Rating: 4 stars

I received a digital copy of this book through the publisher on NetGalley for an honest review.

After reading this book’s predecessors, Guardians of Dawn: Yuli does a wonderful job of picking up where they left off, and keeps me, as a reader, hooked to find out what happened next. I already knew I’d enjoy reading a book from Yuli’s perspective because I’ve enjoyed her character since she was introduced in Guardians of Dawn: Zhara. And this book confirmed that, because her perspective was what I was expecting. However, I also enjoyed it because she’s an enjoyable character in this series to me. What makes her enjoyable as a character is how relatable she is. I also enjoyed getting to see her use her magic as the Guardian of Wind.

What I also enjoyed about reading this book was the perspectives of the other characters. I especially enjoyed reading Yuli’s best friend Kho’s story. Like Yuli, I found her to be enjoyable to read about. I especially enjoyed reading the chapters that had both of them in it, as I enjoyed seeing their interactions with each other. At the same time, though, I also felt bad for Kho in this book. She has a lot that’s expected of her to do in the name of her family, and then a lot of bad things happen to her family as the story progresses. I also enjoyed seeing Zhara and Ami again here and seeing what they were up to after the events in Guardians of Dawn: Ami. It was nice getting to see them again and having them all work together with Yuli and Kho.

What I also enjoyed about Guardians of Dawn: Yuli was the fantasy elements in the story, as well as learning about the Grand Game. In this book, there’s a waking dreamer sickness infecting people in the Morning Realms that only Yuli’s magic as the Guardian of Wind can help heal. But she has something else to deal with while this is going on because the Morning Realms are currently under threat of war. This is due to the death of her grandfather, who didn’t name a successor to the realm, and she volunteers to compete in the Grand Game to prevent the empire from falling into the wrong hands. I enjoyed this aspect of the story because I felt like, as a reader, I was getting to see what was going on in Yuli’s life and what she would have to do as the Guardian of Wind to help protect the world from evil.

If there’s anything with Guardians of Dawn: Yuli that I didn’t enjoy, it would have to be how predictable certain moments in the story were, and the ending. When I was reading, I felt like I knew pretty early on which character was the demon responsible for the waking dreamer sickness that Yuli would have to face. And as the story continued and events happened, I felt like I was just receiving even more confirmation that this character was responsible for what was going on here. While I don’t necessarily mind, I feel like it did take away from me wanting to find out who it was because of how it would impact one of the characters’ lives. I also didn’t like the ending too, because I feel like it left a lot unresolved. Granted, I know there’s going to be another book in this series, as I know the last Guardian hasn’t been revealed yet. But I feel like it left so many things open that I’m having a hard time visualizing how the next book will wrap everything up. I also didn’t like it because of how it’ll impact Yuli and Kho’s relationship in the next book.

But overall, I enjoyed reading this book just as much as I enjoyed reading the rest of the books in this series. And I highly recommend this book to anyone else who’s already read Guardians of Dawn: Zhara and Guardians of Dawn: Ami and found they enjoyed those books in this world and want to read more of the characters’ story. I also recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a story that focuses more on the fantasy elements in the plot than romance, as while there’s romance in this series, it’s pretty light in comparison to other book series I’ve read. So if you love reading books with fantasy and romance but focus more on fantasy, I think you’ll really enjoy reading this. Guardians of Dawn: Yuli was published on August 19, 2025, for those interested in continuing to read the Guardians of Dawn series.

I would like to thank Wednesday books for providing a digital copy of this novel. This was surprisingly fun. The story is told in three parts. Yuli is a guardian of Dawn, a secret she has kept from her best friend Kho. When her grandfather passes away, a fight for power over the kingdom begins and Yuli must make tough decisions. She eventually finds herself at opposing sides of the conflict with Kho.
The story really picks up when the tournament to decide the right to the throne, the Grand game, organized as three battles begins. I found the story at its best when we get to these battles. Ultimately, there is an event that challenges the participants and presents a threat so large that the importance of the Grand Game is called into question. I couldn't put down the last 30% of the novel as a binge read from this point to the end. The story culminates in a battle against powerful demons. I was a bit surprised by the ending, which was less joyous than I expected. It elevated the story for me as it piqued my interest in a future story.

Rating: 4.5/5
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is the third book in the Guardians of Dawn series, and trust me—each book keeps getting better and better. In this installment, the story takes us north with Yuli as she faces new demons, political intrigue, romance, and dangerous trials, all while grappling with the revelation of her true identity as a princess.

One thing I especially loved about this book was the multi-POV storytelling. We get to see events unfold not just through Yuli’s eyes, but also Zhara’s and Ami’s, which adds depth to the narrative and keeps the stakes high as the guardians unravel the mystery of who—or what—holds the Northern portion of the Songs of Order and Chaos.

Yuli’s journey is the heart of the story, and her growth was incredible to watch. Even though she’s royalty, she remains a guardian—spirit-walking, battling demons, and facing the mother of demons herself. She’s fierce, loyal, and willing to do whatever it takes to protect Kang’s rule for the good of both the north and the realm as a whole. Her values of trust and respect shine through, and I loved how she wasn’t afraid to “get dirty” when needed.

There’s also the fascinating tension with Kho, her childhood friend turned rival. Their dynamic was written with so much care—their clashes, their words, their unspoken bond underneath it all. The slow build of their tension made me eager to see how things would unfold between them, especially as they faced trials, demons, and the strange “walking dreamers’ sickness” together.

One of the strengths of this series is how each book focuses on a specific guardian’s powers and challenges, while still highlighting the bond of friendship and found family among them all. The action scenes were vivid and thrilling, the world-building continues to be breathtaking, and the ending left me desperate for more. That cliffhanger was brutal—I need book four ASAP!

If you love YA fantasy filled with rich imagery, dynamic character arcs, high-stakes action, and the beauty of loyal friendships, this series is an absolute must-read.

A big thank-you to NetGalley and SMP for the opportunity to read and review this book.

I will be honest I didn’t enjoy this book quite as much as I liked the first book. That being said this book does a lovely job world building and has dynamic characters that the reader is going to want to root for. This book is accessible for both older and younger teens and even adults will be swept up by this series.
Thank you so much to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

One step at a time is the motto of the Guardians this book as they continue to fight against the Mother of Ten Thousand Demons and her minions. The story follows Yuli's journey as she returns home and readers are introduced to the issues she faces at home. The story starts strong with action, introducing more POVs than previous books, which is excellent since our characters are separated at the beginning of the book. As events unfold around Yuli, she has to explore more of her powers as she embraces her purpose and what it means to be a Guardian. Her mental fortitude and competitive spirit translates well into her growing powers of the Guardian of Wind and she is forced to make tough decisions. The story also lays down the the framework for the final book, locating the final Guardian, and the ultimate battle against chaos to seal the portals.

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and authors for the eARC.

Sweeping and emotional—Yuli’s fight against ghosts and political unrest blends court intrigue with elemental magic. It’s a rich, character-driven fantasy that hits as hard in its quiet moments as in its battles.

This was a good continuation of the Guardians of Dawn series. I found it captivating, easy to get back in the world, and overall a good story. I enjoyed meeting new characters and how they connected to the main characters, as well as some of the recurring characters!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books for the ARC!

Guardians of Dawn Yuli, picks up where book 2 left off. Princess Yulana "Yuli" of the North, has returned to home but she lands in the middle of a political crisis while also trying to complete a mission with the Guardians.

Yuli has multi POVs. The reader still gets to enjoy the perspective of the Guardians and previous characters as well as their journeys throughout the story. Yuli's character has always been intriguing, she shows strength, passion and a willingness to do whats necessary for the greater good. I enjoyed reading the relationship dynamic between her and Kho, the other competitor for the throne. The tension between them was one of the many reasons I couldn't put this book down.

The supernatural elements in this story did not disppoint! The sleeping curse, demon portal, demon leaders, looking the next guardian, all added to what I initially loved about the story. There's always more than obstacle for the characters.

Overall, I loved this book and I cant wait to get my hands on book 4.

another installment of my favorite written anime! I feel like I can picture S. Jae-Jones writing so clearly in my head, and it's Sailor Moon vibes but I sub out the characters for the Guardians of Dawn. LOVE that this was SAPPHIC RIVALS (and sort of second chance/best friend).

The little nuggets of info about book 4 at the end have me SO EXCITED! Cannot wait for November of next year 😭

I so enjoyed my time in the Morning Realms with Yuli attempting an impossible balance between political schisms and the clear and present danger of waking dreamer sickness and hungry ghosts roaming the once beautiful and peaceful world in which she grew up. The world building, the magical systems, the characters and the huge stakes combine to make the story a breathless, wonderful adventure, an absolute immersive pleasure. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.

It was great to dive back into this series! Overall I've really enjoyed it. The characters are the best part about this series. They're so lovable, and there's something fun about them being so young yet having the world on their shoulders. It has the vibes of a classic YA chosen one tale where you can't always trust the adults in the world.

I like how with each book, the characters from the last story roll over as we assemble the full Guardians of Dawn team. I remember being hesitant to read book 2 when I found out it was technically about a different character, but once I realized that you don't lose the lovable cast of characters book-to-book, I've really found myself enjoying the series overall. Also, we had the benefit of Yuli having been present at least in some capacity in the last two books, so by the time we get to this book, she feels more like an old friend we're ready to get to know deeper rather than a whole new person to be introduced. But with the introduction of Kho, we got to know more of Yuli's past retroactively and see the things that happened before we met her in previous books.

Now with our three Guardians leading the charge against the demons of the world, I was getting some serious K-Pop Demon Hunters vibes (my current obsession) which was super fun. They're young and spunky and full of personality (and a little bit of drama), but also working together to kick some serious demon butt. What I do enjoy though is that this book has a lot more political plot, even moreso than the previous two books. At first it was a little bit confusing and hard to follow, but it ended up adding extra layers of tension and high stakes to this story.

All in all, I think my only complaint is the pacing. Like I mentioned above, in the beginning half of the book there was a lot of new politics introduced, which felt like it slowed the story down a bit. Then, we introduced the Grand Game which was an exciting twist, but to me that felt like it was over too quickly. Then, at the end, the final conflict with the demon seemed a bit rushed. I think there are areas where things could be more balanced in pacing. So, I ended up giving this book 3.75 stars (rounded up to 4 for Netgalley)

Thanks again to Netgalley and Wednesday books for sending me an eARC copy of this book to review.

S. Jae-Jones’ Guardians of Dawn: Yuli is the kind of fantasy that feels both familiar and refreshing—rooted in Eastern myth but thrumming with a YA pulse. Yuli is a heroine caught between power, duty, and heart, navigating a world where magic simmers just beneath the surface. The storytelling is lush, full of vivid imagery and the kind of headstrong characters who pull you in instantly.

But what makes this installment really click is the blend of romance, danger, and self-discovery. It’s not just about saving kingdoms—it’s about claiming agency, making messy choices, and embracing the vulnerability that comes with them. Perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Renée Ahdieh, it’s swoony, action-packed, and impossible not to binge.

Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc. This book comes out today.

I don't know what it is about this series but every time I read a book, it takes me about three weeks, a strong will and dragging myself from one chapter to another. Is it the pacing? The story itself? I don't know but I don't care to the point of skimming which is something I never ever do usually. This series' saving grace is the covers in my opinion. The characters aren't bad but they're not great either. I feel like by book 3 I dislike Ami more than book 2 and trying to destroy the amulet was a very messy business in my opinion that was just chaotic. We still haven't met the Guardian of Water at all which is weird considering we met Yuli for example in book 1.

A nice addition to a series I had begun to reread again. I loved that Yuli got her own book where we got to know her better than we did in the past two books. Filled with action adventure and romance, this series has something for a wide variety of readers to like Ireally liked this one and am again grateful for the opportunity so thanks again Netgalley.
4/5

💚💜 Guardians of the Dawn: Yuli ARC Review 💜💚

Thank you so much to S Jae-Jones and Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Guardians of the Dawn: Yuli is a YA fantasy and book three in the Guardians of the Dawn series. Princess Yulana has a secret - she has magic and she’s the guardian of the wind. After the death of her grandfather who didn’t name an heir, Yuli feels stuck between political uncertainty and magical duties. When there’s a Grand Game planned to determine the fate of her kingdom, can she manage battling political games and demons at the same time?

This was an interesting read. While I enjoyed Yuli’s story and growth, a lot of this book felt like build up for the rest of the series. It didn’t feel like Yuli and Kho had the same romantic development as the other books, which I kind of missed. It felt like there was a lot going on and unfortunately their relationship was lost among the rest of the story for me

Overall this was a three star read. I love this world and the characters, but this one felt like an in-between read for me with lots of filler. This book does have some potential triggers, so please check if you’re sensitive. This book didn’t really have much of a romantic subplot, so no ratings for spice will be given

If you’re a fan of YA fantasy with strong characters, beautiful world building and Eastern Asian mythology, then absolutely pick up this series! As this is a continuation of the story started on Zhara, I absolutely recommend reading these books in order.

The third installment of the Guardians of Dawn series delivers a breathtaking tale of political intrigue and supernatural chaos through Princess Yulana's compelling perspective. Thrust into a power vacuum after her grandfather's death, Yuli navigates treacherous political waters while embracing her destiny as the Guardian of Wind, a responsibility that couldn't come at a more complicated time.

S. Jae-Jones masterfully balances Yuli's internal struggles with external threats looming over the Morning Realms. The waking dreamer sickness sweeping through the land creates an eerie backdrop as hungry ghosts roam the steppes, adding urgency to Yuli's quest. What truly captivated me, though, was watching her transformation from reluctant royal to determined Guardian who recognizes her own power beyond her family's expectations.

The complicated dynamic between Yuli and Kho sizzles with tension on every page. Their evolution from best friends to rivals carries emotional weight that perfectly complements the high-stakes Grand Game determining the empire's future. Their interactions are layered with unresolved feelings that had me completely invested in their relationship's outcome.

This book brilliantly advances the series' overarching mission to find the fourth guardian and confront the Mother of Ten Thousand Demons while still delivering a satisfying, self-contained arc for Yuli. The seamless integration of the other guardians into the narrative maintains connection to earlier books without overshadowing Yuli's journey.

Fans of the previous installments won't be disappointed, this might be the strongest entry yet. The convergence of political maneuvering and supernatural elements creates an irresistible blend of fantasy that kept me turning pages late into the night. I'm now desperately waiting to discover the fourth guardian's identity in the next book and see how these remarkable characters will finally confront their ultimate nemesis.

Special thanks to Wednesday Books and NetGalley for my advance copy. As always, the thoughts shared here are completely my own.

Yuli by S. Jae-Jones is an atmospheric YA fantasy series.
Woah! Such an outstanding addition to a fantastic series!
One of my absolute favorites!
I think the world building of Yuli is done so well here.
Detailed and complex.
The action and intriguing characters help keep the pace going.
The writing was absolutely incredible and kept me fully engaged the entire time.
S. Jae Jones knows how to create such captivating characters with a plot that keeps you flipping through pages at a break neck pace.

This captivating fantasy will enchant readers with its compelling protagonist and leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment in this series.

Thank You NetGalley and Wednesday Books for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7830434634

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/guardians-of-dawn-s-jae-jones/1146167603

I’d like to preface my review by stating that I had no idea this was part of a series when I accepted a widget for this book- I assumed it was a standalone set in a universe. This is my own fault alone.

Guardians of Dawn: Yuli stars Princess Yulana, the Guardian of the Wind. Princess by day, protector of the people of the steppes by night, it’s her responsibility to help find the last pieces of the puzzle needed to stop the Mother of Demons from rising again. But with a mysterious illness causing people to fall asleep for unknown amounts of time, only to wake up empty, it’s clear that demonic energy is afoot- and she and the other guardians must work with her former best friend, Kho, to put an end to this.

Perhaps it’s because I’ve never read a single book in this series before, but all of the characters just felt…stiff. They had people they loved and cared for, but while in most books you can find yourself going through the emotions with them, I felt nothing. None of the bonds they had carried any emotional weight to me. There was also so much going on, but so little at the same time.

At any rate, Guardians of Dawn: Yuli releases on August 19th! If you like magical girls, considering checking this series out! Thank you to Wednesday Books/St. Martin’s Press for sending me the widget through Netgalley to read in exchange for my review!

Goodreads link is up now, Review will be updated when up on socials.

The Guardians of Dawn continues in the third book, this time starring Princess Yulana. Like the other books, this one primarily takes place in a different part of the world from the others, expanding the magical environment these books take place in. Yuli has to balance being a Guardian of Dawn as well as trying to manage political pressures, a sickness, hiding her magical powers, and dealing with her former best friend who now is one of her enemies. The fairy tale of this book is less pronounced than with the others in the series, but there are still plenty of hints.

This book matures a bit from the first two in that the ending is more complicated than the others. The first two books had their conflicts wrapped up somewhat easily, the romance be mostly smooth sailing once the initial awkward stage passed, and the bad guys defeated without a lot of sacrifice or suffering. That isn’t so much the case with this one, making the next book feel way too far from its release!

All of the books have had multiple POV characters, but this is the first time it’s felt really overwhelming to me. Even though we’ve gotten to know most of the characters in the previous books, it’s getting harder to keep track of everyone and to feel invested in the newer characters. Part of that is alleviated by some of our favorite characters from previous books not being there for the majority of the book, but that also meant that I missed them quite a bit. I did like that we were able to grow Zhara, Ami, and Yuli’s relationship more when Gaden and Han were gone.

I didn’t connect with the new characters as much in this book, and I wasn’t as invested in the romance. It’s more of a long-time friend romance than a falling in love romance, but I didn’t pick up as much chemistry from them. They aren’t with each other very often, so the reader has to do more trusting that they’re great together instead of seeing it.

This book felt the most difficult to follow of the series so far. I don’t know if it was because of the multiple characters or because there are worldbuilding gaps that are showing through in this new part of the world. It also felt like the competition, which should have been high stakes and center stage, took such a backseat that I kept forgetting it was supposed to be a huge deal.

Like with the others in the series, this book certainly has its weaknesses, but it’s still a delightfully fun adventure. In spite of its flaws, I enjoyed it very much, and I love our continued girl power stories with strong female characters in charge of saving the world. I’m looking forward to the next book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

The third book was easier for me to read than the second now that I have become better acquainted with the newly added characters. In book two we met so many new faces that I was overwhelmed to say the least, but this broadens what we know about them and what makes them unique. These are absolutely NOT advised to be read as standalones because you get information you need to understand the overall plot in each book as well as an understanding of the characters.

In book one we are introduced to Yuli and she is probably my favorite character of the series. Her personality is so great! This book follows multiple point of view with a lot going on, but everything does connect into each other eventually. Yuli's main obstacle is that she needs to win the Grand Game--because the future of her people are at stake as Kho's mother is trying to seize power. Kho is a newly introduced character and we learn early on that they are responsible for a tragic fate the beheld her cousin and someone that used to be the best friend of Yuli--someone Yuli wanted more with. Now Kho's back, Yuli is angry but confused.

The romance in Yuli is present but it's more swoon and I miss yous vs that more intense romantic feelings we had in Zhara. This is definitely more action and planning.