The Good Luck Girls - Charlotte Nicole Davis

Sold into slavery, as children they work as daybreak girls in the house until they are old enough to become sundown girls, when they work for their keep in a very different way. They are called Good Luck Girls and are expected to believe they are the lucky ones because they live in relative comfort with plenty of food and most importantly, protection from the dangers of life outside the house. Revenants, vengeants and many others besides.

On Clementine's first night as a sundown girl, she accidentally kills her brag and has no choice than to go on the run. With her sister Aster and three other girls from the house, they plan an escape from the welcome house. But even then, with their tattooed favors marking them out, they face the constant threat of capture.

The story is told mostly in Aster's voice. Although she isn't actually that much older than Clem, she seems years older and is driven by her determination to keep her sister safe. She leads the group even though she isn't sure she has the strength, but when any of the girls are in trouble, she is unstoppable and will do anything to protect them.

The book is full of ups and downs. Moments of despair and times of relief, both touching and joyful. Reading a sample of the book, I thought it would be interesting but didn't expect to find it as engrossing as I did! I found it so hard to put down and hardly noticed the time passing. One thing I would have liked would be a bit more explanation. I don't think it is ever fully explained what is a dustblood, brag, or why they don't have shadows. Mostly I could guess but would have liked to know a bit more about some things. I wonder if there will be a follow up book. There is a satisfying ending but I feel like it has been left open to the possibility of more.

The Good Luck Girls are given new names when they come to the house, all named after the flowers that they have as their favors.  I've made a Flower Mojito, adding elderflower, jasmine and lavender to the traditional cocktail. Gently muddle (crush) a handful of mint leaves in the bottom of a tall glass. Add 2 shots of rum, a couple of dashes of lavender syrup and elderflower cordial, a shot of cold jasmine tea and half shot of lime juice. Add some ice and stir well. 

Spin the Dawn - Elizabeth Lim

The Emperor is looking for a new Imperial Tailor, and Maia knows this is the job for her, but women can't be tailors, let alone work for the Emperor himself. So when a royal messenger arrives asking for her father, she decides to pose as her brother and take his place. After fighting off the competition and winning her place, Maia is tasked with making 3 mythical dresses. One from the laughter of the sun, the second from the tears of the moon and the last from the blood of stars.

Maia is so sweet but so determined. Even the threat of discovery doesn't stop her from doing what she thinks is right. And she literally risks everything, including her life, for her family. Edan is quite a mysterious character and I liked his mischievousness right away. I loved the connection between them and their conversations, with Maia wary of the Enchanter and Edan clearly fascinated by her.

I don't think I really knew what I was getting into when I started this book. The cover attracted me first and then all the praise from other readers. I'm very glad I read it as I really enjoyed the book and hope that book 2 won't be far behind. The book was wonderfully written and I found it completely immersive.

I requested the book from my library but was lucky enough to be sent this lovely swag from the author.

To make the Starry Night cocktail, stir the following with ice: 2 shots Chardonnay, 1/2 shot pear eau de vie, 1/2 shot maraschino liqueur. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a star anise.