I tried so so many times to read this book, I split it up and sectioned it out and I put it to one side and went back to it later. I could not progress. I felt like it was written in a way that my brain just couldn't process.

I was so excited from the premise, but I just couldn't get through it. Now the audio has come out I will re-visit, but as a physical read it was too complex in the wording for me when I picked it up.

Thought that this book had a unique premise but there was a lot of info-dumping at the beginning and I didn't get attached to the characters

I enjoyed this one.

The writing was fine, and the world and characters were enjoyable.
Overall it lacked a little depth, but I still had fun reading it.

I enjoyed this one. I listened to both the audiobook and ebook alongside one another thanks to NetGalley and the narrator did a really good job. The story itself is engaging, the twists twisting and the characters felt real.

Reina and Eva are two sides of the same coin and I’m interested to see where their story goes. Both are manipulated by those in power which leads to them seeming to have no agency in their choices. I was a little irritated by the way Reina is still so obsessed with Celeste at the end even after everything. I hope the second book sees her becoming more of her own person away from the decisions of other people.

This was a lush and vibrant book that was far darker than I expected, and I really enjoyed it. I did struggle to keep the two plots straight initially, but thought that the way in which they came together was really well done. I loved Reina and Eva and the very real danger they both faced, as well as their moral dilemmas, which gave both characters a lot of depth. The world was fascinating and the various types of magic on display were intriguing. Overall, I found this to be a really compelling read and I will definitely pick up the sequel.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Great debut, enjoyable first half of the book but I found the latter half of the book a bit meh. I felt it was a bit too long, last 100 pages could have been cut out.

I’m afraid I had to DNF this book. I gave it a couple of hundred pages but unfortunately not enough happened to capture and retain my imagination.

I really enjoyed this fantasy novel. I like that it draws on South American mythology, and the world that was created was rich and illustrative. I did struggle to fully understand some of the magical systems, the history of the nozariels/valcos/humans etc. So some parts of the story were a little harder to grasp. Not all of the characters were easy to connect with (which is fine), but I did struggle a little with Reina, who is one of the main characters, and so I found myself not enjoying her chapters as much as I did with Eva's. But all in all, I did enjoy reading this.

This was a brilliant book, excellent writing ✍️ and brilliant story telling, I love a book that feels immersive for the reader and this definitely had that!

For a world that is so dark and involves sacrificial killings, bloodlines, and (vengeful) Gods, the book truly tries to shy away from diving deeper into any of that.

Throughout the entire reading experience (I ended up picking the audiobook up as well), I was never fully gripped by the characters or the story.
Reina is definitely the underdog and I was very intrigued by why her grandmother Ursulina would send in the first place but I struggled more and more with her decisions as the story went on.
Eva's a little more... basic might be the word. Her point of view does feel a little bit like "not like other girls" and again, I don't think she lived up to the potential that was hinted at in the earlier chapters.

And then the big finale felt both too convenient and not even the interesting family dynamics saved it.
As for the worldbuilding, I think I'm bothered that it's such a small scale when the world felt so large? From the roles of the nozariel to the religion, it was all very simple and inorganic.

A sapphic fantasy with complex world-building and richly detailed prose. It was quite a dense book to first get into but I quickly became immersed in the story. Engaging and rewarding.

The Sun and the Void was such an incredible book! I loved the magic, the politics, the world building and the development of the characters, they just felt very real and complete. I loved learning about the folklore and religion. I do think the pace of the book as a bit slow which is why I can't give 5 stars but it's still an amazing debut and I'm excited to continue reading the series.

I recently had the pleasure of delving into this book, and I am beyond impressed with the mesmerizing world that the author has crafted. From start to finish, the intricate plot weaves a tapestry of suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

One of the standout features of this book is undoubtedly its characters. Each one is meticulously developed, breathing life into the narrative with their unique personalities, motivations, and flaws. The protagonists are not just names on paper; they are relatable, complex individuals with whom readers can form a genuine connection. The antagonist, too, is not a mere foil but a multi-dimensional force that adds depth to the story. The author's ability to create such well-rounded characters is a testament to their storytelling prowess.

The plot unfolds seamlessly, drawing the reader into a richly layered narrative that expertly balances tension, drama, and moments of poignant reflection. The pacing is impeccable, maintaining a perfect rhythm that keeps the reader engaged without sacrificing the depth of the story. The author skillfully navigates through various plot arcs, interweaving them with finesse to create a cohesive and satisfying whole.

What sets this book apart is its ability to tackle profound themes while maintaining an accessible and engaging narrative. The book seamlessly combines suspense and emotional depth, making it a truly immersive experience. The author's prose is both elegant and evocative, painting vivid imagery that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.

As I reached the conclusion, I found myself yearning for more from this talented author. Their ability to craft a gripping plot and bring characters to life is truly commendable. I eagerly anticipate future works and would wholeheartedly recommend this book to any reader who appreciates a masterfully told tale. If you're searching for a book that seamlessly blends captivating characters with a compelling plot, this is a shining example. I can't wait to explore more literary worlds crafted by this exceptional storyteller.

3.5 stars

disclaimer : I received a copy free from the publishers via netgalley in exchange for an honest review

rep: venezuelan and columbian inspired setting & characters, sapphic characters, f/f romance

content warnings: violence, death, child death, abuse, emotional abuse, gore, racism and slavery, kidnapping

The Sun and the Void is a venezuelan and columbian inspired fantasy about two women fighting to find their place in the world. My favourite thing about this novel are the characters and the development that they went through throughout the novel, from niave girls to strong and powerful women in different ways either through magic or through fighting prowess. There were plenty of warrior women, but also plenty of soft women too. Plenty of sapphic characters & a central f/f romance. Plenty of mythology and folklore and magic to keep most fantasy readers interested. My only issue with this novel was the plot in places just felt lacklustre and struggled to hold my attention for most of the novel but truly ended on a really strong note hence the 3.5 rating.

Disclaimer: e-Arc provided by Daphne Press, via Net Galley for Review. All thoughts are my own. My thanks to Daphne Press, for providing me with the arc for review.

DNF’d at 30%

Thoughts
I gave up on this book at about 30%, I just wasn’t enjoying it and couldn’t follow what was happening. The only thing I could keep track of was the romantic vibes between the main couple. I tried the ebook of the Arc, the physical copy from illumicrate and the audiobook from my library, this book just isn’t for me.

Sorry, but this one didn't work for me. It was a slow paced read, and I didn't connect with the characters. I also didn't love some of the themes seen in this book. Please check the trigger warmings before going into this one.

Thanks for the copy in exchange for an honest review. I am a firm believer that no one reads the same book, so if this book interests you, give it a shot. Make your own judgement.

Happy reading!

I really wanted to love this book, it sounded so interesting but it just didn’t work for me. It was really slow to start and i just didn’t feel invested in the characters. But I know that others will enjoy it..

Where to start with this wonderfully written world.

This story is quite slow in pace, and it takes time to draw the characters and create the world around you to help you immerse yourself, this doesn't suit everyone but I am used to these sort of books, and the detailed descriptions really help, but stick with it and it picks up.

There are some difficult themes with this book, but they are done in such a way that it does not distract from the story, in particular the approach to racism.

The characters are not lovable in the traditional sense, they are volatile and come across as evil especially towards people they "love". however that is quite refreshing to the typical story I read, in my opinion.

I went in with no expectations and I am leaving wanting more.

Thank you Netgalley for providing an ARC.

I dnfed when I read about the absurd, unrealistic magic system. The writing didn't do enough to hold my interest so that I could overlook that.

I have heard so many fantastic things about this book and it did not disappoint. The world building was brilliant, the characters were loveable and relatable. Would definitely recommend!