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Stormvalor
In the heart of a tournament, where legends are born and destinies forged, the fate of kingdoms hangs in the balance.
Aethan Starkling, a lord with dreams as vast as the realm itself, has long yearned to prove himself in the prestigious Stormvalor Tournament.
Aslyn Kiernan, destined to ascend the throne of Novavito, faces her own dangerous trials. An ambitious suitor from the Emperor's court schemes to force her into a marriage that would jeopardize her kingdom's future. Confronted with treachery, Aslyn must navigate the perils of the tournament to secure her destiny—or risk losing everything she holds dear.
As the tournament unfolds, Aethan & Aslyn's path intersect—pushed together by parents who seek a strong marriage match, and drawn together by the threads of fate. Together, they discover that strength and honor alone are not enough to secure victory. The price of winning is far higher than they ever imagined.
Bast Blackblade, a hardened assassin, lives by the edge of his lethal blades, dismissing the notions of gods and friendship. But when his final payment for a completed job vanishes, Bast embarks on a treacherous journey that leads him to the heart of Stormvalor, where he seeks to disrupt the budding romance between Aethan and Aslyn for his own purposes.
As alliances shift and secrets unravel, Aethan, Aslyn, and Bast must confront the truth of their own beliefs and the price they are willing to pay for victory... and for love.
Aethan Starkling, a lord with dreams as vast as the realm itself, has long yearned to prove himself in the prestigious Stormvalor Tournament.
Aslyn Kiernan, destined to ascend the throne of Novavito, faces her own dangerous trials. An ambitious suitor from the Emperor's court schemes to force her into a marriage that would jeopardize her kingdom's future. Confronted with treachery, Aslyn must navigate the perils of the tournament to secure her destiny—or risk losing everything she holds dear.
As the tournament unfolds, Aethan & Aslyn's path intersect—pushed together by parents who seek a strong marriage match, and drawn together by the threads of fate. Together, they discover that strength and honor alone are not enough to secure victory. The price of winning is far higher than they ever imagined.
Bast Blackblade, a hardened assassin, lives by the edge of his lethal blades, dismissing the notions of gods and friendship. But when his final payment for a completed job vanishes, Bast embarks on a treacherous journey that leads him to the heart of Stormvalor, where he seeks to disrupt the budding romance between Aethan and Aslyn for his own purposes.
As alliances shift and secrets unravel, Aethan, Aslyn, and Bast must confront the truth of their own beliefs and the price they are willing to pay for victory... and for love.
- GenresFantasy
440 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2025
6 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Starr Z. Davies
24 books221 followersStarr Z. Davies is a bestselling author and winner of numerous book awards.
She writes by the lake, dreaming up new ways to torture her characters. She's best known for her soul-crushing historical fantasy and genre-blending dystopian worlds of futuristic cities and fantasy realms. She has recently shifted into the realm of epic fantasy novels, where she expects to settle for a long time to come.
Starr's an avid reader with a Bachelor's in writing and publishing. During undergrad, she gained a reputation as the Character Assassin, because she knew how to destroy (and often kill) her characters with impunity.
She's proficient at producing action-packed, character-rich stories that her readers love.
She writes by the lake, dreaming up new ways to torture her characters. She's best known for her soul-crushing historical fantasy and genre-blending dystopian worlds of futuristic cities and fantasy realms. She has recently shifted into the realm of epic fantasy novels, where she expects to settle for a long time to come.
Starr's an avid reader with a Bachelor's in writing and publishing. During undergrad, she gained a reputation as the Character Assassin, because she knew how to destroy (and often kill) her characters with impunity.
She's proficient at producing action-packed, character-rich stories that her readers love.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 14, 2025
I’m obsessed! Stormvalor is part soap opera, part epic fantasy, and all delicious drama. It had me in such a chokehold!
This is the kind of book that pulls you in immediately. The anachronistic dialogue won’t work for everyone, but I found it super accessible and easy to devour. It makes the world feel familiar and it was just what I needed.
I adore all three POVs. I adored watching Aethan and Aslyn befriending each other while navigating all the expectations dumped on them. Their friendship feels genuine, which makes the tension as they start to get feelings for one another even better. You know where things could go, but the way their individual goals complicate that connection adds so much. And Bast? I NEED more of him. Especially with that ending. He’s sharp-edged, fascinating, morally murky, and I could not stop reading whenever he was on the page.
There’s something really satisfying about how each character is doing their own thing, driven by their own motives, but the story pulls them together in this inevitable way. I love when you can see all the threads tightening as you turn the pages.
Yes, there’s romance here. Yes, there’s politics and court tension and lethal competitions and betrayals. But what really shines is the drama. It’s the kind of book that makes you angry you have to do normal life things like work, because all you want is to get back to it. I was fully in its grip, thinking about it constantly.
Romantasy fans who are craving character-driven tension, strong relationship dynamics, and plot alongside the swoons? Stormvalor needs to be on your radar. I adored this one, and I’m already impatient for more.
Thanks so much to the author and R&R Book Tours for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This is the kind of book that pulls you in immediately. The anachronistic dialogue won’t work for everyone, but I found it super accessible and easy to devour. It makes the world feel familiar and it was just what I needed.
I adore all three POVs. I adored watching Aethan and Aslyn befriending each other while navigating all the expectations dumped on them. Their friendship feels genuine, which makes the tension as they start to get feelings for one another even better. You know where things could go, but the way their individual goals complicate that connection adds so much. And Bast? I NEED more of him. Especially with that ending. He’s sharp-edged, fascinating, morally murky, and I could not stop reading whenever he was on the page.
There’s something really satisfying about how each character is doing their own thing, driven by their own motives, but the story pulls them together in this inevitable way. I love when you can see all the threads tightening as you turn the pages.
Yes, there’s romance here. Yes, there’s politics and court tension and lethal competitions and betrayals. But what really shines is the drama. It’s the kind of book that makes you angry you have to do normal life things like work, because all you want is to get back to it. I was fully in its grip, thinking about it constantly.
Romantasy fans who are craving character-driven tension, strong relationship dynamics, and plot alongside the swoons? Stormvalor needs to be on your radar. I adored this one, and I’m already impatient for more.
Thanks so much to the author and R&R Book Tours for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
June 8, 2025
Well I loved that. 3 POVs with complimentary but differing end goals. Aslyn is heir to the throne, attending the Stormvalor tournament in hopes of finding a husband. Aethan is the expected champion who just wants to win to earn back the "love of his life" and Aslyn's intended target. no matter how much they both fight it. Bast is an assassin trying to steal Aslyn's family jewel for his "contract partner". the tournament is high stakes and bloody and the court intrigue that comes along with it will keep you slipping pages. the cliffhanger was a little brutal and I look forward to more.
*thank you Starr for the eARC*
*thank you Starr for the eARC*
June 10, 2025
Stormvalor
An exciting action-packed fantasy that kept me on the edge of my seat! I loved the stores and the end… oh I’m dying for more!
The story switched between three different character Bast, a mysterious deadly assassin; Aethan, a honorable swordsman lord, and Aslyn, a feisty princess.
I enjoyed the different characters! Bast is one of my favorites and I look forward to learning more about him! Aethan was an honorable character and he sought to do the right thing. He was definitely someone worth rooting for. Aslyn was an enjoyable character as well. She was fierce and I loved her personality.
The story had so much going on with deadly tournaments, political intrigue, lots of drama, multiple husband searches, and so much more!!
Tropes in here included; friends to lovers, fake dating, seeking a suitor, mysterious assassin, honorable swordsman, feisty princesses, deadly tournament, magic, deadly creatures, political intrigue, multiple POVs, touch her and xx vibes, loyal friends, mystery, and more!
An exciting action-packed fantasy that kept me on the edge of my seat! I loved the stores and the end… oh I’m dying for more!
The story switched between three different character Bast, a mysterious deadly assassin; Aethan, a honorable swordsman lord, and Aslyn, a feisty princess.
I enjoyed the different characters! Bast is one of my favorites and I look forward to learning more about him! Aethan was an honorable character and he sought to do the right thing. He was definitely someone worth rooting for. Aslyn was an enjoyable character as well. She was fierce and I loved her personality.
The story had so much going on with deadly tournaments, political intrigue, lots of drama, multiple husband searches, and so much more!!
Tropes in here included; friends to lovers, fake dating, seeking a suitor, mysterious assassin, honorable swordsman, feisty princesses, deadly tournament, magic, deadly creatures, political intrigue, multiple POVs, touch her and xx vibes, loyal friends, mystery, and more!
May 12, 2025
The book follows 3 POVs. Aslyn: the princess of Novavito, heir to the throne, who’s being forced to find a husband worthy of being king consort. Aethan: a nobleman from the kingdom Vorovesti, who has trained his entire life for the Stormvalor Tournament and is favored to be the champion. Bast: an infamous assassin known as Blackblade who’s hired to steal the Jewel of Arithia that’s wrapped around the princess’ neck, however, no one knows that he possesses the most illegal weapon in all five kingdoms… magic.
I loved the character development throughout this book and the plot twists at the end. This was an amazing fantasy book that has tension, banter, combat, magic, and more. Also, I enjoyed how Starr Z Davies finished this first book. It sets up the next book to explore so much more of the five kingdoms and how each main character has a mission to accomplish. Obviously, I want the next book in my hands now, but it’s okay, I’ll wait.
I received this book as an ARC and I’d like to thank Starr for giving me this opportunity! I enjoyed being part of your new world!
I loved the character development throughout this book and the plot twists at the end. This was an amazing fantasy book that has tension, banter, combat, magic, and more. Also, I enjoyed how Starr Z Davies finished this first book. It sets up the next book to explore so much more of the five kingdoms and how each main character has a mission to accomplish. Obviously, I want the next book in my hands now, but it’s okay, I’ll wait.
I received this book as an ARC and I’d like to thank Starr for giving me this opportunity! I enjoyed being part of your new world!
September 29, 2025
What It’s About:
A breathtaking fantasy about a princess fighting for her kingdom, a swordsman caught between honor and destiny, and an assassin torn between duty and desire. All while ancient gods, forbidden magic, and political schemes close in from every direction. It’s about power, sacrifice, and love in a world where every choice carries deadly weight.
What Stuck With Me:
This book had me completely hooked. It’s filled with romance, betrayal, impossible choices, and gut-punch twists I didn’t see coming. It gave me Throne of Glass vibes in the best way, but still felt fresh and unpredictable. The emotional highs were beautiful (seriously swoon-worthy), and the lows absolutely wrecked me. By the end, I was clinging to every page.
What You’ll Find Here:
Romance, heartbreak, and a pain
Political intrigue and dangerous alliances
Ancient mysteries, magical relics, and whispers of the gods
An ending that will leave you desperate for book two
Recommended For:
Readers who love epic fantasy with romance, betrayal, and heart-stopping twists. Perfect if you enjoyed Throne of Glass, The Hunger Games, or stories that mix court intrigue with forbidden magic and gut-punch emotion.
A breathtaking fantasy about a princess fighting for her kingdom, a swordsman caught between honor and destiny, and an assassin torn between duty and desire. All while ancient gods, forbidden magic, and political schemes close in from every direction. It’s about power, sacrifice, and love in a world where every choice carries deadly weight.
What Stuck With Me:
This book had me completely hooked. It’s filled with romance, betrayal, impossible choices, and gut-punch twists I didn’t see coming. It gave me Throne of Glass vibes in the best way, but still felt fresh and unpredictable. The emotional highs were beautiful (seriously swoon-worthy), and the lows absolutely wrecked me. By the end, I was clinging to every page.
What You’ll Find Here:
Romance, heartbreak, and a pain
Political intrigue and dangerous alliances
Ancient mysteries, magical relics, and whispers of the gods
An ending that will leave you desperate for book two
Recommended For:
Readers who love epic fantasy with romance, betrayal, and heart-stopping twists. Perfect if you enjoyed Throne of Glass, The Hunger Games, or stories that mix court intrigue with forbidden magic and gut-punch emotion.
September 29, 2025
A Thrill!
This book sucked me in right from the beginning. Developed mythology, a high-stakes assassination, obvious palace intrigue. This book is a chonk but with three different points-of-view and dozens of moving parts it needs to be. Davies’ characters are real and easy to root for, and pulled at my heartstrings at every turn. This book hints at pieces of a much larger story that I can’t wait to unravel in further books.
This book sucked me in right from the beginning. Developed mythology, a high-stakes assassination, obvious palace intrigue. This book is a chonk but with three different points-of-view and dozens of moving parts it needs to be. Davies’ characters are real and easy to root for, and pulled at my heartstrings at every turn. This book hints at pieces of a much larger story that I can’t wait to unravel in further books.
July 3, 2025
This is not my normal genre. I loved it. I thought the plot was going one way, and just when I thought it was done, a whole new part came alive. I highly recommend this book.
February 27, 2025
Aethan Starkling has always dreamed of carving his name into legend by competing in the brutal Stormvalor Tournament. Meanwhile, Aslyn Kiernan, the destined ruler of Novavito, faces a different kind of battle, one where politics and power play threaten to strip her of agency. A suitor from the Emperor’s court is determined to force her into a marriage she wants no part of. As fate weaves their paths together, Aethan and Aslyn discover an undeniable spark. However, their budding connection has drawn the attention of a ruthless assassin, Bast Backblade. With both of them in his sights, he is more than willing to extinguish their romance before it ever has a chance to bloom. Will love triumph, or will destiny take a darker turn?
Stormvalor, the first novel in Starr Z. Davies' new fantasy series, delivers an exhilarating blend of high-stakes competition, courtly intrigue, and thrilling action. Fans of sprawling fantasy sagas like Game of Thrones and classic epics such as the Dragonlance series will find much to admire in Davies’ intricate world-building and layered storytelling.
Aethan and Aslyn emerge as compelling leads, each facing dangers that test their limits. Aethan is in the punishing trials of the tournament, and Aslyn is in the treacherous dance of political maneuvering. Their individual struggles are as captivating as their growing connection, making their journey all the more engaging. Davies skillfully balances intense, visceral combat with sharp, strategic dialogue, proving her prowess in both action-driven and character-driven narratives. The ebb and flow between fast-paced sequences and quieter, more introspective moments allow the story’s emotional weight to fully resonate.
The novel’s world-building is another of its greatest strengths. Novavito feels rich with history and tradition, immersing readers in a land shaped by both honor and deception. Meanwhile, Bast Backblade stands as a formidable antagonist, cunning, ruthless, and layered enough to elevate the stakes beyond simple villainy. His presence injects a relentless tension into the story, ensuring that danger lurks around every corner.
With its gripping plot, dynamic characters, and expertly crafted setting, Stormvalor is a fantasy adventure that leaves a lasting impression. Davies has laid a strong foundation for what promises to be an enthralling series, and a return to this world cannot come soon enough.
Stormvalor, the first novel in Starr Z. Davies' new fantasy series, delivers an exhilarating blend of high-stakes competition, courtly intrigue, and thrilling action. Fans of sprawling fantasy sagas like Game of Thrones and classic epics such as the Dragonlance series will find much to admire in Davies’ intricate world-building and layered storytelling.
Aethan and Aslyn emerge as compelling leads, each facing dangers that test their limits. Aethan is in the punishing trials of the tournament, and Aslyn is in the treacherous dance of political maneuvering. Their individual struggles are as captivating as their growing connection, making their journey all the more engaging. Davies skillfully balances intense, visceral combat with sharp, strategic dialogue, proving her prowess in both action-driven and character-driven narratives. The ebb and flow between fast-paced sequences and quieter, more introspective moments allow the story’s emotional weight to fully resonate.
The novel’s world-building is another of its greatest strengths. Novavito feels rich with history and tradition, immersing readers in a land shaped by both honor and deception. Meanwhile, Bast Backblade stands as a formidable antagonist, cunning, ruthless, and layered enough to elevate the stakes beyond simple villainy. His presence injects a relentless tension into the story, ensuring that danger lurks around every corner.
With its gripping plot, dynamic characters, and expertly crafted setting, Stormvalor is a fantasy adventure that leaves a lasting impression. Davies has laid a strong foundation for what promises to be an enthralling series, and a return to this world cannot come soon enough.
March 11, 2025
Review by Readers Favorite Reviews can be found here.
Divica Stormborn Chronicles Book 1 by Starr Z. Davies is an epic novel that centers around Aethan Starkling, a young nobleman from the kingdom of Vorovesti, who would be fighting in the Stormvalor Tournament, an event that brings warriors from five kingdoms to see who stands out as the Stormvalor Champion. While Aethan was trying to make a name for himself, he was battling with personal struggles. Meanwhile, Aslyn, the princess of Novavito, was torn between her feelings of responsibility for her kingdom and, at the same time, her need for genuine connection.
Blackblade, an infamous assassin known for his mastery and strength, was hired to steal the Jewel of Arithia, which would have great consequences. As the different characters crossed paths during the Stormvalor tournament, they were forced not only to confront their inner struggles but also the external threats and shadowy figures that sought to destroy the kingdom.
It was fascinating to see how well the characters were developed and the unique challenges and personal struggles each one of them faced, like Aethan's breakup with Iskra and the pressure from his father to have a political marriage with Aslyn. I loved how Davies added different plot twists and suspense to the plot while also going deep into the emotional lives of the characters. The action scenes were thrilling and well-choreographed and gave me a feeling of uncertainty and tension with the magic, sword fights, and hand-to-hand combat. I recommend Stormvalor by Starr Z. Davies to epic fantasy lovers who enjoy rich character development and engaging storylines, as well as books that cover themes of honor, duty, and loyalty.
Divica Stormborn Chronicles Book 1 by Starr Z. Davies is an epic novel that centers around Aethan Starkling, a young nobleman from the kingdom of Vorovesti, who would be fighting in the Stormvalor Tournament, an event that brings warriors from five kingdoms to see who stands out as the Stormvalor Champion. While Aethan was trying to make a name for himself, he was battling with personal struggles. Meanwhile, Aslyn, the princess of Novavito, was torn between her feelings of responsibility for her kingdom and, at the same time, her need for genuine connection.
Blackblade, an infamous assassin known for his mastery and strength, was hired to steal the Jewel of Arithia, which would have great consequences. As the different characters crossed paths during the Stormvalor tournament, they were forced not only to confront their inner struggles but also the external threats and shadowy figures that sought to destroy the kingdom.
It was fascinating to see how well the characters were developed and the unique challenges and personal struggles each one of them faced, like Aethan's breakup with Iskra and the pressure from his father to have a political marriage with Aslyn. I loved how Davies added different plot twists and suspense to the plot while also going deep into the emotional lives of the characters. The action scenes were thrilling and well-choreographed and gave me a feeling of uncertainty and tension with the magic, sword fights, and hand-to-hand combat. I recommend Stormvalor by Starr Z. Davies to epic fantasy lovers who enjoy rich character development and engaging storylines, as well as books that cover themes of honor, duty, and loyalty.
June 9, 2025
“My heart is my own. If you want a place in it, you have to fight for that spot.”
This is an epic high fantasy series that has fantastic world building with fast pace action, multiple POVs, political and court politics that give serious evil imperial emperor vibes, dangerous gladiator-like tournament, fascinating lore and lost prophecies, and vibrant characters. On the romance side of the story there is spice, good old touch her and XX, where she falls first but he falls harder.
This story follows Aslyn, Princess and heir to the throne of Novavito who must find a husband that meets their rigorous standards of King Consort. Then there is the nobleman from a neighboring kingdom of Vorovesti, Aethan, favored champion for the upcoming Stormvalor Tournament due to his lifelong trainings and determination. Aslyn and Aethan paths are forever intertwined by fate, by their parents willful persistance to make a good match, and by duty and honor. The last piece of the puzzle is Bast A.K.A. Blackblade, the famed assassin who is hired to steal the literal jewels from around the Princess’ neck but he has his own agenda… chaos in the budding relationship between the Princess and her new suitor… oh and he has forbidden secret magic. The three must discover and decide how far they are willing to go to claim victory and most importantly, love.
I appreciated how the lore was well developed and thought out, full of tradition and legends passed down through the generations. As a huge fan of almost every mythology, I am naturally drawn to fantasy series that showcase unique lores. The only drawback for me was that some of the plot points were predictable, didn’t make the story less than, just not as easy to get lost in for me.
Aethan sensed this sword was meant for him. It whispered a name into his bones.
This is an epic high fantasy series that has fantastic world building with fast pace action, multiple POVs, political and court politics that give serious evil imperial emperor vibes, dangerous gladiator-like tournament, fascinating lore and lost prophecies, and vibrant characters. On the romance side of the story there is spice, good old touch her and XX, where she falls first but he falls harder.
This story follows Aslyn, Princess and heir to the throne of Novavito who must find a husband that meets their rigorous standards of King Consort. Then there is the nobleman from a neighboring kingdom of Vorovesti, Aethan, favored champion for the upcoming Stormvalor Tournament due to his lifelong trainings and determination. Aslyn and Aethan paths are forever intertwined by fate, by their parents willful persistance to make a good match, and by duty and honor. The last piece of the puzzle is Bast A.K.A. Blackblade, the famed assassin who is hired to steal the literal jewels from around the Princess’ neck but he has his own agenda… chaos in the budding relationship between the Princess and her new suitor… oh and he has forbidden secret magic. The three must discover and decide how far they are willing to go to claim victory and most importantly, love.
I appreciated how the lore was well developed and thought out, full of tradition and legends passed down through the generations. As a huge fan of almost every mythology, I am naturally drawn to fantasy series that showcase unique lores. The only drawback for me was that some of the plot points were predictable, didn’t make the story less than, just not as easy to get lost in for me.
Aethan sensed this sword was meant for him. It whispered a name into his bones.
June 10, 2025
I want to start by saying how thankful I am for receiving an ARC copy of this book. It's stunning!
I love a multiple POV book as long as it's done well, and Stormvalor is exactly that! This story follows three main characters with very different missions. Aslyn is the heir to the throne being forced to marry one of the Stormvalor contestants. Aethan is participating in Stormvalor and hopes to win back his former love. Bast is an assassin who reluctantly finds himself on a mission to steal Aslyn's family jewel, the jewel of Arithia.
My favorite aspect of this read was the in-depth world building. From political intrigue to fantasy mythology, this world was engrossing. Pair that with a gripping plot, and you have yourself a wonderful story.
The characters are well fleshed out, and you really get to be "inside their heads," so to speak. With the multiple povs, we truly see what drives each of them. As the story progresses, Aslyn and Aethan find an undeniable connection, but Bast lurks around every corner, bringing tension and danger.
I will say that if you dont enjoy books like Game of Thrones or those with court or political issues, some scenes may seem slow paced. All in all, I really enjoyed this book!
I love a multiple POV book as long as it's done well, and Stormvalor is exactly that! This story follows three main characters with very different missions. Aslyn is the heir to the throne being forced to marry one of the Stormvalor contestants. Aethan is participating in Stormvalor and hopes to win back his former love. Bast is an assassin who reluctantly finds himself on a mission to steal Aslyn's family jewel, the jewel of Arithia.
My favorite aspect of this read was the in-depth world building. From political intrigue to fantasy mythology, this world was engrossing. Pair that with a gripping plot, and you have yourself a wonderful story.
The characters are well fleshed out, and you really get to be "inside their heads," so to speak. With the multiple povs, we truly see what drives each of them. As the story progresses, Aslyn and Aethan find an undeniable connection, but Bast lurks around every corner, bringing tension and danger.
I will say that if you dont enjoy books like Game of Thrones or those with court or political issues, some scenes may seem slow paced. All in all, I really enjoyed this book!
May 18, 2025
This book had a very intriguing foundation in that it is built around the Stormvalor Tournament. We have three very well developed characters in this book: Aethan, Aslyn, and Bast.
Aslyn is the heor to the throne. However , she is tasked with finding the perfect mate that will make the ultimate king consort. Aethan is the one person who has been preparing for the Stormvalor Tournament his entire life. He wants to come out of the tournament on top and all those around him feel like he has the best chance to win the tournament. Bast is an assassin who has his own agenda.
This book has action and intrigue. It's got political drama and an amazing tournament. You see the characters each dealing with their own individual stressors and drama yet I love how long the way each one of them is discovering something about themselves as well.
I always love a book that has multiple points of view because I feel like I truly get to know the characters when I get to see their side of.things. i actually enjoyed this book more than I expected to.
Aslyn is the heor to the throne. However , she is tasked with finding the perfect mate that will make the ultimate king consort. Aethan is the one person who has been preparing for the Stormvalor Tournament his entire life. He wants to come out of the tournament on top and all those around him feel like he has the best chance to win the tournament. Bast is an assassin who has his own agenda.
This book has action and intrigue. It's got political drama and an amazing tournament. You see the characters each dealing with their own individual stressors and drama yet I love how long the way each one of them is discovering something about themselves as well.
I always love a book that has multiple points of view because I feel like I truly get to know the characters when I get to see their side of.things. i actually enjoyed this book more than I expected to.
December 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
I was completely taken by surprise by this book. I was hooked from the first page to the last. Seriously, I'm starting book two ASAP!
The story is built around three distinct paths that beautifully collide: Ashlyn, a fierce princess who is in search for a husband to help rule her kingdom, Aethan, who is set to be the champion in the Stormvalor Tournament, and finally, Blackblade, our shadow wielding assassin who is blackmailed into stealing from the princess.
I love how their individual quests ultimately tie their fates together.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥Book 1/ Fantasy Series
➳❥ Friends to Lovers
➳❥ Fake Dating
➳❥ Political Intrigue
➳❥ Dangerous Tournament
➳❥ Forbidden Magic
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼
“𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗮 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲.”
“𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝘃𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱.”
“𝗜𝗳 𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻'𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗷𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝗺 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗵𝗲'𝘀 𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗹. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝘁.”
“𝗠𝘆 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗼𝘄𝗻. 𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝘁, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁.”
“𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗮 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲 𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱, 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂.”
“𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝘁…𝗜 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘂𝗻𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁, 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀.”
I was completely taken by surprise by this book. I was hooked from the first page to the last. Seriously, I'm starting book two ASAP!
The story is built around three distinct paths that beautifully collide: Ashlyn, a fierce princess who is in search for a husband to help rule her kingdom, Aethan, who is set to be the champion in the Stormvalor Tournament, and finally, Blackblade, our shadow wielding assassin who is blackmailed into stealing from the princess.
I love how their individual quests ultimately tie their fates together.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥Book 1/ Fantasy Series
➳❥ Friends to Lovers
➳❥ Fake Dating
➳❥ Political Intrigue
➳❥ Dangerous Tournament
➳❥ Forbidden Magic
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼
“𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗮 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲.”
“𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝘃𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱.”
“𝗜𝗳 𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻'𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗷𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝗺 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗵𝗲'𝘀 𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗹. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝘁.”
“𝗠𝘆 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗼𝘄𝗻. 𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝘁, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁.”
“𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗮 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲 𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱, 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂.”
“𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝘁…𝗜 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘂𝗻𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁, 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀.”
June 9, 2025
You know that feeling when you read a book so good it instantly becomes one of your favorites? The kind that pulls you in, makes you root for the characters, cry with them, keeps you glued to the pages—and then afterward, when someone asks what it’s about, all you can say is, “You HAVE to read it”? This is that kind of book.
A deadly tournament. A fight to prove your worth. A chance to find a husband—or to steal one.
Told through shifting POVs of three very different characters, the story paints an intense and vivid picture that ratchets up the tension and keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
I was completely sucked in. The writing is so immersive, it feels like you're right there in the heart of the action. Even days—weeks—after finishing it, I still find myself thinking about the characters and all the what ifs.
Highly recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy.
A deadly tournament. A fight to prove your worth. A chance to find a husband—or to steal one.
Told through shifting POVs of three very different characters, the story paints an intense and vivid picture that ratchets up the tension and keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
I was completely sucked in. The writing is so immersive, it feels like you're right there in the heart of the action. Even days—weeks—after finishing it, I still find myself thinking about the characters and all the what ifs.
Highly recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy.
May 14, 2025
I normally do a non fantasy palate cleanser between fantasies and I made the mistake of not doing that this time. I was so excited to get a chance to read this book before release and jumped right in. I feel that did it a disservice from the jump. Because of that, I felt the book took a bit to get going for me. But once I got into it several chapters I started to really become interested in where it was heading. Some plot points were easy enough to guess but that doesn’t diminish my liking of a book even slightly. By the ending, I was fully invested in the characters. The relationships both platonic and romantic that developed along the way were nice to see manifesting towards the end. In the end, I think this is a solid start to a series. Any fantasy with trials and talks of gods is worth exploring. Ended on a cliffhanger and definitely excited to see where book 2 takes them.
June 14, 2025
Stormvalor is Book #1 in the Divica StormbornChronicles and it gives me very much Gladiator meets the Bachelorette vibes ♥️
What’s inside:
⚔️ Fake Dating
✨ Dangerous Assassin
⚔️ She falls first, He falls harder
✨ Touch Her & Die
⚔️ Strong FMC
✨ Friends to Lovers
⚔️ Bachelorette Vibes
This was such a unique story, especially with 3 different POVs, which allowed me to get to know the characters SO much better. I’m usually not a friends to lovers trope gal, but this one was most definitely an exception. The tension in this book was lovelyyyy. A deadly tournament and several suitors vying for your attention and to be your next husband? Yeah, count me in.
What’s inside:
⚔️ Fake Dating
✨ Dangerous Assassin
⚔️ She falls first, He falls harder
✨ Touch Her & Die
⚔️ Strong FMC
✨ Friends to Lovers
⚔️ Bachelorette Vibes
This was such a unique story, especially with 3 different POVs, which allowed me to get to know the characters SO much better. I’m usually not a friends to lovers trope gal, but this one was most definitely an exception. The tension in this book was lovelyyyy. A deadly tournament and several suitors vying for your attention and to be your next husband? Yeah, count me in.
June 9, 2025
Wow! Starr Z. Davies never fails to disappoint with her world building and rich character development. This is the first book of an epic fantasy series encompassing rival kingdoms, hidden magic, deadly battles and even a touch of spicy romance. I cheered alongside Aethan as I worried about his safety and stood behind the brave and beautiful Aslyn, princess of Novavito, but the most intriguing character was Blackbade, a hardened assassin who lives in the shadows - I think there is more to him than meets the eye. The ending was absolute perfection, leaving me yearning for book two!
June 9, 2025
I love that this story follows different people throughout the book I’m a huge fan of multiple povs
Just seeing everything these characters go through is so heartbreaking but the way they do it with honor ( for most of them ) is a nice touch but I seriously wanted to punch a few through the pages
That ending tho excuse me I’m gonna need more immediately please and thank you
Be prepared for twists and turns and be warned you may stay up way to late to finish
Just seeing everything these characters go through is so heartbreaking but the way they do it with honor ( for most of them ) is a nice touch but I seriously wanted to punch a few through the pages
That ending tho excuse me I’m gonna need more immediately please and thank you
Be prepared for twists and turns and be warned you may stay up way to late to finish
June 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! I loved the multiple POVs and the world building was so descriptive. I liked Aslyn, Aethan, and even Bast. Aslyn is heir to the throne and must find a mate in the participants of the Stormvalor competition. Aethan is the top contender and is determined to win so he can get back with her. Bast is an assassin tasked with stealing the jewel of Arithia.
This one has political intrigue, spice, and will keep you reading from beginning to end!
This one has political intrigue, spice, and will keep you reading from beginning to end!
June 9, 2025
Yet another excellent story from Starr. Great characters complete with flaws which just make them more believable. This is the first part of a tale which is a good stand alone read. Nice hook into part two at the end of the book. Not getting any spoilers from me I enjoyed the story and don't want to taint your enjoyment.
June 5, 2025
I absolutely loved the book. the twists and the characters, though I definitely don't know if I would choose Bast or Aethan 😅.
And the ending 😭🥺. I need book 2 yesterday! I loved the lore and can't wait to learn more!
And the ending 😭🥺. I need book 2 yesterday! I loved the lore and can't wait to learn more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2024
Think the selection and hunger games almost. With a dark shadow assassin and a prince charming. Great multipov story with constant tension, action, romance, and mystery.
December 11, 2025
Review to come
June 8, 2025
The tournament isn’t the gameboard…
…it’s merely the circus to distract from the ringleaders’ game of “Kings and Queens and Guillotines”. There’s even food to keep the masses happy whilst the powers that be (and those who wanna be) literally play with the fates of others. There’s more backstabbing behind the scenes than there is in the arena. And that’s merely a description of the *romantic* aspect of this tale…
Some sage advice from the author:
Avoid the impulsivity that jealousy relishes.
Don’t sacrifice your principles for a cause or person unworthy.
The most effective tools (for any noble) are connections and information.
Don’t allow your moral compass to be used by others as a weapon against you.
Fave lines:
‘Everyone has enemies, princess’
What price, victory? Will Ashlyn and Aethan need to sacrifice their love (and perhaps their lives) for their responsibilities? Can’t wait to find out in the next in series!
…it’s merely the circus to distract from the ringleaders’ game of “Kings and Queens and Guillotines”. There’s even food to keep the masses happy whilst the powers that be (and those who wanna be) literally play with the fates of others. There’s more backstabbing behind the scenes than there is in the arena. And that’s merely a description of the *romantic* aspect of this tale…
Some sage advice from the author:
Avoid the impulsivity that jealousy relishes.
Don’t sacrifice your principles for a cause or person unworthy.
The most effective tools (for any noble) are connections and information.
Don’t allow your moral compass to be used by others as a weapon against you.
Fave lines:
‘Everyone has enemies, princess’
What price, victory? Will Ashlyn and Aethan need to sacrifice their love (and perhaps their lives) for their responsibilities? Can’t wait to find out in the next in series!
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