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Golden Eyed Legend: Legendary Stars Saga Book 1

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Gifted and Hunted… The Universe Chose Him

Now his choices will either save his people... or destroy them.

Raised in the shantytown of Lower Ember, Jai, an amnesiac, is ready to accept his fate as no more than a mere blacksmith. Wondering if the Heavenly Stars have denied him, he hides his seemingly useless Fireheart powers. . . Until fate takes a turn and he saves a member of Pyroc, an enemy nation whose people can morph into deadly dragons. Fleeing for his life, Jai realizes that his purpose is far greater than what he could have ever imagined. However, his purpose has brought a death wish upon him.

Now he has two do what he has always done and allow himself to die, or does he accept fate and become the Golden-Eyed Legend?

263 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 11, 2024

7 people are currently reading
62 people want to read

About the author

Dai'Ja S. Rose

6 books15 followers

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5 stars
14 (35%)
4 stars
14 (35%)
3 stars
9 (23%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
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2 (5%)
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Leanna Streeter.
412 reviews41 followers
May 21, 2025
This is a solid epic fantasy with an elemental magic system, fast pacing, and a strong focus on political intrigue. The world has a lot of depth, and the action keeps the story moving.

The audiobook was well done—the narrator delivered a smooth performance that added to the experience without distracting from the plot.

If you enjoy stories with elemental powers, layered politics, and immersive world-building, this one is worth checking out. It gave me definite Avatar: The Last Airbender vibes in terms of magic and atmosphere.
Profile Image for megzlibrary .
59 reviews3 followers
January 19, 2024
Invigorating, revitalizing, energizing.

Dai’ja S. Rose creates a colossal of a universe that empowers the readers to immerse themselves fully. This book is action packed from the very start to the very end. Though it seems as if the story is running quickly, it satisfies the notion of not getting boring and keeps you interested to its entirety.

The story follows a teenage boy, Jai, who posses a special power given to him by the universe. With the help of some interesting friends, he must control and develop his powers for the good of mankind.

For a debut novel, I must say this series has become one of my favorites. The writing is spectacular, the story is exhilarating and the characters are intriguing.

I will admit, this series will do well with the younger generation of readers, but that should not deter you from enjoying this book.

I’m not one to give 5 stars freely, there are many factors I examine when reading a book and Golden Eyed Legend fulfills each one of them.

I am currently reading an advanced review copy for the second book to this series and I am quite excited to see what happens next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Bri.
13 reviews10 followers
December 24, 2023
Jai’s character had me hooked from the very beginning! Navigating his impossible fate and accepting the reality of his new found purpose was an exhilarating journey. This is one for those who struggle to find intention and those ever faced with a life or death choice.
Profile Image for paris.
243 reviews48 followers
December 25, 2023
Golden Eyed Legend is the perfect book for a fantasy lover, and the perfect book if you don’t know fantasy or are new to it.

I love the world building and the characters arcs, calida was my favorite i love a strong willed woman! This book gave me avatar the last Airbender vibes in the best way! It was action packed and hard to put down as you wanted to continually know what happened next.

For a debut novel especially in fantasy i can say this checks all the boxes, amazing world building, likeable characters, great buildup and character arcs and an ability to keep you engaged from the very first chapter.

if i had to use one word to describe this book it would be impactful, you feel something from every character and it adds to the story.

Thank you daija for the arc i had such a great time reading this 🫶🏾
Profile Image for Jacayah McDowell.
26 reviews
January 13, 2024
“Let the universe guide your path, and you’re bound to find greatness”

I have devoured this book since Chapter 1. If you are just getting into Fantasy like myself you need to read this immediately! I love the world building aspect of this story but I love how Jai’s story is told even more. With the people whom he trusted the most turning their backs on him, he must find a way to navigate this new world and his new abilities with his new alliances. Jai must learn to use his new skills as he hopes to be the great legend that everyone is expecting him to be. I think one of my biggest takeaways from the story that we could use in real life is the above quote from the book. All in all, if you think that you could start this book and simply just put it down, you are absolutely wholeheartedly wrong! I cannot wait to start book 2 of the legends story!!!
Profile Image for Alexis Almanzar.
38 reviews7 followers
December 3, 2023
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book was super easy to read and follow! It kept me intrigued, and it never had a dull moment. When reading this book, I felt like it was a perfect read for a younger crowd, like 14-18.

I liked that Jai, the MC, was always optimistic, even being dealt the worst hands in his 19 years of life.

The end of this book takes a big turn and leaves you wondering what is next. I’m excited to see what this author has in store for the next one!

If you enjoy easy to read, fast paced young adult fantasy books, this is for you.
Profile Image for Mar.
53 reviews34 followers
December 13, 2023
I am leaving an honest review from an ARC reading experience. This book was a breath of fresh air for fantasy readers. Felt like Avatar and a fantasy book combo with a plot arc that doesn’t follow the traditional fantasy plot line, which I personally found refreshing
Profile Image for Darina’s Reads.
248 reviews14 followers
September 30, 2025
3.5 stars rounded to 4. Full video review is available at DarinasReads BookTok https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTMjLcP5S/

It’s a YA fast-paced fantasy about a 19-y.o. young man who lost his family as a child and was raised in slums by a blacksmith who found him. Jai can’t remember his parents. He also has a gift of light that he has to conceal because being gifted equals being an outlaw.

One day he uses his gift to save a man and exposes himself in the process. Now he has to flee. While on a run, he was told that his gifts are special and his arrival was anticipated for almost 300 years. He is the Golden Eyed Legend and his mission is to bring peace to his world.

I like that Jai doesn’t know anything about this Legend stuff, he is not privy to any information about other tribes, their history, their politics.

The unfolding of the story really brings us into Jai’s shoes of being thrown into the unknown and trying to navigate these wild waves of new people and their interactions.

He accepts that he is the Legend because he doesn’t have any other choice - he is different and he is now outlaw. But I like that he accepts it not blindly but with caution. He is not afraid to speak up when he sees BS even when the rest just go with the flow.

I like how the book brings the topic of sibling jealousy and rivalry to the front of the story from the jealous sibling perspective.

Dialogues while being entirely life-like can also be a little bit hard to follow because they are back and forth without indication who said what or additional description like “he replied with a frown” or “her voice pitched higher than normal”. None of it. It’s like watching a ping pong match or like in a movie. It makes it faster to read but that’s also makes it more confusing at times.

Too many names introduced at once resulted in a confusing name mix up in chapter 4.

Also, the timelines are confusing as well. Unless they live 150 years or more, I couldn’t help but notice the inconsistency. The time between two Legends is 2-3 centuries. Yet the characters’ grandparents were alive during the previous Legend and they say that now it is time for a next one, meaning that at least 200 years have passed. So, maybe just these people live longer than humans. Or the year is shorter than ours.

My favourite beautiful quote:

“Let the Universe guide your path, and you’re bound to find greatness!”

(Golden Eyed Legend, Chapter 10).

I would say that this book is mainly for YA audience who love fast-paced easy to read fantasy.

I can’t say that this book was for me. Too many new characters at a time, lots and lots of confusing names taking place within a single paragraph, back and forth dialogues without additional explanation. Not all actions made sense. I felt as if I was missing something. As if I started watching a TV show mid-season and was struggling to catch up and fill in the blanks.

It is Book 1 out of 4. So, probably Book 2 has more of world building and additional information.
Profile Image for Theladyraven.
82 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2023
If you are a fan of Avatar ( not the blue people one) then you will enjoy this fast paced , magical , and fun story.

Our story follows a boy who is unfortunately orphaned but taken in. That is until it is discovered he has elemental magic. With tensions high between those with and those without magic ability, he is forced to flee the only home he has ever known. He will learn how to control his new found abilities while making friends along the way .

I liked the story overall , it is fast paced , easy to follow, and who doesn’t like a bending elemental magic system? This story primarily takes place in two places , with one being a dragon fire kingdom.
I liked the optimism of our MMC. He is forced to endure a lot of hardship from start to finish but he keeps himself moving forward , of course he has friends to help him along the way. I like the banter and camaraderie between the group as well.

I will say the storyline is relatively simple but it makes for a good quick read. I also felt the descriptions of characters were relatively simple but also every single woman in the story is incredibly beautiful. I’m not saying that is not a possibility but more creativity with descriptive terms and even just appearances would make it more relatable and less repetitive.

Overall if you want your next magical read, you’ll definitely want to check this one out!! I cannot wait to continue this story in the next installment and see where it goes .
19 reviews2 followers
January 10, 2025
I thought that it was a really good book it started off a little slow but I think I was just getting used to the storyline and after I understood what was happening I really liked it! This book is a fantasy book about a kingdom where people either have powers or they don’t and they are determined depending on if you believe in the universal order or not. Those that don’t believe have their abilities stripped from them while those that do believe remain with their unique powers. This series follows legends they call them which are like the leaders of the kingdom, there are always 4 (land, air, water, and fire) this book we learn about the fire legend. He wants to try and bring the legends together to right the wrongs of past legends but they run into trouble when an opposing enemy wants to destroy him and the universal order. The book leaves off on a cliffhanger and we will find out if the fire legend will be able to defeat the enemy. Overall I recommend the book and I’m excited to read the next one!
Profile Image for Chasity Trimble.
500 reviews22 followers
November 2, 2025
Golden Eyed Legend is the first book in the Legendary Stars Saga, and the first book I’ve read by this author. You follow Jai, an amnesiac and young blacksmith from Lower Ember. Jai’s just trying to live his life, until he finds out he’s got hidden Fireheart powers. Things get wild when he saves a member of the enemy nation Pyroc, whose people can transform into dragons. Jai is thrust into a world of danger and destiny. Now, he must decide whether to stay hidden and safe, or embrace his fate as the Golden-Eyed Legend.

The world-building is super immersive, you can really picture the elemental magic and dragon lore, and Jai himself is a likable, optimistic hero who keeps you rooting for him even when things get messy. It’s fast-paced, adventurous, and just the right mix of magic and personal growth. It’s adventurous, fun, and perfect for readers who like their fantasy with heart, magic, humor, a touch of epic stakes and an ending that will have you waiting on the next book!
Profile Image for Destiny Imperati.
1,066 reviews39 followers
March 2, 2025
ARC Review ✨️

♡Amazing Debut Fantasy♡

Jai is a blacksmith and has powers. He's distraught because he thinks he has been denied, so he hides his powers. Until one day, when he saves a member of Pyroc (a place where the people have the ability to morph into dragons). Now, he realizes that his powers are meant for something much greater, but now he has to be careful because there's a death wish on him.

I loved this book so much and thought it was an incredible debut! The characters were very well developed and highly loveable! 🙌🖤 There's a couple of underlying messages within this story, and I thought that was amazing!

Tropes:
✨️YA Fantasy
🖤Magical realism
✨️Debut novel
🖤Action packed

Thanks so much to the author for the ARC!
Profile Image for Ewelina.
23 reviews1 follower
November 23, 2024
Thank you Dai’Ja for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review

I highly recommend this book for teens

Tropes:
Fantasy
Romance subplot (in book 1 very innocent and cute with blushing and small touches)
Friendship
Adventure

Author created complex and unique worldbuilding and magic system. Characters and plot were interesting. I loved writing style and the only note that I have is that some of the small issues that happened in the book were resolved too fast. It was fun to read and there were important topics included.

If I were teenager me I would be obsessed with this book and I would rate it 5* with no notes
Profile Image for Girl-Bibliobibuli.
40 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2024
Dai'Ja S. Rose's Legendary Stars Saga emerges as a standout in contemporary fantasy literature, showcasing rich world-building, compelling character.
In "Golden Eyed Legend," Dai'Ja S. Rose introduces readers to Jai, a humble blacksmith whose discovery of latent Fireheart powers sets him on an unexpected journey. Rose skillfully constructs a world of ancient prophecies and elemental abilities, blending political intrigue with personal growth. While the pacing occasionally stumbles, the narrative brims with tension and promise, establishing a strong foundation for the trilogy.
Profile Image for Sophy.
617 reviews6 followers
February 23, 2025
This author has created a captivating series where each book delves into a different character's story while seamlessly advancing the overarching narrative. In this world, there are "Legends," and we are privileged to witness their transformative journeys of self-discovery.

This particular installment centers on a young man raised as a blacksmith, with no memory of his parents. When tragedy shatters his world, he embarks on a life-altering odyssey. This gripping tale of adventure, fate, and self-discovery leaves me eagerly anticipating the next book in the series!
174 reviews1 follower
December 7, 2024
The Fire Within. This is an exciting, fast-paced book. It is about the battle of the elements and power. I liked how Jay always tries to let the good within himself dictate his actions. Helping the needy is more important than the side of society he belongs to. The author's writing style kept me hooked throughout the book, and when I finished, I was surprised. I can't wait to read the rest of the story.
This book is for fantasy readers who love elements and mythological creatures.
Profile Image for Alicia  Edgell.
33 reviews
November 17, 2024
I was drawn in from the start. Dai'Ja did an amazing job with the world building and character development. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone wanting to dip their toes into the fantasy world of books. Thank you Dai'Ja for this awesome read. Now on to the next book in this wonderful saga!
Profile Image for Kristina.
15 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2025
This book begins with a "motto" and a prayer...a prayer that made me so curious for what would unfold within the pages of this book. The pace of this book is consistent. The character development and world building is great. This author's ability to make me feel for these characters is amazing. Lost memories and a twist I did not see coming. I cannot wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for iesha Bright.
524 reviews19 followers
March 6, 2025
3.5
this was an awesome book. the world the author built was amazing. i have to say reding this i think even my teen daughter would enjoy it. the writing was addicting and i found i couldnt put it down. it gave me avatar vibes and i love that show so i quickly became a fan of this novel and look forward to reading the next.
Profile Image for Melissa Hughes.
21 reviews4 followers
July 22, 2024
Wow this was a wild ride. Following Jai on his journey in discovering who he really is. There is a lot of character building in the first 40% you get to know a Lot of people. If you are a fan of fantasy, and fate, then this book is for you! Cant wait to start book 2🖤🖤
Profile Image for Marissa Black.
223 reviews5 followers
August 23, 2024
Jai is an amnesiac trying to hide his abilities for fear of being turned out on the street or worse. Until he finds out he’s actually one of 4 elemental legends fated to either save or doom the earth. I loved the setup of this book and how it also sets up the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Jordan Smith.
2 reviews
February 8, 2025
I wanted so badly to like this book. It has such a good premise/idea but the writing definitely needs some work. It was like a was reading a middle school creative writing assignment. I’m so sorry!
Profile Image for bookish.and.girlish.
147 reviews3 followers
June 27, 2025
I’m a big fan of The Avatar (The Last Airbender) and this book has some similarities. My only problem is trying to remember who’s who. Other than that, it was okay!
Profile Image for Shana Morris.
77 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2024
The Golden Eyed Legend is an excellent start to a new fantasy series from this debut author! I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the world building and the author’s writing style really brings the story to life.

The story hooks you from the beginning and keeps you turning those pages to see what happens next. We meet Jai who is an amnesiac and can’t remember anything from his past, nothing, not even his family. He lives in Lower Ember as a blacksmith but he isn’t just a blacksmith, he has a gift from the Universe. No one can learn he has a gift or he would be exiled.

The Universe chose him….will he choose to become the Golden Eyed Legend and save his people or will he destroy them?

While this book would be really good for upper teens, I still feel like you will love this book if you love a good fantasy. Check out Book 2 in this series, The Silver Eyed Seer. You won’t be disappointed.
Profile Image for Danielle Barraza.
183 reviews4 followers
June 20, 2025
“𝓛𝓮𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓾𝓷𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓮 𝓰𝓾𝓲𝓭𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓹𝓪𝓽𝓱,𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝔂𝓸𝓾’𝓻𝓮 𝓫𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓯𝓲𝓷𝓭 𝓰𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼”

An amazing first book in a YA fantasy series that introduces us to the characters, the world, and the magic system! We follow along our main character Jai on his journey to learn how to use his powers. With the golden eyes of the chosen one he has to prepare to help in anyway he can. I really enjoyed this book and has made me excited to continue on with this series. The found family aspect is amazing and there’s dragons! What more could you ask for? If you’re a fan of Avatar: The last airbender you may be interested in this series!
Profile Image for Sunshine Library.
32 reviews
April 27, 2025
Dai’ja S. Rose builds a vibrant, action-packed universe that makes it easy for readers to get swept into the story. From start to finish, there’s hardly a dull moment. The fast pacing keeps things exciting, though at times it felt a little too quick, making it harder to fully connect with some of the deeper world-building elements.

The story follows Jai, a teenage boy gifted with a special power from the universe. With the help of some memorable friends, he must learn to control his abilities for the greater good. Jai’s journey is fun to follow, and the cast of characters around him adds color and heart to the adventure.

For a debut novel, this series has a lot of promise. The writing shows real talent, and the energy behind the story is infectious. I do think this book will especially appeal to younger readers who love fast-paced fantasy adventures.

While Golden Eyed Legend didn’t hit all the marks for me personally, mainly because I prefer a little more depth and slower build-up, it’s still a strong start to a series with a lot of potential. I’m curious to see how things develop in the next book!

Profile Image for Emma.
237 reviews7 followers
May 29, 2024
Thank you Dai'Ja for sending me a copy of your book in exchange for an honest review.

This books gives off major ATLA vibes and I love that! IT is fast paced and a fun YA read. For me I thought it was a bit too YA but still a very interesting story and magic system.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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