another attempt to free everyone. Of course, the others involved aren’t too happy to report to her, but Celosia is determined to take down the Council once and for all. Not just to redeem herself, but because it’s the right thing to do, and she won’t let anyone tell her otherwise. Even herself.

While Celosia is the star, Daybreak Rising actually alternates between several different POVs. It never gets confusing though! Partly because it’s told in third person, so there’s always names, but also because each character feels distinct. Ianthe and Kayvun are totally my favorites! I want to have a slumber party with them! Ianthe is just adorable and sweet, but can freeze your butt off. Kayvun is fierce and always speaks her mind with no shame. And the best part is, everyone is on the QUILTBAG spectrum and or a person of color and or disabled. That is amazing to me! And none of it feels forced for the sake of diversity. These characters are who they are and feel genuine.

Daybreak Rising also has a lot of interesting world building. We get to see a lot of different sides to the world: military, political, technical, religious, historical, all of it! There’s a lot going on, but it’s necessary because of the nature of the plot. And I really love good world building. I was especially interested when the religions were brought up. They’re unique and are intricately connected to the political situation in each region. For instance, Kayvun comes from a place where healing magic is common, but it’s against their faith to get paid for their services. As a result, she lived in poverty until she joined the regime.

Daybreak Rising is just one of those books that you must experience for yourself. It might seem like a typical “over throw the establishment” type Fantasy, but it’s not. Well, it does follow that general plot, but it felt fresh. Usually the hero/ine is just coming into their abilities and is thrust into a leadership role, but Celosia has already been there, done that, and failed. She’s getting a second chance though.

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.