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The Wind that Sweeps the Stars
A taut high fantasy as an assassin must destroy an empire from within, eliminating wizards, their demons, and even the emperor. For the lives—for the very souls—of her people, she must succeed within a single day, or her homeland will be destroyed.
ALONE AGAINST AN EMPIRE.
When Yash of Zeltah arrives in the fortress city of Honaq she is greeted as a barbarian, a simple pawn. Her marriage to prince Chej has been arranged, they say, to avert war. Yet she knows the truth, for the armies already ravage the land. A skilled and deadly assassin, there is more to Yash than any might suspect. Before another day can pass, she must defeat the masters of the nine towers—the plagues, magics, and monsters they control, the soldiers they command. Without raising an alarm, she must kill all who oppose her—even the immortal emperor. The lives and souls of Zeltah, the people and the land upon which they live, all depend on it.
ALONE AGAINST AN EMPIRE.
When Yash of Zeltah arrives in the fortress city of Honaq she is greeted as a barbarian, a simple pawn. Her marriage to prince Chej has been arranged, they say, to avert war. Yet she knows the truth, for the armies already ravage the land. A skilled and deadly assassin, there is more to Yash than any might suspect. Before another day can pass, she must defeat the masters of the nine towers—the plagues, magics, and monsters they control, the soldiers they command. Without raising an alarm, she must kill all who oppose her—even the immortal emperor. The lives and souls of Zeltah, the people and the land upon which they live, all depend on it.
400 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2024
6 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Greg Keyes
85 books655 followersGregory Keyes is a writer of science fiction and fantasy who has written both original and media-related novels under both the names J. Gregory Keyes and "Greg Keyes".
Greg Keyes was born in to a large, diverse, storytelling family. He received degrees in anthropology from Mississippi State and the University of Georgia before becoming a fulltime writer.
He lives in Savannah, Georgia.
Greg Keyes was born in to a large, diverse, storytelling family. He received degrees in anthropology from Mississippi State and the University of Georgia before becoming a fulltime writer.
He lives in Savannah, Georgia.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 6, 2024
4.0 Stars
Video Review https://youtu.be/OwmDitabVpI
This was a solid piece of standalone fantasy. I have previously read The Basilisk Throne by this same author and now want to explore more of their backlist because they write the kinds of stories I like to read.
Perhaps not the most most inventive, but at the end of the day, this one delivered the kind of fantasy that is easy to read yet engrossing. The writing is simple, but pleasing. The characters are complex enough to offer compelling motivations. Finally I enjoyed the world. It's hard to flesh out worldbuilding in only one book but I was intrigued by what I had read.
I would recommend this one to readers looking for a new fantasy to read.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Video Review https://youtu.be/OwmDitabVpI
This was a solid piece of standalone fantasy. I have previously read The Basilisk Throne by this same author and now want to explore more of their backlist because they write the kinds of stories I like to read.
Perhaps not the most most inventive, but at the end of the day, this one delivered the kind of fantasy that is easy to read yet engrossing. The writing is simple, but pleasing. The characters are complex enough to offer compelling motivations. Finally I enjoyed the world. It's hard to flesh out worldbuilding in only one book but I was intrigued by what I had read.
I would recommend this one to readers looking for a new fantasy to read.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 29, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of the ebook for an honest opinion.
I thought this was great! It's the story of a princess who marries a prince of the empire that wants to invade her homeland with the hope that this political marriage will stop them. Except she's a warrior/assassin with magic skills and a bug as a companion and when things don't turn out they way she hoped she plans to kill the eight mages and the emperor who are coordinating the attack!
I loved the characters and, despite the majority of the book being told over one night, the character development is excellent, the magic is great, the action sequences are fantastic and exciting and the lore and world building are really interesting (some of which is told as folk tales).
I would highly recommend it and, whilst it's a standalone, I hope there are more books to come in this world.
I thought this was great! It's the story of a princess who marries a prince of the empire that wants to invade her homeland with the hope that this political marriage will stop them. Except she's a warrior/assassin with magic skills and a bug as a companion and when things don't turn out they way she hoped she plans to kill the eight mages and the emperor who are coordinating the attack!
I loved the characters and, despite the majority of the book being told over one night, the character development is excellent, the magic is great, the action sequences are fantastic and exciting and the lore and world building are really interesting (some of which is told as folk tales).
I would highly recommend it and, whilst it's a standalone, I hope there are more books to come in this world.
August 13, 2024
This was one of the most confusing and chaotic books I have ever read. What I disliked, deep fantasy lovers will find fascinating, so I do recommend this book to them.
It also seems that there may be another book coming out based on this world with Yash and Chej.
Our female protagonist, Yash, changes—well, she changes sex, and I think she changes her shape, too, but because of the way this book is written, I can't be sure of that. Her 'husband' Chej, is the complete opposite of of Yash. Yash is a fighter, and I admire the fact that she is a strong female/male, but that is about all I admired in this novel.
We have time jumps galore, and some of them are interesting because they explain evolution. Mostly, though, the time jumps are annoying becuase they happen just as you really get into what is happening with Yash and Chej.
There are plenty of fight scenes and enough magic to keep those who are into deep fantasy happy.
There are so many characters that I couldn't keep straight who was a good guy and who wasn't. I stuck with this book, though, because some of it was interesting enough to keep my attention.
*ARC was supplied by the publisher Titan Books, the author, and NetGalley.
It also seems that there may be another book coming out based on this world with Yash and Chej.
Our female protagonist, Yash, changes—well, she changes sex, and I think she changes her shape, too, but because of the way this book is written, I can't be sure of that. Her 'husband' Chej, is the complete opposite of of Yash. Yash is a fighter, and I admire the fact that she is a strong female/male, but that is about all I admired in this novel.
We have time jumps galore, and some of them are interesting because they explain evolution. Mostly, though, the time jumps are annoying becuase they happen just as you really get into what is happening with Yash and Chej.
There are plenty of fight scenes and enough magic to keep those who are into deep fantasy happy.
There are so many characters that I couldn't keep straight who was a good guy and who wasn't. I stuck with this book, though, because some of it was interesting enough to keep my attention.
*ARC was supplied by the publisher Titan Books, the author, and NetGalley.
January 8, 2026
It’s always so exciting to me to be one of the first people to read a book—there are so few reviews! And honestly, this book isn’t getting enough hype.
The ending of the book hints that they may be more in this world in the future, which I am all for.
The genderfluidity of the MC is so interesting and well-written.
I loved that the romance was not the main point of the story.
The resolution at the end was unique and compassionate.
This story was a love letter to change, and had a very empathetic approach to how people learn to cope with change.
The dedication:
For Rosemary,
Or Rose by any other name.
If you like this book, I would recommend Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive, The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler, and The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh.
The ending of the book hints that they may be more in this world in the future, which I am all for.
The genderfluidity of the MC is so interesting and well-written.
I loved that the romance was not the main point of the story.
The resolution at the end was unique and compassionate.
This story was a love letter to change, and had a very empathetic approach to how people learn to cope with change.
The dedication:
For Rosemary,
Or Rose by any other name.
If you like this book, I would recommend Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive, The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler, and The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2024
Greg Keyes is one of my favourite authors so I was so excited to get an ARC of The Wind That Sweeps the Stars. It has all the elements of high fantasy and fully immersed me quickly. I will say that I am a tad biased and Keyes writing and style may not be for everyone. That said I really enjoyed this novel. I love reading about rogues, assassins and thieves particularly so I adored Yash.
The characters are all interesting and I thought well developed. Obviously, Yash was my favourite but all of them stood out and were interesting. The plot itself may sound familiar and somewhat simple, infiltrate the kingdom and take out all who stand in their way but there is a fair bit more added in by Keyes along the way.
If you do enjoy high fantasy with a bit of cloak and dagger attached this one should be a hit for you. As always thank you to Netgalley and Titan Books for the e-arc to review. My review is always honest and truthful.
The characters are all interesting and I thought well developed. Obviously, Yash was my favourite but all of them stood out and were interesting. The plot itself may sound familiar and somewhat simple, infiltrate the kingdom and take out all who stand in their way but there is a fair bit more added in by Keyes along the way.
If you do enjoy high fantasy with a bit of cloak and dagger attached this one should be a hit for you. As always thank you to Netgalley and Titan Books for the e-arc to review. My review is always honest and truthful.
August 5, 2024
Such an intriguing world! I loved the worldbuilding in this, with the monsters and the corruption of the spirits. It was so good.
I also love the changing genderfluid (literally) main character, Yash. She's amazing, very compassionate, and so determined.
The beginning of this story just sucked you in from the beginning. It was just so surprising and unexpected.
The only thing was the lore could be a little confusing, at times, along with the magic system. Other than that, a brilliant book that I blasted through.
4.5 stars rounded up
I also love the changing genderfluid (literally) main character, Yash. She's amazing, very compassionate, and so determined.
The beginning of this story just sucked you in from the beginning. It was just so surprising and unexpected.
The only thing was the lore could be a little confusing, at times, along with the magic system. Other than that, a brilliant book that I blasted through.
4.5 stars rounded up
April 30, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this unique, fast paced, action packed, mythological-fantasy.
It all happens in one night of trial and error, kill or be killed, live and let live.... and live and let die. A number of interesting characters are met throughout the tale, though the primary focus is on a body morphing humanoid seeking to bring down an evil empire that had long since sewn the seeds for its own destruction.
The tale goes through the present, past, and world lore tales, in a rather seamless fashion. It works. If anything I wanted more descriptions of world and character aesthetics, but that is probably just me being greedy for more of this world/worlds.
The story blends notions of a myriad of mythologies, cultures, religions, magics, and fantasy based human anthropology, cultural impositions, and the development of civilization from life/creation itself, through a series or worlds' evolutions, spirits, creatures, humans, and events.
The names and places feel like a blend of tribal societies with a sort of Middle Eastern-Asian-Native America-Island Tribal-etc kind of feel. (Ha! tell me I'm wrong when your tongue twists on name pronunciations or long yet perfectly sensible descriptive locations) All of it adds to the "credibility" of the fantasy world the author is creating.
⚠️ So WARNING for some of my friends ⚠️
*There is plenty of violence, as there is a war going on, and there is sacrifice, though it is not overly graphic in my opinion, and all servers to fuel the story.
*There is in one dominant culture, a male dominance over women, and severe fear and punishment of homosexuality.
*There is no actual sexual or explicit material in this book, however, persons with strong opinions or religious views that are unsupportive of hermaphrodite reality, the ability to change one's sexuality, and homosexuality, would probably not enjoy this book.
That said, I was pleasantly surprised and glad my library suggested this book in a random stand alone fantasy search, via the Libby App. I'll be checking out more books by this author.
It all happens in one night of trial and error, kill or be killed, live and let live.... and live and let die. A number of interesting characters are met throughout the tale, though the primary focus is on a body morphing humanoid seeking to bring down an evil empire that had long since sewn the seeds for its own destruction.
The tale goes through the present, past, and world lore tales, in a rather seamless fashion. It works. If anything I wanted more descriptions of world and character aesthetics, but that is probably just me being greedy for more of this world/worlds.
The story blends notions of a myriad of mythologies, cultures, religions, magics, and fantasy based human anthropology, cultural impositions, and the development of civilization from life/creation itself, through a series or worlds' evolutions, spirits, creatures, humans, and events.
The names and places feel like a blend of tribal societies with a sort of Middle Eastern-Asian-Native America-Island Tribal-etc kind of feel. (Ha! tell me I'm wrong when your tongue twists on name pronunciations or long yet perfectly sensible descriptive locations) All of it adds to the "credibility" of the fantasy world the author is creating.
⚠️ So WARNING for some of my friends ⚠️
*There is plenty of violence, as there is a war going on, and there is sacrifice, though it is not overly graphic in my opinion, and all servers to fuel the story.
*There is in one dominant culture, a male dominance over women, and severe fear and punishment of homosexuality.
*There is no actual sexual or explicit material in this book, however, persons with strong opinions or religious views that are unsupportive of hermaphrodite reality, the ability to change one's sexuality, and homosexuality, would probably not enjoy this book.
That said, I was pleasantly surprised and glad my library suggested this book in a random stand alone fantasy search, via the Libby App. I'll be checking out more books by this author.
August 20, 2024
This was a very fast paced assassination fantasy story with a very very detailed mythology and worldbuilding. We meet Yash who is married to a prince of the Empire that it turns out is invading her home country on the night of her wedding but Yash is not just a quiet princess - she is a trained assassin who has come with a mission. She begins her attack on the mages who are using their powers to aid the Empire's army while her husband Chej is a bit stunned that all of this is happening.
There are many action scenes here and a very compelling lead in Yash. The amount of time jumps and lore made the story a bit confusing at times, I would be so engrossed in the action and the scene and then it would cut to a flashback losing me so quickly.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an eArc.
There are many action scenes here and a very compelling lead in Yash. The amount of time jumps and lore made the story a bit confusing at times, I would be so engrossed in the action and the scene and then it would cut to a flashback losing me so quickly.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an eArc.
January 17, 2025
If you're familiar with the origin stories of the America's indigenous people, the way the story is constructed will resonate.
The names of characters and creatures sound equally tribal such as when the protagonist speaks to a land spirit he/she is freeing: "Your mother's clan is Nelts'eeyi and your father's clan is Tu Nelchan. The dj'ende hunters took you long ago..."
This felt more like the Fable part of Fantasy with beautiful, lyrical descriptions such as the name of the talking dragonfly that guides the Hero. Deng'jah "The big one who carries things in his basket."
There is also a good amount of conflict and well depicted fights so don't think this is just poetic story telling. The people considered Barbarians by the conquering Empire are the underestimated underdogs and the Emperor has a world-ending agenda.
The names of characters and creatures sound equally tribal such as when the protagonist speaks to a land spirit he/she is freeing: "Your mother's clan is Nelts'eeyi and your father's clan is Tu Nelchan. The dj'ende hunters took you long ago..."
This felt more like the Fable part of Fantasy with beautiful, lyrical descriptions such as the name of the talking dragonfly that guides the Hero. Deng'jah "The big one who carries things in his basket."
There is also a good amount of conflict and well depicted fights so don't think this is just poetic story telling. The people considered Barbarians by the conquering Empire are the underestimated underdogs and the Emperor has a world-ending agenda.
August 10, 2024
Yash of Zeltah is treated as a barbarian when she arrives at Honaq for her marriage to prince Chej. It's meant to avert war, but armies are already present and ready to move. Yash is an assassin, poised to defeat the masters of the nine towers and all who oppose her, even the emperor. Zeltah depends on her success.
The book opens right after the wedding ceremony; the Emperor has no intention of honoring the truce and has contrived reasons to start a war with Yash's people. But she had been training for years on various kinds of combat, as the various sorcerers had stolen spirits of the land and enslaved them to do the magical bidding of their masters to gain more power. Among the nine masters, some are allied with the Emperor, and some plan to move against him to seize the throne. On top of that, Chej is deemed a lesser prince, ready to be sacrificed for political means due to his lackluster abilities within the empire as well as the fact that he's attracted to men and therefore considered an abomination. Yash as a barbarian is also considered less than, and her own abilities would similarly mark her as an abomination within the empire.
From the start, this book is filled with action sequences. There are flashbacks that give us Yash's training and background, as well as lore and her ability to change forms. This is more than a simple war between kingdoms, but the struggle of power over the land, spirits, and heritage. We get different POV chapters to flesh out the main characters and see what's really important to them as this night of betrayal goes on. This is as much a story about mercy as it is about fighting, however. Not everyone in the fortress city is able to make decisions about war, and most have nothing to do with it. Yash at first thought she had to kill everyone, but that's an avenue almost impossible to take. Her real mission is justice and retribution, not revenge, which influences her decisions for the final battle. It's an epic story, and will definitely keep readers guessing right until the very end of the book.
The book opens right after the wedding ceremony; the Emperor has no intention of honoring the truce and has contrived reasons to start a war with Yash's people. But she had been training for years on various kinds of combat, as the various sorcerers had stolen spirits of the land and enslaved them to do the magical bidding of their masters to gain more power. Among the nine masters, some are allied with the Emperor, and some plan to move against him to seize the throne. On top of that, Chej is deemed a lesser prince, ready to be sacrificed for political means due to his lackluster abilities within the empire as well as the fact that he's attracted to men and therefore considered an abomination. Yash as a barbarian is also considered less than, and her own abilities would similarly mark her as an abomination within the empire.
From the start, this book is filled with action sequences. There are flashbacks that give us Yash's training and background, as well as lore and her ability to change forms. This is more than a simple war between kingdoms, but the struggle of power over the land, spirits, and heritage. We get different POV chapters to flesh out the main characters and see what's really important to them as this night of betrayal goes on. This is as much a story about mercy as it is about fighting, however. Not everyone in the fortress city is able to make decisions about war, and most have nothing to do with it. Yash at first thought she had to kill everyone, but that's an avenue almost impossible to take. Her real mission is justice and retribution, not revenge, which influences her decisions for the final battle. It's an epic story, and will definitely keep readers guessing right until the very end of the book.
August 16, 2024
3/5 Stars ⭐️
I was immediately drawn to “The Wind That Sweeps The Stars” by Greg Keyes due to its intriguing premise—a young female assassin, Yash, must infiltrate and overthrow the Emperor from within. Yash's character stands out, not just for her skill but also for her gender fluidity, adding a unique layer to her persona that I found both refreshing and compelling.
However, where the book began to lose me was in its lore. The story frequently jumps back in time to explain the history and mythology of this fantasy world, which, while rich and detailed, felt overwhelming at times. High fantasy enthusiasts might find this aspect more appealing, but for me, it was a bit too dense and distracting from the main narrative.
On the plus side, the fight scenes are superbly written—action-packed and vivid. But despite the thrilling battles, I found the plot to be somewhat repetitive, and delving deeper would risk spoiling the story.
Overall, “The Wind That Sweeps The Stars” is best suited for readers who enjoy poetic writing, complex lore, and don't mind names that are a bit of a tongue-twister. It's a solid read, but it might resonate more with die-hard fans of high-fantasy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC!
I was immediately drawn to “The Wind That Sweeps The Stars” by Greg Keyes due to its intriguing premise—a young female assassin, Yash, must infiltrate and overthrow the Emperor from within. Yash's character stands out, not just for her skill but also for her gender fluidity, adding a unique layer to her persona that I found both refreshing and compelling.
However, where the book began to lose me was in its lore. The story frequently jumps back in time to explain the history and mythology of this fantasy world, which, while rich and detailed, felt overwhelming at times. High fantasy enthusiasts might find this aspect more appealing, but for me, it was a bit too dense and distracting from the main narrative.
On the plus side, the fight scenes are superbly written—action-packed and vivid. But despite the thrilling battles, I found the plot to be somewhat repetitive, and delving deeper would risk spoiling the story.
Overall, “The Wind That Sweeps The Stars” is best suited for readers who enjoy poetic writing, complex lore, and don't mind names that are a bit of a tongue-twister. It's a solid read, but it might resonate more with die-hard fans of high-fantasy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC!
August 10, 2024
This was such a fascinating read and right up my alley. The worldbuilding and character development were SO unique and diverse, and I really loved how the author weaved the consequences of environmental destruction, imperialism, and revolution throughout the story.
It was almost jarring (in a good way) to step away after finishing the book (which I did in one setting because the story was truly that gripping) and realize that largely everything happened in the course of one night. It was such an immersive experience reading this book, and I laughed and cried shamelessly.
I really appreciate fantasy literature that not only undergoes the effort of presenting its reader with a new mythology to explore but roots it in relevant and real-life concerns. The consequences of conquest are something we are still grappling with today, and there are no right answers when it comes to the methods of liberation and justice. I loved the way this book explored those themes with both nuance and sensitivity.
E-ARC generously provided by Titan Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much!
It was almost jarring (in a good way) to step away after finishing the book (which I did in one setting because the story was truly that gripping) and realize that largely everything happened in the course of one night. It was such an immersive experience reading this book, and I laughed and cried shamelessly.
I really appreciate fantasy literature that not only undergoes the effort of presenting its reader with a new mythology to explore but roots it in relevant and real-life concerns. The consequences of conquest are something we are still grappling with today, and there are no right answers when it comes to the methods of liberation and justice. I loved the way this book explored those themes with both nuance and sensitivity.
E-ARC generously provided by Titan Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much!
September 29, 2025
This book takes place during one night of chaos and blood. There are flashbacks, and more to tell about the world and how these two came to be.
Yash is a barbarian princess sent to marry prince Chej to save her kingdom. But he is not all he seemed to be. Lowest of them all, and does he even like women?
But promises are broken. This kingdom never meant to respect borders. And Yash is not the princess she seems to be either. She can become male, and in her country gender and whom people love does not matter. Mostly she is an assassin. She is meant to kill the masters of the towers and set free the spirits they have imprisoned so save her homeland.
So...blood, lots of blood, lots of killing, chaos. Darkness, and she does not give up. While her new husband is the quiet kind sort, he steps up.
It is a lot, that I confess. But it is only 1 book so a lot has to happen for everything to come to an conclusion. And I liked it
Good narration. I mean there are talking bugs, monsters, lots of different people. It all works well
Yash is a barbarian princess sent to marry prince Chej to save her kingdom. But he is not all he seemed to be. Lowest of them all, and does he even like women?
But promises are broken. This kingdom never meant to respect borders. And Yash is not the princess she seems to be either. She can become male, and in her country gender and whom people love does not matter. Mostly she is an assassin. She is meant to kill the masters of the towers and set free the spirits they have imprisoned so save her homeland.
So...blood, lots of blood, lots of killing, chaos. Darkness, and she does not give up. While her new husband is the quiet kind sort, he steps up.
It is a lot, that I confess. But it is only 1 book so a lot has to happen for everything to come to an conclusion. And I liked it
Good narration. I mean there are talking bugs, monsters, lots of different people. It all works well
May 1, 2024
A very entertaining book brimming with a rich and magical history that fills the current events of the story with magic, myth and folklore.
While the story itself was a familiar one - 'barbarian' princess fated to marry a 'civilised' prince only for their wedding to be the catalyst for upheaval - the worldbuilding, magic, and monsters were rich and layered enough to really bring the central premise to life.
I was a little wary of where the marriage/romance subplot might go, and found it refreshing that Keyes didn't take the cliched way out there.
I do, however, feel sorry for the poor voice actor who is going to have to narrate ALL THOSE neologisms. I couldn't begin to pronounce several of the words and names invented for people, places, and spirits. I feel we may have reached peak "fantasy names with apostrophes in them" with The Wind That Sweeps The Stars!
While the story itself was a familiar one - 'barbarian' princess fated to marry a 'civilised' prince only for their wedding to be the catalyst for upheaval - the worldbuilding, magic, and monsters were rich and layered enough to really bring the central premise to life.
I was a little wary of where the marriage/romance subplot might go, and found it refreshing that Keyes didn't take the cliched way out there.
I do, however, feel sorry for the poor voice actor who is going to have to narrate ALL THOSE neologisms. I couldn't begin to pronounce several of the words and names invented for people, places, and spirits. I feel we may have reached peak "fantasy names with apostrophes in them" with The Wind That Sweeps The Stars!
September 8, 2024
“Keyes mixes cultures, religions, institutions and languages with rare skill… the rewards [are} enormously worthwhile.”— 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘞𝘦𝘦𝘬𝘭𝘺
🌱
No better way to start the month that with some high fantasy, action packed, strong charged FMC. This is the first book I read from this author and I am happy that this is the first one I did. Not only was I ensnared with the worldbuilding, I really liked Yash and all she stood for - loyalty to her people, wit to play the political games and leadership qualities that isn't usually seen in books.
While there were bumps on the storyline that confused me for a bit, overall I would recommend this book to those starting with high fantasy
🎉 Thank you @titanbooks for sending me a copy of this book! Check #TheWindThatSweeptheStars #GregKeyes #TitanBooks for more awesome features and reviews!
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮𝟬, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰!
🌱
No better way to start the month that with some high fantasy, action packed, strong charged FMC. This is the first book I read from this author and I am happy that this is the first one I did. Not only was I ensnared with the worldbuilding, I really liked Yash and all she stood for - loyalty to her people, wit to play the political games and leadership qualities that isn't usually seen in books.
While there were bumps on the storyline that confused me for a bit, overall I would recommend this book to those starting with high fantasy
🎉 Thank you @titanbooks for sending me a copy of this book! Check #TheWindThatSweeptheStars #GregKeyes #TitanBooks for more awesome features and reviews!
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮𝟬, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰!
August 15, 2024
3.5/5 stars.
A really inventive and unique book. Honestly, the plot was the least interesting thing about this book, but the world building and characters (really, Yash) were exceptional. The way change is a part of the world, the people, the language was so well done. I feel like I’m doing a bad job explaining this but suffice to say if you enjoy immersing yourself in fantasy cultures, you will enjoy this book.
The first chapter was a crazy good hook, and the first half of the book continued in that fashion. I will say, the climax of the book didn’t entirely hit for me. It felt a bit too smash-y.
Would happily read more adventures of Yash and her sweet husband Chej and learn more about the fascinating Beautiful/Ocean World.
A really inventive and unique book. Honestly, the plot was the least interesting thing about this book, but the world building and characters (really, Yash) were exceptional. The way change is a part of the world, the people, the language was so well done. I feel like I’m doing a bad job explaining this but suffice to say if you enjoy immersing yourself in fantasy cultures, you will enjoy this book.
The first chapter was a crazy good hook, and the first half of the book continued in that fashion. I will say, the climax of the book didn’t entirely hit for me. It felt a bit too smash-y.
Would happily read more adventures of Yash and her sweet husband Chej and learn more about the fascinating Beautiful/Ocean World.
July 11, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. This was a fast paced enjoyable read, with the events of the book occurring over a single night. If murder and mayhem are your thing, you will love this! I enjoyed how the lore of the world and Yash's backstory was told gradually at the beginning of chapters instead of info dumping in the middle of the action. I would say though that it was hard to keep track of who everyone was as there were a lot of names to remember as well as other terminology. I think this would have benefitted from a glossary. Finally, I also really liked the dynamic between Yash and Chej, it was a fresh take on the arranged/political marriage troupe.
August 8, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
Wow! I haven’t read a fantasy this unique in a while. The world-building was well fleshed out, and I appreciated the history that was provided with the world. I was captivated by the mystical creatures and the magic system.
The action sequences were fun, and I could follow them well. I also really liked Yash as a main character. Her and Chej’s relationship was a nice one.
The Wind That Sweeps The Stars is a perfect read for anyone looking to get into high fantasy with complex world-building and beautifully written language.
Thank you to Titan Books and Greg Keyes for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy.
Wow! I haven’t read a fantasy this unique in a while. The world-building was well fleshed out, and I appreciated the history that was provided with the world. I was captivated by the mystical creatures and the magic system.
The action sequences were fun, and I could follow them well. I also really liked Yash as a main character. Her and Chej’s relationship was a nice one.
The Wind That Sweeps The Stars is a perfect read for anyone looking to get into high fantasy with complex world-building and beautifully written language.
Thank you to Titan Books and Greg Keyes for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy.
October 20, 2024
If you’re a diehard fantasy fan, you might enjoy this book. There were parts that I really enjoyed (the banter of Yash and Chej for example) but also a lot of really tropey stuff that started to irritate more and more as the book wore on (why does every creature have to have a ridiculously long name? No one wants that). Overall: would I recommend this book? Not really. Would I dissuade someone from reading it? Not really.
October 31, 2024
A high fantasy according to my heart: action packed, fast paced, complex world building and fleshed out characters
Can't wait to read another story by this author
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Can't wait to read another story by this author
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
February 17, 2025
It was fine. It read very much like a movie where you get plunged into the action from the first scene. Lots of flashbacks and I'm not a fan of flashbacks. I was sort of checked out by the final boss battle.
July 29, 2024
I found this book far too confusing. Yes it has fast action scenes and a strong, if not aloof, female protagonist, but, I found it full of chaotic energy and I just could not get into the book fully.
Read
February 18, 2025Too many unpronounceable names ☹️
July 11, 2025
I was sold on this one by the end of the first chapter. Actionpacked standalone fantasy with a fascinating protagonist - enjoyed it a lot.
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