A teen girl must bring together two broken worlds in order to save her nation in this lush, Filipino-inspired young adult fantasy novel from debut author Elisa A. Bonnin.
“Be dauntless, for the hopes of the People rest in you.”
Seri’s world is defined by very clear rules: The beasts prowl the forest paths and hunt the People. The valiant explore the unknown world, kill the beasts, and gain strength from the armor they make from them. As an assistant to Eshai Unbroken, a young valor commander with a near-mythical reputation, Seri has seen first-hand the struggle to keep the beasts at bay and ensure the safety of the spreading trees where the People make their homes. That was how it always had been, and how it always would be. Until the day Seri encounters Tsana.
Tsana is, impossibly, a stranger from the unknown world who can communicate with the beasts – a fact that makes Seri begin to doubt everything she’s ever been taught. As Seri and Tsana grow closer, their worlds begin to collide, with deadly consequences. Somehow, with the world on the brink of war, Seri will have to find a way to make peace.
“Dauntless captures the best parts of every action-packed fantasy—breathtaking scenes of power and victory that push the limits of human tenacity. This is a triumphant tale of courage and self discovery that will make you believe in your own strength.” —Kyllie Lee Baker, author of The Keeper of Night
Title: Dauntless
Author: Elisa A. Bonnin
Publication Date: August 2, 2022
Publisher: Swoon Reads
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, LGBTQIA+
This book was an action-packed adventure that I hoped would never end.
I love stand-alone fantasies and this stoked my love even more. The action was heart-pounding and well-paced so I was invested the entire book. The romance was present enough to grab me, but not overwhelming. It didn’t distract or take away from the true plot and action of the book. As well, the fantastical elements of the book were interesting. It was easy enough to learn this new world and all that it had to give, but still held enough mysteries to hope we’ll get to return to it one day.
The representation alone in this was fabulous. There are LGBTQIA+ characters represented including the protagonist who’s lesbian and her love interest who’s bisexual (sapphic romance). As well, Southeast Asians, specifically Filipinos, are represented.
Overall, I was happy with this book! I always want more fantasy standalone novels so I’m happy to add this book to my rotation.
Rating
Elisa A. Bonnin was born and raised in the Philippines, after which she moved to the United States to study chemistry and later oceanography. After completing her doctorate, she moved to Germany to work as a postdoctoral scientist. A lifelong learner, Elisa is always convinced that she should “maybe take a class in something” and as a result, has amassed an eclectic collection of hobbies. But writing will always be her true love. Publishing a book has been her dream since she was eight years old, and she is thrilled to finally be able to share her stories. Dauntless is her first novel.
Tour-wide giveaway (US only) – ends Aug 11th
- Paperback copy of Dauntless
Your review has convinced me I will enjoy reading this book–I also enjoy stand alone fantasy books with great characters and pacing.
It was a really good read!