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Dawnsong
Light creates shadows, better to die in the dark.
Once, Lilias Khove was someone else, a dancer revered and applauded. Now, she guards a city.
Once, Prevecost was something other, a city strong and renowned throughout the world. Now plague stalks her streets and steals her citizens.
But the city has secrets and so does the dancer.
In a time as dark and silent as the death it fears, these secrets will save or they will damn.
Dawnsong is a prequel novelette and contains four original character illustrations by acclaimed artist Irina Plachkova
Once, Lilias Khove was someone else, a dancer revered and applauded. Now, she guards a city.
Once, Prevecost was something other, a city strong and renowned throughout the world. Now plague stalks her streets and steals her citizens.
But the city has secrets and so does the dancer.
In a time as dark and silent as the death it fears, these secrets will save or they will damn.
Dawnsong is a prequel novelette and contains four original character illustrations by acclaimed artist Irina Plachkova
52 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
About the author
Bryn Shutt
3 books161 followersBryn Shutt was born with books in her blood. Her favorite stories, both to read and write, are fantastical epics piled high with action, mystery, non-spicy romance, and comedy (dark, light, it doesn't matter).
Bryn currently lives with her husband and animal kingdom in the Blue Ridge Mountains where she juggles a day job (nonfiction publishing), the writerly nightlife, and an intense study to become fluent in K-dramas (that counts as bilingual, right?).
Bryn currently lives with her husband and animal kingdom in the Blue Ridge Mountains where she juggles a day job (nonfiction publishing), the writerly nightlife, and an intense study to become fluent in K-dramas (that counts as bilingual, right?).
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January 2, 2021My mini book baby is now available! Perfect for all those lovers of adventure, a little dash of wit, a smidge of slow burn, and a message of hope in the darkness and the promise that no matter how dark the night, the dawn still comes.
June 24, 2023
This was brilliant! A captivating little precursor of things to come! I loved the characters, the style, the world—eeeek—can’t wait for more! 🙌
December 23, 2020
Yes, my brilliant writing partner has finally released a story. A short story but packed with all that wit, philosophy, humor, heart, and knowledge that I treasure her for.
Don't miss this delicious and satisfying short story that will one day open into a much larger world! (Of which I am very fond.)
Don't miss this delicious and satisfying short story that will one day open into a much larger world! (Of which I am very fond.)
June 28, 2021
I enjoyed this intriguing, thoughtful, fascinating novella by Bryn Shutt. Dawnsong follows two complex main characters with very different personalities and walks of life. A chance meeting changes both of them and begins a tentative friendship--but it also causes friction. I can’t wait to see what happens with this dynamic relationship.
I really enjoyed seeing Desmond and Lilias grow throughout the book. I loved both of them from the time I met them. I was especially endeared to Des when he was introduced partway through the book. He’s just the sort of male character I like best, and I admire his character.
I loved seeing how Des freely sacrifices his comfort and everything else to help others. And it was lovely to see Lilias growing in compassion, empathy, and sacrifice, starting with an encounter at the beginning of the book. It was very sweet to see both of them helping a young character who needed it--at first separately, and then working as a team.
Dawnsong takes place in a unique, fascinating fantasy world. It drew me in and brought the setting to life--gritty, grim, yet with glimmers of light and beauty and hope. It was different than any fantasy I’ve read before, and I can’t wait to read more. I’m invested in the characters and politics, and I’m pleased that this is an introductory prequel, with more on the way.
The writing of this novella is excellent, and I enjoyed it so much. The descriptions and metaphors are brilliant and eye-opening, and they made me see the characters’ world and our world in a new light. I appreciate Bryn Shutt’s deep and thoughtful writing. She and her characters have such wisdom and insight--often serious, wryly witty, or both. I also enjoyed the beautiful, truthful, hopeful, yet subtle themes and messages.
I became very invested in the story, characters, and friendships as I read, and many moments and scenes tugged at my heart, made me laugh, or, in the case of one twist, made me react in surprise.
I’m so glad a friend recommended Dawnsong to me. It was well worth the read, and I’m glad I bought a copy. I’m now a fan of Bryn Shutt and her writing, and I enjoy following her on Instagram, where she shares more about her characters and world. I can’t wait to see what else she comes up with and to read her future publications.
I recommend Dawnsong to anyone who enjoys interesting fantasy with great worldbuilding, thoughtful themes, complex characters, and fascinating relationships.
Four full stars.
A note for interested readers:
The world of Dawnsong includes some subtle fantasy elements, including special powers used by the main characters. It was only mentioned once or twice in Dawnsong, but the sequels will have more of these supernatural abilities. There is no magic in this book, but there is one mention of something like telepathy that involves dreams. Some readers may also appreciate knowing that the religion in this book’s fantasy world is Christian religion, not another religion.
I really enjoyed seeing Desmond and Lilias grow throughout the book. I loved both of them from the time I met them. I was especially endeared to Des when he was introduced partway through the book. He’s just the sort of male character I like best, and I admire his character.
I loved seeing how Des freely sacrifices his comfort and everything else to help others. And it was lovely to see Lilias growing in compassion, empathy, and sacrifice, starting with an encounter at the beginning of the book. It was very sweet to see both of them helping a young character who needed it--at first separately, and then working as a team.
Dawnsong takes place in a unique, fascinating fantasy world. It drew me in and brought the setting to life--gritty, grim, yet with glimmers of light and beauty and hope. It was different than any fantasy I’ve read before, and I can’t wait to read more. I’m invested in the characters and politics, and I’m pleased that this is an introductory prequel, with more on the way.
The writing of this novella is excellent, and I enjoyed it so much. The descriptions and metaphors are brilliant and eye-opening, and they made me see the characters’ world and our world in a new light. I appreciate Bryn Shutt’s deep and thoughtful writing. She and her characters have such wisdom and insight--often serious, wryly witty, or both. I also enjoyed the beautiful, truthful, hopeful, yet subtle themes and messages.
I became very invested in the story, characters, and friendships as I read, and many moments and scenes tugged at my heart, made me laugh, or, in the case of one twist, made me react in surprise.
I’m so glad a friend recommended Dawnsong to me. It was well worth the read, and I’m glad I bought a copy. I’m now a fan of Bryn Shutt and her writing, and I enjoy following her on Instagram, where she shares more about her characters and world. I can’t wait to see what else she comes up with and to read her future publications.
I recommend Dawnsong to anyone who enjoys interesting fantasy with great worldbuilding, thoughtful themes, complex characters, and fascinating relationships.
Four full stars.
A note for interested readers:
The world of Dawnsong includes some subtle fantasy elements, including special powers used by the main characters. It was only mentioned once or twice in Dawnsong, but the sequels will have more of these supernatural abilities. There is no magic in this book, but there is one mention of something like telepathy that involves dreams. Some readers may also appreciate knowing that the religion in this book’s fantasy world is Christian religion, not another religion.
November 7, 2021
Can I interest you in a healthy dose of cinnamon rolls, tantalizing and luscious worldbuilding, gorgeous descriptions, and ominous, eerie prophecies? Not to mention, allllll the ships?
I can see I’ve piqued your interest. Then READ THIS BOOK. Then come and squee with me over the characters. I love them all… especially Artair. But I’m sure he already knows. ;-)
I can see I’ve piqued your interest. Then READ THIS BOOK. Then come and squee with me over the characters. I love them all… especially Artair. But I’m sure he already knows. ;-)
September 13, 2023
FIRST REREAD SEPTEMBER 2023, 5/5
I love this and these characters and this whole world so much more after reading Illuminare.
ORIGINAL REVIEW (first read August 2021, 4/5)
Dawnsong is a heartfelt novelette with beautiful, lyrical writing and vibrant description. The glimpses of a society built around humanities was fascinating, and I’d absolutely read more stories set in this world.
Lilias and Desmond were both three-dimensional characters, and despite this being a short work, I felt like I knew them after only a short time. (When more books in this world release, I definitely hope that Lilias, Desmond, Artair, Alston, and the others are at least some of the starring characters!)
Several sentences in this story are long and winding, so some get a little confusing. However, there’s virtually nothing to dislike about this novelette. I absolutely loved it, and I definitely plan to read more from this author!
🗡️ content: b***tard used in its correct form, references to inebriation, mild violence and non-graphic descriptions of injuries, veiled references to prostitution 🗡️
I love this and these characters and this whole world so much more after reading Illuminare.
ORIGINAL REVIEW (first read August 2021, 4/5)
Dawnsong is a heartfelt novelette with beautiful, lyrical writing and vibrant description. The glimpses of a society built around humanities was fascinating, and I’d absolutely read more stories set in this world.
Lilias and Desmond were both three-dimensional characters, and despite this being a short work, I felt like I knew them after only a short time. (When more books in this world release, I definitely hope that Lilias, Desmond, Artair, Alston, and the others are at least some of the starring characters!)
Several sentences in this story are long and winding, so some get a little confusing. However, there’s virtually nothing to dislike about this novelette. I absolutely loved it, and I definitely plan to read more from this author!
🗡️ content: b***tard used in its correct form, references to inebriation, mild violence and non-graphic descriptions of injuries, veiled references to prostitution 🗡️
April 24, 2023
Can I learn how to write words and stories like this when I grow up please? :) <3
This book is beautiful and heartstirring, full of intertwining sorrow and hope and joy and love. I loved each of the characters so much, and there was so much there, in the story, in the world, in the characters lives, even though the story is quite small.
This story is lovely through and through, and I recommend it to anyone and everyone who wants their hearts to hear an echo of all things good and lovely and bright, in the darkness of a lonely night or a sunless day.
This story brought me joy. I hope you check it out and find that joy too. :)
This book is beautiful and heartstirring, full of intertwining sorrow and hope and joy and love. I loved each of the characters so much, and there was so much there, in the story, in the world, in the characters lives, even though the story is quite small.
This story is lovely through and through, and I recommend it to anyone and everyone who wants their hearts to hear an echo of all things good and lovely and bright, in the darkness of a lonely night or a sunless day.
This story brought me joy. I hope you check it out and find that joy too. :)
March 4, 2021
I won an ebook copy of this in a giveaway from the author, and I'm so glad I had time to go ahead and read it (I'm notoriously slow at reading ebooks since my only ereader is my phone.) because it was excellent! Despite the short format, the characters and setting are very rich. The author is great at communicating their histories in a way that flows naturally with the story. I quickly fell in love with Lilias, Desmond, and the others and am looking forward to more stories with them.
November 29, 2021
I'm not usually one to read short stories, I like longer books, more time with characters. But I kept seeing art for this short story, and hearing about both it and the book it is the prequel of and I was indesputibly drawn to it.
And then the cover got revealed and I was gonner, because I mean really JUST LOOK at that.
For such a short story, it had a lot of substance, and I enjoyed the bits and pieces I saw of the characters. I can't WAIT for more of their world.
I received a copy of this book from the author, all opinions, however, are my own.
And then the cover got revealed and I was gonner, because I mean really JUST LOOK at that.
For such a short story, it had a lot of substance, and I enjoyed the bits and pieces I saw of the characters. I can't WAIT for more of their world.
I received a copy of this book from the author, all opinions, however, are my own.
September 13, 2021
A poignant and delightfully eerie short story featuring strong themes of Truth and intriguing characters unfolding in a richly detailed setting. The only bad part is waiting for the next installment, because my appetite is whetted, and I am anxious to dive deeper into a story world that is clearly brimming with beauty and complexity.
Definitely looking forward to more from this author!
Definitely looking forward to more from this author!
December 23, 2020
This story! I loved every word! I laughed and cried at so many parts! Desmond, Lilias, Artair, and the rest of the gang brings me so much joy! Am I counting down the days until Brynn releases a full length novel? Yes, yes I am! ❤️
Brava, my friend! Brava!
Brava, my friend! Brava!
December 23, 2020
5/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lilias was once a renowned dancer. Now she's just a guard in a city haunted by a plague. However, the city has other issues, dark secrets that most turn a blind eye to. Lilias doesn't want to ignore those in need, but she doesn't want to get attached either.
This short story is a captivating opening to a brilliant world, full of spectacular characters and enchanting places! Though brief, Dawnsong introduces the reader to a magnificent story. Lilias seems very interesting, but there is a lot still unknown about her. Her kindness and determination are demonstrated in these pages, and I hope to hear more of her story later! Desmond and Artair are so amusing, though they are not mentioned much in this short story! The characters aren't the only impressive thing about this book. Bryn is a very talented writer! I love her writing style so much!
This short story is definitely worth a read. These characters have a story to tell, and this is only the beginning! This is a clean adult fantasy that I highly recommend!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lilias was once a renowned dancer. Now she's just a guard in a city haunted by a plague. However, the city has other issues, dark secrets that most turn a blind eye to. Lilias doesn't want to ignore those in need, but she doesn't want to get attached either.
This short story is a captivating opening to a brilliant world, full of spectacular characters and enchanting places! Though brief, Dawnsong introduces the reader to a magnificent story. Lilias seems very interesting, but there is a lot still unknown about her. Her kindness and determination are demonstrated in these pages, and I hope to hear more of her story later! Desmond and Artair are so amusing, though they are not mentioned much in this short story! The characters aren't the only impressive thing about this book. Bryn is a very talented writer! I love her writing style so much!
This short story is definitely worth a read. These characters have a story to tell, and this is only the beginning! This is a clean adult fantasy that I highly recommend!
August 22, 2021
That was so cool! I can't wait to read more!
December 5, 2021
Bryn Shutt is promising some great things with this debut. The world, the characters, the set up... all of it could turn into something amazing... and I can't wait to read more! I think my favourite thing about this was the characters. They were so well-rounded and the dialogue between them all flowed so well. The world was not introduced as much since this was short, but what I saw seemed really cool. It's just such a sweet story that I want to continue reading more of.
July 24, 2021
I ended up picking up “Dawnsong” on the spur of the moment and fell in love with it. GAH!!! It was one of those books that the words flowed right off the page and introduced us into a world that is both enchanting and heartbreaking.
The Worldbuilding:
The words seemed to hop right off the page painting the busy city streets, the docks, and the cramped buildings for me to walk around. It had a grim, dark feel with a hint of beauty. I was pleasantly surprised how well the book displayed beautiful descriptions of the city while only being around 45 pages long.
The book reminds me of this really cool story my Mom read to my brother and I for school called Father to Nobody's Children which is a true story based on the life of Thomas J. Barnardo who helped over 60,000 children. When the Jays were introduced in “Dawnsong” with Lilias wanting to help them kind of reminds me of what Thomas did.
I also noticed that there seems to be a little bit of a magical element in the story. I was a little disappointed that it wasn’t shown more, but I absolutely love that this might be something that will be explored in a later book.
I really enjoyed the theme about actually seeing rather than just looking. It was brought out really well. And it is so true. So many times we might see something, but do we really see?
The Characters
Lilias. I love her journey through this book and how she wanted to help the Jays, the children who needed her. I love how she forms a relationship with the little girl. Lilias’s personality is great. She’s outspoken and sometimes gets into awkward situations because of it. And I really like how she likes dancing. Though I wish the book explained what kind of dancing she did because I need to know! I love this character and I want to see her in another book. Pretty please?
Desmond. Okay, the way he deals with Lilias’s moments is great. I love his gentleness and the way he cares for people even when it is not always comfortable for him to do so. I love his relationship with his squire. Also, I want to see more of him and Artair, they seem to have an interesting relationship that I want to see explored more. Also, I want to see Lilias and Desmond together more. =)
The Drawings
In this book are several drawings done by very talented artists.
First of all, THAT COVER!!! It is drawn by Hannah Rogers and it is so pretty! GAH, I LOVE IT!!!
And there are several interior drawings by Irina Plachkova (aka Phantom Rin) that just wows me. THEY ARE SO PRETTY!!!!
Content in Book:
1. Mentions of a plague.
2. A brief mention of magic.
3. Thievery.
4. Burns. (Though I don’t think it was too gory.)
Overall this book was very clean.
Who I Would Recommend This Book Too:
Those who want a short, quick read with fantastic worldbuilding, with loveable characters, and a powerful theme, set in a grim but beautiful fantasy world.
AHHH I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!!! “Dawnsong” is a part of the “Time of the Immortals” world which is just fantastic. Looking at Bryn’s blog, the “Time of the Immortals” is a literary concept consisting of twelve books spanning twenty-two hundred years of Eorne history. And a few really cool novellas. I mean take a look at her blog, there Bryn has a few shorts that give you a little look into this world. I just think that it is so cool! I really, really want to read a full-length novel by this author. She’s extremely talented at bringing her words alive. Her books have my attention and I want more.
The Worldbuilding:
The words seemed to hop right off the page painting the busy city streets, the docks, and the cramped buildings for me to walk around. It had a grim, dark feel with a hint of beauty. I was pleasantly surprised how well the book displayed beautiful descriptions of the city while only being around 45 pages long.
The book reminds me of this really cool story my Mom read to my brother and I for school called Father to Nobody's Children which is a true story based on the life of Thomas J. Barnardo who helped over 60,000 children. When the Jays were introduced in “Dawnsong” with Lilias wanting to help them kind of reminds me of what Thomas did.
I also noticed that there seems to be a little bit of a magical element in the story. I was a little disappointed that it wasn’t shown more, but I absolutely love that this might be something that will be explored in a later book.
I really enjoyed the theme about actually seeing rather than just looking. It was brought out really well. And it is so true. So many times we might see something, but do we really see?
The Characters
Lilias. I love her journey through this book and how she wanted to help the Jays, the children who needed her. I love how she forms a relationship with the little girl. Lilias’s personality is great. She’s outspoken and sometimes gets into awkward situations because of it. And I really like how she likes dancing. Though I wish the book explained what kind of dancing she did because I need to know! I love this character and I want to see her in another book. Pretty please?
Desmond. Okay, the way he deals with Lilias’s moments is great. I love his gentleness and the way he cares for people even when it is not always comfortable for him to do so. I love his relationship with his squire. Also, I want to see more of him and Artair, they seem to have an interesting relationship that I want to see explored more. Also, I want to see Lilias and Desmond together more. =)
The Drawings
In this book are several drawings done by very talented artists.
First of all, THAT COVER!!! It is drawn by Hannah Rogers and it is so pretty! GAH, I LOVE IT!!!
And there are several interior drawings by Irina Plachkova (aka Phantom Rin) that just wows me. THEY ARE SO PRETTY!!!!
Content in Book:
1. Mentions of a plague.
2. A brief mention of magic.
3. Thievery.
4. Burns. (Though I don’t think it was too gory.)
Overall this book was very clean.
Who I Would Recommend This Book Too:
Those who want a short, quick read with fantastic worldbuilding, with loveable characters, and a powerful theme, set in a grim but beautiful fantasy world.
AHHH I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!!! “Dawnsong” is a part of the “Time of the Immortals” world which is just fantastic. Looking at Bryn’s blog, the “Time of the Immortals” is a literary concept consisting of twelve books spanning twenty-two hundred years of Eorne history. And a few really cool novellas. I mean take a look at her blog, there Bryn has a few shorts that give you a little look into this world. I just think that it is so cool! I really, really want to read a full-length novel by this author. She’s extremely talented at bringing her words alive. Her books have my attention and I want more.
January 8, 2021
Beyond Words
This novella is packed with all the punch and hard drive needed in a novel. It delivered its message seamlessly (although adding a bit of Bryn flair never hurts). The characters are raw and tangible yet just out of reach in their own realm of mystery. The perfect combination of fantasy and reality.
Every scene left me aching for more time in the world and with the people.
It begs deep questions of the reader and illusivly answers them. While still managing to make us ask it of ourselves.
How do we learn to really live in world of death and shadows?
This novella is packed with all the punch and hard drive needed in a novel. It delivered its message seamlessly (although adding a bit of Bryn flair never hurts). The characters are raw and tangible yet just out of reach in their own realm of mystery. The perfect combination of fantasy and reality.
Every scene left me aching for more time in the world and with the people.
It begs deep questions of the reader and illusivly answers them. While still managing to make us ask it of ourselves.
How do we learn to really live in world of death and shadows?
December 23, 2020
Enchanting. Heartwarming. Original.
There's nothing else on the market like this incredible novelette about a dancer turned guard and a battle to *live* and not mearly survive. From the very first sentence, I was enthralled. Lilias is a relatable, sympathetic, beautifully crafted character with spunk, compassion, and an internal struggle i think we can all relate to. Des is another character all together who holds his pride to his heart and has never let trials weigh down life's potential.
Although only a short prequel to the masterpiece to come, it's imperative to read DAWNSONG before digging into the following novels in this series by Bryn. Bryn's masterfully crafted voice is unique, this world is eyecatching, and the plot will keep your heart aching, and chest heaving with laughter. I definitely give this novelette 5 stars!
There's nothing else on the market like this incredible novelette about a dancer turned guard and a battle to *live* and not mearly survive. From the very first sentence, I was enthralled. Lilias is a relatable, sympathetic, beautifully crafted character with spunk, compassion, and an internal struggle i think we can all relate to. Des is another character all together who holds his pride to his heart and has never let trials weigh down life's potential.
Although only a short prequel to the masterpiece to come, it's imperative to read DAWNSONG before digging into the following novels in this series by Bryn. Bryn's masterfully crafted voice is unique, this world is eyecatching, and the plot will keep your heart aching, and chest heaving with laughter. I definitely give this novelette 5 stars!
January 7, 2021
This was such a lovely short story/novelette, and I highly recommend it for all fans of clean adult fantasy. The characters are life-like, the plot engaging, and the story-world immersive. Shutt introduces us to her characters and world in a short and poignant story that revolves around a young woman's response to the plague that's destroying her land. Profound, vivid, & heartwarming, Dawnsong is a beautifully woven tale that challenges our ideas of what it means to truly live and love.
November 5, 2022
Beautiful and Intriguing Prose
4.5 Stars ✨
“It’s like dawn, I suppose. The night is black as pitch, but little by little the light comes. Step by step. That’s what living is. A little thing here and a little thing there, and before you know it, you’ve got a sunrise. You can’t save the world. No one was ever asked to. That was the Almighty’s job, and look how many people rejected that.”
What an introduction to what I’m sure is going to be an amazing world. For only being a Novella, I was so impressed with its sharp intricate pose. It was also such a lovely surprise to be flipping to the next chapter and come across beautiful illustrations along the way. I wish more authors would do this- I am not too old for pictures in my stories! This enhanced my reading experience so much.
I loved this authors writing style, she teleports you right into the story and makes everything come alive. Even though Dawnsong is a very short story - it leaves you hanging, but desperately craving more. Full of shadows, secrets and messages in between, I can not wait to learn more about Prevecost. With only a glimpse into this world, I can tell I am already drawn in and connected to these characters. Wishwalkers *GASP* I need more ASAP!
4.5 Stars ✨
“It’s like dawn, I suppose. The night is black as pitch, but little by little the light comes. Step by step. That’s what living is. A little thing here and a little thing there, and before you know it, you’ve got a sunrise. You can’t save the world. No one was ever asked to. That was the Almighty’s job, and look how many people rejected that.”
What an introduction to what I’m sure is going to be an amazing world. For only being a Novella, I was so impressed with its sharp intricate pose. It was also such a lovely surprise to be flipping to the next chapter and come across beautiful illustrations along the way. I wish more authors would do this- I am not too old for pictures in my stories! This enhanced my reading experience so much.
I loved this authors writing style, she teleports you right into the story and makes everything come alive. Even though Dawnsong is a very short story - it leaves you hanging, but desperately craving more. Full of shadows, secrets and messages in between, I can not wait to learn more about Prevecost. With only a glimpse into this world, I can tell I am already drawn in and connected to these characters. Wishwalkers *GASP* I need more ASAP!
January 5, 2022
I saw this around IG and picked it up, mostly because I was intrigued by the cover and looking for something shorter to read.
I can barely believe this a debut. The cover, the character art inside (more authors do this, please 😍), and the quality of descriptions and fresh metaphors were delightful.
I especially enjoyed the world building. It felt well-fleshed out and the fantasy place names were creative but pronounceable. 👏👏
The theme was great and quite timely too, but I wished it was more tied to a tighter plot. It almost felt as if this story wanted to be longer.
Best quotes: “Yes,” he went on as if reading her thoughts—and ignoring some of them.
He looked so weary, the kind that doesn’t start but is always just there, only now and then rising enough to the surface to be seen. It’s been a long night for him.
CW: fake swears and one use of b*st**d, mentions of plague, a fire, and burns.
Looking forward to this author's next work!
I can barely believe this a debut. The cover, the character art inside (more authors do this, please 😍), and the quality of descriptions and fresh metaphors were delightful.
I especially enjoyed the world building. It felt well-fleshed out and the fantasy place names were creative but pronounceable. 👏👏
The theme was great and quite timely too, but I wished it was more tied to a tighter plot. It almost felt as if this story wanted to be longer.
Best quotes: “Yes,” he went on as if reading her thoughts—and ignoring some of them.
He looked so weary, the kind that doesn’t start but is always just there, only now and then rising enough to the surface to be seen. It’s been a long night for him.
CW: fake swears and one use of b*st**d, mentions of plague, a fire, and burns.
Looking forward to this author's next work!
March 8, 2022
This story was a delight. The story world was richly developed and presented in an immersive manner, the characters lifelike, and the message touching. Overall a very enjoyable read. I was pleased to get through it in only a couple days, fitting it into my busy schedule. Short fiction has really grown on me, and this was an excellent addition to my growing library of novellas and anthologies!
August 30, 2022
What an excellent story!! I am soundly in love with the characters, and the setting intrigues me! I can't wait for the next installment in the delicious world!
October 28, 2021
“Why are we so afraid of dying when we’ve never even tried to live?”
An accurate question, no?
Dawnsong by Brynn Shutt has so much going for it. It’s a peek into a vivid, realistic (and consequently somewhat hard-edged) world, with problems that span nations, cities, and individuals alike. It’s a breathtaking introduction to two characters that are so well-envisioned that I feel like I’ve known them for years. It’s filled with reflection on heavy topics, but equally filled with humor of the sort that makes it dangerous to be drinking anything while reading. (My kindle screen will recover. My dignity, possibly never.)
Ah, but then you reach the core. Both characters in Dawnsong are struggling with this idea of what it means to truly live. Lilias has only known the life of a performer—a dancer—and while the transition to guarding a city is smooth on the surface, you can tell she still mourns her old life. Desmond has already been knocked back by life a number of times over, but still maintains a steely grip on something often lacking in fantasy and real life alike— kindness.
Kindness, which bluntly speaking, can translate at times to unselfishness: Trusting God with your own life, safety, and well-being, and taking the strength he gives you to elevate and protect others. It’s easy to talk about, but so, so different to live out.
This short, beautiful read is well worth the hour or so it’ll take to read, and it’ll leave you encouraged and feeling like you’ve gotten a glimpse of what it means to live life well.
An accurate question, no?
Dawnsong by Brynn Shutt has so much going for it. It’s a peek into a vivid, realistic (and consequently somewhat hard-edged) world, with problems that span nations, cities, and individuals alike. It’s a breathtaking introduction to two characters that are so well-envisioned that I feel like I’ve known them for years. It’s filled with reflection on heavy topics, but equally filled with humor of the sort that makes it dangerous to be drinking anything while reading. (My kindle screen will recover. My dignity, possibly never.)
Ah, but then you reach the core. Both characters in Dawnsong are struggling with this idea of what it means to truly live. Lilias has only known the life of a performer—a dancer—and while the transition to guarding a city is smooth on the surface, you can tell she still mourns her old life. Desmond has already been knocked back by life a number of times over, but still maintains a steely grip on something often lacking in fantasy and real life alike— kindness.
Kindness, which bluntly speaking, can translate at times to unselfishness: Trusting God with your own life, safety, and well-being, and taking the strength he gives you to elevate and protect others. It’s easy to talk about, but so, so different to live out.
This short, beautiful read is well worth the hour or so it’ll take to read, and it’ll leave you encouraged and feeling like you’ve gotten a glimpse of what it means to live life well.
December 23, 2020
Lyrical writing, amazing characters, funny moments, relatable struggles, a vivid setting I just want to melt into, and a story that touched my heart in all the best ways. And all in a novelette of just 15,000 words! Definitely one of my favorite short reads of the year. 💚
(I was a copyeditor for this delightful tale. But, like, as an unbiased reader, it's fabulous, okay?)
(I was a copyeditor for this delightful tale. But, like, as an unbiased reader, it's fabulous, okay?)
October 29, 2021
I actually had the privilege of giving feedback on an excerpt from this author's writing before I read this book, so I got a taste of her style beforehand. (Which technically feels like cheating, but whatever.)
Bryn's prose is to die for. I honestly lamented so often that no one wrote in the style of my favorite authors, only to see that same beautiful language used among indie authors and Bryn's work is proof of this. I want to cry at its beauty. So much of it deserves to be turned into physical art. Plus, the world-building in this brief story is very vivid and I could picture things well. I loved the characters presented and am eagerly looking forward to learning more about them in future stories.
While this could have done with a bit of tighter editing, I absolutely love this and am very excited for more!!!
Bryn's prose is to die for. I honestly lamented so often that no one wrote in the style of my favorite authors, only to see that same beautiful language used among indie authors and Bryn's work is proof of this. I want to cry at its beauty. So much of it deserves to be turned into physical art. Plus, the world-building in this brief story is very vivid and I could picture things well. I loved the characters presented and am eagerly looking forward to learning more about them in future stories.
While this could have done with a bit of tighter editing, I absolutely love this and am very excited for more!!!
January 6, 2021
What a great story to end the year on. I had the privilege of reading this early and let me tell you, it was absolutely beautiful. Bryn is an amazing storyteller with her rich world building and memorable characters. In this story, we’re introduced to Lilias, Desmond, and a number of other characters, each standing out with a unique voice, even if they only made a brief appearance. But what I loved most were the themes of living and loving that Bryn wove in to the tale. All in all, Dawnsong is a sweet novella full of heart and humor, that makes me long for more of Prevecost.
March 21, 2021
Umm excuse me, Bryn, this is not okay. I need to read the rest of this story!!! 😩 The little teaser you gave us in this book is making me want a whole novel (or series 😉).
I loved everything about this short prequel. I already am in love with the characters and I've hardly met them! 😍💙 Seriously, I cannot wait for the whatever Bryn has for us next!!! 😍😍
I loved everything about this short prequel. I already am in love with the characters and I've hardly met them! 😍💙 Seriously, I cannot wait for the whatever Bryn has for us next!!! 😍😍
July 25, 2022
Dawnsong is a wonderful novelette that follows guard Lilias and her proper introduction to the new guard captain, Captain Desmond Edenry, after her care of a group of orphaned children captures the new captain's attention. The themes within this novelette are wonderful, the prose is absolutely breath-taking, and I cannot wait to dive into more of Bryn's works.
January 18, 2023
I really enjoyed Dawnsong and am ready to read more from this author! The characters were interesting, and the worldbuilding intrigued me—but I feel like I barely got a taste of it, nothing solid enough to sink my teeth into. (That...looks weirder in writing than it sounded in my head. 🙃)
There were a few illustrations, which made me super excited! Why is it so rare to find illustrations in anything other than children's books?
Really, my only complaint is that it seemed like an incomplete story. I know it was meant to be short, but it didn't have as much resolution as I was hoping. Good thing there's already another book in the series!
There were a few illustrations, which made me super excited! Why is it so rare to find illustrations in anything other than children's books?
Really, my only complaint is that it seemed like an incomplete story. I know it was meant to be short, but it didn't have as much resolution as I was hoping. Good thing there's already another book in the series!
March 15, 2021
Heartfelt little story
I admit I was hesitant to read this, because I can find short stories unsatisfying. (Says the person who has written some, heh.) I also was in a horrible reading slump when it released and knee I wouldn't give it a fair shake when my mood was so grey. I'm pleased to say this was a delightful, heartfelt story that tugged at my heartstrings a little--and made me snort a couple times. Definitely a fascinating (formal) introduction to this world and these characters.
I admit I was hesitant to read this, because I can find short stories unsatisfying. (Says the person who has written some, heh.) I also was in a horrible reading slump when it released and knee I wouldn't give it a fair shake when my mood was so grey. I'm pleased to say this was a delightful, heartfelt story that tugged at my heartstrings a little--and made me snort a couple times. Definitely a fascinating (formal) introduction to this world and these characters.
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