Book Review: The Sleepless (Sleepless Duology, #1) by Amiee Rhu
When I first stumbled upon The Sleepless, it was the intriguing tagline that drew me in: “Made by a God, falling for a Monster.” I couldn’t resist the promise of mythological drama and romantic tension wrapped up in a young adult fantasy. After diving into this advanced copy, I can confidently say that author Amiee Rhu has crafted a tale that is not only captivating but also remarkably unique. This book took me on a wild journey, full of unexpected twists that left me utterly spellbound—seriously, I want to thrust this book into everyone’s hands!
The story revolves around three compelling characters: Elver, Artair, and Lucian, each offering a distinct and captivating perspective. I was particularly impressed by how seamlessly Rhu tailored their voices. Even without explicit chapter headings, I always felt anchored in whoever’s head I was in—Elver’s fierce independence, Artair’s noble heart, and Lucian’s tricky ambition all shone through brilliantly. This nuanced character development made the love triangle—albeit a complicated one—feel refreshingly authentic rather than contrived.
Elver’s journey is nothing short of transformative. Once sacrificed to appease the unforgiving sea serpents, she rises as a protector of the Jih creatures within the enchanted forest. I admired Elver’s sense of self-worth and her refusal to succumb to despair. Rather than wallowing, she confronts her circumstances head-on, proving to be a remarkable role model for anyone struggling with their identity. Her evolution inspires hope, particularly in a world often filled with prejudice and fear.
Then there’s Artair, who embodies the essence of nobility. His internal struggles, due to the malevolent spirit entwined within him, are profoundly relatable. I found myself rooting for his happiness as he navigates his fears and preconceived notions about good and evil. The joy and anxiety he experiences during his journey made my heart race. Will he finally embrace his worth and find freedom? I wish I could lean into the pages and lend him a hand!
Lucian is where things get interesting. Charming, ambitious, and morally ambiguous, he straddles the line between good and evil with an ease that’s tantalizing. He adds layers of complexity to the plot as he embodies the theme of ambition at all costs. While I found myself questioning his true motives, I also couldn’t help but admire his drive. It’s a careful balance, and watching him interact with Artair added a gripping dynamic to their relationship.
The worldbuilding in The Sleepless is nothing short of exquisite. With twelve gods, an array of magical creatures, and rich historical context, Rhu has created a universe that feels both expansive and intimate. The pacing of the plot kept me glued to the pages; twists and turns unfolded effortlessly, leaving me eager for what was to come. I was never bored!
Ultimately, The Sleepless is more than just a YA fantasy; it’s a thoughtful exploration of freedom and the ways in which it can be both liberating and confining. It invites readers to ponder what true freedom means and what sacrifices we might make for it. I wholeheartedly recommend this beautifully crafted book to anyone who enjoys enchanting tales filled with romance, moral ambiguity, and fantastical adventures.
If you’re a fan of intricate love triangles and rich, immersive worlds, grab a copy—especially the stunning signed Waterstones edition that’s still available. You won’t regret it! For me, this book became a compelling reminder of the power of stories to inspire hope and resilience. I can’t wait to see where Amiee Rhu takes us next in this enthralling duology!
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