Geminis have been outlawed for over a century . . . until her. On the night of Cassie’s twenty-first birthday, she realizes a terrifying darkness is lurking inside her, waiting to emerge. When she is taken by a group of Zodiac demigods with magical powers, her entire life turns upside down. She learns her rightful place in a deadly prophecy, and in the war that could either save them all, or destroy them all . . .Will Cassie be the last hope for the Zodiacs? Or will she become their worst nightmare? Hero Stamos is in line to become the next Archon of the New Orleans Arena. He’s the perfect soldier, the best demon slayer, and the strongest Leo of them all, but when Cassie comes into his life, she threatens to ruin everything he’s worked for—and Hero might just let her. In a rivalry against prophecies, war, love, and darkness, what is the cost for survival?
Like Greek Mythology? Well FMC, Cassie, discovers she’s actually got a HORRIBLE fate but no worries Hero (aka Percy Jackson IMPROVED) is here to help throughout the story!
I want to begin with saying that I DEVOURED this book in a day!! All of my favorite ya books just grew up in age and I can relate to them better as an adult. Cassie is a newly 21 year old who has her entire world change the night of her birthday. This author said she was inspired by the Mortal Instruments and Percy Jackson (and a couple other books but those were my big sellers) and boy oh boy did she take all my favorite things about those series and make me fall in love with her work!! This book has some fun references to people, books, and movies which is always fun! It's like an Easter egg hunt and when you find one it's like you're in on the secret. She also tackled issues like not jumping head first into problems (which a lot of young heroins normally do *cough cough* Clary), family loss and feeling guilty/responsible, having really tough and uncomfortable conversations. She talked about handling being a loner/outsider, made me miss my best friend and my siblings through really sweet and authentic moments, all in one book. I cannot wait for the next one to come out! She left it on a really good cliffhanger too after we just had an epic moment (🌶️ for a surprise spicy scene hopefully there will be more in book two 🤞). I was really surprised this author was able to keep the fun of ya but also not make the characters really really young so they could have grown up feeling and so I didn't feel like a creep reading that, I applaud her! I truly can't say enough good things about this book. All in all, I haven't been this consumed by a series in a while! 5 out of 5 stars and I have a feeling this series is going to be the next big hit!!
The author’s story instead of unfolding natural was a complete information dump, that took the joy out of the story. My advice would have been to slow down the story and have let it unfold naturally. Maybe the Kindle Vella format would have worked better, but as a complete book I just couldn’t get immersed in the story.
The overall vibe of of stars and tides was amazing and so fun to read. This book gives me a mixture of different book vibes and I’m here for it. Think of zodiac academy, mortal instruments and I’ve heard people mention Percy Jackson as well. But to me it doesn’t copy those books which I was afraid of in the beginning.
This book is written in the third pov where Cassie finds out there is a hidden world. (Screams zodiac academy right??) While at first I thought that it was just going to be like that book I was pleasantly surprised when the book took a different turn.
I really enjoyed reading it and the pacing was fast. But for my liking sometimes a bit too fast. At times it felt a bit rushed which kind of took me out of the story. I am very curious to read the next one in the series tho. Can’t wait!!
I would recommend it if you really liked the books mentioned earlier in this review and the overall vibe of them but want something different. If you like fantasy with romance this is for you!
Thank you to the author for giving me this e-arc copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
This one is for everyone who loves Shadowhunters with a Percy Jackson crossover. A secret magical institute sworn to protect the world from demons with powers based on your Zodiac sign, a diverse cast, impending doom and a fated lovestory that plays with tropes of betrayal and being the chosen one.
There is a lot happening, which ensures to keep you engaged. It really sets up the world with different threads lined out with the possibility for a larger series (which I love).
The book can be rated YA right until the very last chapter in which we go from 0 to 100 real quick. I don’t mind a spicy scene at all, but there was no build up of sexual tension, which would have made it feel more natural. It kind of feels like a bonus scene that doesn’t necessarily had to be included in the main story.
I enjoyed reading this and the cliffhanger ensures that Of Mirrors And Ice is the next book I’ll be picking up, ASAP!
I received this eARC courtesy of the author. Thank you for the review opportunity!
Thank you for the arc opportunity<3 (my reviews are always spoiler free and honest no matter how i receive a book)
Okay I LOVE IT. This Isekai-style story was so cute. Like, i had good expectations- but it exceeded my expectations. Greek mythology meets zodiacs, meets badass fights and found family? Some of my favorite things. :)
This is marketed as NA, but it is very much YA in my opinion. And not in a bad way at all- its easily digestible and a good book for someone to jump into fantasy with!
I think the premise was a really good one, but it felt very rushed and underdeveloped. The characters were shallowly defined and the story was one defined event after another, rather than a story that flows. I have hope for the author and think that over time, the bumps will even out.
Where to start with this book? I’m a huge Percy Jackson and Greek Mythology fan. So when I saw this on my Tik Tok being advertised as a darker PJ for adults, I was sold. Locklyn Blake picks you up by the back of your shirt and HURTLES you into a brand new magical world that will leave you wanting more. Set in a modern day Greek Mytho world where demigods powers are defined by their zodiac sign, you are planted in the middle of a new found family group as they race against time to prevent a war between the gods. This book is very fast paced, and leaves you on the edge of your seat wanting more. Something new and exciting is happening each page, with not one second of the story making you bored. Each character is fleshed out entirely and plays a role in the larger story. Not one word is wasted on a character that shows up just to fill space. And they are written to where you come to care for them. They all have their demons and problems in life, and they become just like family to you as you root for them to succeed. I went into this book not knowing anything about zodiacs or astrology. Ms. Blake took a subject I already loved, Greek Mythology, and mixed it with something new and unique to make her her own. I was never lost at all, and she did such an amazing job of explaining her own world to those readers who are experienced with one side but not the other, or any side at all. Of Stars and Tides is overall a fast paced book that will leave you on the edge of your seat, wanting to turn the page as quickly as possible to find out what happens next. In the span of time it took me to devour this book (2.5 days) I felt like I was at home in a brand new fantasy world, and my mind was blown with all that was happening. And the massive cliffhanger at the end? The author did exactly what she needed to to make the readers stare at the nearest calendar, waiting for the release of book 2.
3.5🌟 the found family and greek mythology of percy jackson, the aesthetic of shadowhunters, and an mmc with julian blackthorn/ percy jackson energy??
in order to keep this review spoiler free, i will say this: my biggest qualms with this book came at the end, when I felt that things unfolded rapidly all of a sudden. i also enjoyed that this book seemed YA, until the scene at the 99% mark that changed that (why!?)
overall, of stars and tides was a fun and fast paced read with elements of astrology, greek gods, and elemental powers. the overall concept has lots of potential and i can’t wait to see where the series takes us!
“Instead, she wrote poems based on the quilt she felt for the web of lies she’d spun. She found it easier to think of people, places, and things as poetry, as fiction. She could capture a moment in words, granting it immortality, a stability her tumultuous world has never known.”
A poetic, fast-paced fantasy romance grounded in greek mythology and astrology, all with immaculate academic vibes. The quote above perfectly illustrates the beautiful voice Locklyn has, as well as perfectly sets the tone for the story.
✦ Urban Fantasy ✦ Greek Mythology Inspired ✦ Astrology ✦ Found Family ✦ Academia ✦ LIESSSSS & Plot Twists ✦ Fated/Forbidden Love ✦ Love Triangle ✦ Prophecies ✦ Dual POV ✦ Diverse Representation
Summary
On Cassie’s (FMC) 21st birthday, her world transforms from the mundane to an adventure of zodiacs, greek gods, self-discovery, family lies, and of course, romance. You follow Cassie as she discovers how she fits into this new world, with demon battles and an inward darkness trying to get out along the way.
“She’d never been more conflicted, never felt the tug of two separate lives so deeply.”
WOW, I was a little nervous going into this book because I was JUST SO EXCITED from the descriptions, but IT LIVED UP TO THE HYPE!!!!
Prose/Writing
One of the aspects that sets this book apart is how effortlessly poetic Locklyn’s writing style is. I felt that this was an easy-to-read book, with such a beautiful flow. You can tell just how much attention and love Locklyn put into this book, and she executed it in a way that was addicting and never confusing.
“She’d begun to see her life like the phases of the moon: sometimes she’d be broken, less than, and sometimes she’d be whole. She found peace in it, because she knew the only difference was that, unlike the moon, the tides of her life were not predictable. But that was okay, because no matter how far she might sink beneath the waves, she had proved to herself that she would always come back up for air.”
Vibes/Story
I am not someone who typically rates “vibe” books 5 stars, because I feel that when books get categorized that way by readers, it means the vibes were the best part (aka lacking elsewhere). This book had such amazing vibes, ON TOP OF developed characters, an engaging story, and beautiful writing (aka, while I HAVE to comment on the vibes, this is not your typical “vibe” book, it is much better). I LOVE magic academia settings, mythology inspired gods, and astrology vibes, and I feel that these vibes were the underlying deliciousness (weird word to describe, sorry lol) of the story.
The story focuses on several internal and external obstacles and I was always intrigued as to what was going to happen next. There were several moments of unveiled lies and plot twists, with one definitely throwing me for a loop. The plot is still very easy to follow, and I would say a bit of a simpler one overall (in comparison to the complex fantasy books with bigger world building/connections).
Characters
I LOVED the characters in this book. I find that the aspect of found family is much more popular in fantasy books nowadays, and sometimes it can feel forced or fall flat, but that was not the case here. Also, I imagine the majority of readers will have at least SOME interest in astrology, and so you’ll find it so interesting to read about each characters personalities and behaviors, connecting to their sign (whether you have a lot of knowledge in the typical behaviors or not, it’s fun to learn and read about)!!
Being a Gemini myself, I personally connected deeply to Cassie . From her relationship with her dad to her confusion in how multiple sides of her coexist. I think that her physical and mental battle with her dark side is something that many people can relate to, and it was brought to life beautifully throughout the story.
“A cage rattled in her mind, her dark side begging to be released, to feel this for her, so she did not have to. And a part of Cassie wanted to let it.”
I loved all of the side characters so much as well, and felt that Locklyn did such a great job at developing each of them. Quinn was a ball of sunshine, I wish I was Artemis , (small spoilers)
Romance
I loved Cassie’s romantic journey throughout the book. I also super appreciated that while it was a major aspect, it didn’t overshadow the rest of the story. The main reason I give this specific aspect a 4/5 is because I went in thinking it was a New Adult book, and while the rest of the book felt that way, the romance felt more YA. I don’t mean strictly whether or not there are spicy scenes (although obviously that’s part of it), but more in how the romance was approached. It seems like this will be going more into the NA vibe in future books though, which I’m excited about!!
Overall, I truly loved this book and I am SO glad I found it on bookstagram, because I know it’s going to be a series I am dedicated to obsessing over (and wishing I was a part of lol).
If you were a fan of Shadowhunters, then you are going to love this gem. What's more is the inclusion of Greek Mythology and Zodiacs. On her birthday, Cassie finds out she's part of a whole world that mere mortals don't know anything about. With the help of Hero and the group, she finds out all about the Zodiacs and gets ready for a war coming between the Immortal gods. This book has it all. Laughs, tears, friendship, and heartache.
If, like me, you were absolutely obsessed with the Percy Jackson books as a kid, now that we are adults, Of Stars and Tides by @locklynblake is the perfect read 💕
After learning that she is actually a Zodiac, and an illegal Gemini Zodiac at that, Cassie embarks on a quest to help save herself from succumbing to the evil soul living within her.
This book gave me all the nostalgia feels in the best way, but yet the story was still completely unique to itself.
I absolutely loved Cassie and the angsty pining between her and Hero. She had so much personal growth in the book and was a character you could truly root for.
The book was action packed and easy to read. The cliffhanger at the end had me on the edge of my seat. I already know I’ll be reading the next one in the series when it comes out!!
When i first heard about this book on tiktok I was enthralled. The book has so many amazing unique characters and aspects. Each main character has these powers that go with their astrological sign and I'm here for it!!! You follow along with the FMC who is thrown into a world she didn't even know existed. With facing dangers and problems, she must not only learn who she truly is, harness powers that are not only powerful but possibly deadly, and a new world, but also be prepared to lose everything she's ever known. So many want her for her unpredictable powers and she's fearful of losing herself to her darker side. You're on the edge of your seat, dying to know what happens next!!! Such a great intriguing read that you won't wanna put down!
This book is jam-packed with adventure, betrayal, a slow-burn romance, and of course magic. The author has built a unique world and a crazy cast of very different characters which I loved. The plot is well thought out and drags you along on a crazy ride. This is one of those books that you mourn the end of because you enjoyed reading it so much. It does end on a cliffhanger, and I cannot wait for book two!!
So much happened in this book I don’t even know where to start!
Our 21 year old FMC, Cassie, is one day thrown into a world of Greek Gods, astrology and demons to find out her kind, the Gemini, has been outlawed and she’s the first in years. I could write PAGES on this book, but to keep it short and sweet - 1000% YES, you should read this book immediately. This series throws you in right off the bat and has one of the best found family stories I’ve read this year so far. This book leaves you creating so many theories as to what’s next. I am so excited to continue on with Cassie, Hero, and the rest of the characters i’ve become so attached to.
Locklyn did an incredible job on this book - an indie author’s debut that compares to many well known fantasy books we all love. If you’re looking for something that gives the same feelings as Zodiac Academy, this is 10000% for you!
This book brought me right back to my middle school favorites. It truly is Shadow Hunters meets Percy Jackson and then throws in one of my new adult favorites: Zodiac Academy. It really has it all: betrayal, love interests, found family, discovered family. I couldn't get enough of it. The second book needs to come out immediately. The cliffhanger is absolutely brutal and left me with my mouth wide open. I loved that this story is based in New Orleans and hits the ground running. I can't wait to see what the author blesses us with in the next book!
Blake SUCKED me in from the beginning! When i saw it being advertised on tiktok i knew i had to read it asap! And it did NOT disappoint! If you like greek mythology, awesome magic system, i would highly recommend this book! I read it within a day it was that good!!
OMG. This was amazing and I was hooked right from the beginning. I can't wait for the next one! Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity to read this before official release.
This book had me hooked from the start!! The detail is amazing. New twists at every turn but it keeps you guessing. Cannot wait for the next one!! Fantastic!
Ever since I was young, I have loved fantasy as well as Greek mythology. This book is the perfect marriage of the two. I was so honored to receive this as an ARC read and I am so glad that I did! You’ll fall in love with the chosen family portrayed in this book and become invested in their trials and adventures. Of Stars and Tides is the perfect balance of love, adventure, and excitement with a pinch of spice thrown in. (Also a totally epic cliffhanger!). I loved that the story dove right into the excitement—it will certainly not leave you a little bored wondering when the pace picks up. I highly recommend this read!
The concept of this book was amazing and pulled me into the storyline right away! I thought the magic system was really fun and thought out pretty well. I enjoyed how the interactions and relationships between the characters added to the story instead of taking away from the plot! I was having so much fun reading this and just only wish it was longer so we had more time to learn the characters. But , overall it was a fast and exciting read! I cannot wait to see the story and author expand ! Extremely thankful to Locklyn for letting me read her book pre- release !!
This book is a great Start to the series. It had me on the edge the whole time. I truly enjoyed it and can't wait for the next one! It is something you won't be disappointed by. The ending blew me away!
I’m so glad I got an arc of this book! It is fantasy, but it is also very character driven, and fast passed! It almost felt ya but there is a slow burn romance in it that may have some spice near the end. I definitely will recommend this book!
I had the honor to read this as an advanced reader.
This book threw me back into my childhood in the best way! It had a similar feel to Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series, all while being a completely unique and wonderful book. The Zodiac/Demigod combination was something that I had never read before, and I feel like Locklyn Blake did a wonderful job of using those aspects to create a world uniquely hers. Let's just say Hero is the new and improved Percy! And who doesn't love a strong female character trying to change her terrible fate? I can't wait to see what the author has in store for these characters next!