Books in the series Guardians of Dawn

Zhara is a breathtaking epic fantasy that transports readers to a world where magic is both a gift and a curse. Jin Zhara has spent her life hiding her magical abilities, burdened by the weight of her family's expectations and the strict laws of her land. However, her quiet life is shattered when she encounters the Guardians of Dawn, a secret group of warriors dedicated to stopping a terrifying demonic plague that is turning magicians into monsters. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for readers who love stories about hidden powers, secret societies, and the courage it takes to defy tradition.

Ideal for fans of East Asian-inspired folklore and complex world-building, this novel explores deep themes of identity and sacrifice. As Zhara navigates her new role among the Guardians, she must decide whether to remain in the shadows or embrace her true self to save her world. It is a great choice for teenagers who enjoy immersive fantasies with strong female leads and a touch of romance. Readers who loved Shadow and Bone or Cinder will find themselves captivated by S. Jae-Jones's lush prose and compelling characters.

Highlights:

• A rich, East Asian-inspired fantasy world filled with magic and mystery.
• A strong-willed protagonist who must overcome societal constraints.
• High-stakes action involving a race against a corrupting demonic plague.
• Themes of self-discovery, duty, and finding one's chosen family.

Guardians of Dawn: Ami is a breathtaking East Asian-inspired fantasy that is perfect for readers who love epic quests and rich world-building. Li Ami is an exile, living on the fringes of society while caring for her father, whose strange ravings might actually be a dire prophecy. When a mysterious blight threatens their harvest and her father is arrested, Ami must step into her role as the Guardian of Wood to save her family and her world. This high-stakes adventure is an ideal choice for fans of Shadow and Bone or Cinder.

As the Morning Realms face a rising tide of undead and the threat of the Mother of Ten Thousand Demons, Ami joins forces with Jin Zhara, the Guardian of Fire. Together, they must journey to the Root of the World to seal a demon portal. This story is a great choice for teens who enjoy stories of self-discovery, magical destiny, and slow-burn romance. With its blend of folklore and fast-paced action, it is a must-read for anyone interested in diverse fantasy narratives.

Highlights:

• An immersive East Asian-inspired fantasy world with deep lore.
• A compelling journey of an exiled girl discovering her true power.
• High-stakes action featuring elemental magic and undead revenants.
• Themes of family loyalty, duty, and finding one's place in the world.

In the thrilling third installment of the Guardians of Dawn series, Princess Yulana—known as Yuli—finds herself at the center of a crumbling empire. With her grandfather’s death leaving the throne in question, Yuli must navigate a brewing civil war, a mysterious sleeping sickness, and a plague of hungry ghosts. As the Guardian of Wind, she is tasked with restoring balance to the Morning Realms, but the greatest challenge might be the Grand Game—a high-stakes political competition that will decide the future of her people and the entire empire.

This sweeping fantasy is perfect for children and teens who love East Asian-inspired world-building and stories of magical destiny. Readers who enjoy complex political maneuvering and high-stakes magic will be captivated by Yuli’s struggle to manage both demonic threats and the schemes of her former best friend turned rival, Kho. It is an ideal choice for fans of epic fantasy series like Shadow and Bone or Six of Crows, offering a rich blend of folklore, action, and emotional depth.

Highlights:

• A richly imagined East Asian-inspired fantasy world filled with spirits and folklore.
• High-stakes political intrigue centered around the mysterious Grand Game.
• A strong female protagonist balancing magical responsibilities with royal duty.
• Compelling character dynamics featuring a tense rivals-to-allies relationship.
• The exciting continuation of the Guardians of Dawn saga.