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Sapphire City
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About the author
Astrid Cole
5 books154 followersAstrid Cole has a master’s in English Literature from Florida International University. Although she enjoys all subjects, she started writing fiction in high school and hasn’t stopped since. When she’s not plotting her next novel, she’s teaching students history and hitting the gym. A former bodybuilder, running and exercise are a part of her daily routine…and so are playing video games and watching horror movies. Diamond City is her first published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 30, 2024
Once again Sage takes us on another wild journey to a magnificent city with even more fascinating Sci-Fi creatures. As always not everyone can be trusted, and allies are made from the least expected. New truths are revealed, and Sage and her family must make some of the hardest decisions to save the lives of many. What lies ahead for this amazing family is unclear, but one thing is for sure, their love will conquer all.
Sapphire City was jammed packed with suspense, twists, and heartache. My head is still spinning, and my heart remains in pieces. I finished this book but couldn’t make myself close it. I didn’t want it to be over. I needed more, it couldn’t just end like this. I should be used to this roller coaster of emotions by now, but Astrid Cole continues to blow me away.
For the first time I am having to wait to continue Sage’s story. Patience is not my strongest attribute, but I suppose if Damian can wait for Sage, I can too.
Sapphire City was jammed packed with suspense, twists, and heartache. My head is still spinning, and my heart remains in pieces. I finished this book but couldn’t make myself close it. I didn’t want it to be over. I needed more, it couldn’t just end like this. I should be used to this roller coaster of emotions by now, but Astrid Cole continues to blow me away.
For the first time I am having to wait to continue Sage’s story. Patience is not my strongest attribute, but I suppose if Damian can wait for Sage, I can too.
January 13, 2025
"Without words, Sage and Damian came together. Damian pulled her into his chest and held her tightly like a teddy bear. It wasn't enough to crush her—it was enough to tell her that he would protect her no matter what. That without her, his life was void. The state of his soul didn't matter."
And honestly, my life would be void without Astrid and the Diamond City series.
Astrid has found her way into my head and heart, and she doesn't plan to leave. Ever. Why would she? It's not like I could ever let her go. I don't want the story and the series to ever leave my thoughts; these characters have firmly settled in. Sage, Damian, Pollux, Castor, Silas, Samson, they are all here to stay.
At this point, I feel like I have given Astrid the task of surpassing my expectations with each book, and she has passed it (again) with flying colours. We are on Book 5, and I can officially say I don't think anything could top Sapphire. Up for another challenge, Astrid?
I struggle to find the right words to describe this book. It was way too perfect to succumb to mortal words. Maybe if I were a hybrid or a Lolligo, I'd feel more apt, but alas, I am but a mere mortal living in Astrid's world. And Damian's, of course (sorry, Damian).
Sapphire City made and broke my heart so many times that I stopped counting. It made me question everything I thought I knew about this world. It made me think, conspire, imagine what the truth might be and what else is not as it seems. People, cities, ideas, history—what is true and what isn't? Oh, your mind will spin with all the revelations and the possibilities. And still, there is so much more to uncover.
But, but, but. Sapphire City will give you more than that. It will grab you with its tentacles, latch onto you, and never let go. Those pure, raw emotions oozing from the pages will never leave your mind and soul. The love Sage and Damian share, the progress they make in their relationship is, simply put, otherworldly. These two souls will never seize love, cherish, inspire, and make each other laugh. Their entire family dynamics were beautiful to witness, with all the good and bad.
Astrid writes of dystopian worlds, cities, and technologies we could only dream of, but the heart of it all: love, devotion, pain, loss, rage, betrayal—they are universal. A family is what we make of it; a home is where we decide it is, and loving is a choice we make each day.
How will I go on after that ending? Broken, shattered, but still ready to fight and finally see each character is given the ending they truly deserve.
Give yourself a chance and jump into Astrid's world; join us on this wild ride, and trust me, you will never want to leave this rollercoaster.
And honestly, my life would be void without Astrid and the Diamond City series.
Astrid has found her way into my head and heart, and she doesn't plan to leave. Ever. Why would she? It's not like I could ever let her go. I don't want the story and the series to ever leave my thoughts; these characters have firmly settled in. Sage, Damian, Pollux, Castor, Silas, Samson, they are all here to stay.
At this point, I feel like I have given Astrid the task of surpassing my expectations with each book, and she has passed it (again) with flying colours. We are on Book 5, and I can officially say I don't think anything could top Sapphire. Up for another challenge, Astrid?
I struggle to find the right words to describe this book. It was way too perfect to succumb to mortal words. Maybe if I were a hybrid or a Lolligo, I'd feel more apt, but alas, I am but a mere mortal living in Astrid's world. And Damian's, of course (sorry, Damian).
Sapphire City made and broke my heart so many times that I stopped counting. It made me question everything I thought I knew about this world. It made me think, conspire, imagine what the truth might be and what else is not as it seems. People, cities, ideas, history—what is true and what isn't? Oh, your mind will spin with all the revelations and the possibilities. And still, there is so much more to uncover.
But, but, but. Sapphire City will give you more than that. It will grab you with its tentacles, latch onto you, and never let go. Those pure, raw emotions oozing from the pages will never leave your mind and soul. The love Sage and Damian share, the progress they make in their relationship is, simply put, otherworldly. These two souls will never seize love, cherish, inspire, and make each other laugh. Their entire family dynamics were beautiful to witness, with all the good and bad.
Astrid writes of dystopian worlds, cities, and technologies we could only dream of, but the heart of it all: love, devotion, pain, loss, rage, betrayal—they are universal. A family is what we make of it; a home is where we decide it is, and loving is a choice we make each day.
How will I go on after that ending? Broken, shattered, but still ready to fight and finally see each character is given the ending they truly deserve.
Give yourself a chance and jump into Astrid's world; join us on this wild ride, and trust me, you will never want to leave this rollercoaster.
December 31, 2024
Okay, I needed some time to write my review. And let me tell you, this was for sure a Rollercoaster of emotions. Just like the other books, but I think this one had more. At the beginning it was like "oh okay" " oh yeah that happened" " what was that" and the the last few chapters was like: 🫣🫣😶🌫️😶🌫️🤯🤯😵😵 all the emotion at once and you have no idea how to continue on.
January 1, 2025
Excuse me? What?!
This book answered many questions I didn’t know I had from previous books and at the same time has me asking 100 more. I need book 6 ASAP.
Sapphire City is book 5 of the Diamond City Series and the character development in this book is amazing. When I read book 1 I rated it a 4 stars because Sage, the FMC came across as a little childish but it makes so much more sense now why she was like that. It was a delicately crafted character flaw.
You know when they tell you to trust the process? That’s the deal with this series.
Will you be confused once in a while? Yes. I promise the questions all get answered in due time and it’s mind blowing and absolutely worth it.
Will you want to throw the book across the room? Yes. On several occasions.
Will you want to send back to back DMs to the author screaming at her for what she’s done to your heart? Also yes. Sorry Astrid 😅❤️.
This book answered many questions I didn’t know I had from previous books and at the same time has me asking 100 more. I need book 6 ASAP.
Sapphire City is book 5 of the Diamond City Series and the character development in this book is amazing. When I read book 1 I rated it a 4 stars because Sage, the FMC came across as a little childish but it makes so much more sense now why she was like that. It was a delicately crafted character flaw.
You know when they tell you to trust the process? That’s the deal with this series.
Will you be confused once in a while? Yes. I promise the questions all get answered in due time and it’s mind blowing and absolutely worth it.
Will you want to throw the book across the room? Yes. On several occasions.
Will you want to send back to back DMs to the author screaming at her for what she’s done to your heart? Also yes. Sorry Astrid 😅❤️.
January 19, 2025
Rating: 5+
Spice: 2
Astrid's goal is to torture you, to make you feel emotionally damaged, heartbroken and devastated.
She does a very good job at that! How does she keep coming up with crazy stuff to continue this series?! I love it!! I totally devoured this 5th book in The Diamond City series. I am so invested. Her writing is magnificent, the way she makes everything so immersive and lets me feel all the emotions... Of course its not only what I mentioned above, it also has many funny, silly, beautiful and heartwarming moments. I love how she always adds so much to her books. From politiques to everyday family life and mental struggles to adventure and discoveries. She keeps integrating all these amazing twists and turns... I am still recovering. Insane author = insane books. All such beautiful and unique cities she has created.
AHHHHHHH - AMAZEBALLS.
LOVE LOVE LOVE! Sage, Damian, Pollux, Castor, Silas and Samson are truly unforgetable characters. One of the things I enjoy the most is the silly sexual banter between Damian and Sage. It's there in every single book and it never gets old. Gotta love the sweet s*x addict !!
Thank you so much Astrid for your creation!!
Spice: 2
Astrid's goal is to torture you, to make you feel emotionally damaged, heartbroken and devastated.
She does a very good job at that! How does she keep coming up with crazy stuff to continue this series?! I love it!! I totally devoured this 5th book in The Diamond City series. I am so invested. Her writing is magnificent, the way she makes everything so immersive and lets me feel all the emotions... Of course its not only what I mentioned above, it also has many funny, silly, beautiful and heartwarming moments. I love how she always adds so much to her books. From politiques to everyday family life and mental struggles to adventure and discoveries. She keeps integrating all these amazing twists and turns... I am still recovering. Insane author = insane books. All such beautiful and unique cities she has created.
AHHHHHHH - AMAZEBALLS.
LOVE LOVE LOVE! Sage, Damian, Pollux, Castor, Silas and Samson are truly unforgetable characters. One of the things I enjoy the most is the silly sexual banter between Damian and Sage. It's there in every single book and it never gets old. Gotta love the sweet s*x addict !!
Thank you so much Astrid for your creation!!
January 13, 2025
4.75
Astrid knows how much I love chaos, and she brings it every time. Finally hoping that Sage, Damian and their boys can finally have some normalcy is too much to ask. In the aftermath of facing the perfect warriors, Sage is trying to maintain positivity in her strength as the optimum, but we all know, when there is a new city, that all bets are off and its about to go down.
I loved the introduction of this new city and allowing it to be so different from previous cities, not only in location, but in societal norms and customs. These creates a significant juxtaposition to the relative normalcy (I say this very lightly as not a whole lot is normal) to the physical descriptions of the people and the places we have visited.
Astrid always has my mind going a million different directions as these books progress and the WTF moments are always a highlight. Thank goodness for Sci-Fi cause the twists can be real weird, which also makes this so much fun to read. Like some of these things are batty AF, but it is guaranteed that Astrid and her characters will keep you engaged. I can't wait for what's next.
Astrid knows how much I love chaos, and she brings it every time. Finally hoping that Sage, Damian and their boys can finally have some normalcy is too much to ask. In the aftermath of facing the perfect warriors, Sage is trying to maintain positivity in her strength as the optimum, but we all know, when there is a new city, that all bets are off and its about to go down.
I loved the introduction of this new city and allowing it to be so different from previous cities, not only in location, but in societal norms and customs. These creates a significant juxtaposition to the relative normalcy (I say this very lightly as not a whole lot is normal) to the physical descriptions of the people and the places we have visited.
Astrid always has my mind going a million different directions as these books progress and the WTF moments are always a highlight. Thank goodness for Sci-Fi cause the twists can be real weird, which also makes this so much fun to read. Like some of these things are batty AF, but it is guaranteed that Astrid and her characters will keep you engaged. I can't wait for what's next.
January 14, 2025
✨Sapphire City✨
It’s not often that you get to spend enough time with two characters to see a refined relationship develop with realistic brokenness and growth. However, as we venture through the pages of Astrid’s fifth book of her Diamond City series, we get that AND individual as well as familiar growth and development. And y’all, it’s messy but it is so dang beautiful.
Within these pages, we get to be with all our favorite people in not just one new territory, but TWO. The Damianos family finally gets to travel for a vacation to Emerald City, but what awaits them is an infestation of parasites, missing persons, fish people, and multiple attacks. New reveals and info soon lead to an underwater community that gives off big Bioshock vibes and even more of the chaos, monsters, and plot twists we all love from Astrid!
There’s new and devastating information and events around every corner in Sapphire City, but we also witness INCREDIBLE character growth, realistic relationship communication, a desperate kind of unconditional love, and hilarious banter.
I will be 💯. This book is my FAVORITE yet out of the 6. I loved it SO MUCH. Even though Astrid hurt me many times.
Tropes you may find in this SERIES are post-apocalyptic dystopian world, sci-fi with touches of fantasy, monsters and enhanced beings, swords and lasers and air crafts, end all be all love, hilarious romance and banter, high stakes and an insane set of reveals and plot twists, so much character and world building!! Y’all NEED to check out Astrid’s series. A 6 book series planned, 3 books out, book 4 this later this year!
Thank you, as always sweet Astrid, for letting me be an arc reader for you. This was such a delight. Each one has been.
It’s not often that you get to spend enough time with two characters to see a refined relationship develop with realistic brokenness and growth. However, as we venture through the pages of Astrid’s fifth book of her Diamond City series, we get that AND individual as well as familiar growth and development. And y’all, it’s messy but it is so dang beautiful.
Within these pages, we get to be with all our favorite people in not just one new territory, but TWO. The Damianos family finally gets to travel for a vacation to Emerald City, but what awaits them is an infestation of parasites, missing persons, fish people, and multiple attacks. New reveals and info soon lead to an underwater community that gives off big Bioshock vibes and even more of the chaos, monsters, and plot twists we all love from Astrid!
There’s new and devastating information and events around every corner in Sapphire City, but we also witness INCREDIBLE character growth, realistic relationship communication, a desperate kind of unconditional love, and hilarious banter.
I will be 💯. This book is my FAVORITE yet out of the 6. I loved it SO MUCH. Even though Astrid hurt me many times.
Tropes you may find in this SERIES are post-apocalyptic dystopian world, sci-fi with touches of fantasy, monsters and enhanced beings, swords and lasers and air crafts, end all be all love, hilarious romance and banter, high stakes and an insane set of reveals and plot twists, so much character and world building!! Y’all NEED to check out Astrid’s series. A 6 book series planned, 3 books out, book 4 this later this year!
Thank you, as always sweet Astrid, for letting me be an arc reader for you. This was such a delight. Each one has been.
January 18, 2025
Astrid has outdone herself with book 5 in the Diamond City series. This is a book you will find hard to put down. The world building and character development are still magnificent and have even leveled up. This storyline is truly genius and I am already excited to see how everything wraps up in book 6.
The queer representation in this world continues to be beautiful and accepted. And the love and support of those with mental health issues grows and matures with our characters. This is truly a diverse series.
If you enjoy a heartstopping science fiction adventure, full of friendship, family, and a love for a lifetime, get this book!
Open door spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
The queer representation in this world continues to be beautiful and accepted. And the love and support of those with mental health issues grows and matures with our characters. This is truly a diverse series.
If you enjoy a heartstopping science fiction adventure, full of friendship, family, and a love for a lifetime, get this book!
Open door spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
April 21, 2025
what the hell...😱😱😱😱
how am I supposed to even say anything without even spoiling a thing.
we're back with Sage and Damian and once again....never a relaxing moment.
just when you think it'll happen...nope rugs pulled out from all of us, characters and readers...all of us just thrown right back in full action without a warm up.
Samson though 😭😭😭😭 no no no.
Astrid!!!!
whyyyyyyy? 😭😭😭😭
thank you Astrid for the early arc, and for once again taking me on a wild insane ride with Sage and Damian.
how am I supposed to even say anything without even spoiling a thing.
we're back with Sage and Damian and once again....never a relaxing moment.
just when you think it'll happen...nope rugs pulled out from all of us, characters and readers...all of us just thrown right back in full action without a warm up.
Samson though 😭😭😭😭 no no no.
Astrid!!!!
whyyyyyyy? 😭😭😭😭
thank you Astrid for the early arc, and for once again taking me on a wild insane ride with Sage and Damian.
January 24, 2025
"I can't get the thought of you out of my head. Therefore I am experiencing heightened separation anxiety when you're not around. He says it has to do with trauma and survival, but it also means my love for you is so strong that I will just wither away if you're not by my side."
It is impossible to read an Astrid Cole book and not feel a whirlwind of emotions. I always talk about Emerald City being my favorite. Well, move over Emerald, there's a new favorite in town. 🤠🤣 Sapphire City explains so much yet less us wondering more by the end of it. Damian and Sage are their amazing selves but they both struggle with their emotions and identity throughout this book. I was so excited to get more time with Castor and Pollux. The ending left me both heartbroken and questioning everything I ever knew. Honestly, the whole book had me questioning anything I knew. Also, I can't quite believe the imagination Astrid has. Many of these characters are unlike anything I've ever heard of before, however due to amazing description we are able to picture them so vividly. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. I am already going crazy not knowing what happens.
It is impossible to read an Astrid Cole book and not feel a whirlwind of emotions. I always talk about Emerald City being my favorite. Well, move over Emerald, there's a new favorite in town. 🤠🤣 Sapphire City explains so much yet less us wondering more by the end of it. Damian and Sage are their amazing selves but they both struggle with their emotions and identity throughout this book. I was so excited to get more time with Castor and Pollux. The ending left me both heartbroken and questioning everything I ever knew. Honestly, the whole book had me questioning anything I knew. Also, I can't quite believe the imagination Astrid has. Many of these characters are unlike anything I've ever heard of before, however due to amazing description we are able to picture them so vividly. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. I am already going crazy not knowing what happens.
February 11, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
Okay Astrid has some explaining to do because the ending of this book?! This MIGHT be my favorite book in the series so far! Drama, secrets revealed, spicy scenes and so much more!! Buuuut this is a spoiler free review (for now) so I won't spill the beans just yet!
Okay Astrid has some explaining to do because the ending of this book?! This MIGHT be my favorite book in the series so far! Drama, secrets revealed, spicy scenes and so much more!! Buuuut this is a spoiler free review (for now) so I won't spill the beans just yet!
January 28, 2025
This took a turn in a way I didn't expect for the series. A city underwater is just a fun location twist to make.
Sage goes through a lot in this book as so many details about her and the lolligo are discovered. This also does a good job of playing with science and how we understand it in this world.
Sage and Damian's entire life gets out to another test as Sage has found herself in another life compromising situation, but unlike before, fighting her way out isn't exactly an option.
Oh did I mention a battle?
I don't know how Astrid does it, but I'll never get off the roller coaster right that is this series. The end of this book has me chomping at the bit for the next one as so much is being set up.
Sage goes through a lot in this book as so many details about her and the lolligo are discovered. This also does a good job of playing with science and how we understand it in this world.
Sage and Damian's entire life gets out to another test as Sage has found herself in another life compromising situation, but unlike before, fighting her way out isn't exactly an option.
Oh did I mention a battle?
I don't know how Astrid does it, but I'll never get off the roller coaster right that is this series. The end of this book has me chomping at the bit for the next one as so much is being set up.
January 21, 2025
Beta read
February 21, 2025
Another 5 star amazing read as part of the Diamond City series. We all have a love-hate to Astrid’s storytelling so it may seem like I’m being negative but that’s just because she ripped my heart out and killed off my favourite characters 🤣
Right out of the get go, something bad has to happen. Poor Cushion.
I love how strong willed and in tune to her instincts Sage is. Of course it wasn’t natural causes and I don’t know why everyone else just accepted that.
I do like Silas a lot, he really tries a lot and he works hard. He just fights behind the scenes. So happy when he and Pollux announced their engagement!
I was considering the fish-human hybrids for awhile and then Astrid sent me photos of their inspo and I was like Fuck That, those creepy mother fuckers are definitely up to no good!
I think I lost my heartbeat when Pollux was potentially dead. I do not like all the uncertainty that Astrid loves to write, it’s like cliffhangers mid story and then eventually we get back to it. Like holy shit I’ve not been able to breathe!!
It always baffles me how Sage can lose one battle and then just immediately go into a depressive spiral thinking she’s terrible. Girl has the worst imposter syndrome
Astrid also has a way to introduce animal characters that are just horrifying and lovable. The Magnum Monstrum sounds so god awful visually but he saved Sage so that’s all I care about! And finding out who he is, so perfect!
When we find out about the Allseer’s daughter and Sage’s visions, I instantly connect that she’s his daughter but still not 100% sure. Just everything lines up so nice and I love being able to connect dots in Astrid’s stories.
Still so much happens. It’s insane how the Lolligo creation unfolds and even Samson doesn’t know what’s going on. So many twists and mysteries. Can’t trust anything or anyone!
Fave quote is Sage’s description of Omnipotens as the ugliest squid she’s ever seen and “his eyes were almond-shaped and amber, flowing like radioactive piss in a drain”
Astrid is the master of visuals 😂
SAMSONNNNN, Astrid how could you?!?! He’s not dead, he’s not dead, he can’t be!!!
And then Damian! God damn Selanium
I, once again, cannot believe so much happens in one book. I love this series in such a deep level. It’s definitely a thinker and you have to put effort into reading it, there’s so much to organize in your brain. It’s so so good!
Right out of the get go, something bad has to happen. Poor Cushion.
I love how strong willed and in tune to her instincts Sage is. Of course it wasn’t natural causes and I don’t know why everyone else just accepted that.
I do like Silas a lot, he really tries a lot and he works hard. He just fights behind the scenes. So happy when he and Pollux announced their engagement!
I was considering the fish-human hybrids for awhile and then Astrid sent me photos of their inspo and I was like Fuck That, those creepy mother fuckers are definitely up to no good!
I think I lost my heartbeat when Pollux was potentially dead. I do not like all the uncertainty that Astrid loves to write, it’s like cliffhangers mid story and then eventually we get back to it. Like holy shit I’ve not been able to breathe!!
It always baffles me how Sage can lose one battle and then just immediately go into a depressive spiral thinking she’s terrible. Girl has the worst imposter syndrome
Astrid also has a way to introduce animal characters that are just horrifying and lovable. The Magnum Monstrum sounds so god awful visually but he saved Sage so that’s all I care about! And finding out who he is, so perfect!
When we find out about the Allseer’s daughter and Sage’s visions, I instantly connect that she’s his daughter but still not 100% sure. Just everything lines up so nice and I love being able to connect dots in Astrid’s stories.
Still so much happens. It’s insane how the Lolligo creation unfolds and even Samson doesn’t know what’s going on. So many twists and mysteries. Can’t trust anything or anyone!
Fave quote is Sage’s description of Omnipotens as the ugliest squid she’s ever seen and “his eyes were almond-shaped and amber, flowing like radioactive piss in a drain”
Astrid is the master of visuals 😂
SAMSONNNNN, Astrid how could you?!?! He’s not dead, he’s not dead, he can’t be!!!
And then Damian! God damn Selanium
I, once again, cannot believe so much happens in one book. I love this series in such a deep level. It’s definitely a thinker and you have to put effort into reading it, there’s so much to organize in your brain. It’s so so good!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
WOW. I thought I had a favorite book in this series (Emerald City…I was Team Damian from Day 1 and in his corner through all of his dramatics), but Sapphire City just surpassed every single expectation I thought I had for this series and absolutely blew me away! I do not cry often when I read, but Astrid took me on an emotional journey with my favorite power couple, Damian and Sage, and my heart was broken and put back together multiple times while reading.
🍕Strong AF, Pizza-loving FMC
🖤Morally Gray MMC
🍕Banter
🖤Transcendent Love
🍕Power Struggles
🖤Futuristic & Dystopian World
🍕Sci-Fi Adventure
Opal City was a bit of a mindf*ck–there were alot of intense moments while Sage struggled with severe PTSD and Damian struggled to work on his overbearing and impulsive tendencies. Both Sage and Damian are in a much better place emotionally in Sapphire City, and the way in which we have gotten to see each character grow individually, and together, is more special than I can put into words. Sage and Damian’s relationship has developed through circumstances in which each person has been broken and needed to piece themselves back together. It has been messy, but the end result? The most beautiful and transcendent love story.
After a battle that pushed Sage past her limits, she is recovering and finally getting the chance to visit Emerald City. While traveling, the Damianos family encounters new enemies working with old foes, attacks on multiple fronts, and personal challenges that threaten everything they hold dear. In true Astrid Cole fashion, there are plot twists galore, and you will be left questioning EVERY SINGLE THING YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW ABOUT THIS WORLD.
Knowing that there is only one book left in this series…I’m NOT ready! I want the tentacles that roped me in and are now clung to me like a second skin, to stay there forever. I’m not kidding when I say that once you jump on the wild ride that is the Diamond City Series that you will not want to get off of it.
If you are looking for a fast-paced, action-packed story with intricate world building, intense emotions, humor, and romance weaved into a nuanced plot, then join the madness! You won’t regret it!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
WOW. I thought I had a favorite book in this series (Emerald City…I was Team Damian from Day 1 and in his corner through all of his dramatics), but Sapphire City just surpassed every single expectation I thought I had for this series and absolutely blew me away! I do not cry often when I read, but Astrid took me on an emotional journey with my favorite power couple, Damian and Sage, and my heart was broken and put back together multiple times while reading.
🍕Strong AF, Pizza-loving FMC
🖤Morally Gray MMC
🍕Banter
🖤Transcendent Love
🍕Power Struggles
🖤Futuristic & Dystopian World
🍕Sci-Fi Adventure
Opal City was a bit of a mindf*ck–there were alot of intense moments while Sage struggled with severe PTSD and Damian struggled to work on his overbearing and impulsive tendencies. Both Sage and Damian are in a much better place emotionally in Sapphire City, and the way in which we have gotten to see each character grow individually, and together, is more special than I can put into words. Sage and Damian’s relationship has developed through circumstances in which each person has been broken and needed to piece themselves back together. It has been messy, but the end result? The most beautiful and transcendent love story.
After a battle that pushed Sage past her limits, she is recovering and finally getting the chance to visit Emerald City. While traveling, the Damianos family encounters new enemies working with old foes, attacks on multiple fronts, and personal challenges that threaten everything they hold dear. In true Astrid Cole fashion, there are plot twists galore, and you will be left questioning EVERY SINGLE THING YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW ABOUT THIS WORLD.
Knowing that there is only one book left in this series…I’m NOT ready! I want the tentacles that roped me in and are now clung to me like a second skin, to stay there forever. I’m not kidding when I say that once you jump on the wild ride that is the Diamond City Series that you will not want to get off of it.
If you are looking for a fast-paced, action-packed story with intricate world building, intense emotions, humor, and romance weaved into a nuanced plot, then join the madness! You won’t regret it!
July 9, 2025
every single book that gets added to this series I feel my heart shatter again and AGAIN. Astrid Cole has done it again with giving her readers hope just to throw bricks at us when we feel safe…
SAPPHIRE CITY! A gorgeous underwater metropolis with tons of new characters and.. nutrition balls?? 🤔
I’m all reality though, you guys KNOW Emerald City is my favorite Diamond City book, sapphire came soo close to winning that title, honestly I’m not completely sure they aren’t tied for first place! Sapphire was AMAZING and worth the wait and actually I cannot wait to physically hold this piece of art in my hands one day..
We learn so much more about the world this story takes place in, but honestly I’m even more confused after it (I like being confused about lore because then I get to have those “oh shit!” Moments when it all clicks together!) and Damien and Sage also make such waves of change in their relationship and it’s so refreshing to see a book couple working on their relationship with their partner rather than everything being magically perfect — it makes Sage and Damien so much more real and relatable!!
And also the end of this book broke my heart (when doesn’t Astrid leave us with broken hearts..) and I cannot wait to break my heart again in tourmaline!!
I feel like I cannot rave enough about how much I love these books and characters and this world Astrid had created, this series is truly unforgettable and I think about it literally at least five times a day!!! 😆
Thank you Astrid for the opportunities to read your books and get to know and love your characters again and again! 💙💙
SAPPHIRE CITY! A gorgeous underwater metropolis with tons of new characters and.. nutrition balls?? 🤔
I’m all reality though, you guys KNOW Emerald City is my favorite Diamond City book, sapphire came soo close to winning that title, honestly I’m not completely sure they aren’t tied for first place! Sapphire was AMAZING and worth the wait and actually I cannot wait to physically hold this piece of art in my hands one day..
We learn so much more about the world this story takes place in, but honestly I’m even more confused after it (I like being confused about lore because then I get to have those “oh shit!” Moments when it all clicks together!) and Damien and Sage also make such waves of change in their relationship and it’s so refreshing to see a book couple working on their relationship with their partner rather than everything being magically perfect — it makes Sage and Damien so much more real and relatable!!
And also the end of this book broke my heart (when doesn’t Astrid leave us with broken hearts..) and I cannot wait to break my heart again in tourmaline!!
I feel like I cannot rave enough about how much I love these books and characters and this world Astrid had created, this series is truly unforgettable and I think about it literally at least five times a day!!! 😆
Thank you Astrid for the opportunities to read your books and get to know and love your characters again and again! 💙💙
April 17, 2025
As expected, this was another crazy ride courtesy of Astrid Cole! Dare I say it, I think this is my favorite one of the series so far. Sage and Damien once again find themselves in another city which needs their help. Of course, there are old and new enemies everywhere and constant doubts about who they can trust.
At the heart of this series is the raw and real portrayal of Damien and Sage’s love story, and I am in awe at how their growth—both individually and as a couple—keeps evolving. I loved the added family dynamics that Pollox and Castor bring to the story, and witnessing their development and interactions with their parents are some of my favorite scenes.
As for the plot twists - Holy He11!! Whiplash is a mild term for the way this story careened off into new territory, answering some questions while simultaneously creating new ones. By the end, I am second guessing everything I thought I knew and am left with my mouth gaping open and a need for the next book NOW!
If you love a quickly paced plot with in depth world building that takes you on an emotional trip like none other, you cannot miss this series. Full of romance, humor and suspense, once you are hooked, you won’t ever want it to end. Speaking of ending, the last book in the series is next, and I am both equal parts excited and terrified to see how this trip ends.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Thank you, Astrid Cole for the ARC. As always, these are my own honest thoughts and opinions.
March 23, 2025
New fav book in the series!! Sapphire City is BOOK 5 in the Diamond City series, and it does not hold back! Expect:
✨ Deep, immersive world-building
✨ Non-stop action and intense battles
✨ Hybrid-enhanced humans (because why not make things even cooler?)
If you thought the previous books were heartbreaking, Sapphire City takes it to another level. I’ve grown so attached to these characters, and this book had me reeling over some of the losses (no spoilers, but wow).
I was fully invested—cheering for the good guys, stressed over the war, and completely blindsided by the twists. Samson is still my favorite, but Silas has seriously stepped up as one of the best characters in the series!
If you love multi-book sci-fi series with high stakes, incredible characters, and epic storytelling, definitely check this one out!
Huge thanks to @astridcolebooks for keeping me on the ARC team—I’m beyond grateful to be along for this ride!
Content Warnings:
🫢 Strong language throughout
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open-door scenes: Ch. 3, 13, 24
✨ Deep, immersive world-building
✨ Non-stop action and intense battles
✨ Hybrid-enhanced humans (because why not make things even cooler?)
If you thought the previous books were heartbreaking, Sapphire City takes it to another level. I’ve grown so attached to these characters, and this book had me reeling over some of the losses (no spoilers, but wow).
I was fully invested—cheering for the good guys, stressed over the war, and completely blindsided by the twists. Samson is still my favorite, but Silas has seriously stepped up as one of the best characters in the series!
If you love multi-book sci-fi series with high stakes, incredible characters, and epic storytelling, definitely check this one out!
Huge thanks to @astridcolebooks for keeping me on the ARC team—I’m beyond grateful to be along for this ride!
Content Warnings:
🫢 Strong language throughout
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open-door scenes: Ch. 3, 13, 24
May 1, 2025
I was in a massive slump, but picking this up was one of my most level-headed decisions—it felt like coming home. Sage’s suspicions were warranted, but I still don’t understand why she felt so insecure even after marrying Damian. As usual, Damian’s protectiveness knows no bounds... and gave me a constant headache. I had no idea what to expect from this book, but Sage’s pregnancy? Definitely not on my bingo card. I never thought I’d see a version of Atlantis in a sci-fi, but I loved it all the same. At one point, I wanted to strangle Astrid for what she was putting my babies through. One thing I’ll never understand—no matter how many books we get—is Damian’s libido. This was a wild ride, and wow, that ending.
May 2, 2025
Here we are once again left utterly destroyed. Sage is up against some insane drama dealing with healing, trauma, evil bad guys, and strange visions. She’s again battling monsters and dealing with new truths that will leave you dumbfounded.
As always, be prepared to have your heart ripped out and to be left in complete denial of all you know and experience. Astrid really does continue to bring the most epic battles, drama, and story telling I’ve ever experienced.
As always, be prepared to have your heart ripped out and to be left in complete denial of all you know and experience. Astrid really does continue to bring the most epic battles, drama, and story telling I’ve ever experienced.
July 3, 2025
Astrid has ruin me for life with this book. I won't put any spoilers but I am so fucking emotional. The way it ended with Damian and Sage. The way it ended with Samson and the twins. Just the way the book ended ruined me. Oh god I love it though. This series has been so full of twists and emotions. I am loving the plot for each book and seeing how Sage flourishes in the end. I really enjoy every bit of the books. I can't wait for the next one.
March 2, 2025
Big thank you to Astrid Cole for this advanced E-copy
Wow!
My emotions are shot 🥴
It took a lot to beat Opal, but Sapphire City might just have done that!
I absolutely love the growth that we get to see in Damian.
This journey gets better with every book, I can't wait for the final pieces
Wow!
My emotions are shot 🥴
It took a lot to beat Opal, but Sapphire City might just have done that!
I absolutely love the growth that we get to see in Damian.
This journey gets better with every book, I can't wait for the final pieces
December 7, 2025
What did I just read?! This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Chef's kisses to the Diamond City series!! I have enjoyed every single book I have read so far. 100% recommend, you're in for a treat!
May 31, 2025
Just here staring at my poor heart on the floor after that last book… still sobbing … speechless
September 30, 2025
Wow.. Astrid told me this one gets intense and she wasn't kidding. I even teared up at one part there.. by far one of the best of this series in my opinion.
February 2, 2025
Another breathtaking installment in the Diamond City series—and of course, I loved it! 💎💙
Each book in this series brings new places, new challenges, and new opponents, but Sapphire City felt different - deeper, even more emotional. It still delivers the perfect mix of joy, laughter, tears, fear, and love, but this time, there’s an added weight.
The story kicks off with Sage returning to a place where her life changed forever, more than 30 years ago. Sadly, the reason for her return isn’t the happiest… but because of it, the bigger picture of this universe starts to unfold. And trust me - you might want to keep a notebook handy, because the world-changing secrets, jaw-dropping discoveries, and unexpected surprises will leave you reeling.
There’s little room for peace in Sage and Damian’s world, but their love? Unshakable. They’ve been through hell, and they’ll face whatever comes next - together.
And that ending? Yep. Another cliffhanger. 😭💔
I feel so emotionally attached to this universe and its characters, and the wait for book six? Pure torture...
Thank you, Astrid Cole, for this wonderful journey and the ARC! 💙
Each book in this series brings new places, new challenges, and new opponents, but Sapphire City felt different - deeper, even more emotional. It still delivers the perfect mix of joy, laughter, tears, fear, and love, but this time, there’s an added weight.
The story kicks off with Sage returning to a place where her life changed forever, more than 30 years ago. Sadly, the reason for her return isn’t the happiest… but because of it, the bigger picture of this universe starts to unfold. And trust me - you might want to keep a notebook handy, because the world-changing secrets, jaw-dropping discoveries, and unexpected surprises will leave you reeling.
There’s little room for peace in Sage and Damian’s world, but their love? Unshakable. They’ve been through hell, and they’ll face whatever comes next - together.
And that ending? Yep. Another cliffhanger. 😭💔
I feel so emotionally attached to this universe and its characters, and the wait for book six? Pure torture...
Thank you, Astrid Cole, for this wonderful journey and the ARC! 💙
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