This is one of those books that you just have to read for yourself to understand why it's so great.

I've read Dark Rise twice now, and I am embarrassed to admit that I called more of the plot twists the first time around than the second (so I guess it's a good thing I reread it before the sequel releases).
I will admit that the middle can be a bit slow at times, but the ending is 110% worth it. Everything I want to say about the book would spoil it, so I won't say much.
Will and Violet are great main characters; Will is empathetic and sweet while Violet is strong and loyal. Cyprian grew on me, although I still don't really like Katherine. James is...well, James is James and while he's not my favorite, I can see book two easily changing that opinion.
What really hit home for me with this book though were the vibes. The plot was good, but it wasn't crazy and the characters were great but none of them really stood out as amazing. But the concepts? For some reason, I am a sucker for books where the characters fall victim to their predetermined fates and this story is no different. The idea of unavoidable prophecies and cycles of history repeating themselves are some of my favorite tropes. The excitement I have for book two is immeasurable.
Dark Rise is a great read for anyone looking for a dark fantasy with tons of plot twists and what I anticipate to be a wonderfully done slowburn enemies-to-lovers. (Please just read it I need to talk about it with someone.)
4.5/5
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