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The Sable Riders #1

Stars on Fire

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'The thing is, Selene, I don't do forever. It's not what this is.’ - Kainan Sable

He’s lethal, wraithlike, a warrior who lives in the shadows, the hidden inferno amongst the stars.

She’s driven, ambitious, unrelenting, with an allure that forces him from the shadows.

He needs to control the intensity of his reaction to her.

She fights the temptation glinting in his sapphire wildfire eyes.

He wants revenge.

She wants forever.

But he can’t giver her forever.

Or can he?

Together they'll light the stars on fire, even as a darkness beyond their control seeks to turn their destiny - and their forever - to ashes.

__________________________

If you’re ready for:

A strong, smart heroine AND sexy badass anti-hero
Unrequited love and personal growth sagas that span a universe
Steamy hot epic jolts!
Paranormal action
All the feels AND heartfelt escapism
Then take to the Skies Above Eden. A whole new starlit world awaits you.
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About the author

Sky Gold

37 books52 followers

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5 stars
139 (40%)
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102 (29%)
3 stars
70 (20%)
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20 (5%)
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10 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Kristiej.
1,529 reviews100 followers
August 17, 2025
I adore a well written Sci-fi romance and this is a very well written one imo. It has everything I want, lots of adventure, a book I almost can't put down, great world building and an epic romance. This makes me think of a Star Wars, Lord of the Rings melding with a great romance as the key.

It takes place in a galaxy far, far away, many years in the future. Earth has long been decimated and the rulers, knowing what was going to happen, found another galaxy and many new worlds a were created and planets inhabited. One such planet is Dunia. At the start of the book, there has been an overthrow of the government and the leader assassinated. The new leader, his daughter, Selene needs help reestablishing order and apprehending the leader of the revolt. She turns to a mysterious group of men living on a planet known as Eden II. Not that much is known about them except they are a small group of special forces military men who have left that life behind and settled on Eden II, becoming very rich and very successful. At the same time they have improved living conditions and helped many people living in poor conditions.

Their leader a man known as Kainan is handsome and compelling. He and his men agree to help Selene save her world. There is an extremely potent attraction between Kainan and Selene but for some reason he doesn't want to act on this attraction. The level of desire between them is strong and there is a very real sense of will they or won't they. This and excellent crafting and storytelling kept me up WAY past my bedtime for a couple of nights before I finished.

This is the first book in a series about this mysterious group known as the Sable Riders. Unknowingly but oh so glad I have been, I've been picking up the books in this fascinating series by Sky Gold. I already had the first three books and purchased the 4th book partway through this one.

In case you are wondering or I haven't been clear enough, this is definitely a five star read and I'm moving right onto the next book, Stars At Dusk.
Profile Image for Kristin.
113 reviews8 followers
March 11, 2023
Loved the lyrical introduction that had a Spotify link. 

Chapters switch off between the pov of characters and I loved the Inner monologues/ thinking. I really enjoyed the friendship between Selene and Rina and the dynamic when Kainan and his “brothers” enter. Lots of humor and figuring out feelings among multiple characters. Kainan is such a charmer. This story had a great mix of romance, sci-fi, fantasy, and mystery that worked so well together. Gold built such an amazing world and the chemistry and interactions between all of the characters are so well done. There isn’t a ton of information like in a space opera or high fantasy that includes a glossary or maps. Instead, we are dropped into the world into a night of fire, coup, building war, intrigue, and discovery. From then on, you will get hooked. The romance scenes are spicy and loved that they weren’t overdone throughout the story. Really excited about the other books for each Sable Rider!
Profile Image for Anastasha.
151 reviews6 followers
dnf
May 20, 2023
DNF at 62%. I really tried, but this just wasn't the book for me.

I'm going to just be honest as I jump into this and say that the ARC description made this sound more like a traditional fantasy, not like sci-fi (which isn't my genre). Had I realized, I probably wouldn't have requested this in the first place. Thanks anyway, though, Net Galley.

Since this isn't my genre, I'm not sure how accurate my assessment of the world is, but it felt like there was a TON of depth to the politics and even just to the details of the settings and background. It's clear that the author really put a lot of plot into what they built.

That said, the delivery of that was difficult for me. Again, it might be because this isn't my genre, but it was very very hard for me to follow all of the worldbuilding as it was presented. A lot of it was told instead of shown, and even though it's quite details, it felt very info-dumpy. There were points that I skipped/skimmed multiple pages because it was just TOO much, and I still understood what was happening, so it tells me a lot of that wasn't moving the story forward, at least not to the point that I made it. Which is unfortunate because the moments where I got to see the characters interact with their settings and the underlying political systems were great!

That said, I really love the banter and relationships in this book. I like Kainan's swagger and I love that Selene seems like a compassionate leader. I also liked that there was realistic space given for Selene's grief throughout the book; it all felt very authentic.

But because this book wasn't what I wanted it to be, and because I felt like I couldn't give a full review anyway because I skipped over so much, I just decided I'm going to put it in DNF and carry on.
Profile Image for Ridim Buk.
416 reviews5 followers
April 18, 2023
Selene has just had her world turned upside down and finds herself on the run, trying to protect her planet, Dunia, and also find others that can help her to defeat a hostile take over.
Kaimana has spent year building up advanced technology, ships and weapons as he and his ‘brothers’ rule over his planet, Eden II.

There is a lot going on in this story and it certainly didn’t go where I was expecting it to along the way. There is a lot of world building, especially in the first handful of chapters as we set up the worlds and the characters. There are multiple planets, people and organisations to get your head around as we try to get into the flow of the story. The descriptions are very vivid and if you’re the kind of person who loves the world building aspect of sci-fi/fantasy books then you’ll enjoy this one.

I wish I saw Selene get more actively involved in some of the action parts of the stories. She kept telling us how she was army trained but we never really saw it. She mostly just attended meetings all day and while that is probably an accurate assessment of what leaders do in real life, it’s not as interesting to read about.

This is part of a series and it looks like we get Kate and his story next.

Multiple POV, med spice, 18+
Profile Image for Aparna Preethi.
Author 1 book56 followers
March 10, 2023
"Stars on Fire" by Sky Gold is a thrilling science fiction/fantasy novel that follows the journey of a group of space adventurers known as the Sable Riders. Led by their captain, Asher, the Riders navigate their way through the galaxy, facing danger and intrigue at every turn. The plot is well-paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. From space battles to political machinations, "Stars on Fire" delivers on multiple fronts. The book also sets up intriguing threads for future installments in the series, making it a promising start to what could be an epic saga. It is a highly enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of science fiction and fantasy alike. With its engaging characters, richly imagined world, and exciting storyline, it is sure to leave readers eager for more. The characters are complex and engaging, with distinct personalities that make them feel like real people. The author does a great job of balancing action-packed scenes with quieter moments of introspection, which helps to deepen the emotional resonance of the story.
Profile Image for Mc Chanster.
535 reviews
July 14, 2023
Well, hell yeah! This was a thoroughly enjoyable read!

I honestly loved Selene. Strong, independent and intelligent, I thought she was really well written, and Kainan was a great match for her. Their banter felt flirty and natural, and the steamy scenes were definitely steamy. I also very much appreciated how the author took the time to craft the backstories for the Riders, and for the different planets – this really gave the novel so many more layers and depth, and it just pulled me into the plot that much deeper.

Stars on Fire is a combination of science fiction, fantasy, romance and adventure, and Gold has done a fantastic job balancing out moments of action with shots of drama and backstory. The dual perspectives give great insight into both of the main characters and I cannot wait for the following stories of Kainan’s ‘brothers’.

Thank you Voracious Readers and Sky Gold for my copy! I received an ARC of this novel and am voluntarily leaving a review. All above thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Loki.
451 reviews8 followers
April 5, 2023
Selene is beautiful, fierce and feminine, but she was not ready to take the role of Prime that she inherits when her father is murdered during a civil coup. Who can she and the Durian alliance turn to when the military are behind the coup?

Kainan is one of the Sable riders who have brought peace and prosperity to the rock known as Eden II. Kainan is all smooth and the epitome of a hero. However, he has a shadowy history and a secret that no one else apart from the Sable riders know about.

Will Selene succeed in her quest to overturn the coup for the good of the people of Durian? Why can't Kainan promise forever? And what is his big secret??

I was so surprised by this book! The original cover left me a little unsure about what I was going to get with this book. However, the world building and character development was amazing! I loved this so much!! I have already bought the second book and I am begging for a ARC of the third book. I am in for the long haul with this series. I suggest you get on board too!
Profile Image for Mariana.
652 reviews13 followers
March 9, 2023
Stars on fire is a book that you should read if you are interested in science fiction and romance stories. This book will take you to an incredible world, full of technology, danger and magic, which will always keep you attentive and eager to continue this adventure.

It's really amazing to see how well developed the characters are, the chemistry between them and the fantastic adventures they go on throughout the story. Seeing how a tough and determined heroine and a seductive anti-hero have an electric tension is super attractive and you will not want to stop reading until you know how the story is linked.

I highly recommend this book, it's too entertaining and well written, it will never scratch you bored and you will manage to escape your reality with a really fun and dangerous world.
Profile Image for Mary Maciejewski.
127 reviews7 followers
March 10, 2023
Stars On Fire, by Sky Gold, is an exciting fantasy and romance story of unrequited love. Kainan is a focused warrior living hidden within the stars. Selene is enterprising and unyielding. Her attractiveness forces Kainan from his gloom. Kainan knows he must control his reaction to Selene, but can he?

Kainan’s desire for revenge must come first. Yet, Selene wants forever with Kainan. Will she have it?

As a war bustles above Eden II, between two empires, one is in a higher rank, the other in descent. And Kainan and Selene find themselves caught up in the middle of the vortex. Will their passion light the stars on fire, or will the corruption and trouble beyond their control destroy them?

Gold is a talented writer who brings characters and story plot to life. I recommend Stars On Fire, by Sky Gold, not only to fantasy readers but also to romance readers.

Profile Image for Marina  Lujan .
920 reviews15 followers
March 11, 2023
In the science fiction book Stars on Fire, we are thrust into a dangerous and exciting future universe. The heroine of the novel is introduced to a sexy and rude antihero during the course of the plot. They are drawn to each other despite their differences, but their unrequited love sends them into a series of conflicts and challenges.

The characters in the book were carefully
created, and they have depth and emotional complexity. The romance between the protagonists is made to feel real and convincing by the author, keeping the reader interested all the way through.

In short, it is a thrilling and compelling book that successfully combines science fiction and romance. You must read this book if you enjoy reading about brave heroes, intriguing anti-heroes, and forbidden love stories.


Profile Image for Dani Savante.
804 reviews24 followers
March 11, 2023
Stars on Fire is the first book in the series The Sable Riders created by author Sky Gold. I really liked this story. If I had to highlight what I enjoyed the most about it, I would say it is the fact that it is a book that gets the readers interested from the very beginning and wanting to know more about the destinies and fates of the characters. The writer sets great expectation from the first lines and it rises until it is solved in surprising ways. The book presents a gripping narrative where science fiction, action and suspense are mixed to craft an electrifying tale.

This is a fascinating and original novel. I especially liked the characters’ development and the great job the author has done when creating a complex world where good and evil inevitably intermingled. I highly recommend it and I hope I can read more from this series.
Profile Image for Pebbles.
220 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2023
Brilliantly written!

You may wonder why I didn't rate this book five stars given the title of my review, while this book is written intelligently and with strong female characters I love a book that caters to my relentless need for details as I absorbed every word I read but that doesn't work in my favour with this author because for me her books are too descriptive to retain all that. I still loved this book as it was not overly descriptive and painful to read useless details that weren't relative to the story, Gold's words ARE relevant to the story and it moves along well, it's me who has this issue and I found my need to know what's going to happen had me skimming pages at 83%. I sincerely hope that Gold has a very successful career in writing and I wish her all the best but I probably won't continue on with this series.
Profile Image for Saya Jacaranda.
755 reviews11 followers
March 10, 2023
mesmerizing story full of love, hate, passion, revenge and mystery.

“Stars on Fire” by Sky Gold is a mesmerizing story full of love, hate, passion, revenge and mystery. While a violent war strikes between two empires, two people: Selene and Kainan have to find a way to solve their issues. While he is full of negative emotions and impulses, she’s looking for nothing else than a forever together. She’s strong, ambitious and unrelenting. Her being creates an immensely strong reaction in Kainan. He has to fight with himself not to give into those revealing and intense temptations and emotions. I can really recommend this book full of intensity and action. I for sure ended up reading the book in a day or two.
Profile Image for CarlitasFox.
1,462 reviews28 followers
March 11, 2023
An epic and entertaining novel
"Stars on fire" is the first part in a series called "The Sable Riders" by Sky Gold.
Karina and Selene are close and interconnected friends. They both look for something special. The moment they find themselves in a crossroad, they realize how strong they are to face their destinies.
This is definitely an action-packed, fantasy story that will engage readers from the very beginning. It's very entertaining with a variety of turns and twists. What I like the most about this novel is that the author includes brave female heroines. I liked the way the places are portrayed because I felt immersed in that imaginary world. In a nutshell, this is a great beginning and for sure the next ones are even better. I recommend it!
Profile Image for Yolanda Gomez.
568 reviews9 followers
March 18, 2023
You have to read it, it's a really short book because of how interesting it is, you won't be able to stop reading because the plot is so good and moving that you won't stop. This book is action and fantasy, where you can find a world full of technology and magic.

The book tells the stories of a strong and determined hernia, who lives many incredible adventures together with an anti-hero. Seeing the tension between these two characters and how the author took care of developing them in an incredible way is charming. I highly recommend this book, rarely is it possible to connect so much with the characters and become so aware of what will happen, the world in which the entire plot unfolds is truly captivating, I loved it!
Profile Image for Daniel Moreno.
828 reviews16 followers
March 20, 2023
amazing novella

"Stars on Fire" by Sky Gold is a must-read for fans of science fiction and romance. The novella offers an exhilarating blend of adventure and romance set in the war-torn realm of Eden II. Selene and Kainan's intense romantic connection is central to the story, and the novella alternates between their perspectives, giving readers insight into their personalities and chemistry. The world-building is rich and complex, with a fascinating universe filled with magic, advanced technology, and danger. The captivating action scenes and steamy moments keep readers on the edge of their seats throughout the book. Overall, "Stars on Fire" is an engaging and thrilling read that transports readers to a new and exciting world.
Profile Image for Juan.
425 reviews5 followers
March 24, 2023
What a great read this was! Everything is masterfully interwoven: love, passion, the universe itself and lot of intrigue.
Sky Gold has produced a brilliant story which transports the reader away to the glorious interstellar world. I can physically feel this place with all the mesmerizing descriptions; they are so vivid and real that it’s easy to feel trapped. Apart from the stars and romance in this book, it’s perfectly balanced with a pleasant dose of suspense and mystery; I was gripped!
The plot was delightful to read with a few shocks along the way, but it’s also emotional and heart-warming.
I couldn’t put this amazing book down; fortunately, I’m already waiting for the next installment.
Profile Image for Deanaera writes....
143 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2023
This was a good sci-fi romance and I will definitely look out for the other books in the series. Great plot, great world building and interesting characters that make you want to know what happens next. That being said my rating of a 3.5 is purely subjective because the dynamic between the main characters just didn't appeal to me - I personally I like alpha heroes and the portrayal of the softer side of the male MC just wasn't my cup of tea -Im not advocating for an alphahole but a bit more showing of the strong and strategic tactician would have been a welcome balance to the character. I found the female MC a bit too submissive and passive in her role in the relationship and the entire situation - I just didn't get that strong powerful kickass vibe from her... - She has skills that are not just diplomatic and we just never really get to see her front and center in that regard.
It was still a good read overall. I just couldn't honestly give it a 4. Hoping book 2's character dynamic is more in my wheelhouse.
382 reviews4 followers
May 28, 2023
Eye crossing

Phew this was eye crossing. Another writer going for a epic novel that left me scratching my head and looking desperately for those " marks. All new terms,planets,government language and lets not forget the description that was an attempt at world building but instead lost me and was unnecessary to the plot . But I should have figured it out with the beginning of the book describing everyone and everything trying to lead us to the scene of the first kill .
Some enjoy this type of reading but for me it kills the story because I find myself reading it again and looking for paper and pencil to jot down stuff . That I promptly forget two paragraphs later. .
Sorry this not for me .
Profile Image for Haisam Syyed.
194 reviews3 followers
March 7, 2023
Stars on fire is a thrilling sci-fi romance that will leave readers breathless. The chemistry between Selene and Kainan is electric, and the tension between their desires for revenge and forever is palpable.
The world-building is exceptional, transporting readers to a universe filled with war, action, and paranormal elements. This novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a strong heroine and a sexy, badass
anti-hero. The personal growth sagas and unrequited love add depth and complexity to the characters, making them all the more relatable. If you want to escape reality and dive into a world of steamy romance and epic adventure, then Stars on Fire is the book for you.
Profile Image for Huda.
362 reviews14 followers
March 9, 2023
"Stars on Fire" is an exhilarating blend of sci-fi and romance that takes readers on a thrilling ride through the stars. With a fierce, determined heroine and a seductive anti-hero, this book is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The tension between Kainan and Selene is electric, and their journey together is filled with heart-pumping action and steamy moments. But what really sets this book apart is its world-building - the author has created a rich and complex universe filled with magic, technology, and danger. If you're looking for a book that will transport you to a whole new world and leave you breathless, then "Stars on Fire" is a must-read.
Profile Image for Margarita Garcia.
1,019 reviews21 followers
March 9, 2023
Stars on Fire, from the series ''The Sable Riders'' is a mix of science fiction and romance novel that will have you hooked immediately. The author, Sky Gold, surprises us with this love story between Selene and Kainan. She is a bright, strong, and beautiful heroine that sometimes is uncontrollable. And he is a sexy anti-hero who wants to control her. From there, you can find an adventure between them where the action and love make this science fiction novel a show. This book is the kind of book that you want to read to get out of a rut. It is a fun, ambitious novel with a good plot twist. I recommend it.
Profile Image for Mayra.
613 reviews12 followers
March 10, 2023
Stars on Fire by Sky Gold is an exciting sci-fi romance that kept me at the edge of my seat for hours. I enjoyed the plot as well as the development of the characters. The chemistry between Selene and Kainan is dramatic and the tension between their desires for revenge and to be forever together are the key elements of the story. Each scene has a special something that kept me reading page after page. There are many aspects that make this novel a great piece. The writing style of the author is wonderful. It transported me to a world filled with war, action and paranormal elements. I really liked the fact of having a strong heroine and a sexy, badass anti-hero.
Profile Image for Lucia Maranghello.
423 reviews9 followers
March 10, 2023
Stars On Fire by Sky Gold is a science fiction novella set in the galactic world of Eden II, of the upcoming romance between the hero and the anti-hero, Selene and Kainan. While the world is in chaos, Selene and Kainan are bound to be together in the middle of the maelstrom which is the war between realms.

Going back and forth between Selene and Kainan's perspectives, we see the uprising tense but intense chemistry between them, and the personality shock they have brings them even closer.

What I loved most about the book was the unravelling of the world, the war, and the politics surrounding the realms.

For any romance or sci-fi novel readers, I would recommend this book!
Profile Image for ZebraDebra .
386 reviews6 followers
March 10, 2023
“Stars on Fire” by Sky Gold is an action-packed science fiction novel that centres around the romance between an enchanting and captivating heroine and a less pleasant anti-hero. The writing style is snappy and interesting and will leave readers guessing as they eagerly flip the pages to find out what lurks around the next corner.

I enjoyed the fact that the book explores the personal development and growth of the main characters, making the story a lot more intriguing. I did not enjoy the war scenes that are very vividly described by the author, but if one enjoys a cutting-edge style story, then this should not pose a problem. All in all, an excellent book.
Profile Image for Aneley Sánchez.
988 reviews24 followers
March 10, 2023
A well written sci-fi.

I must say that I found something completely different from what I expected but it was still a good surprise. Stars on Fire by Sky Gold is the first book in the Sable Riders series. It is a sci-fi novel that develops around a thrilling romance that also includes a lot of interesting elements.
It is a must read for fans of sci-fi series. For me, it was ideal to disconnect my mind for a while and immerse myself in a great fantasy world. The plot is fluid and the characters are interesting. I liked it and I want to read the next book because I think the author has much more to show us.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,383 reviews31 followers
March 10, 2023
"Stars on Fire" is a science fiction novel written by Sky Gold. This romance is undoubtedly passionate, fiery and will take the reader on an unforgettable journey.
Kainan is a warrior who lives in the twilight, the hell hidden between the stars, and Selene is impulsive, ambitious and relentless, with a charm that forces him out of the shadows.

I loved this romance, with great world building and great characters. Right from the cover, the book seemed elegant and subtle, just as the story is. The author did a great job regarding the description of the scenes and the creation of the characters. I definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,262 reviews27 followers
March 10, 2023
Sky Gold took me on the most beautiful journey in this emotional love story. She certainly has mastery of the romance genre and knows how to pair her characters. Her rich background knowledge, passion for life, descriptions and imagery make you believe you are there, as you are immersed in the setting. At least, I particularly felt such a connection to the characters that it was possible for me to have their same feelings and empathy grew inside of me.
The beautiful backdrop, and the story told made this book impossible to put down. It’s one piece of work I will readily recommend to any lover of the romance genre.
Profile Image for Almiria.
738 reviews10 followers
March 11, 2023
“Stars on Fire” by Sky Gold is a saga of love and high adventure in space, above Eden II. There’s an intense and steamy romance between the protagonists Kainan and Selene, inter-galactic tensions and warfare, as well as plenty of intrigue and revenge. This is a space opera that spans a universe. Fans of inter-galactic sagas and romance with plenty of tension and action will most likely enjoy this saga. I felt the book was a bit long (and it’s only part 1!), however, fans of involved storylines and complex alternate universes will likely enjoy this. Also, I have to comment on the awesome cover art! This definitely helped sell the story to me :)
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