Publishers Weekly
07/25/2022
In Bonnin’s Filipino mythology–inspired fantasy debut, teenage Seri and “the People” struggle to expand their ever-shrinking borders while warriors keep fearsome forest beasts at bay. Seri has left her home to aid Commander Eshai Unbroken, 19, in carrying out their government’s border expansion plans. Though initially nervous, Seri finds comfort in her routine training with Eshai and in assisting the valor, warriors who protect the settlements and their citizens from beasts who roam the forests. When an attack’s aftermath unearths evidence that it may have been a coordinated strike—something previously unheard of from the beasts—Seri and a small group led by Eshai travel to Vethava, the First City of the People, to report the startling development to their ruling council. There, Seri meets 17-year-old Tsana, who can somehow communicate with the beasts. The closer the two get, and the more Seri uncovers about the attacks, the more she questions her people’s slaughter of the beasts and her settlement’s history. Though messaging surrounding colonization and an Indigenous group’s right to fight back lacks nuance, Bonnin uses lushly described scenery and fantastical creatures to craft an action-packed adventure. All main characters are noted as having brown skin. Ages 14–up. (Aug.)
From the Publisher
Praise for Dauntless:
A 2023 Rise: Feminist Book List Pick
"An epic fantasy mixed with heart-pounding action and a touch of romance, Dauntless will ensnare readers until the very last page. Elisa A. Bonnin’s rich world building and gorgeous prose will leave you tearing through chapters. The rich magic, thrilling action and jolting twists will leave you craving more!" —Aiden Thomas, New York Times-bestselling author of Cemetery Boys and Lost in the Never Woods
"Fast-paced, original and fantastic, Dauntless is a breathtaking joy of a book." —Tasha Suri, award-winning author of Empire of Sand and The Jasmine Throne
"Dauntless captures the best parts of every action-packed fantasy—breathtaking scenes of power and victory that push the limits of human tenacity. This is a triumphant tale of courage and self discovery that will make you believe in your own strength." —Kylie Lee Baker, author of The Keeper of Night
"With a truly inventive setting and so many twists and turns, Dauntless takes you on a journey that's often bloody, sometimes sweet, but that always keeps you guessing until the very end. Likable characters and sweet romances only add to this wonderful mix of ultimately embracing the unknown with courage rather than prejudice." —Diana Pinguicha, author of A Curse of Roses
"An amazing read, full of non-stop action and breathless moments. Spending time with these characters was a delight!" —K.S. Villoso, author of The Wolf of Oren-Yaro
"Dauntless offers a compelling, complex narrative following a young teen soldier caught between two worlds and haunted by her past. Along with its slow-burn, sapphic romance and verdant jungle setting inspired by the Philippines, it's sure to capture readers' hearts and imaginations." —Sam Taylor, author of We Are the Fire
"Bonnin uses lushly described scenery and fantastical creatures to craft an action-packed adventure." — Publishers Weekly
