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The Dwellers #2

The Star Dwellers

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After rescuing her father and younger sister, Adele is forced to leave her family and Tristan behind to find her mother in the cruel and dangerous realm of the star dwellers. Amidst blossoming feelings for Adele, Tristan must cast his feelings aside and let her find her own way amongst the star dwellers, while he accompanies Adele's father to meet with the leaders of the moon dwellers and decide the fate of the Tri-Realms. Will Adele be able to rescue her mother and make it back to the Moon Realm before the President and the government soldiers destroy her family? Can Tristan convince the moon dweller puppets of the error of their ways? Was Adele's lost kiss with Tristan her one and only chance at love? In her world there's only one Someone must die.

374 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 24, 2012

113 people are currently reading
2863 people want to read

About the author

David Estes

80 books2,674 followers
Get a FREE short story from David Estes' #1 Amazon bestselling epic fantasy series, Fatemarked, when you sign up for his mailing list: https://www.subscribepage.com/b2v6v3

David Estes has written more than 40 science fiction and fantasy books. He loves chatting with his readers, all of whom he considers to be his friends. David lives in Hawaii with his beautiful Aussie wife, Adele, his moody cats, Bailey and Luna, and his rambunctious sons, Beau and Brody.

Join 3,000+ David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite in David Estes' official fan group at:
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...

Books by David Estes:

-The Fatemarked Epic- For fans of A Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and The Way of Kings! Four kingdoms. A century-old war. One ancient prophecy that could change everything.

-The Kingfall Histories- a follow up series to the #1 Amazon bestselling series, The Fatemarked Epic

-Strings- “A wonderful retelling of the Pinocchio story…I simply couldn’t put this book down.”—Rysa Walker, bestselling author of TIMEBOUND

-The Dwellers Saga and the Country Saga. Voted books to read if you enjoyed the Hunger Games on Buzzfeed and Listopia.

-Salem's Revenge trilogy- the witch apocalypse begins!

-Slip Trilogy- "Someone must die before another can be born..."

-The Adventures of Nikki Powergloves- Kid superheroes? 'Nuff said.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
Profile Image for David Estes.
Author 80 books2,674 followers
Read
February 7, 2015
The sequel to The Moon Dwellers is finally out! I just wanted to make sure you are all aware :)

What I promise from this book:

-more action

-more ass kicking by Adele

-more drama

-more secrets revealed!

So sit back and enjoy the ride! I finished this book with an 8-hour, 9,000 word session where I was left shaking and tearful with emotion, so yeah, I poured everything I had into the climax. I hope when you read it you can feel what I felt when I wrote it. Happy Reading!

David Estes
Profile Image for Dvora .
255 reviews
October 7, 2012
I'll be honest here. I really loved The Moon Dwellers. I was really hoping that David Estes David Estes would do even better with The Star Dwellers. I had very high hopes. I read the first 245 pages in one night. I stayed up until my eyes just couldn't focus anymore. Until I realized that my brain was just not taking in the words because I was purely exhausted. I didn't want to stop. But finally at around 2:30 am, I caved into sleep. When I woke up this morning, all I could think about was reading this book. I got my coffee and my breakfast and went back onto this incredible ride David put me on. The whole entire journey, there was suspense, and I loved it!! I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen with each character. The way David wrote was so intense that I never had any idea what was going to happen. Although, I admit I thought I did a few times and laughed when I was proven wrong.

The characters were so real. I felt like David was writing about real friends going through these amazing events together. I didn't feel like I was reading a book. I felt like it was actually happening. It was so emotional. I laughed a lot! I was sad at times. Especially when speaking about Cole. I felt the loss as well. I was so happy at certain times that it made me verbally express my excitement.

David I can't thank you enough for this amazing book that I know you worked so hard on. I CAN'T WAIT until December when The Sun Dwellers comes out.

D'vora
Profile Image for Zuleeza.
454 reviews256 followers
September 7, 2012
This review is also available on my blog, Qwerty

Disclaimer: This review is originally written as a beta review and I have modified it as I read the final version. But since I read the ARC with a speed of Usain Bolt, I might have missed a few changes here and there.

Another disclaimer: Spoilers are everywhere since, like I said before, this review was intended as a beta review.

Well, here comes one more disclaimer: Following the rules of math, the actual rating is 16-stars because the beta version is twice better than The Moon Dwellers and the final version is twice better than the beta version. :)

So...everybody's familiar with KFC's "Original Recipe" of 11 secret herbs and spices? Now, I think David Estes has found 11 secrets to write a smashing Young Adult hit.
1. Double POV
2. Dystopian setting
3. Admirable bromance
4. Sweet and innocent young love
5. Mr Nice guy hero
6. Kick-ass heroine
7. Charming secondary characters
8. Witty and humorous lines
9. Fast-paced and action-pack story
10. Heart-wrenching flashbacks and background stories
11. Narration in present tense

Wow, Mr David Estes, just wow! I couldn't believe how much you have grown as an author in just a few short months. If I don't give this book the five stars it deserves, then I'm just a mean, sadistic, I-like-to-watch-the-world-burns reviewer.

My comments (not necessarily in chronological order of this book);



Overall, this still earns the top spot for the best dystopia I've read this year. Granted, this book doesn't have sophisticated word building that usually makes reviewers have this knee-jerk reaction to give such books a 5-stars rating. But The Star Dwellers simply serves its purpose you see...to actually entertain readers while delivering good life lessons at the same time .
Profile Image for Jenny.
1,001 reviews232 followers
May 28, 2014
I'm a huge David Estes fan, so this may be biased...but I LOVED this book! This is the second book in the Dwellers series, a dystopian series where humanity has retreated underground for survival. We left off in Moon Dwellers with the Star Dwellers invading and bombing the Moon Dwellers, Adele heading off to try and rescue her mom, and Tristan teaming up with Adele's dad, Ben, to try and unite the Moon and Star Dwellers against their common enemy, Tristan's dad.

Things pick up right where we left off, with everyone still running and trying to survive. Now everyone has a purpose, which makes things all the more fun! The world building continues to amaze me. Everything is so descriptive. Its almost like watching a movie in my head!

I never knew what was going to happen next. Between things like "Bat Flu" (Yuck!)and trains running behind hidden caves, there was always something new coming at us. There were also a couple of surprising twists that I didn't see coming, and it makes me wonder what else the author has in store for us later!

The highlight of the book for me was Tristan and Roc's "Bromance." I just love the banter between these two, and it really helps lighten things up sometimes. I got to know Roc a lot better in this story, and I can't wait to see him become more of a hero. Adele and Tristan also had some more time together towards the end, which was great. I love the two of them together!

Adele also learns a lot about her own family, and their part in the Resistance. Her dad, Ben, is just an amazing man. He and Tristan spend a lot of time together in the beginning of the story, and Tristan sees in him the father he never had. Its amazing how much the theme of family is carried throughout the book, and I loved it!

You might be tired of hearing me say that, but I honestly can't think of anything in this story I didn't like. This is an amazing thing, because usually the second books in a series are my least favorite of the series. This girl can't wait to see what happens next in Sun Dwellers!
Profile Image for Laurice.
42 reviews37 followers
December 14, 2012

UPDATE!!! REVIEW!!

I didn't realize I haven't written a review for The Star Dwellers when in fact it is the best book and by far, my favorite among the three Dweller books!!!

Just two months ago, I remember putting my review on hold because I honestly think that my words wouldn't do justice to the action, suspense, and sweet moments this book has to offer! Two months later, I decided to give the review a try. :) So here it goes.

Just like any other series, The Star Dwellers picks right where The Moon Dwellers ended. Adele and Tristan parted ways to accomplish different tasks just when they have only spent a handful of pages together. Adele went with Tawni to venture the Star Realm and save her mother; Tristan, with Roc and Ben to gain the support of the Moon Realm.

Neither of them will have a light task. Trials after trials will block their way from reaching their goals. Adele and Tawni will acquire a fatal disease that eats up their energy and sanity. One more mile long, they're dead. Tristan's situation is nothing better. The Resistance Leaders from the Moon Realm don't trust him, believing he's a spy of Pres. Nailin. No one knew how great a disaster it would be if the Moon Realm and the Star Realm don't agree to unite. With these obstacles ahead, will Adele and Tristan see each other again?

The Sun Dwellers is a sure page-turner! It will make you crave for the next word and the word after that. Prepare yourself for a series of twists and turns because David will surprise you when you least expect it! One more thing, SOMEONE--someone we all love--will die. :'(

HAHA! Enjoy reading! God bless us all! :)

View this review at Laurice-SunDwellers
Profile Image for Alana ~ The Book Pimp.
857 reviews192 followers
September 12, 2013
The world just gets bigger and bigger. Even the new characters we meet are so rich and multilayered. It's really a reminder that this world, 'the Dwellers', is NOT an overly friendly place. No one is immune from the infection that President Nalin's greed and power have caused.

Nothing is safe any longer. Royalty on down the line to the smallest babe Star Dweller... war is not just coming, it is HERE. The pace that book one set continues as Adele and Tristan fight for each other, and for the hope of a better future. Will the star dwellers hold any answers?

More twists and turns than a roller coaster, be sure to strap in your belt and return your tray to it's full upright position before beginning this book! Be sure, too, to fire up your brain and get ready for some cryptic clues to what the future holds. My crystal ball was a little too murky to make much out, but I'm keen to find out more secrets and continue the series!

I'd like to thank David Estes for providing an ARC in exchange for a review.
Profile Image for Terri ♥ (aka Mrs. Christian Grey).
1,528 reviews482 followers
November 29, 2012
Quick review:

Cover:Very Blue
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: Just as captivating as the last.
Characters: Well done
Plot: A journey that will test every aspect of your life.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Absolutely
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Tristian

SUMMARY (60 words or less)

Not every time will a five star first book be followed up in equal or better fashion. Have no fear here, this book definitely will not disappoint. I’m so in love with this series, I’m not sure I can wait for the next book. David has created something very magical.

To see my full review and likeness of my book boyfriend, check out my blog post.

http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...


Profile Image for Kayleigh {K-Books}.
1,186 reviews19 followers
September 7, 2012
Please Note: This is a review of the beta version of The Star Dwellers

Wow! What a fantastic sequel. I fell head-over-heels in love with David's unique dystopian world when I read the first installment of the Dwellers Series, The Moon Dwellers. I was sucked into this underground world and loved every moment of it. In no way did I ever think the sequel could quite live up to the first book. I was definitely wrong. The Star Dwellers surpassed all of my expectations and more. I was just completely amazed and thrown back into this fantastic world and left dying to know what will happen next.

Tristan and Adele have gone their separate ways. Both with their own missions to help bring peace to the fight between The Star Dwellers and The Moon Dwellers Tristan travels back to The Moon Realm with Adele's father while Adele must venture deem into dangerous territory, The Star Realm to find her mother. But what she finds there may change everything. Can The Star and Moon Realms band together to change things for the better or with The Sun Realm continue to rule against them all?

I really adored this book. Right from the first page I was thrown back into this underground dystopian world and I just could not read the book fast enough. I needed to know what was going to happen. Let me tell you what actually happened was definitely nothing what I expected. After finishing the first book in the Dweller series I has all these thoughts and theories going around in my head of what I thought might happen in book 2. I didn't come close. The Star Dwellers is just full of twists and turns that I did not see coming and left me with my jaw on the floor and flipping back a few pages saying... did that actually happen? It was brilliant.

I really love that Tristan and Adele were apart for the most of this book. Don't get me wrong I really love their relationship and their romance. I'm a total hopeless romantic and so hope they end up together but I felt like this book focused a lot more on the dystopian society and it answered a lot of my questions about how the society got like that. I really loved seeing the more political aspects in this one and I felt like it was more fast-paced than the first one. There was a lot more going on and it really felt like important things started happening. Things that will really impact the future of this society and of the characters.

I genuinely loved this book. I could not put it down. It is fast-paced and will leave you breathless dying to know what on earth is going to happen next. David is such a fantastic author and he really knows how to pull at the heartstrings. The Star Dwellers is a lot more emotional that The Moon Dwellers. I became a lot more attached to some of the 'lesser' characters in The Moon Dwellers. Those characters we didn't really see a lot of in book one I loved in book 2 and the ending of this book left me reeling and heartbroken.

I can't wait to see what David comes up with next. This is definitely fast becoming one of my favourite dystopian series and I am really looking forward to reading the next installment.
Profile Image for Tina.
343 reviews19 followers
October 23, 2012
I am a huge fan of David Estes's work. I loved The Moon Dwellers and was so excited to read The Star Dwellers. I tried to read only a chapter a day for a discussion in David's fan group, but after I reached chapter 5 it was impossible for me to stop. I had to find out if Adele found her mother in the Star Realm and I needed to know if Tristan would be able to help unite the Lower Realms. This book took off right from the beginning and let me tell you there were a few surprises that had me asking myself, did that just happen? I love how connected I felt to the characters. I have to say I have a new favorite lead character, Roc. Roc stole my heart and had me laughing out loud. His chacter has grown so much since The Moon Dwellers and I couldn't get enough!
David Estes is a top notch author that creates a world you can invision right before your eyes. His decription of this struggling world pulled me in and left me breathless. I am counting the days until the final book in the trilogy is released. The Sun Dwellers will finally answer the nagging question, what is Tristan hiding? I can't wait.
Profile Image for Christie Rich.
Author 16 books344 followers
September 6, 2012
I really enjoyed the Moon Dwellers, the first in the Dwellers Series by David Estes, yet this time around I was sucked in completely.

I'm going to be honest here, I didn't relate well with Adele in the first book. Her reactions seemed off to me for some reason, but this time around, I loved her. I loved every minute of this book. Estes creative genius continues to shine in this installment. We get quite a few questions answered and more are raised.

Adele and Tristan are apart throughout a good chunk of this book which makes their committment to each other all the more believable. I was lucky enough to be chosen as a beta reader for this great book, and I'm aching to read the final version when it comes out. I've already been told that some amazing scenes were added and I can't wait to read them. Now I just need to find the time :)

If you love dystopian, definitely give The Dwellers Series by David Estes a read! I usually don't like dystopian, yet I've been sucked into this amazing series and can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Karen’s Library.
1,295 reviews203 followers
June 27, 2015
The audio of this book was fantastic! Julia Whelan and Will Damron killed it as Adele and Tristan! I originally read this book a couple of years ago, but listening to the audio performances made it a completely new and thrilling experience!!

My original review:

Another great book in The Dwellers series! The Star Dwellers left me wanting more of this world and the characters I've come to know and love! From the beginning I was gripped by scene after scene of drama and uncertainty of whether the heroes would make it. And the twists and turns blew my mind as they unraveled bit by bit! I love the relationships between Tristan and Roc, Adele and Tawni, Tristan and Adele, Roc and Esley, and on and on...
Profile Image for Marla.
1,284 reviews244 followers
January 27, 2016
The middle of the trilogy. Family reunion, new friends and you learn more about the resistance and about how the underground dwellings comes about. I would read all these books back-to-back as one starts where the other leaves off. Very enjoyable series.
Profile Image for Nicole.
Author 1 book155 followers
August 15, 2012
Even the beta is flawless, review to come after I read the final version.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
644 reviews17 followers
November 30, 2012
*****Be warned I will not be able to control myself and this review will contain spoilers!!******




I received this book free from the author after being one of the first five to review book one in a read to review, I loved the first book and could not stop reading which worked in my favor getting me this fantastic read. The second installment of the series was just as good if not better than the first, I want to thank the author for giving me this book and encourage anyone to go out and get this series as it will be well worth your while. This is a wonderful story with beautiful writing and the most lovable characters, it is at the top of my list for recommended reads.
Just when Adele and Tristan are together with her father and sister, Adele must leave to save the last member of her family...her mother and Tristan must go and try to unite the star and moon realms against his evil father. Both on totally different paths yet working towards the same goal. This lead to so many revelations I didn't think my brain could handle it. Her parents were leaders of the rebellion which was supposed to be gone, her mother is now a general in the star dweller army and so much more, there were so many WHAT THE WHAT?? moments I just had to keep reading and find out what would could possibly be next and I was never disappointed.
So many new and interesting people I understood Adele's hesitant nature it was hard to know who to trust. I never saw the Brody thing coming and Trevor seemed off for a long time but I am glad to see that him and Ram are supporting then on their mission, I know Tristan will be able to prove himself to Ram and he will be a valuable asset.
Lots of great complex characters on both sides. Although of course the evil ones are just that pure evil and I hope the president gets whats coming to him what a sick man. On the other hand the "Good Guys" is a fantastic group each with their own strengths and weaknesses who have been through so much together in such a short time they now how to be there for each other and lean on one another for support. Elsey was by far my favorite she is wise beyond her years yet was still able to hold onto innocence enough to keep things light when it seemed they could not get any darker, her ability to charm everyone she meets was so adorable and I know it was her choice of words that won everyone over, she is a girl after my own heart with her love of the old world and her eternal optimism even in the toughest times of their journey.
After reading these two wonderful books I fell like I know the characters and I can not wait to read the next one and find out the fate that awaits them and I hope they all get the revenge they seek. Thanks again David Estes for the wonderful read and again I say..GO GET THESE BOOKS AND GET READING!
Profile Image for Lola.
1,982 reviews275 followers
October 6, 2012
This book was fantastic. I really enjoyed book 1 and was really glad when I was asked to beta read book 2. And book 2 is so much better than book 1. This is easily becoming one of the best dystopia series I’ve read.

The story is fast paced and action packed. I just wanted to keep reading. The story is still told from both Adele’s and Tristan point of view. Sometimes the pov changes still annoyed me and I was sometimes a bit confused because I didn’t remember how the last chapter of this pov had ended. Both stories where so interesting that I didn’t mind the changes too much. I really liked seeing both their sides of the story, especially now they where spilt up again and both had their own adventure. The pacing was very fast too and there was always something happening. There were many surprising events or plot changes that I didn’t see coming. There are also many emotional events, from sadness to happiness and I experienced it all together with Adele and Tristan.

While book 1 already made a solid basis for both the characters and the world building, this book takes it all more in depth and still managed to add things. We get to know the characters even better and learn even some new things about them. And also the side characters have their own personalities. The cast of this book is quite large, but they all have their distinct personalities so I was almost never confused who was who. There are also some big revelations which put some character in a new perspective.

Also though most of the world building is done in book 1 already, this book just builds further on it, we get some more in depth information about the world, get some more details and learn even more about this world. The world really comes even more alive in this book.

This really is an amazing book. It took me some time to read the first 25% of this book, but the last 75% I finished in one day in two sittings. Because I couldn’t put it down, it was that good. And the ending only leaves me wanting to read more and I can’t wait to read the next book.

To conclude: this is a great sequel. I loved this book, it was fast paced and action packed. We get to learn even more about the characters and get more information about the world. If you want to read a great dystopia book, you must read this series.
Profile Image for Sophie "Beware Of The Reader".
1,568 reviews390 followers
January 4, 2015
So, it’s reading day 2 and I’ve already finished The Star Dwellers, second book of the series. Two books in two days, that’s how addictive these stories are.
What happens in this one? Well, many things as I‘ve now realized it’s this author’s modus operandi: never let the readers get bored but always keep them on their toes.
Adele left to find her mother and free her from The Max. But she is in for a big surprise and she’ll have to overcome deadly ordeals with Tawni. They nearly won’t make it. The least you can say is travelling in the caves is no picnic. I can’t say more about this as I don’t want to spoil your fun but let’s just say the Star Realm is in far worse condition than the Moon Realms.
Adele will meet new friends but also foe. A spy is lurking around the corner and it will nearly be too late to unmask the traitor. Never trust a pretty face…
Adele will barely escape death several times in this book. She truly must be some kind of cat with nine lives! And each time I gripped my Kindle so strongly I don’t understand how it’s not broken. It may be useful to have a spare one while reading these books…
Tristan and Ben try to convince the Moon Realm Vice Presidents to join the Resistance. It’s far from an easy feat and Tristan keeps getting angry all the time. Far from composed and clinical speeches, he gives all he’s got and pours his heart in the fight. His father tries to undermine his efforts by revealing some awful secret that made me loath the man even more and I didn’t think it was possible. You have a true villain with President.
The alternate point of view kept me reading: you end a chapter told from Adele’s side on a mini cliffhanger and you go on with Tristan, also ending on a mini cliffhanger. So you just jump from mini cliffhanger to mini cliffhanger because you just HAVE to know what will happen next. Clever writing, really!
Death will come for some characters, it seems we lose some of the good guys in each book and I always felt sad, like I lost a friend.
By the end, Adele and other characters (I won’t say who survived) will be sent on a dangerous mission, the only hope to end this war and the dictatorship.
So, as captivating as The Moon Dwellers and by now, I’m going to read book number 3. More news to come by then.
Profile Image for Meaghan.
418 reviews6 followers
May 20, 2013
I am really enjoying this series! I really like the different take on a dystopian world with everyone being underground. I read plenty of dystopians and this is a very refreshing take on the genre.

I like how Tristan and Adele's relationship is growing more in this book. I was getting angry with Brody when he seemed like he was getting interested in Adele.




I love Tawni and Roc. They are so adorable!


My favorite parts would have to be the banter that continues between Roc and Tristan.

Also, the diary from Annie was so sad! I felt so bad for her! I hope to maybe hear some more of her diary entries later in the series. I was so interested in her story even though she's pretty minimal.

And that bat flu stuff was horrible! I can't imagine having to constantly check water like they have to do or risk death! Brings new meanings to things like:
[image error]





Overall, this is an excellent read and I can't wait to read Sun Dwellers.
Profile Image for Reem Eid.
27 reviews
December 27, 2012
You know how I know a good adventure book? When I think back if I'll ever re-read it the answer's always "No". Weird enough right? Well the thing is with good adventure-filled plot-twist-packed novels like The Star Dwellers is it is such a rollercoaster ride. A good one at that.


The second book of The Dwellers saga was perhaps better than the first one. The characters continue to develop and you get a better idea about the background of each and everyone of them.


Perhaps the character that really shone in this book was Roc. He was definitely on of my favourite characters, I mean the guy's funny and a really good friend, what else could you wish for? Perhaps one of the things I wasn't really all that fond of was the heart to heart conversation he and Tristan hand quite few times, sometimes it would be a little bit corny, but then he'd make a sarcastic comment or so and manage to make me smile.



Yet again, Estes writes in an excellent technique with alternating POVs which I am beginning to be very fond of. Kind of adds something special to the novel and you get to know what both characters are feeling from a closer way. I need not to tell you that this book, like the last one, will take you by surprise. I am looking forward to the nxt book in the series.
Profile Image for Dre.
246 reviews90 followers
October 5, 2012
I know I like a book when it bleeds into my dreams. After finishing this book, I had a dream of being underground, with a headlamp and gun in hand. It was too short a dream, but long enough for me to remember.

I really love how David made this series into a double POV. It helps the reader learn more about how Tristan and Adele attacks certain situations, the emotions that they feel on any given moment, and how they long to be with each other but still keep their priorities in focus.

This book made me love Tawni more. I like Roc's humor. I love Elsey! And Ben, he's the kind of man you would like on your side. Anna's strength and love for her family is admirable. Then there's Trevor. I kind of miss Cole.

David dropped bombs of secrets in this sequel. I was like, "Whoa?! Is this for real?!" and there were also the I-knew-its. The sneak peek of the next book just makes me want to jump to December!

Hey, David, it's my birthday on Dec 21st. *hint hint*
Profile Image for Karen’s Library.
1,295 reviews203 followers
June 8, 2015
Another great book in The Dwellers series! The Star Dwellers left me wanting more of this world and the characters I've come to know and love! From the beginning I was gripped by scene after scene of drama and uncertainty of whether the heroes would make it. And the twists and turns blew my mind as they unraveled bit by bit! I love the relationships between Tristan and Roc, Adele and Tawni, Tristan and Adele, Roc and Esley, and on and on... Thank you, David, for giving me a glimpse of the next book which starts off by revealing one of the biggest secrets yet. Now I'm chomping at the bit to read The Sun Dwellers! I'm really enjoying this series!!
Profile Image for Chris Sorensen.
Author 4 books71 followers
Want to read
July 18, 2012
Almost done with the first book and CAN'T wait for the 2nd! Congrats Mr. Estes!
Profile Image for Karla BookAddict2.
386 reviews28 followers
April 8, 2013
deleting reviews if you want to take a look at them you can do so on my blog, link on my profile
Profile Image for Brooke.
1,270 reviews206 followers
September 24, 2014
I want to thank the author, David Estes, for providing me with an ARC ecopy of this book to read and give an honest review. It has been a pleasure to know David and to watch his writing grow and progress! I was super excited to be able to read this book early as I really loved the first book!

Blurb from Goodreads:
After rescuing her father and younger sister, Adele is forced to leave her family and Tristan behind to find her mother in the cruel and dangerous realm of the star dwellers.
Amidst blossoming feelings for Adele, Tristan must cast his feelings aside and let her find her own way amongst the star dwellers, while he accompanies Adele's father to meet with the leaders of the moon dwellers and decide the fate of the Tri-Realms.
Will Adele be able to rescue her mother and make it back to the Moon Realm before the President and the sun dweller soldiers destroy her family?
Can Tristan convince the moon dweller puppets of the error of their ways?
Was Adele's lost kiss with Tristan her one and only chance at love?
In her world there's only one rule: Someone must die

First I must start with the cover of this book. I was so drawn to it when I first saw it. It's so simple, yet really gives you an idea of where the book is going. You don't need much to understand what the cover means, especially if you've read the first book in the series.

I love the alternating view points in this book, as I did with the first book. I have to be honest that at times I tend to get confused when this type of writing is used, but David did such a great job of making each character so unique, you know exactly who is speaking without even having to look at the chapter titals! The characters continue to be as interesting as they were in the first book. And the characters are even more well developed with more interesting characteristics noted throughout the book.
Adele continues to grow. You see sides of her that are new and sides that were revealed in the first book. She becomes even more strong, if that's possible, and she is totally and completely kick ass! What I really love is that, even though she is drawn to Tristan and wants to be reunited with him very badly, this is not what consumes her world. She is set on finding her mom and helping the resistance unite the lower realms. She is smart and sassy. And she is not totally trusting of everyone, although at one point her trust does get her in more trouble than she could have bargained for!
As for Tristan, he continues to swoon over Adele. What I find interesting is, unlike other YA novels, it is the male character that is more obsessed than the female character. Tristan is constantly thinking of Adele, constantly talking about when he will be reunited with her and how she makes him feel. I find it fresh and new to see this from the male character. It is as if Adele is the "swoon worthy" character in these books.The one thing that is driving me nuts is that Tristan has something he keeps wanting to tell Adele, but we have yet to find out what that is!
Roc continues to be one of my all time favorite characters. He's funny and witty. He's loyal and believable. Although, I do find his relationship with Tristan a little more on the femanin side, meaning I feel like it is something I would see more between two female characters as opposed to male characters. Yet, I really love that he and Tristan are so close. And you certainly find out more about Roc in this book. Things that you did not see coming that make you cringe, and things that make you happy for him.
Tawni is an awesome best friend. She is so supportive of Adele. She stands by her throughout this book, as she did in the first book. It is like they are connected in some unspoken way.
As for the other characters, Elsey is really cute, although I do find her way of speaking annoying. But I understand that she tries to act older than her age and was pretty much forced into being like that because of the circumstances of how they live. I love Adele's dad, Ben. I love how he's so open with Tristan and how he accepts Tristan without questioning his motives. Adele's mom, Anna, is hard to read. I am not sure where she stands. I am interested to see if we learn anything further about who she is in the next book. And the other ancillary characters, Ram, Trevor, Brody, certainly help make the story more interesting.

As for the storyline, is is definitely all out dystopian. This book kind of reminded me of Mockingjay (The Hunger Games #3). Without giving any spoilers away, let's just say that politics continue to be involved, including the president. He certainly reminds me of President Rose from The Hunger Games. I love the action of this book, it keeps you wanting to read. I really didn't want to put it down and was annoyed when I had to stop in the middle of a chapter. It took me very little time to finish this book.

Davids writing is really quite flawless. i am completely impressed with the lack of issues in grammar and other editing faux pas I often see in books. I think I found one grammatical/spelling error throughout the entire book. I love that he is so through with this, it's a big pet peeve of mine. And David's writing flows flawlessly. There are no awkward pauses or misunderstandings in the writing. It just goes and goes and goes until you finish a chapter and want more.

I am floored by how much I am really enjoying this series. I have to say that David has done a spectacular job in creating a world where his characters are real, his descriptions make you feel like you are in that exact place and his action scenes make you want to keep reading to find out what happens.

4 out of 5 stars from me! Excellent job, Mr. Estes!

Review also posted on the following sites:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-s...
http://www.amazon.com/The-Star-Dwelle...
http://www.librarything.com/work/1313...

And to be posted on The Cover Contessa on 10/16/12
http://thecovercontessa.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Sab.
299 reviews94 followers
September 24, 2013
Also posted on Sab The Book Eater

Wow. Just... wow. A lot of second books in trilogies are lack luster in comparison to the first one. But The Star Dwellers isn't one of those. It's ahmazing. It's so good that it adds up to the Dwellers Saga's awesomeness. How do I even begin to describe the emotional roller coaster this book took me on?

The Star Dwellers picked up right where The Moon Dwellers left off with Adele and Tristan apart. I honestly thought that after seeing them together, I would have a hard time enjoying this because they'll be apart again. But that wasn't the case at all here. Adele and Tristan had separate missions to accomplish, both immensely risky, although this time they're working towards a common goal. 

David Estes sure knows how to create characters that will undoubtedly create an impact. The character building in the previous book was good but this time around it's even better. I think this is probably my favorite part of this book. Old and new characters were given equal importance. I loved each one's voice and role in the story. Adele, Tristan, Tawni, and Rock were still the same people but somehow more kickass now that they know what exactly they're up against. I love that through Adele and Tristan's alternating POV's with every chapter, I got to know more about all four of them. These teenagers were nothing short of brave. 

The action and imagery here is even better given that they face a whole lot more. What I especially liked was the part where Adele and Tawni were battling the effects of Bat Flue, including really nasty hallucinations. It was terrifying but at the same time awesome how the pair went through and overcame the hallucinations! The descriptions were so vivid, it made you feel like you were experiencing them as well.

Now the big twist in the story... wow. Another wow! I can't even say much about the second half of the book because I'll just end up spoiling the book and the next one. All I can say is: you'll never see it coming. The big revelation explains so much about what's really happening in the Tri-Realms and it also makes room for Adele to become even more badass.

The last quarter of the book was quite something. Unexpected. Nerve-wracking. Painful. All the events that took place towards the end of the book were so painful that I had to email David just to tell him how much I hate him for making me cry. Seriously! I did. Everything was so well written that I somehow love the heartache it gave me.

The second installment in the Dwellers Saga is a real page turner! Full of action and unexpected turn of events, The Star Dwellers is definitely deserving of a 5-star rating. 
Profile Image for Teiamarie.
176 reviews
January 12, 2013
Now that I've had time to think about it, I have realized that nothing can possibly change my mind about this series and this author…

David Estes is an amazing writer and I love his Dweller series!

Like The Moon Dwellers, there is never a dull moment in this story. Tristan and Adele were forced on separate missions at the end of the first book and even though they have had little time together to develop a significant relationship I don't find it lacking in the slightest. Due to David's brilliant writing I feel the crazy attraction that they have towards one another and find their feelings completely believable.

I really enjoyed the fun light-hearted camaraderie that developed between Elsey, Tristan and Roc too. It kind of reminds me of some friendships that I have now. While I am not a fresh faced 20 yr old I'm still seen as the baby in my group of friends so in this sense I can relate to Elsey. We're of two completely different generations but sometimes I feel very young and naive. It's not necessarily a bad thing because like Tristan and Roc do for Elsey, I feel protected by my friends. By taking care of Elsey and trying to cheer her up when she's down they also show that they are truly good guys.

**MILD (AND VAGUE) SPOILERS AHEAD**

Now for the surprises, Roc and Tawni pairing up kind of took me by surprise. I don't know how I missed it but I totally didn't see that coming. It's not a bad thing but I'm still not quite sure I feel that connection. The twist with Adele's mom, Anna, was also a surprise. When her mom was withholding information I wasn't quite sure how I felt about her. Her dad on the other hand, I loved! Needless to say, the ending was an absolute shocker and I felt a little sick with disbelief when I read it. I had to go back and read it again.

I do love this series though and David, I really hope I'm not going to cry during the last book. I will absolutely read The Sun Dweller's and the President needs some serious slapping around before meeting his demise. He better meet his demise!! He's the one guy I hate the most in this series. Tristan's brother needs to fall down a well or something because he's an evil little rodent too. My finger's are crossed that there is some serious ass kicking in book three. I can't wait to get started!!
Profile Image for Jonel.
1,717 reviews311 followers
February 26, 2016
Estes’ work The Star Dwellers is no less captivating that the first book in the series. The pages are so full of flowing descriptions that they cannot help to bring the pages to life. As a reader I spent page after page with my fingers crossed, hoping for the best while expecting the worst. With the numerous twists and turns found at every corner I found myself gasping out loud at the unexpected turns of events. There are moments of utter sorrow that you don’t know how to rise above, through which the characters continue to fight leading to heartfelt reunions and heartwarming moments, and let’s not forget the laughs along the way.

The characters become more developed within this novel, literally jumping from the page to read with you. Unexpected layers appear within the personalities of individuals. They fight against all odds for what they believe in, pitting themselves against the world in which they live while attempting to bring about change and overcome the oppression of the upper class. The physical separation of the classes (by rock and by distance) within this post-apocalyptic society makes the different struggles that they face even more apparent and gripping. It also plays out within the minds of each of the characters. The characters are fighting their inner demons and personal turmoil. They become more real by the word. They are also forced to make heart wrenching decisions based on what is best for the greater good. Because of this, our star-crossed lovers spend a great deal of time apart (causing me to yet again cross my fingers, wishing them back together).

I fully recommend this work to anyone who wishes to read something captivating that causes you to think outside the box. Estes has a way of bringing the reader within the pages of his work with page one and keeping you there until the final sentence. One word of warning however.... If you don’t like cliff-hangers, be sure to pick up the next book in the series before you hit the last page.
Profile Image for Daniel.
175 reviews25 followers
April 23, 2014
Plot- 8/10
Characters- 9/10
Writing- 8.5/10
World Building- 8/10

TOTAL- 8.4/10

Quickie Review- GIVE ME THE SUN DWELLERS NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *shoves smashwords website into my parents' face* <-- my conversation with my parents yesterday. I need it now. Ok, time to review. The Star Dwellers was a great book by David Estes. It picked up right where the Moon Dwellers left off. I thought that the plot was a little sluggish during the middle, and there was more of a psychological focus on the characters. There were questions about who to trust, and constant battles between hope and despair, which I found to be a welcome addition to the writing. However, I felt the plot suffered slightly from this. I thought the last 50 pages or so were brilliantly plotted, and kept me on the edge of my bed in anticipation. I loved the characters in this book, and I truly believe that this is the main strength of this series. Adele is an admirable lead, and Tristan is a great character in his own right as well- he's not just there to provide the love interest. Roc and Tawni are all great characters- I particularly liked Roc in this installment. The relationship between Roc and Tristan was also very well done. I commend the author for his lighthearted, humorous approach to writing. However, I thought the same writing issues were also present here as they were in the Moon Dwellers. This humorous writing style got a tad childish at times. For example, "I am crazy-over-the-moon-ecstatic right now." That's cute, but I question whether an older teen would think something like that. I thought the world building was good overall, but I still have questions. I wanted Adele's mom to share more about that secret, but I have to wait for that, I suppose. Also, I wonder why Tristan's dad told Tristan about Roc's story, because he fully knew that Tristan would use that to his advantage. Overall it was an excellent book, and I hope to get my hands on the next one soon!
Profile Image for Harlee.
210 reviews20 followers
February 11, 2014
I loved it. I think I loved it more than the first book! There was so much action, it was so intense. The characters really grew on me, which is great because I wasn't so attached to them in the first book, although I can't remember why I felt that way. There were so many great things about this book. Tristan and Roc became so much closer. The circumstances were horrible, but it allowed me to take them more seriously. They still joke around with each other, but they have both changed. Adele, oh my gosh, what a woman! She and Tawni fought their way down to the Star Realm, found her mom, and realized who and what they were fighting for. I feel like Adele is a bit more selfless than Tristan is. He had to remind himself several times that this wasn't just about him, where as Adele hardly ever thinks about herself. I loved Roc and Elsey becoming great friends! Roc is so adorable. It seems like, even though he got lucky having Tristan as a friend, he's had it pretty rough and he deserves some happiness. Hmm..what else? Oh! Trevor! Brody! All that stuff! You'll just have to read this to know what I mean! This book was just full of surprises. And the ending? Ahhhh, why him? I wasn't shocked, but it is sad. I knew it was gonna be somebody...and I am pretty upset it was him. Now they just have to fight harder! I bought the next book and I'm hoping to start it tonight!
Profile Image for Amber Garr.
Author 33 books450 followers
January 29, 2013
4.5 stars

The Review: And the saga continues! Adele and Tristen are forced apart to deal with situations in different parts of the realms. Tawni and Roc continue to be the unflinching support system both of the MCs need, and I've enjoyed learning more about each of them. This second installment does have a feel of The Hunger Games vibe in terms of a rising resistance and an incorrigible president. But I'm okay with that. Adele and Tristen have to battle sickness, bullies, and street kids...and David had me sucked into every twist and turn. This was a well written sequel that made me start The Sun Dwellers right away.

The Good: Another fast read because the book is full of action and mounting tension. Some questions are answered, some more develop.

The Issue: Not enough time of Adele and Tristan together. I wanted to see more of their relationship building in an organic way - to avoid the dreaded insta-love. Perhaps I'll get my wish in The Sun Dwellers.

In Summary: A great sequel that moved the story forward.

Originally appeared at http://ambergarr.blogspot.com

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