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A Legacy of Stars: The Lost God Legacies
The war is over but the godly games continue.
Stella McKay has only ever wanted one an epic romance like her parents have. She was raised on fairy tales and thinks she’s finally found her own legendary love with Prince Arden.
But when her prince is unexpectedly betrothed to someone else, Stella and Arden must seek out the goddess of love in the desperate hope she’ll grant them a coveted heart bond. Instead, the mischievous deity links Stella to the last person she’d ever want an intimate emotional connection Teddy Savero.
The only way to break the bond and reclaim her true love is to win the Gauntlet Games and secure a favor from the gods. The brutal tournament will test Stella in feats of wisdom, memory, and magic. But the greater threat to her happily ever after comes when Teddy enters as a contender.
With rebel assassins lurking, her opponents out for blood, and her new heart bond proving to be a perilous liability, Stella must outwit both gods and men before her competitors claim the winning favor—or her life.
A LEGACY OF STARS is a standalone next generation spinoff from The Lost God Series and can be read alone or as a follow up to the series. This spicy romance-forward romantasy features a deadly magical tournament, a rising political rebellion, complex sibling relationships, wound-tending, extremely reluctant allies to lovers, and a heart bond gone wrong. LEGACY is perfect for readers who enjoyed the next generation romance of LJ Andrew's EVER SEAS SERIES and the brutal warrior tournament of Jasmine Mas' BLOOD OF HERCULES.
Stella McKay has only ever wanted one an epic romance like her parents have. She was raised on fairy tales and thinks she’s finally found her own legendary love with Prince Arden.
But when her prince is unexpectedly betrothed to someone else, Stella and Arden must seek out the goddess of love in the desperate hope she’ll grant them a coveted heart bond. Instead, the mischievous deity links Stella to the last person she’d ever want an intimate emotional connection Teddy Savero.
The only way to break the bond and reclaim her true love is to win the Gauntlet Games and secure a favor from the gods. The brutal tournament will test Stella in feats of wisdom, memory, and magic. But the greater threat to her happily ever after comes when Teddy enters as a contender.
With rebel assassins lurking, her opponents out for blood, and her new heart bond proving to be a perilous liability, Stella must outwit both gods and men before her competitors claim the winning favor—or her life.
A LEGACY OF STARS is a standalone next generation spinoff from The Lost God Series and can be read alone or as a follow up to the series. This spicy romance-forward romantasy features a deadly magical tournament, a rising political rebellion, complex sibling relationships, wound-tending, extremely reluctant allies to lovers, and a heart bond gone wrong. LEGACY is perfect for readers who enjoyed the next generation romance of LJ Andrew's EVER SEAS SERIES and the brutal warrior tournament of Jasmine Mas' BLOOD OF HERCULES.
510 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2025
89 people are currently reading
1242 people want to read
About the author
Sheila Masterson
9 books375 followersWhen Sheila's not busy stabbing beloved side characters and dreaming up new ways to make her readers cry, you can find her practicing yoga, drinking fancy cocktails with friends, or curled up reading books or tarot. She lives outside Philadelphia with a small army of underwatered houseplants that survive out of spite.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
September 10, 2025
The biggest thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for an ARC of this book!
Holy #$#@ $#& &©%@ !!!! ....This is a good book. Ahhummm.. yeah, if you see my name on a missing poster, do me a favor and throw it away. I didn't know it was possible to be kidnapped by a book. But yet here I am, and ya know what? I'm cool with it.. like I am tied up in the back of the windowless van, happily singing along to the music, asking if we can swing by McDonald's, level of cool with it.
At first I wasn't going to read this. Because it states that it stems off another series and might have spoilers. Normally when that happens, I like to go all the way back to the beginning, I don't like feeling as if I missed anything.
But the millisecond I started listening to this I just couldn't turn it off. Everything about this book was absolutely captivating. I did feel as if I was missing out on a bigger picture. But the story in front of me was so engrossing, I hardly noticed.
This did it all for me and then some. My jaw was on the floor, the ugly crying, the chills, the goosebumps.. I diddddddd wanna sucker punch Stella at one point, homegirl REALLY knows how to kill a moment lol
Needless to say I recommend this book especially if you love fantasy with,
Games/trials
Jaw dropping twists
Fated bonds
Great one-liners!
Holy #$#@ $#& &©%@ !!!! ....This is a good book. Ahhummm.. yeah, if you see my name on a missing poster, do me a favor and throw it away. I didn't know it was possible to be kidnapped by a book. But yet here I am, and ya know what? I'm cool with it.. like I am tied up in the back of the windowless van, happily singing along to the music, asking if we can swing by McDonald's, level of cool with it.
At first I wasn't going to read this. Because it states that it stems off another series and might have spoilers. Normally when that happens, I like to go all the way back to the beginning, I don't like feeling as if I missed anything.
But the millisecond I started listening to this I just couldn't turn it off. Everything about this book was absolutely captivating. I did feel as if I was missing out on a bigger picture. But the story in front of me was so engrossing, I hardly noticed.
This did it all for me and then some. My jaw was on the floor, the ugly crying, the chills, the goosebumps.. I diddddddd wanna sucker punch Stella at one point, homegirl REALLY knows how to kill a moment lol
Needless to say I recommend this book especially if you love fantasy with,
Games/trials
Jaw dropping twists
Fated bonds
Great one-liners!
April 7, 2025
what do you get when you cross a reluctant, repressed, and resentful heir to the throne who desperately wants to forge his own path, and a fiery, determined romantic who wants a big fairy tale kind of love?? A LOVE STORY THAT HITS YOU LIKE THE TITANIC HIT THE ICEBERG.
i loved the lost god series (before you shame me for not having read the last book, IT’S BECAUSE I CAN’T SAY GOODBYE YET), and sheila has such a masterful way of taking pen to paper and making these characters feel so real that they take up permanent space in your brain long after you’ve finished the book — and this installment is no different. a next gen story about the offspring of some of my all time favorite characters?? SIGN ME ALL THE WAY UP.
writing this from beyond the grave, tbh, because my heart burst out of my chest about 72 different times reading this painfully romantic, SPICY (!!!! TEDDY SAVERO F*CKS), angsty standalone with literally scorching chemistry between the characters (the way i literally wondered out loud whether or not stella and teddy beat out cece and rainer for my new favorite couple in this series. BLASPHEMY. SACRILEGE. and yet???), as they navigate deadly trials, the weight of their family legacies, and an accidental, unwanted heart bond with the one person they can barely tolerate as long-time family frenemies — each other.
while this is a standalone that can definitely be read without the original series, if you want it to ruin you even harder, run back and read those first for more context (and to understand why kate simps so hard for rainer….THE ORIGINAL DADDY.)
thank you eternally to sheila for the opportunity to read an early copy! (i am on bended knee asking for more steddy? tella? content)
i loved the lost god series (before you shame me for not having read the last book, IT’S BECAUSE I CAN’T SAY GOODBYE YET), and sheila has such a masterful way of taking pen to paper and making these characters feel so real that they take up permanent space in your brain long after you’ve finished the book — and this installment is no different. a next gen story about the offspring of some of my all time favorite characters?? SIGN ME ALL THE WAY UP.
writing this from beyond the grave, tbh, because my heart burst out of my chest about 72 different times reading this painfully romantic, SPICY (!!!! TEDDY SAVERO F*CKS), angsty standalone with literally scorching chemistry between the characters (the way i literally wondered out loud whether or not stella and teddy beat out cece and rainer for my new favorite couple in this series. BLASPHEMY. SACRILEGE. and yet???), as they navigate deadly trials, the weight of their family legacies, and an accidental, unwanted heart bond with the one person they can barely tolerate as long-time family frenemies — each other.
while this is a standalone that can definitely be read without the original series, if you want it to ruin you even harder, run back and read those first for more context (and to understand why kate simps so hard for rainer….THE ORIGINAL DADDY.)
thank you eternally to sheila for the opportunity to read an early copy! (i am on bended knee asking for more steddy? tella? content)
March 23, 2025
✨A Legacy of Stars✨
Sheila is one of those few authors that I know will give me a story that will not only make it very difficult to put down and go about my daily living, but will also touch every single heartstring I harbor; that I will feel seen, encouraged, supported, and no longer alone. Her ability to write romance, mental health, and sensitive topics in a gentle and delicate way that allows thought for healing to be a possibility is profound and powerful.
In ALOS, we get to venture into a land where we have a LARGE back story and foundation if you’ve read her earlier series, The Lost God, but also a world that you can fall into with ease if you haven’t. Though I encourage you greatly to read it- it just adds depth AND it’s a favorite of mine that I’ll always recommend. We have a dual first person POV from our two MCs. Firstly is Stella, the miracle daughter from her parents who have a fairy tale romance history. She is fierce, outspoken, and compassionate and she desperately wants her own fairytale romance with her forbidden prince, Arden. Teddy, our MMC and broody Crown Prince, is dead set on marrying the woman he loves despite needing a political marriage.
After a heart bonding goes wrong, Teddy and Stella find themselves bound to one another AND both spontaneously entering into the deadly Gauntlet so they can acquire a favor from the gods to grant the desire of their heart. But let’s just say… what comes next is not easy nor typical. Oh, and did I mention that they hate each other?
I love love loved this story! I was a little concerned if it could possibly make my heart swoon like TLG series and Sheila DID NOT DISAPPOINT. I feel like the story moved in a unique way that kept me guessing to the end and I was completely absorbed. I cried. I yelled. I swooned. I pined. I ACHED. I cheered. This story was so beautiful. I will forever keep it tucked in my heart and can’t wait for a reread!
Tropes you may find in ALOS are unique bonds, enemies to reluctant allis to lovers, one bed, meddling gods, medium-high spice (and done sooooo well), deadly trials, fierce and compassionate women, anxiety rep, they comfort each other, wound tending, treehouse scene, and such a beautiful (and nostalgic if you’ve read TLG series) family reunion.
ALOS is technically a standalone in the same world as TLG series and release on April 10!
Sheila. Thank you. Always thank you. I am so honored to be on your street team.
Sheila is one of those few authors that I know will give me a story that will not only make it very difficult to put down and go about my daily living, but will also touch every single heartstring I harbor; that I will feel seen, encouraged, supported, and no longer alone. Her ability to write romance, mental health, and sensitive topics in a gentle and delicate way that allows thought for healing to be a possibility is profound and powerful.
In ALOS, we get to venture into a land where we have a LARGE back story and foundation if you’ve read her earlier series, The Lost God, but also a world that you can fall into with ease if you haven’t. Though I encourage you greatly to read it- it just adds depth AND it’s a favorite of mine that I’ll always recommend. We have a dual first person POV from our two MCs. Firstly is Stella, the miracle daughter from her parents who have a fairy tale romance history. She is fierce, outspoken, and compassionate and she desperately wants her own fairytale romance with her forbidden prince, Arden. Teddy, our MMC and broody Crown Prince, is dead set on marrying the woman he loves despite needing a political marriage.
After a heart bonding goes wrong, Teddy and Stella find themselves bound to one another AND both spontaneously entering into the deadly Gauntlet so they can acquire a favor from the gods to grant the desire of their heart. But let’s just say… what comes next is not easy nor typical. Oh, and did I mention that they hate each other?
I love love loved this story! I was a little concerned if it could possibly make my heart swoon like TLG series and Sheila DID NOT DISAPPOINT. I feel like the story moved in a unique way that kept me guessing to the end and I was completely absorbed. I cried. I yelled. I swooned. I pined. I ACHED. I cheered. This story was so beautiful. I will forever keep it tucked in my heart and can’t wait for a reread!
Tropes you may find in ALOS are unique bonds, enemies to reluctant allis to lovers, one bed, meddling gods, medium-high spice (and done sooooo well), deadly trials, fierce and compassionate women, anxiety rep, they comfort each other, wound tending, treehouse scene, and such a beautiful (and nostalgic if you’ve read TLG series) family reunion.
ALOS is technically a standalone in the same world as TLG series and release on April 10!
Sheila. Thank you. Always thank you. I am so honored to be on your street team.
August 20, 2025
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book! All opinions are my own.
This was a solid read with an interesting plot and lively characters, with great progression throughout. I loved that the story kept moving — there was always a lot happening at once, and the characters stayed true to themselves. Stella, our FMC, can be a bit annoying at times, but she has a good heart, even if she’s impulsive and a little immature. In the end, her intentions are pure. I also really loved her family, which deepened my connection to her even more. And I appreciated how love was a focal point in this story, even though the games took the spotlight sometimes.
The ending was a bit too long for me, but that’s just my preference.
I’d definitely recommend this one as a next read for anyone.
Overall rating: 3.75 stars
This was a solid read with an interesting plot and lively characters, with great progression throughout. I loved that the story kept moving — there was always a lot happening at once, and the characters stayed true to themselves. Stella, our FMC, can be a bit annoying at times, but she has a good heart, even if she’s impulsive and a little immature. In the end, her intentions are pure. I also really loved her family, which deepened my connection to her even more. And I appreciated how love was a focal point in this story, even though the games took the spotlight sometimes.
The ending was a bit too long for me, but that’s just my preference.
I’d definitely recommend this one as a next read for anyone.
Overall rating: 3.75 stars
March 31, 2025
4.5 star read for me <3
A Legacy of Stars is a standalone and can be read without reading The Lost God Series first BUT I feel like you will get more out of your reading experience reading TLG before you pick this book up! I just wanted to preface that first!
Sheila Masterson is one of my top five favorite authors and I will literally read anything she puts out into the world. She could share her grocery list and I would read it. There are very few authors in my opinion who can write such immersive stories where sometimes it doesn't even feel like you're reading a book! Sheila's stories are some of my favorites of all time and her characters mean more to me than she'll ever know.
I loved that this book was written about the children of the characters in TLG series. I honestly cried at the dedication and the first few chapters because of the nostalgia and the fact that Sheila gave us another story in Olney with all of my favorite characters. Teddy and Stella have so much of their parents in them but also they are so themselves ya know? Their banter is chefs kiss and I love the fact that they're both the oldest siblings. There's so much pressure in family expectations and being the sibling that has to be the role model. There were also some new characters introduced in this book and I am so intrigued about them and Sheila, I am begging, I need to know about them!!
This book made me feel all of the emotions, but I honestly wouldn't want a book written by Sheila to make me feel any other way. I am already planning a reread of A Legacy of Stars because I need to be back here.
A Legacy of Stars coming April 10, 2025!!!!
————————————
thank you so much Sheila for sending me an eARC in exchange for my honest review. all thoughts are my own.
A Legacy of Stars is a standalone and can be read without reading The Lost God Series first BUT I feel like you will get more out of your reading experience reading TLG before you pick this book up! I just wanted to preface that first!
Sheila Masterson is one of my top five favorite authors and I will literally read anything she puts out into the world. She could share her grocery list and I would read it. There are very few authors in my opinion who can write such immersive stories where sometimes it doesn't even feel like you're reading a book! Sheila's stories are some of my favorites of all time and her characters mean more to me than she'll ever know.
I loved that this book was written about the children of the characters in TLG series. I honestly cried at the dedication and the first few chapters because of the nostalgia and the fact that Sheila gave us another story in Olney with all of my favorite characters. Teddy and Stella have so much of their parents in them but also they are so themselves ya know? Their banter is chefs kiss and I love the fact that they're both the oldest siblings. There's so much pressure in family expectations and being the sibling that has to be the role model. There were also some new characters introduced in this book and I am so intrigued about them and Sheila, I am begging, I need to know about them!!
This book made me feel all of the emotions, but I honestly wouldn't want a book written by Sheila to make me feel any other way. I am already planning a reread of A Legacy of Stars because I need to be back here.
A Legacy of Stars coming April 10, 2025!!!!
————————————
thank you so much Sheila for sending me an eARC in exchange for my honest review. all thoughts are my own.
August 17, 2025
Oh my goodness, I just finished A Legacy of Stars and I am completely obsessed! 🌟✨ This book is an absolutely perfect blend of fairy-tale magic, intense competition, and swoon-worthy romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. 💖👑
Stella McKay is such a relatable and inspiring heroine—she’s brave, clever, and has this sweet dream of finding her own legendary love story, just like her parents had. I loved her determination and how she navigates all the chaos of the magical world around her. When she thinks she’s finally found her prince charming in Arden, I was totally rooting for her! 🥰💍 But then, bam! The unexpected twist with Arden being betrothed to someone else really threw me for a loop. That’s when things got even more exciting! 😱💘
The goddess of love linking Stella to Teddy Savero was such a clever twist—talk about a complicated heart bond! 💔💞 I felt all the feels watching Stella struggle with her emotions and trying to break free from a connection she didn’t want. Teddy is such a fascinating character—mysterious, a little rebellious, and totally intriguing. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I loved watching their relationship evolve amidst all the chaos. It’s a reluctant enemies-to-lovers vibe that just hits all the right spots! 😍🖤
The Gauntlet Games themselves sounded so epic and action-packed—think fierce magical feats, clever puzzles, and nerve-wracking tests of wisdom and strength. 🧙♀️🔥 I loved how Stella had to push herself to her limits and outwit both gods and men, all while trying to stay true to her heart. The stakes felt so high, and I was on the edge of my seat every time she faced a new challenge. The stakes weren’t just about winning the game—they also had huge implications for her future, her family, and her own happiness. The tension was real!
Plus, the world-building was absolutely gorgeous—rich, layered, and full of political intrigue, rebel factions, and complex sibling relationships that added so much depth to the story. 🌹✨ I loved how the story wove together magic, rebellion, and romance, creating a vibrant and immersive universe. And the emotional moments? They really hit me in the feels—wound-tending, loyalty, betrayal, and hope all mixed together beautifully.
Overall, this book was a rollercoaster of emotions—spicy, adventurous, and full of heart. 💫 If you love stories where strong heroines fight for love and justice, with a touch of mischief and a dash of danger, then *A Legacy of Stars* is totally for you! 📚🌟 It’s a standalone with so much depth, but I’d definitely read more from this universe because I’m already craving more of Stella’s journey.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves romantic fantasy with a little spice, a lot of magic, and a whole lot of heart! 💖🔥✨
Stella McKay is such a relatable and inspiring heroine—she’s brave, clever, and has this sweet dream of finding her own legendary love story, just like her parents had. I loved her determination and how she navigates all the chaos of the magical world around her. When she thinks she’s finally found her prince charming in Arden, I was totally rooting for her! 🥰💍 But then, bam! The unexpected twist with Arden being betrothed to someone else really threw me for a loop. That’s when things got even more exciting! 😱💘
The goddess of love linking Stella to Teddy Savero was such a clever twist—talk about a complicated heart bond! 💔💞 I felt all the feels watching Stella struggle with her emotions and trying to break free from a connection she didn’t want. Teddy is such a fascinating character—mysterious, a little rebellious, and totally intriguing. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I loved watching their relationship evolve amidst all the chaos. It’s a reluctant enemies-to-lovers vibe that just hits all the right spots! 😍🖤
The Gauntlet Games themselves sounded so epic and action-packed—think fierce magical feats, clever puzzles, and nerve-wracking tests of wisdom and strength. 🧙♀️🔥 I loved how Stella had to push herself to her limits and outwit both gods and men, all while trying to stay true to her heart. The stakes felt so high, and I was on the edge of my seat every time she faced a new challenge. The stakes weren’t just about winning the game—they also had huge implications for her future, her family, and her own happiness. The tension was real!
Plus, the world-building was absolutely gorgeous—rich, layered, and full of political intrigue, rebel factions, and complex sibling relationships that added so much depth to the story. 🌹✨ I loved how the story wove together magic, rebellion, and romance, creating a vibrant and immersive universe. And the emotional moments? They really hit me in the feels—wound-tending, loyalty, betrayal, and hope all mixed together beautifully.
Overall, this book was a rollercoaster of emotions—spicy, adventurous, and full of heart. 💫 If you love stories where strong heroines fight for love and justice, with a touch of mischief and a dash of danger, then *A Legacy of Stars* is totally for you! 📚🌟 It’s a standalone with so much depth, but I’d definitely read more from this universe because I’m already craving more of Stella’s journey.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves romantic fantasy with a little spice, a lot of magic, and a whole lot of heart! 💖🔥✨
August 12, 2025
i absolutely loved ALOS! this book is set in the same world as the lost god series but it can also be read independently! it's the next generation of characters and i found it a beautiful continuation of the gorgeous world built through the lost god series. there are so many quotes that stuck with me and there are many easter eggs if you get the chance to read the original series first (and approximately 1000% increased emotional impact). i loved this dual pov tale through trials, both physical and emotional, with such a range of characters. as an oldest child myself, i resonated with both our main characters quite frequently and if you're also an oldest sibling, i have a feeling you will cry before you even begin the story when you read the dedication. sheila, thank you for sharing your stories with the world and giving us another taste of this spectacular place. i can't wait for everyone else to experience this story too, just beware of the octo-bears, i hear their many claws are sharp. 🐻 🐙 ✨
update 8/12/25: I have had the pleasure of reading this book as an eARC from the author and now listening to the ALC, and the audio is so well done! I loved the voice actors and it really kept me engrossed in the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape for the ALC!
update 8/12/25: I have had the pleasure of reading this book as an eARC from the author and now listening to the ALC, and the audio is so well done! I loved the voice actors and it really kept me engrossed in the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape for the ALC!
April 14, 2025
Sheila Masterson - A Legacy of Stars // ARC review
Teddy is the heir to the kingdom of Argaria. He has the world resting on his shoulders and all he wants is the freedom to marry his girlfriend Grace. Stella is the daughter of Cece and Rainer McKay who has the biggest love story in Olney’s history. She knows she can’t live up to their relationship but still dream of marrying her own price, Arden. When both Teddy and Stella’s relationship crashes because of outward forces they elope to the palace of Desiree to get heartbonded. But fate has a wicked sense of humor and bonds Grace with Arden and Stella with Teddy. Now the enemies only option is to enter the Gauntlet Games to get a granted a wish from a god and marry their beloved.
A round of applause for Sheila! I read The Lost God series by her and was gobsmacked my how much I enjoyed the love triangle. Here she ups the game to a love square and I couldn’t be more pleased! The tension was real and it was delicious.
Enemies who gets a love bond is too fun. When two people who despises each other suddenly gets intimate feelings for the other, things are bound to get steamy and we get some fantastic spice. The bond effected them a lot but ultimately helped them greatly in the games. I can’t imagine how hard it’d be to navigate my own feelings while simultaneously feeling everything another person experience. On top of this, it’s the grief of losing their partner to someone else.
Stella and Teddy’s personalities complimented each other perfectly. It was no wonder Desiree would bond them. Stella was outgoing, kind and brave while Teddy was quiet, responsible and anxious. Some of my favorite scenes were when they tried to comfort each other through the bond. They got a genuin connection and I think they realised how much they gave up in their prior relationships when they had to lean on the other.
The trials were interesting, but in my opinion the best was how they gave them opportunity to work together. They couldn’t trust anyone but each other and things happen when enemies has to fight and kill together, for the other… But the memory trial was though. It revised a scene from The Storm King and it hurt to see Stella and Teddy experience their parents worst memories. Yet it gave them a better understanding og themselves, responsibility and love. The last trial was the worst. What the god forced them to do…
The ending was satisfying in a way where I liked the outcome for everyone and what they chose for themselves. However, I WANT MORE SHEILA!!! I had a amazing time reading the book and was so intrigued the whole time. I just had to continue chapter after chapter.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Teddy is the heir to the kingdom of Argaria. He has the world resting on his shoulders and all he wants is the freedom to marry his girlfriend Grace. Stella is the daughter of Cece and Rainer McKay who has the biggest love story in Olney’s history. She knows she can’t live up to their relationship but still dream of marrying her own price, Arden. When both Teddy and Stella’s relationship crashes because of outward forces they elope to the palace of Desiree to get heartbonded. But fate has a wicked sense of humor and bonds Grace with Arden and Stella with Teddy. Now the enemies only option is to enter the Gauntlet Games to get a granted a wish from a god and marry their beloved.
A round of applause for Sheila! I read The Lost God series by her and was gobsmacked my how much I enjoyed the love triangle. Here she ups the game to a love square and I couldn’t be more pleased! The tension was real and it was delicious.
Enemies who gets a love bond is too fun. When two people who despises each other suddenly gets intimate feelings for the other, things are bound to get steamy and we get some fantastic spice. The bond effected them a lot but ultimately helped them greatly in the games. I can’t imagine how hard it’d be to navigate my own feelings while simultaneously feeling everything another person experience. On top of this, it’s the grief of losing their partner to someone else.
Stella and Teddy’s personalities complimented each other perfectly. It was no wonder Desiree would bond them. Stella was outgoing, kind and brave while Teddy was quiet, responsible and anxious. Some of my favorite scenes were when they tried to comfort each other through the bond. They got a genuin connection and I think they realised how much they gave up in their prior relationships when they had to lean on the other.
The trials were interesting, but in my opinion the best was how they gave them opportunity to work together. They couldn’t trust anyone but each other and things happen when enemies has to fight and kill together, for the other… But the memory trial was though. It revised a scene from The Storm King and it hurt to see Stella and Teddy experience their parents worst memories. Yet it gave them a better understanding og themselves, responsibility and love. The last trial was the worst. What the god forced them to do…
The ending was satisfying in a way where I liked the outcome for everyone and what they chose for themselves. However, I WANT MORE SHEILA!!! I had a amazing time reading the book and was so intrigued the whole time. I just had to continue chapter after chapter.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 24, 2025
This book was pure magic. Hilarious. Sexy. Filled with all our favorite OGs from The Lost God series. Cultivated with such nostalgia, I was kicking my feet the whole time.
The angst and full spectrum of emotions were ever-present, as is true of any book of Sheila's. This will be a top favorite book, not just this month or year, but top book ever!
✨ Very reluctant allies to lovers
⚔️ Deadly trials
✨ Accidental heart bond
⚔️ Meddling Gods
✨ Elemental & memory magic
⚔️ Only one bed
✨ Nickname in foreign language
⚔️ Touch her/him & 💀
✨ "Oops, I took an aphrodisiac!"
The angst and full spectrum of emotions were ever-present, as is true of any book of Sheila's. This will be a top favorite book, not just this month or year, but top book ever!
✨ Very reluctant allies to lovers
⚔️ Deadly trials
✨ Accidental heart bond
⚔️ Meddling Gods
✨ Elemental & memory magic
⚔️ Only one bed
✨ Nickname in foreign language
⚔️ Touch her/him & 💀
✨ "Oops, I took an aphrodisiac!"
March 26, 2025
ARC Review. Murder, mayhem, and magic. What could be better!? And ohhhh man that slow burn was the absolute best. I love me a good enemies to lovers and this did not disappoint. I am unwell after that ending and still recovering. Teddy and Stella had me kicking my feet and giggling so hard. And their banter! UGH. I loved it. Everything about this book was amazing. The character arcs, the plot, the magic, the writing, just all of it. Sheila is a literary genius. I laughed, I cried, and the way she talks about anxiety just makes me feel SEEN. All the characters are so relatable and I hope she continues writing more books about the different characters we met. This is a standalone book set in the Lost Gods universe. I have not read the Lost God series yet but if it’s anything like this book then sign me up. A Legacy of Stars releases April 10th and I highly recommend!
March 22, 2025
Read itttttttt… now.
As someone who will religiously read anything Sheila publishes… this did not disappoint! As a stand alone set 20ish years after The Lost God series, this book provides a lovely step back into the world of Olney. While not necessary to have read The Lost God series I would SERIOUSLY recommend it to get the full emotional ruination that Sheila is so wonderful at providing.
What to expect:
- enemies to lovers and a whole lot of denial (but make it interesting)
- personal growth, knowing your worth and finding your way in life
- family dynamics (dysfunctional, full of love and everything in between)
- adventure and trials
- banter/humor
- fantastic writing and a book you won’t want to put down!!
(Written by an HONEST ARC reader. Don’t get it twisted)
As someone who will religiously read anything Sheila publishes… this did not disappoint! As a stand alone set 20ish years after The Lost God series, this book provides a lovely step back into the world of Olney. While not necessary to have read The Lost God series I would SERIOUSLY recommend it to get the full emotional ruination that Sheila is so wonderful at providing.
What to expect:
- enemies to lovers and a whole lot of denial (but make it interesting)
- personal growth, knowing your worth and finding your way in life
- family dynamics (dysfunctional, full of love and everything in between)
- adventure and trials
- banter/humor
- fantastic writing and a book you won’t want to put down!!
(Written by an HONEST ARC reader. Don’t get it twisted)
![Profile Image for Emilie [Vitals and Villains].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1726541054i%2F116757770._UX200_CR0%2C77%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
August 13, 2025
ARC Review
🌟A Legacy of Stars 🌟
Sheila Masterson
Releases April 10th, 2025
5 ⭐
I am obsessed with this, it's immediately being added to my (short) list of books that are vital to my existence. So far it is the only book I've read this year that has made it on that list.
This book takes place 20 years after the events of The Lost God series. I'm not here to preach about The Lost God series but I will say that if you haven't read it, you are seriously missing out! You could definitely read and enjoy A Legacy of Stars without reading the original series beforehand though. It follows the next generation of Stella and Teddy and there story is uniquely theirs. Two oldest children that claim to be the bane of each others existences just trying to live up to/overcome the expectations of their families and society. As an oldest child myself I found them both deeply relatable in their approaches.
The sheer amount of nostalgic joy that I experienced being back in Olney was almost too much for my cold heart to contain. Wanting to shed nostalgia tears was a new experience for me while reading. Daddy Rainer and Xander made me feral 🔥
Sheila always manages to make my feminist heart both happy and heartbroken. It breaks my heart that fictional fantasy worlds set in the past can so closely mirror present day 😒. In regards to this I will just leave this quote here:
"𝑴𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒓𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑶𝒍𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒎𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒑 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚’𝒅 𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒈𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒖𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈."
Thank you @sheilareadsandwrites for including me on your ARC team, I had the time of my life!!
Edit: It's months later and after finishing the audiobook I love this book even more, I didn't even think it was possible. The narrators did such a good job, I'm obsessed!
🌟A Legacy of Stars 🌟
Sheila Masterson
Releases April 10th, 2025
5 ⭐
I am obsessed with this, it's immediately being added to my (short) list of books that are vital to my existence. So far it is the only book I've read this year that has made it on that list.
This book takes place 20 years after the events of The Lost God series. I'm not here to preach about The Lost God series but I will say that if you haven't read it, you are seriously missing out! You could definitely read and enjoy A Legacy of Stars without reading the original series beforehand though. It follows the next generation of Stella and Teddy and there story is uniquely theirs. Two oldest children that claim to be the bane of each others existences just trying to live up to/overcome the expectations of their families and society. As an oldest child myself I found them both deeply relatable in their approaches.
The sheer amount of nostalgic joy that I experienced being back in Olney was almost too much for my cold heart to contain. Wanting to shed nostalgia tears was a new experience for me while reading. Daddy Rainer and Xander made me feral 🔥
Sheila always manages to make my feminist heart both happy and heartbroken. It breaks my heart that fictional fantasy worlds set in the past can so closely mirror present day 😒. In regards to this I will just leave this quote here:
"𝑴𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒓𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑶𝒍𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒎𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒑 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚’𝒅 𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒈𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒖𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈."
Thank you @sheilareadsandwrites for including me on your ARC team, I had the time of my life!!
Edit: It's months later and after finishing the audiobook I love this book even more, I didn't even think it was possible. The narrators did such a good job, I'm obsessed!
March 26, 2025
Sheila is a master of storytelling, plain and simple. A Legacy of Stars was my second encounter with her work, and it has only made me yearn for more. More of her stories, world-building, and her characters. More of the emotions she brings to life, more of those gut-wrenching, heart-shattering moments of pain and sorrow. More, more, more.
A Legacy of Stars follows the second generation, the children of characters featured in her Lost God series. I felt increasingly immersed in the world Sheila had created with each sentence. I saw glimpses of the main series, and wow, I need to get to it ASAP. I learned the aftermath. Now I need the before and the in-between.
The keyword of my review is "more", and honestly, I don't think it does Sheila's work justice. Her craft is otherworldly, and I couldn't be happier to be on her ARC team once again.
A Legacy of Stars is a story of true love and all its forms. Sometimes, it comes like a thunderstorm, crashing everything around you and focusing solely on the two of you. Other times, it is slow and methodical, taking time to grow and flourish. And sometimes, it focuses on self-love and learning to accept yourself with all your flaws and accomplishments. All those forms are beautiful and unique.
Maybe one's path ends in an epic romance, and another's in forging their path a bit differently. Not all loves are born in fire; some are born in time and understanding. Maybe not all love stories end up in ballads sung in taverns, but they are all worthy of a song, especially if Sheila composes them.
A Legacy of Stars, a standalone in Sheila's Lost God world, is filled with complicated sibling relationships, burdens of running kingdoms and fighting rebellions, deadly trials, revengeful gods and paths of fate. Topped with an array of emotions, friendship, love, devotion, and everything in between.
Read it, love it, and yearn for more of Sheila's stories. Simple as that.
A Legacy of Stars follows the second generation, the children of characters featured in her Lost God series. I felt increasingly immersed in the world Sheila had created with each sentence. I saw glimpses of the main series, and wow, I need to get to it ASAP. I learned the aftermath. Now I need the before and the in-between.
The keyword of my review is "more", and honestly, I don't think it does Sheila's work justice. Her craft is otherworldly, and I couldn't be happier to be on her ARC team once again.
A Legacy of Stars is a story of true love and all its forms. Sometimes, it comes like a thunderstorm, crashing everything around you and focusing solely on the two of you. Other times, it is slow and methodical, taking time to grow and flourish. And sometimes, it focuses on self-love and learning to accept yourself with all your flaws and accomplishments. All those forms are beautiful and unique.
Maybe one's path ends in an epic romance, and another's in forging their path a bit differently. Not all loves are born in fire; some are born in time and understanding. Maybe not all love stories end up in ballads sung in taverns, but they are all worthy of a song, especially if Sheila composes them.
A Legacy of Stars, a standalone in Sheila's Lost God world, is filled with complicated sibling relationships, burdens of running kingdoms and fighting rebellions, deadly trials, revengeful gods and paths of fate. Topped with an array of emotions, friendship, love, devotion, and everything in between.
Read it, love it, and yearn for more of Sheila's stories. Simple as that.
June 2, 2025
♾️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏹🏹
ARC REVIEW
“𝑶𝒉, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒐 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒅𝒅𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒔𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
It is no secret that I love The Lost God series, so to be able to revisit those characters again? SIGN ME UP!!! A Legacy of Stars is the perfect blend of a fresh story with new, wonderfully complex characters — and nostalgia and time with the characters I already love.
From page one I was fully invested and obsessed with this story. You're telling me that Rainer McKay is now a silver fox and we get to see him be the most perfect dad to Stella? I'm a puddle. Much like Stella's bff Kate, I too was never the same after hearing him say Good Girl. But the characters of The Lost God series are not the focus of this story. Instead, we get to fall in love with Stella McKay and Teddy Savero. And they make it so easy to do so.
Stella wants a love story like her parents. Teddy wants to be able to make his own choices. They both have desires they feel are just out of reach. Enter, a deadly tournament with a prize that is a gift from the gods. What better way to get what you want?
I just love these characters so much. They are so different from each other and yet both feel like soul characters for me. I understand them and seeing how they overcome not only external obstacles (literally), but the ones that exist within their own minds, brings me so much joy.
I'm obsessed with this book and I hope one day we get more Legacy stories.
𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒇𝒕, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒘𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒑 𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕.
Read March 20-23, 2025
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏹🏹
ARC REVIEW
“𝑶𝒉, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒐 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒅𝒅𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒔𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
It is no secret that I love The Lost God series, so to be able to revisit those characters again? SIGN ME UP!!! A Legacy of Stars is the perfect blend of a fresh story with new, wonderfully complex characters — and nostalgia and time with the characters I already love.
From page one I was fully invested and obsessed with this story. You're telling me that Rainer McKay is now a silver fox and we get to see him be the most perfect dad to Stella? I'm a puddle. Much like Stella's bff Kate, I too was never the same after hearing him say Good Girl. But the characters of The Lost God series are not the focus of this story. Instead, we get to fall in love with Stella McKay and Teddy Savero. And they make it so easy to do so.
Stella wants a love story like her parents. Teddy wants to be able to make his own choices. They both have desires they feel are just out of reach. Enter, a deadly tournament with a prize that is a gift from the gods. What better way to get what you want?
I just love these characters so much. They are so different from each other and yet both feel like soul characters for me. I understand them and seeing how they overcome not only external obstacles (literally), but the ones that exist within their own minds, brings me so much joy.
I'm obsessed with this book and I hope one day we get more Legacy stories.
𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒇𝒕, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒘𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒑 𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕.
Read March 20-23, 2025
October 19, 2025
✨ Tropes:
Trials
Rivals to lovers
Gods/Goddesses
Bonds
Multiple POV
Dual Narration Audiobook
✨ WOW. This story was SO GOOD. I’m a sucker for a rivals to lovers, so I knew I was going to love this, but I didn’t know I was going to love it THIS MUCH. I have a new auto-buy author.
Teddy and Stella, lifelong rivals, have never been able to choose their own lives, always living in the shadow of their parents. When each of their separate relationships are threatened, they seek to be bonded to their partners by the goddess of love, in spite of their parents’ wishes. They enter the temple rivals with partners, and leave the temple rivals THAT ARE BONDED TOGETHER. Oops. Unhappy with their hand, they both enter the Gauntlet Games, which, should they win, would ensure them a favor from a god, so they may marry who they want. Now they’re stuck in the trials, able to feel everything the other person feels, and highly attracted to each other.
THIS STORYLINE WAS SO GOOD. It was so unique. The trials were unique. I loved that there was a balance between trials, character development, and even the underlying additional conflict of the Sons of Endros uprising.
I loved all of the characters. I loved the tension between Teddy and Stella. I loved the minor (and well used) miscommunication like JUST TELL EACH OTHER YOU LOVE EACH OTHER COME ON. I loved their siblings and their parents, and even some of the other competitors.
As far as the audiobook goes, I loved the narrators as well! They both were able to differentiate between characters and display emotion perfectly. Usually fantasy audiobooks are just TOO MUCH for me, so I’d rather just read the book. I enjoyed this audiobook and will likely re-read it on kindle or physical book as well!
Trials
Rivals to lovers
Gods/Goddesses
Bonds
Multiple POV
Dual Narration Audiobook
✨ WOW. This story was SO GOOD. I’m a sucker for a rivals to lovers, so I knew I was going to love this, but I didn’t know I was going to love it THIS MUCH. I have a new auto-buy author.
Teddy and Stella, lifelong rivals, have never been able to choose their own lives, always living in the shadow of their parents. When each of their separate relationships are threatened, they seek to be bonded to their partners by the goddess of love, in spite of their parents’ wishes. They enter the temple rivals with partners, and leave the temple rivals THAT ARE BONDED TOGETHER. Oops. Unhappy with their hand, they both enter the Gauntlet Games, which, should they win, would ensure them a favor from a god, so they may marry who they want. Now they’re stuck in the trials, able to feel everything the other person feels, and highly attracted to each other.
THIS STORYLINE WAS SO GOOD. It was so unique. The trials were unique. I loved that there was a balance between trials, character development, and even the underlying additional conflict of the Sons of Endros uprising.
I loved all of the characters. I loved the tension between Teddy and Stella. I loved the minor (and well used) miscommunication like JUST TELL EACH OTHER YOU LOVE EACH OTHER COME ON. I loved their siblings and their parents, and even some of the other competitors.
As far as the audiobook goes, I loved the narrators as well! They both were able to differentiate between characters and display emotion perfectly. Usually fantasy audiobooks are just TOO MUCH for me, so I’d rather just read the book. I enjoyed this audiobook and will likely re-read it on kindle or physical book as well!
October 23, 2025
Genre: Romantacy
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: None
Noteworthy: This is a standalone that is connected to a previous series but can be read on its own easily. Dual POV. Check content warnings. Available on KU.
This book provides pretty much the perfect romantacy experience. Rivals to lovers, tight family bonds, amazing games and trials, and meddling gods. The book starts out with 2 young adults who are very sure of their paths in life. But of course fate and the gods have other plans. The maturation of the main characters here is an absolute thing of beauty. You will be so frustrated with their stubborn viewpoints at times but as the story progresses the sadness flourishes into something that will break your heart and piece it back together. Ultimately this is a story about trying to figure out who you are when you are young and it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Living up to the expectations placed on you by yourself, your family and society. It's honestly perfect!
The side characters are just chef's kiss! I pray one day we get more of their stories.
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: None
Noteworthy: This is a standalone that is connected to a previous series but can be read on its own easily. Dual POV. Check content warnings. Available on KU.
This book provides pretty much the perfect romantacy experience. Rivals to lovers, tight family bonds, amazing games and trials, and meddling gods. The book starts out with 2 young adults who are very sure of their paths in life. But of course fate and the gods have other plans. The maturation of the main characters here is an absolute thing of beauty. You will be so frustrated with their stubborn viewpoints at times but as the story progresses the sadness flourishes into something that will break your heart and piece it back together. Ultimately this is a story about trying to figure out who you are when you are young and it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Living up to the expectations placed on you by yourself, your family and society. It's honestly perfect!
The side characters are just chef's kiss! I pray one day we get more of their stories.
March 23, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! If you enjoyed the Lost God series, this return to Olney is for you. If you haven’t read her first series, come back to this review after you read them!!
I think what I loved most about this book were two things :
1) the strong female characters - old and new. There were so many amazing women introduced and I can’t wait to read more about them. They were witty, strong, empathetic, brave and all around bad ass.
2) the Easter eggs and calls back to the original series. I loved seeing our old favorites 20+ years later and their relationships with each other and their kids. I screamed with delight when the cabin reappeared in this story (iykyk).
Can’t recommend it enough & I am grateful I got to read this ARC.
I think what I loved most about this book were two things :
1) the strong female characters - old and new. There were so many amazing women introduced and I can’t wait to read more about them. They were witty, strong, empathetic, brave and all around bad ass.
2) the Easter eggs and calls back to the original series. I loved seeing our old favorites 20+ years later and their relationships with each other and their kids. I screamed with delight when the cabin reappeared in this story (iykyk).
Can’t recommend it enough & I am grateful I got to read this ARC.
April 11, 2025
✨Literal Chills✨
I don’t often read standalone novels, but this one did not disappoint! I loved every single bit of this book.
I loved the diverse personalities of the characters, the lush lore and history, the slow and painful burn of romance, and the emotional ride it took me on. I actually cried at one point. I almost threw my phone across the room!
I think this book has a lovely balance of epic adventure, spice and banter. It keeps you giggling, glancing around to make sure no one is watching you read them spicy scenes, and makes you turn the page at an unprecedented speed.
The writing is beautiful, the dialogue flows wonderfully, and the world is magnificent. My biggest issue with this book is that there isn’t more of it.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and formed after the completion of this book.
I don’t often read standalone novels, but this one did not disappoint! I loved every single bit of this book.
I loved the diverse personalities of the characters, the lush lore and history, the slow and painful burn of romance, and the emotional ride it took me on. I actually cried at one point. I almost threw my phone across the room!
I think this book has a lovely balance of epic adventure, spice and banter. It keeps you giggling, glancing around to make sure no one is watching you read them spicy scenes, and makes you turn the page at an unprecedented speed.
The writing is beautiful, the dialogue flows wonderfully, and the world is magnificent. My biggest issue with this book is that there isn’t more of it.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and formed after the completion of this book.
July 6, 2025
A Legacy of Stars: The Lost God Legacies
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
A Legacy of Stars is a tense escape into a Regency-esque time in a vivid fantasy world that takes you through a deadly game full of unique magic and various types of bonds and love.
"There’s wisdom in choosing battles you know you can win."
Themes: Rebellion, Sexism, power, the right to choose, prejudice,
Tropes: Unique Magic, Dual POV, Rivals to Lovers, Deadly Games, Fierce Demigoddess FMC/Broody Prince MMC, Magical Bonds, One Bed, Political Intrigue, Wound Tending, Dirty Talk, Banter, Slow Burn
"A woman was judged on every nuance and flaw while men were applauded for simply being respectful."
Stella (FMC) and Teddy (MMC) are the children of characters from The Lost Gods series. Stella and her partner, Arden, go see the Goddess of love in an attempt to be bonded. Separately, Teddy and his partner, Grace, also decide to go see the same goddess. On the same day. In a twist of fate, or gods playing games, Stella and Teddy wind up bonded to one another - even though they've disliked one another for many years. In one final, desperate attempt to have a choice in who they marry, both Stella and Teddy sign up for the Gauntlet Games - the winner of which is granted a favor from the gods. But there can only be one winner and if the games themselves weren't dangerous enough, the other players are allowed to attack and even kill one another. Oh, and a rebel group threatening their lives.
✨While this is a standalone, and does stand strong on its own, I do recommend reading The Lost God series first for the strongest impact. I didn't read TLG prior and feel that's why A Legacy of Stars didn't quite punch me in the feels as hard. I meant to, but forgot until I was finishing this book. It still made me feel, but not quite as viscerally as I prefer. You don't need to read TLG series to understand the world, ALOS truly stands on its own, to be clear.✨
📝 I found the plot to be interesting and draws you into the story pretty immediately. I appreciate the way Sheila is able to weave dual first person POV and a layered plot together into an epic journey through a magic infused deadly competition. The stakes are high and make sense for the world.
“Sometimes we all just need a hand to hold when we’re close to breaking.”
There are potentially sensitive topics (see ⚠️ at end for list) and Sheila handles them with sensitivity and grace, in my opinion. This in an area I feel Sheila excels in - showing vulnerability in sensitive topics in a positive, healthy manner.
“[Redacted] is lovely and your affection for her is clear, but that’s unwise. You don’t want to give her the wrong idea.”
Teddy: “The idea that I value her and she’s an important part of my life?”
✍🏼 Descriptively and clearly written, ALOS was a pleasure to read and picture. The tone changes just slightly enough between POVs that you're able to feel the difference but not so much that it's jarring to the reader.
“I’m not drunk. I’m just not sober, strictly speaking.”
🗨️ I found the dialogue to match the characters beautifully and feel it reads smoothly. I especially love the banter between the MCs, as well as the sibling/friends banter. That was so much fun I couldn't help but smile. I chuckled out loud a few times reading the banter between Stella and her BFF, Kate - especially the Kate's thirsty jokes about Stella's dad. 😂
"What was a spell if not something woven from vision and words and will?"
🗺️ The world is fully fleshed out and makes sense The politics made sense and I appreciate the real world parallels. I love that Sheila managed to make a world that's different while not being confusing or difficult to understand how things work.
I was in love with this Regency-esque time period fantasy world and need more asap.
"...for the sake of [redacted]'s reputation, Teddy didn’t want her to be caught alone with him."
"You’re young. You should have your fun... I hope you’re being careful and using your monthly preventative spell so you don’t have any rosebuds of your own before you want them.”
This doesn't really impact the plot and is a small thing, but it bothered me. It's stated a few times that a male and a woman being caught alone would ruin her reputation - ok, fine, makes sense for the time period/world. But the world is pretty sex-positive and has its own form of monthly birth control. It's incredibly minor and has no bearing on the plot, but my brain grabbed it and won't let go. It could absolutely be me overthinking or misunderstanding, though.
⏳Well paced, on the quicker end of medium (maybe the slow end of fast), I would say. It uses multiple strategies to push the plot along, which I appreciate.
"It was unclear whether affinity was influenced by personality or vice versa."
🔮 I found the magic to be fun and interesting, well developed and explained. It makes sense, it has a cost. I really enjoyed the memory magic and that for certain types of magic to be "bound" when kids are too young to safely control them (then unbound when they're older and have more control). I love Sheila's magical twist on nature vs nurture.
👥 I freaking love that A Legacy of Stars gives us a diverse cast. 🙌🏼 If you're looking for a book with brown MCs - and they're royalty (some are Godesses/Gods), check ALOS out. 🫅🏿
The characters are well developed and show a lot of growth. I love the look into the various ways characters interact and are impacted with others and the various types of love.
“Oh, thank goodness. I thought I sensed a dark, brooding energy in the temple. I was worried there was a haunting, but your presence explains everything.”
💞 I thoroughly enjoyed their will they/won't they, how they both pined for others and the way they ended up pining for one another. I found the start of their relationship to be fun and unique.
It was a bit of a slow burn up until it wasn't, and then their relationship progressed a tad quicker than I prefer. I wanted a bit more time in the early stages of their relationship.
🌶️ Open door with 3+ full, detailed scenes. I would say it's a bit of a delicious slow burn.
(🛖 Scene 🥵) If you enjoy a dirty talking MMC, especially a repressed heir than only seems to come alive and into his own between the sheets - you're gonna love Teddy.
⚠️ TW/CW: violence, death, mild gore, anxiety attacks, fire, drowning, misogyny, cutting of the palm for a magical exchange, and explicit sex.
Thank you @ Sheila Masterson for the opportunity to read this eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
---------
4.5, I think. Goodreads PLEASE give us the option for fraction ratings.
I hope I can fit TLG series in soon, because while this can be read as a standalone, I think it would've hit me harder emotionally if I had read it first. which I had planned to, but I forgot.
frtc
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
A Legacy of Stars is a tense escape into a Regency-esque time in a vivid fantasy world that takes you through a deadly game full of unique magic and various types of bonds and love.
"There’s wisdom in choosing battles you know you can win."
Themes: Rebellion, Sexism, power, the right to choose, prejudice,
Tropes: Unique Magic, Dual POV, Rivals to Lovers, Deadly Games, Fierce Demigoddess FMC/Broody Prince MMC, Magical Bonds, One Bed, Political Intrigue, Wound Tending, Dirty Talk, Banter, Slow Burn
"A woman was judged on every nuance and flaw while men were applauded for simply being respectful."
Stella (FMC) and Teddy (MMC) are the children of characters from The Lost Gods series. Stella and her partner, Arden, go see the Goddess of love in an attempt to be bonded. Separately, Teddy and his partner, Grace, also decide to go see the same goddess. On the same day. In a twist of fate, or gods playing games, Stella and Teddy wind up bonded to one another - even though they've disliked one another for many years. In one final, desperate attempt to have a choice in who they marry, both Stella and Teddy sign up for the Gauntlet Games - the winner of which is granted a favor from the gods. But there can only be one winner and if the games themselves weren't dangerous enough, the other players are allowed to attack and even kill one another. Oh, and a rebel group threatening their lives.
✨While this is a standalone, and does stand strong on its own, I do recommend reading The Lost God series first for the strongest impact. I didn't read TLG prior and feel that's why A Legacy of Stars didn't quite punch me in the feels as hard. I meant to, but forgot until I was finishing this book. It still made me feel, but not quite as viscerally as I prefer. You don't need to read TLG series to understand the world, ALOS truly stands on its own, to be clear.✨
📝 I found the plot to be interesting and draws you into the story pretty immediately. I appreciate the way Sheila is able to weave dual first person POV and a layered plot together into an epic journey through a magic infused deadly competition. The stakes are high and make sense for the world.
“Sometimes we all just need a hand to hold when we’re close to breaking.”
There are potentially sensitive topics (see ⚠️ at end for list) and Sheila handles them with sensitivity and grace, in my opinion. This in an area I feel Sheila excels in - showing vulnerability in sensitive topics in a positive, healthy manner.
“[Redacted] is lovely and your affection for her is clear, but that’s unwise. You don’t want to give her the wrong idea.”
Teddy: “The idea that I value her and she’s an important part of my life?”
✍🏼 Descriptively and clearly written, ALOS was a pleasure to read and picture. The tone changes just slightly enough between POVs that you're able to feel the difference but not so much that it's jarring to the reader.
“I’m not drunk. I’m just not sober, strictly speaking.”
🗨️ I found the dialogue to match the characters beautifully and feel it reads smoothly. I especially love the banter between the MCs, as well as the sibling/friends banter. That was so much fun I couldn't help but smile. I chuckled out loud a few times reading the banter between Stella and her BFF, Kate - especially the Kate's thirsty jokes about Stella's dad. 😂
"What was a spell if not something woven from vision and words and will?"
🗺️ The world is fully fleshed out and makes sense The politics made sense and I appreciate the real world parallels. I love that Sheila managed to make a world that's different while not being confusing or difficult to understand how things work.
I was in love with this Regency-esque time period fantasy world and need more asap.
"...for the sake of [redacted]'s reputation, Teddy didn’t want her to be caught alone with him."
"You’re young. You should have your fun... I hope you’re being careful and using your monthly preventative spell so you don’t have any rosebuds of your own before you want them.”
This doesn't really impact the plot and is a small thing, but it bothered me. It's stated a few times that a male and a woman being caught alone would ruin her reputation - ok, fine, makes sense for the time period/world. But the world is pretty sex-positive and has its own form of monthly birth control. It's incredibly minor and has no bearing on the plot, but my brain grabbed it and won't let go. It could absolutely be me overthinking or misunderstanding, though.
⏳Well paced, on the quicker end of medium (maybe the slow end of fast), I would say. It uses multiple strategies to push the plot along, which I appreciate.
"It was unclear whether affinity was influenced by personality or vice versa."
🔮 I found the magic to be fun and interesting, well developed and explained. It makes sense, it has a cost. I really enjoyed the memory magic and that for certain types of magic to be "bound" when kids are too young to safely control them (then unbound when they're older and have more control). I love Sheila's magical twist on nature vs nurture.
👥 I freaking love that A Legacy of Stars gives us a diverse cast. 🙌🏼 If you're looking for a book with brown MCs - and they're royalty (some are Godesses/Gods), check ALOS out. 🫅🏿
The characters are well developed and show a lot of growth. I love the look into the various ways characters interact and are impacted with others and the various types of love.
“Oh, thank goodness. I thought I sensed a dark, brooding energy in the temple. I was worried there was a haunting, but your presence explains everything.”
💞 I thoroughly enjoyed their will they/won't they, how they both pined for others and the way they ended up pining for one another. I found the start of their relationship to be fun and unique.
It was a bit of a slow burn up until it wasn't, and then their relationship progressed a tad quicker than I prefer. I wanted a bit more time in the early stages of their relationship.
🌶️ Open door with 3+ full, detailed scenes. I would say it's a bit of a delicious slow burn.
(🛖 Scene 🥵) If you enjoy a dirty talking MMC, especially a repressed heir than only seems to come alive and into his own between the sheets - you're gonna love Teddy.
⚠️ TW/CW: violence, death, mild gore, anxiety attacks, fire, drowning, misogyny, cutting of the palm for a magical exchange, and explicit sex.
Thank you @ Sheila Masterson for the opportunity to read this eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
---------
4.5, I think. Goodreads PLEASE give us the option for fraction ratings.
I hope I can fit TLG series in soon, because while this can be read as a standalone, I think it would've hit me harder emotionally if I had read it first. which I had planned to, but I forgot.
frtc
August 14, 2025
And Sheila delivers another beautiful story about the blindness of first loves, an unwanted heart bond, only one bed 😏, she saves his life (more than once 😘), oh and spice 🌶️ that I didn’t know I needed!
This is a second generation standalone story and therefore it has some spoilers for the original series, but considering romance is about the journey, it doesn’t completely spoil things in the series. But if you want to experience the most emotional impact, you’ll want to start with The Lost God series first.
Thank you Sheila for the story. I’m “grown up enough to need fairytales again,” and this one serves the perfect pairing of grumpy x sunshine-ish). I laughed (often) and cried (sometimes in joy, sometimes in sorrow) and giggled with the banter and the jokes! I hope you are always blessed with wisdom, memory, and magic to guide your storytelling. ❤️
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is a second generation standalone story and therefore it has some spoilers for the original series, but considering romance is about the journey, it doesn’t completely spoil things in the series. But if you want to experience the most emotional impact, you’ll want to start with The Lost God series first.
Thank you Sheila for the story. I’m “grown up enough to need fairytales again,” and this one serves the perfect pairing of grumpy x sunshine-ish). I laughed (often) and cried (sometimes in joy, sometimes in sorrow) and giggled with the banter and the jokes! I hope you are always blessed with wisdom, memory, and magic to guide your storytelling. ❤️
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
September 2, 2025
ALC review
This was my first Sheila Masterson book and I am SOLD!! This is a spinoff? of an existing series, and I was worried I would be missing a ton of the backstory. While it definitely does have spoilers to the previous books if you read this first the way I did, it felt tactful and not info dumpy. I felt like I could overall follow the story well, and did feel like the book could be read as a standalone.
The narration was absolutely excellent, very engaging and engrossing. I enjoyed listening to this book immensely.
Thank you NetGalley, Sheila Masterson, and Dreamscape Media for an advance listening copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
This was my first Sheila Masterson book and I am SOLD!! This is a spinoff? of an existing series, and I was worried I would be missing a ton of the backstory. While it definitely does have spoilers to the previous books if you read this first the way I did, it felt tactful and not info dumpy. I felt like I could overall follow the story well, and did feel like the book could be read as a standalone.
The narration was absolutely excellent, very engaging and engrossing. I enjoyed listening to this book immensely.
Thank you NetGalley, Sheila Masterson, and Dreamscape Media for an advance listening copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
January 2, 2025
Beta read for A Legacy of Stars. Shelia continues to capture my imagination with her writing. I was so excited to dive back into TLG world with these characters. The adventures are heart pounding, the twists continue to surprise and the romance will forever make me swoon. I really loved the character development in this book. It was so fun to discover the new generation and witness their new struggles to find peace and happiness. A must read for those who have fallen in love with the original series!
August 18, 2025
4.75
Oh I LOVED this! What an amazing fantasy book and while I haven’t read the original series, this second generation standalone was certainly enough to hook me.
A Legacy of Stars was a fantastic read. From page one, it sucked me in with a force and I loved the intense emotions it evoked. This story has everything I want out of a fantasy book and I am so grateful for having read this.
PLOT
First off, let me say that while I got an idea of what happened in the original series and there were some details that are likely spoilers, I didn’t mind that one bit. If anything, it made me more curious for it.
I obviously can’t judge this from the perspective of someone who knows the Legacy of Gods books, but I was incredibly happy that everything made sense or was at least clear enough to deduct the necessary context. Not once did I feel lost, even thrust into what is obviously some very intricate lore.
The plot surely followed a lot of the common fantasy arcs and was thus not unexpected in general. Nonetheless, this book had me hooked and on the edge of my seat early in with its intensity and strong emotional pull.
While I always immerse myself into books as much as possible, this one basically yanked me out of real life and thrust me right into a movie I didn’t want to end.
A Legacy of Stars came with some of the best tropes (list at the end) and generally had everything I want from the kind of fantasy book that grips me and holds onto me long after I finish it.
There were moments when I was unsure how this could be resolved without being rushed, how this could be concluded to become the standalone promised. I was pleasantly surprised by the twists and turns the author used to achieve that and the pace was perfect in my opinion.
CHARACTERS
The dedication was enough to let me know that I would find parts of myself in this book and while this didn’t turn out to be exactly the way I thought it would, I still easily connected to the characters and felt incredibly seen.
Both the FMC and MMC were amazingly crafted with all the necessary layers and nuances. They clearly had their journeys to make, their lessons to learn and believes to question and I loved watching them do just that.
The literal chemistry that happens when two characters land in each other’s orbit and impact each other is something I always love and it was so perfectly executed here.
And this is not so much about changing each other as it is about making the other want to face their own truth and reality and potential, regardless of how uncomfortable that might be. So they can uncover what was hidden and grow into themselves. A Legacy of Stars does such a great job of this and for that alone deserves a ton of love in my opinion.
The intense emotions that I had during this were absolutely tied tothe amazing main (and some of the side characters) and I was so invested in how their relationship evolved.
WRITING
I think there were MINOR things I stumbled over but nothing worth mentioning specifically. Overall, I really liked the very obviously well developed writing style. I feel like especially the conversations were so well done and overall, the tone and writing were incredibly smooth.
I did personally have a bit of a problem with the female narrator but I can’t pin point why, she just triggered my hypersensitivity a bit. HOWEVER, this is INCREDIBLY subjective and taking a step back, I can say with absolute certainty that she is doing a great job. And I obviously loved the book enough not to be deterred.
Tropes:
- Very reluctant enemies to lovers
- Touch him/her and die
- Accidental fated mates
- One bed
- Accidental aphrodisiac consumption
- Magical tournament
- He gives her a nickname but won’t tell her what it means
- Forced proximity (sort of)
- Meddling deities
- Incredible spice
- Oldest child syndrome
- Banter
- Dual POV
- Second generation
---
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media and Sheila Masterson
Oh I LOVED this! What an amazing fantasy book and while I haven’t read the original series, this second generation standalone was certainly enough to hook me.
A Legacy of Stars was a fantastic read. From page one, it sucked me in with a force and I loved the intense emotions it evoked. This story has everything I want out of a fantasy book and I am so grateful for having read this.
PLOT
First off, let me say that while I got an idea of what happened in the original series and there were some details that are likely spoilers, I didn’t mind that one bit. If anything, it made me more curious for it.
I obviously can’t judge this from the perspective of someone who knows the Legacy of Gods books, but I was incredibly happy that everything made sense or was at least clear enough to deduct the necessary context. Not once did I feel lost, even thrust into what is obviously some very intricate lore.
The plot surely followed a lot of the common fantasy arcs and was thus not unexpected in general. Nonetheless, this book had me hooked and on the edge of my seat early in with its intensity and strong emotional pull.
While I always immerse myself into books as much as possible, this one basically yanked me out of real life and thrust me right into a movie I didn’t want to end.
A Legacy of Stars came with some of the best tropes (list at the end) and generally had everything I want from the kind of fantasy book that grips me and holds onto me long after I finish it.
There were moments when I was unsure how this could be resolved without being rushed, how this could be concluded to become the standalone promised. I was pleasantly surprised by the twists and turns the author used to achieve that and the pace was perfect in my opinion.
CHARACTERS
The dedication was enough to let me know that I would find parts of myself in this book and while this didn’t turn out to be exactly the way I thought it would, I still easily connected to the characters and felt incredibly seen.
Both the FMC and MMC were amazingly crafted with all the necessary layers and nuances. They clearly had their journeys to make, their lessons to learn and believes to question and I loved watching them do just that.
The literal chemistry that happens when two characters land in each other’s orbit and impact each other is something I always love and it was so perfectly executed here.
And this is not so much about changing each other as it is about making the other want to face their own truth and reality and potential, regardless of how uncomfortable that might be. So they can uncover what was hidden and grow into themselves. A Legacy of Stars does such a great job of this and for that alone deserves a ton of love in my opinion.
The intense emotions that I had during this were absolutely tied tothe amazing main (and some of the side characters) and I was so invested in how their relationship evolved.
WRITING
I think there were MINOR things I stumbled over but nothing worth mentioning specifically. Overall, I really liked the very obviously well developed writing style. I feel like especially the conversations were so well done and overall, the tone and writing were incredibly smooth.
I did personally have a bit of a problem with the female narrator but I can’t pin point why, she just triggered my hypersensitivity a bit. HOWEVER, this is INCREDIBLY subjective and taking a step back, I can say with absolute certainty that she is doing a great job. And I obviously loved the book enough not to be deterred.
Tropes:
- Very reluctant enemies to lovers
- Touch him/her and die
- Accidental fated mates
- One bed
- Accidental aphrodisiac consumption
- Magical tournament
- He gives her a nickname but won’t tell her what it means
- Forced proximity (sort of)
- Meddling deities
- Incredible spice
- Oldest child syndrome
- Banter
- Dual POV
- Second generation
---
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media and Sheila Masterson
August 9, 2025
ALC 🎧 Book Review 🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ummm… Yeah, I’m gonna have to start “The Lost Gods” now ‘cause this was GOODT.
So many good tropes like, they were fr troping.
Sheila Masterson… I was unaware of your game 👑
This was beautifully done. Reluctant allies gave me everything I needed it to give me, the burn was SLOW, the trials? DEADLY. The Gods/Goddesses? MEDDLESOME AF. It was just so well rounded & I love the ending ‘cause yes. We’re healing generation trauma in a Fantasy Kingdom too, I love it.
Our MCs are both young & figuring things out, but taking the wheel of their own destiny… With a lil push from somebody. Their banter & chemistry was just so much fun, esp when everything starts making sense. I just had sm fun w/ this— Even the side characters were all such great additions & I would love to see them get their own book. Esp Alex 🤍 Give me the sapphic romance we deserve lol!!
I wouldn’t mind a bit more on Kate too. She was such a bestie, like a real one forsure. I’m sad she didn’t get much screen time, but her character def showed out.
I also loved all the siblings too, matter fact the whole family were all soooooo 🥰🥰🥰 They each deserve a story lmfao.
The Mom? She’s a MUVA. I love love LOVE their bond together. Homegirl was fr talking that ish—
“Being a parent is always wanting better for your kids, while knowing that you can’t save them from making their own mistakes.”
“We are forged from our mistakes.”
“Being a Mother is redefining fear daily.”
“Sometimes a girl just needs her Mother.”
HEAVY ON THIS OKAY!!!!
I just love her perspective so much. Such a Queen.
And the memory? Ugh. Broke my heart fr.
Now Sheila? Towards the end of that trial?
Girrrrrrl— Jail. THAT SHATTERED ME INTO A MILLION PIECES LIKE PLEASE DO NOT PLAY RN.
Fr had me bawling my eyes out like pls… I can’t.
Overall, read this. And the series it’s connected to? This is a standalone, but I guess “The Lost Gods” adds more background to things??? Idk bro, I will find out soon lmfao. Emily Woo mf Zeller is THAT girl when it comes to narrating fr. Definitely one of my faves & James Fouhey? DON’T SLEEP ON HIM.
He’s fr that guy. They both did THAT.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ummm… Yeah, I’m gonna have to start “The Lost Gods” now ‘cause this was GOODT.
So many good tropes like, they were fr troping.
Sheila Masterson… I was unaware of your game 👑
This was beautifully done. Reluctant allies gave me everything I needed it to give me, the burn was SLOW, the trials? DEADLY. The Gods/Goddesses? MEDDLESOME AF. It was just so well rounded & I love the ending ‘cause yes. We’re healing generation trauma in a Fantasy Kingdom too, I love it.
Our MCs are both young & figuring things out, but taking the wheel of their own destiny… With a lil push from somebody. Their banter & chemistry was just so much fun, esp when everything starts making sense. I just had sm fun w/ this— Even the side characters were all such great additions & I would love to see them get their own book. Esp Alex 🤍 Give me the sapphic romance we deserve lol!!
I wouldn’t mind a bit more on Kate too. She was such a bestie, like a real one forsure. I’m sad she didn’t get much screen time, but her character def showed out.
I also loved all the siblings too, matter fact the whole family were all soooooo 🥰🥰🥰 They each deserve a story lmfao.
The Mom? She’s a MUVA. I love love LOVE their bond together. Homegirl was fr talking that ish—
“Being a parent is always wanting better for your kids, while knowing that you can’t save them from making their own mistakes.”
“We are forged from our mistakes.”
“Being a Mother is redefining fear daily.”
“Sometimes a girl just needs her Mother.”
HEAVY ON THIS OKAY!!!!
I just love her perspective so much. Such a Queen.
And the memory? Ugh. Broke my heart fr.
Now Sheila? Towards the end of that trial?
Girrrrrrl— Jail. THAT SHATTERED ME INTO A MILLION PIECES LIKE PLEASE DO NOT PLAY RN.
Fr had me bawling my eyes out like pls… I can’t.
Overall, read this. And the series it’s connected to? This is a standalone, but I guess “The Lost Gods” adds more background to things??? Idk bro, I will find out soon lmfao. Emily Woo mf Zeller is THAT girl when it comes to narrating fr. Definitely one of my faves & James Fouhey? DON’T SLEEP ON HIM.
He’s fr that guy. They both did THAT.
August 21, 2025
A Legacy of Stars: The Lost Gods Legacies
💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
I have to say I love the way Sheila Masterson wrote this story so eloquently and heartfelt. She took hard topics and put them in a soft meaningful way with respect. The love she shows to her characters brought them to life.
A fight with oneself for true love…
If true love is what one grew up seeing from their parents… How could you not hope for the same… what the kids do not see is the behind the scenes… the adventure in how the parents got to that point…profound and heartfelt.
An accidental overly sure encounter to have the Gods blessings… Backfired and created the hot mess that became the best thing that happened to them all… even if they all were all rebelling in their own rights…
What came next was a truly unexpected true love ❣️
The bond between Teddy and Stella (Meña) is🔥…. So inescapable as much as they fought it…the spicy 🌶️ romance that enthralled 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Stella so stubborn hardheaded…fighting her very own beauty and truly believing that she deserved to be loved the way she wanted!!!
Teddy always trying to appease everyone so much pressure to be the future king…
What started out as I thought I knew what was happening… keep me engaged to keep listening for
what actually happened!!
The Narrators: James Fouhey; Emily Woo Zeller
really really did awesome with the characters. For me it was like watching a really good spicy romance action packed kinda movie 🎥
I truly loved this read so much and can’t wait to read more from Sheila Masterson!!!
Thank you @NetGalley @DreamscapeMedia for making this read possible!!
💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
I have to say I love the way Sheila Masterson wrote this story so eloquently and heartfelt. She took hard topics and put them in a soft meaningful way with respect. The love she shows to her characters brought them to life.
A fight with oneself for true love…
If true love is what one grew up seeing from their parents… How could you not hope for the same… what the kids do not see is the behind the scenes… the adventure in how the parents got to that point…profound and heartfelt.
An accidental overly sure encounter to have the Gods blessings… Backfired and created the hot mess that became the best thing that happened to them all… even if they all were all rebelling in their own rights…
What came next was a truly unexpected true love ❣️
The bond between Teddy and Stella (Meña) is🔥…. So inescapable as much as they fought it…the spicy 🌶️ romance that enthralled 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Stella so stubborn hardheaded…fighting her very own beauty and truly believing that she deserved to be loved the way she wanted!!!
Teddy always trying to appease everyone so much pressure to be the future king…
What started out as I thought I knew what was happening… keep me engaged to keep listening for
what actually happened!!
The Narrators: James Fouhey; Emily Woo Zeller
really really did awesome with the characters. For me it was like watching a really good spicy romance action packed kinda movie 🎥
I truly loved this read so much and can’t wait to read more from Sheila Masterson!!!
Thank you @NetGalley @DreamscapeMedia for making this read possible!!
April 8, 2025
A Legacy of Stars is my second Sheila Masterson book. I have yet to read The Lost God series, and this one is a spin-off from that. I feel like this was perfect for someone new to the world because it had just enough information to get you caught up without being confused and there are enough secrets to discover to go back and read the original series.
The story follows Stella who is the daughter of legacies Cecilia and Rainer. Stella is definitely in her brat girl summer era at the beginning because she has it very easy and you see so much of her growth in the book. Enter Teddy who is her rival and they have such a long history of sabotaging each other. He definitely had a harder time growing up than Stella and he’s quite jealous because of it. But after everything he is such a green flag and I loved his character so much. There’s a bit of spice in this one which I’d give a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ rating to.
One of my favorite characters that had me cracking up was Kate and I loved her crush on Stella’s dad 😂I love it when a book has amazing side characters like this one!!
Stella and Teddy’s accidental heart bond situation adds such a great obstacle to the plot especially when they enter the games. The Gauntlet Games themselves are intense and add a lot of action. So when you’re not laughing at their banter, you’re rooting for them to live and complete the trials.
Overall, I’m obsessed with this book and definitely read it if you’re looking for a great standalone with the option to read the original series if you haven’t already. 5 big stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story follows Stella who is the daughter of legacies Cecilia and Rainer. Stella is definitely in her brat girl summer era at the beginning because she has it very easy and you see so much of her growth in the book. Enter Teddy who is her rival and they have such a long history of sabotaging each other. He definitely had a harder time growing up than Stella and he’s quite jealous because of it. But after everything he is such a green flag and I loved his character so much. There’s a bit of spice in this one which I’d give a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ rating to.
One of my favorite characters that had me cracking up was Kate and I loved her crush on Stella’s dad 😂I love it when a book has amazing side characters like this one!!
Stella and Teddy’s accidental heart bond situation adds such a great obstacle to the plot especially when they enter the games. The Gauntlet Games themselves are intense and add a lot of action. So when you’re not laughing at their banter, you’re rooting for them to live and complete the trials.
Overall, I’m obsessed with this book and definitely read it if you’re looking for a great standalone with the option to read the original series if you haven’t already. 5 big stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 5, 2025
5/⭐️ 3/🌶️A Legacy of Stars by Sheila Masterson, is a standalone spinoff from her series The Lost God. It can be read alone or as a follow up to the series. I personally have only read the first book in The Lost God, and felt this world was a place to jump into before I continue.
Blurb:
The war is over but the godly games continue.
Stella McKay has only ever wanted an epic romance like her parents have. She was raised on fairy tales and thinks she’s finally found her own legendary love with Prince Arden. But her prince is unexpectedly betrothed to someone else, Stella and Arden must seek out the goddess of love in the desperate hope she’ll grant them a coveted heart bond.
Sheila truly is masterful when it comes to writing fantasies with romance. You have a great cast of characters and the way that she builds them out helps weave such a great tale. It makes it easy to connect with not one but many of them in her books. I found Stella to be a refreshing fmc. You have someone who is looking for that all consuming love and it is so nice to see a character that is strong yet seeks that strong connection with another person.
The mmc was also so great to read. Vulnerable and kind. Carries the weight of the world on his shoulders but doesn’t show it. Is looking for someone to help carry it with him. The banter between these two was absolutely amazing. There were several times I could not stop giggling or kicking my feet. You could just see the romance and tension between them.
The godly games were well written and intriguing. The world building is well crafted and the side characters make this a well rounded story. This is an author that has quickly climbed to one of my auto read authors. I recommend not only checking out this book but then picking up The Lost God. I promise you that you will not regret it. This book releases April 10th. Happy reading!
Blurb:
The war is over but the godly games continue.
Stella McKay has only ever wanted an epic romance like her parents have. She was raised on fairy tales and thinks she’s finally found her own legendary love with Prince Arden. But her prince is unexpectedly betrothed to someone else, Stella and Arden must seek out the goddess of love in the desperate hope she’ll grant them a coveted heart bond.
Sheila truly is masterful when it comes to writing fantasies with romance. You have a great cast of characters and the way that she builds them out helps weave such a great tale. It makes it easy to connect with not one but many of them in her books. I found Stella to be a refreshing fmc. You have someone who is looking for that all consuming love and it is so nice to see a character that is strong yet seeks that strong connection with another person.
The mmc was also so great to read. Vulnerable and kind. Carries the weight of the world on his shoulders but doesn’t show it. Is looking for someone to help carry it with him. The banter between these two was absolutely amazing. There were several times I could not stop giggling or kicking my feet. You could just see the romance and tension between them.
The godly games were well written and intriguing. The world building is well crafted and the side characters make this a well rounded story. This is an author that has quickly climbed to one of my auto read authors. I recommend not only checking out this book but then picking up The Lost God. I promise you that you will not regret it. This book releases April 10th. Happy reading!
August 19, 2025
A Legacy of Stars by Sheila Masterson is the first book in The Lost God
Legacies. Have you ever started a book and from the first chapter you are hooked and mesmerized? This was ALOS for me, it grabbed me, hooked me and made me fall in love with the world. The amazing character development and absolutely amazing plot will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is a book with deadly trials, heart bonds, and amazing adventures!
This book has been a surprise read for me, Sheila is an amazing storyteller, and I'm so happy I have discovered her world. I would love to go back to the older generation stories and get even more in-depth. However, not reading them I haven't felt I’ve been missing any information and this book has an amazing backbone on its own. For our, FMC we have Stella who is everything you want. She’s a strong, cunning, intelligent, adept, fierce, and outspoken woman. Teddy is our MMC, and of course, what can you pair with an FMC like that? Just a broody, growling, stoic, protective and a teddy bear in his heart MMC.
The story, love, and the plot is unique and kept me guessing at every corner and kept me immersed the entire time. This book is a big YES as I have yelled, pinned, swooned, ached, and cheered!
Audiobook: performed by Emily Woo Zeller and James Fouhey and they did an amazing job bringing this story to life!
Thank you very much Sheila, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this amazing ALC!
August 26, 2025
3.5 stars
As someone who didn’t read the first series, and it’s clearly important, this definitely affected my thoughts on this book. It’s stated it’s a “standalone” and can be “read separately” however I don’t agree with that. I would suggest reading the other series first otherwise the side characters and their dynamics won’t make sense and it’s a large cast.
Our FMC is 23, but acts like she’s 14. This entire book happens because she doesn’t get the boy she likes who is EXTREMELY indifferent to her at the beginning. Stella and Teddy have disliked each other since they were teens, because she insulted his sister one time, and she apologized? So this started a prank war. Stella throws an actual hissy fit that her parents are having another child, making her adoptive siblings feel bad.
Stella also has this standard for herself because her parents have a “fairy tale romance”.
The ending of the book got better and the spice in the book was good, however I stick with my main comment that too much gets related to the original series with no background so I think it’s important to read that series first.
The narrator for Stella spoke slowly too, I usually listen to audiobooks at 1.8x and for this I had to listen at 2.5x.
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the ALC!
As someone who didn’t read the first series, and it’s clearly important, this definitely affected my thoughts on this book. It’s stated it’s a “standalone” and can be “read separately” however I don’t agree with that. I would suggest reading the other series first otherwise the side characters and their dynamics won’t make sense and it’s a large cast.
Our FMC is 23, but acts like she’s 14. This entire book happens because she doesn’t get the boy she likes who is EXTREMELY indifferent to her at the beginning. Stella and Teddy have disliked each other since they were teens, because she insulted his sister one time, and she apologized? So this started a prank war. Stella throws an actual hissy fit that her parents are having another child, making her adoptive siblings feel bad.
Stella also has this standard for herself because her parents have a “fairy tale romance”.
The ending of the book got better and the spice in the book was good, however I stick with my main comment that too much gets related to the original series with no background so I think it’s important to read that series first.
The narrator for Stella spoke slowly too, I usually listen to audiobooks at 1.8x and for this I had to listen at 2.5x.
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the ALC!
January 11, 2026
What happens after? That’s the question that the legacy of stars answers: what happens with the magical kingdom AFTER a war (the main plot in the main series) what happens with our main characters 20 something years down the line; what happens to the characters who are inadvertently in the shadow of a literal story??
Needless to say
I LOVED this. I found the standalone recommended to me first and saw it was a spinoff to the series and went ahead and read it anyways because I feel like I only wanted a standalone to read not a whole series…now I’m gonna read the series because this was so wonderful.
These characters just steal your heart. Of course they’re not perfect and they feel like they have big shoes to feel. Masterson writes anxiety well and fear of failure and also not wanting to kill which sometimes I feel like gets glossed over. But anyways they just feel human. And Stella is so 23 years old. Sometimes these 23 years in fantasy romances sound so immature and sometimes 18 year olds read like an almost 30 year old and I’m like hm. (And now I’m just rambling)
Writing was 10/10 Pacing was so good. 500 pages FLEW BY okay that’s all
Needless to say
I LOVED this. I found the standalone recommended to me first and saw it was a spinoff to the series and went ahead and read it anyways because I feel like I only wanted a standalone to read not a whole series…now I’m gonna read the series because this was so wonderful.
These characters just steal your heart. Of course they’re not perfect and they feel like they have big shoes to feel. Masterson writes anxiety well and fear of failure and also not wanting to kill which sometimes I feel like gets glossed over. But anyways they just feel human. And Stella is so 23 years old. Sometimes these 23 years in fantasy romances sound so immature and sometimes 18 year olds read like an almost 30 year old and I’m like hm. (And now I’m just rambling)
Writing was 10/10 Pacing was so good. 500 pages FLEW BY okay that’s all
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