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Stargazers Salvation
The Andromedas system is vast, but even its expanse feels small under the dominion of the Sol throne. Tara Ravi was meant to inherit that throne—if only she hadn't been born without a Sol.
With the weight of failure already on her shoulders, Tara must now prove her worth by finding a new way to serve the Sun. Her only chance lies in graduating from one of the five sectors of the War Academy. But as Tara soon discovers, surviving the trials isn't as simple as it seems. Her dubious choices in allies-and in love
—only worsen her odds.
Yet, death is not the only thing lurking in the dark. An ancient force is beginning to stir, unraveling the lies that have long bound it. As it awakens, Tara finds herself drawn to the promise of what it may reveal - the answer to a question long forgotten.
What she was made for.
With the weight of failure already on her shoulders, Tara must now prove her worth by finding a new way to serve the Sun. Her only chance lies in graduating from one of the five sectors of the War Academy. But as Tara soon discovers, surviving the trials isn't as simple as it seems. Her dubious choices in allies-and in love
—only worsen her odds.
Yet, death is not the only thing lurking in the dark. An ancient force is beginning to stir, unraveling the lies that have long bound it. As it awakens, Tara finds herself drawn to the promise of what it may reveal - the answer to a question long forgotten.
What she was made for.
350 pages, Paperback
Published May 4, 2025
50 people are currently reading
419 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 10, 2025
okay, so have been waiting for this book to be released since A.R. Schilling started putting the idea for this book on insta.
I really like the idea and has been sat in my amazon list since first launch (before getting pulled and being re-release in may).
I enjoyed the book, took me a few days as child decided to not let me read.
defo not flawless, or 5 stars but the series could certainly get up there.
I enjoyed the characters although sometimes got confused about who they were talking about as both first and surnames were used to identify, but again, not the end of the world.
last 100 pages is defo where action was setting in and the last line 😱😱😱
Just sat and stared at kindle for a few seconds before going... she is such a bad ass! I love her.
agree with some of the other reviews, world building was lacking but I'm all about the vibes, and they were defo there!
and would love to have read about the first 3 yrs and how Tara and Vega becoming friends, but that's what short stories and prequels are for 😁
Good Book, 3 stars... can't wait for the second :)
I really like the idea and has been sat in my amazon list since first launch (before getting pulled and being re-release in may).
I enjoyed the book, took me a few days as child decided to not let me read.
defo not flawless, or 5 stars but the series could certainly get up there.
I enjoyed the characters although sometimes got confused about who they were talking about as both first and surnames were used to identify, but again, not the end of the world.
last 100 pages is defo where action was setting in and the last line 😱😱😱
Just sat and stared at kindle for a few seconds before going... she is such a bad ass! I love her.
agree with some of the other reviews, world building was lacking but I'm all about the vibes, and they were defo there!
and would love to have read about the first 3 yrs and how Tara and Vega becoming friends, but that's what short stories and prequels are for 😁
Good Book, 3 stars... can't wait for the second :)
June 19, 2025
Poorly written, boring and all tell but not show. The characters did nothing to draw me in, they felt very flat, and whilst I hate info dumps I need SOME background and world building.
DNF
DNF
November 12, 2024
Yes, yes, yes and YES!
This book was everything I could ask for and more! A futuristic fantasy with hints of romance and spice and corrupt kindgoms and rebels and soulmates and more! My only complaint? There’s not more of it (yet)! I’m Obsessed!
Take a trip to this magical world where Tara is the rejected princess training at the War College of the Andromedas. Meet her soul-bonded best friend, Vega and Obi, the two most important people in her life, and navigate life with her as she discovers herself and realizes that things aren’t exactly as they seem.
This book is a wonderful story that captivated me from the second I started. Only 10 pages in, I knew I was hooked! Tara is such a believable character and the love between her and her friends Obi and Vega is cosmic! Growing and learning with her was such a fun adventure, and the way that A.R. Schilling approached worldbuilding was phenomenal, incorporating the information into the story as our main characters taught the information to the younger classes.
Overall, this story was a 5/5 ⭐️and 2/5 🌶️
This book was everything I could ask for and more! A futuristic fantasy with hints of romance and spice and corrupt kindgoms and rebels and soulmates and more! My only complaint? There’s not more of it (yet)! I’m Obsessed!
Take a trip to this magical world where Tara is the rejected princess training at the War College of the Andromedas. Meet her soul-bonded best friend, Vega and Obi, the two most important people in her life, and navigate life with her as she discovers herself and realizes that things aren’t exactly as they seem.
This book is a wonderful story that captivated me from the second I started. Only 10 pages in, I knew I was hooked! Tara is such a believable character and the love between her and her friends Obi and Vega is cosmic! Growing and learning with her was such a fun adventure, and the way that A.R. Schilling approached worldbuilding was phenomenal, incorporating the information into the story as our main characters taught the information to the younger classes.
Overall, this story was a 5/5 ⭐️and 2/5 🌶️
June 16, 2025
Thank you so much NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with a review copy. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this one. When I heard it was for fans of divergent I knew I had to read it and I was not disappointed! I was hooked the first 30% and found the world building and characters intriguing. I like that it mixes fantasy with space, such a cool concept. I also really love the friendship between Tara and Vega. That they would do literally anything for each other. Jasper was also an intriguing character and it was fun to see his and Tara’s relationship evolve. I really like them together. There’s also twists and turns, and of course, rebels! It was very exiting at the end and I can’t wait to see where this story goes! The drawings were also a fun addition to the book and I wish more books would do that. It made it easier to understand and remember parts of the world building.
Even though I enjoyed it overall, I wish we could have had some more world building right away. It is sprinkled throughout the story but it’s also too little when it first comes. I would have liked to know about the other kingdoms/systems with fae, demons and shape shifters from the start, I feel like that’s a vital part of the world building. I also didn’t quite grasp the different bonds one could have so when they were mentioned again after the explanation I didn’t remember the meaning. The time jumping in the beginning was also a bit weird. I wish we could have gotten to know the characters better in the 2-3 years that were cut and how their relationships came to be. I can’t figure out Atlas for instance. First he’s kind and flirty and then he’s super mean, I don’t get it. I feel like Tara was acting a bit weird around him too and gave the reader mixed signals. I also don’t understand how Tara and Vega came to be such good friends seeing as we’re told they hated each other in the beginning. How they became friends I would have liked elaborated more other than that they were bonded and had to become friends kind of? Lastly, I wish we would have gotten more scenes with Tara in her aeronautics class. That’s what she chose even though she was not supposed to but I feel like that fact was a bit cast aside. There were no consequences for choosing that? Hopefully we’ll get some more answers in the next book. Oh and, we’re reminded time and time again that this is a dangerous academy but apart from the one crash and that one character was stabbed at the beginning of the book I didn’t get the feeling that this was so dangerous.
So overall, I like the writing style, world building and characters very much but the execution was a bit messy for me to give it a higher rating.
I really enjoyed this one. When I heard it was for fans of divergent I knew I had to read it and I was not disappointed! I was hooked the first 30% and found the world building and characters intriguing. I like that it mixes fantasy with space, such a cool concept. I also really love the friendship between Tara and Vega. That they would do literally anything for each other. Jasper was also an intriguing character and it was fun to see his and Tara’s relationship evolve. I really like them together. There’s also twists and turns, and of course, rebels! It was very exiting at the end and I can’t wait to see where this story goes! The drawings were also a fun addition to the book and I wish more books would do that. It made it easier to understand and remember parts of the world building.
Even though I enjoyed it overall, I wish we could have had some more world building right away. It is sprinkled throughout the story but it’s also too little when it first comes. I would have liked to know about the other kingdoms/systems with fae, demons and shape shifters from the start, I feel like that’s a vital part of the world building. I also didn’t quite grasp the different bonds one could have so when they were mentioned again after the explanation I didn’t remember the meaning. The time jumping in the beginning was also a bit weird. I wish we could have gotten to know the characters better in the 2-3 years that were cut and how their relationships came to be. I can’t figure out Atlas for instance. First he’s kind and flirty and then he’s super mean, I don’t get it. I feel like Tara was acting a bit weird around him too and gave the reader mixed signals. I also don’t understand how Tara and Vega came to be such good friends seeing as we’re told they hated each other in the beginning. How they became friends I would have liked elaborated more other than that they were bonded and had to become friends kind of? Lastly, I wish we would have gotten more scenes with Tara in her aeronautics class. That’s what she chose even though she was not supposed to but I feel like that fact was a bit cast aside. There were no consequences for choosing that? Hopefully we’ll get some more answers in the next book. Oh and, we’re reminded time and time again that this is a dangerous academy but apart from the one crash and that one character was stabbed at the beginning of the book I didn’t get the feeling that this was so dangerous.
So overall, I like the writing style, world building and characters very much but the execution was a bit messy for me to give it a higher rating.
May 11, 2025
TL;DR: Good but not flawless, would definitely recommend.
First, the good:
I loved the story and the characters. Tara's friends and their relationships are beautiful and I found myself laughing frequently with them. The love and respect between all of them is fantastic. The pages from the notebooks of the students are hilarious and offer extra insight into the personalities of some of the characters, and I enjoyed their inclusion.
The less good:
The story borrows heavily from various other YA fantasy/dystopian novels. While some of the aspects are not original, they ARE arranged in such a way that it feels unique and engaging. This isn't simply a retelling of someone else's story, but sometimes, particularly near the beginning of the book, the recognition is a bit too strong (especially the Divergent vibes).
The not good:
The typos are infuriating. Particularly issues between words like creek vs creak, peek vs peak, the typos are frequent and should have been caught in any sort of editing phase of the book.
There are moments when the pace picks up and things start happening quite quickly, at which point the narrative can become very confusing. There were a few times I had to go back and re-read sections to try to figure out what was going on, only to conclude that, in fact, things had simply been left out.
The relationships between the characters are incredible, but the readers have no idea how they got there. There is a three-year time jump right at the beginning of the book, during which time all of the relationships are formed and we are just expected to believe the depth of the love or hatred or rivalry between the characters. I would love to see these moments explored in a novella or something, because frankly it feels like the character and relationship development got severely sidelined for the sake of the plot, but really there probably should have been an entire first book that built those relationships, particularly as there is plenty of hinting at interesting storylines and events that occurred during that three-year period that gets skipped.
Overall, though, I enjoyed the story and I was engaged enough that I read it in one full day (including when I should have been doing my job). I think the author had some great ideas, I love the way she writes, and the sprinkles of hints throughout the book of stories to come are compelling. I will definitely be reading the sequels when they come out, and I would definitely recommend this book because despite its flaws, it was fun and interesting.
First, the good:
I loved the story and the characters. Tara's friends and their relationships are beautiful and I found myself laughing frequently with them. The love and respect between all of them is fantastic. The pages from the notebooks of the students are hilarious and offer extra insight into the personalities of some of the characters, and I enjoyed their inclusion.
The less good:
The story borrows heavily from various other YA fantasy/dystopian novels. While some of the aspects are not original, they ARE arranged in such a way that it feels unique and engaging. This isn't simply a retelling of someone else's story, but sometimes, particularly near the beginning of the book, the recognition is a bit too strong (especially the Divergent vibes).
The not good:
The typos are infuriating. Particularly issues between words like creek vs creak, peek vs peak, the typos are frequent and should have been caught in any sort of editing phase of the book.
There are moments when the pace picks up and things start happening quite quickly, at which point the narrative can become very confusing. There were a few times I had to go back and re-read sections to try to figure out what was going on, only to conclude that, in fact, things had simply been left out.
The relationships between the characters are incredible, but the readers have no idea how they got there. There is a three-year time jump right at the beginning of the book, during which time all of the relationships are formed and we are just expected to believe the depth of the love or hatred or rivalry between the characters. I would love to see these moments explored in a novella or something, because frankly it feels like the character and relationship development got severely sidelined for the sake of the plot, but really there probably should have been an entire first book that built those relationships, particularly as there is plenty of hinting at interesting storylines and events that occurred during that three-year period that gets skipped.
Overall, though, I enjoyed the story and I was engaged enough that I read it in one full day (including when I should have been doing my job). I think the author had some great ideas, I love the way she writes, and the sprinkles of hints throughout the book of stories to come are compelling. I will definitely be reading the sequels when they come out, and I would definitely recommend this book because despite its flaws, it was fun and interesting.
June 18, 2025
I was really excited for this book when I found the posts on the author’s Instagram marketing the book. Though there are some really good points, I think overall this book was not for me.
✔ The strong friendship between Tara, Vega, and Obi was a joy to read about (though I do wish there was more backstory behind how they got that close).
✔ There is something about the way this author writes that is compelling - it kept me reading to the end despite not enjoying the way the plot was structured.
✖ The plot is both very fast and very slow. A lot of things happen in quick succession at times, but as it feels we are getting somewhere big, the momentum entirely stops and tries to return to the baseline level, which is very hard to follow.
✖ The overall timeline is also hard to follow - the large timeskip feels disjointed and I think takes away a lot of potential for worldbuilding and setting up the characters. We don’t spend a lot of time seeing what would have been formative years for Tara at Druinov which almost makes me feel like I’ve somehow skipped a nonexistent book 1, with all of the confusion following not understanding how we got somewhere.
✖ Speaking of worldbuilding, there were some very interesting tidbits thrown in about the school and the greater world but overall, a lot of things felt a bit either undercooked or not fully explained. The world this author is developing seems very cool but a whole book later, I feel like I know next to nothing about it.
✖ Atlas, Jasper, and Tara’s love triangle gave me very weird vibes - I didn’t feel strongly about either love interest by the end. They both feel like equally wrong choices.
2/5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
✔ The strong friendship between Tara, Vega, and Obi was a joy to read about (though I do wish there was more backstory behind how they got that close).
✔ There is something about the way this author writes that is compelling - it kept me reading to the end despite not enjoying the way the plot was structured.
✖ The plot is both very fast and very slow. A lot of things happen in quick succession at times, but as it feels we are getting somewhere big, the momentum entirely stops and tries to return to the baseline level, which is very hard to follow.
✖ The overall timeline is also hard to follow - the large timeskip feels disjointed and I think takes away a lot of potential for worldbuilding and setting up the characters. We don’t spend a lot of time seeing what would have been formative years for Tara at Druinov which almost makes me feel like I’ve somehow skipped a nonexistent book 1, with all of the confusion following not understanding how we got somewhere.
✖ Speaking of worldbuilding, there were some very interesting tidbits thrown in about the school and the greater world but overall, a lot of things felt a bit either undercooked or not fully explained. The world this author is developing seems very cool but a whole book later, I feel like I know next to nothing about it.
✖ Atlas, Jasper, and Tara’s love triangle gave me very weird vibes - I didn’t feel strongly about either love interest by the end. They both feel like equally wrong choices.
2/5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I have had this on my TBR since January 2025 before it was rereleased and I’ve been so excited to read it when it finally was published in May 2025, but I unfortunately had to DNF about little over 30% in. I was really disappointed in the lack of world building and explanations in this book. I love the war college aspect and that we’re in a different planetary world than what we normally see in most of the newer fantasy books, but there was such a lack of development of the world and how things worked that I found myself SO confused. I just wanted more or a deeper explanation for where they are the purpose of it and I felt like I was about to get it when they were teaching the first year and then we barely got anything other than a couple details about a few planets. But nothing about the overall solar system or why it is the way it is and how it’s governed or who’s ultimately in charge. We have royals but where? It sounds like there’s people in charge on every planet but I’m not really sure.
And there’s a bond?. For how often the bond between Tara and Vega was mentioned, it drove me insane that there was never an explanation for WHY they were bonded or how this bond worked other than feeling each other’s emotions.
And then there’s Atlas. I don’t understand this dynamic. At. All. Do we love him? Do we hate him? This relationship felt so underdeveloped and I know it was early on but I have whiplash…I don’t understand if there’s chemistry or not or if this is a love/hate situation or what but it felt so weird.
I wanted to love it and I stuck with it longer than I wanted to in hopes that some of my questions would be answered but when there was a missed opportunity for world building and a totally weird “romantic” interaction with Atlas I couldn’t keep going.
2 stars solely for the fact that I’m hoping I can try reading it again and get into it because I really want to love it.
I have had this on my TBR since January 2025 before it was rereleased and I’ve been so excited to read it when it finally was published in May 2025, but I unfortunately had to DNF about little over 30% in. I was really disappointed in the lack of world building and explanations in this book. I love the war college aspect and that we’re in a different planetary world than what we normally see in most of the newer fantasy books, but there was such a lack of development of the world and how things worked that I found myself SO confused. I just wanted more or a deeper explanation for where they are the purpose of it and I felt like I was about to get it when they were teaching the first year and then we barely got anything other than a couple details about a few planets. But nothing about the overall solar system or why it is the way it is and how it’s governed or who’s ultimately in charge. We have royals but where? It sounds like there’s people in charge on every planet but I’m not really sure.
And there’s a bond?. For how often the bond between Tara and Vega was mentioned, it drove me insane that there was never an explanation for WHY they were bonded or how this bond worked other than feeling each other’s emotions.
And then there’s Atlas. I don’t understand this dynamic. At. All. Do we love him? Do we hate him? This relationship felt so underdeveloped and I know it was early on but I have whiplash…I don’t understand if there’s chemistry or not or if this is a love/hate situation or what but it felt so weird.
I wanted to love it and I stuck with it longer than I wanted to in hopes that some of my questions would be answered but when there was a missed opportunity for world building and a totally weird “romantic” interaction with Atlas I couldn’t keep going.
2 stars solely for the fact that I’m hoping I can try reading it again and get into it because I really want to love it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2024
I loved everything about this. The worldbuilding and magic is intriguing, the characters are funny and chaotic, and everyone is hiding something so it keeps you on your toes.
There's drama, action, mystery, and lots of conflicted romance. I absolutely love the concepts of soul bonds with allies, lovers and enemies too.
I was hooked start to finish, and desperately need more of this amazing series!
There's drama, action, mystery, and lots of conflicted romance. I absolutely love the concepts of soul bonds with allies, lovers and enemies too.
I was hooked start to finish, and desperately need more of this amazing series!
January 13, 2025
If it wasn't for children needing my attention, I would have devoured this book in a single day. The last line of the book: perfection.
May 16, 2025
This author has truly captured a military sci-fi with enemies to lovers. I adored every page I read! I was given an ARC copy and have been on the edge of my seat to support this author and this book. Can’t wait to see where this goes!! Love this debut book and can’t wait till book 2!
July 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️ | I admire the creativity, heart, and effort behind it. With more development, I believe this author’s work could grow into something really special, and I’m cheering her on.
Review of Stargazer's Salvation by A.R. Schilling
I want to start by commending the author for her bravery in writing, putting pen to paper, publishing, and doing well. Congratulations. This is a success, and I will absolutely be continuing to watch as you publish and grow. I went into this book genuinely hopeful. I’ve been following your journey for some time, and Stargazer’s Salvation was high on my indie release radar. Though I feel that this book reads like a strong second draft, full of heart and promise, it still needs more time to fully land.
There are many intriguing ideas in this story, but I found that a few key areas could have used more development to help the book reach its full potential. The worldbuilding, for example, shows glimmers of something rich and exciting. Fae, demons, shapeshifters, and bonded relationships are all introduced, but I didn’t feel the depth or structure needed to be fully immersed in the world. The academy is described as dangerous and intense, but that atmosphere doesn’t carry through consistently. There are some lovely moments, like the introduction of the Aurora plant in a classroom setting, but those details feel more like isolated fragments than parts of a connected world. The plant is mentioned again later, as if it's meant to tie things together, but without more context, the impact is limited. It feels like the author was reaching for something thoughtful and immersive through school-based worldbuilding, and that has real potential, but it needs more cohesion to fully come together.
One of the areas I was most excited about, and where I think there is enormous potential, is the character relationships. Tara and Vega are introduced as star bonded best friends, which is a concept I truly love. That kind of emotional connection can be such a powerful anchor for a story. However, we aren’t given the chance to see how their bond developed. We’re told they used to dislike each other and are now deeply connected, but without witnessing that growth, the relationship feels a bit static. I would have loved to watch their friendship evolve over time, especially since it seems so central to the narrative. The romance, too, feels like it is heading somewhere interesting, but needed more space and texture. There’s a slow introduction to the love interest, and the story hints at a potential triangle with Atlas and Ramses, but it never quite develops into something emotionally layered. It felt like the framework was there, but the deeper moments still needed to unfold.
Interestingly, the moments that felt the most fully realized were small details like Tara’s coffee order and the red rolls. These were charming and memorable, and I appreciated the inclusion of the recipe at the end. They showed the kind of care and consistency that can make a world feel real. I just wished that same level of detail had extended to the emotional arcs and worldbuilding, which would have made the story feel more grounded and impactful overall.
There were also plot points that moved quickly or felt loosely connected, which made the pacing a bit uneven. For example, when Tara steps in to fight in Atlas’s place, it seems like a major turning point, but the consequences of that action are never explored. Atlas fades out of the narrative, and then Tara is suddenly sleeping in a tree, which was a jarring transition. After that, the events accelerate. The characters are late to a village that isn’t clearly established, then go to a camp to dance, then suddenly need to find dresses. These moments might have felt more meaningful with a stronger foundation beneath them. Without it, it was harder to stay emotionally engaged or understand the characters’ motivations. The sensory descriptions during Tara’s awakening scene were vivid, but without more context for the magic system, I struggled to understand what it represented. I could feel the emotional direction the author was aiming for, but it remained just out of reach.
The timeline also made it difficult to stay oriented. Chapter headings included dates, which helped a little, but the frequent shifts meant I often had to stop and figure out where we were in the story. I appreciated the use of flashbacks as a structural device to add context and backstory. It was a smart choice, and could have added real emotional depth. However, there weren’t enough of them to fully flesh out the character arcs. If we had seen more of the early interactions between Tara and Vega or more buildup with Atlas, those relationships could have landed more strongly. As it is, it sometimes felt like we had skipped an entire first book and were being asked to connect to characters we hadn’t spent enough time with.
That seems to be the theme of my experience with this book. I could see what the author was working toward. The story contains strong ideas, creative intentions, and emotional threads that are just beginning to form, but they didn’t quite come together in a way that felt complete. Everything is in motion, but it still needs more time, development, and connection between the pieces.
That said, there is so much to celebrate. The blend of sci-fi and fantasy, the magical academy setting, and the idea of emotional bonds driving power and purpose are all compelling elements. The author’s writing voice is engaging and imaginative, and I found myself curious about how the world might expand in future books.
This story has already found an audience, and that in itself is something to be proud of. With more time spent deepening relationships, refining pacing, and anchoring the world more fully, I believe the next book could be something truly special. Publishing a debut novel is a remarkable accomplishment, especially independently. I’m genuinely excited to see how the author’s voice continues to grow. Congratulations again on this important milestone, and thank you for sharing your work with readers.
Review of Stargazer's Salvation by A.R. Schilling
I want to start by commending the author for her bravery in writing, putting pen to paper, publishing, and doing well. Congratulations. This is a success, and I will absolutely be continuing to watch as you publish and grow. I went into this book genuinely hopeful. I’ve been following your journey for some time, and Stargazer’s Salvation was high on my indie release radar. Though I feel that this book reads like a strong second draft, full of heart and promise, it still needs more time to fully land.
There are many intriguing ideas in this story, but I found that a few key areas could have used more development to help the book reach its full potential. The worldbuilding, for example, shows glimmers of something rich and exciting. Fae, demons, shapeshifters, and bonded relationships are all introduced, but I didn’t feel the depth or structure needed to be fully immersed in the world. The academy is described as dangerous and intense, but that atmosphere doesn’t carry through consistently. There are some lovely moments, like the introduction of the Aurora plant in a classroom setting, but those details feel more like isolated fragments than parts of a connected world. The plant is mentioned again later, as if it's meant to tie things together, but without more context, the impact is limited. It feels like the author was reaching for something thoughtful and immersive through school-based worldbuilding, and that has real potential, but it needs more cohesion to fully come together.
One of the areas I was most excited about, and where I think there is enormous potential, is the character relationships. Tara and Vega are introduced as star bonded best friends, which is a concept I truly love. That kind of emotional connection can be such a powerful anchor for a story. However, we aren’t given the chance to see how their bond developed. We’re told they used to dislike each other and are now deeply connected, but without witnessing that growth, the relationship feels a bit static. I would have loved to watch their friendship evolve over time, especially since it seems so central to the narrative. The romance, too, feels like it is heading somewhere interesting, but needed more space and texture. There’s a slow introduction to the love interest, and the story hints at a potential triangle with Atlas and Ramses, but it never quite develops into something emotionally layered. It felt like the framework was there, but the deeper moments still needed to unfold.
Interestingly, the moments that felt the most fully realized were small details like Tara’s coffee order and the red rolls. These were charming and memorable, and I appreciated the inclusion of the recipe at the end. They showed the kind of care and consistency that can make a world feel real. I just wished that same level of detail had extended to the emotional arcs and worldbuilding, which would have made the story feel more grounded and impactful overall.
There were also plot points that moved quickly or felt loosely connected, which made the pacing a bit uneven. For example, when Tara steps in to fight in Atlas’s place, it seems like a major turning point, but the consequences of that action are never explored. Atlas fades out of the narrative, and then Tara is suddenly sleeping in a tree, which was a jarring transition. After that, the events accelerate. The characters are late to a village that isn’t clearly established, then go to a camp to dance, then suddenly need to find dresses. These moments might have felt more meaningful with a stronger foundation beneath them. Without it, it was harder to stay emotionally engaged or understand the characters’ motivations. The sensory descriptions during Tara’s awakening scene were vivid, but without more context for the magic system, I struggled to understand what it represented. I could feel the emotional direction the author was aiming for, but it remained just out of reach.
The timeline also made it difficult to stay oriented. Chapter headings included dates, which helped a little, but the frequent shifts meant I often had to stop and figure out where we were in the story. I appreciated the use of flashbacks as a structural device to add context and backstory. It was a smart choice, and could have added real emotional depth. However, there weren’t enough of them to fully flesh out the character arcs. If we had seen more of the early interactions between Tara and Vega or more buildup with Atlas, those relationships could have landed more strongly. As it is, it sometimes felt like we had skipped an entire first book and were being asked to connect to characters we hadn’t spent enough time with.
That seems to be the theme of my experience with this book. I could see what the author was working toward. The story contains strong ideas, creative intentions, and emotional threads that are just beginning to form, but they didn’t quite come together in a way that felt complete. Everything is in motion, but it still needs more time, development, and connection between the pieces.
That said, there is so much to celebrate. The blend of sci-fi and fantasy, the magical academy setting, and the idea of emotional bonds driving power and purpose are all compelling elements. The author’s writing voice is engaging and imaginative, and I found myself curious about how the world might expand in future books.
This story has already found an audience, and that in itself is something to be proud of. With more time spent deepening relationships, refining pacing, and anchoring the world more fully, I believe the next book could be something truly special. Publishing a debut novel is a remarkable accomplishment, especially independently. I’m genuinely excited to see how the author’s voice continues to grow. Congratulations again on this important milestone, and thank you for sharing your work with readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2025
Stargazer’s Salvation by A.R. Schilling: A Fiery, Soul-Rattling Debut That Will Wreck You in the Best Way
From the very first line of Stargazer’s Salvation, I knew I was in trouble—the kind of trouble that turns you into a sleep-deprived, emotionally ruined, sobbing-on-the-couch sort of reader. And let me just say: I welcomed it. I’ve been following A.R. Schilling on socials for a while now, drawn to her unapologetically raw, refreshingly honest presence. So when she started teasing snippets of this book, my Kindle practically sparked from how fast I one-clicked it on release day through Kindle Unlimited.
What I was not prepared for—what you can’t possibly be prepared for—is the sheer magnitude of emotion, intensity, and beautifully constructed chaos this story delivers. From the prologue alone, you’re hurled headfirst into a world that is equal parts heartbreak and hope. It’s brutal. It’s brilliant. And it doesn’t let go.
Set in the expansive Andromedas system, ruled by the merciless Sol throne, this sci-fi fantasy stuns with high stakes, political tension, and a touch of ancient mysticism. Tara Ravi—our fierce, broken, beautifully complex heroine—was born without a Sol, the very thing she needed to inherit the throne. That single twist of fate is enough to damn her in a system that demands power above all else. But instead of crumbling, she claws her way toward redemption, enrolling in one of the War Academy’s five sectors in a desperate bid to prove she’s more than the sum of her birthright.
And oh, the trials. The alliances forged in blood. The betrayals. The slow-burn romance that feels like a fever dream. Tara’s journey is one of grit, sacrifice, and gut-wrenching revelations. Every chapter peels back another layer of this vast, haunted world—and of Tara herself. She is not here to be palatable. She is here to burn.
Schilling’s prose is addictive, cinematic, and laced with emotional grenades. There’s a rhythm to her writing that keeps your heart pacing, even in the quiet moments. And the stakes? They’re not just high—they’re galactic. As an ancient force awakens, whispering long-buried truths and rewriting everything Tara thought she knew about herself, the story surges toward a crescendo that left me breathless.
This isn’t just a book—it’s a reckoning. It’s for the reader who aches for something more than a surface-level fantasy. It’s for the stargazers, the broken royals, the fierce girls with nothing left to lose. Tara’s story is a war cry in the dark.
A.R. Schilling didn’t just write a debut. She carved a galaxy out of stardust and flame—and I will be clinging to its orbit until the sequel breaks me all over again.
From the very first line of Stargazer’s Salvation, I knew I was in trouble—the kind of trouble that turns you into a sleep-deprived, emotionally ruined, sobbing-on-the-couch sort of reader. And let me just say: I welcomed it. I’ve been following A.R. Schilling on socials for a while now, drawn to her unapologetically raw, refreshingly honest presence. So when she started teasing snippets of this book, my Kindle practically sparked from how fast I one-clicked it on release day through Kindle Unlimited.
What I was not prepared for—what you can’t possibly be prepared for—is the sheer magnitude of emotion, intensity, and beautifully constructed chaos this story delivers. From the prologue alone, you’re hurled headfirst into a world that is equal parts heartbreak and hope. It’s brutal. It’s brilliant. And it doesn’t let go.
Set in the expansive Andromedas system, ruled by the merciless Sol throne, this sci-fi fantasy stuns with high stakes, political tension, and a touch of ancient mysticism. Tara Ravi—our fierce, broken, beautifully complex heroine—was born without a Sol, the very thing she needed to inherit the throne. That single twist of fate is enough to damn her in a system that demands power above all else. But instead of crumbling, she claws her way toward redemption, enrolling in one of the War Academy’s five sectors in a desperate bid to prove she’s more than the sum of her birthright.
And oh, the trials. The alliances forged in blood. The betrayals. The slow-burn romance that feels like a fever dream. Tara’s journey is one of grit, sacrifice, and gut-wrenching revelations. Every chapter peels back another layer of this vast, haunted world—and of Tara herself. She is not here to be palatable. She is here to burn.
Schilling’s prose is addictive, cinematic, and laced with emotional grenades. There’s a rhythm to her writing that keeps your heart pacing, even in the quiet moments. And the stakes? They’re not just high—they’re galactic. As an ancient force awakens, whispering long-buried truths and rewriting everything Tara thought she knew about herself, the story surges toward a crescendo that left me breathless.
This isn’t just a book—it’s a reckoning. It’s for the reader who aches for something more than a surface-level fantasy. It’s for the stargazers, the broken royals, the fierce girls with nothing left to lose. Tara’s story is a war cry in the dark.
A.R. Schilling didn’t just write a debut. She carved a galaxy out of stardust and flame—and I will be clinging to its orbit until the sequel breaks me all over again.
January 6, 2025
**Review for *Stargazers Salvation***
I really enjoyed *Stargazers Salvation* and believe it has great potential! The characters are well-written and engaging, and I found myself invested in their journeys. However, I struggled with the pacing and timeline. Over half the book is set in August, during which it’s snowing, then we jump back in time before returning to the present in December. This made the progression feel disjointed and difficult to follow.
Additionally, I wish we could have experienced Tara’s first three years at Druinov War Academy. Watching her become best friends with Vega and navigating those early challenges would have added depth to her character and their bond. While some backstory is provided, I would have preferred to be immersed in those formative years.
The stakes at Druinov Academy also felt lower than advertised. It’s described as a do-or-die environment, but I wanted to see more life-threatening situations that forced the protagonist and her friends to fight for survival. Those scenes would have added tension and made the setting feel more dangerous.
Lastly, while I’m all for a good cliffhanger, the book left me feeling unsatisfied overall. Every time it seemed like we were finally getting to a pivotal moment, it would end abruptly. The action starts to pick up near the end, but then the story closes too quickly, leaving much unresolved.
I also found the POV switches jarring. They lacked rhythm, making it harder to stay grounded in the story. And honestly, I didn’t think Atlas’s POV added much (I strongly dislike him!).
Overall, *Stargazers Salvation* is a good book with lots of promise, but it could benefit from more consistent pacing, stronger world-building, and higher stakes. With a bit more polish, it could be truly great!
November 14, 2024
Y'ALL LET ME TELL YOU! THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!!! If you like the dystopian/sci-fi/fantasy books such as Divergent or Fourth Wing, you NEED to read this!
A.R. Schilling does an absolutely phenomenal job with the world building, bringing the different bonds, elements and sectors to life. It is pretty rare that I love all the characters in a book, but I truly enjoyed every single one (except the Queen lol) in this one! The main female character, Tara, has such a complex and relatable personality that made it easy to connect with. As the book progresses, I appreciated her growth and development as secrets are exposed. Her best friends, Vega and Obi are literally the friends every person dreams of having and I love their found family type of relationship the 3 have. I really hope we get more insight on their own familial histories in the future! The overall plot is everything I want in a book to be honest, I was instantly hooked from just the prologue! There are so many plot twists and jaw dropping moments that just made me binge this all night. The writing style was fantastic, I honestly don't think I have ever highlighted more lines in a book than I did with this one. There are so many moments in this book where the wording just heightened the experience for me.
One thing to note, definitely pay attention to the dates at the beginning of the chapters, because there are moments where we get a glimpse of past memories that shed light on the current time. There is also limited spice in this story, but I honestly really appreciated that it was more sci-fi and fantasy focused than romance based.
Overall, if I could give this 10 stars, I would! I cannot wait for more!
A.R. Schilling does an absolutely phenomenal job with the world building, bringing the different bonds, elements and sectors to life. It is pretty rare that I love all the characters in a book, but I truly enjoyed every single one (except the Queen lol) in this one! The main female character, Tara, has such a complex and relatable personality that made it easy to connect with. As the book progresses, I appreciated her growth and development as secrets are exposed. Her best friends, Vega and Obi are literally the friends every person dreams of having and I love their found family type of relationship the 3 have. I really hope we get more insight on their own familial histories in the future! The overall plot is everything I want in a book to be honest, I was instantly hooked from just the prologue! There are so many plot twists and jaw dropping moments that just made me binge this all night. The writing style was fantastic, I honestly don't think I have ever highlighted more lines in a book than I did with this one. There are so many moments in this book where the wording just heightened the experience for me.
One thing to note, definitely pay attention to the dates at the beginning of the chapters, because there are moments where we get a glimpse of past memories that shed light on the current time. There is also limited spice in this story, but I honestly really appreciated that it was more sci-fi and fantasy focused than romance based.
Overall, if I could give this 10 stars, I would! I cannot wait for more!
May 4, 2025
Well DAMN. This book took me by surprise, in the BEST possible way. This is the author’s debut, and she absolutely knocked it outta the park. I lLOVES me some sci-fi fantasy, so when I saw the blurb for this book, I was all over it. And it delivered on everything I’m ever looking for from this genre. If you loved the academy setting of Fourth Wing, the angsty dystopian vibes of Divergent, and the found family & camaraderie in Top Gun, you will EAT THIS UP.
Straight out the gate, the writing completely sucked me in. The author has such polished, flowing prose, that weave a beautifully layered, addictive tale. There are a lot of nuances and complexities regarding the world building, but she found a way to work these details into the story organically, without making the reader feel overwhelmed. It was beautifully done, and allowed for the plot and characters to take center stage.
Tara, our complex and relatable princess FMC, is trying to forge her own path, while navigating the perils of life at a prestigious military academy. The friendships that develop quickly morph into found family, in the most beautiful way- honestly, the side characters, and the relationships that Tara forms with them, are the heart and soul of this book. There is romance in the story, but for this installment, it’s all about that slow burn, and some sweet sweet tension, as Tara tries to figure out who she can trust, and starts to realize that not everything is as it seems.
You really just need to take a chance on this book, and dive right in. It was gripping, heartfelt, beautifully written, and filled with magic, angst, humor, political intrigue, action… seriously everything I could ask for. DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS ONE!
Straight out the gate, the writing completely sucked me in. The author has such polished, flowing prose, that weave a beautifully layered, addictive tale. There are a lot of nuances and complexities regarding the world building, but she found a way to work these details into the story organically, without making the reader feel overwhelmed. It was beautifully done, and allowed for the plot and characters to take center stage.
Tara, our complex and relatable princess FMC, is trying to forge her own path, while navigating the perils of life at a prestigious military academy. The friendships that develop quickly morph into found family, in the most beautiful way- honestly, the side characters, and the relationships that Tara forms with them, are the heart and soul of this book. There is romance in the story, but for this installment, it’s all about that slow burn, and some sweet sweet tension, as Tara tries to figure out who she can trust, and starts to realize that not everything is as it seems.
You really just need to take a chance on this book, and dive right in. It was gripping, heartfelt, beautifully written, and filled with magic, angst, humor, political intrigue, action… seriously everything I could ask for. DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS ONE!
August 25, 2025
Think Fourth Wing and Divergent with a dash of Top Gun set against a galaxy backdrop 🌌 We’ve got multiple species (including fae, demons, shifters, magic wielders and more), a hidden rebellion, unlocked powers, found family, a disinherited heir, military academy life, slow-burn romance, multiple POVs, and of course a dark, morally gray love interest 🖤
A.R. Schilling weaves dystopian and fantasy elements into a thrilling debut. Honestly, I think she knocked it out of the park. There’s a LOT happening here, and since this is clearly the start of a long series, some things are left open-ended. I expect we’ll see even more worldbuilding and character growth in future books. The timeline did trip me up in places. It took me a page or two to get my bearings, but overall it didn’t pull me out too much.
The FMC, Tara, is struggling to find herself after a lifetime of being discarded 💔 At the Druinov War Academy, she starts to discover who she is and who her friends might be. I love a good bestie, and Vega, her star-bonded friend, is absolute top-tier. She’s a true “touch her and die” best friend, and I am here for it. I’m so intrigued by all the bonds that will develop as the series goes on, and I’m already dying for the next book just to find out who ends up connected to who 👀
There are a couple of potential love interests, and I think I know which direction it’s heading—but I don’t trust anything until the final book is out 😅 For now, Jasper is my choice (dark, broody, tortured characters are always my weakness).
At the end of the day, I’m here for the vibes, and I really enjoyed this book. Thank you NetGalley for an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review 🙏
…………………………………………………………………
Favorite Quotes:
“They’re constantly underestimated, but there’s a lot to be said about those who can thrive in the darkness. Sometimes, they’re the most powerful of us all.”
“I may not have any powers, but I am not powerless.”
“Because there isn’t a single doubt in my mind now. You were created to ruin me.”
A.R. Schilling weaves dystopian and fantasy elements into a thrilling debut. Honestly, I think she knocked it out of the park. There’s a LOT happening here, and since this is clearly the start of a long series, some things are left open-ended. I expect we’ll see even more worldbuilding and character growth in future books. The timeline did trip me up in places. It took me a page or two to get my bearings, but overall it didn’t pull me out too much.
The FMC, Tara, is struggling to find herself after a lifetime of being discarded 💔 At the Druinov War Academy, she starts to discover who she is and who her friends might be. I love a good bestie, and Vega, her star-bonded friend, is absolute top-tier. She’s a true “touch her and die” best friend, and I am here for it. I’m so intrigued by all the bonds that will develop as the series goes on, and I’m already dying for the next book just to find out who ends up connected to who 👀
There are a couple of potential love interests, and I think I know which direction it’s heading—but I don’t trust anything until the final book is out 😅 For now, Jasper is my choice (dark, broody, tortured characters are always my weakness).
At the end of the day, I’m here for the vibes, and I really enjoyed this book. Thank you NetGalley for an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review 🙏
…………………………………………………………………
Favorite Quotes:
“They’re constantly underestimated, but there’s a lot to be said about those who can thrive in the darkness. Sometimes, they’re the most powerful of us all.”
“I may not have any powers, but I am not powerless.”
“Because there isn’t a single doubt in my mind now. You were created to ruin me.”
January 17, 2025
I got this ARC a while ago and life got in the way but I finally managed to read it and I’m so glad I did!!
Let’s start by saying that I was intrigued from the start and the book keeps a great pace, always moving forward and not stalling. The universe is very unique with different magic systems that are very well explained throughout the book. Fantasy books sometimes struggle with the world building but this one did a great job.
The characters are really likeable (I need more of Vega and Obi!) and the main characters was very well done.
The story is very unique and it always felt original even when it has some concepts similar to other books. (Maybe is just me because I read a ton!)
This is a debute novel and it is incredible, really looking forward to the 2nd book, however I did struggle with a few things:
- The time stamps at the start of the chapters really confused me to the point that I don’t even know what happened when, so I just stopped paying attention
- Tara (our MFC) is supposed to have a romantic interest but I didn’t feel the connection between her and the romantic interest, it doesn’t feel strong enough and that might be intentional.
- There is a political intrigue and is not very clear what the sides are or what are the stakes, even at the end is not clear who is on who’s side. Again this could also be intentional but I feel it should be more clear to get the reader fully invested.
Overall I had a great time reading this story and I will be looking forward to book 2, hopefully we’ll have some answers to a few open questions left at the end!!!
Let’s start by saying that I was intrigued from the start and the book keeps a great pace, always moving forward and not stalling. The universe is very unique with different magic systems that are very well explained throughout the book. Fantasy books sometimes struggle with the world building but this one did a great job.
The characters are really likeable (I need more of Vega and Obi!) and the main characters was very well done.
The story is very unique and it always felt original even when it has some concepts similar to other books. (Maybe is just me because I read a ton!)
This is a debute novel and it is incredible, really looking forward to the 2nd book, however I did struggle with a few things:
- The time stamps at the start of the chapters really confused me to the point that I don’t even know what happened when, so I just stopped paying attention
- Tara (our MFC) is supposed to have a romantic interest but I didn’t feel the connection between her and the romantic interest, it doesn’t feel strong enough and that might be intentional.
- There is a political intrigue and is not very clear what the sides are or what are the stakes, even at the end is not clear who is on who’s side. Again this could also be intentional but I feel it should be more clear to get the reader fully invested.
Overall I had a great time reading this story and I will be looking forward to book 2, hopefully we’ll have some answers to a few open questions left at the end!!!
September 3, 2025
I think I would have absolutely loved this book if it had been written in a more straightforward, linear way instead of shifting between timelines. I wanted to really experience Tara’s time at the academy, seeing how her friendships grew, how her interest in Atlas developed, and what she learned during her training/life at the academy as this would have incorporated more world building and character development.
I do agree with some of the other reviewers that this book felt a little like a second draft, and I think with a bit more polishing it could have been something truly outstanding. Even so, the potential shines through in every chapter. The concept is creative, the characters are compelling, and the author’s imagination is evident on the page. It is clear that A.R. Schilling put a lot of heart into this story, and I really admire the effort and passion that went into it.
For me, the structure of the storytelling and the pacing kept it from being a perfect read, but it was still enjoyable. The author has remarkable skill, and I believe future works will only get stronger as they refine their writing. I am very much looking forward to picking up more of A.R. Schilling’s books, because I can see the talent and promise behind this one. Sometimes a story only needs a little more shaping to truly shine, and I feel like this was one of those cases.
Overall, Stargazer’s Salvation had so much potential, and while it needed a bit more polish, it left me excited to read more from this author. I will definitely be watching for what they write next.
I do agree with some of the other reviewers that this book felt a little like a second draft, and I think with a bit more polishing it could have been something truly outstanding. Even so, the potential shines through in every chapter. The concept is creative, the characters are compelling, and the author’s imagination is evident on the page. It is clear that A.R. Schilling put a lot of heart into this story, and I really admire the effort and passion that went into it.
For me, the structure of the storytelling and the pacing kept it from being a perfect read, but it was still enjoyable. The author has remarkable skill, and I believe future works will only get stronger as they refine their writing. I am very much looking forward to picking up more of A.R. Schilling’s books, because I can see the talent and promise behind this one. Sometimes a story only needs a little more shaping to truly shine, and I feel like this was one of those cases.
Overall, Stargazer’s Salvation had so much potential, and while it needed a bit more polish, it left me excited to read more from this author. I will definitely be watching for what they write next.
November 8, 2024
Extremely grateful to A.R. Schilling for selecting me to be an ARC reader!
Personally, I love Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Dystopian books, so this book was right up my alley. Somehow, A.R. was able to incorporate a little bit of all three genres into one cohesive and enticing story, and I just couldn't put it down!
This story is filled with an enriching amount of mystery and purposefully unclear motives. While we are predominantly in Tara's POV, our FMC, we do get a sprinkle of some other POVs. These glimpses into other characters' minds are used in such an effective way throughout the story and truly add to the complexity of our characters. They also openly challenge what we think we know from Tara.
I absolutely love the world (universe?) and power/fantasy elements A.R. decided to incorporate into this story. It is an interesting combination of the known and the unknown. From what we learned in this book, I am excited to visit more corners of this universe in future installments.
There were some moments toward the end of the book that felt a little rushed, but that could be due to the necessary world building/set up at the beginning of the book (which can, by comparison, feel slower in pace).
Overall, this was an extremely strong debut novel, and I cannot wait to see what happens next! (Especially after that little cliffhanger A.R. left us with toward the end of the book, ifykyk.)
Personally, I love Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Dystopian books, so this book was right up my alley. Somehow, A.R. was able to incorporate a little bit of all three genres into one cohesive and enticing story, and I just couldn't put it down!
This story is filled with an enriching amount of mystery and purposefully unclear motives. While we are predominantly in Tara's POV, our FMC, we do get a sprinkle of some other POVs. These glimpses into other characters' minds are used in such an effective way throughout the story and truly add to the complexity of our characters. They also openly challenge what we think we know from Tara.
I absolutely love the world (universe?) and power/fantasy elements A.R. decided to incorporate into this story. It is an interesting combination of the known and the unknown. From what we learned in this book, I am excited to visit more corners of this universe in future installments.
There were some moments toward the end of the book that felt a little rushed, but that could be due to the necessary world building/set up at the beginning of the book (which can, by comparison, feel slower in pace).
Overall, this was an extremely strong debut novel, and I cannot wait to see what happens next! (Especially after that little cliffhanger A.R. left us with toward the end of the book, ifykyk.)
November 19, 2024
I normally maintain tempered expectations for debut novelists. A.R. Schilling blew right past those expectations and stands among the best I’ve read for her skill with snappy dialogue and characters that feel consistent with rich personalities.
Schilling has a particular ability to write inner-monologues that feel like you’re having a conversation with the character. I could read Tara’s thoughts all day long! Schilling also writes a very natural pace for story development. Things move along quickly without feeling rushed, and she takes her time where you want her to take her time.
I found myself rooting for various characters only to despise them on the next page, then feel guilty for having despised them another 2 pages later. Any writer that can pull on my emotions that effectively that quickly earns genuinely high praise.
I also appreciated that my “favorite character” changed 4 or 5 times. That’s not because of inconsistency, but instead, it comes from the fact that each time a character is the focus of a scene, I immediately felt connected to them, and instantly felt empathy for them. I want to know more about every character! Not a single one bores me. And as the story went forward, that feeling grew and grew.
This is the beginning of a wonderful universe that will span many books, not because that is Schilling’s plan, but because the characters and the intrigue demands it!
Schilling has a particular ability to write inner-monologues that feel like you’re having a conversation with the character. I could read Tara’s thoughts all day long! Schilling also writes a very natural pace for story development. Things move along quickly without feeling rushed, and she takes her time where you want her to take her time.
I found myself rooting for various characters only to despise them on the next page, then feel guilty for having despised them another 2 pages later. Any writer that can pull on my emotions that effectively that quickly earns genuinely high praise.
I also appreciated that my “favorite character” changed 4 or 5 times. That’s not because of inconsistency, but instead, it comes from the fact that each time a character is the focus of a scene, I immediately felt connected to them, and instantly felt empathy for them. I want to know more about every character! Not a single one bores me. And as the story went forward, that feeling grew and grew.
This is the beginning of a wonderful universe that will span many books, not because that is Schilling’s plan, but because the characters and the intrigue demands it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
I had to sit with our thoughts in silence with this one…
“May the stars shine on your purpose”✨
Be sure to block your schedule for an entire day and get comfortable with drinks and snacks at hand because you won’t want to put this book down until you’re finished. A.R. Schilling keeps you so engaged from beginning to end that you’ll forget to breathe.
She has a way with words that ignites more than just your mind while reading she brings your other senses alive as well. Her world building throws you right into Druinov and there’s no turning back. I’m hooked. This has become my favorite series and we’re only in book one. It will become my new comfort read. The place I want to escape to when I want to leave this world for a few hours. This is Divergent meets the Empyrean series and it is going to be just as large of a following if not larger than both of them. The way Tara and Vega make you feel like you’re part of their friendship from that first chapter sends you spiraling into a world of deception, adventure, courage and strength. Not to mention the PLOT TWISTS. A.R. when you wrote that chapter about Ajax. It wrecked me. This book will give you a book hangover that will leave you questioning your life, your purpose, and your passions. It will leave you wanting more. I’m so grateful to have been an ARC reader for this series and am at the edge of my seat for the next book and the author couldn’t be a more deserving, kind, bad ass person. ✨
“May the stars shine on your purpose”✨
Be sure to block your schedule for an entire day and get comfortable with drinks and snacks at hand because you won’t want to put this book down until you’re finished. A.R. Schilling keeps you so engaged from beginning to end that you’ll forget to breathe.
She has a way with words that ignites more than just your mind while reading she brings your other senses alive as well. Her world building throws you right into Druinov and there’s no turning back. I’m hooked. This has become my favorite series and we’re only in book one. It will become my new comfort read. The place I want to escape to when I want to leave this world for a few hours. This is Divergent meets the Empyrean series and it is going to be just as large of a following if not larger than both of them. The way Tara and Vega make you feel like you’re part of their friendship from that first chapter sends you spiraling into a world of deception, adventure, courage and strength. Not to mention the PLOT TWISTS. A.R. when you wrote that chapter about Ajax. It wrecked me. This book will give you a book hangover that will leave you questioning your life, your purpose, and your passions. It will leave you wanting more. I’m so grateful to have been an ARC reader for this series and am at the edge of my seat for the next book and the author couldn’t be a more deserving, kind, bad ass person. ✨
July 30, 2025
Thank you, A.R. Schilling and NetGalley, for the early preview of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Title: Stargazers Salvation
Author: A.R. Schilling
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Format: e-book
Review:
Tara is born a Sol-less princess. Her mother, the Queen, has found no use for her. This story of Tara beginning to find her place in the Andromedas System by graduating in one of the five sectors of the War Academy is gripping and so interesting.
This book has all of the pieces to draw you in. I really loved the way the sectors are explained with the political pieces to be considered. Information is given in sensical conversations.
I love love love the friendship between Tara and Vega. And give me that big cinnamon roll Obi before I freaking lose my mind! That man!
I did find myself hoping that pieces of this story weren’t so jumpy.
Spoiler-y info:
I wanted Tara to be able to have a LITTLE bit longer reunion with her dad. I felt it had so much potential for a real heart break moment but it felt rushed.
We jump through the years in the War Academy, and that’s fine in theory… but I feel like I wasn’t prepared for the timeline change without much more story or relationship building? I wanted to get more of the gritty academy experience.
All in all, I really feel this story has tons of potential and I’m hoping we can find out why the Queen is a raging b*tch.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Title: Stargazers Salvation
Author: A.R. Schilling
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Format: e-book
Review:
Tara is born a Sol-less princess. Her mother, the Queen, has found no use for her. This story of Tara beginning to find her place in the Andromedas System by graduating in one of the five sectors of the War Academy is gripping and so interesting.
This book has all of the pieces to draw you in. I really loved the way the sectors are explained with the political pieces to be considered. Information is given in sensical conversations.
I love love love the friendship between Tara and Vega. And give me that big cinnamon roll Obi before I freaking lose my mind! That man!
I did find myself hoping that pieces of this story weren’t so jumpy.
Spoiler-y info:
I wanted Tara to be able to have a LITTLE bit longer reunion with her dad. I felt it had so much potential for a real heart break moment but it felt rushed.
We jump through the years in the War Academy, and that’s fine in theory… but I feel like I wasn’t prepared for the timeline change without much more story or relationship building? I wanted to get more of the gritty academy experience.
All in all, I really feel this story has tons of potential and I’m hoping we can find out why the Queen is a raging b*tch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2025
⭐3.5
Tropes:
🌟 found family
🌟 war academy
🌟 love triangle
I did enjoy this debut novel by A.R. Schilling. We follow Tara as she navigates being stripped of her royal titles and joining a war college to escape her mother after her father, the king, goes missing. During her time at the academy, she is presented with not one, but two love interests - and she doesn’t trust either one of them. With the help of her magically bonded best friend, Vega, and Oberon, the male that secretly loves Vega, Tara is able to better navigate the challenges she faces as she slowly realizes her own potential.
The plot kept me motivated to read it completely through, but I will admit that the writing did make it a little difficult to keep up with the progression of the storyline at times. While there were several clever lines placed throughout the book that had me quickly highlighting quotes, I found it challenging at times to follow where the characters were or who they were talking to. There were instances that I felt there were things missing between scenes and would have to go back several pages to see if I overlooked anything. The world building could use some work, but since I do read a lot of fantasy, I was able to imagine or deduce some stuff as I read. Overall I enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next book in the series!
Thank you @netgalley and Aspin for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Tropes:
🌟 found family
🌟 war academy
🌟 love triangle
I did enjoy this debut novel by A.R. Schilling. We follow Tara as she navigates being stripped of her royal titles and joining a war college to escape her mother after her father, the king, goes missing. During her time at the academy, she is presented with not one, but two love interests - and she doesn’t trust either one of them. With the help of her magically bonded best friend, Vega, and Oberon, the male that secretly loves Vega, Tara is able to better navigate the challenges she faces as she slowly realizes her own potential.
The plot kept me motivated to read it completely through, but I will admit that the writing did make it a little difficult to keep up with the progression of the storyline at times. While there were several clever lines placed throughout the book that had me quickly highlighting quotes, I found it challenging at times to follow where the characters were or who they were talking to. There were instances that I felt there were things missing between scenes and would have to go back several pages to see if I overlooked anything. The world building could use some work, but since I do read a lot of fantasy, I was able to imagine or deduce some stuff as I read. Overall I enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next book in the series!
Thank you @netgalley and Aspin for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
November 21, 2024
Thank you, Aspin, for the opportunity to read this ARC. What an amazing debut!! My jaw was on the floor, and I was going through so many emotions while reading this book. Bravo 👏🏼
✨💜 Stargazer’s Salvation ARC review 💜✨
Let me start off by saying I couldn’t put this book down (but I had to because responsibilities 🤪). It took me 2 days to read this and I’m mind blown that this is a debut book. If you like Zodiac Academy, Divergent, & Fourth Wing, you’ll enjoy Stargazer’s Salvation!
Aspin gives us a creative world that’s familiar yet unfamiliar, and it was exciting to learn about the districts and the different kingdoms. I also really enjoyed her take on the magic system in this book and I’m excited to learn more about that in the future books.
The ensemble of characters is lovely. I want to be friends with Tara (main character), Vega, and Oberon! The way they challenge and support each other and help with each other’s character growth was beautifully written. Then you have the leading -men- of the story, Atlas & Jasper, who are shrouded in mystery and they keep Tara busy trying to decipher her feelings about them throughout the book.
I would consider this a low spice dystopian romantasy but there definitely was a lot of slow burn tensions building and I 🤞🏼hope🤞🏼 the series will build on that and get spicier 🔥
✨💜 Stargazer’s Salvation ARC review 💜✨
Let me start off by saying I couldn’t put this book down (but I had to because responsibilities 🤪). It took me 2 days to read this and I’m mind blown that this is a debut book. If you like Zodiac Academy, Divergent, & Fourth Wing, you’ll enjoy Stargazer’s Salvation!
Aspin gives us a creative world that’s familiar yet unfamiliar, and it was exciting to learn about the districts and the different kingdoms. I also really enjoyed her take on the magic system in this book and I’m excited to learn more about that in the future books.
The ensemble of characters is lovely. I want to be friends with Tara (main character), Vega, and Oberon! The way they challenge and support each other and help with each other’s character growth was beautifully written. Then you have the leading -men- of the story, Atlas & Jasper, who are shrouded in mystery and they keep Tara busy trying to decipher her feelings about them throughout the book.
I would consider this a low spice dystopian romantasy but there definitely was a lot of slow burn tensions building and I 🤞🏼hope🤞🏼 the series will build on that and get spicier 🔥
December 16, 2024
✨📚 Book Review: Stargazer’s Salvation by A.R. Schilling 📚✨
Y’all, this book grabbed me by the feels and didn’t let go! 🎢 From page one, I was rooting for our “Heiress to Nothing” (👸💔) as she kicked butt and took names in a world that seems determined to crush her. 💪🌌
Imagine a dystopian war academy where everyone’s either plotting your downfall 🕵️♀️🔪 or accidentally igniting slow-burn, enemy-to-lover tension 🔥💞. Yeah, it’s that kind of drama, and I am living for it.
The trials? DEADLY. 🗡️🔥 The political intrigue? CHEF’S KISS. 🍷🍷 Secrets around every corner? Absolutely. 🕶️🤐 And let’s not forget the romance — angsty, swoony, and filled with just enough “I hate you (but not really)” vibes to make your heart do the cha-cha. 💃❤️🔥
Oh, and the worldbuilding? PERFECTION. 🌍✨ I could practically feel the oppressive kingdom breathing down my neck. 😬👑 But here’s the kicker: the plot twists! I legit gasped so many times, I probably startled my neighbors. 🫢🏘️
TL;DR: Stargazer’s Salvation is a must-read if you love:
Strong heroines proving their worth 👩🎤👊
Death-defying trials 🏹⚔️
Enough political backstabbing to fill a reality TV show 🍿🫖
A swoon-worthy (and maddeningly mysterious) love interest 😍😏
So grab this book, buckle up, and prepare for ALL THE FEELS. 🎇📖🌠 A.R. Schilling delivers a dystopian fantasy that’s equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming. You’re welcome. 😉✨
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 (and I’d give it more if I could!) 🌟
Y’all, this book grabbed me by the feels and didn’t let go! 🎢 From page one, I was rooting for our “Heiress to Nothing” (👸💔) as she kicked butt and took names in a world that seems determined to crush her. 💪🌌
Imagine a dystopian war academy where everyone’s either plotting your downfall 🕵️♀️🔪 or accidentally igniting slow-burn, enemy-to-lover tension 🔥💞. Yeah, it’s that kind of drama, and I am living for it.
The trials? DEADLY. 🗡️🔥 The political intrigue? CHEF’S KISS. 🍷🍷 Secrets around every corner? Absolutely. 🕶️🤐 And let’s not forget the romance — angsty, swoony, and filled with just enough “I hate you (but not really)” vibes to make your heart do the cha-cha. 💃❤️🔥
Oh, and the worldbuilding? PERFECTION. 🌍✨ I could practically feel the oppressive kingdom breathing down my neck. 😬👑 But here’s the kicker: the plot twists! I legit gasped so many times, I probably startled my neighbors. 🫢🏘️
TL;DR: Stargazer’s Salvation is a must-read if you love:
Strong heroines proving their worth 👩🎤👊
Death-defying trials 🏹⚔️
Enough political backstabbing to fill a reality TV show 🍿🫖
A swoon-worthy (and maddeningly mysterious) love interest 😍😏
So grab this book, buckle up, and prepare for ALL THE FEELS. 🎇📖🌠 A.R. Schilling delivers a dystopian fantasy that’s equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming. You’re welcome. 😉✨
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 (and I’d give it more if I could!) 🌟
May 9, 2025
I follow the author on instagram and have been waiting to read her work for a while. What I liked about the book was the overall plot. It’s a great concept. The writing style was easy to read and intelligent. I enjoyed the main characters very much and their relationship with each other. I do wish we weren’t coming in at year 4 of this story though. It felt like I skipped the first book and went right into the second or even third book. I would love to see exactly how the friendship started and grew between the 3 main characters. I was also confused about exactly who Atlas was and what their relationship had been before this book started. Was he ever good to her? His chapters implied he has/had feelings for her but I just don’t see that in his actions. What brought them together? Who sent him there? Why? I also want to know more about the whole kingdom. What are the struggles and history that has brought them where we are now? Some of the magic systems have been touched on yet beyond healing no one had really used any powers.
The end reveal was definitely a twist and the book ended on a cliffhanger. I’m looking forward to the next book and will read the series as it comes out. I think the author has great ideas and her writing style is fun and engaging. There is so much more to this story and so many places yet to explore!
The end reveal was definitely a twist and the book ended on a cliffhanger. I’m looking forward to the next book and will read the series as it comes out. I think the author has great ideas and her writing style is fun and engaging. There is so much more to this story and so many places yet to explore!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2025
Book Review: Stargazer’s Salvation by A.R. Schilling
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Stargazer’s Salvation by A.R. Schilling is a genre-blending journey that masterfully weaves romance, science fiction, and fantasy into a vivid, emotionally charged story. Schilling’s attention to detail is exceptional—each setting feels fully realized, and the writing is rich and evocative without ever becoming overwhelming.
The characters truly shine, with emotional depth and realistic development that make their struggles and relationships feel authentic. The romance is well-paced, and the worldbuilding seamlessly supports the tension and stakes of the plot.
While the novel delivers a beautifully written and engaging experience, the ending didn’t quite resonate as strongly as the rest of the book. It felt slightly underwhelming after such an immersive buildup—but it doesn’t take away from the strength of the journey.
Recommended for: Readers who love genre mashups with richly built worlds, heartfelt romance, and poetic prose. A great pick for fans of romantic sci-fi/fantasy crossovers.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Stargazer’s Salvation by A.R. Schilling is a genre-blending journey that masterfully weaves romance, science fiction, and fantasy into a vivid, emotionally charged story. Schilling’s attention to detail is exceptional—each setting feels fully realized, and the writing is rich and evocative without ever becoming overwhelming.
The characters truly shine, with emotional depth and realistic development that make their struggles and relationships feel authentic. The romance is well-paced, and the worldbuilding seamlessly supports the tension and stakes of the plot.
While the novel delivers a beautifully written and engaging experience, the ending didn’t quite resonate as strongly as the rest of the book. It felt slightly underwhelming after such an immersive buildup—but it doesn’t take away from the strength of the journey.
Recommended for: Readers who love genre mashups with richly built worlds, heartfelt romance, and poetic prose. A great pick for fans of romantic sci-fi/fantasy crossovers.
April 14, 2025
Thank you to A.R. Schilling for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Stargazers Salvation by A.R. Schilling is a fantasy romance following a deposed princess trying to navigate the dangerous War Academy she's enrolled in and find her place in a kingdom that has rejected her.
This was a fast-paced, super enjoyable read that I couldn't put down! I loved the unique magic system and exploration of soul mates (in all their different forms). While the story was very fresh especially in regard to worldbuilding, I never felt overwhelmed by the information. The author did a wonderful job of introducing information throughout the story instead of info-dumping on us.
I think if you liked popular fantasies like ACOTAR or Fourth Wing, you'll really enjoy it. It's nothing like either of those books story wise (it's very much its own story!) but it's similar with how easy it is to read, the level/amount of fantasy vs. romance, and the endearing relationships flushed out between the characters. Very much recommend :)
Stargazers Salvation by A.R. Schilling is a fantasy romance following a deposed princess trying to navigate the dangerous War Academy she's enrolled in and find her place in a kingdom that has rejected her.
This was a fast-paced, super enjoyable read that I couldn't put down! I loved the unique magic system and exploration of soul mates (in all their different forms). While the story was very fresh especially in regard to worldbuilding, I never felt overwhelmed by the information. The author did a wonderful job of introducing information throughout the story instead of info-dumping on us.
I think if you liked popular fantasies like ACOTAR or Fourth Wing, you'll really enjoy it. It's nothing like either of those books story wise (it's very much its own story!) but it's similar with how easy it is to read, the level/amount of fantasy vs. romance, and the endearing relationships flushed out between the characters. Very much recommend :)
November 1, 2024
So excited I got chosen to be an ARC reader for Stargazers Salvation! Thank you so much A.R Schilling!!
This book is such a fun experience to read! I was pleasantly surprised, as it didn't read as much fantasy as I expected. It's more SciFi/dystopian, which is not a typical genre that I read, but I ate this shit up!
A.R does a great job of bringing characters to life and keeping you intrigued through the whole book, even when there wasn't much happening action wise, it never felt boring to me!
It did take me a bit to understand what was going on because there are some time jumps and having to pay attention to the dates at the chapter headings was important.
I loved the found family aspect of this book, and the suspense of the 'love triangle' and trying to figure out what was happening between the FMC and her love interests and who to trust and who to be wary of!
Overall it was a 4 star read, a wonderful debut and I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next!
This book is such a fun experience to read! I was pleasantly surprised, as it didn't read as much fantasy as I expected. It's more SciFi/dystopian, which is not a typical genre that I read, but I ate this shit up!
A.R does a great job of bringing characters to life and keeping you intrigued through the whole book, even when there wasn't much happening action wise, it never felt boring to me!
It did take me a bit to understand what was going on because there are some time jumps and having to pay attention to the dates at the chapter headings was important.
I loved the found family aspect of this book, and the suspense of the 'love triangle' and trying to figure out what was happening between the FMC and her love interests and who to trust and who to be wary of!
Overall it was a 4 star read, a wonderful debut and I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next!
November 15, 2024
This book has all the things!
✨ Corrupt Kingdoms 🏰
✨ Fated Friendships 💕
✨ Found Family 💛
✨ Morally Grey War Academy 🎓
✨ Rejected Royals 👑
✨ Lovers to Enemies 🤺
✨ Secrets 🤐
From go my attention was hooked. Characters with depth and complex relationships (a Star bonded bestie? Yes please!), creative and wild plot, and the academy itself - !!!!! ✨Not to mention that the world building is phenomenal. From understanding the royal family and all the secrets, backgrounds of various (and important!!!) characters, complexity of Druinov War Academy and the five sectors, and how our FMC makes it to the end (OMG THE END!!!). The set up of where all characters begin to where they end up 😍 prepare to have your mind blown. 💕 Found family is also ALWAYS a good choice, and these characters have truly created the most wonderful family where love is free and unconditional. AR Schilling has created an amazing world that I can’t wait to escape into again and again!
✨ Corrupt Kingdoms 🏰
✨ Fated Friendships 💕
✨ Found Family 💛
✨ Morally Grey War Academy 🎓
✨ Rejected Royals 👑
✨ Lovers to Enemies 🤺
✨ Secrets 🤐
From go my attention was hooked. Characters with depth and complex relationships (a Star bonded bestie? Yes please!), creative and wild plot, and the academy itself - !!!!! ✨Not to mention that the world building is phenomenal. From understanding the royal family and all the secrets, backgrounds of various (and important!!!) characters, complexity of Druinov War Academy and the five sectors, and how our FMC makes it to the end (OMG THE END!!!). The set up of where all characters begin to where they end up 😍 prepare to have your mind blown. 💕 Found family is also ALWAYS a good choice, and these characters have truly created the most wonderful family where love is free and unconditional. AR Schilling has created an amazing world that I can’t wait to escape into again and again!
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