This is a 3.5, check the TW
Yasmin is trying to survive and has already been through some major trauma at the beginning of the book. She is forced to guide Ravi back to the place that caused the majority of the trauma. I really did not like Ravi at the beginning. He started out arrogant and unlikable, but grew into a more compassionate person. Yasimin dislikes elves, Ravi dislikes pretty much everyone. Neither trust or like the other but in order to make the journey and complete their mission they need to learn to rely on each other and watch each others backs. Watching them evolve was what kept me reading.

The author did a good job of creating a believable world for the story to take place in. However, there were some slow parts that dragged on and caused me to lose interest. But overall, it was a good read, and I look forward to the next book in the series.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Hold onto your cloaks and sharpen those elfin ears, because Donna Grant is whisking us away on a wickedly seductive ride in her latest series! In a tale where danger and desire blend as smoothly as a well-mixed potion, we meet Yasmin—a bewitching human with secrets as deep as the dungeons of Shaldorn—and Ravi, the deliciously ruthless elf who is as swoon-worthy as he is judgmental.

When Yasmin, a survivor with a heart cloaked in shadows, is caught stealing, she’s thrust into a treacherous bargain: escort the enigmatic Ravi across the Dangerous Peaks or face a fate worse than her darkest nightmares. But what starts as a journey teetering on the edge of animosity, blossoms into an all-consuming passion that could either be their salvation or their undoing.

With each step towards the impenetrable stronghold, their journey intensifies—full of peril, promises, and a slow-burning romance that’ll leave you breathless (and yes, Ravi is definitely worth the wait!). As they navigate the thin line between love and hate, secrets unravel, and the stakes soar higher than the peaks themselves.

Will Yasmin keep her word? Can this unlikely pair breach the fortress walls—and the barriers around their hearts? And more importantly, can they make it back out?

Grant’s narrative is a masterclass in world-building—complete with a glossary of Elf classes that’s as detailed as it is delightful. True enemies-to-lovers fans, gather round, because this is a love story with teeth and truth, wrapped in layers of lush, mythical intrigue. And let’s not forget more Dain—because, seriously, who could get enough of that?

This is why Donna has been one of my favorite authors since 2012. Get ready to be enthralled, enchanted, and utterly entwined with Yasmin and Ravi’s adventure. A five-star fantasy that’s as thrilling as it is transformative. Don’t miss this ride!

**This ARC was received from NetGalley for my honest review **

Review was posted on goodreads

Donna Grant crafted a tempting novel that will leave many questions about the series left unanswered … until book 2 comes out. If you adore spy’s, tragic pasts and quest this is a great book to dip into.

This was an ARC (thank you NetGalley) , the start of this series is filled with; fast paced action
A forced Quest.
An MC whose past makes them cautious of the future.
And slow burn.
High fantasy vibes.

I do have many questions I want answered. I am hopeful in the next book we can dive deeper into both of their past as the sample we were given hasn’t been enough.

It was an interesting concept but the book just didn't hold my attention. I dnf'd it about 40% in . I couldn't find any of the characters interesting enough to keep my attention and the story just didn't do anything for me.

Loved reading the mesmerizing and spellbinding story. Even though Yasmin does not want to return to Shaldorn,, she has to guide agent, Ravi, into the city to retrieve a device. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read story full of mystery and romance. Can't wait to read the next story in the series by the phenomenal author, Donna Grant!

A huge thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC for Rising Sun for an honest review.

Book: Rising Sun by Donna Grant
Series: Elven Kingdoms
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5

Review: Rising Sun is a fantasy romance book, based in a world with Fae and Humans. The Fae are categorised into the 7 races of elves (Sun, Moon, Star, Sea, Wood, Mountain and Dark elves) which each harness unique magic. This story follows Yasmin (MMC) a magic-less human who must work alongside an elf (Ravi / MMC) who works for an agency to stop a war from beginning within their realm. This book has high stakes, one-tent trope, trauma and growth from the characters and forced proximity. I really enjoyed following Yasmine she is a competent, strong FMC who holds secrets from her past and has a hatred towards the elves. I really enjoyed this fantasy book and I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here! 🧚✨☀️🌙🌊