5.74k reviews for:

Spin the Dawn

Elizabeth Lim

3.92 AVERAGE


this is phenomenal and i do not know how i didn't read this sooner. oh my.
medium-paced

The idea was a bit Mulan meets tailor skills - called by the emperor, disguised to take the place of the male of her family for her father’s renowned skill. And then add in Aladdin genie tropes.

The idea of the three “tests” being materials was interesting. Not really sure what was drawing the FMC and MMC together. I didn’t really understand their chemistry. 

This book was alright. I got through it without issue, but once I return it to the library I won't be buying it or reading it again. Probably won't read the sequel. Pacing was good, characters decent, romance sweet.

But the plot just felt like other popular culture pieces smashed together. The first 1/3 of the book was Project Runway, down to the rows of tables for competitors to work at, guest judges, backstabbing drama, eliminations and unrealistic materials to work with that everyone has to fight over.

Second 2/3 of the book felt very much like The Realms of the Gods by Tamora Pierce.
Spoiler"Much older male mage who transforms into a hawk travels with a younger female love interest on a perilous journey full of magic." That sentence could honestly describe either book.


Final 3/3 part of the book was more unique, and I could enjoy the story without constantly being reminded of something else. But overall not worth a re-read to me.

Standard ya fantasy with boring plot and characters. If I remember correctly it is perfect for younger readers who grown out of children books but aren't ready for more mature content 
adventurous mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

This book had some pacing problems but I really did enjoy it.
adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious sad 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
adventurous hopeful inspiring tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: No