Meet New Books
Book Cover

Child of the Daystar

Book 1 in the series:The Wings of War

Save:
Find on Amazon

Who Would Like This Book:

If you crave gritty, character-driven fantasy with a twist, you'll enjoy this one. The main character Raz is a lizard-like antihero navigating a harsh, prejudice-filled world. There's fantastic world-building, heart-wrenching family drama, and intense action. Fans of morally gray stories, found family, and non-human protagonists will find Raz’s journey both touching and exhilarating. If you’ve ever wanted a fantasy hero cut from a very different cloth - this is your book.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found the grimdark elements a bit too heavy, with an unrelentingly bleak atmosphere. Others thought the plot dragged in parts, particularly during introspective or philosophical sections (hello, pacifist monks and historical letters). The female lead also didn't connect with everyone, and the occasional use of grim tropes, violence, and filler chapters may put off those looking for something lighter or more tightly paced.

Gritty, emotional, and refreshingly different - child of the daystar absolutely shines for anyone who wants a dark, character-rich fantasy that breaks the mold, but it’s not for those who shy away from harsh realities and slow builds.

About:

'Child of the Daystar' is a dark fantasy novel that follows the journey of Raz, a unique dragon humanoid character, as he navigates a cruel world filled with prejudice, tragedy, and intrigue. The story delves into Raz's early years of horror, his healing as a foster child, and the complexities of being raised by humans while not being one himself. The narrative also intertwines the story of Syrah, a young albino child with a significant impact on Raz's journey. The book explores themes of survival, betrayal, growth, and the search for identity, all set in a well-paced and vividly detailed world.

The book is praised for its enchanting storytelling, realistic character development, and compelling plot filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. The writing style is noted for its emotional depth, world-building, and exploration of complex themes such as prejudice, family dynamics, and personal growth. Readers find themselves deeply invested in Raz's story, appreciating the unique perspective of a non-human protagonist and the depth of humanity portrayed throughout the narrative.

Characters:

Characters are richly developed, particularly Raz, who serves as a complex anti-hero, while other characters contribute meaningfully to the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is vivid and emotionally engaging, with dark fantasy elements that lend a sense of realism and brutality.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Raz, a lizard-like character facing struggles of identity and survival, intertwined with themes of prejudice and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting is a harsh desert world, supporting themes of struggle and survival while enhancing character development.

Pacing:

The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining reader engagement through a mix of gripping action and character development.
“They are beasts who, upon first encounter, have some semblances of the compassion we pride ourselves in as men and women. Do not be led astray. They are savages, barbarians, and if it is easier to ki...

Notes:

The main character, Raz, is a lizard-like species with wings and is captured by slavers as a child.
The story involves themes of family, prejudice, and acceptance.
Raz's character struggles with his identity as a non-human raised in a human family.
The book showcases a dark side of humanity, featuring brutal and morally grey characters.
There are criticisms of excessive filler and slow pacing at times, particularly regarding the female lead and historical letters.
The narrative includes emotional depth, exploring good and evil through character development.
Readers appreciated Raz's growth and multifaceted personality, making him relatable despite not being human.
The book is set against a backdrop of harsh realities, emphasizing survival and internal conflicts.
Some readers found the pacing well-balanced, engaging from start to finish, allowing for character development without dragging.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of violence, slavery, prejudice, and trauma.

From The Publisher:

Among the scattered fringe cities bordering the Cienbal desert, the true name of the Monster of Karth is spoken only in whispers... RAZ I'SYUL ARRO. A sellsword of the utmost caliber, Raz is a killer of paramount skill and highest regard. Towering tall even amongst the atherian, he is the only of his kind to live free in the "civilized" confines of mankind's varied cultures. He has no need of loyalties, his sole affections pledged to the gold crowns that buy his time and skills. Wed to his blades, Raz's only friends are the Moon and Her Stars and the shadows they bring with the night. But Raz was not born to the mercenary's way, to the butchery and battle of day-by-day survival. Raz, like a sword, was hammered from steel and fire and ashy smoke, forged on the ruins of an old life. And Raz knows who he owes this new path to, this carved way of blood and iron. The Monster of Karth, after all, would never forget who gave him that name. And some debts can't be paid in gold...

December 2015
282 pages

Ratings (2)

Incredible (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (12):

Read It (5)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (6)
 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.