I very much wanted to love the idea of this book and I have to admit I was completely drawn in by that cover. Its beautiful in my opinion and I wanted so much to enjoy this book. It was an okay read. I think I was expecting more from it and it was just fine.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC! Full disclosure: I do personally know Sunya, and I've been so excited to read this book ever since she announced it. From the vivid prose to the inventive lore and world-building, there's so much to love here! I was already drawn to the beautiful cover art before diving in, but I have an even greater appreciation for it after finishing the book. Vesper is such a realistic, nuanced protagonist, and her little moments of dry humor were so fun to read. I especially loved her relationship with her parents and the whole theme of discovering who you are outside of where you come from. After that ending, I can't wait to see where book two goes!

This is a hard one because for the majority I thoroughly enjoyed this book, however there was one section that I feel just ruined it! In between leaving the storm and the final trails the pace got lost. It feels as if a page were missing where we find out Vesper and her father will face the trails together. Also, though beautiful, the amount of detail given to each and every feeling a character had actually ended up being quite overwhelming and unclear at times. Especially Dalca's sudden shift at the end of the book, it felt as if there was no clear reason or turning point, he just suddenly changed for the sake of the plotline. This being said I did find the story gripping and original, it had all the ingredients you want in a fantasy YA. The characters were incredibly relatable and fully realised, although I wish there were more diverse characters in pivotal roles. Cas for example would have been a wonderful character to explore as non-binary. I would recommend as a library purchase and I look forward to seeing where the story goes next.

The book had quite an interesting concept and was unique. Vesper’s inability to know much was a contrast to how she was able to get into the Prince’s business quite fast. I think there were times when transitions were needed in the story instead of abruptly changing course. Also, the descriptions in the storm were confusing. So while I liked the plot, this wasn’t my favorite. I thank Netgalley for the ARC and feel confident that editing will make this a little bit more smooth to read.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this book.

The Darkening is a YA Fantasy that follows Vesper, a girl who is trapped in a city that is terrorized by The Storm. I really enjoyed the very beginning. I felt like the first few pages were really strong, and I was excited at that point to continue reading. Unfortunately, it lost me after that. A lot of the story dragged for me and it was actually kind of difficult for me to finish this one. I did really enjoy the author's descriptions throughout the book. I thought the writing was vivid. Overall, this book fell a little flat for me, however I do think it would be good for younger readers who are getting into the fantasy genre.

I got this from Netgalley and these opinions are my own. I enjoyed this book! Wasn't in my favorites but it was good. Vesper was an enjoyable protaganoist! It was a bit slow to get into but then it picks up and of course the ending leaves the reader needing to know what comes next! Looking forward to see what it next for Vesper!

A solid start to a new fantasy series. Heavy on abilities light on romance (although clearly laid a path for it to develop later on in the books). I think great for YA readers.

This is the first in a series but to me it read like it was from the middle of a series, with words like "ikonmancer" and Stormborn being used without explanation. I would have loved some background, even as a foreword for how the story began. Instead, the reader is swept into the story, and I found myself able to catch on pretty quickly.

Vesper Vale and her father live with Amma and her shelter for people who have been cursed. They care for people and try to avoid the dangerous Storm which hovers overhead. Vesper's father is skilled in his use of ikonomancers, which are creations he draws to conjure up objects or spells. Vesper has only learned rudimentary symbols, but one day she endangers everyone and forces her Pa to create an ikonomancer and risk being caught by the Regia (government). Her father is captured, and Vesper sets off to rescue him. She bands with the Prince of the Regia and other guards who have their own reasons for rescuing her father.

This story had so many interesting aspects, including mindfulness, resourcefulness, and STEAM aspects. It would be great to use as an accompaniment for learning 3D printing. I think this was an entertaining read, but wish there was more background given.

I think this is a good book to turn to for readalikes for YA fantasy books. To me, there wasn't anything super original in it, I wasn't surprised by anything (except for the lack of a love triangle, SUCH a bonus for me) so it isn't one I'll immediately turn to. Still, for readers who are looking for a fantasy, a spooky storm, and an interesting world, it'll be one I recommend secondarily! And I'm always glad to know about those.