A Ballad of Stars

Thieves of Felshan #2

by Jacqlin Guernsey

Only the stars see all...

With the throne still hanging in the balance and its rightful heir nowhere to be found, the kingdom of Felshan remains vulnerable to the whims of a traitorous mind. Determined to avert disaster, Ari and Roan are set on restoring Princess Lena to the role that is her birthright — with the help of a most unlikely ally.

Tumbling from the hands of one captor to another, Lena reluctantly accepts a new offer of betrothal from the powerful Kael Davenport. When Lena uncovers a hidden diary, dangerous questions arise. Armed with tales of corruption and conspiracy, Lena resolves to exact justice, saving herself and Felshan in the process.

Meanwhile, Ari’s chance for revenge appears within arm’s reach — but she must make an impossible choice. Will she save the man she loves? Or will she fall into the plans of a treacherous king?

And all the while another piece of a malicious master plan is falling into place...

A Ballad of Stars is Book #2 in the Thieves of Felshan trilogy and is a non-magic, closed-door romantasy.

Genres: Fantasy

431 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2024

About the author

Jacqlin Guernsey has loved reading since she was a child, and dreamed of writing her first novel after reading The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis. She currently lives in Washington state with her four young boys and her wonderful husband. Jacqlin loves to take long walks and hikes, watch movies with her family, and dream up possibilities for her next story. Her biggest bucket list items are to see the Northern Lights, and visit the Mediterranean Sea.

Reviews

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I choose you. I will always choose you"


Um.... ok Jacqlin Guernsey, you've got me, I didn't think it was possible to captivate me any more than the first book did, but I was proven wrong with A Ballad of Stars.
I was swept away by this epic romantic adventure that leaves you begging for more. 


Roan and Ari are back, and there is no shortage of swoony chemistry between them. I love the way they both desire to protect each other and aren't afraid to do whatever it takes to do so. My heart breaks for Ari. She goes through a roller coaster of events, and Roan tries to mend her heart, especially because he knows he's to blame for some of her tears. They honestly compliment each other so well, and I can't help but wish for a happy ending for them. 


Lena is being held against her will and being forced to marry someone she'd rather have nothing to do with. She really shows her determination and strength in this book. Parker makes his appearance and is willing to do anything and everything to make up for his past mistakes to the princess. 


The side characters, new and old, make this story even more amazing than it already is by adding an extra dose of humor, sweetness, and mystery.


The story moves along at a perfect pace, and you will find yourself unable to stop reading. The twists and turns will keep you at the edge of your seat, and when secrets are brought to light, you will be shockingly surprised. 


For a thrilling adventure full of romance, friendship, and revenge, read this! If you haven't read a Song of Thieves, I highly recommend reading that first and then jumping right into A Ballad of Stars. You will not regret it. 


The only thing I dislike is how I have to wait for the next one to come out 😅


I was given an ebook but my thoughts and opinions are my own

[Jodi | more.time.2read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Jacqlin Guernsey for the opportunity to read this ARC. As a new author you should be incredibly proud of the work you’ve done!

I read A Song of Thieves last summer, which is the first book in this trilogy. I did a quick re-read before starting so the story would be fresh in my mind.

A Ballad of Stars is book 2. I enjoyed continuing this adventure with characters that I’ve grown to love and adore! More characters were introduced in the story and many more secrets were revealed! It was a fun story and I’m excited for book 3!

What you’ll find in this series:
Tri POV
Enemies to lovers
Slow burn
A non-magic fantasy book
Royalty & Palaces
Secrets
A princess
The Captain of the Guard
A skilled thief
A great YA Fantasy
Lots of action/fighting
Found family

Romance content: Just kisses - no language

Ballad of Stars releases April 9, 2025

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC, but the mood reader in me made it so hard for me to stick to the timeline and finish this sooner! I got a little lost in the length of it at times, but found myself missing the characters and the world and wanting to know what was going to happen next! Thank you, Jacqlin for letting me receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review! It has been so fun to watch your journey as an author, and I’m so proud of what you have accomplished here!!

A Ballad of Stars follows Roan and Ari as they travel across Thenstra trying to find and rescue the kidnapped princess! This is a clean fantasy read with no magic. Tropes include forbidden romance, slow burn, enemies to lovers, and a little found family!

I absolutely loved the first book, A Song of Thieves. This second installment has left me with some mixed feelings, but overall I’m really enjoying the journey!

The writing style has shifted so much in this book, and you can tell how much the author has grown in her writing. There is so much world-building in this book and so many characters introduced. It really feels like a step toward an epic fantasy! I will say, this is a very slow burn and it did feel a bit too long at times, which I think is something that comes with major world building that is working toward more novels after.

There were so many completely unexpected twists in the last 30% of this book. Literal jaw-drop moments that were so perfectly weaved into the story that I never even saw them coming. I can’t wait to continue on the journey with Roan, Ari, and Lena in the next book! 🩷🏹

Also, I would recommend reading the books close together, or rereading to refresh your memory! It was a little difficult at times for me to remember who a lot of the characters were and what role they played in the first book.

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

BUMMED.

BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK

I had much higher hopes going into this book and it ultimately fell prey to second/middle book of the series syndrome.

I love a good fantasy romance, but I like it to be balanced with the plot. This book was so much romantically focused that the story line took FOR-EVER to get anything going. All of the built up tension sagged because the lead-up was dragged out. I kept waiting for things to happen for anyone, anywhere and none of that occurred until maybe the last 15%.

I do like these characters and the over arching story is good. The way this one made me frustrated has me contemplating continuing the series though.

Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: make-outs
- Violence: high

[Jacqlin Guernsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book X a million.

[Eliana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why do I keep thinking of this book?😭
I just want the next book to come out already. Too many plot twists in this one that need to be answered

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I choose you. I will always choose you”

A Ballad of Stars is book #2 in the Thieves of Felshan series and is a closed-door fantasy romance. The epic adventure continues on with the throne still hanging in the balance and its rightful heir nowhere to be found, the kingdom of Felshan remains rather vulnerable to the whims of a traitorous mind. Greatly determined to avoid disaster, Ari and Roan are set on restoring dear Princess Lena to the role that is her birthright, with the help of a most unlikely ally. Tumbling from the hands of one captor to another, Lena reluctantly accepts a new offer of betrothal from the powerful Kael Davenport. When Lena uncovers a hidden diary, dangerous questions arise. Armed with tales of corruption and conspiracy, Lena bravely resolves to exact justice, saving herself and Felshan in the process. Meanwhile, Ari’s clear chance for revenge appears within arm’s reach - but she must make an impossible and great choice. She will either need to save the man she loves, or fall into the plans of the treacherous king, while another piece of a malicious master plan is falling into place...

Dear @authorjacqlinguernsey, A Ballad of Stars, is a beautiful heart wrenching thrilling story in this dear series, that is precisely and beautifully weaved with such swoony romance, deep friendship, and great revenge. It’s the endearing characters, the intriguing mystery, the great suspense, the absolutely intense plot reveals, and the delightful banter that spice up this story bringing it fully alive! Also, don’t be surprised with another cliff hanger at the ending of this dear story! Hold on, and get excited for more to come in this amazing series! It will be worth it! This dear book is worth the read!!

“I’ve never felt more alive than when I’m with you.”

•Content: war/violence (some violence/wounds described, but nothing in gruesome detail), suspense/ action, mild innuendo, mild amount of language (bible swears, a couple crude name references), mention of a marital affair, romance-kisses only.

#aballadofstars
#jacqlinguernsey

[Laura Fincher · Rating 5 out of 5]

" I understand your heart yearned for a freedom you thought I could not grant, a chance to be released from the bars that have held you captive. But I promise, here and forever, I will not rest until I find you again."

I didn't think falling even more in love with the characters in this series was possible, but after reading A Ballad of Stars, Ari, Roan, Lena, and even Parker have a special place in my heart. It was a stellar sequel, filled with twists and turns! My heart ached and rejoiced with each page. The angst was so good!

Read if you Enjoy:
-Multiple POVs
-Star Crossed Lovers
-Enemies to Lovers
-Found Family
-Royal Scheming
-High Stakes Fantasy

5/5 stars

!CW: violence

* I received a complimentary ARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jennifer Whalen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, spectacular, mind-blowing, couldn’t put it down, absolutely need the next book now!!

Just trust me on this series, start with book one, read straight through book 2, prepare for book hangover!

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my shooting stars! I had high, and I mean HIGH expectations for this book after the utter fabulousness of book one and let me tell you, those expectations were blown.out.of.the.water! THIS BOOK!!!

Now the captive of a corrupt man who seeks the throne, Lena feigns compliance while plotting to expose the evil pasts of those who are trying to control her future.

Ari and Roan are determined to find the missing princess and restore her to the throne before the kingdom is thrown into upheaval with the help of old friends and unlikely allies.

But when secrets are revealed, Ari is unsure what to believe and who to trust when she is faced with an impossible choice - revenge on those who stole everything from her, or a future with the man she loves.

What to love:
Fantasy
Dual POV
Enemies to Lovers
Captain of the Guard and a thief
Second book in the trilogy
Ari and Roan
Fantastic side characters
The TWISTS AND REVEALS
The growing
The kissing scenes
The wit and humor
The cliffhanger!

Where do I even begin? There is SO MUCH I want to say but won't because, spoilers, but OH MY HECK!!! I was sucked right back into the story from the first page and this book did not let me go until the end (okay, let's me honest. I am still in book hangover from it!)

Loved the mystery, the suspense, the absolutely crazy reveals, the friendships and banter and oh my word, ARI AND ROAN!! Someone bring me my smelling salts because these two make me faint from happiness. Be still my beating heart!

I cannot recommend this book and series enough. If you like swoony fantasy without magic but with lots of daring escapes, swordfighting and adventures, heartwarming friendships, and a sweet enemies to lovers romance that is swoony as all get out, then this series is for you! 10/10, will keep recommending until everyone I know has read it!

This is the second book in the series and the books need to be read in order! Start with A Song of Thieves and then be glad you don't have to wait to pick this one up!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

[Tasha (the_clean_read_book_club) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Bravery comes in all shapes and sizes...Standing up for what's right, no matter the cost, is more than most of us are capable of."

Where do I even start with A Ballad of Stars by Jacqlin Guernsey!!!

I absolute LOVED this book and could not put it down. The suspense and multiple storylines, plots, suspense, romance, etc., etc., etc. were fantastic!

I have really come to love this band of characters and am already holding my breath for book 3. This series is one you need to read in order-and trust me you'll want to anyway...each book has built off each other and has just gotten better and better and better!

There is a lot happening in this series so make sure you're reading at a time when you can focus because I promise you, you will not want to miss even the smallest of details. I laughed, I cried and I cheered for good throughout the entirety!

If you like action, suspense, multiple points of view, amazing characters, romance and don't mind a little violence or language (nothing explicit) I think you'd absolute LOVE this series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Content: war/violence (some violence/wounds are described, but nothing in gruesome detail), suspense/action, mild innuendo, mild amount of language (bible swears, a couple crude name references), mention of a marital affair, romance-kisses only.

[Ally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my stars I love this book. (Yes, pun intended!) this was such an amazing follow up from “A Song of Thieves” and I have been eagerly waiting to read this one. It is a part of a trilogy so it’s best to read book one first annnd you won’t have full resolution at the end because, yup you guessed it book 2 of a trilogy. Obviously, I am eagerly anticipating the release of book 3.

Here’s the deal though, you get an amazing book that continues with the journey of all the people you have learned to love. We get more about Ari and Roan (swoon). We learn a heck of a lot more about Lena... I so enjoyed her character growth. (And yes we learn more about Parker too).

There is action, adventure, fighting, deception, love, some resolutions, some answers, and more questions. This book takes you on a fun and wild adventure and I am here for it!

I feel like this quote alone would make me want to read this book:

“You are the stars, and I am the night sky. You light the darkest corners of my soul and give me life. Your light sings to me, showing me the way, guiding me home… back to you. Always back to you.”

See, it’s amazing. Trust me.

Thank you to the author for writing this story. I have enjoyed every minute of it. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

CW: some language.

[Shara Bowles · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do I even describe the epic awesomeness that is this book?? It is SO GOOD!!

The mystery that is unraveling in this story has so many fascinating layers and I enjoyed every second of it! It is exciting and action packed and full of all the mind blowing plot twists and clean romance stories you could possibly want!

I loved getting to know all our main characters even better in this book. Ari is as awesome as ever, Roan is incredibly devoted, and together they are perfection. We get to see Lena's strength and Parker's charm and determination to make things right. There are some great new characters we get to meet and love, and characters we already know become a greater part of the story. We get to see friendships blossom and characters learn and grow...

Like I said, epic. Awesome. I absolutely loved it and can hardly wait for the final book in this series!! If you loved the first book, you will be obsessed with this one! If you haven't read the first book, go read it now so you can read this one!

Content: A few biblical swears, clean/no-spice romance, mildly described violence in which someone dies.

[Michelle Rubin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited when I realized this book was coming out! After reading the first book I couldn't wait to see what would happen next! I absolutely LOVE this story and it's still not over! Ari and Roan go through ups and downs as they figure out their relationship. Lena has her own adventures. There were some plot twists that I didn't even see coming (and I'm usually good at spotting them early). I love the band of friends that's coming together in this one. It definitely gives more Robin Hood vibes. I can't wait for the next book to see how it all plays out.

One of my favorite parts is that the love story is believable. It's not overly lovey-dovey, but it's also not full of petty angst and drama. It feels real and I love it. :)

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

“If you want to kill me, this would be an odd time to do it.”

“Oh, there are plenty of things I want to do to you, thief. And killing isn’t one of them.” His face is full of mischief, and I can’t help but smile. 

Oh, this book! A Ballad of Stars picked up right where we left off in A Song of Thieves and continued to wow me with nonstop action, danger, and romance.

And the plot twists…we’re talking STUNNED! I was dumbfounded. I had an inkling as to one surprise, but when she dropped the bombshell(s). BOOM! My mind was blown! I’m like a K9 drug dog, usually I can sniff out those sneaky little (in this case HUGE) twists. But no, not this time! And I love it when I’m caught unawares! (Is this too many exclamation points? I think not.)

If you love nonmagical fantasy, with royalty, enemies to lovers x2, danger, fighting, life changing secrets, tension, banter, political plotting and scheming, revenge and redemption then look no further.

Many thanks to the author for my advanced copy, all opinions are my own. If you haven’t figured it out yet, I am in love with this series!

[Shellie Thornley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A ballad of stars, the second installation in this series, grabbed my attention from the start. This is a book you won’t be able to put down. It’s an epic tale with romance, adventure and mystery. Some definite surprises and now I can’t wait for the next book! This is the kind of book you can escape into and you won’t want to stop reading! Highly recommend!!!!

[Sohini Roy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5. It was a fun read, though I'll be honest there were certain characters I didn't really care for. Ari and Roan are an interesting pair ,with a sufficient amount of depth that makes you wanna root for them. The rest, I'm not very attached to

[Jacob Homer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I re-read the first book A Song of Thieves, and just finished the second. Incredible story, easy to follow. The dynamic between Ari and Roan is great.

[Marae Good · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come--Congratulations to Jacqlin on a stellar sequel. Amazing

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

No release date for book 3??? GAH!!

[Modern Miss Granger · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars- a gem!

[Jessica N · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed it! The twist at the end was very original. Kept me guessing. Character development great. Looking forward to the third!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good read!

[Sara Shupe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hope I don’t have to wait too long for #3!

[quietpages · Rating 5 out of 5]

NEEEDD the third book asap