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Of the Stars
You must choose:
Forsake your darkness
or Fight for it?
Norah Kestrel, a burned out mental health therapist in her late twenties, finds solace in helping others at Corvid's Hospital while locking away her own haunting wounds within the spare room of her Gothic home.
Magical happenstance introduces her to her newest friend and colleague, Dexteras Doe, an elderly man with amnesia and a fading sense of existence. Their captivating connection sparks an insatiable curiosity for their untold pasts.
Drawn into an underground fight club promising long-sought answers for spilled blood, Norah and Dex unravel the mysteries of their identities and the enigmatic beings lurking beneath the club's crimson neon. But as they confront their forgotten traumas, a chilling question arises: is their bond destined by the alignment of much darker stars?
—————————————
Embark on a modern, fantastical journey that showcases the found-families who teach us to fall in love with healing ourselves, and the found-families best left unfounded. Experience a psychological narrative that cares for its readers and empathizes with the tired and self-aware who go to therapy on behalf of the generations before them who did not. New and established adult audiences will find confidants in neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, and disabled characters and platonic soulmates learning to craft their identities from scratch while overcoming complex intergenerational curses, grief, and loneliness.
Trigger Warnings:
alcoholism, anxiety, blood, death/dying, depression, derealization, explicit
language, fire, grief, hospitalization/medical procedures, PTSD, panic
attacks, self-harm, serious injury, smoking, suicidal ideation, violence, and weapons.
Forsake your darkness
or Fight for it?
Norah Kestrel, a burned out mental health therapist in her late twenties, finds solace in helping others at Corvid's Hospital while locking away her own haunting wounds within the spare room of her Gothic home.
Magical happenstance introduces her to her newest friend and colleague, Dexteras Doe, an elderly man with amnesia and a fading sense of existence. Their captivating connection sparks an insatiable curiosity for their untold pasts.
Drawn into an underground fight club promising long-sought answers for spilled blood, Norah and Dex unravel the mysteries of their identities and the enigmatic beings lurking beneath the club's crimson neon. But as they confront their forgotten traumas, a chilling question arises: is their bond destined by the alignment of much darker stars?
—————————————
Embark on a modern, fantastical journey that showcases the found-families who teach us to fall in love with healing ourselves, and the found-families best left unfounded. Experience a psychological narrative that cares for its readers and empathizes with the tired and self-aware who go to therapy on behalf of the generations before them who did not. New and established adult audiences will find confidants in neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, and disabled characters and platonic soulmates learning to craft their identities from scratch while overcoming complex intergenerational curses, grief, and loneliness.
Trigger Warnings:
alcoholism, anxiety, blood, death/dying, depression, derealization, explicit
language, fire, grief, hospitalization/medical procedures, PTSD, panic
attacks, self-harm, serious injury, smoking, suicidal ideation, violence, and weapons.
- GenresFantasyContemporary
506 pages, Hardcover
First published September 15, 2023
6 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Alcedo
1 book17 followersA.M. Alcedo is a MSW, CSW, and licensed therapist with specialty training in trauma recovery. She adores the mental health field and the sacred space she’s permitted to hold for her clients. Much like Norah Kestrel, A.M. Alcedo has also found healing, hope, and power through grief, loss, and pain. Of the Stars orbits vulnerable characters and a raw hope that A.M. Alcedo very much needed when she was young, thus why her debut novel is written in solidarity for those who have survived loss and isolation. Of the Stars is a love letter to honor their story. It's to remind them that they are not alone, they are not forgotten, and that they and their voices matter.
Ava Mae is a wife to the kindest man in the galaxy and a mother to Pancake the calico and countless house plants. She is a lover of Puh’erh tea, anything matcha flavored, birdwatching with binoculars, illustrating, hiking to waterfalls, and getting new tattoos. Above all else, she feels her Purpose is to hold space for the sacred stuff of others.
Ava Mae is a wife to the kindest man in the galaxy and a mother to Pancake the calico and countless house plants. She is a lover of Puh’erh tea, anything matcha flavored, birdwatching with binoculars, illustrating, hiking to waterfalls, and getting new tattoos. Above all else, she feels her Purpose is to hold space for the sacred stuff of others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 21, 2024
*Please look at the trigger warning list before diving into this book*
This was a dark contemporary fiction with psychology elements. The author is a licensed therapist - so this book feels a lot like having a discussion with your therapist. It feels real - even through the fantasy/magical elements
« I’ve experienced more pain in my life than I thought a heart could survive »
This book can break you and heal you at the same time ❤️🩹
This was a dark contemporary fiction with psychology elements. The author is a licensed therapist - so this book feels a lot like having a discussion with your therapist. It feels real - even through the fantasy/magical elements
« I’ve experienced more pain in my life than I thought a heart could survive »
This book can break you and heal you at the same time ❤️🩹
September 19, 2023
To start off with. I ~adored~ the platonic relationship between Norah and Dex. That sort of relationship, in my experience, is a digging one for authors to do well but this one definitely did. The way those two slowly grow together and help heal each other and themselves is the chicken noodle soup to my soul. Honestly just about everyone in it needed a hug and fuzzy blanket.
Also, Norah’s burn out is SO REAL.
The setting for the book was also something I wasn’t very used to. It felt very steam-punky victorian, and a little magical but set in a sort of modern world with dangers simmering under the guise of perfectly normal things. After the majority of the world building was done in the first quarter of the book, it added a very interesting element as we see the characters react to their surroundings too.
My only complaint is that sometimes the language and descriptions, while beautiful, were not always necessary, or would take me out of the story and force me to reread sections to understand what was going on. Bordered on purple prose at times, especially at the beginning when the setting was being built up. But it was typically easy to skip without missing much important information.
The first part of the book may require some dedication to get through but I swear it’s worth it!
Full disclosure: I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review, but that did not affect my opinion the book.
Also, Norah’s burn out is SO REAL.
The setting for the book was also something I wasn’t very used to. It felt very steam-punky victorian, and a little magical but set in a sort of modern world with dangers simmering under the guise of perfectly normal things. After the majority of the world building was done in the first quarter of the book, it added a very interesting element as we see the characters react to their surroundings too.
My only complaint is that sometimes the language and descriptions, while beautiful, were not always necessary, or would take me out of the story and force me to reread sections to understand what was going on. Bordered on purple prose at times, especially at the beginning when the setting was being built up. But it was typically easy to skip without missing much important information.
The first part of the book may require some dedication to get through but I swear it’s worth it!
Full disclosure: I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review, but that did not affect my opinion the book.
July 27, 2023
From the summary I was fully ready to follow Norah, a small town therapist, on her journey as she finds herself in a new found friendship with an elderly man named Dex, who has a knack for languages and roof sitting. This story unfolds revealing both of their intertwined and complicated pasts that they will have to fight, literally and figuratively, tooth and nail to heal. I got so much more and loved every minute of this story.
I was expecting a dark mysterious fantasy story delving into Norah and Dex’s friendship with side characters peppered along the way. Along with a struggle to regain some of Dex’s lost past and heal Norah’s burnout. Which is true! However, I was NOT totally prepared to be absolutely transported to the dismal town of Corvid through the carefully crafted scenes and language that the author, Alcedo, uses. I found myself crying with Norah, throwing punches with Dex, angry for and with both of them, and my heart breaking in bittersweet love at the much needed healing both these characters embark upon.
The story does involve aspects of the tropes of found family and platonic soulmates. Which if you’ve read a lot of other fantasy books is not an easy trope to pull off in adult fantasy. I recommend preparing yourself a bit because this book is not for the faint of heart. Alcedo pulls no punches when delving into the psychological aspects of what it means to hold space for a hurting person you love. It is a story that everyone who has battled one iota of grief or trauma can relate to though. You will see many tough emotions layed out and beautifully written like a no holds barred love letter to all those hurting. It might be tough to see, but it’s oh so needed. This book holds out a hand to those who need to be seen and grips it warmly letting you know you’re going to make it to the other side. I have many quotes highlighted not just because I loved the writing, but because Alcedo does her job of being both therapist and author so well that I needed to save the phrases to read when my own skies are as gray as Corvid’s.
I loved the paranormal/magical elements of this story so much I found myself creating my own character to fit into Dex’s world and wondering what aspects of my life may have been affected by such a person like him. It’s a really neat concept that definitely set my creative mind buzzing with possibilities. I found myself relating it to a lot of celtic folklore and Greek mythology (without giving too much away.)
Full transparency: I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Of The Stars. Though it does not sway my opinions.
I was expecting a dark mysterious fantasy story delving into Norah and Dex’s friendship with side characters peppered along the way. Along with a struggle to regain some of Dex’s lost past and heal Norah’s burnout. Which is true! However, I was NOT totally prepared to be absolutely transported to the dismal town of Corvid through the carefully crafted scenes and language that the author, Alcedo, uses. I found myself crying with Norah, throwing punches with Dex, angry for and with both of them, and my heart breaking in bittersweet love at the much needed healing both these characters embark upon.
The story does involve aspects of the tropes of found family and platonic soulmates. Which if you’ve read a lot of other fantasy books is not an easy trope to pull off in adult fantasy. I recommend preparing yourself a bit because this book is not for the faint of heart. Alcedo pulls no punches when delving into the psychological aspects of what it means to hold space for a hurting person you love. It is a story that everyone who has battled one iota of grief or trauma can relate to though. You will see many tough emotions layed out and beautifully written like a no holds barred love letter to all those hurting. It might be tough to see, but it’s oh so needed. This book holds out a hand to those who need to be seen and grips it warmly letting you know you’re going to make it to the other side. I have many quotes highlighted not just because I loved the writing, but because Alcedo does her job of being both therapist and author so well that I needed to save the phrases to read when my own skies are as gray as Corvid’s.
I loved the paranormal/magical elements of this story so much I found myself creating my own character to fit into Dex’s world and wondering what aspects of my life may have been affected by such a person like him. It’s a really neat concept that definitely set my creative mind buzzing with possibilities. I found myself relating it to a lot of celtic folklore and Greek mythology (without giving too much away.)
Full transparency: I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Of The Stars. Though it does not sway my opinions.
September 27, 2023
Of The Stars is unlike any other books I've ever read. It is a powerful and emotionally resonant book that skillfully addresses themes of healing, trauma, self discovery, and found family. It is deeply immersive and emotionally charged story with elements of fantasy.
Norah Kestrel a mental health therapist discovers comfort in helping others at Corvid's Hospital while grappling with her own inner demons. Her encounter with Dex, an elderly man with amnesia, sparks curiosity about their unknown pasts. They become entangled in an underground fight club promising answers. As they uncover secrets and confront their traumas, they wonder if their bond is fated by darker stars?
The Author does a good job of creating a vivid atmosphere and richly detailed world. The dialogue between Norah and Dex is engaging and effectively conveys the depth of emotions the characters are experiencing, and also provides a nice balance to the descriptive narrative.
The portrayal of characters' struggles with grief and trauma is raw and authentic, it makes them relatable. The character development of Norah and Dex is well-executed, and their connection is palpable. The use of flashbacks and the intertwining of past and present add depth to the story.
The concept of Figments and their complex nature is unique and intriguing, the revelations towards the end are interesting and surprising.
The ending is heart-melting, it leaves the reader with sense of closure and hope, which gives a therapeutic quality to the book.
The author herself is therapist and her expertise are evident throughout the book.
Overall, Of The Stars is a compelling and relatable read that explores important themes while offering unique and engaging storyline. Readers who appreciate stories centered around self-discovery, and healing are likely to find this book thought-provoking and captivating.
Norah Kestrel a mental health therapist discovers comfort in helping others at Corvid's Hospital while grappling with her own inner demons. Her encounter with Dex, an elderly man with amnesia, sparks curiosity about their unknown pasts. They become entangled in an underground fight club promising answers. As they uncover secrets and confront their traumas, they wonder if their bond is fated by darker stars?
The Author does a good job of creating a vivid atmosphere and richly detailed world. The dialogue between Norah and Dex is engaging and effectively conveys the depth of emotions the characters are experiencing, and also provides a nice balance to the descriptive narrative.
The portrayal of characters' struggles with grief and trauma is raw and authentic, it makes them relatable. The character development of Norah and Dex is well-executed, and their connection is palpable. The use of flashbacks and the intertwining of past and present add depth to the story.
The concept of Figments and their complex nature is unique and intriguing, the revelations towards the end are interesting and surprising.
The ending is heart-melting, it leaves the reader with sense of closure and hope, which gives a therapeutic quality to the book.
The author herself is therapist and her expertise are evident throughout the book.
Overall, Of The Stars is a compelling and relatable read that explores important themes while offering unique and engaging storyline. Readers who appreciate stories centered around self-discovery, and healing are likely to find this book thought-provoking and captivating.
September 13, 2023
I wasn’t sure about it for a little while, but I am incredibly grateful that the author chose me to be one of her ARC readers.
Of The Stars is a beautiful read. It follows two struggling main characters as they discover a magical world that is based around a fighting ring. Reward for winning is discovery of yourself. Payment is spilled blood. This story makes you ask yourself what you would do to find out who you are, and how much you really want to know.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading. This book tackles a lot of really heavy topics that may be difficult for some people.
It is a truly beautiful story. If I’m being honest, I wasn’t sure where it was going for a while. It has no plot in the same way that The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue does, and most of us agree that that book is fantastic. It is a story about growth and overcoming your past. It shows that you aren’t what those around you tried to make you.
It has found family as a big trope and it is done really well. They want the best for each other, even if it’s at their own expense or if they don’t know how to get it for themselves.
I want more people to experience this book, so please read it when it comes out this Friday (09/15/23). You won’t regret it.
Of The Stars is a beautiful read. It follows two struggling main characters as they discover a magical world that is based around a fighting ring. Reward for winning is discovery of yourself. Payment is spilled blood. This story makes you ask yourself what you would do to find out who you are, and how much you really want to know.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading. This book tackles a lot of really heavy topics that may be difficult for some people.
It is a truly beautiful story. If I’m being honest, I wasn’t sure where it was going for a while. It has no plot in the same way that The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue does, and most of us agree that that book is fantastic. It is a story about growth and overcoming your past. It shows that you aren’t what those around you tried to make you.
It has found family as a big trope and it is done really well. They want the best for each other, even if it’s at their own expense or if they don’t know how to get it for themselves.
I want more people to experience this book, so please read it when it comes out this Friday (09/15/23). You won’t regret it.
January 5, 2024
Of The Stars is a contemporary fantasy with some gothic elements and was quite a different read for me with a very unique premise.
Written by a licensed therapist, we follow the story of platonic soulmates Norah and Dex through a healing journey that includes a magical underground f!ifht club. We also get:
Gothic Hospital
Dual POV
Neurodiversity
Mental Health Rep
Elemental Abilities
Fantasy Beings
Coping with Loss and Grief
The authors writing is beautiful and full of depth, allowing the story to build into an incredible journey. I really loved the relationship between Norah and Dex- especially how they met!
The last few chapters had me so enamored; I didn’t want the story to end and even now I want to know more of Norah’s story.
Written by a licensed therapist, we follow the story of platonic soulmates Norah and Dex through a healing journey that includes a magical underground f!ifht club. We also get:
Gothic Hospital
Dual POV
Neurodiversity
Mental Health Rep
Elemental Abilities
Fantasy Beings
Coping with Loss and Grief
The authors writing is beautiful and full of depth, allowing the story to build into an incredible journey. I really loved the relationship between Norah and Dex- especially how they met!
The last few chapters had me so enamored; I didn’t want the story to end and even now I want to know more of Norah’s story.
September 11, 2023
First, thank you to A.M. Alcedo for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Of The Stars is a brilliantly written, heartbreaking and heartmending literary fantasy. It is a story that centers on a gorgeous platonic relationship between two deeply traumatized people and their journey through grief by way of an underground fight club.
Norah is a grief stricken mental health care worker at a hospital. She is fierce and caring and needs hugs.
Dex is an amnesiac dapper older man who is the sweetest protector you’ll ever meet. He also needs hugs, but only from Norah.
Cecil is such a dark horse character. He’s grumpy, angry, and prefers fists over words. I love him.
Solus is a gorgeous gender fluid antagonist who has a complicated saviour complex.
All of the characters truly resonated with me in different ways and I adore them all.
Split up into three parts, this book is a bit of a slow start but it allows for deep connection to Norah and Dex. Part two is an emotional and violent and trauma driven journey. Part three is where the healing and the mending happen.
The writing style does sometimes toe the line with purple prose over lyrical description but for me it still works in keeping with the fantasy world and thematic tones.
Y’all. I have not read a book like this. It is so unique and anyone who is currently experiencing grief and loss, be gentle with your self. But just know it is a cathartic read.
If you like contemporary fantasy world, queer and neurodivergent and disability rep, books about grief and loss and fight clubs, please give this a read.
Of The Stars is a brilliantly written, heartbreaking and heartmending literary fantasy. It is a story that centers on a gorgeous platonic relationship between two deeply traumatized people and their journey through grief by way of an underground fight club.
Norah is a grief stricken mental health care worker at a hospital. She is fierce and caring and needs hugs.
Dex is an amnesiac dapper older man who is the sweetest protector you’ll ever meet. He also needs hugs, but only from Norah.
Cecil is such a dark horse character. He’s grumpy, angry, and prefers fists over words. I love him.
Solus is a gorgeous gender fluid antagonist who has a complicated saviour complex.
All of the characters truly resonated with me in different ways and I adore them all.
Split up into three parts, this book is a bit of a slow start but it allows for deep connection to Norah and Dex. Part two is an emotional and violent and trauma driven journey. Part three is where the healing and the mending happen.
The writing style does sometimes toe the line with purple prose over lyrical description but for me it still works in keeping with the fantasy world and thematic tones.
Y’all. I have not read a book like this. It is so unique and anyone who is currently experiencing grief and loss, be gentle with your self. But just know it is a cathartic read.
If you like contemporary fantasy world, queer and neurodivergent and disability rep, books about grief and loss and fight clubs, please give this a read.
August 9, 2023
First . . Let’s take a moment for this GORGEOUS cover
Now onto the review :
The book did take me some time to get started and through the first chapters. I found myself having to reread areas in the beginning where I felt maybe it was becoming too descriptive that I had to go back to remember what was actually happening in the story.
But in pushing through the beginning (because if you have EVER read a fantasy world building book you know you push through) I found a story of bond and friendship. The captivating connection between Dex and Nora was beautiful. It does dive into dark places but this story gave you the feeling of discovering who you are, healing, and the capability to forgive. You can definitely tell that Alcedo has a therapist background. A great story to read if you are going through a dark time and you need to know that “You are here. You are alive. You Matter. Your feelings are important.”
Now onto the review :
The book did take me some time to get started and through the first chapters. I found myself having to reread areas in the beginning where I felt maybe it was becoming too descriptive that I had to go back to remember what was actually happening in the story.
But in pushing through the beginning (because if you have EVER read a fantasy world building book you know you push through) I found a story of bond and friendship. The captivating connection between Dex and Nora was beautiful. It does dive into dark places but this story gave you the feeling of discovering who you are, healing, and the capability to forgive. You can definitely tell that Alcedo has a therapist background. A great story to read if you are going through a dark time and you need to know that “You are here. You are alive. You Matter. Your feelings are important.”
December 22, 2023
4.5!
Of The Stars is probably one of the most unique story concepts I have read in a long time.
With a dual perspective narrative that is both clinical and accessible, you follow two characters constantly riddled with inner conflict and good intentions.
Written by a licensed therapist, Of The Stars is the perfect example of why you shouldn't try to pour from an empty cup.
Nora is a brilliant and empathetic therapist who is struggling to come to terms with the trauma of her past, while wrestling with guilt, and an addiction to grief. Her ability to connect and guide her patients is admirable, especially considering how fiercely she runs from herself.
In a moment of intense emotion, she meets an ethereal man named Dex, who is equal parts shattered and whole. Dex has these strange abilities, that in his own disbelief, he turns from. Being unsure of himself is nothing he isn't used to, because Dex has no memory of himself. 20 years ago he fell (or jumped?) From a 12 story building, but miraculously was back on his feet in days.
Through an unlikely friendship, Dex and Nora find themselves on a hunt for memories, working through trauma, united in a shared fight (both figurative and literal). They uncover a secret arena of Figments who are seeking solace and safety, but are also engaged in violent bouts to try and regain their memories.
This book is so incredibly interesting and complex. Throughout the course of the story you keep feeling like you're missing something, but that's because you are. You go through the discoveries with the characters and learn as they do.
This story is exhausting and taxing but that's because, as fantastical as some of the elements are, the exhaustion of a mental health crisis and mental health work is so incredibly real.
If this sounds like your kind of story I highly recommend you give it a try!
What kept it from being 5 stars was mainly personal preference and a few minor editing mistakes.
There were a handful of spelling mistakes or typos maybe 8-10 that I saw, and although that's not a big deal it does take you out of the story.
And in terms of the writing and the flow, I absolutely did enjoy it but it was very heavy in descriptors. As I mentioned above I feel like this was part of the point of the book because mental health can feel so incredibly exhausting and so this may have been an intentional language device, but for me as a reader I felt it to be a bit taxing at times.
Beyond that I really did love the story!
Of The Stars is probably one of the most unique story concepts I have read in a long time.
With a dual perspective narrative that is both clinical and accessible, you follow two characters constantly riddled with inner conflict and good intentions.
Written by a licensed therapist, Of The Stars is the perfect example of why you shouldn't try to pour from an empty cup.
Nora is a brilliant and empathetic therapist who is struggling to come to terms with the trauma of her past, while wrestling with guilt, and an addiction to grief. Her ability to connect and guide her patients is admirable, especially considering how fiercely she runs from herself.
In a moment of intense emotion, she meets an ethereal man named Dex, who is equal parts shattered and whole. Dex has these strange abilities, that in his own disbelief, he turns from. Being unsure of himself is nothing he isn't used to, because Dex has no memory of himself. 20 years ago he fell (or jumped?) From a 12 story building, but miraculously was back on his feet in days.
Through an unlikely friendship, Dex and Nora find themselves on a hunt for memories, working through trauma, united in a shared fight (both figurative and literal). They uncover a secret arena of Figments who are seeking solace and safety, but are also engaged in violent bouts to try and regain their memories.
This book is so incredibly interesting and complex. Throughout the course of the story you keep feeling like you're missing something, but that's because you are. You go through the discoveries with the characters and learn as they do.
This story is exhausting and taxing but that's because, as fantastical as some of the elements are, the exhaustion of a mental health crisis and mental health work is so incredibly real.
If this sounds like your kind of story I highly recommend you give it a try!
What kept it from being 5 stars was mainly personal preference and a few minor editing mistakes.
There were a handful of spelling mistakes or typos maybe 8-10 that I saw, and although that's not a big deal it does take you out of the story.
And in terms of the writing and the flow, I absolutely did enjoy it but it was very heavy in descriptors. As I mentioned above I feel like this was part of the point of the book because mental health can feel so incredibly exhausting and so this may have been an intentional language device, but for me as a reader I felt it to be a bit taxing at times.
Beyond that I really did love the story!
September 15, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Of The Stars. After very quickly getting sucked into the story, I can honestly say that it is an incredibly moving story about finding/creating your own family, healing after trauma, creating and discovering identity, and learning to forgive yourself and others. Alcedo writes the main characters, Norah and Dex, in a way that makes them feel very real. The issues they face and the trauma they process are handled with so much care and respect and in a way that can be applied to many real life scenarios. This is a fantastic work of art. I cannot recommend it to anyone enough, but people who resonate with found family stories will find it especially moving. The story has its elements of whimsy and fantasy, but is still so very grounded in “the real world” that it feels like you could run into any of these characters at your local hospital or library. Overall, a great example of a debut novel and one that will be sticking with me for many years to come. Cannot wait to get my copy and revisit Norah and Dex again and again!
October 14, 2023
“Of the Stars” by A. M. Alcedo is a mythical tale that follows a young therapist who tirelessly takes on the great and inspiring task of digging into her patients’ souls, to find their lost hopes and dreams beneath all their pain.
Dexteras has been feeling oddly aged, a ghost and a wraith left to stroll Corvid’s lanes aimlessly. He spent many decades in this town after surviving a deadly accident. As fate would have it, the hospital that rescued him after The Fall puts forward to him a chance at reprieve. It needs a new translator who will interpret conversations between Therapist Norah Kestrel and her non-English speaking patients. As he makes his way into the hospital, Dexteras’ soul is broken due to a dark past, but unknown to him, the journey of recovering his lost self has just started.
Brilliant Norah Kestrel is a therapist who has been an oasis of hope and incentive to individuals with cognitive disintegration, self-hatred, and little to no regard for life. She beautifully and expertly drills wells of hope in frantic and helpless clients, both young and old. Dexteras’ entrance into her career orb sets ablaze a platonic friendship, that sees the two help each other confront their shady histories and hidden realities.
Captivating, heartfelt talks bring readers to encounter those who have no memory of what enjoyment is all about. A number of them owe their fates to emotionally and physically abusive upbringings and other unforgettable traumatic past events. Dexteras’ ability to translate various languages is a mystery that will astonish readers and a puzzle that will pique the curiosity of individuals with similar vocations.
This tale is highly emotional, and many of its characters have lived in the empty, desolate cove of grief and seclusion, or have hung back in the dark, warming their hands with their subtle yet aggressive fires. Readers will discover numerous heartbreaking back stories that intend to remind those who are feeling forgotten that their painful ordeals, though heartbreaking, can be triumphed over. Alcedo’s imagination, heartwarming prose, and experience place her debut novel in the highest rank of present-day mental wellness guides. Her obvious passion is to see lives transformed away from falsehoods that have stuck to the subconscious after confronting a tough situation.
“Of the Stars” by A.M. Alcedo portrays unconditional love from an uncommon stance. Its elements of fantasy ably usher one into a visceral experience and discovery of little-known concepts in the healing and recovery sphere. The book is a must-have for anyone desiring to retrieve their lost pursuits and anticipations, in a bid to have a better future.
Dexteras has been feeling oddly aged, a ghost and a wraith left to stroll Corvid’s lanes aimlessly. He spent many decades in this town after surviving a deadly accident. As fate would have it, the hospital that rescued him after The Fall puts forward to him a chance at reprieve. It needs a new translator who will interpret conversations between Therapist Norah Kestrel and her non-English speaking patients. As he makes his way into the hospital, Dexteras’ soul is broken due to a dark past, but unknown to him, the journey of recovering his lost self has just started.
Brilliant Norah Kestrel is a therapist who has been an oasis of hope and incentive to individuals with cognitive disintegration, self-hatred, and little to no regard for life. She beautifully and expertly drills wells of hope in frantic and helpless clients, both young and old. Dexteras’ entrance into her career orb sets ablaze a platonic friendship, that sees the two help each other confront their shady histories and hidden realities.
Captivating, heartfelt talks bring readers to encounter those who have no memory of what enjoyment is all about. A number of them owe their fates to emotionally and physically abusive upbringings and other unforgettable traumatic past events. Dexteras’ ability to translate various languages is a mystery that will astonish readers and a puzzle that will pique the curiosity of individuals with similar vocations.
This tale is highly emotional, and many of its characters have lived in the empty, desolate cove of grief and seclusion, or have hung back in the dark, warming their hands with their subtle yet aggressive fires. Readers will discover numerous heartbreaking back stories that intend to remind those who are feeling forgotten that their painful ordeals, though heartbreaking, can be triumphed over. Alcedo’s imagination, heartwarming prose, and experience place her debut novel in the highest rank of present-day mental wellness guides. Her obvious passion is to see lives transformed away from falsehoods that have stuck to the subconscious after confronting a tough situation.
“Of the Stars” by A.M. Alcedo portrays unconditional love from an uncommon stance. Its elements of fantasy ably usher one into a visceral experience and discovery of little-known concepts in the healing and recovery sphere. The book is a must-have for anyone desiring to retrieve their lost pursuits and anticipations, in a bid to have a better future.
September 15, 2023
“It was the deep ache to have a sense of family after difficult days. After amazing days.”
Happy release day to Of The Stars!
I was incredibly lucky to be an ARC reader for Of The Stars and I can honestly and genuinely say: this book is amazing. I am honored to have been able to engage with this work <3 I highly recommend!
Though the story is deeply steeped in fantasy, it feels real and authentic, which can be difficult to find in a darker fantasy genre. There are many pieces of fantasy media that use senseless violence and trauma to make the story “feel more real” yet only alienate the reader/viewer, but Of The Stars does not do that. All of the descriptions are purposeful (I would advise readers to look at trigger warnings and the note from the author at the front of the book but as someone with triggers concerning violence and death, none of the descriptions felt excessive). What’s more, the things that made the book feel real weren’t limited to darkness — it was the light of the characters.
Norah and Dex are such astounding characters and the author writes them in such a compelling way. I found myself nodding along to their thoughts and how they sorted through the events of their story. I felt so seen when Norah struggled with her feelings of guilt, grief, and determination, and I really loved how A.M. Alcedo didn’t shy away from the complexities of the healing process. Healing hurts and it felt good to have that shown through a beautiful story. The book also didn’t feel preachy or inauthentic when offering a light in the darkness. The struggles and the joy all felt deeply real.
I do wish that the book had gotten into the action a bit earlier — I liked seeing Norah and Dex establish their relationship but think it could have been accomplished in fewer chapters, though it was still a joy to read. The action was also so invigorating that I wished we could’ve gotten to it sooner, especially since that is what introduced more elements of the fantasy world existing beneath the surface of Corvid.
All in all, I loved this book and am very grateful to have read it. I read a digital ARC and am really looking forward to getting a hardcopy so I can underline all my favorite parts :) Congratulations, A.M. Alcedo! <3
Happy release day to Of The Stars!
I was incredibly lucky to be an ARC reader for Of The Stars and I can honestly and genuinely say: this book is amazing. I am honored to have been able to engage with this work <3 I highly recommend!
Though the story is deeply steeped in fantasy, it feels real and authentic, which can be difficult to find in a darker fantasy genre. There are many pieces of fantasy media that use senseless violence and trauma to make the story “feel more real” yet only alienate the reader/viewer, but Of The Stars does not do that. All of the descriptions are purposeful (I would advise readers to look at trigger warnings and the note from the author at the front of the book but as someone with triggers concerning violence and death, none of the descriptions felt excessive). What’s more, the things that made the book feel real weren’t limited to darkness — it was the light of the characters.
Norah and Dex are such astounding characters and the author writes them in such a compelling way. I found myself nodding along to their thoughts and how they sorted through the events of their story. I felt so seen when Norah struggled with her feelings of guilt, grief, and determination, and I really loved how A.M. Alcedo didn’t shy away from the complexities of the healing process. Healing hurts and it felt good to have that shown through a beautiful story. The book also didn’t feel preachy or inauthentic when offering a light in the darkness. The struggles and the joy all felt deeply real.
I do wish that the book had gotten into the action a bit earlier — I liked seeing Norah and Dex establish their relationship but think it could have been accomplished in fewer chapters, though it was still a joy to read. The action was also so invigorating that I wished we could’ve gotten to it sooner, especially since that is what introduced more elements of the fantasy world existing beneath the surface of Corvid.
All in all, I loved this book and am very grateful to have read it. I read a digital ARC and am really looking forward to getting a hardcopy so I can underline all my favorite parts :) Congratulations, A.M. Alcedo! <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2023
Of the Stars by A. M. Alcedo✨️🏨
genre: paranormal fantasy
format: epub arc
pages: 418
times read: 1
date (dd/mm/yy): 11/9/23-1/11/23
would reread: abso fucking lutely
tropes: platonic soulmates, found family, mental health rep,lost memories, magical underground fight club
rating: 4,8⭐
review:
like the last 4-5 books I reviewed, i found this book on netgalley and the synopsis caught my eye so i requested it and sure enough, they sent it to me
i actually rly loved this one, it had no romance and was just about friendship and mental health, the mcs, fmc Norah ‘Nor’ Kestrel, works at a hospital as a therapist and one day finds an old man, Dexteras ‘Dex’ Doe, on the rooftop of the hospital and they talk for a bit. some days later they meet again and she offers to help him find a job at the hospital as a translator for foreign patients. Dex is full of trauma and doesn’t rly know who he was in the past. as the plot thickens, Dex and Nor grow closer as friends and find themselves in the middle of an underground fight club for Figments, being like Dex that are born from people’s needs and fears that gave their memories to Sollus and this fight club us a way for them to get their memories back. Dex needs to get into fights in order to get his memories back and finally remember who he was. Dex ends up defeating Sollus and gets his memories back. after this him and Nor are forced to part ways, due to the fact that he’s no longer needed in Norah’s life.
this book was wholesome, i loved the characters sm, mainly Dex and Cecil, they were such good characters.
Dex and Nor’s friendship was one of the best I've ever read abt and the way they cared for one another made me warm inside, they were the definition of platonic soulmates and I cried sfm when he had to leave her cs like ughhh don’t go Dex.
his brief friendship with Alina made my heart ache, and the fact that he couldn't be there when she died made me so sad
genre: paranormal fantasy
format: epub arc
pages: 418
times read: 1
date (dd/mm/yy): 11/9/23-1/11/23
would reread: abso fucking lutely
tropes: platonic soulmates, found family, mental health rep,lost memories, magical underground fight club
rating: 4,8⭐
review:
like the last 4-5 books I reviewed, i found this book on netgalley and the synopsis caught my eye so i requested it and sure enough, they sent it to me
i actually rly loved this one, it had no romance and was just about friendship and mental health, the mcs, fmc Norah ‘Nor’ Kestrel, works at a hospital as a therapist and one day finds an old man, Dexteras ‘Dex’ Doe, on the rooftop of the hospital and they talk for a bit. some days later they meet again and she offers to help him find a job at the hospital as a translator for foreign patients. Dex is full of trauma and doesn’t rly know who he was in the past. as the plot thickens, Dex and Nor grow closer as friends and find themselves in the middle of an underground fight club for Figments, being like Dex that are born from people’s needs and fears that gave their memories to Sollus and this fight club us a way for them to get their memories back. Dex needs to get into fights in order to get his memories back and finally remember who he was. Dex ends up defeating Sollus and gets his memories back. after this him and Nor are forced to part ways, due to the fact that he’s no longer needed in Norah’s life.
this book was wholesome, i loved the characters sm, mainly Dex and Cecil, they were such good characters.
Dex and Nor’s friendship was one of the best I've ever read abt and the way they cared for one another made me warm inside, they were the definition of platonic soulmates and I cried sfm when he had to leave her cs like ughhh don’t go Dex.
his brief friendship with Alina made my heart ache, and the fact that he couldn't be there when she died made me so sad
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2023
This was a deep and fascinating contemporary fantasy that deals with real psychological themes.
𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘩 𝘒𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘭, 𝘢 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘥'𝘴 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘎𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘤 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦.
𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘸𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘨𝘶𝘦, 𝘋𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘴 𝘋𝘰𝘦, 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘮𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦. 𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘣 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨-𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥, 𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘦𝘹 𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘭𝘶𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘣'𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘯𝘦𝘰𝘯. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘴, 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴: 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴?
This book took me on a ride I was not expecting. The wonderful found family in the form of a platonic friendship between Norah and Dex was my favorite part; these characters are unique and flawed and have actual depth, which I see so many authors try and struggle to achieve but @writeminded nailed it. The journey and magic were also really interesting and detailed, it broke my heart and put back to together. Overall this was a great debut book that I do recommend giving a read.
Thank you to the author A.M. Alcedo for my review copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘩 𝘒𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘭, 𝘢 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘥'𝘴 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘎𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘤 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦.
𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘸𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘨𝘶𝘦, 𝘋𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘴 𝘋𝘰𝘦, 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘮𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦. 𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘣 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨-𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥, 𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘦𝘹 𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘭𝘶𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘣'𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘯𝘦𝘰𝘯. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘴, 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴: 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴?
This book took me on a ride I was not expecting. The wonderful found family in the form of a platonic friendship between Norah and Dex was my favorite part; these characters are unique and flawed and have actual depth, which I see so many authors try and struggle to achieve but @writeminded nailed it. The journey and magic were also really interesting and detailed, it broke my heart and put back to together. Overall this was a great debut book that I do recommend giving a read.
Thank you to the author A.M. Alcedo for my review copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 10, 2023
Of The Stars by A.M. Alcedo is a brilliantly narrated mythical tale following the life of Norah, a burnt out therapist in her late twenties and her magically happenstance meeting with Dexteras, an elderly man with amnesia. Their captivating connection sparks an insatiable curiosity for their untold pasts. But is their bond destined by the alignment of much darker stars?
The book is incredibly detailed and complex but will keep you glued to the pages with it’s compelling narration. Of The Stars has a very unique premise and very endearing but raw characters. The story explores themes of platonic love and found family. It also deals with psychological themes and complex relationships.
The characters have a lot of depth and are quite unique, flawed and feel very real. Also, I loved their dynamic and heartwarming equation.
This book was hopeful but also heartbreaking. I love how well the author understands and approaches mental health in this book. This story at the same time is also embellished with magical and supernatural elements which gives it a flair. It is a deep and fascinating story with hauntingly poetic prose and very exceptional writing.
It was such a wholesome read and I would absolutely recommend this to everyone!
The book is incredibly detailed and complex but will keep you glued to the pages with it’s compelling narration. Of The Stars has a very unique premise and very endearing but raw characters. The story explores themes of platonic love and found family. It also deals with psychological themes and complex relationships.
The characters have a lot of depth and are quite unique, flawed and feel very real. Also, I loved their dynamic and heartwarming equation.
This book was hopeful but also heartbreaking. I love how well the author understands and approaches mental health in this book. This story at the same time is also embellished with magical and supernatural elements which gives it a flair. It is a deep and fascinating story with hauntingly poetic prose and very exceptional writing.
It was such a wholesome read and I would absolutely recommend this to everyone!
January 10, 2024
I really loved the dedication of the book. It was beautiful and I think even if you aren’t going through something, those words become apart of you. I know that they did for me.
This book took me a bit to get through but I was very glad I did. It was emotional, raw and powerful. It tells you of life that not everyone knows about. It gives you an insight to what people are going through each and everyday.
When I started the first chapter I was very worried about Norah and the reasoning as to why she was on the roof. My mind went to the sad part and was hoping it wasn’t why she was. Then she sees an old man also on the roof. Then I wondered why Dex would be on the roof.
They both found a sense of peace sitting on the roof with their feelings, from what I gathered. It seemed to have put them in a space where they could think about all the happenings within their lives.
I loved that North was able to help Dex and get him a job at the hospital and use his language abilities.
As you keep reading you discover that Norah needs Dex just as much as he needs her. The forming of their friendship is beautiful. They both have been through a lot and at times I noticed myself having teary eyes.
This book took me a bit to get through but I was very glad I did. It was emotional, raw and powerful. It tells you of life that not everyone knows about. It gives you an insight to what people are going through each and everyday.
When I started the first chapter I was very worried about Norah and the reasoning as to why she was on the roof. My mind went to the sad part and was hoping it wasn’t why she was. Then she sees an old man also on the roof. Then I wondered why Dex would be on the roof.
They both found a sense of peace sitting on the roof with their feelings, from what I gathered. It seemed to have put them in a space where they could think about all the happenings within their lives.
I loved that North was able to help Dex and get him a job at the hospital and use his language abilities.
As you keep reading you discover that Norah needs Dex just as much as he needs her. The forming of their friendship is beautiful. They both have been through a lot and at times I noticed myself having teary eyes.
January 11, 2024
Of The Stars is an emotionally rich and beautifully written fantasy novel that intricately weaves the lives of its main characters, Norah Kestrel and Dexteras Doe, into a tapestry of mystery, healing, and self-discovery. 🌌✨
Norah, a young, burnt-out mental health therapist, and Dex, an elderly man with amnesia, form an unlikely yet profound connection. Their journey together, set against the backdrop of a Gothic home and an underground fight club, delves deep into themes of identity, trauma, and the supernatural. 🏠🥊 The narrative is crafted with a delicate balance of fantastical elements and psychological depth, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories. 📚💫
The author's skill in handling complex topics like grief, loss, and intergenerational trauma is commendable. The relationship between Norah and Dex is beautifully explored, evolving into a poignant father-daughter-like bond that is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. ❤️👨👧 Their journey is not just about confronting their past but also about crafting new identities and finding solace in each other.
The prose is exquisite, with each sentence carefully crafted to evoke a spectrum of emotions. The magical world created by the author is immersive and richly detailed, making the reader feel intimately connected to the characters and their struggles. 🌍✍️ This is particularly evident in how the book addresses the theme of healing, not just as a personal journey but as a generational responsibility.
For readers who enjoy a slow-burn plot that allows them to deeply connect with the characters, "Of The Stars" is a perfect choice. Its empathetic portrayal of neurodiverse and disabled characters adds layers of authenticity and inclusivity, making it a significant read in contemporary fantasy. 📖🌟
"Of The Stars" is a remarkable novel that offers a unique blend of fantasy and psychological insight. It's a testament to the power of found families, the complexity of human emotions, and the resilience needed to face and overcome life's challenges. This book is not just a story; it's an experience of vulnerability, strength, and the beauty of healing. 🌠🌈📚
Norah, a young, burnt-out mental health therapist, and Dex, an elderly man with amnesia, form an unlikely yet profound connection. Their journey together, set against the backdrop of a Gothic home and an underground fight club, delves deep into themes of identity, trauma, and the supernatural. 🏠🥊 The narrative is crafted with a delicate balance of fantastical elements and psychological depth, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories. 📚💫
The author's skill in handling complex topics like grief, loss, and intergenerational trauma is commendable. The relationship between Norah and Dex is beautifully explored, evolving into a poignant father-daughter-like bond that is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. ❤️👨👧 Their journey is not just about confronting their past but also about crafting new identities and finding solace in each other.
The prose is exquisite, with each sentence carefully crafted to evoke a spectrum of emotions. The magical world created by the author is immersive and richly detailed, making the reader feel intimately connected to the characters and their struggles. 🌍✍️ This is particularly evident in how the book addresses the theme of healing, not just as a personal journey but as a generational responsibility.
For readers who enjoy a slow-burn plot that allows them to deeply connect with the characters, "Of The Stars" is a perfect choice. Its empathetic portrayal of neurodiverse and disabled characters adds layers of authenticity and inclusivity, making it a significant read in contemporary fantasy. 📖🌟
"Of The Stars" is a remarkable novel that offers a unique blend of fantasy and psychological insight. It's a testament to the power of found families, the complexity of human emotions, and the resilience needed to face and overcome life's challenges. This book is not just a story; it's an experience of vulnerability, strength, and the beauty of healing. 🌠🌈📚
December 31, 2023
BOOK REVIEW: Of the Stars by A.M. Alcedo
👉🏻 A therapy session in a book. Go heal yourself.
I have so many good things to say about Of the Stars. Indie author @writemindedlefthanded has created a beautiful fantasy story with gorgeous prose and raw vulnerability. The magical world is stellar (haha, see what I did there) and the characters are written so well I feel like I know them.
Tackling difficult topics like grief, loss, and the healing that comes after and building a beautiful father-daughter-esque relationship between Dex and Norah, I found myself crying constantly, sniffling my way between chapters in the best possible way.
This is a character-driven book, with a plot that takes its time so the reader can feel, process, and enjoy every second.
👉🏻 A therapy session in a book. Go heal yourself.
I have so many good things to say about Of the Stars. Indie author @writemindedlefthanded has created a beautiful fantasy story with gorgeous prose and raw vulnerability. The magical world is stellar (haha, see what I did there) and the characters are written so well I feel like I know them.
Tackling difficult topics like grief, loss, and the healing that comes after and building a beautiful father-daughter-esque relationship between Dex and Norah, I found myself crying constantly, sniffling my way between chapters in the best possible way.
This is a character-driven book, with a plot that takes its time so the reader can feel, process, and enjoy every second.
October 5, 2023
I’m going to be processing this one for a bit. There were times where it lost me or I struggled to hold onto the plot but the final 20 percent brought it together in a deeply sad beauty.
Norah is a therapist with past trauma of her own. On a hard night she meets a man who is wrestling with his own pain, Dex. They form a friendship as they begin a professional partnership.
Then everything is turned on its head as part of Dex’s past comes back for him and drags Norah into an unseen world.
If you’ve experienced trauma or ever wished for a guardian angel or even just a friend this might deeply touch you.
Norah is a therapist with past trauma of her own. On a hard night she meets a man who is wrestling with his own pain, Dex. They form a friendship as they begin a professional partnership.
Then everything is turned on its head as part of Dex’s past comes back for him and drags Norah into an unseen world.
If you’ve experienced trauma or ever wished for a guardian angel or even just a friend this might deeply touch you.
November 29, 2023
EN: This is the magical story of a woman who wishes to free herself from her shadows and a man who wants to discover who he is. It's the tale of a platonic love that binds them far beyond what both can imagine. It's a story of hope for all those who feel lonely, hurt, broken.
In a gothic and somber setting, the author takes us through our own pains, in a work that is much more than just a work of fiction - it's a genuine succession of therapy sessions in the form of a book.
The descriptions of the settings and characters, as well as their emotional depth, engage readers in the story, surprising with every page.
In my opinion, the only critique goes to the first half of the book, which ended up having a slower and repetitive pace, but it was entirely compensated by the entire plot of the second half, which I devoured in two days.
I must say that this work is the best I've read this year and goes directly into my top 5 of all the books I've ever read. Its intensity completely enveloped me, and I really needed several days to recover from reading this book before moving on to the next one.
I want to express my gratitude to the author A.M. Alcedo and to the NetGalley website for providing this eBook. The opportunity was truly appreciated. I'm very excited about acquiring the hardcover version of the book, which looks beautiful.
PT: Esta é a história mágica de uma mulher que deseja libertar-se das suas sombras e de um homem que quer descobrir quem é. É a história de um amor platónico que os une muito para além do que ambos imaginam. É uma história de esperança para todos os que se sentem sós, magoados, partidos.
Num ambiente gótico e sombrio, a autora leva-nos às nossas próprias dores, numa obra que é muito mais do que meramente um livro de ficção - é uma autêntica sucessão de sessões de terapia em forma de livro.
As descrições dos ambientes e das personagens, bem como a sua riqueza emocional, envolvem os leitores na história, surpreendendo a cada página.
Na minha opinião, a única crítica vai para a primeira metade do livro que acabou por ter um ritmo mais lento e repetitivo, mas que foi totalmente compensada por toda a trama da segunda metade, a qual devorei em dois dias.
Tenho a dizer que esta obra é a melhor que li este ano e vai diretamente para o meu top 5 de todos os livros que já li. A sua intensidade envolveu-me completamente e precisei mesmo de vários dias para me refazer da leitura deste livro antes de seguir para o livro seguinte.
Quero expressar a minha gratidão à autora A.M. Alcedo e ao site NetGalley por disponibilizarem este eBook. A oportunidade foi verdadeiramente apreciada. Estou muito entusiasmada quanto à aquisição da versão de capa dura do livro que está lindíssima.
In a gothic and somber setting, the author takes us through our own pains, in a work that is much more than just a work of fiction - it's a genuine succession of therapy sessions in the form of a book.
The descriptions of the settings and characters, as well as their emotional depth, engage readers in the story, surprising with every page.
In my opinion, the only critique goes to the first half of the book, which ended up having a slower and repetitive pace, but it was entirely compensated by the entire plot of the second half, which I devoured in two days.
I must say that this work is the best I've read this year and goes directly into my top 5 of all the books I've ever read. Its intensity completely enveloped me, and I really needed several days to recover from reading this book before moving on to the next one.
I want to express my gratitude to the author A.M. Alcedo and to the NetGalley website for providing this eBook. The opportunity was truly appreciated. I'm very excited about acquiring the hardcover version of the book, which looks beautiful.
PT: Esta é a história mágica de uma mulher que deseja libertar-se das suas sombras e de um homem que quer descobrir quem é. É a história de um amor platónico que os une muito para além do que ambos imaginam. É uma história de esperança para todos os que se sentem sós, magoados, partidos.
Num ambiente gótico e sombrio, a autora leva-nos às nossas próprias dores, numa obra que é muito mais do que meramente um livro de ficção - é uma autêntica sucessão de sessões de terapia em forma de livro.
As descrições dos ambientes e das personagens, bem como a sua riqueza emocional, envolvem os leitores na história, surpreendendo a cada página.
Na minha opinião, a única crítica vai para a primeira metade do livro que acabou por ter um ritmo mais lento e repetitivo, mas que foi totalmente compensada por toda a trama da segunda metade, a qual devorei em dois dias.
Tenho a dizer que esta obra é a melhor que li este ano e vai diretamente para o meu top 5 de todos os livros que já li. A sua intensidade envolveu-me completamente e precisei mesmo de vários dias para me refazer da leitura deste livro antes de seguir para o livro seguinte.
Quero expressar a minha gratidão à autora A.M. Alcedo e ao site NetGalley por disponibilizarem este eBook. A oportunidade foi verdadeiramente apreciada. Estou muito entusiasmada quanto à aquisição da versão de capa dura do livro que está lindíssima.
January 8, 2024
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars for me!!!
A powerfully emotional rollercoaster that will break your heart and mend it simultaneously. You will heal alongside the characters, like therapy in a book (in a good way). It was easy to get lost in the pages and let the tears roll.
The platonic relationship with Dex and Norah that could have easily become boring and redundant but was masterfully curated. The healing that comes with a genuine platonic soulmate that helps you embark on a journey to deal with difficult issues like grief and loss while keeping you entertained with fantasy elements and fight clubs is next level.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars for me!!!
A powerfully emotional rollercoaster that will break your heart and mend it simultaneously. You will heal alongside the characters, like therapy in a book (in a good way). It was easy to get lost in the pages and let the tears roll.
The platonic relationship with Dex and Norah that could have easily become boring and redundant but was masterfully curated. The healing that comes with a genuine platonic soulmate that helps you embark on a journey to deal with difficult issues like grief and loss while keeping you entertained with fantasy elements and fight clubs is next level.
September 15, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and BookBuzz for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars!!
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story, but I ended up really enjoying it. The beginning was slower to start due to the world building, but once you get past that it's truly captivating. The relationship between Norah and Dex became a favorite of mine. Their platonic friendship was written so well that it became tangible. This story covers grief, found family, mental health, and fantasy components. I will add that most of this story read like a poem for me. It was a slower read, not due to any negative reason, but simply because I would read and have to process what I had read. This was an enjoyable read!
3.5 Stars!!
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story, but I ended up really enjoying it. The beginning was slower to start due to the world building, but once you get past that it's truly captivating. The relationship between Norah and Dex became a favorite of mine. Their platonic friendship was written so well that it became tangible. This story covers grief, found family, mental health, and fantasy components. I will add that most of this story read like a poem for me. It was a slower read, not due to any negative reason, but simply because I would read and have to process what I had read. This was an enjoyable read!
January 9, 2024
This was not my typical genre I tend to read but I’m glad I judged this book by its cover! And c’mon can you blame me? Stunning. The story was so well written and it captivated me by the gothic tones and truly took me on a bittersweet journey. The father/daughter duo was so endearing and squeezed my heart. It is a stand alone, which was such a nice reprieve to have all questions and loose ends tied up in one book. This beautiful story covers some heavy content so check out the TWs to make sure it’s a right fit for you.
September 3, 2023
I received an ARC of this and am so glad I did. The lyrical descriptions draw you in but also make it a little difficult to get completely sucked in. Typical fantasy world-building book where it’s tough to get going but all of a sudden you can’t put it down.
Dex is a character I loved right from the beginning. You can’t help but love him. Norah has nuances and layers that I loved getting to peel back as the story progressed.
No spoilers here, just a recommendation to read if you want a great fantasy with a great platonic relationship storyline.
Dex is a character I loved right from the beginning. You can’t help but love him. Norah has nuances and layers that I loved getting to peel back as the story progressed.
No spoilers here, just a recommendation to read if you want a great fantasy with a great platonic relationship storyline.
March 4, 2024
I'm really glad I read the book. The language about understanding and impacting trauma is so helpful, and because it's a novel, you don't feel like you're reading a self-help book (even though you're learning tidbits for yourself!). So excited to see what comes next from this author!
dnf
October 19, 2023Unfortunately, I don't think the prose of this book is for me, which is such a bummer when everything about the concept seemed right up my alley. I love existentialism, and I love books that have realistic and well-rounded portrayals of therapy, and the parts I read that had a therapeutic aspect to them were wonderful. I know the author is a therapist IRL, and I think that aspect really shines through.
I got to about 13% and decided that it was probably better to just move on to other things in my TBR. Maybe I'll come back to it later, maybe not.
I got to about 13% and decided that it was probably better to just move on to other things in my TBR. Maybe I'll come back to it later, maybe not.
September 15, 2023
After I read the blurb for Of the Stars, I was dying to get on the list for an ARC. Mental health rep, therapist FMC, platonic soulmates, fantasy, gothic vibes. Need I go on? I was lucky enough to read this the month before it releases, and I can already tell this is a book I will be
digesting for weeks to come. I was originally interested in this book because of my education in mental health counseling and my experience with trauma and neurodivergence. While many novels highlight character growth and experiences of various
diagnoses from depression, anxiety, trauma, etc., A.M. Alcedo took it a step further through the personification of generational trauma and the emotions/struggles that accompany it. You also experience the imposter syndrome, emotional burnout, countertransference, mental health triggers, constant need for self-awareness/ growth, and savior guilt that therapists can struggle with
every day. The first 1/3 of the book can be intimidating with the abundance of beautiful poetic descriptions, world development, and relationship-building. As anyone desperate to uncover the truth, I became impatient to unfold the mystery of Dexteros's path. It is, without a
doubt, worth it to pace yourself and digest it part by part. By the novel's end, I was SO emotionally involved in the companionship between Norah and Dex, the epitome of platonic soulmates. It was an ending I did NOT expect,
but it was nothing completely out of left field or unbelievable. It all wove together seamlessly. Important themes/takeaways: the importance of human connection and how being/feeling SEEN by others can make a strong, positive, and everlasting impact on someone. We don't need others to validate who we are, but there is security and companionship in having others
validate our emotions and our experiences. Congratulations on your accomplishment of this
beautifully crafter debut novel, Ava Mae!
digesting for weeks to come. I was originally interested in this book because of my education in mental health counseling and my experience with trauma and neurodivergence. While many novels highlight character growth and experiences of various
diagnoses from depression, anxiety, trauma, etc., A.M. Alcedo took it a step further through the personification of generational trauma and the emotions/struggles that accompany it. You also experience the imposter syndrome, emotional burnout, countertransference, mental health triggers, constant need for self-awareness/ growth, and savior guilt that therapists can struggle with
every day. The first 1/3 of the book can be intimidating with the abundance of beautiful poetic descriptions, world development, and relationship-building. As anyone desperate to uncover the truth, I became impatient to unfold the mystery of Dexteros's path. It is, without a
doubt, worth it to pace yourself and digest it part by part. By the novel's end, I was SO emotionally involved in the companionship between Norah and Dex, the epitome of platonic soulmates. It was an ending I did NOT expect,
but it was nothing completely out of left field or unbelievable. It all wove together seamlessly. Important themes/takeaways: the importance of human connection and how being/feeling SEEN by others can make a strong, positive, and everlasting impact on someone. We don't need others to validate who we are, but there is security and companionship in having others
validate our emotions and our experiences. Congratulations on your accomplishment of this
beautifully crafter debut novel, Ava Mae!
August 15, 2023
After I read the blurb for Of the Stars, I was dying to get on the list for an ARC. Mental health rep, therapist FMC, platonic soulmates, fantasy, gothic vibes. Need I go on? I was lucky enough to read this the month before it releases, and I can already tell this is a book I will be digesting for weeks to come.
I was originally interested in this book because of my education in mental health counseling and my experience with trauma and neurodivergence. While many novels highlight character growth and experiences of various diagnoses from depression, anxiety, trauma, etc., A.M. Alcedo took it a step further through the personification of generational trauma and the emotions/struggles that accompany it. You also experience the imposter syndrome, emotional burnout, countertransference, mental health triggers, constant need for self-awareness/growth, and savior guilt that therapists can struggle with every day.
The first 1/3 of the book can be intimidating with the abundance of beautiful poetic descriptions, world development, and relationship-building. As anyone desperate to uncover the truth, I became impatient to unfold the mystery of Dexteros's path. It is, without a doubt, worth it to pace yourself and digest it part by part. By the novel's end, I was SO emotionally involved in the companionship between Norah and Dex, the epitome of platonic soulmates. It was an ending I did NOT expect, but it was nothing completely out of left field or unbelievable. It all wove together seamlessly.
Important themes/takeaways: the importance of human connection and how being/feeling SEEN by others can make a strong, positive, and everlasting impact on someone. We don't need others to validate who we are, but there is security and companionship in having others validate our emotions and our experiences.
Congratulations on your accomplishment of this beautifully crafter debut novel, Ava Mae!
I was originally interested in this book because of my education in mental health counseling and my experience with trauma and neurodivergence. While many novels highlight character growth and experiences of various diagnoses from depression, anxiety, trauma, etc., A.M. Alcedo took it a step further through the personification of generational trauma and the emotions/struggles that accompany it. You also experience the imposter syndrome, emotional burnout, countertransference, mental health triggers, constant need for self-awareness/growth, and savior guilt that therapists can struggle with every day.
The first 1/3 of the book can be intimidating with the abundance of beautiful poetic descriptions, world development, and relationship-building. As anyone desperate to uncover the truth, I became impatient to unfold the mystery of Dexteros's path. It is, without a doubt, worth it to pace yourself and digest it part by part. By the novel's end, I was SO emotionally involved in the companionship between Norah and Dex, the epitome of platonic soulmates. It was an ending I did NOT expect, but it was nothing completely out of left field or unbelievable. It all wove together seamlessly.
Important themes/takeaways: the importance of human connection and how being/feeling SEEN by others can make a strong, positive, and everlasting impact on someone. We don't need others to validate who we are, but there is security and companionship in having others validate our emotions and our experiences.
Congratulations on your accomplishment of this beautifully crafter debut novel, Ava Mae!
July 26, 2023
I got the pleasure of being an ARC reader for Of The Stars.
The story follows a therapist Norah as she meets a new man in the small town, and develops a friendship with him. She ends up getting him a job at the hospital she works at as an interpreter, since he specializes in linguistics. It slowly comes out that he has a past, and a history with the hospital, that is unknown to him. You learn about his past, as well as Norah’s, throughout the book. It got confusing at times when you enter the magical world and start learning new phrases, but it’s only because Dex is confused by it and learning at the same time.
I absolutely loved the relationships built throughout the story! Each character truly dives into their past, traumas, and you get to experience their healing. You can tell that Alcedo is a trained therapist, and she writes what she knows. I loved how she showed how someone could be there for others, while also feeling helpless towards her own feelings.
The author had such a unique way of mixing real world with magical elements. It was easy to follow along and understand what world you’re in. I could have done with more magical elements, but it fit the town they were in.
Prepare yourself for an emotional dive!! I felt like I completed a 10 week therapy session after!! I’m the best way possible.
The story follows a therapist Norah as she meets a new man in the small town, and develops a friendship with him. She ends up getting him a job at the hospital she works at as an interpreter, since he specializes in linguistics. It slowly comes out that he has a past, and a history with the hospital, that is unknown to him. You learn about his past, as well as Norah’s, throughout the book. It got confusing at times when you enter the magical world and start learning new phrases, but it’s only because Dex is confused by it and learning at the same time.
I absolutely loved the relationships built throughout the story! Each character truly dives into their past, traumas, and you get to experience their healing. You can tell that Alcedo is a trained therapist, and she writes what she knows. I loved how she showed how someone could be there for others, while also feeling helpless towards her own feelings.
The author had such a unique way of mixing real world with magical elements. It was easy to follow along and understand what world you’re in. I could have done with more magical elements, but it fit the town they were in.
Prepare yourself for an emotional dive!! I felt like I completed a 10 week therapy session after!! I’m the best way possible.
December 5, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and of course the author for gifting me this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Fantastic book! A definite 5* read. Full of fantasy and adventure and the importance of allowing ourselves to heal. As a nurse and someone who is more spiritual than religious, this book really sang to me.
Fantastic book! A definite 5* read. Full of fantasy and adventure and the importance of allowing ourselves to heal. As a nurse and someone who is more spiritual than religious, this book really sang to me.
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