Haven by Ceril N. Domace - Book Review

Haven by Ceril N. Domace is an intriguing first book in a series that is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the exploration of familial love, specifically how far Owen is willing to go to protect his children. The reader is quickly drawn into Owen’s world, feeling the depth of his love for his family and the lengths he will go to keep them safe, even when it means stepping into dangerous territory.

Haven's world-building is just as impressive. The blending of the fae with humans is seamlessly executed, and the variety of fantastical creatures is vividly described, making it easy for readers to visualize and immerse themselves in the story. The characters are multifaceted and their personalities are intricately woven with the supernatural elements of the story, making them both relatable and intriguing. The reader will find themselves invested in the characters, often forgetting they are not human.

The only downside of the world-building is that it can feel contradictory in places, leaving the reader struggling to connect the dots. This is compensated by the strong focus on character interaction and dialogue, which adds a level of realism to the book, even in its fantastical elements.

The book is well-paced, balancing moments of domesticity with epic fantasy battles. The contrast of young children caught up in massive fantasy brawls is both charming and terrifying, adding to the overall sense of tension and danger.

In summary, Haven is a dialog-heavy book that will leave readers invested in the loveable and believable characters. The author sets up the sequel well at the end, leaving readers eagerly expecting the next book in the series. Overall, Haven is a must-read for those who enjoy epic fantasy, strong familial bonds, and intricately detailed world-building.