Ember of Night: A Riveting Dive into a Dark, Enigmatic World
When I first caught wind of Molly E. Lee’s Ember of Night, I was instantly drawn in by the promise of a story filled with fallen angels, demons, and the thrilling stakes of an impending apocalypse. I grew up in the heyday of YA fantasy, where such elements felt like home, and this book felt like a nostalgic return to those captivating worlds. I received this ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, and trust me when I say, this one does not disappoint!
At the center of the story is Harley—a fierce, resilient protagonist who counts down the days to her eighteenth birthday, dreaming of a life free from the abuse of her father, and dedicated to protecting her younger sister, Ray. The courage displayed by Harley as she endures daily torment for the sake of her sister warmed my heart while simultaneously carving a heaviness in my chest. The book doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, and readers should brace themselves for the emotional weight of Harley’s situation. Its portrayal of familial bonds and resilience is profoundly moving.
Enter Draven—the quintessential bad boy cloaked in mystery. With a broody demeanor and intriguing secrets, he captivated me from the very first encounter. The prologue brilliantly sets the stage, hinting at Draven’s otherworldly origins. As the plot unfolds, we discover that he is tasked with stopping the apocalypse and that Harley is pivotal in this cosmic showdown. Their dynamic is electric, layered with tension and an undeniable chemistry that mirrors the classic trope of ‘forbidden romance.’ There’s something so deliciously captivating about their banter that had me rooting for them while also holding my breath in anticipation.
Molly E. Lee’s writing is impactful yet accessible, striking a balance between high-stakes action and poignant familial love. The pacing is spot on—every chapter left me wanting more, as I raced against time alongside Harley through her countdown to freedom and survival. Ember of Night effortlessly weaves thrilling moments in with heartwarming instances between Harley and Ray, enriching the narrative with genuine emotion. The exploration of themes like bravery, sacrifice, and love wrapped me in a comforting yet exhilarating embrace, pulling me deeper into Harley’s world.
One thing I particularly appreciated was how Lee handles the themes of heaven and hell without delving too heavily into a religious exposition. The focus remains on the characters and their journeys, which makes for an engaging read without feeling dogmatic. I found myself reflecting on the deeper implications of light and darkness as the story progressed, making me appreciate the layers Lee crafted throughout the narrative.
By the time I reached the cliffhanger conclusion, my heart was racing, and I was left breathlessly craving more. I was shocked by the final twists, anxiously wondering what was to come next. (Seriously, one word: game-changer!)
In conclusion, if you’re hungry for a tale filled with angels, demons, and captivating character dynamics, Ember of Night is a must-read. It’s perfect for fans of YA fantasy looking for stories that challenge them emotionally while providing thrilling escapism. I found my heart racing and my eyes glued to the pages, and I believe you will too. With a sequel on the horizon, I’m eagerly counting down the days until I can dive back into this mesmerizing world!
Rating: 5/5 stars
Release Date: May 4, 2021
Add this gem to your TBR—we’re all in for an unforgettable ride!
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