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One Wish #1
Of Stardust
“Dreams are sacred…”
At the age of twenty-six single, geeky bookseller Till Nesbitt inherits the shock of a lifetime: a huge Victorian farmhouse filled with unique tenants, and the knowledge that there is a reason she’s always been different. She’s destined to become a Fairy Godmother, because the skills are written into her DNA.
Till embarks on her fairy education at Dreams Come True University with much trepidation, guided on her journey by a unique mentor: a Celtic hybrid with a secret by the name of Gus.
When Till falls head over heels for Gus, will she break the most serious law in the Fairy Code, or will the truth of what really happened to Gus’s parents keep them from repeating history?
At the age of twenty-six single, geeky bookseller Till Nesbitt inherits the shock of a lifetime: a huge Victorian farmhouse filled with unique tenants, and the knowledge that there is a reason she’s always been different. She’s destined to become a Fairy Godmother, because the skills are written into her DNA.
Till embarks on her fairy education at Dreams Come True University with much trepidation, guided on her journey by a unique mentor: a Celtic hybrid with a secret by the name of Gus.
When Till falls head over heels for Gus, will she break the most serious law in the Fairy Code, or will the truth of what really happened to Gus’s parents keep them from repeating history?
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2013
5 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
February Grace
12 books86 followersFebruary Grace is an author, poet, and artist from Southeast Michigan. She is more than mildly obsessed with clocks, music, colors, meteor showers, and steam engines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 11, 2020
At twenty-six, Till is far from having a life of her own. She lives with her parents, works in her family's store, and has little time or opportunity for anything else. But when she's asked to help her rather mysterious great-aunt so a bit of home inventory, the dull live she was barely living suddenly becomes a lot more interesting.
She's always felt a little different than everyone else, and lately her insomnia has been getting worse and worse. But when it's all explained as part of being a fairy, she's not sure who's crazier -- her great-aunt for insisting it's true, or Till herself for humoring the old woman. Soon, though, it becomes apparent that fairy may be the only logical explanation. How else do things and people almost magically appear and disappear in an instant?
Till quickly finds herself immersed in a world unlike any she's ever known, where fairies are trained to be godmothers, where sleep never comes, and where a magical university is only a teleportation away. But becoming a fairy godmother isn't as simple as it seems, from having to learn and master her otherworldly skills to the disheartening discovery that fairies don't necessarily get a happily ever after. And when she falls for a fellow fae, she's not only giving up sleep; she may also be giving up her dreams.
I hate this story because I love it so much. And then I hate it some more. Which probably just means I love it beyond explanation. Ugh. I'm so mad that it ended! I need more and more and more of it!
Till, like any of us might be, is immediately skeptical, then shocked, and then somewhat accepting of the fate she suddenly learns is hers. The world around her isn't what she thought it was, and she soon learns that fairies walk among, interact with, and look out for humans that are none the wiser when it comes to the existence of these fantasy creatures. She doesn't suddenly come into great power or become any less human; she just becomes more fairy than she ever knew was possible. Tasked with learning what will be her "job" for life, not to mention developing and gaining control of the strange abilities she now has, Till relies heavily on the other fairies living in her great-aunt's home. The result is that she falls head over fairy dusted heels for a man she can never have.
The romance is sweet, angsty, painful, and heartwarming (hence the crazy love/hate thing I've got going on), and while I wondered when I first opened the book if it would just be too "out there" for someone with my reading tastes, I clearly had no reason to worry. I don't want to spoil anything by explaining all the reasons why I feel this way, but I can tell you that I fell a little in love with Gus myself. What I thought would be an interesting, maybe a different kind of read for me somehow had me hooked within just the first couple of chapters, and the more I read, the more I loved it.
Like a certain boy wizard the world fell in love with, Till is an otherwise normal girl who soon learns of a layer of magic within the world that till now has been utterly plain and unexciting. Her guides through the fantasy plane are other fairies, some of whom are annoying while others are downright addictive. And while the book lacks any real darkness, there's a seriousness, a weight that bears down more and more as Till realizes what she has no choice but to give up if she's ever to become someone's fairy godmother. And that may be what I love most about the story. Obviously I'm not opposed to tales of magic and fantasy, but it resonates best with me when it's woven into the world I already know. I feel like I'll be ruining the fun for other readers if I go into too much detail about how it all played out, so I think I'll just leave things like this...
Of Stardust is at once whimsical and serious, completely engaging and fantastically entertaining, and absolutely something everyone who loves a little normalcy, a little romance, and a little fantasy all combined should read right now. Me? I'll just sit back here and hope my fairy godmother grants some kind of continuation or sequel.
She's always felt a little different than everyone else, and lately her insomnia has been getting worse and worse. But when it's all explained as part of being a fairy, she's not sure who's crazier -- her great-aunt for insisting it's true, or Till herself for humoring the old woman. Soon, though, it becomes apparent that fairy may be the only logical explanation. How else do things and people almost magically appear and disappear in an instant?
Till quickly finds herself immersed in a world unlike any she's ever known, where fairies are trained to be godmothers, where sleep never comes, and where a magical university is only a teleportation away. But becoming a fairy godmother isn't as simple as it seems, from having to learn and master her otherworldly skills to the disheartening discovery that fairies don't necessarily get a happily ever after. And when she falls for a fellow fae, she's not only giving up sleep; she may also be giving up her dreams.
I hate this story because I love it so much. And then I hate it some more. Which probably just means I love it beyond explanation. Ugh. I'm so mad that it ended! I need more and more and more of it!
Till, like any of us might be, is immediately skeptical, then shocked, and then somewhat accepting of the fate she suddenly learns is hers. The world around her isn't what she thought it was, and she soon learns that fairies walk among, interact with, and look out for humans that are none the wiser when it comes to the existence of these fantasy creatures. She doesn't suddenly come into great power or become any less human; she just becomes more fairy than she ever knew was possible. Tasked with learning what will be her "job" for life, not to mention developing and gaining control of the strange abilities she now has, Till relies heavily on the other fairies living in her great-aunt's home. The result is that she falls head over fairy dusted heels for a man she can never have.
The romance is sweet, angsty, painful, and heartwarming (hence the crazy love/hate thing I've got going on), and while I wondered when I first opened the book if it would just be too "out there" for someone with my reading tastes, I clearly had no reason to worry. I don't want to spoil anything by explaining all the reasons why I feel this way, but I can tell you that I fell a little in love with Gus myself. What I thought would be an interesting, maybe a different kind of read for me somehow had me hooked within just the first couple of chapters, and the more I read, the more I loved it.
Like a certain boy wizard the world fell in love with, Till is an otherwise normal girl who soon learns of a layer of magic within the world that till now has been utterly plain and unexciting. Her guides through the fantasy plane are other fairies, some of whom are annoying while others are downright addictive. And while the book lacks any real darkness, there's a seriousness, a weight that bears down more and more as Till realizes what she has no choice but to give up if she's ever to become someone's fairy godmother. And that may be what I love most about the story. Obviously I'm not opposed to tales of magic and fantasy, but it resonates best with me when it's woven into the world I already know. I feel like I'll be ruining the fun for other readers if I go into too much detail about how it all played out, so I think I'll just leave things like this...
Of Stardust is at once whimsical and serious, completely engaging and fantastically entertaining, and absolutely something everyone who loves a little normalcy, a little romance, and a little fantasy all combined should read right now. Me? I'll just sit back here and hope my fairy godmother grants some kind of continuation or sequel.
March 5, 2014
I'm a huge fan of fairy tale themes and I couldn't let this opportunity to passed.
I must warn you that there would be some spoilers ahead.
It's not your average fairy tale stories but it is mainly about the old lady who wears a cloak and wand in hand. You got that right. It's the fairy godmother. Although in this story, it tells about Till who finds out that she is a descendent of a fairy godmother and is the next generation fairy after her Great Aunt Matilda and only she can fulfill this role. Not only is she going to be a fairy godmother but she also has to attend Dream Come True University to get her certificate and to learn how to use her powers and especially the rules and responsibilities involved. Although there is one particular rule that all fairy godmothers must follow but Till may have just broken this big time rule when she falls in love with Gus.
I got hooked to reading this book immediately. It was fun to learn about the courses of becoming an official Fairy Godmother. Of course, when Tilly was first told about she thought everyone was crazy but there seem to be too many incidents which can't be explained until she finally believes them. Although Tilly has a long rocky road ahead of her with attending the classes and her feelings for Gus. I really like Tilly's character. She may be shown off as weak but she has an inner strength which made her more endear to me. Her relationship with Gus was at a right pacing and I feel for her in wanting to reveal her feelings for Gus plus I also felt her frustrations with Gus especially when they have their sweet moments but it needed to end.
Truth be told, I forgot about the blurb of this story so I first thought it was Lane but apparently it is Gus. Though I like them more together especially when Gus helps her out even if it hurts him to be with her because he too can't do anything about his feelings for her. I really felt for them especially when I learned why they had that "Fraternizing Rule" and about Gus parents. I think his parents story was the saddest and I may have shed some tears when I read what happened to them.
Aunt Tilda was a sweet and fun old lady. Despite her having a shorter appearance on the book I really liked her. About Lane... There's a part there that I did not see coming. The explanation of that situation was short but I guessed it fitted the story. What I like most about Aunt Tilda is that even she passed away, she was able to guide Till and if not of her words of wisdom for Till, I doubt she would have gotten far and believed in herself.
I'm glad that they each can have one wish when they graduate and of course I had a feeling they would use their one wish for the other. This part was really bittersweet because although they might have their night together, their wish that involved the other would be forgotten. Tilly found this the hard way although there is more to it (just read the story because I don't want to give more spoilers) she decided there is only one thing do that would protect all of them especially Gus. I really felt for her. I was expecting a happy ending because it was a fairy tale and usually they do but the ending... Well, I just can't say anything more but it's the kind of ending that you wish there was more. And since this doesn't look like it'll be a series I was disappointed. I understand both of their decisions because it isn't only about them but also their wards.
In this book, Fairy Godmothers make dreams for others but they themselves could not dream for themselves. I actually find the price for being a fairy godmother in "Of Stardust" to be a bit harsh. Even if they love each other they can't do anything about it but move on.
I received a copy from YA Bound Book Tours for a review.
I must warn you that there would be some spoilers ahead.
It's not your average fairy tale stories but it is mainly about the old lady who wears a cloak and wand in hand. You got that right. It's the fairy godmother. Although in this story, it tells about Till who finds out that she is a descendent of a fairy godmother and is the next generation fairy after her Great Aunt Matilda and only she can fulfill this role. Not only is she going to be a fairy godmother but she also has to attend Dream Come True University to get her certificate and to learn how to use her powers and especially the rules and responsibilities involved. Although there is one particular rule that all fairy godmothers must follow but Till may have just broken this big time rule when she falls in love with Gus.
I got hooked to reading this book immediately. It was fun to learn about the courses of becoming an official Fairy Godmother. Of course, when Tilly was first told about she thought everyone was crazy but there seem to be too many incidents which can't be explained until she finally believes them. Although Tilly has a long rocky road ahead of her with attending the classes and her feelings for Gus. I really like Tilly's character. She may be shown off as weak but she has an inner strength which made her more endear to me. Her relationship with Gus was at a right pacing and I feel for her in wanting to reveal her feelings for Gus plus I also felt her frustrations with Gus especially when they have their sweet moments but it needed to end.
Truth be told, I forgot about the blurb of this story so I first thought it was Lane but apparently it is Gus. Though I like them more together especially when Gus helps her out even if it hurts him to be with her because he too can't do anything about his feelings for her. I really felt for them especially when I learned why they had that "Fraternizing Rule" and about Gus parents. I think his parents story was the saddest and I may have shed some tears when I read what happened to them.
Aunt Tilda was a sweet and fun old lady. Despite her having a shorter appearance on the book I really liked her. About Lane... There's a part there that I did not see coming. The explanation of that situation was short but I guessed it fitted the story. What I like most about Aunt Tilda is that even she passed away, she was able to guide Till and if not of her words of wisdom for Till, I doubt she would have gotten far and believed in herself.
I'm glad that they each can have one wish when they graduate and of course I had a feeling they would use their one wish for the other. This part was really bittersweet because although they might have their night together, their wish that involved the other would be forgotten. Tilly found this the hard way although there is more to it (just read the story because I don't want to give more spoilers) she decided there is only one thing do that would protect all of them especially Gus. I really felt for her. I was expecting a happy ending because it was a fairy tale and usually they do but the ending... Well, I just can't say anything more but it's the kind of ending that you wish there was more. And since this doesn't look like it'll be a series I was disappointed. I understand both of their decisions because it isn't only about them but also their wards.
In this book, Fairy Godmothers make dreams for others but they themselves could not dream for themselves. I actually find the price for being a fairy godmother in "Of Stardust" to be a bit harsh. Even if they love each other they can't do anything about it but move on.
I received a copy from YA Bound Book Tours for a review.
October 31, 2014
This wasn't a bad book, but it wasn't really the book for me, either.
When I bought this, I was under the impression that this was a contemporary fantasy with a romantic theme. It's not. It's a romance with a contemporary fantasy theme. That may sound like splitting hairs to you, but if the whole reason you're reading the book is because you want to dig into the fairy godmother side of the story and read about the magic and the godmothering, you'll probably be at least somewhat disappointed. The fantasy side of the story was relatively thin, which is too bad, because what was there was unique and interesting. But, that's entirely personal preference, so there are probably many readers who'd view that as a positive.
I confess, I didn't much care for the characters. Any of them, really. I didn't hate them, either, but... Till, the main character, starts off OK, but she's so impetuous and lovelorn and often so incredibly immature that I found it harder and harder to root for her as the story went on. Gus, Till's love interest, wasn't as unlikeable - though he did get awfully moony and angsty at times, too - but the whole premise of the story, the forbidden love between the two of them, didn't get me invested. I found myself thinking it'd be fine if they got together, but I wasn't very distraught imagining they wouldn't. And the other characters? They were pretty much just props for Till and Gus. They were flat. Oh, and good grief: so much weeping!
My last big complaint was with the very device designed to create the plot's conflict: the rule that fairies cannot hook up with each other. It was incredibly artificial. Till actually makes some counterarguments, and I kept expecting someone to address her very reasonable confusion and explain why the law exists when there are good reasons for it not to...and I never got one. That sucked all the suspension of disbelief right out of the book. It's next to impossible to feel distress over forbidden love when the whole time you're thinking, "it's a pointless rule, just break it and shut up already." It's such an obvious hole in the plot that I can only assume it was intentional...but in my opinion, whatever the author is hoping to gain from it wasn't worth the price.
I'm still giving this a solid three stars, though; I didn't hate it. It was a quick read, and a mildly entertaining one, and even though I wished more of the book would have focused on the magic and the world-building at the expense of the romance, I can't say those things were ignored, either. There was a lot of creativity in the story, even if it wasn't explored to its fullest potential. The writing itself - mechanics-wise - was pretty darn good, and I was pleased to not catch a million editing errors.
Fine literature this is not, but if you're after a quick and fluffy romance with a (small) side of fairy wonderland, you could do worse.
When I bought this, I was under the impression that this was a contemporary fantasy with a romantic theme. It's not. It's a romance with a contemporary fantasy theme. That may sound like splitting hairs to you, but if the whole reason you're reading the book is because you want to dig into the fairy godmother side of the story and read about the magic and the godmothering, you'll probably be at least somewhat disappointed. The fantasy side of the story was relatively thin, which is too bad, because what was there was unique and interesting. But, that's entirely personal preference, so there are probably many readers who'd view that as a positive.
I confess, I didn't much care for the characters. Any of them, really. I didn't hate them, either, but... Till, the main character, starts off OK, but she's so impetuous and lovelorn and often so incredibly immature that I found it harder and harder to root for her as the story went on. Gus, Till's love interest, wasn't as unlikeable - though he did get awfully moony and angsty at times, too - but the whole premise of the story, the forbidden love between the two of them, didn't get me invested. I found myself thinking it'd be fine if they got together, but I wasn't very distraught imagining they wouldn't. And the other characters? They were pretty much just props for Till and Gus. They were flat. Oh, and good grief: so much weeping!
My last big complaint was with the very device designed to create the plot's conflict: the rule that fairies cannot hook up with each other. It was incredibly artificial. Till actually makes some counterarguments, and I kept expecting someone to address her very reasonable confusion and explain why the law exists when there are good reasons for it not to...and I never got one. That sucked all the suspension of disbelief right out of the book. It's next to impossible to feel distress over forbidden love when the whole time you're thinking, "it's a pointless rule, just break it and shut up already." It's such an obvious hole in the plot that I can only assume it was intentional...but in my opinion, whatever the author is hoping to gain from it wasn't worth the price.
I'm still giving this a solid three stars, though; I didn't hate it. It was a quick read, and a mildly entertaining one, and even though I wished more of the book would have focused on the magic and the world-building at the expense of the romance, I can't say those things were ignored, either. There was a lot of creativity in the story, even if it wasn't explored to its fullest potential. The writing itself - mechanics-wise - was pretty darn good, and I was pleased to not catch a million editing errors.
Fine literature this is not, but if you're after a quick and fluffy romance with a (small) side of fairy wonderland, you could do worse.
August 21, 2014
OF STARDUST - by February Grace
Till Nesbitt is twenty-six years old still living with her parents and working in the family bookstore. Tilly often wonders where she fits in the grand scheme of things on what she really wants out of life. Christmas is upon her and she can not wait for her vacation to start. However her mother has other plans for Till. Till is to stay with her great Aunt Tilly and help her with moving some items in her grand home. What Till thought was an elderly woman is something totally different.
Till's aunt is a Fairy Godmother and before she leaves this world she wanted to tell Tilly that she is destined to follow in the Aunt's footsteps. What will Till do? Will she become a Fair Godmother or will she stay a human and continue with her mundane life?
Till Nesbitt is twenty-six years old still living with her parents and working in the family bookstore. Tilly often wonders where she fits in the grand scheme of things on what she really wants out of life. Christmas is upon her and she can not wait for her vacation to start. However her mother has other plans for Till. Till is to stay with her great Aunt Tilly and help her with moving some items in her grand home. What Till thought was an elderly woman is something totally different.
Till's aunt is a Fairy Godmother and before she leaves this world she wanted to tell Tilly that she is destined to follow in the Aunt's footsteps. What will Till do? Will she become a Fair Godmother or will she stay a human and continue with her mundane life?
March 10, 2014
“Twenty-six…and I still work in my parent’s bookshop… and I still live in their home. What in the world am I doing with my life?”—Till
Till has been steadily living her humdrum life, waiting for it to begin. She never would have imagined that connecting with her mysterious Aunt Tilda would introduce her to the impossible. Till gets to live in her own personal fairy tale—as a fairy godmother. But it’s not all star dust and coaches out of pumpkins. There are rules that must be followed, and when Till falls for her friend, she’ll have to decide if breaking the rules is worth ending her tale before it even begins…
“You’ll realize that this was the day your life really began.”—Aunt Tilda
I absolutely love fairy tales and fairy tale retellings, so there was no way I could resist reading a story from the fairy godmothers’ perspective! I didn’t connect with the story as much as I thought I would although it was an interesting story. While it has fun moments with the stereotypical fairy god mother things like couture and carriages, the fairy god parents in this story are more like guardian angels where they help guide their charges in today’s modern world. In fact, they even poke fun that guardian angels get the credit for fairy god parents’ work!
Till is a sweet combination of naive and insecure while dedicated and a fighter for what she believes is right. She’s a lovely person, and I did like reading what it was like entering the fairy god parent life through her perspective. I got a kick that there’s a fairy god parent university where all newbie fairy god parents must go through a year of training. We get to witness her transformation from a normal human to a new fairy god parent graduate over the course of a year. We also get to see a very sweet yet tragically forbidden romance progress from a simple friendship to something more in a very believable way.
While I mostly enjoyed the story, I did not understand the major plot point where fairies cannot be with other fairies. I still don’t get it after reading the book. Till doesn’t get it and frankly, I’m not sure if any of the other fairies know why that rule exists either. One thing’s for certain: what an absolutely silly rule! I’m not sure if this is the start of a series, but if it is, I hope that mystery gets answered, because other than a major plot point keeping our leads apart and adding major emotion to the story, it makes no sense. Thankfully, Till points that out so I’m hoping there’s something more to that rule and not just a hand-waving foil.
Overall, it’s a sweet book (low heat rating on the romance scale) that reads like a fairy tale, and I adored the characters by the end. As for the end itself, I can only guess that the author was going for a ending with hope for the future with a positive outlook, but to me, it felt bittersweet and made me feel a bit down and disappointed in the resolution. I can only hope for more books to continue the story, especially to see how Till deals with her new charges and romance now that she’s a full-fledged fairy godmother! This is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Till has been steadily living her humdrum life, waiting for it to begin. She never would have imagined that connecting with her mysterious Aunt Tilda would introduce her to the impossible. Till gets to live in her own personal fairy tale—as a fairy godmother. But it’s not all star dust and coaches out of pumpkins. There are rules that must be followed, and when Till falls for her friend, she’ll have to decide if breaking the rules is worth ending her tale before it even begins…
“You’ll realize that this was the day your life really began.”—Aunt Tilda
I absolutely love fairy tales and fairy tale retellings, so there was no way I could resist reading a story from the fairy godmothers’ perspective! I didn’t connect with the story as much as I thought I would although it was an interesting story. While it has fun moments with the stereotypical fairy god mother things like couture and carriages, the fairy god parents in this story are more like guardian angels where they help guide their charges in today’s modern world. In fact, they even poke fun that guardian angels get the credit for fairy god parents’ work!
Till is a sweet combination of naive and insecure while dedicated and a fighter for what she believes is right. She’s a lovely person, and I did like reading what it was like entering the fairy god parent life through her perspective. I got a kick that there’s a fairy god parent university where all newbie fairy god parents must go through a year of training. We get to witness her transformation from a normal human to a new fairy god parent graduate over the course of a year. We also get to see a very sweet yet tragically forbidden romance progress from a simple friendship to something more in a very believable way.
While I mostly enjoyed the story, I did not understand the major plot point where fairies cannot be with other fairies. I still don’t get it after reading the book. Till doesn’t get it and frankly, I’m not sure if any of the other fairies know why that rule exists either. One thing’s for certain: what an absolutely silly rule! I’m not sure if this is the start of a series, but if it is, I hope that mystery gets answered, because other than a major plot point keeping our leads apart and adding major emotion to the story, it makes no sense. Thankfully, Till points that out so I’m hoping there’s something more to that rule and not just a hand-waving foil.
Overall, it’s a sweet book (low heat rating on the romance scale) that reads like a fairy tale, and I adored the characters by the end. As for the end itself, I can only guess that the author was going for a ending with hope for the future with a positive outlook, but to me, it felt bittersweet and made me feel a bit down and disappointed in the resolution. I can only hope for more books to continue the story, especially to see how Till deals with her new charges and romance now that she’s a full-fledged fairy godmother! This is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
May 5, 2015
I'm still debating between four and five stars, but I'll just put four for now. This book was different and original, and I really enjoyed reading it! This book was really big on self-sacrifice, and it was nice seeing that in books! Full review to come soon! :)
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I admit I was kind of skeptic about signing up for the tour when I first saw this. I have loved stories like this when I was younger, but I now prefer fairytale retellings of the more known fairytales like Rapunzel, Cinderella, and the likes. Also, I now prefer reading contemporary romance over fantasy. But then I thought, what do I have to lose if I didn't like this? So then I signed up, and boy was I glad I did!
Of Stardust is a unique tale of Till Nesbit, a twenty-six-year-old girl who was born to become a fairy godmother. At first, Till was confused and chose to deny the sign, even though she knew deep in her heart that what Aunt Tilda was telling her was true. But then after Aunt Tilda's death, she learned to accept who she is because she didn't want to disappoint her aunt. The tenants of the house are all relying on her as well.
After the acceptance, Till attended Dreams Come True University(DCTU), and there she slowly learned the things about becoming a fairy godmother. The number one most important rule? No fraternizing with other fairies. But as she spends time with the Celtic hybrid Gus with secrets to keep, she finds it hard not to break this rule.
Till entering DCTU was like a teenager attending college for the first time. She felt lost and confused the first few days, and that made me realize that even adults get lost sometimes. There were a lot of things that Till didn't know about the fairy world, and had to rely on someone to help her understand.
Being a fairy, Till has to sacrifice a lot of things. She can't dream, she can get drunk on hot chocolate, she can't fraternize with other fairies, and so on. At first she questions being a fairy, but in the end she accepted all her responsibilities and decided that it was all worth it, if she could help someone.
"She didn't know exactly what that would entail yet. But there was a reason that this particular child needed her to be its guardian angel. Till knew that she was sworn in her heart to fulfill that role." -Till
"They're the reason we are who we are and the reason to accept what we can never be" -Gus
This book was big on self-sacrifice, and for that I liked the book even more. I believe that self-sacrifice in this manner is lacking in most of the books that I read nowadays, and I would definitely want to see more of it. As much as I didn't really like the ending, I knew that that's how things were supposed to be, and in turn I learned to accept the things as they are in my life now. Maybe like in the situation of Gus and Till, this has a purpose behind, and I just don't know it yet, just as Till didn't understand when Aunt Tilda told her about it.
Original and different, I would certainly recommend for anyone who is interested to give it a shot! Not only is it a story about love, but also about sacrifices and understanding.
-------------------------------
I admit I was kind of skeptic about signing up for the tour when I first saw this. I have loved stories like this when I was younger, but I now prefer fairytale retellings of the more known fairytales like Rapunzel, Cinderella, and the likes. Also, I now prefer reading contemporary romance over fantasy. But then I thought, what do I have to lose if I didn't like this? So then I signed up, and boy was I glad I did!
Of Stardust is a unique tale of Till Nesbit, a twenty-six-year-old girl who was born to become a fairy godmother. At first, Till was confused and chose to deny the sign, even though she knew deep in her heart that what Aunt Tilda was telling her was true. But then after Aunt Tilda's death, she learned to accept who she is because she didn't want to disappoint her aunt. The tenants of the house are all relying on her as well.
After the acceptance, Till attended Dreams Come True University(DCTU), and there she slowly learned the things about becoming a fairy godmother. The number one most important rule? No fraternizing with other fairies. But as she spends time with the Celtic hybrid Gus with secrets to keep, she finds it hard not to break this rule.
Till entering DCTU was like a teenager attending college for the first time. She felt lost and confused the first few days, and that made me realize that even adults get lost sometimes. There were a lot of things that Till didn't know about the fairy world, and had to rely on someone to help her understand.
Being a fairy, Till has to sacrifice a lot of things. She can't dream, she can get drunk on hot chocolate, she can't fraternize with other fairies, and so on. At first she questions being a fairy, but in the end she accepted all her responsibilities and decided that it was all worth it, if she could help someone.
"She didn't know exactly what that would entail yet. But there was a reason that this particular child needed her to be its guardian angel. Till knew that she was sworn in her heart to fulfill that role." -Till
"They're the reason we are who we are and the reason to accept what we can never be" -Gus
This book was big on self-sacrifice, and for that I liked the book even more. I believe that self-sacrifice in this manner is lacking in most of the books that I read nowadays, and I would definitely want to see more of it. As much as I didn't really like the ending, I knew that that's how things were supposed to be, and in turn I learned to accept the things as they are in my life now. Maybe like in the situation of Gus and Till, this has a purpose behind, and I just don't know it yet, just as Till didn't understand when Aunt Tilda told her about it.
Original and different, I would certainly recommend for anyone who is interested to give it a shot! Not only is it a story about love, but also about sacrifices and understanding.
June 8, 2014
This review and many others can be found on my blog - Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Of Stardust is a sweet paranormal romance with a unique concept. I had never read a book about fairy godmothers before, so I was excited to read it. It just seemed like such a fun idea!
The negatives:
Wanted more magic.
While I loved the romance in this book, I wish that there had been a bit more of a focus on Till's education as a fairy godmother, rather than on the romance. (Or maybe the same amount of romance, but with more of the magic in between - so the book would have been a bit longer). I loved the idea of Till's powers and how they manifested - there were cute references to changing pumpkins into carriages and learning how to design ball gowns, but I would have liked even more of this!
No fairy fraternizing rule.
I wish it had been explained a bit more why fairy godmothers weren't allowed to be in relationships. The fact that this was forbidden was a huge part of the story, but the reasoning was never really explained.
What I loved:
Till and Gus.
Till and Gus were very sweet together. Gus was one of the most endearing book boyfriends I've read about in quite a while - he was sweet and caring and pretty much adorable (and that accent made me swoon a little, I have to admit). But Gus also knew how a relationship between fairies could turn painful - he had experienced it with his own parents. So he was realistically cautious, trying his hardest not to fall for Till or to allow her to fall in love with him and get hurt in the process. Of course, it didn't work out that way. Till had never really believed that she would find romance. When her world was turned upside down with the news that she was a fairy godmother, love was really not at the top of her list of concerns. So the relationship between Gus and Till grew slowly, moving from friendship to romance. I loved this! I truly felt a connection between the two characters as best friends, which made me root for them all the more as a couple!
Fairy godmothering.
The whole concept of being a fairy godmother (or godfather) was just too much fun! But I also loved how seriously they took their jobs. Gus' dedication to his charges was just one more of his incredibly endearing qualities, and I loved how he showed Till the true importance of their work. The people that they were assigned to depended on them. So, I loved seeing both the fun, whimsical side to the job and the more serious aspect to it as well!
This was a really fun paranormal romance, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series to find out what happens between Till and Gus. I've already purchased the next book (which came out at the end of April), so watch for an upcoming review! I give this one 4/5 stars.
Of Stardust is a sweet paranormal romance with a unique concept. I had never read a book about fairy godmothers before, so I was excited to read it. It just seemed like such a fun idea!
The negatives:
Wanted more magic.
While I loved the romance in this book, I wish that there had been a bit more of a focus on Till's education as a fairy godmother, rather than on the romance. (Or maybe the same amount of romance, but with more of the magic in between - so the book would have been a bit longer). I loved the idea of Till's powers and how they manifested - there were cute references to changing pumpkins into carriages and learning how to design ball gowns, but I would have liked even more of this!
No fairy fraternizing rule.
I wish it had been explained a bit more why fairy godmothers weren't allowed to be in relationships. The fact that this was forbidden was a huge part of the story, but the reasoning was never really explained.
What I loved:
Till and Gus.
Till and Gus were very sweet together. Gus was one of the most endearing book boyfriends I've read about in quite a while - he was sweet and caring and pretty much adorable (and that accent made me swoon a little, I have to admit). But Gus also knew how a relationship between fairies could turn painful - he had experienced it with his own parents. So he was realistically cautious, trying his hardest not to fall for Till or to allow her to fall in love with him and get hurt in the process. Of course, it didn't work out that way. Till had never really believed that she would find romance. When her world was turned upside down with the news that she was a fairy godmother, love was really not at the top of her list of concerns. So the relationship between Gus and Till grew slowly, moving from friendship to romance. I loved this! I truly felt a connection between the two characters as best friends, which made me root for them all the more as a couple!
Fairy godmothering.
The whole concept of being a fairy godmother (or godfather) was just too much fun! But I also loved how seriously they took their jobs. Gus' dedication to his charges was just one more of his incredibly endearing qualities, and I loved how he showed Till the true importance of their work. The people that they were assigned to depended on them. So, I loved seeing both the fun, whimsical side to the job and the more serious aspect to it as well!
This was a really fun paranormal romance, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series to find out what happens between Till and Gus. I've already purchased the next book (which came out at the end of April), so watch for an upcoming review! I give this one 4/5 stars.
January 4, 2015
I have always and will forever love books about Fairies living among us. Though many such books have disappointed me in the past Of Stardust did not let me down. February Grace's protagonist, Till, is a girl after my own heart. 26 years old and still living with her parents and working in their bookshop she feels that her life has stagnated. She has no clue as to what her purpose is or what she has to offer the world. Until she is summoned to the home of her Great Aunt Tilda (her namesake) that is. That's when the bombshell is dropped, she is a Fairy Godmother. I loved that Till was a skeptic about the whole "Fairy Godmother" destiny. With no proof and living in a world where magic is constantly heralded as an impossibility who wouldn't be skeptical when they were told that not only did magic exist but they themselves were magical. (Well I wouldn't be, but I'm one of the few!) As Till's tale moves forward Grace does a phenomenal job of fitting the fairy world into our own. How do fairies do their job and maintain a job that helps them blend in to the world? Well they don't sleep of course! And while that sounds awesome (think how much you could get done with 24 hrs a day available to you) Grace also is sure to point out the disadvantages of such a situation. Without sleep there is no chance to dream. One of the biggest disadvantages of being a Fairy Godmother, though not the biggest disadvantage. The biggest disadvantage is that Fairies Godparents must remain celibate forever and with a life span of 300 years or more that can make a Fairies lifetime one that is very sad and lonely. I loved the fact that Till continually voiced her disagreement with such a rule. With the fairy line dying out she points out that the only way to create more fairies is to procreate with other fairies. How can you not fall in love with a character that voices her opinion repeatedly consequences be damned? And how could Till not voice her opinions when she finds herself falling in love? The romance that blossoms between Till and her tenant Gus is wonderful. Forever denying themselves that which they want the most to fulfill their destinies is heart-achingly beautiful. At times their heartache brought tears to my eyes. You want to root for them. You want them to find some loophole that will allow them to be together for good, not live and work together side by side without ever obtaining the one thing their hearts cry for loudest and most persistently. Of Stardust is a wonderful book for all ages. Lovers of magic and romance will find themselves swept away in this delightful novel.
March 5, 2014
As you may know, I rarely read the synopsis of a book before reading it. It’s usually the cover of a book or referral from another reader, if not by an author that I’m already obsessed with, that gets me to add books to my overwhelming TBR pile. Occasionally I’ll read the first line or two, but that’s usually the extent of it. I don’t want my reading experience ruined by learning too much from the blurb. As soon as I saw the cover for Of Stardust I added it to my “to read” list on Goodreads. There’s something about that shade of blue that gets me every time. When the email came around for the blog tour I felt an overwhelming urge to sign up. So here I am!
Now is probably the time I should openly admit that I’ve never been the biggest fan of traditional fairy tales. It’s probably not normal, but that’s who I am. I do love fantasy and all things magical, and I enjoy watching certain movies with my daughters, but I’ve never really gotten into reading fairy tale type stories in my bookish adventures. When it came up in my queue as the next book in line for review, I decided to skim the synopsis a bit before cracking it open. When the words Fairy Godmother jumped off the page at me, I felt a rush of disappointment wash over me. Really? Fairy Godmothers? That’s just not my thing. No, I don’t like Cinderella — call me crazy if you must. My view on the subject changed very quickly after starting the book, though. I was only about four pages in when Till’s story grabbed hold of me and the next thing I knew I was done reading the book… and I WAS PLEASED!
Of Stardust is a tale filled with engaging characters and magical moments that made me forget I was reading a book. The main character, Till, is concerned about where her life is going. She’s twenty-six years old, working at her parents bookstore and still living in their house. She feels like her life is passing her by… until her Great Aunt Tilda summons her to help sort out some things at her home. Till is a bit reluctant since she’s only met her aunt once in her life, but what else does she have to do over her Christmas holiday? When Till arrives at the home of her Great Aunt Tilda, she has no idea her life is about to change forever. Her life hasn’t passed her by at all. In fact it’s just about to get started…
I recommend Of Stardust to fans of all things magical and romantic. This story will sweep you off your feet when you least expect it!
Now is probably the time I should openly admit that I’ve never been the biggest fan of traditional fairy tales. It’s probably not normal, but that’s who I am. I do love fantasy and all things magical, and I enjoy watching certain movies with my daughters, but I’ve never really gotten into reading fairy tale type stories in my bookish adventures. When it came up in my queue as the next book in line for review, I decided to skim the synopsis a bit before cracking it open. When the words Fairy Godmother jumped off the page at me, I felt a rush of disappointment wash over me. Really? Fairy Godmothers? That’s just not my thing. No, I don’t like Cinderella — call me crazy if you must. My view on the subject changed very quickly after starting the book, though. I was only about four pages in when Till’s story grabbed hold of me and the next thing I knew I was done reading the book… and I WAS PLEASED!
Of Stardust is a tale filled with engaging characters and magical moments that made me forget I was reading a book. The main character, Till, is concerned about where her life is going. She’s twenty-six years old, working at her parents bookstore and still living in their house. She feels like her life is passing her by… until her Great Aunt Tilda summons her to help sort out some things at her home. Till is a bit reluctant since she’s only met her aunt once in her life, but what else does she have to do over her Christmas holiday? When Till arrives at the home of her Great Aunt Tilda, she has no idea her life is about to change forever. Her life hasn’t passed her by at all. In fact it’s just about to get started…
I recommend Of Stardust to fans of all things magical and romantic. This story will sweep you off your feet when you least expect it!
March 6, 2014
Of Stardust
“Remember your One Wish. Use it wisely, to have something, some small part of him to hold on to as your own – a moment sealed in time, one perfect memory that you will have to live on for the rest of your life. For the love of all that’s good, young woman, make your One Wish count.” –Aunt Tilda, Of Stardust
Of Stardust follows geeky bookstore clerk Till Nesbitt as she tries to find her place in the world, thinking there’s nowhere she belongs, when in reality she belongs to a world where fairy godmothers exist. Oh yeah, and she is one!
February Grace did a really nice job of creating a unique plot and with a multitude of different levels. I really enjoyed how the fairy godding world was in our world, but not. How you simply had to shift your way of thinking to get to the special fairy university to train and get your certificate. I thought that was a really nice touch.
I also enjoyed how strict the whole fairy godmother thing was. No fraternizing! Crazy rule, but after hearing what happening with a pair of fairy godparents I can see why they many have the rule in place. One of my favorite things though was the one wish that they each got.
What I didn’t love was how slow paced the story was. The plot is good and it’s well written, but I felt like the beginning was really rushed and the rest of the book was super drawn out. I would have liked to know more about her great aunt and I would have liked the revelation of what she was to not be so sudden.
The bulk of the book took place while Tilly was going to the university and things like that and honestly I could have done without some of that. I really enjoyed Tilly’s character also, but I didn’t love Gus. I’m not sure why, I just couldn’t really connect to him.
Overall, the story told was good and there were parts that were sweet and funny and other parts, like with her great aunts book with the appearing text, that made me a bit teary eyed. And I would recommend it for the experience of the actual story, but I’m not sure I’d read it again.
“Remember your One Wish. Use it wisely, to have something, some small part of him to hold on to as your own – a moment sealed in time, one perfect memory that you will have to live on for the rest of your life. For the love of all that’s good, young woman, make your One Wish count.” –Aunt Tilda, Of Stardust
Of Stardust follows geeky bookstore clerk Till Nesbitt as she tries to find her place in the world, thinking there’s nowhere she belongs, when in reality she belongs to a world where fairy godmothers exist. Oh yeah, and she is one!
February Grace did a really nice job of creating a unique plot and with a multitude of different levels. I really enjoyed how the fairy godding world was in our world, but not. How you simply had to shift your way of thinking to get to the special fairy university to train and get your certificate. I thought that was a really nice touch.
I also enjoyed how strict the whole fairy godmother thing was. No fraternizing! Crazy rule, but after hearing what happening with a pair of fairy godparents I can see why they many have the rule in place. One of my favorite things though was the one wish that they each got.
What I didn’t love was how slow paced the story was. The plot is good and it’s well written, but I felt like the beginning was really rushed and the rest of the book was super drawn out. I would have liked to know more about her great aunt and I would have liked the revelation of what she was to not be so sudden.
The bulk of the book took place while Tilly was going to the university and things like that and honestly I could have done without some of that. I really enjoyed Tilly’s character also, but I didn’t love Gus. I’m not sure why, I just couldn’t really connect to him.
Overall, the story told was good and there were parts that were sweet and funny and other parts, like with her great aunts book with the appearing text, that made me a bit teary eyed. And I would recommend it for the experience of the actual story, but I’m not sure I’d read it again.
October 7, 2014
I received this book the author and from Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock.
Till was an average 26 year old. College graduate, gainfully employed, albeit at the families bookstore, and living in her parents attic she is still trying to figure out who she is and where she fits into the world. Right before Christmas her mom asks a favor of her, will she go to her great aunt Tilda's house and help her inventory her library? Though she is named after this woman she only ever recalls meeting her once, at her 6th birthday party. Her love of books has her excited to get into the library but she is a bit apprehensive as well because she doesn't know what to expect. When she gets there she finds a houseful of very interesting people and at the center a very quirky woman who she grows quickly fond of. She discovers the real reason she was asked to come help out. Tilda is soon to pass on and she wanted to share who and what she was...and enlighten Till as to who and What she was becoming. Though Till has a very hard time believing it at first she soon finds out Great Aunt Tilda was an honest to goodness Fairy Godmother and as it turns out Till is her direct decedent, the only one in the family that got the fairy genes. Armed with a very special book her Aunt Tilda left her and Gus, a fellow Fairy Godparent, Till jumps right in to this new and exciting world. She goes to Dreams Come True University and the first and most important rule she is taught, and questions, is that Fairies shall under no circumstance fraternize with ANYONE. As life moves on day by day that one rule gets harder and harder to understand...and follow. She starts to fall in love, unexpectedly but it happens.
I really loved this book, it kept me hooked right from the beginning. Till is very relate able and you want to see her get her very own happy ending, not just have to help everyone else get theirs. You will have to pick up the book and read it to see what happens next. Wonderfully written, very detailed, go get the book :)
I am rating this a 5 out of 5 fangs
Till was an average 26 year old. College graduate, gainfully employed, albeit at the families bookstore, and living in her parents attic she is still trying to figure out who she is and where she fits into the world. Right before Christmas her mom asks a favor of her, will she go to her great aunt Tilda's house and help her inventory her library? Though she is named after this woman she only ever recalls meeting her once, at her 6th birthday party. Her love of books has her excited to get into the library but she is a bit apprehensive as well because she doesn't know what to expect. When she gets there she finds a houseful of very interesting people and at the center a very quirky woman who she grows quickly fond of. She discovers the real reason she was asked to come help out. Tilda is soon to pass on and she wanted to share who and what she was...and enlighten Till as to who and What she was becoming. Though Till has a very hard time believing it at first she soon finds out Great Aunt Tilda was an honest to goodness Fairy Godmother and as it turns out Till is her direct decedent, the only one in the family that got the fairy genes. Armed with a very special book her Aunt Tilda left her and Gus, a fellow Fairy Godparent, Till jumps right in to this new and exciting world. She goes to Dreams Come True University and the first and most important rule she is taught, and questions, is that Fairies shall under no circumstance fraternize with ANYONE. As life moves on day by day that one rule gets harder and harder to understand...and follow. She starts to fall in love, unexpectedly but it happens.
I really loved this book, it kept me hooked right from the beginning. Till is very relate able and you want to see her get her very own happy ending, not just have to help everyone else get theirs. You will have to pick up the book and read it to see what happens next. Wonderfully written, very detailed, go get the book :)
I am rating this a 5 out of 5 fangs
February 20, 2014
*I received a free copy for an honest review*
Till Nesbitt was shocked to have inherited her Great Aunt's estate and "everything" that goes with it. Till comes to learn quite a bit about her mysterious Great Aunt...and more! Yup! She's more than just a normal human being...she's a Fairy Godmother! From the moment she learns what she really is and meets others like her, especially her mentor, Gus, she embarks on a difficult journey of learning who and what she is. Till then starts the rigorous schooling and training at DCTU, and learns what is involved and how to be a Fairy Godparent. Balancing her human life and fairy life takes it's toll on Till making her question and doubt herself. With Gus as her mentor, he guides her through it.
Till is faced with a struggle that will inevitably force her to make sacrifices. With every turn of the page, Till's emotional turmoil becomes a burden that she knows she will have to carry alone for her charge(s) and for the one she loves.
When I came to the end of this book, I ended the story with tears in my eyes, a smile on my face and a sigh. I loved the forbidden love theme, especially that it wasn't a tragic love story...difficult, but not tragic. I thoroughly enjoyed the world that February Grace created involving the every day life of Fairy Godparents. As for her character building, I was so enthralled that her characters has so much depth that I felt like I REALLY got to know each of her characters, especially Till. I loved that it wasn't a "love at first sight" type of romance. I loved that the romance was building at a good pace throughout the story. And...that ending! What a heart-wrenching ending! It just tore at my heart!
I feel another story has to be written...continuing Gus and Till's journey! If so, I would so be reading it...hahaha!
Of Stardust is an amazing story of one girl learning of a life that is so mystical and magical that even that can be a struggle.
Till Nesbitt was shocked to have inherited her Great Aunt's estate and "everything" that goes with it. Till comes to learn quite a bit about her mysterious Great Aunt...and more! Yup! She's more than just a normal human being...she's a Fairy Godmother! From the moment she learns what she really is and meets others like her, especially her mentor, Gus, she embarks on a difficult journey of learning who and what she is. Till then starts the rigorous schooling and training at DCTU, and learns what is involved and how to be a Fairy Godparent. Balancing her human life and fairy life takes it's toll on Till making her question and doubt herself. With Gus as her mentor, he guides her through it.
Till is faced with a struggle that will inevitably force her to make sacrifices. With every turn of the page, Till's emotional turmoil becomes a burden that she knows she will have to carry alone for her charge(s) and for the one she loves.
When I came to the end of this book, I ended the story with tears in my eyes, a smile on my face and a sigh. I loved the forbidden love theme, especially that it wasn't a tragic love story...difficult, but not tragic. I thoroughly enjoyed the world that February Grace created involving the every day life of Fairy Godparents. As for her character building, I was so enthralled that her characters has so much depth that I felt like I REALLY got to know each of her characters, especially Till. I loved that it wasn't a "love at first sight" type of romance. I loved that the romance was building at a good pace throughout the story. And...that ending! What a heart-wrenching ending! It just tore at my heart!
I feel another story has to be written...continuing Gus and Till's journey! If so, I would so be reading it...hahaha!
Of Stardust is an amazing story of one girl learning of a life that is so mystical and magical that even that can be a struggle.
March 8, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Of Stardust is a light urban fantasy with a lot of magic and roots in fairy tales. Cute, humorous, and fun all come to mind when I think of this novel. That's not to say there aren't heartbreaking moments. There were several times I cried while reading. When I first started the novel, I kept picturing Cosmo and Wanda from Fairly Oddparents whenever Ms. Grace mentioned the word fairy godparent. Picturing Till as Wanda and Gus as Cosmo made me laugh.
Till is blindsided by her Great Aunt Tilda. In just a few days, she learns she has a recessive gene that makes her a fairy godmother. She learns magic exists and then she loses her aunt. I loved the scenes with Till at University, they were quite amusing. I have to admit, I was thrown when Till learns the number one fairy godparent rule: Fairies do not fraternize... with anyone. Till doesn't handle the idea of being celibate well, I mean who would?
Gus knows far too well the penalty for breaking the most important rule. He witnessed the sorrow and pain his parents went through after he was born. The budding relationship between Gus and Till is sweet and rather tragic. It must be awful to fall for someone you can never be with. Wonderful moments with the people they help are woven with realizations about what they'll never experience themselves.
This story is heart wrenching and heart warming at the same time. It's beautiful the way Till and all other fairy godparents are willing to sacrifice so much to bring a bit of happiness to their charges. It seems ridiculous that fairies create happy endings for so many people but are denied one themselves. I can't help but wonder if that will change in the future. This stagnant world of fairies seems ripe for change. If you like fantasies and fairy tales, be sure to add Of Stardust to your TBR list.
Of Stardust is a light urban fantasy with a lot of magic and roots in fairy tales. Cute, humorous, and fun all come to mind when I think of this novel. That's not to say there aren't heartbreaking moments. There were several times I cried while reading. When I first started the novel, I kept picturing Cosmo and Wanda from Fairly Oddparents whenever Ms. Grace mentioned the word fairy godparent. Picturing Till as Wanda and Gus as Cosmo made me laugh.
Till is blindsided by her Great Aunt Tilda. In just a few days, she learns she has a recessive gene that makes her a fairy godmother. She learns magic exists and then she loses her aunt. I loved the scenes with Till at University, they were quite amusing. I have to admit, I was thrown when Till learns the number one fairy godparent rule: Fairies do not fraternize... with anyone. Till doesn't handle the idea of being celibate well, I mean who would?
Gus knows far too well the penalty for breaking the most important rule. He witnessed the sorrow and pain his parents went through after he was born. The budding relationship between Gus and Till is sweet and rather tragic. It must be awful to fall for someone you can never be with. Wonderful moments with the people they help are woven with realizations about what they'll never experience themselves.
This story is heart wrenching and heart warming at the same time. It's beautiful the way Till and all other fairy godparents are willing to sacrifice so much to bring a bit of happiness to their charges. It seems ridiculous that fairies create happy endings for so many people but are denied one themselves. I can't help but wonder if that will change in the future. This stagnant world of fairies seems ripe for change. If you like fantasies and fairy tales, be sure to add Of Stardust to your TBR list.
January 5, 2015
When I first saw this book, I almost didn't read it because of the authors name. I thought it sounded like too affected of a pseudonym (if that is a real name, I'm sorry)and didn't know if I'd like the book, though the plot sounded cute.
But, as you see by my 4 star rating, I really did like this book. The large part of it, is a slow romance. And I think the author took their time in letting it build, creating an actual love story, you know why the characters like each other, you know what they have in common, the little details and scenes that led to it. Which is a complaint I have with a lot of other books, where physical chemistry is instant, and you read about their eyes, and their ripped muscular bodies way more then you read about any redeeming values they may have. The attraction is instant, and intense, but there isn't an actual substance to it, made up of sweet tiny moments and gestures.
The character Till is likable. I think she could possibly have a little fuller of a personality. It came through clear in the writing, she was relatable, generally, but didn't have any quirks, or really any vices, or really any passions Pre-Fairy-Godparenting. Most people I know aren't quite that ordinary.
The Fairy school is funny, they have funny classes based out of fairy tales, and the book has some humorous escapades, though the romance is definitely the focus.
The ending, lacked...an ending. I mean the words stopped, and it ended. But there wasn't much of a climax, not that I want every author to leave a cliff-hanger as a ploy to get me to read the sequel. But I felt a little bewildered at the end, it was a short summation of the issues at hand, but it didn't resonate with me.
But, as you see by my 4 star rating, I really did like this book. The large part of it, is a slow romance. And I think the author took their time in letting it build, creating an actual love story, you know why the characters like each other, you know what they have in common, the little details and scenes that led to it. Which is a complaint I have with a lot of other books, where physical chemistry is instant, and you read about their eyes, and their ripped muscular bodies way more then you read about any redeeming values they may have. The attraction is instant, and intense, but there isn't an actual substance to it, made up of sweet tiny moments and gestures.
The character Till is likable. I think she could possibly have a little fuller of a personality. It came through clear in the writing, she was relatable, generally, but didn't have any quirks, or really any vices, or really any passions Pre-Fairy-Godparenting. Most people I know aren't quite that ordinary.
The Fairy school is funny, they have funny classes based out of fairy tales, and the book has some humorous escapades, though the romance is definitely the focus.
The ending, lacked...an ending. I mean the words stopped, and it ended. But there wasn't much of a climax, not that I want every author to leave a cliff-hanger as a ploy to get me to read the sequel. But I felt a little bewildered at the end, it was a short summation of the issues at hand, but it didn't resonate with me.
September 24, 2014
I found this book very interesting. It was a kind of YA urban fantasy with a slow building romance. The concept was really lively and original and I loved the sense of humour.
My only criticism is the protagonist, Till. She felt a little flat as a character, and when you’re dealing with large personalities such as fairies and other supernatural beings, well, the main character needs to have more than 2 dimensions. I felt (and this is just my own opinion) that she was an absent character going through the motions. I think that maybe if it was changed to first person narrative then Till could have shone a bit more and the reader perhaps bonded quicker with her.
From a writer’s perspective, it was beautifully written and had some very funny moments in – fairy college in particular was a great concept – although there were a handful of cliches in there: forbidden love, the suddenly realising you’re a supernatural being, going off for training etc. To be fair to the author though, there really aren’t many things left in this genre that haven’t been done before and we all love these stories for a reason; so they really needed to be in there.
The front cover feels a little cheap, and really isn’t going to stand out amongst the more artistic covers that tend to draw in the teen reader – a shame really as they are missing out if they don’t read it.
Overall I’d give ‘Of Stardust’ 3 out of 5 starts and nice read that will make you smile.
My only criticism is the protagonist, Till. She felt a little flat as a character, and when you’re dealing with large personalities such as fairies and other supernatural beings, well, the main character needs to have more than 2 dimensions. I felt (and this is just my own opinion) that she was an absent character going through the motions. I think that maybe if it was changed to first person narrative then Till could have shone a bit more and the reader perhaps bonded quicker with her.
From a writer’s perspective, it was beautifully written and had some very funny moments in – fairy college in particular was a great concept – although there were a handful of cliches in there: forbidden love, the suddenly realising you’re a supernatural being, going off for training etc. To be fair to the author though, there really aren’t many things left in this genre that haven’t been done before and we all love these stories for a reason; so they really needed to be in there.
The front cover feels a little cheap, and really isn’t going to stand out amongst the more artistic covers that tend to draw in the teen reader – a shame really as they are missing out if they don’t read it.
Overall I’d give ‘Of Stardust’ 3 out of 5 starts and nice read that will make you smile.
March 3, 2014
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author and the tour organizers for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Well, this is a great book, no doubt!!! It has humor, fantasy, mystery, magic, suspense and passion as well. From the very first I got hooked in the story and went along the tide. The events that unfolded one by one synced properly with one another and it didn't felt from even one second that anything was out of place. This is a thrilling and compact read that would definitely win hearts.
Coming to the characters I would like to say that I loved the main female lead. I mean the emotions that the author introduced in this character made her real and alive and the readers got attached with her so much more. The hardship that she had to endure was soul-touching but then came in Gus and I just started to swoon, man he is hotttt!!!!
The suspense is so intense that I chewed my nails off and sat at the edge of my seat the whole time. The adventurous journey of Till made me fantasize and mesmerized me totally. I would definitely recommend it to others and hope that you guys will love it. This is a great read!!! Enjoy!!!
Firstly I would like to thank the author and the tour organizers for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Well, this is a great book, no doubt!!! It has humor, fantasy, mystery, magic, suspense and passion as well. From the very first I got hooked in the story and went along the tide. The events that unfolded one by one synced properly with one another and it didn't felt from even one second that anything was out of place. This is a thrilling and compact read that would definitely win hearts.
Coming to the characters I would like to say that I loved the main female lead. I mean the emotions that the author introduced in this character made her real and alive and the readers got attached with her so much more. The hardship that she had to endure was soul-touching but then came in Gus and I just started to swoon, man he is hotttt!!!!
The suspense is so intense that I chewed my nails off and sat at the edge of my seat the whole time. The adventurous journey of Till made me fantasize and mesmerized me totally. I would definitely recommend it to others and hope that you guys will love it. This is a great read!!! Enjoy!!!
July 15, 2014
When quiet, book wormy Till Nesbitt is asked to help her namesake great aunt catalog her personal library, she doesn’t realize her life is about to take a turn for the fairy dust. But soon she finds out, much to her disbelief, that she is destined to follow in the shoes of her aunt and become the family’s next fairy godmother. The book follows Till as she struggles to adapt to this new life while also trying to keep to fairy godmother guidelines. Star-crossed love is a heavy theme in this book, but I don’t want to give too much away except to say it was a lovely, achy-heart tale.
Grace has created a story that is unique, while also taking old fairy tale themes like fairy godmothers and putting a new spin on it. The book was written eloquently and the characters were wholly alive within the pages. The end makes the reader want to follow the tale to find out what happens to Till and her next endeavors as a fully realized godmother. Fortunately, the sequel, In Starlight, is available. I’m looking forward to find out what happens to Till and her forbidden love.
Grace has created a story that is unique, while also taking old fairy tale themes like fairy godmothers and putting a new spin on it. The book was written eloquently and the characters were wholly alive within the pages. The end makes the reader want to follow the tale to find out what happens to Till and her next endeavors as a fully realized godmother. Fortunately, the sequel, In Starlight, is available. I’m looking forward to find out what happens to Till and her forbidden love.
July 12, 2015
I read this book last week. And I haven't really stopped thinking about it since then. (Related...if anyone knows of anymore books like this that they could recommend to help deal with this book hangover, help a sister out.)
I stumbled across this book in a BookBubs deal. The concept of modern Fairy Godparents was intriguing and it was only $.99. Why not? I thought.
I was not expecting to be as captivated by Of Stardust and it's sequel as much as I was. The story drew me in, and I found myself rooting for Till and caring about these characters. I was left wanting to know more when I finished at 2 in the morning.
The only, and I mean only, problem I had with this book was that the ending seemed a little choppy, and there were questions and details that I felt were not addressed (like the key necklace). Luckily, there is a sequel that wraps up the story and does answer many of those questions. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who likes twists on fairy tale themes.
I stumbled across this book in a BookBubs deal. The concept of modern Fairy Godparents was intriguing and it was only $.99. Why not? I thought.
I was not expecting to be as captivated by Of Stardust and it's sequel as much as I was. The story drew me in, and I found myself rooting for Till and caring about these characters. I was left wanting to know more when I finished at 2 in the morning.
The only, and I mean only, problem I had with this book was that the ending seemed a little choppy, and there were questions and details that I felt were not addressed (like the key necklace). Luckily, there is a sequel that wraps up the story and does answer many of those questions. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who likes twists on fairy tale themes.
February 3, 2014
Review from a real pre-teen reader who insists I make time to read this, too.I gave this to my 11 year old daughter for Christmas! She read it over the break-- and am proud to post her review that she wrote. She tells me she loved, loved, loved it! and that I need to make time to read it.
She writes: The bookseller, named Till Nesbitt inherits a big house. She quickly learns there is a reason she has always felt different from other people. She has also inherited the gift to become a fairy godmother and is supposed to go to fairy college and meets Gus. She ends up falling in -love with him but there is a law that says she's not allowed. I liked it a lot because it kept me entertained over vacation and I love to read and read a lot. This was different from most stories I read. I hope I get the next book because this was great!
She writes: The bookseller, named Till Nesbitt inherits a big house. She quickly learns there is a reason she has always felt different from other people. She has also inherited the gift to become a fairy godmother and is supposed to go to fairy college and meets Gus. She ends up falling in -love with him but there is a law that says she's not allowed. I liked it a lot because it kept me entertained over vacation and I love to read and read a lot. This was different from most stories I read. I hope I get the next book because this was great!
February 11, 2014
This was such a wonderful and magical story that I am glad to have read. It makes you want to believe in fairy tales.
On the one hand you have Till, trying to figure out everything she has to learn to become a fairy godmother. And then there is Gus, amazing Gus. I absolutely adored him. Them. It was a slow romance that built to such an epic conclusion, to have it then ripped away. It was powerful. It was painful.
The world building with the university and the teleportation was amazing. The ending is very open and I’m left with a few questions myself. I actually would love a sequel for this one since there are a couple of things left unresolved. The writing was so easy you will breeze through this one. I really liked it.
I would recommend this to everyone who loves a magical, light but powerful romance and fantasy book.
*4.5 stars*
On the one hand you have Till, trying to figure out everything she has to learn to become a fairy godmother. And then there is Gus, amazing Gus. I absolutely adored him. Them. It was a slow romance that built to such an epic conclusion, to have it then ripped away. It was powerful. It was painful.
The world building with the university and the teleportation was amazing. The ending is very open and I’m left with a few questions myself. I actually would love a sequel for this one since there are a couple of things left unresolved. The writing was so easy you will breeze through this one. I really liked it.
I would recommend this to everyone who loves a magical, light but powerful romance and fantasy book.
*4.5 stars*
November 30, 2013
I'd give this novel 4-4.5 stars. Right off the bat, I was drawn into the mystery and dreamy, fairytale quality of this story. Till starts off as an average girl that I think a lot of folks can identify with and she falls into a world she never imagined to be true. Her confidence and resolve are put to the test and I loved seeing how she grows into her own and develops into her new role. As I come to expect from February Grace, there's a sweet romance full of tentative gestures and bittersweet longing and the challenge of making a very hard decision--with consequences for either choice. I'd definitely recommend this book and I can't wait for the next story February Grace writes, whether it be with these characters or another creation entirely.
July 27, 2015
4.5 Stars
Till finds out that her aunt is dying and she needs to take her place as a fairy godmother. She is obviously resistant to this idea but when she starts spending time with other fairy godparents, namely Gus, she slowly begins to accept things. But she doesn't just take things for what they are, she questions the status quo and wants to know why certain things are. I enjoyed that about Till and I loved her relationship with Gus, it was intense and properly developed.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a little different than anything I've read, had a quick pace and a nice story.
Till finds out that her aunt is dying and she needs to take her place as a fairy godmother. She is obviously resistant to this idea but when she starts spending time with other fairy godparents, namely Gus, she slowly begins to accept things. But she doesn't just take things for what they are, she questions the status quo and wants to know why certain things are. I enjoyed that about Till and I loved her relationship with Gus, it was intense and properly developed.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a little different than anything I've read, had a quick pace and a nice story.
February 16, 2014
What can I say but I am a huge Fairy Godmother fan so I had to get this book when I saw what it was about. I can also say that I enjoyed the book. Sure it reminded me of some other stories in places and sure it was a bit on the predictable side but it was also a fun, quick read. Til finds out that she is actually a descendant of a Fairy Godmother and will herself be one soon. It's off to Dreams Come True University for a quick year of learning just what is a FG. She will meet friends along the way to guide her and help her find her true path. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline.
December 15, 2014
I was not a huge fan of this book. It didn't seem professionally written, there was barely any detail, and all the characters were poorly developed with the exception of two.
Plus, Gus actually lost his accent in a couple of paragraphs, something the editor should have caught.
I'm really disappointed in this book. I think I'll stick to the bestsellers from now on. It felt like this simplistic plot was written by a 13-year-old girl.
It was a great idea, but very poorly executed.
Plus, Gus actually lost his accent in a couple of paragraphs, something the editor should have caught.
I'm really disappointed in this book. I think I'll stick to the bestsellers from now on. It felt like this simplistic plot was written by a 13-year-old girl.
It was a great idea, but very poorly executed.
February 5, 2014
Oh my gosh, who amongst us has not wished for a fairy godmother to watch over us? This was a sweeting romance with such creative aspects to it. I loved how it was written. I loved the innocence and the blatant desire all at the time same. It took me a little bit to get into it and once I did, I was hooked. A solid 4.5 star for sure.
November 28, 2013
This book is phenomenal! I loved it so much. Fairygodparents, magic, and some romance all combined into one. It is written very well, and immediately caught my eye. definitely worth putting on my shelf!
February 14, 2014
Wonderfully written
Wonderfully written
I laughed, I cried and fell in love with each and every character. Thank you for such a wonderful journey.
I couldn't recommend this book more.
Enjoy
Wonderfully written
I laughed, I cried and fell in love with each and every character. Thank you for such a wonderful journey.
I couldn't recommend this book more.
Enjoy
March 16, 2014
It was spell binding. Talk about an apt word.It was predictable in so many ways yet unpredictable in many others. The best thing was that it was a complete story. No loose ends and cliff hangers. And I really enjoyed it.
January 27, 2014
A refreshingly sweet story.
February 17, 2014
Review on March 6th (:
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