Unravel the Dusk

May 15, 2020
Cursed, heartbroken, and still trying to save her country. In this sequel to the Asian-inspired fantasy Spin the Dawn (2019), readers are reintroduced to Maia, now more hardened yet emotionally torn. Though she has discovered great powers and successfully created dresses with elements from the sun, moon, and stars, the country of A'landi is in more turmoil than ever. As she fights alongside an emperor she is quickly coming to despise, Maia also battles a curse that is slowly transforming her into a monster with no memory of her past, love, or family. Her powers, both demonic and magical tailoring skills, however, may help her face the demon controlling the other side of the war. The pacing is a bit uneven, and it is recommended to read the previous book to be able to follow along with the events. The beginning jumps from crisis to crisis without much breathing room but later takes more time for character development, including that of two other strong females. The strength of this story lies in Maia's internal struggles and the ways the author weaves in lessons learned through various Asian myths and legends. Readers who enjoyed the first book will find everything amped up here, including the violence and drama. (map) (Fantasy. 14-18)

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September 25, 2020

Gr 7 Up-Maia Tamarin completed the daunting task of sewing the laughter of the sun, the tears of the moon, and the blood of the stars into Amana's legendary dresses. She's now the Emperor's master tailor, but at a cost. Every day she loses more of her humanity as her deal with the demon Bandur changes her in unspeakable ways. War is threatening upheaval in her country, and with her love, Edan, in hiding since he was set free of his servitude, it's up to Maia to ensure A'landi's peace before her demon-side consumes her. Closing out "The Blood of Stars" duology, this novel's fast-paced plot in Part One slowly gives way to a character-driven tale in Parts Two and Three. Two strong females are at the center of the cast of characters as councilors, generals, protectors, and leaders in the fate of A'landi. Maia's internal battle as she changes into a demon opens up an avenue for readers to explore how emotions can overwhelm a person while they learn to process what they're feeling. Weaving in East Asian legends such as the thousand origami cranes and the red thread of fate aids in the rich world-building. Maia has pale skin, warm brown eyes, and freckles. Edan has black curly hair and blue eyes. As in the first in the duology, based on the descriptive setting, most other characters are cued as East Asian. VERDICT A great addition to bookshelves, this one will please fans of the anime Your Name and readers of Leigh Bardugo's "Shadow and Bone" trilogy.-Emily Walker, Lisle Lib. Dist., IL

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