The Guardians of Dawn: Zhara serves as an excellent introduction to what has the potential to be a great series. Off the bat, we are introduced to a titular protagonist and her unusual circumstances. Part Cinderella story, part Sailor Moon, Jones tells the story of Jin Zhara, a young lady plagued with magic in a world in which it is forbidden. While trying to keep her magic at bay, the world around her starts to fall apart as monsters begin to appear and wreaking havoc on the land. Zhara must choose, the safety of herself and her family, or the safety of the world.

Jones’s world-building is pretty immediate, a mixture of showing and telling— often heavier in the telling. From the start, Zhara proves to be pretty par for the course when it comes to YA fantasy. Zhara is your run-of-the-mill female YA protagonist, but not in a way where it should be held against her. She follows a traditional growth arc– meek to confidant– and has internal and external challenges she is forced to overcome. Jones, like many authors before her, uses magic partially as a symbol for internal challenges, and she manages to do so effectively. There were some fumbles in the character writing, particularly in the writing of some secondary characters, but many more wins. The found family aspect of this novel, a heartwarming and relatable theme, is one of its strongest points, and there were numerous times in which secondary characters stole the spotlight from Zhara.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this book was the ambience. While not wildly unique, the magic and world feel realistic and enjoyable. Jones’s inspiration from manga and anime, evident in the storytelling and visual descriptions, adds a familiar and comfortable touch. The novel reads on the younger end of YA for the most part, with content that—while young—is still enjoyable for older and adult readers. 

Zhara is a good time and would serve as a good introduction to reading, especially for teens who are drawn to manga and anime. Jones’s inclusive world truly has something for everyone.