A Star of Darkness: A Scented Court Standalone

by A.L. Knorr

A warrior's honor meets a fae’s secrets.

In the scented court, where every bloom is power, Vesper—a member of the elite fae retinue that entertains the aristocracy with rare flora magic—hides her true identity while saving for her future. But when she receives a threatening message, Vesper realizes she can't run from her past forever. How far will she go to protect herself—and the one creature she holds dear?

Regalis, with his fierce raptor familiar, stands as a pillar of honor among the elite Fahyli soldiers. Yet beneath the warrior’s exterior lies a yearning heart. In a foggy twist of a murder, a kidnapping, and a dark generational mystery, fate throws them together.

Vesper must decide if she can trust Regalis with the truth she’s buried deep, while Regalis faces the ultimate test—can he forgive the web of lies spun in fear? As past sins collide with present dangers, one question who will make the ultimate sacrifice?

A Star of Darkness is an unpredictable, pulse-pounding romantasy adventure of intrigue, deception, and passion. One reader has coined it "Wuthering Heights meets LOTR". Dive into this twisty, gothic, standalone story where love battles the shadows of the past, and magic weaves a fate neither of these star-crossed lovers saw coming. Set in the epic world of The Scented Court but can be read as a standalone. Not YA, but suitable for readers aged 14+.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Ebooks

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2024

About the author

A.L. Knorr is a USA Today Bestselling Author and award-winning Canadian conjurer of clean fantasy for teens and the young at heart. Her stories blend elemental magic, epic adventure, fierce female leads, and just enough romance to make your heart flutter (without needing to hide the book from your grandma).

Whether you’re chasing fire demons through Venice, swimming with mermaids off the coast of Poland, or unraveling supernatural conspiracies in ancient ruins, her immersive worlds pull you in—and don’t let go.

No explicit content. No f-bombs. Just page-turning plots, vivid magic, and characters you'll wish were real.

And if you like your fantasy with a little more grit, danger, and fallen angels? Check out Shadows of the Fallen—where secrets are deadly, powers come at a price, and trust is the rarest magic of all.

Join her VIP Reader List for secret book news, and first dibs on every new release:
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Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01NBAUVKO

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Reviews

[Beatrice Moulin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Star of Darkness is an enchanting blend of fantasy, intrigue, and deep emotion. The worldbuilding is immersive, and the characters are compelling, each carrying layers of complexity that kept me engaged. The pacing was a bit slow at times, but the rich descriptions and tension-filled moments made up for it. The emotional depth of the story, especially towards the end, caught me off guard—I wasn’t expecting to get teary-eyed, but here we are. A beautifully written tale with a satisfying conclusion, even if it left me wanting just a little more. Definitely worth the read!

[Brittany Kilinsky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure what to rate this. I didn’t really connect with this like I thought I would. I would’ve liked more focus on the romance since it really took a backseat after a certain point and once they got back to each other it wasn’t enough to keep me interested. This has a ton of world building and plot but it was all quite stagnant for me. Maybe I’m just in a slump but I was bored for most of the book and I really wanted to love it.

[Mauireadsbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good book, I am blown away by it! It's the first book I read of Abby and it won't be the last, that's for sure.

Tropes:
✨️ Romantasy
✨️ Animal familiars
✨️ Political intrigue
✨️ Fae courts
✨️ Mystery and adventure

In A Star of Darkness, Abby managed to balance so much so well. She made room for fantasy elements (fae, animal familiars, ...) as well as a romantic storyline that didn't feel heavy and was more of a subplot, which I loved. There's also adventure, murder and political intrigue that keep you wanting to read.

The emotions I felt while reading this book were all over the place! From confusion to agony to heartbreak (WHY ABBY WHY), it was all there.

Her world-building is just perfect, and you can't help but really feel for the characters she created. Whether it's adoring Morpho or hating Cutright, every character is so interesting!

[Wandaka Lyngdoh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me crying and smiling towards the end. The plot was definitely unique and although the turns and twists were kind of predictable, I had a great time reading it.

[A Court of Stars and Sapphire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mini-𝔹𝕝𝕦𝕣𝕓 and ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨

I received a copy of this book from the author and am honored to share this completely honest review!

A Star of Darkness is a standalone Romantasy set in the intriguing Scented Court.

Vesper lives a cushy, yet quiet life as a flora fae, but there is far more to her than meets the eye. Until now, her past has remained a close-guarded secret.

Regalis is a honorable soldier whose fallen for Vesper, but how well does he really know her? Will their new found love survive when Vesper's secrets are revealed?

I loved reading this cozy murder mystery, romantasy. It was a nice break from some of the darker, high stakes romantasy books that I've read lately. My favorite aspects of the story were the sweet romance and animal familiars.

While cozy, this book does have some moments that take the intensity up a notch. The reveals in the 3rd part of the book will have you gasping! Some moments will also likely being a tear to your eye. Be prepared for those, but know that the end of this standalone is hopeful and satisfying. I'd love to explore The Scented Court more and plan to read the other books that A. L. Knorr has written in this realm!

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤
✨sweet romance
✨romantasy
✨cozy murder mystery
✨found family
✨animal familiars
✨orphan
✨fae courts
✨glittering balls
✨noblebright

[dr.eaming_away · Rating 4 out of 5]

More like 4.2 ⭐️

I thoroughly enjoyed this world, especially with the inclusion of a map! The creative concept of a scented court, the diverse powers of the fae, and their unique familiars were fascinating. The descriptive details of the elegant lifestyle of the floral fae, contrasted with the ordinary population, were remarkable.

Beyond the romance between the star-crossed lovers, the underlying plot was substantial and well-crafted, with the political drama and stakes being both terrifying and suspenseful.

The transition in the book that recounted past events was well-executed; I could feel the nostalgia from the FMC, as well as her profound and incomprehensible sorrow. The action scenes were wisely interwoven, adding depth to the story. I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from depicting the realistic brutality of human nature, so not entirely YA. 
The twist towards the end broke my heart, but it was, nonetheless, a fantastic conclusion.

[Wardibonlang Pakma · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5

Give me a fae book, and watch me forget reality.

A Star of Darkness follows Vesper, on the run from her mysterious past, now seeking solace in a vibrant fae town and living as a Calyx. Enter Regalis, sworn to protect the Calyx. Their meeting launched them into an unforgettable adventure.

The world-building in this book is intricate and utterly captivating. The vivid descriptions brought every magical detail to life, making it easy to lose myself in this enchanting realm. The fast-paced narrative and brilliant writing kept me hooked from start to finish.

While the plot was easy to follow, I found myself wishing for a bit more action and a stronger focus on the romance. That said, the emotional moments more than made up for it, some scenes had me in tears. The ending, in particular, wrapped things up on a wonderfully satisfying note.

If you’re a fan of fae stories, this book offers a rich, magical world to immerse yourself in. An amazing read through and through!

[brii | brii (three months behind...) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Star of Darkness: A Scented Court Standalone (The Scented Court Book 5), my thirty-ninth read from author A.L. Knorr. Extremely well written, the characters, well-developed. I’m a character reader, I get into the characters, who and what they are, why they do the things they do. The things that make the reader get invested into the characters and thereby the story. I don't recommend reading the 5-book series back-to-back as I did, you can overdose on the excellent story-line. I understand why authors space their releases the way they do. Marina Fess & Eden Gabay's tag-team narration adds to the enjoyment of this Audible book. I’ll be reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Mireille (readingwithmrleo) · Rating 3 out of 5]

\\\\\ 2.5 \\\\\

Honestly, not quite sure what went wrong for me with this one, but I really struggled to finish it.

At first, I was really intrigued by our character and that very interesting magic system. Discovering the world and learning more about familiars and all was super fun. Even though our main characters had cute interactions, I feel like I wanted this one to be more romance focused, maybe. And I couldn’t really connect with the characters that well, even though I did like them quite enough. The familiars were a super nice addition, love myself some cute animal sidekicks and the bond between each duo was super sweet.

While I do enjoy having a bit of a mystery to our character’s background, I do expect a shocking reveal or twist to come along the way. All through the story we were missing parts of Vesper’s story which kept things interesting, but in the end, nothing that we learned about her past blew me away, it was just what I’d guessed and no ulterior motive or hidden reasons… so it all felt like I’d been waiting for nothing.

I also have to mention the switch to whole chapters set-up in the past right upon the end of the book really put me out of the read. I get that it was showing what had happened to Vesper's family, but it felt like starting a new story because suddenly these were all new characters, a bunch of new names to learn, a new setting, etc, all to show that what I’d already guessed had happened.

Which brings me to another point: I struggled so much with character’s names… each character had multiple names, plus their familiar and even their horse’s names sometimes, it was way too much for me, to be honest. I remember a particular page where there were literally 11 names in one small paragraph. I don’t know in which world I’m supposed to follow the action while I’m just there trying to remember who is who.

I also must admit that the ending left me so unsatisfied. I wanted someone to pay, I wanted something big to happen, I wanted a more satisfying reason for all that had happened. It just didn't do it for me, but that's my personal opinion.

So yeah, while at first I was really into this one, I can’t say that my reading ended on a good note, sadly. I’m obviously the unpopular opinion here and I’m not sure if the fact that I was new to this universe and all played a part in my poor reading experience but well... chances are you will enjoy this one cause everyone seems to do so! Don't let my experience stop you!

Thanks so much to the author and MTMC Tours for sending me a copy. All opinions are my own.

[Noxwitchbooklife · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed all the other stories set in The Scented Court world and this was absolutely not an exception!

This is a standalone and though there are references to characters from other stories it is mostly just in passing, with a quick explanation as to why they were referenced so it makes sense. Of course you should read the other stories though as they're great!

On the surface the summer and spring faeries in this world seem to be sweet and superficial but some of them have a sterner centre than others.

We start out in The Scented Court where it doesn't take long for Vesper's mysterious past to catch up with her.

There is a good dose of fighting with the associated violence in the descriptions including from the faerie's familiars and some not behind the scenes romance as well as some rather traumatic scenes from Vesper's past.

One of the hallmarks of A.L. Knorr's writing is how it always gets me in the feels. It is really easy to empathise with her characters and A Star of Darkness really hit hard.

A really great fast paced book with a fully fleshed out world and a fantastic story and characters, I really enjoyed every page!

[Tiffany Dedeaux · Rating 1 out of 5]

What the heck was this? I don't think I really followed the storyline. I could make out broad strokes of what the arc was, but it did not hold my interest. I think I really just pushed my way through to try to complete the book and I know it said standalone in the title so that should have been my own clue to not just buy all the books because I loved the series so much but this just felt random. And then there were some aspects of it that echoed the others. But even the reading of it for the audiobook, it felt like the quality of the audio was hollow, and just it just felt like a distraction to me.The whole story from production to even the in message which was basically don't go alone, you must have friends and play nice with others. So even the ending message or whole point to, it felt not on par with anything else that wasn't as series

I will say, dad, part of the reason might be that I did. The whole series read other series, and then came back and did the standalone. So my palate was not in the same place.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Regalis

This book is book five, not sure why it's not listed that way, yes you can read without the others but you will not know the history and the beginning will be confusing (calyx, body sweat,the battle, jess)
So having read the past four books, this book is two years after the big battles and loss of the Gardner (new one called portia) the other books focus on three people jess,laec,cifta. Plus we meet others around them Regalis was there in the battle and friend and protector at times to them trains Jess as a Fahyli.
This book is about him and new person Vesper (I did think her name comes up in past books but not sure, she says she turned up after in this book) I soon got gripped on this and my heart cried for her a few times. I wanted a brother to show up alive, I thought Finador would of been a great Fahyli.
A great read but poor Elara everything was taken and even more (no spoilers)

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is set in the Scented Court world. Although it is a standalone, and you don’t have to have read the Scented Court books, but if you have read them you will already know many of the characters and their stories. In this book we follow Vesper and Regalis. You will fall in love with her sweet little familiar, Morpho. The story starts with Vesper’s fear and her hiding. She is aloof with everyone, but no-one understands why. In the book you eventually find where it comes from and her pain and anger, the revenge, her regret and true sacrifice. There are points which are tear-jerkers and yet in the end it is a story of justice, love and forgiveness. Another great story in the Scented Court world.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

🦋 Animal Familiars
🦋 Hidden Identity
🦋 Fae Courts
🦋 Found Family
🦋 Gothic Vibes
🦋 Murder Mystery

A.L Knorr does an amazing job with developing her characters and creating a lush and fragrant world. I love all the floral references and all the different familars. I loved Morpho!

There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and entertained. Vesper had a torrid past and definitely had reason for all her secrets. Regalis is exactly what she needed and I loved seeing their story unfold.

Thank you @alknorrbooks and @mtmctours for the gifted copy. My thoughts and review are my own.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobooks: This was my first experience with this author's work, and the story was very entertaining. I admired the worldbuilding. My attention was gripped by all the twists and turns. I thought the author created characters who were pleasing and versatile, and I liked how their personalities were slowly revealed by events in the story. I enjoyed the dual narrations by Marina Fess and Eden Gabay, and I thought their performances enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was intrigued to read this because it was Regalis’ story. As I listened, I grew to really feel for Vespa, she went through so much with what seemed like nowhere to turn for help. My heart broke as the story unfolded, but I loved how Regalis would not give up on Vespa. It was interesting to see Portia and how she took on a new role. This story has a bit of everything and will definitely keep you engaged. I highly recommend you read it.

The narration was very good. It kept me engaged and helped me connect with the characters. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the latest of the Fae books by Knorr I’m impressed by the world Knorr has built and the amazing characters she has written. A Star of Darkness has many twists and turns and many times I wanted to shout at the characters giving them advice. But alas they would not hear. Grin. I loved the talent of the latest familiar - a moth. I will not say more. The subtle love story woven through the tragedies of life was precious. Knorr continues to grow as an author with each book I’ve read. I look for more books!

[Sandra Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was glued til the end!

This is my favorite Scented Court story although all of them are amazing! The story of Elara Darkstar is gripping and emotional. The author tells the story in elaborate detail, making the reader feel like they are there every step of the way. I am sad that the Scented Court series is complete! I want more and more and more. A.L. Knorr is an amazing author and one of my very favorites! I highly recommend reading any of her series because each is my favorite at the time.

[Mai White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a standalone in the Scented Court world, the story starts with Vesper being quite withdrawn & rejecting any friends that try to come her way. But soon enough her mysterious past comes creeping up on her.
This is so well written that Vesper is our main character but even as the reader you start questioning her past & intentions. The mystery of her past had me hooked for the entirety of the story & I absolutely loved the animal familiars.
This story took a few twists & turns and is truly one of bravery. I'm not too proud to admit I cried a little, it really got me at the end there!

[Nikky Reads Romantasy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never knew I could get attached to a moth this much. All the love for Morpho!!

We get mystery, animal familiars and the sweetest romance in this glittering fae tale. A Star of Darkness is the first work of this author I’ve read and although it takes place in the Scented Court World with previous world building and excising stories, it felt like it truly stood on its own. It made me curious for the previous books, so I’ll be sure to check those out!

I received this ARC as part of the MTMC Tour. Thank you for the review opportunity!

[Kirsty Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging, and intriguing. I love that the main character got his story and a happy ever after. I'd love to see some of the other characters from the scented court get the same treatment. This universe still has much to offer. The crofter has much more to him than is realised, he still surprises me after all these books. The King and Queen are excellent too. But our hero and heroine in this book have a deserved, well written story. The pace is good, and the twists excellent. The POV narration worked really well too.

[Karen Oakley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It made a nice change to read a standalone. There was murder, kidnapping amongst a storyline of perfumery performed by Vesper. She hides a secret about her past until her secret is revealed and her life is in danger. Regalis is a soldier in the royal guard who is entranced by her and helps her when she is in most danger. My only complaint is that the romance side of this story was seriously lacking. I wasn't looking for smut exactly but the chemistry between them was hardly felt.

[Carolyn Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story takes place a few years after The Prince of Autumn. While this is a standalone it is much better to have read the Scented Court series beforehand. I would still have enjoyed it had I not already read the series. It took me a minute to make the switch to fantasy then the story just pulled me in. This book is well written and a great story with wonderful characters. There are a lot of emotions to go through but I really enjoyed it.

[Debi Mozingo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for a New Scented Court book! And boy, did it deliver! Vesper and Regalis go on a dark personal journey into Vesper's past in an attempt to save her future, and to have a future together. Vesper and her moth familiar, Morpho, are hiding amongst the Calyx. Vesper stands accused of murder, with a bounty on her head. Can the heroic fahyli, Regalis, save her from execution?

If you want answers, you must read this book. This story will grip your heart and never let go!

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

We venture back into the scented kingdom in this wonderful stand alone story. The author draws us in with an exciting and suspenseful storyline full of mystery, intrigue, betrayal and deception and characters you will love. Incredible world building and a few twists and turns to get you all turned around, it’s a dark and magical read, well paced and has you totally addicted and glued to the pages.

[G Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic read and while having read previous Scented Court books made the story more enjoyable it works equally well as a standalone.
I was quickly absorbed in the story and just had to keep reading until I reached the end.
Vesper has a darker past than previous characters but is instantly likeable. Regalis is her perfect match and I loved how the story played out.
Thus was a brilliant read that I can highly recommend.
Thanks for the ARC copy

[Jo Fouracre · Rating 5 out of 5]

yet again a wow from me

Al knorr yet again has thrown another incredibly book into her world. This world out of all of her worlds has my heart. I started of the series’ in the wrong order and I started with these.
This book was spellbinding from the start. Including previous calyx into the fold and including new. I won’t be leaving spoilers but you will need your tissues ! One of my most favourite reads this year !

[Madison Cline · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a great standalone but also a great book to add to the series a blossom at midnight! Our favorite characters from the series were mentioned but I loved meeting a new character! I so enjoyed diving into the character of Regalis and watching him fall in love! This story had action and mystery and gave a very different take on the same story I loved in the previous series! I am a huge fan of the familiars as an animal lover myself, so I really enjoyed this text!

[Aizlynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A.L. Knorr is a fantastic author. I listened to A Star of Darkness. This standalone ran me through a myriad of emotions. Though I know there are world building aspects that I would get if I read the rest of the Scented Court series, I didn't feel like anything was missing. It is a thoroughly enjoyable listen. The narrator's did an amazing job of bringing these characters to life. The rest of The Scented Court series has been bumped to the top of my TBR list.