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The Last Faeyte #1
Stars Above the Never Sea
It was said that to be loved by a Faeyte was beyond words.
That when the ability to fall in love was ripped from them, they grieved for a loss they could no longer recognize.
And it cost them everything.
***
Selene Amaris is finally going home.
After ten years of enslavement in the red lands of Terrosa, she finds herself chained once more, her wings bound and held in the cargo of a silent ship heading back to her homeland, Asteria.
No one is waiting for her. Her people were wiped out ten years ago before the Great Shift, when the air turned to wind and water in a single violent moment, and the sea became an endless inky starlight.
But the beat of her heart calls her back, and she will answer.
One last time.
***
Callan Edgeborn has one plan.
Survive.
To keep those he cares about safe, he follows orders and transports desperately-needed goods across the Never Sea – a sea made entirely of starlight, where one fall can send a man tumbling into unending night.
He’s the only one with the ability to make it through.
Selene has no patience for a cocky, lazy, irreverent ship captain, and Callan has no time to watch over an emotionless, cold female with infuriatingly captivating eyes.
But as they both know all too well; it only takes a second for the world to shift.
As Selene navigates her return, Callan finds himself risking everything he cares about to keep her safe. And with every passing day, it becomes clear that Selene has been sent back to Asteria for a reason.
One meeting will change their lives forever.
And one Faeyte will tear the heavens apart for a love that was never supposed to exist.
Stars Above the Never Sea is the first installment in a brand-new romantasy series from bestselling author Evelyn Flood filled with magic, found family, emotional angst, rage and a love that defies the gods themselves.
That when the ability to fall in love was ripped from them, they grieved for a loss they could no longer recognize.
And it cost them everything.
***
Selene Amaris is finally going home.
After ten years of enslavement in the red lands of Terrosa, she finds herself chained once more, her wings bound and held in the cargo of a silent ship heading back to her homeland, Asteria.
No one is waiting for her. Her people were wiped out ten years ago before the Great Shift, when the air turned to wind and water in a single violent moment, and the sea became an endless inky starlight.
But the beat of her heart calls her back, and she will answer.
One last time.
***
Callan Edgeborn has one plan.
Survive.
To keep those he cares about safe, he follows orders and transports desperately-needed goods across the Never Sea – a sea made entirely of starlight, where one fall can send a man tumbling into unending night.
He’s the only one with the ability to make it through.
Selene has no patience for a cocky, lazy, irreverent ship captain, and Callan has no time to watch over an emotionless, cold female with infuriatingly captivating eyes.
But as they both know all too well; it only takes a second for the world to shift.
As Selene navigates her return, Callan finds himself risking everything he cares about to keep her safe. And with every passing day, it becomes clear that Selene has been sent back to Asteria for a reason.
One meeting will change their lives forever.
And one Faeyte will tear the heavens apart for a love that was never supposed to exist.
Stars Above the Never Sea is the first installment in a brand-new romantasy series from bestselling author Evelyn Flood filled with magic, found family, emotional angst, rage and a love that defies the gods themselves.
477 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2025
52 people are currently reading
5340 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn Flood
25 books849 followersEvelyn Flood is an Amazon bestselling author of more than fifteen romance books.
She writes in various sub-genres including contemporary romance, fantasy romance and why choose, but you'll always find a main course of angst and a side dish of uncontrollable sobbing in every book she writes.
She's based in South Wales, where she spends most of her time hopping between coffee shops with her laptop in hand and buying a ridiculous amount of notebooks to write all of her ideas down.
Find her on Facebook in her reader group, The Evelyn Flood Collective.
She writes in various sub-genres including contemporary romance, fantasy romance and why choose, but you'll always find a main course of angst and a side dish of uncontrollable sobbing in every book she writes.
She's based in South Wales, where she spends most of her time hopping between coffee shops with her laptop in hand and buying a ridiculous amount of notebooks to write all of her ideas down.
Find her on Facebook in her reader group, The Evelyn Flood Collective.
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August 1, 2025
──⟡⋆˙✩ 4 stars ✩ ⋆˙⟡──
𝙄𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙮? 𝙄𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚'𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚?
ೃ⁀➷ This book is what you call an unexpected gem. I’m so glad I was approved for an ARC—I never expected to be drowned in emotion so deeply.
Setting: A ship sailing through ocean mists
𓂃 ࣪˖ ִֶָ𐀔 βօօҟͲąցʂ 𓍯𓂃
➸ He falls first
➸ Slowburn
➸ Ice queen x golden retriever
➸ Hurt/comfort
➸ Found family
➸ Silver-haired FMC
➸ Shadow magic
➸ Forced proximity
➸ Dual POV
CW: references to sexual assault
𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕀𝕤 𝔸𝕓𝕠𝕦𝕥: ℕ𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕪 𝔼𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 ᯓ★
To put it simply, this world has Faeytes and Caelumnai (plus us regular humans). Ten years ago, the Caelumnai massacred the Faeytes—and only one survived: Selene.
Now, she’s going back. Home. On a ship full of Caelumnai. Including its captain—Callan.
ೃ⁀➷ 𝕊𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕟𝕖 𝔸𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕤: 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝. "𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙚𝙭𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚."
A woman who watched her sisters, her friends—everyone she knew—get slaughtered. Then she spent the next ten years enduring the worst: sold, abused, objectified.
That pain built her armor: she’s icy, emotionless, blank-eyed and monotone. But inside? Inside she burns—quietly, furiously. She is both soft and steel. She speaks with authority, commands a room, and refuses to let anyone turn her into a pawn. She doesn’t just survive—she owns her survival.
Final Verdict: She has 110% of my respect. No one is doing it like Selene.
ೃ⁀➷ ℂ𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕒𝕟 𝔼𝕕𝕘𝕖𝕓𝕠𝕣𝕟: 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙝𝙞𝙛𝙩. 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙣𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙣𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙤𝙧, 𝙛𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙞𝙧.
When I say we all need a Callan, I mean it.
He’s the sunshine to her storm, the warmth to her cold, the balm to her scars. He spends his days finding ways to make her smile. He counts her laughs. He studies the stars in her eyes.
"𝙄𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 - 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜?"
"𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙀𝙙𝙜𝙚𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣."
"𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚." 𝙈𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙣 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙧. "𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜."
And when the moment comes?
This man CRAWLS for her. In front of an entire nation. Injured. Bound in chains. On his knees, in daylight—he crawls to her.
Final Verdict: Give me nothing. Give me no one. But please, give me Callan.
ೃ⁀➷ 𝕋𝕙𝕖 ℝ𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖: 𝙃𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙢𝙚. 𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨, 𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙢𝙚.
The "slowburn" tag doesn’t begin to cover it. There wasn’t even 0.5% insta-love or lust. No immediate wow she’s hot, no instant soulmates. The affection unfolded slowly, organically. And can I just say? For once, I loved being in the guy’s head. There were no vulgar thoughts—just genuine admiration and quiet yearning.
𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕚𝕥’𝕤 𝟜 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤, 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝟝 ᯓ★
The first half was perfection. Enchanting. Addictive. But the second half stumbled. It dragged in places, meandered in others, and only picked itself back up towards the end. That uneven pacing pulled me out of the immersion a few times.
𝕀𝕟 ℂ𝕠𝕟𝕔𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟 ᯓ★
This story was tender and devastating, quiet yet thunderous. A romance, yes - but also a journey of healing, survival, and learning to feel safe again.
Despite the pacing issues in the second half, this book carved out a place in my heart. And I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
Many thanks to netgalley and Evelyn Flood for an ARC. All thoughts are my own.
°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
My review on Instagram
𝙄𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙮? 𝙄𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚'𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚?
ೃ⁀➷ This book is what you call an unexpected gem. I’m so glad I was approved for an ARC—I never expected to be drowned in emotion so deeply.
Setting: A ship sailing through ocean mists
𓂃 ࣪˖ ִֶָ𐀔 βօօҟͲąցʂ 𓍯𓂃
➸ He falls first
➸ Slowburn
➸ Ice queen x golden retriever
➸ Hurt/comfort
➸ Found family
➸ Silver-haired FMC
➸ Shadow magic
➸ Forced proximity
➸ Dual POV
CW: references to sexual assault
𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕀𝕤 𝔸𝕓𝕠𝕦𝕥: ℕ𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕪 𝔼𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 ᯓ★
To put it simply, this world has Faeytes and Caelumnai (plus us regular humans). Ten years ago, the Caelumnai massacred the Faeytes—and only one survived: Selene.
Now, she’s going back. Home. On a ship full of Caelumnai. Including its captain—Callan.
ೃ⁀➷ 𝕊𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕟𝕖 𝔸𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕤: 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝. "𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙚𝙭𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚."
A woman who watched her sisters, her friends—everyone she knew—get slaughtered. Then she spent the next ten years enduring the worst: sold, abused, objectified.
That pain built her armor: she’s icy, emotionless, blank-eyed and monotone. But inside? Inside she burns—quietly, furiously. She is both soft and steel. She speaks with authority, commands a room, and refuses to let anyone turn her into a pawn. She doesn’t just survive—she owns her survival.
Final Verdict: She has 110% of my respect. No one is doing it like Selene.
ೃ⁀➷ ℂ𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕒𝕟 𝔼𝕕𝕘𝕖𝕓𝕠𝕣𝕟: 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙝𝙞𝙛𝙩. 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙣𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙣𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙤𝙧, 𝙛𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙞𝙧.
When I say we all need a Callan, I mean it.
He’s the sunshine to her storm, the warmth to her cold, the balm to her scars. He spends his days finding ways to make her smile. He counts her laughs. He studies the stars in her eyes.
"𝙄𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 - 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜?"
"𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙀𝙙𝙜𝙚𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣."
"𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚." 𝙈𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙣 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙧. "𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜."
And when the moment comes?
This man CRAWLS for her. In front of an entire nation. Injured. Bound in chains. On his knees, in daylight—he crawls to her.
Final Verdict: Give me nothing. Give me no one. But please, give me Callan.
ೃ⁀➷ 𝕋𝕙𝕖 ℝ𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖: 𝙃𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙢𝙚. 𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨, 𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙢𝙚.
The "slowburn" tag doesn’t begin to cover it. There wasn’t even 0.5% insta-love or lust. No immediate wow she’s hot, no instant soulmates. The affection unfolded slowly, organically. And can I just say? For once, I loved being in the guy’s head. There were no vulgar thoughts—just genuine admiration and quiet yearning.
𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕚𝕥’𝕤 𝟜 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤, 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝟝 ᯓ★
The first half was perfection. Enchanting. Addictive. But the second half stumbled. It dragged in places, meandered in others, and only picked itself back up towards the end. That uneven pacing pulled me out of the immersion a few times.
𝕀𝕟 ℂ𝕠𝕟𝕔𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟 ᯓ★
This story was tender and devastating, quiet yet thunderous. A romance, yes - but also a journey of healing, survival, and learning to feel safe again.
Despite the pacing issues in the second half, this book carved out a place in my heart. And I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
Many thanks to netgalley and Evelyn Flood for an ARC. All thoughts are my own.
°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
My review on Instagram
August 1, 2025
ARC:
I thought I was gonna love this book but it fell flat to me. The world building lacks and the characters didn't feel flushed out.
The magic system was confusing and it felt like there as too much going on all at once. It could be the fact I'm in a reading/ book slump or the prologue felt sooo unnecessary long, where I was just thrown into the book without any foundation.
The main character was in a sex slavery and breaks out of it and for me it feels like it was thrown in there because in the first chapter she escapes and commits murder for valid reason. It just feels easy and too convenient.
The male lead was different to other mmc in fantasys where he was the golden retriever type instead of the brooding grumpy type, but it all felt sudden when he was ready to die for her. I wished we got more of them spending time getting to know one another and trust within each other the way him and his crew does. There was a lot to remember like names of places, gods and other characters you meet.
The ending kinda pissed me off in a bad and good way, I just feel like main lead could have started to figure stuff out and been more of an ice queen.
I thought I was gonna love this book but it fell flat to me. The world building lacks and the characters didn't feel flushed out.
The magic system was confusing and it felt like there as too much going on all at once. It could be the fact I'm in a reading/ book slump or the prologue felt sooo unnecessary long, where I was just thrown into the book without any foundation.
The main character was in a sex slavery and breaks out of it and for me it feels like it was thrown in there because in the first chapter she escapes and commits murder for valid reason. It just feels easy and too convenient.
The male lead was different to other mmc in fantasys where he was the golden retriever type instead of the brooding grumpy type, but it all felt sudden when he was ready to die for her. I wished we got more of them spending time getting to know one another and trust within each other the way him and his crew does. There was a lot to remember like names of places, gods and other characters you meet.
The ending kinda pissed me off in a bad and good way, I just feel like main lead could have started to figure stuff out and been more of an ice queen.
July 8, 2025
WHAT was that ending?!?? 😭
I devoured this book. I was completely hooked — by the world, the characters, the writing… everything. Evelyn Flood has created a romantasy that feels like it was written for readers who love emotion, tension, and a little bit of pain with their magic. And the group of friends was absolutely giving Six of Crows — peak found-family vibes.
⚓️ Selene is such a compelling protagonist — sharp-edged, guarded, and trying so hard not to feel anything… until she does.
💫 And Callan?? The grumpy, reluctant captain with hidden depths and too many secrets? I was sold. Their chemistry is slow-burn, frustrating, electric — and I loved every second of it.
The setting is just so original — a sea of starlight, entire lands wiped from existence, a cast of broken people just trying to survive. And somehow, it all still feels incredibly personal and intimate. This isn’t just a fantasy adventure — it’s about grief, loyalty, power, and what it means to come home when everything you knew is gone.
And that ENDING?!?? 😭
I finished the last page and just sat there. I genuinely don’t know how I’m supposed to wait until December 2025 for the sequel — I need it immediately. Right now. Yesterday.
If you love romantasy that’s lyrical, emotional, and full of yearning — with found family, hidden magic, and a plot that tears your heart out and hands it back stitched with stars — read this. It’s absolutely one of my favourite reads of the year so far. 4.5 ⭐
I devoured this book. I was completely hooked — by the world, the characters, the writing… everything. Evelyn Flood has created a romantasy that feels like it was written for readers who love emotion, tension, and a little bit of pain with their magic. And the group of friends was absolutely giving Six of Crows — peak found-family vibes.
⚓️ Selene is such a compelling protagonist — sharp-edged, guarded, and trying so hard not to feel anything… until she does.
💫 And Callan?? The grumpy, reluctant captain with hidden depths and too many secrets? I was sold. Their chemistry is slow-burn, frustrating, electric — and I loved every second of it.
The setting is just so original — a sea of starlight, entire lands wiped from existence, a cast of broken people just trying to survive. And somehow, it all still feels incredibly personal and intimate. This isn’t just a fantasy adventure — it’s about grief, loyalty, power, and what it means to come home when everything you knew is gone.
And that ENDING?!?? 😭
I finished the last page and just sat there. I genuinely don’t know how I’m supposed to wait until December 2025 for the sequel — I need it immediately. Right now. Yesterday.
If you love romantasy that’s lyrical, emotional, and full of yearning — with found family, hidden magic, and a plot that tears your heart out and hands it back stitched with stars — read this. It’s absolutely one of my favourite reads of the year so far. 4.5 ⭐
July 25, 2025
*ੈ✩‧₊˚Rating*ੈ✩‧₊˚
3.25/5 Stars
˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗Tropes˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗
🏴☠ Enemies To Lovers
⚓ Found Family
🏴☠Golden Retriever MMC
⚓ Slow Burn?
🏴☠He falls First
⚓Forced Proximity
𓂃🖊Notes and Highlights-
ˋ°•*⁀➷” Punish them. Punish all of them.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷” ‘Gods.’ A hiss sounds from in front of me.
My smile is twisted. ‘There are no gods here.
Only me.’”
💭 Thoughts-
-ˋˏ✄┈┈I wanted to know more about the world's politics and just the overall way of life because I felt that felt very rushed while I was reading it.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈I know it said it was a “Slow burn” but honestly the so-called “Slow burn” felt so, so rushed and forced in all honesty.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈Girl was supposed to be this ice queen with no feelings yet immediately starts to trust everyone on the ship within a day like what is that…
Now Playing:
⊹ ࣪ ˖Fairytale By Alexander Rybak˖࣪ ⊹
0:01 ❍─────── 4:28
↻ ⊲ Ⅱ ⊳ ↺
Volume: ▁▂▃▄▅ 63%
3.25/5 Stars
˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗Tropes˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗
🏴☠ Enemies To Lovers
⚓ Found Family
🏴☠Golden Retriever MMC
⚓ Slow Burn?
🏴☠He falls First
⚓Forced Proximity
𓂃🖊Notes and Highlights-
ˋ°•*⁀➷” Punish them. Punish all of them.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷” ‘Gods.’ A hiss sounds from in front of me.
My smile is twisted. ‘There are no gods here.
Only me.’”
💭 Thoughts-
-ˋˏ✄┈┈I wanted to know more about the world's politics and just the overall way of life because I felt that felt very rushed while I was reading it.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈I know it said it was a “Slow burn” but honestly the so-called “Slow burn” felt so, so rushed and forced in all honesty.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈Girl was supposed to be this ice queen with no feelings yet immediately starts to trust everyone on the ship within a day like what is that…
Now Playing:
⊹ ࣪ ˖Fairytale By Alexander Rybak˖࣪ ⊹
0:01 ❍─────── 4:28
↻ ⊲ Ⅱ ⊳ ↺
Volume: ▁▂▃▄▅ 63%
September 16, 2025
This book was so beautifully written and yet so equally dark as well. You are immediately thrown into the story on the day that everything changed for the FMC, Selene. It might be a little overwhelming at first but once you get an understanding of the world building and everything that happened I immediately had a huge soft spot for Selene.
On a day that is supposed to be to be monumental and a day full of happiness to her people, turns into the worst day of her life. Everything she has known has come crashing down around her. Leaving her completely alone and the last Faetye. Her story is so heartbreaking and breathtaking in the worst possible way. She endured so much yet remains so incredibly strong through it all. When her and Callan come across one another, it is immediately shown that Selene wants nothing to do with Callan and hates everything he is and what he stands for. She is taken onto his ship and returns home after a long 10 years. Together they try to save her home that she has not seen in so long, with so much that has changed as well it is an uphill battle for the both of them.
This story was so captivating, beautiful and magical and yet so dark. This is an amazing take on such a classic tale of Neverland and Captain Hook. I cannot wait for the next installment of the series because it ends on a MASSIVE cliffhanger. If you are going to dive into this one I highly suggest you have your tissues close.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the author Evelyn Flood for the ARC!*
On a day that is supposed to be to be monumental and a day full of happiness to her people, turns into the worst day of her life. Everything she has known has come crashing down around her. Leaving her completely alone and the last Faetye. Her story is so heartbreaking and breathtaking in the worst possible way. She endured so much yet remains so incredibly strong through it all. When her and Callan come across one another, it is immediately shown that Selene wants nothing to do with Callan and hates everything he is and what he stands for. She is taken onto his ship and returns home after a long 10 years. Together they try to save her home that she has not seen in so long, with so much that has changed as well it is an uphill battle for the both of them.
This story was so captivating, beautiful and magical and yet so dark. This is an amazing take on such a classic tale of Neverland and Captain Hook. I cannot wait for the next installment of the series because it ends on a MASSIVE cliffhanger. If you are going to dive into this one I highly suggest you have your tissues close.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the author Evelyn Flood for the ARC!*
August 18, 2025
I loved this so much!!
I haven't been reading a lot of romantasy lately because my last few reads have been fallen kind of flat for me but this made me fall back in love with the genre
My favourite thing about the book was the setting - I haven't loved a fanasy world this much in a while. I liked Selene a lot and although I'm usually not the biggest fan of Golden retriever mmcs, Callan was the sweetest and now I love him.
Also the found family vibes in this one were immaculate.
I did like the first two thirds of the book better, simply because I loved the plot on the ship so much. The last third is very action packed though, which I also loved.
Definitely hyped for part two!!
Big thanks to netgalley, the publisher and the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't been reading a lot of romantasy lately because my last few reads have been fallen kind of flat for me but this made me fall back in love with the genre
My favourite thing about the book was the setting - I haven't loved a fanasy world this much in a while. I liked Selene a lot and although I'm usually not the biggest fan of Golden retriever mmcs, Callan was the sweetest and now I love him.
Also the found family vibes in this one were immaculate.
I did like the first two thirds of the book better, simply because I loved the plot on the ship so much. The last third is very action packed though, which I also loved.
Definitely hyped for part two!!
Big thanks to netgalley, the publisher and the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2025
I absolutely loved Kept by Evelyn Flood and when I was given the chance to get my hands on Stars above the never sea I literally couldn’t wait. Maybe I went into this with too high hopes and not enough background knowledge of the genre, but I really struggled to connect to the book for the first few chapters (until aboard the ship). I think this was particularly to do with the main character not having a name right at the beginning of the story. Anyway, thankfully this got better.
Selene is the last of her kind and she’s been put through the wringer. When given the opportunity she escapes and boards a ship to cross the never sea. That’s where she meets the captain, Callan. He has rules if she wants a ride and there’s more to this tale than it seems.
Selene and Callan have great chemistry - this is where the true connection to this story lies for me. It’s a hook/tinkerbell inspired story and the setting on the boat was magical.
This is just the beginning and there’s more to come.
Selene is the last of her kind and she’s been put through the wringer. When given the opportunity she escapes and boards a ship to cross the never sea. That’s where she meets the captain, Callan. He has rules if she wants a ride and there’s more to this tale than it seems.
Selene and Callan have great chemistry - this is where the true connection to this story lies for me. It’s a hook/tinkerbell inspired story and the setting on the boat was magical.
This is just the beginning and there’s more to come.
July 10, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The emotional turmoil this put me through, the gut wrenching ending.
If you’ve ever wanted a story for Hook & Tinkerbell to fall in love, this is the most perfect, heartfelt love story. Pirates, faeries, gods, a complex magic system, and an awful cliff hanger all wrapped up with a nice little bow!
If you’ve ever wanted a story for Hook & Tinkerbell to fall in love, this is the most perfect, heartfelt love story. Pirates, faeries, gods, a complex magic system, and an awful cliff hanger all wrapped up with a nice little bow!
July 21, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Evelyn Flood for the ARC copy.
Selene Amaris is a faeyte, and the last of her kind. The faeytes were a group of peaceful acolytes made in the goddess Hala’s image gifted with maegis from the Goddess herself to help others. Ten years ago, their island Asteria was wiped out by the Caelumnai, another group of people gifted with maegis from Hala’s lover, Caelum. Selene was the only one to escape. From that day of the great Shift, Selene has been enslaved and forced to work as a thing of pleasure for men to slowly save enough money to buy her freedom. When she’s betrayed she makes her escape and boards a mysterious ship. Little does she know, the ship is commanded by Callan, a powerful Caelumnai who is headed back to her homeland, Asteria. He is the only one who is able to cross the Never Sea, and the only one who may be able to give Selene and her people salvation.
I was immediately captivated by the beginning of this book. We are immediately thrown into chaos and experience the catalyst event that leads Selene to where she is now. She starts off as a badass, taking control of her situation and putting herself on a better path. I loved the action, the mystery, and the suspense of what will happen on this strange ship she has boarded and the world we have found ourselves in. We then meet Callan, and he has such a charisma about him that draws you in and leaves you wanting more. We meet his crew made of a hodgepodge group of people gifted with maegis that have bonded over the trauma of the Shift and whose loyalty to each other is stronger than blood.
All of the events leading to Selene being on the ship had me unable to put the book down, but after this the pacing changes and more plot lines develop without any answers that become confusing. The focus seems to shift from what Selene will find once back on Asteria, her revenge, and her powers and why she was chosen to be the last remaining faeyte to a superficial romance and a lot of filler scenes. I was really wanting full fall into this romance and this world but Callan quickly switches from a competent ship captain with rightful suspicion of her to his entire personality being about obsessing over Selene. I would have believed it more if they spent more time getting to know each other and slowly building trust but it doesn’t make sense why he is suddenly ready to die for her without really knowing who she is and what she will do once back on her homeland. It reads as if Callan found this enigma of the last faeyte and became infatuated with the idea of her rather than who she really is.
I was truly disappointed with how the rest of the story flowed. I was ready for Selene and crew to really dive into getting Asteria back and forming a plan to get rid of Petyr or a way to save Asteria and the innocent people living there, but again the majority of the rest of the book is Selene and Callan having the hots for each other with tidbits of plot. There were moments where the main characters were on the verge of finding out something crucial or getting an answer to a myriad of questions and then they get distracted by romance. It was frustrating at points because it happens every single time, but especially when the characters knew something bad was going on with Petyr and did nothing to figure out what it might be or actually making a plan of action. Selene bothered me the most. To me she had the most potential to really flip the script, especially from her characterization at the beginning. I could see her wanting to be honing her skills at flying and her maegis, and the rage-inducing injustice of what happened to her homeland and people (literally the body hanging from the gates of her home that she passed regularly in and out of the castle…) would have her on a mission, but again as soon as she was about to do something about it she was distracted with her feeling with Callan.
By the end, I was skimming the book. I wasn’t invested in the characters anymore after they failed to do much of anything, and the twist and cliff-hanger at the end was good but I was just so frustrated with how everything played out that I wasn’t interested. Even the characters realize how stupid they’ve been to not take any sort of action at the end. I would have been more satisfied if there was any payoff to any of the stakes presented throughout the story, but it was just hit after hit and the MCs never doing anything about it. I felt like the characters lost some of their personalities by the end and it was just very confusing understanding their motivations to not chase after any of these puzzle pieces after many of the major events taking place.
I think if the author cut out some of the fluff and rewarded the readers with more fleshed out plot, this would have been a higher rating for me. The bones of the story are excellent, but the execution lacked. I’m not sure if I will continue with the series, I hope in the future books of this series the characters have more agency to get things taken care of when they know they are in a bad situation. I do think this is worth a read and other readers may enjoy it more than I did, but how the characterization changed throughout the book wasn’t for me.
Selene Amaris is a faeyte, and the last of her kind. The faeytes were a group of peaceful acolytes made in the goddess Hala’s image gifted with maegis from the Goddess herself to help others. Ten years ago, their island Asteria was wiped out by the Caelumnai, another group of people gifted with maegis from Hala’s lover, Caelum. Selene was the only one to escape. From that day of the great Shift, Selene has been enslaved and forced to work as a thing of pleasure for men to slowly save enough money to buy her freedom. When she’s betrayed she makes her escape and boards a mysterious ship. Little does she know, the ship is commanded by Callan, a powerful Caelumnai who is headed back to her homeland, Asteria. He is the only one who is able to cross the Never Sea, and the only one who may be able to give Selene and her people salvation.
I was immediately captivated by the beginning of this book. We are immediately thrown into chaos and experience the catalyst event that leads Selene to where she is now. She starts off as a badass, taking control of her situation and putting herself on a better path. I loved the action, the mystery, and the suspense of what will happen on this strange ship she has boarded and the world we have found ourselves in. We then meet Callan, and he has such a charisma about him that draws you in and leaves you wanting more. We meet his crew made of a hodgepodge group of people gifted with maegis that have bonded over the trauma of the Shift and whose loyalty to each other is stronger than blood.
All of the events leading to Selene being on the ship had me unable to put the book down, but after this the pacing changes and more plot lines develop without any answers that become confusing. The focus seems to shift from what Selene will find once back on Asteria, her revenge, and her powers and why she was chosen to be the last remaining faeyte to a superficial romance and a lot of filler scenes. I was really wanting full fall into this romance and this world but Callan quickly switches from a competent ship captain with rightful suspicion of her to his entire personality being about obsessing over Selene. I would have believed it more if they spent more time getting to know each other and slowly building trust but it doesn’t make sense why he is suddenly ready to die for her without really knowing who she is and what she will do once back on her homeland. It reads as if Callan found this enigma of the last faeyte and became infatuated with the idea of her rather than who she really is.
I was truly disappointed with how the rest of the story flowed. I was ready for Selene and crew to really dive into getting Asteria back and forming a plan to get rid of Petyr or a way to save Asteria and the innocent people living there, but again the majority of the rest of the book is Selene and Callan having the hots for each other with tidbits of plot. There were moments where the main characters were on the verge of finding out something crucial or getting an answer to a myriad of questions and then they get distracted by romance. It was frustrating at points because it happens every single time, but especially when the characters knew something bad was going on with Petyr and did nothing to figure out what it might be or actually making a plan of action. Selene bothered me the most. To me she had the most potential to really flip the script, especially from her characterization at the beginning. I could see her wanting to be honing her skills at flying and her maegis, and the rage-inducing injustice of what happened to her homeland and people (literally the body hanging from the gates of her home that she passed regularly in and out of the castle…) would have her on a mission, but again as soon as she was about to do something about it she was distracted with her feeling with Callan.
By the end, I was skimming the book. I wasn’t invested in the characters anymore after they failed to do much of anything, and the twist and cliff-hanger at the end was good but I was just so frustrated with how everything played out that I wasn’t interested. Even the characters realize how stupid they’ve been to not take any sort of action at the end. I would have been more satisfied if there was any payoff to any of the stakes presented throughout the story, but it was just hit after hit and the MCs never doing anything about it. I felt like the characters lost some of their personalities by the end and it was just very confusing understanding their motivations to not chase after any of these puzzle pieces after many of the major events taking place.
I think if the author cut out some of the fluff and rewarded the readers with more fleshed out plot, this would have been a higher rating for me. The bones of the story are excellent, but the execution lacked. I’m not sure if I will continue with the series, I hope in the future books of this series the characters have more agency to get things taken care of when they know they are in a bad situation. I do think this is worth a read and other readers may enjoy it more than I did, but how the characterization changed throughout the book wasn’t for me.
July 8, 2025
5 FAT ⭐️
Thank you net galley and Evelyn Flood for this epic Romantasy.
I am completely blown away at this wild adventure.
Selene is a fayte, who is entering her ascension where her own fate will be read and she will receive her calling/gift. Upon her ceremony the land she lives on is invaded and genicide is committed. Selene fleas, running off a cliff where she then blacks out to awaken in a new world, taken and is sold into s3xual slavery. 10 years pass, and a ship arrives in the harbour.. a ship unlike any they have seen before because nobody is able to travel across the Never sea. Selene fleas, and escapes onto this ship where she is later found by Callan. Little does Selene know, but she’s met Callan before, and he’s been looking for her.
I loved this. I ate it up. The magic, world, plot and storyline is unique to what I’ve read before. This is a slow burn with really good tension. The found family is fantastic. Honourable mention to Leo, loved his little personality. The plot twists in this I was NOT expecting and there was ALOT. It was a roller coaster and I buckled up for the ride. I’m very much looking forward to book two and I HIGHLY recommend reading this.
I found the pacing to be excellent. It had depth, and darker content. I’m unsure how many pages this is where it’s an arc, it felt a little lengthy but I didn’t care because every aspect had my attention.
This book includes references to blood, gratuitous violence, forced indenture, s*xual assault and r*pe (off page but referenced), loss of siblings, loss of family members including parents, grief, child endangerment/danger to life, child abandonment, references to branding (off page), hanging, execution, torture and disfigurement, PTSD and anxiety, trauma, drowning, memory loss, mention of personal weight/weighing (in the context of balancing a ship load).
Releases July 30
Thank you net galley and Evelyn Flood for this epic Romantasy.
I am completely blown away at this wild adventure.
Selene is a fayte, who is entering her ascension where her own fate will be read and she will receive her calling/gift. Upon her ceremony the land she lives on is invaded and genicide is committed. Selene fleas, running off a cliff where she then blacks out to awaken in a new world, taken and is sold into s3xual slavery. 10 years pass, and a ship arrives in the harbour.. a ship unlike any they have seen before because nobody is able to travel across the Never sea. Selene fleas, and escapes onto this ship where she is later found by Callan. Little does Selene know, but she’s met Callan before, and he’s been looking for her.
I loved this. I ate it up. The magic, world, plot and storyline is unique to what I’ve read before. This is a slow burn with really good tension. The found family is fantastic. Honourable mention to Leo, loved his little personality. The plot twists in this I was NOT expecting and there was ALOT. It was a roller coaster and I buckled up for the ride. I’m very much looking forward to book two and I HIGHLY recommend reading this.
I found the pacing to be excellent. It had depth, and darker content. I’m unsure how many pages this is where it’s an arc, it felt a little lengthy but I didn’t care because every aspect had my attention.
This book includes references to blood, gratuitous violence, forced indenture, s*xual assault and r*pe (off page but referenced), loss of siblings, loss of family members including parents, grief, child endangerment/danger to life, child abandonment, references to branding (off page), hanging, execution, torture and disfigurement, PTSD and anxiety, trauma, drowning, memory loss, mention of personal weight/weighing (in the context of balancing a ship load).
Releases July 30
July 19, 2025
Thank you so much NetGalley and Evelyn for the Arc, my very first one! ☺️🫶🏼
Overall, I really enjoyed this book!
❤️ I enjoyed: the plot was good, hooked me from the start and I literally couldn’t put down the book from 50% onwards and I finished it on my long haul flight to Canada. One of my favourite scenes was dinner at the town house. It was giving ACOTAR dinner in Velaris at House of Wind. I love the found family, the way they risk everything for each other. Also, that ending was WILD. I’m waiting for the next book to be released (before this one first comes out!)
🖤 Not super love: the magic system was a little difficult to understand at the start. I was very lost for the first whole 2 chapters. The character names were a little difficult to follow too because some of them had different nicknames and abbreviated names.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book!
❤️ I enjoyed: the plot was good, hooked me from the start and I literally couldn’t put down the book from 50% onwards and I finished it on my long haul flight to Canada. One of my favourite scenes was dinner at the town house. It was giving ACOTAR dinner in Velaris at House of Wind. I love the found family, the way they risk everything for each other. Also, that ending was WILD. I’m waiting for the next book to be released (before this one first comes out!)
🖤 Not super love: the magic system was a little difficult to understand at the start. I was very lost for the first whole 2 chapters. The character names were a little difficult to follow too because some of them had different nicknames and abbreviated names.
August 26, 2025
Sometimes I hate the fact that I can read. That was just devastating. 5 stars.
September 5, 2025
*Arc review*
Wow, what the fk was that ending lol I mean now we have to wait and I can't because I need to know......
Where do I start?
I loved this book, the journey of the FMC had me in my feels from the prologue. She went through and then some.
The magic system was just different and delightful.
And when I say the MMC would crawl to her...
He blinking did, wow what a love story this also is and what a man, one of my favourite couples I've read about this year.
Thank you Netgalley, the publishers and the Author for this opportunity, yet again another book I enjoyed
Wow, what the fk was that ending lol I mean now we have to wait and I can't because I need to know......
Where do I start?
I loved this book, the journey of the FMC had me in my feels from the prologue. She went through and then some.
The magic system was just different and delightful.
And when I say the MMC would crawl to her...
He blinking did, wow what a love story this also is and what a man, one of my favourite couples I've read about this year.
Thank you Netgalley, the publishers and the Author for this opportunity, yet again another book I enjoyed
August 30, 2025
This book has become easily one of my favorites of the year!
Whenever I see mentions of Captain Hook, my interest peaks immediately. This is what happened when I first found out about this book. And then I read the premise, and I just knew this was going to be amazing. I’m so happy to say now that my instinct did not stir me wrong.
Stars Above the Never Sea is the first book in a brand new romantasy series inspired by Hook and Tink! As far as ships go, this is one that has always intrigued me. The story follows Selene and Callan. She is a winged FMC who has been ensl@ved for 10 years following the demise of her people, and she’s also been cursed by her goddess not to fall in love. Now she’s being taken back to her homeland in the cargo of Captain Callan's ship.
The vibes of the book are immaculate from the very first chapter, in which you see what befalls the faeyte and, later, find out what has become of Selene. Needless to say, my heart shattered. I don’t know if I could have endured what Selene lives through. And yet she endures, and the horror she survives has made her into a tough woman with a will of steel.
The characters are amazing, and I loved the found family dynamic within Callan’s crew. They have such a fun banter! But I especially LOVED Selene and Callan. Callan, who is a Caelumnai, the people that ten years earlier had massacred the faeyte, Selene’s people. Callan is the man everyone deserves, a golden retriever who will also end anyone who dares hurt the people he loves. He and Selene are opposites, and yet the perfect match, and their relationship is built with the perfect pace. Slowly, and so so beautifully. You can see the trust build between them.
Here are some tropes!
☠️ green flag MMC with a touch her and streak
🐈⬛ Black cat x golden retriever energy
🦋 She has shadow magic and wings
💕 He falls first and hard
⚔️ Vengeful gods
🫂 Found family
🌊 A sea made of actual starlight
Rating 4.5⭐️
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
Whenever I see mentions of Captain Hook, my interest peaks immediately. This is what happened when I first found out about this book. And then I read the premise, and I just knew this was going to be amazing. I’m so happy to say now that my instinct did not stir me wrong.
Stars Above the Never Sea is the first book in a brand new romantasy series inspired by Hook and Tink! As far as ships go, this is one that has always intrigued me. The story follows Selene and Callan. She is a winged FMC who has been ensl@ved for 10 years following the demise of her people, and she’s also been cursed by her goddess not to fall in love. Now she’s being taken back to her homeland in the cargo of Captain Callan's ship.
The vibes of the book are immaculate from the very first chapter, in which you see what befalls the faeyte and, later, find out what has become of Selene. Needless to say, my heart shattered. I don’t know if I could have endured what Selene lives through. And yet she endures, and the horror she survives has made her into a tough woman with a will of steel.
The characters are amazing, and I loved the found family dynamic within Callan’s crew. They have such a fun banter! But I especially LOVED Selene and Callan. Callan, who is a Caelumnai, the people that ten years earlier had massacred the faeyte, Selene’s people. Callan is the man everyone deserves, a golden retriever who will also end anyone who dares hurt the people he loves. He and Selene are opposites, and yet the perfect match, and their relationship is built with the perfect pace. Slowly, and so so beautifully. You can see the trust build between them.
Here are some tropes!
☠️ green flag MMC with a touch her and streak
🐈⬛ Black cat x golden retriever energy
🦋 She has shadow magic and wings
💕 He falls first and hard
⚔️ Vengeful gods
🫂 Found family
🌊 A sea made of actual starlight
Rating 4.5⭐️
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
July 24, 2025
Stars Above the Never Sea is an immersive fantasy with gritty sea merchants and just enough magic to keep you enchanted. The blend of fantasy and nautical adventure gave me Fable meets Grishaverse vibes, while still feeling unique and wholly it's own. I loved how the worldbuilding unfolded naturally through storytelling and dialogue. It felt like I was discovering the setting alongside the heroine, which worked beautifully with the seafaring atmosphere.
Selene and Callan are older protagonists, which I appreciated, though their tone and behavior occasionally leaned more toward a new adult feel. Their romance is a steady slow burn—not overly dramatic or swoony, but believable and earned. What stood out even more to me was the found family and casual queer rep, which gave the story real heart. While I wished for a deeper exploration of Selene’s trauma and a slightly stronger emotional spark between the leads, the emotional payoff and action at the end pulled me right back in. Despite a few slow stretches in the middle, this was a compelling, atmospheric read—and I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next.
Selene and Callan are older protagonists, which I appreciated, though their tone and behavior occasionally leaned more toward a new adult feel. Their romance is a steady slow burn—not overly dramatic or swoony, but believable and earned. What stood out even more to me was the found family and casual queer rep, which gave the story real heart. While I wished for a deeper exploration of Selene’s trauma and a slightly stronger emotional spark between the leads, the emotional payoff and action at the end pulled me right back in. Despite a few slow stretches in the middle, this was a compelling, atmospheric read—and I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next.
July 11, 2025
This story is gripping from beginning to end.
Evelyn Flood did a spectacular job detailing this world and the characters in it.
There's so many lessons. Empathy, vengeance, forgiveness, friendships, and love. This story is filled to the brim with emotions.
There is no character untouched by loss and heartbreak. And they do not all cope the same way. I loved all the characters. The main characters, supporting, and even the villains. And I don't mean I like the villains themselves, I just think theyre written perfectly evil to hit their mark.
This is a series I will definitely be following up with. I need to know what happens next.
Evelyn Flood did a spectacular job detailing this world and the characters in it.
There's so many lessons. Empathy, vengeance, forgiveness, friendships, and love. This story is filled to the brim with emotions.
There is no character untouched by loss and heartbreak. And they do not all cope the same way. I loved all the characters. The main characters, supporting, and even the villains. And I don't mean I like the villains themselves, I just think theyre written perfectly evil to hit their mark.
This is a series I will definitely be following up with. I need to know what happens next.
July 20, 2025
Let's talk about "Stars Above the Never Sea" by Evelyn Flood...
"...because faeytes did not love."
I absolutely LOVED this book. The characters, the found family, the lore, the magic system, the world building....the entire plot rolled into a high fantasy that pulled you in and made you second guess what was going to happen next.
The emotional turmoil I felt as Selene Amaris, our tragic FMC, had her entire world shattered on the day of her Ascension. As her world burns and blood is shed, she becomes the last known Faeyte, no longer able to know her own fate, or to know what her true calling is. Ripped from the family she only knew, she runs like the wind, leaving her world behind...until ten years later, when she finally comes home to Asteria.
Callan Edgewood is our cinnamon roll of an MMC is part of the Caelumnai, a group of people who came to Asteria looking for a new home. Or so was told... He and his ragtag of merry people are gathering resources in Terrosa to take back to Asteria. His people are starving, and the Never Sea has kept them from leaving and finding a new home. It's not due to trying, but Callan and the rest of the those who wield the maegis, are at odds with the evil lurking at home, and little does Selene know it - but she might be the key to saving them all.
The slowest of slow burns, the epic telling of lore that I ate right up. The world building - where the stars and the sea collide and the darkness can last forever. This book was so wonderfully written, giving life to complex characters, with a focus on how grief and trauma can mold and create a person to who they may or might become. The fates of people's lives can change with one little push or be kept in dark corners, never to be read. I am so in need of book two and cannot wait to continue this journey with Selene and Callan.
Thank you to NetGalley and Evelyn Flood for my open and honest review.
✨ Touch her and die
✨ PTSD, trauma, and mental health rep
✨ Found family
✨ World building
✨ Epic Lore & Storytelling
✨ Magic wielding
✨ Forced Proximity
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥 .5
Series: Book 1
"...because faeytes did not love."
I absolutely LOVED this book. The characters, the found family, the lore, the magic system, the world building....the entire plot rolled into a high fantasy that pulled you in and made you second guess what was going to happen next.
The emotional turmoil I felt as Selene Amaris, our tragic FMC, had her entire world shattered on the day of her Ascension. As her world burns and blood is shed, she becomes the last known Faeyte, no longer able to know her own fate, or to know what her true calling is. Ripped from the family she only knew, she runs like the wind, leaving her world behind...until ten years later, when she finally comes home to Asteria.
Callan Edgewood is our cinnamon roll of an MMC is part of the Caelumnai, a group of people who came to Asteria looking for a new home. Or so was told... He and his ragtag of merry people are gathering resources in Terrosa to take back to Asteria. His people are starving, and the Never Sea has kept them from leaving and finding a new home. It's not due to trying, but Callan and the rest of the those who wield the maegis, are at odds with the evil lurking at home, and little does Selene know it - but she might be the key to saving them all.
The slowest of slow burns, the epic telling of lore that I ate right up. The world building - where the stars and the sea collide and the darkness can last forever. This book was so wonderfully written, giving life to complex characters, with a focus on how grief and trauma can mold and create a person to who they may or might become. The fates of people's lives can change with one little push or be kept in dark corners, never to be read. I am so in need of book two and cannot wait to continue this journey with Selene and Callan.
Thank you to NetGalley and Evelyn Flood for my open and honest review.
✨ Touch her and die
✨ PTSD, trauma, and mental health rep
✨ Found family
✨ World building
✨ Epic Lore & Storytelling
✨ Magic wielding
✨ Forced Proximity
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥 .5
Series: Book 1
July 12, 2025
thanks to netgalley and the publisher for granting me ARC access!
I took away a star for each unforgivable act this book committed. 1. opens up with a brutal genocide and the sole survivor living in sex slavery for 10 years. hey! thats not fun. would have preferred literally anything else have happened to her in those 10 years like she couldn't have just been locked up somewhere? idk im very sensitive to human trafficking and the first part of this book almost made me stop altogether. 2. there was too much happening with the magic systems and the mysteries and the gods and fate and I just felt like there were so many plot holes and things that got ignored for sake of thats how the story plays out. the main character basically doesnt try to figure anything out when she makes it back to her home and relies on her random magic to lead her. 3. ended on the biggest bitch of a cliffhanger without even a hint of happiness truly just a horrendous ending. so ultimately very little joy to be found in the book besides the rare moments characters eke out that have the most ominous chekhovs gun lurking in the background.
I think there are interesting parts to this story but if this is the story the author wanted to tell I think the book needed to be longer with more care given to character development, there was some attempt and I found the voices of characters string but there just wasn't much growth besides the romance aspect which I dont love given how recently the main character fled sex slavery! Feels like she should get a minute. idk i think this book has a lot of potential and if other people are able to look past the things that bothered me they would likely enjoy it! wasn't my cup of tea in the end. very vivid imagery and strong author voice, the writing and prose itself weren't a problem i am just not a fan of how the plot shook out.
I took away a star for each unforgivable act this book committed. 1. opens up with a brutal genocide and the sole survivor living in sex slavery for 10 years. hey! thats not fun. would have preferred literally anything else have happened to her in those 10 years like she couldn't have just been locked up somewhere? idk im very sensitive to human trafficking and the first part of this book almost made me stop altogether. 2. there was too much happening with the magic systems and the mysteries and the gods and fate and I just felt like there were so many plot holes and things that got ignored for sake of thats how the story plays out. the main character basically doesnt try to figure anything out when she makes it back to her home and relies on her random magic to lead her. 3. ended on the biggest bitch of a cliffhanger without even a hint of happiness truly just a horrendous ending. so ultimately very little joy to be found in the book besides the rare moments characters eke out that have the most ominous chekhovs gun lurking in the background.
I think there are interesting parts to this story but if this is the story the author wanted to tell I think the book needed to be longer with more care given to character development, there was some attempt and I found the voices of characters string but there just wasn't much growth besides the romance aspect which I dont love given how recently the main character fled sex slavery! Feels like she should get a minute. idk i think this book has a lot of potential and if other people are able to look past the things that bothered me they would likely enjoy it! wasn't my cup of tea in the end. very vivid imagery and strong author voice, the writing and prose itself weren't a problem i am just not a fan of how the plot shook out.
November 18, 2025
I have to start this by saying that I was TERRIFIED to start this book once I saw who the author was. Out of 175+ books that I've read, I've only genuinely hated 2 - one of which was by Evelyn Flood. That said, I was drawn to the cover of this and signed up immediately on NetGalley after reading the blurb. I didn't even look at who wrote it. Once I got the acceptance email, I was so tempted to just not read it to avoid an experience like what I previously had with the author, but I gave it a shot, and I'm so glad I did.
This story is so unique compared to all other romantasy books I've read, and I found myself unable to put it down. I was thinking about it in between reads and wondering what was going to happen. I love the magic in this story and the faeytes. Everything unraveled so beautifully, and it was such an amazing reading experience!!! Our 2 mains, Selene and Callan, are so cute, and their romance was not overdone or cringy ever. All of the side characters were equally amazing. I loved every second of this story. It was emotionally heavy, and a lot was going on, but there were also times where the main characters kind of ignored some signs where I just wanted to yell at them!
I'm genuinely mad that I have to wait for book 2, because that was one of maybe 3 cliffhangers that actually upset me and made me want to read the next book immediately. I can’t believe how much I loved this book, and I will 100% be buying a physical copy and hyped it TF up!!!
Also, who TF kidnapped her in the beginning? They never even looked into that, and I must know 🤔
Thank you NetGalley for the e-ARC. This was incredible!
This story is so unique compared to all other romantasy books I've read, and I found myself unable to put it down. I was thinking about it in between reads and wondering what was going to happen. I love the magic in this story and the faeytes. Everything unraveled so beautifully, and it was such an amazing reading experience!!! Our 2 mains, Selene and Callan, are so cute, and their romance was not overdone or cringy ever. All of the side characters were equally amazing. I loved every second of this story. It was emotionally heavy, and a lot was going on, but there were also times where the main characters kind of ignored some signs where I just wanted to yell at them!
I'm genuinely mad that I have to wait for book 2, because that was one of maybe 3 cliffhangers that actually upset me and made me want to read the next book immediately. I can’t believe how much I loved this book, and I will 100% be buying a physical copy and hyped it TF up!!!
Also, who TF kidnapped her in the beginning? They never even looked into that, and I must know 🤔
Thank you NetGalley for the e-ARC. This was incredible!
August 18, 2025
Big Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
'Stars above the Never Sea' is the first book of the 'The Last Faeyte' series and is a fantasy adventure with a love story to boot.
The story is narrated through a double POV, with interesting characters and an endearing crew who were the heart and soul of the book.
The fantasy, in addition, was complex and had depth, as well as offering a lot of emotional scenes. However, there were some parts of the whole universe that weren't well explained or were overlapping, but they were few and could easily be overlooked.
The romance, moreover, was enjoyable and it didn't overshadow the fantasy and worldbuilding. Actually, it wasn't the focus of the plot, therefore, the romantic scenes felt more organic and less forced. However, I didn't like the Cal's persistence on the emotional ability of Selene, but I liked how she was putting him back in his place and pointed out her needs, especially since her trauma was so deep and complex that it would have been odd to have her 'healed' too quickly in order to advance the romance.
Also, there were parts in the narration that needed some editing, but this could be my ARC fault and the final print was corrected.
'Stars above the Never Sea' is the first book of the 'The Last Faeyte' series and is a fantasy adventure with a love story to boot.
The story is narrated through a double POV, with interesting characters and an endearing crew who were the heart and soul of the book.
The fantasy, in addition, was complex and had depth, as well as offering a lot of emotional scenes. However, there were some parts of the whole universe that weren't well explained or were overlapping, but they were few and could easily be overlooked.
The romance, moreover, was enjoyable and it didn't overshadow the fantasy and worldbuilding. Actually, it wasn't the focus of the plot, therefore, the romantic scenes felt more organic and less forced. However, I didn't like the Cal's persistence on the emotional ability of Selene, but I liked how she was putting him back in his place and pointed out her needs, especially since her trauma was so deep and complex that it would have been odd to have her 'healed' too quickly in order to advance the romance.
Also, there were parts in the narration that needed some editing, but this could be my ARC fault and the final print was corrected.
August 4, 2025
2.5/3 ⭐️’s
I was so excited to read Stars Above the Never Sea but unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me. Maybe it’s not for me at this moment, because the premise was so intriguing to me.
For whatever reason I just couldn’t connect to the characters, Selene in particular, even though I wanted to be on her team and root for her I didn’t end up clicking with her. Callan was interesting, and I do love a more golden retriever type mmc, but again I just didn’t click enough with him.
I struggled with the world building and magic system, but I think that had more to do with me not being invested enough in the characters and overall story. I think if I’d had more of an attachment to the world it would have been fine.
Big thank you to Evelyn Flood and NetGalley for the chance to ARC read this!
I was so excited to read Stars Above the Never Sea but unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me. Maybe it’s not for me at this moment, because the premise was so intriguing to me.
For whatever reason I just couldn’t connect to the characters, Selene in particular, even though I wanted to be on her team and root for her I didn’t end up clicking with her. Callan was interesting, and I do love a more golden retriever type mmc, but again I just didn’t click enough with him.
I struggled with the world building and magic system, but I think that had more to do with me not being invested enough in the characters and overall story. I think if I’d had more of an attachment to the world it would have been fine.
Big thank you to Evelyn Flood and NetGalley for the chance to ARC read this!
July 8, 2025
3⭐️ 1🌶️
Stars Above the Never Sea was an interesting start to the series! I really enjoyed the concept of the world and found the plot to be captivating.
Some of the pacing was uneven though, especially at the beginning and about two-thirds of the way through. A lot of the story was spent traveling, and there were some parts that felt a little unnecessary to the story as a whole.
The cliffhanger at the end was fun and the end was different than where I thought the story was going so that was unique and nice to read. Overall I enjoyed it!
TROPES
The chosen one
Found Family
He falls first & he falls hard
Choosing your own fate
Feminine rage
Reluctant allies to friends to lovers
THE WORLD
I think the world is by far the best part of this story! The magic system was really easy to learn and wasn’t overly complex. I loved the concept of the Never, and the sky actually falling. The imagery was so good for that part!
THE CHARACTERS
Character development was good for the first book. The MCs had good backstories and strong motivations for their actions. I wanted more from the side characters though, as some of them blended together and became hard to differentiate from one another.
THE ROMANCE
There wasn’t much depth to the romance - it felt more like the proximity of Callan and Selene is what gave them feelings for one another rather than actual chemistry or deep conversations getting to know one another. Some part of the romance was lacking to me and made it feel like they were better suited as friends. Honestly, I was definitely considering other characters as prospective partners for Selene because of this, most notably Esme because they had more chemistry and deeper conversations than she had with Callan.
*please note that quotes are from an Advanced Readers Copy. Please refer to the final publication for official quotes*
QUOTES:
"Own your fear. Hold onto it. But do not let it own you. Take hold of it, and embrace it. Remember that darkness is only the absence of light, and you are made of light itself."
"You were right."
Glazed eyes meet mine as I suck in a shuddering breath. But I don't look away. Instead, I lean forward, making sure he can see my face.
Making sure it's the last thing he sees.
And my voice, when it comes, is ice and rage and death. "I am exactly what you made me."
"People always fear what they can't be bothered to understand."
"I tried." I whisper the confession as the pain recedes, just for a moment. "And I failed. They won."
Callan takes a breath. We stare at each other. I close my eyes as his other hand lifts, rests in my hair. He runs his fingers through it, gruff words filtering through the lingering pain. "Then you will try again. Perhaps you'll fail again. But you do not stop trying, or they win. As long as you keep fighting, the battle is undecided. This battle is not won yet. But it is not lost, either."
"I can still have empathy for your loss, while grieving my own. Grief touches us all, one way or another. It would be foolish to believe that mine somehow means more than yours, no matter how it occurred."
QUOTES: THE ROMANCE
“Give me more of this. Whatever this may be, I want more.
Let him chase the darkness away.
Because whenever I am near him, all I seem to feel is light.”
"You know what I want."
Friends.
That is what he said. That was the game.
Except this no longer feels like a game to me. And I wonder if perhaps Callan has been playing a different game this entire time, simply waiting quietly for me to
catch up.”
"I fell in love when I saw you ready yourself to fight on the day of the Shift. With no weapons, no armor, flowers in your hair. You made me so unsteady that I followed you, and when I thought I had failed, I spent ten years mourning the loss of who you might have been." Beneath my cheek, tears trail down his skin, his neck.
"And then I found you again." His hand cups the back of my head, comforting even as his words break and tremble. "As if fate had placed you back in my path for a reason. I have never given much concern for fate, Selene, but you make me believe in something bigger than us.
Because I found you again, and every dream I thought I had shattered beneath the reality of you."
"I told you I intend to give you everything."
Her lips press to my chest…
I fight for breath. "And I would be... gods. Grateful."
I'd crawl for a single fucking smile.”
Stars Above the Never Sea was an interesting start to the series! I really enjoyed the concept of the world and found the plot to be captivating.
Some of the pacing was uneven though, especially at the beginning and about two-thirds of the way through. A lot of the story was spent traveling, and there were some parts that felt a little unnecessary to the story as a whole.
The cliffhanger at the end was fun and the end was different than where I thought the story was going so that was unique and nice to read. Overall I enjoyed it!
TROPES
The chosen one
Found Family
He falls first & he falls hard
Choosing your own fate
Feminine rage
Reluctant allies to friends to lovers
THE WORLD
I think the world is by far the best part of this story! The magic system was really easy to learn and wasn’t overly complex. I loved the concept of the Never, and the sky actually falling. The imagery was so good for that part!
THE CHARACTERS
Character development was good for the first book. The MCs had good backstories and strong motivations for their actions. I wanted more from the side characters though, as some of them blended together and became hard to differentiate from one another.
THE ROMANCE
There wasn’t much depth to the romance - it felt more like the proximity of Callan and Selene is what gave them feelings for one another rather than actual chemistry or deep conversations getting to know one another. Some part of the romance was lacking to me and made it feel like they were better suited as friends. Honestly, I was definitely considering other characters as prospective partners for Selene because of this, most notably Esme because they had more chemistry and deeper conversations than she had with Callan.
*please note that quotes are from an Advanced Readers Copy. Please refer to the final publication for official quotes*
QUOTES:
"Own your fear. Hold onto it. But do not let it own you. Take hold of it, and embrace it. Remember that darkness is only the absence of light, and you are made of light itself."
"You were right."
Glazed eyes meet mine as I suck in a shuddering breath. But I don't look away. Instead, I lean forward, making sure he can see my face.
Making sure it's the last thing he sees.
And my voice, when it comes, is ice and rage and death. "I am exactly what you made me."
"People always fear what they can't be bothered to understand."
"I tried." I whisper the confession as the pain recedes, just for a moment. "And I failed. They won."
Callan takes a breath. We stare at each other. I close my eyes as his other hand lifts, rests in my hair. He runs his fingers through it, gruff words filtering through the lingering pain. "Then you will try again. Perhaps you'll fail again. But you do not stop trying, or they win. As long as you keep fighting, the battle is undecided. This battle is not won yet. But it is not lost, either."
"I can still have empathy for your loss, while grieving my own. Grief touches us all, one way or another. It would be foolish to believe that mine somehow means more than yours, no matter how it occurred."
QUOTES: THE ROMANCE
“Give me more of this. Whatever this may be, I want more.
Let him chase the darkness away.
Because whenever I am near him, all I seem to feel is light.”
"You know what I want."
Friends.
That is what he said. That was the game.
Except this no longer feels like a game to me. And I wonder if perhaps Callan has been playing a different game this entire time, simply waiting quietly for me to
catch up.”
"I fell in love when I saw you ready yourself to fight on the day of the Shift. With no weapons, no armor, flowers in your hair. You made me so unsteady that I followed you, and when I thought I had failed, I spent ten years mourning the loss of who you might have been." Beneath my cheek, tears trail down his skin, his neck.
"And then I found you again." His hand cups the back of my head, comforting even as his words break and tremble. "As if fate had placed you back in my path for a reason. I have never given much concern for fate, Selene, but you make me believe in something bigger than us.
Because I found you again, and every dream I thought I had shattered beneath the reality of you."
"I told you I intend to give you everything."
Her lips press to my chest…
I fight for breath. "And I would be... gods. Grateful."
I'd crawl for a single fucking smile.”
July 8, 2025
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
Evelyn Flood, what have you done to me?!
This incredible pirate romantasy novel has it all. It has heart, warmth, action, destruction, trauma. Our FMC is a faeyte, due to make her ascension when Asteria is invaded by the Caelumni. Her sisters give her her name, Selene Amaris, before begging her to run for her life. Years later, Callan Edgeborn and his crew are in Terrosa, making a supply run on his ship Volatus, when Selene escapes her indentured labour, and finds herself mysteriously locked in the ship's cargo hold. What happened on the day she escaped Asteria begins to be revealed to Selene, and the horrors continue to unfold as she, Callan and his crew cross the Never back to Asteria. Bonds are formed, and Selene warms to the idea that she may be able to repair the damage wreaked by the Gods on the day of the invasion when they arrive back in Asteria. But nothing is ever so simple in romantasy, is it? 😉
I can't tell you just how much I loved this book. The pacing is fantastic, and the worldbuilding is magnificent - the revealing of the world outside of the brothel where Selene has been a slave for so many years comes to us as it does to her, so we feel the shock just as she does. The imagery is vivid, and the characters are so vibrant. Each is so distinct and uniquely them, there is no blurring of one character into another. The relationships are strong and there is so much love between Callan and his crew. Be prepared to fall heavily in love with these characters! The villain of the piece is well crafted, with the reveal of his true nature an absolute popcorn spilling moment. The final chapter - absolutely DEVASTATING. The wait for part two may well destroy my nerves. Absolutely wonderful stuff.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
Evelyn Flood, what have you done to me?!
This incredible pirate romantasy novel has it all. It has heart, warmth, action, destruction, trauma. Our FMC is a faeyte, due to make her ascension when Asteria is invaded by the Caelumni. Her sisters give her her name, Selene Amaris, before begging her to run for her life. Years later, Callan Edgeborn and his crew are in Terrosa, making a supply run on his ship Volatus, when Selene escapes her indentured labour, and finds herself mysteriously locked in the ship's cargo hold. What happened on the day she escaped Asteria begins to be revealed to Selene, and the horrors continue to unfold as she, Callan and his crew cross the Never back to Asteria. Bonds are formed, and Selene warms to the idea that she may be able to repair the damage wreaked by the Gods on the day of the invasion when they arrive back in Asteria. But nothing is ever so simple in romantasy, is it? 😉
I can't tell you just how much I loved this book. The pacing is fantastic, and the worldbuilding is magnificent - the revealing of the world outside of the brothel where Selene has been a slave for so many years comes to us as it does to her, so we feel the shock just as she does. The imagery is vivid, and the characters are so vibrant. Each is so distinct and uniquely them, there is no blurring of one character into another. The relationships are strong and there is so much love between Callan and his crew. Be prepared to fall heavily in love with these characters! The villain of the piece is well crafted, with the reveal of his true nature an absolute popcorn spilling moment. The final chapter - absolutely DEVASTATING. The wait for part two may well destroy my nerves. Absolutely wonderful stuff.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
dnf
July 31, 2025DNF @ 67%
I pushed through as far as I did because I was lucky enough to receive an ARC, and I feel bad DNFing—especially when, based on other reviews, this seems to be pretty well-received so far—but I think this was just not for me.
I could see the vision and the potential, but I wasn’t able to connect with the story or the characters, and I found that I didn’t care all that much about what happened to them.
The writing skewed more YA in my opinion—which is not a bad thing but not what I reach for these days—and could have benefited from some smoothing out. And I found the world-building and magic system to be underdeveloped.
The characters weren’t especially captivating, and their relationships between one another felt unearned. The FMC was overly trusting given the circumstances, and no one had to really work to gain her friendship/trust. She also wasn’t nearly as curious or inquisitive as you might expect of someone returning to a homeland they haven’t seen or even heard about in years and now know nothing about. She sort of just coasts along, passively receiving information as it's offered to her rather than proactively seeking answers.
The romance was lackluster as well. The MMCs affection for the FMC seemed unfounded, and the progressions of their relationship didn’t feel believable. They had no foundation to build on aside from some light forced proximity. His possessiveness and obsession with her sort of spikes out of nowhere, abruptly jumping from “I want to help you because it’s the right thing to do” to “I will literally kill for you.” There needed to be more chemistry, depth, and meaningful conversations before that leap.
Ultimately I just wasn’t invested in these characters and their journey. I do think this book will find its audience, but unfortunately it’s not me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Evelyn Flood for providing me with a copy of this book for review consideration.
I pushed through as far as I did because I was lucky enough to receive an ARC, and I feel bad DNFing—especially when, based on other reviews, this seems to be pretty well-received so far—but I think this was just not for me.
I could see the vision and the potential, but I wasn’t able to connect with the story or the characters, and I found that I didn’t care all that much about what happened to them.
The writing skewed more YA in my opinion—which is not a bad thing but not what I reach for these days—and could have benefited from some smoothing out. And I found the world-building and magic system to be underdeveloped.
The characters weren’t especially captivating, and their relationships between one another felt unearned. The FMC was overly trusting given the circumstances, and no one had to really work to gain her friendship/trust. She also wasn’t nearly as curious or inquisitive as you might expect of someone returning to a homeland they haven’t seen or even heard about in years and now know nothing about. She sort of just coasts along, passively receiving information as it's offered to her rather than proactively seeking answers.
The romance was lackluster as well. The MMCs affection for the FMC seemed unfounded, and the progressions of their relationship didn’t feel believable. They had no foundation to build on aside from some light forced proximity. His possessiveness and obsession with her sort of spikes out of nowhere, abruptly jumping from “I want to help you because it’s the right thing to do” to “I will literally kill for you.” There needed to be more chemistry, depth, and meaningful conversations before that leap.
Ultimately I just wasn’t invested in these characters and their journey. I do think this book will find its audience, but unfortunately it’s not me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Evelyn Flood for providing me with a copy of this book for review consideration.
August 4, 2025
5 ⭐️ AND MORE
I’m not okay. I just finished this book and I’m sitting here in tears. Those final chapters were absolutely soul destroying. Evelyn Flood how dare you.
This was such a unique and emotionally powerful story … Selene is the last of her kind (a Faeyte) and her journey broke me in the best way. After years of being enslaved and forced to do unthinkable things, she finds herself a prisoner once again, this time aboard a ship captained by Callan. And from there, everything unfolds in the most beautiful and painful way.
The first half of the book, where most of the story takes place at sea, was incredible. I loved the slow build, the mysterious world and the way we were introduced to Callan’s crew … who were incredible from the beginning. You can feel Selene slowly start to open up, even when she doesn’t want to, and it’s so satisfying to watch. The crew eventually become a part of her found family and I love them so much for it.
As for Callan, I really liked him, even if I couldn’t fully picture him in my head (weirdly rare for me but it didn’t ruin anything). He’s got that gruff, capable energy but there’s something deeper under the surface. Their dynamic is full of tension and tenderness and everything in between.
And then the second half hits and it’s like being punched in the heart. The devastation, the truth behind Selene’s past, the sacrifices made … I wasn’t ready. It’s layered with rage, grief and this deep, aching kind of love that feels like it might rip the sky open … I’m not over it.
I’m genuinely gutted there isn’t a sequel ready to go because I need more. I need to know what happens next. Evelyn Flood please release book two immediately or send help because I’m unwell haha
I’m not okay. I just finished this book and I’m sitting here in tears. Those final chapters were absolutely soul destroying. Evelyn Flood how dare you.
This was such a unique and emotionally powerful story … Selene is the last of her kind (a Faeyte) and her journey broke me in the best way. After years of being enslaved and forced to do unthinkable things, she finds herself a prisoner once again, this time aboard a ship captained by Callan. And from there, everything unfolds in the most beautiful and painful way.
The first half of the book, where most of the story takes place at sea, was incredible. I loved the slow build, the mysterious world and the way we were introduced to Callan’s crew … who were incredible from the beginning. You can feel Selene slowly start to open up, even when she doesn’t want to, and it’s so satisfying to watch. The crew eventually become a part of her found family and I love them so much for it.
As for Callan, I really liked him, even if I couldn’t fully picture him in my head (weirdly rare for me but it didn’t ruin anything). He’s got that gruff, capable energy but there’s something deeper under the surface. Their dynamic is full of tension and tenderness and everything in between.
And then the second half hits and it’s like being punched in the heart. The devastation, the truth behind Selene’s past, the sacrifices made … I wasn’t ready. It’s layered with rage, grief and this deep, aching kind of love that feels like it might rip the sky open … I’m not over it.
I’m genuinely gutted there isn’t a sequel ready to go because I need more. I need to know what happens next. Evelyn Flood please release book two immediately or send help because I’m unwell haha
August 24, 2025
That was absolutely brilliant!
A fantastic new fantasy inspired by Peter Pan and whose main characters are Hook / Tinkerbell inspired - I knew from the moment I started reading this beautifully written story I’d be invested.
Stars Above The Never Sea has several of my absolute favourite tropes, and the side characters in this are - for me - just as investment-worthy and loveable as our main characters.
Callan is such a wonderful MMC; sweet, thoughtful and kind - whereas Selene is the broken, ‘black cat’ FMC whose history is enough to break your heart in two. And the villain? Well, don’t get me started - they were enough to both creep me out, and make me incredibly angry.
Whilst there were a few elements I saw coming, and I wasn’t surprised by, it didn’t stop me from sobbing at certain points and from being totally invested in where the story was heading - if not nervous!
I cannot wait for the second instalment in December!
A fantastic new fantasy inspired by Peter Pan and whose main characters are Hook / Tinkerbell inspired - I knew from the moment I started reading this beautifully written story I’d be invested.
Stars Above The Never Sea has several of my absolute favourite tropes, and the side characters in this are - for me - just as investment-worthy and loveable as our main characters.
Callan is such a wonderful MMC; sweet, thoughtful and kind - whereas Selene is the broken, ‘black cat’ FMC whose history is enough to break your heart in two. And the villain? Well, don’t get me started - they were enough to both creep me out, and make me incredibly angry.
Whilst there were a few elements I saw coming, and I wasn’t surprised by, it didn’t stop me from sobbing at certain points and from being totally invested in where the story was heading - if not nervous!
I cannot wait for the second instalment in December!
July 30, 2025
This dual-pov, slowburn, romantasy is beautiful and empowering. The story of Selene and Callan is so nicely and emotionally written. Although it took me a moment to get into the story, I eventually couldn’t stop reading. The world-building and character development is very well-written, and the side characters fit into the story effortlessly and add so much more to the whole book. The magic system was very unique in a positive way.
This story ripped me apart emotionally!
Callan is definitely a potential book boyfriend over here and Selene is trying so hard not to feel anything. This duo had everything you could wish for in a romantasy! The writing made me feel like I was living this book out and was present for everything that happened.
The ending - why… this was wild and I'm hurt. I can’t wait for the second book!
Thank you NetGally and Evelyn Flood for this beautiful ARC.
This story ripped me apart emotionally!
Callan is definitely a potential book boyfriend over here and Selene is trying so hard not to feel anything. This duo had everything you could wish for in a romantasy! The writing made me feel like I was living this book out and was present for everything that happened.
The ending - why… this was wild and I'm hurt. I can’t wait for the second book!
Thank you NetGally and Evelyn Flood for this beautiful ARC.
August 11, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
"Own your fear. Hold onto it. But do not let it own you. Take hold of it, and embrace it. Remember that darkness is only the absence of light, and you are made of light itself."
This book ended up being so much more than I thought it would be. The magic system was so refreshing. The book was fast paced and kept me interested from beginning to end. The characters were beautiful.
"Any god who watches their people suffering and does nothing is not one that deserves my respect."
"Own your fear. Hold onto it. But do not let it own you. Take hold of it, and embrace it. Remember that darkness is only the absence of light, and you are made of light itself."
This book ended up being so much more than I thought it would be. The magic system was so refreshing. The book was fast paced and kept me interested from beginning to end. The characters were beautiful.
"Any god who watches their people suffering and does nothing is not one that deserves my respect."
August 17, 2025
Oh my goodness where do I even begin?
This was incredible, I devoured it! The level of detail was excellent, gripping and plentiful whilst never feeling drawn out or too much/confusing.
The first chapter alone was brilliant, I was hooked from the start and it just kept getting better and better!
The characters? Instantly intriguing and likeable. The plot? Magnificent. I think I went through absolutely every emotion known to man during this book.
The ENDING?! That cliffhanger!! Evelyn?!
Screaming, crying, throwing up.
This was incredible, I devoured it! The level of detail was excellent, gripping and plentiful whilst never feeling drawn out or too much/confusing.
The first chapter alone was brilliant, I was hooked from the start and it just kept getting better and better!
The characters? Instantly intriguing and likeable. The plot? Magnificent. I think I went through absolutely every emotion known to man during this book.
The ENDING?! That cliffhanger!! Evelyn?!
Screaming, crying, throwing up.
October 26, 2025
For those, like me, who have the tendency to judge a book based on its cover…… this book is NOT about mermaids. That was a right shock. Anywho, I will now use “well met” in every greeting going forward.
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