Reviewed by C. Breitbach, October 2024
Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim is the first book in the fantasy duology The Blood of Stars. Maia Tamarin works as a seamstress in her father’s shop, hoping to become the greatest tailor in the land. So when a royal messenger sends for her unwell father to become the court tailor, she immediately takes his place and pretends to be her brother. She doesn’t know that when she arrives at the castle, there will be competition unlike she’s ever known and danger unlike she’s ever experienced. Not to mention the Court Enchanter, Edan, who sees right through her clever disguise. I’d recommend this novel to ages 14+. There are some mentions or depictions of violence, death, and war throughout the novel. Readers who enjoyed Six Crimson Cranes or Reflection by Elizabeth Lim likely will enjoy this novel as well.