Spin the Dawn

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The short of it? This book is worth reading and I am sooooo looking forward to the sequel.

Oh, would you like to know more than that?? Alright, let's see...
Toting this book as Project Runway meets Mulan had me confused at first, but after reading it I see what they meant. This book is about a girl who pretends to be her brother in order to save her family (Mulan) and do what she loves – which is being a tailor. What she doesn't realize is that the summons to be an imperial tailor is actual a competition for the job (Project Runway). This competition is only about half of the book though, with the rest of the book being an adventure to find needed materials to make three beautiful gowns. While the way I'm presenting this may make it seem like there is a disconnect between the first and second halves of the book, please believe me when I say there isn't. The way it is written with the princess giving the challenges makes everything flow and work together.
Speaking about writing, wow. If I had been able to read this in one sitting I would have. I spent hours at a time reading this and was almost late to work. Everything flows so, so well. I was hooked into the world and didn't want to let go. There is action, wonder, magic, romance, and that hint of something greater at play which all came together perfectly.
The characters were so likeable and fun. There is wonderful banter between Maia and Edan. I absolutely adored their interactions together. The growth of the romance was done at a smooth pace that I enjoyed.

I am so hyped to read the sequel because that ending has me left wondering what in the world will happen next! How will Maia get everything she deserves and wants in the world, because I really need her and Edan to be happy. I love them so much!

I recommend this one to fans of The Wrath and The Dawn and Mulan. If you like strong characters, fantasy, and great dialogue, then you should try this one out!