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Romantic fantasy fans will be swept away by this tale of fated mates, court intrigue, and a love that defies the gods who grasp for crumbling control over the realms between and below.
The ties that bind often break us.
So few understand how the weight of a crown breaks your neck and straightens your spine the way Lunar demi-goddess Astra does.
She dreams of a world where title and rank mean nothing—a dangerous thought for someone a heartbeat away from the Lunar Throne. Exiled for her fiery tendencies and unpopular politics, she’s spent the last few years far from the court’s suffocating expectations.
When palace guardians find a mysterious object, Astra’s powerful intuition earns her an unwanted summons home from the community she’s built. It’s clear right away that her mother is determined not only to prohibit her return to her found family but to use her hand as a bargaining chip to strengthen alliances with the human courts.
Determined to control her own fate, Astra strikes a deal to wed the charming and rebellious King of Mercury. Her bargain entangles her with the king’s arrogant commander, Luxuros, whose secrets will rain down hell from both the Lunar Court’s enemies in the Solar Court and the gods that watch them all from the Court Above.
As the threat of war looms, Astra and Luxuros are thrust into a dangerous game of hidden truths and forbidden power. Astra must unearth long-buried family betrayals and embrace a legacy she’s always sworn she never wanted to keep the people she loves safe.
Why romantic fantasy readers will love
Enemies-to-lovers Astra and Lux’s entanglement burns slowly with plenty of banter and yearning.
Fated mates with a Mysterious golden Tethers tie fates together, but often cause more pain than pleasure.
Celestial From moonlit forests to glittering crystal towers, immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the Lunar and Mercurian Courts.
High-stakes Perfect for readers who love political intrigue, characters in impossible situations, and hidden truths waiting to unravel entire courts.
The ties that bind often break us.
So few understand how the weight of a crown breaks your neck and straightens your spine the way Lunar demi-goddess Astra does.
She dreams of a world where title and rank mean nothing—a dangerous thought for someone a heartbeat away from the Lunar Throne. Exiled for her fiery tendencies and unpopular politics, she’s spent the last few years far from the court’s suffocating expectations.
When palace guardians find a mysterious object, Astra’s powerful intuition earns her an unwanted summons home from the community she’s built. It’s clear right away that her mother is determined not only to prohibit her return to her found family but to use her hand as a bargaining chip to strengthen alliances with the human courts.
Determined to control her own fate, Astra strikes a deal to wed the charming and rebellious King of Mercury. Her bargain entangles her with the king’s arrogant commander, Luxuros, whose secrets will rain down hell from both the Lunar Court’s enemies in the Solar Court and the gods that watch them all from the Court Above.
As the threat of war looms, Astra and Luxuros are thrust into a dangerous game of hidden truths and forbidden power. Astra must unearth long-buried family betrayals and embrace a legacy she’s always sworn she never wanted to keep the people she loves safe.
Why romantic fantasy readers will love
Enemies-to-lovers Astra and Lux’s entanglement burns slowly with plenty of banter and yearning.
Fated mates with a Mysterious golden Tethers tie fates together, but often cause more pain than pleasure.
Celestial From moonlit forests to glittering crystal towers, immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the Lunar and Mercurian Courts.
High-stakes Perfect for readers who love political intrigue, characters in impossible situations, and hidden truths waiting to unravel entire courts.
534 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
20 people are currently reading
802 people want to read
About the author
CB Woods
5 books58 followersCB Woods is an emerging romance author working across genres to bring stories about love, loss, and magic to life. She also sometimes figures out how to post TikToks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
February 21, 2025
”Whoever you are, whatever you are, Astra Leona, the gods did not craft you to hide in the shadow of night.”
this book was sooo good, especially the romance. Astra is royalty but wants nothing more than a life away from the courts and the expectations that comes with her position. she’s always had an explosive personality and it ends up landing her in exile, which she actually enjoys for the freedom it grants her. she has many abilities but her premonitions end up bringing her back to her court where she’s later encouraged to make a deal of marriage with a rebel king named Mirquois. Astra can’t help but be drawn to his commander, Luxuros, making things more difficult as they all try to prevent chaos breaking loose between the courts and the gods above.
“Because the dreams are hard enough to let go of, Astra. If you kiss me here, in the real world, where I can taste you, I’ll never recover.”
when i say i was absolutely obsessed with Astra and Lux, it’s not an understatement. this book is a great example of slow burn and yearning done PERFECTLY. there’s an element of dreams that Astra has where Lux can enter them (sometimes whether he means to or not) and those moments were some of my favorite. i also really liked the side characters too and Astra herself was such a powerhouse, i found her personality so refreshing. i also want to mention the fact that both Astra and Lux are older (30s & 40s), which is something i wish to see more of in my romantasy books. the only reason this isn’t rated higher is cause we’re just thrown into this world and i never got a solid grasp of all the different names and places. the ending had me sort of confused for bits of it but i do think it left off in a good place and i’d gladly read a sequel, no questions asked.
⇢ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Victory Editing Co-Op for the arc, all opinions are my own.
this book was sooo good, especially the romance. Astra is royalty but wants nothing more than a life away from the courts and the expectations that comes with her position. she’s always had an explosive personality and it ends up landing her in exile, which she actually enjoys for the freedom it grants her. she has many abilities but her premonitions end up bringing her back to her court where she’s later encouraged to make a deal of marriage with a rebel king named Mirquois. Astra can’t help but be drawn to his commander, Luxuros, making things more difficult as they all try to prevent chaos breaking loose between the courts and the gods above.
“Because the dreams are hard enough to let go of, Astra. If you kiss me here, in the real world, where I can taste you, I’ll never recover.”
when i say i was absolutely obsessed with Astra and Lux, it’s not an understatement. this book is a great example of slow burn and yearning done PERFECTLY. there’s an element of dreams that Astra has where Lux can enter them (sometimes whether he means to or not) and those moments were some of my favorite. i also really liked the side characters too and Astra herself was such a powerhouse, i found her personality so refreshing. i also want to mention the fact that both Astra and Lux are older (30s & 40s), which is something i wish to see more of in my romantasy books. the only reason this isn’t rated higher is cause we’re just thrown into this world and i never got a solid grasp of all the different names and places. the ending had me sort of confused for bits of it but i do think it left off in a good place and i’d gladly read a sequel, no questions asked.
⇢ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Victory Editing Co-Op for the arc, all opinions are my own.
March 11, 2025
Astra's mother sits upon the throne but that didn't stop her from being banished years ago when she shared one too many progressive thoughts that undermined her mother's strict rule. Now she has returned but her thoughts are no less contradictory to her family's. She seeks to gain control by using herself as a bargaining tool and agreeing to wed the King of Mercury. This will see her closer to the political upheaval brewing between all the courts but also to the King's commander, Luxuros, who has as much to hide as Astra herself, it soon appears.
Whilst I did love Astra's character and learning about how this world was governed, my understanding and enjoyment did dwindle a little as the book continued. What began as an exciting and fast-paced fantasy read soon became either filled with lots of information harshly thrust at the reader or pages of romantic interludes where feelings were focused on but not a lot actually occurred. I did enjoy what I read and thought this a unique premise, but the pacing was off for me and ultimately ruined my overall love for the story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, C. B. Woods, and the publisher, Emrae Publishing, for this opportunity.
Whilst I did love Astra's character and learning about how this world was governed, my understanding and enjoyment did dwindle a little as the book continued. What began as an exciting and fast-paced fantasy read soon became either filled with lots of information harshly thrust at the reader or pages of romantic interludes where feelings were focused on but not a lot actually occurred. I did enjoy what I read and thought this a unique premise, but the pacing was off for me and ultimately ruined my overall love for the story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, C. B. Woods, and the publisher, Emrae Publishing, for this opportunity.
February 21, 2025
"Make whatever you desire of me, As. Make me your sunlight, make me your darkest secret. Make an irreparable mess of me."
A celestial-themed slow burn Fantasy Romance with dragons and high-stakes political intrigue. HELLO?? I feel like this book was made for me and SHE WAS STUNNIN'!! 🤌🏻
Rift was so unique and had the most delicious slow burn. The banter and tension between Lux and Astra was perfect. I felt like I was highlighting every other sentence 😂 The world-building was easy enough to follow, but also super unique. I was hooked within the first few chapters and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat the rest of the book. And I was HOWLING when they removed Pluto from the Courts 🪦 I've honestly thought about this book so many times since I finished it, it's just SO GOOD 😩
“That, Commander, is the kind of love gods tear rifts through time and space for.”
I will definitely be reading whatever CB Woods writes in the future, I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book!
Add to TBR if you Enjoy:
🌠 30 yo FMC, 40ish MMC
✨ Princess x Commander
🌠 DRAGONS
✨ Unique World Building
🌠 Magic
✨ Banterrrr
🌠 Slow Burn
Thank you to CB Woods, NetGalley and Emrae Publishing for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
A celestial-themed slow burn Fantasy Romance with dragons and high-stakes political intrigue. HELLO?? I feel like this book was made for me and SHE WAS STUNNIN'!! 🤌🏻
Rift was so unique and had the most delicious slow burn. The banter and tension between Lux and Astra was perfect. I felt like I was highlighting every other sentence 😂 The world-building was easy enough to follow, but also super unique. I was hooked within the first few chapters and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat the rest of the book. And I was HOWLING when they removed Pluto from the Courts 🪦 I've honestly thought about this book so many times since I finished it, it's just SO GOOD 😩
“That, Commander, is the kind of love gods tear rifts through time and space for.”
I will definitely be reading whatever CB Woods writes in the future, I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book!
Add to TBR if you Enjoy:
🌠 30 yo FMC, 40ish MMC
✨ Princess x Commander
🌠 DRAGONS
✨ Unique World Building
🌠 Magic
✨ Banterrrr
🌠 Slow Burn
Thank you to CB Woods, NetGalley and Emrae Publishing for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 4, 2025
Astra dreams of a better world where there are no monarchies and titles. As a Demi-goddess and a princess of the Lunar Court, she is determined to try and convince her mother to make these changes. After being exiled for a few years after an incident involving her fire magic her mother has called her back because the courts are about to go to war. After coming home Astra ends up in a marriage of convenience to help her court and her dreams of a better world, an unexpected tether, and realizing everything she has been told growing up is wrong.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The world-building was pretty easy to follow and I enjoyed the characters and seeing their development throughout the book. One thing that I wish there was more of is descriptions of the world as I struggled to picture some parts of it. If you like marriage of convenience, enemies to lovers, tension, celestial-themed worlds, magic, and dragons you should definitely check this book out.
Thank you so much NetGalley, Emrae Publishing, and CB Woods for an ARC of this book.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The world-building was pretty easy to follow and I enjoyed the characters and seeing their development throughout the book. One thing that I wish there was more of is descriptions of the world as I struggled to picture some parts of it. If you like marriage of convenience, enemies to lovers, tension, celestial-themed worlds, magic, and dragons you should definitely check this book out.
Thank you so much NetGalley, Emrae Publishing, and CB Woods for an ARC of this book.
February 28, 2025
3.25
What a wild ride!
This was enjoyable. I liked Astra's character. Of course I love Lux. Their chemistry was amazing. I even downloaded the bonus epilogue. The concept of the Tether intrigued me. Being pulled and bound to a person when everything in you screams for you to back away. Stolen glances. Gentle touches.
THE TENSION.. immaculate. Lux is such a gentlemen.
Found family was beautiful.
The celestial world I really liked. The different courts were interesting, though I wish we explored them more.
I'm interested to see what's in store for the next installment because I felt this one wrapped up pretty well.
What a wild ride!
This was enjoyable. I liked Astra's character. Of course I love Lux. Their chemistry was amazing. I even downloaded the bonus epilogue. The concept of the Tether intrigued me. Being pulled and bound to a person when everything in you screams for you to back away. Stolen glances. Gentle touches.
THE TENSION.. immaculate. Lux is such a gentlemen.
Found family was beautiful.
The celestial world I really liked. The different courts were interesting, though I wish we explored them more.
I'm interested to see what's in store for the next installment because I felt this one wrapped up pretty well.
February 2, 2025
Let me start by saying this book that I was approved by netgalley as an arc and it’s one I really wanted to read. This book did not disappoint. The characters were really good and the plot made you wonder what was next. I love the journey the FMC goes through and how there was so much to learn and discover on her way. Little did she know that not only did she find herself on the path to not just save her family but her people. It’s a book of the start of a huge change needed in a world of lies and the addiction of power. The importance of not being selfish and choosing the path that might not be the easiest but the right one. The pace of the book was good and I love her relationship with the male love interest. The ending wasn’t what how I thought it would end but it leaves the book off leading to the next part of her journey. I’m looking forward to it
April 24, 2025
⭐️3.8 Stars⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read Rift! This book was such a fun read and has a magic system I’ve never read before and it was cool reading a book with people ruling different planets!🪐 I wasn’t the biggest fan of the two main love interest but by the end of the book I really liked them and I loved the relationship between the Lunar Court sisters! The magic system could be confusing at times for me especially in the beginning, it eventually made more sense as I read on. The rebellion also confused me a little bit because it didn’t really explain much of some of the things they were rebelling against (beside the gods one which made sense). The ending has me excited for book two and seeing what will happen between all the characters and the war that’s about to break out. Thank you again to NetGalley!💕📚
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read Rift! This book was such a fun read and has a magic system I’ve never read before and it was cool reading a book with people ruling different planets!🪐 I wasn’t the biggest fan of the two main love interest but by the end of the book I really liked them and I loved the relationship between the Lunar Court sisters! The magic system could be confusing at times for me especially in the beginning, it eventually made more sense as I read on. The rebellion also confused me a little bit because it didn’t really explain much of some of the things they were rebelling against (beside the gods one which made sense). The ending has me excited for book two and seeing what will happen between all the characters and the war that’s about to break out. Thank you again to NetGalley!💕📚
February 20, 2025
"Please, Princess. I've bled for you before, I've no problem doing it again"
I went into this book coming off of a little reading slump, so it took me a little bit to get into it - but omg once I did I couldn't put it down!!
Rift is a celestial romance with a strong female lead, Astra, a Demi-goddess who wants to create a better world. She finds herself caught in a world of fated mates, and her connection with Lux *chef's kiss*. There are so many twists that I really had no idea what was coming next.
I'm not kidding when I say I was sat here with my feet kicking & giggling like a school girl the whole time reading this book lol! I cannot wait for the next one!!
Thank you to NetGalley & CB Woods for the ARC!
I went into this book coming off of a little reading slump, so it took me a little bit to get into it - but omg once I did I couldn't put it down!!
Rift is a celestial romance with a strong female lead, Astra, a Demi-goddess who wants to create a better world. She finds herself caught in a world of fated mates, and her connection with Lux *chef's kiss*. There are so many twists that I really had no idea what was coming next.
I'm not kidding when I say I was sat here with my feet kicking & giggling like a school girl the whole time reading this book lol! I cannot wait for the next one!!
Thank you to NetGalley & CB Woods for the ARC!
March 4, 2025
Publish date- 24th Feb
Thank you to the publisher and author for allowing me to read this e-arc in exchange for an honest review
Rating 3Stars
Romantasy
Tropes
Fated mates
enemies to lovers
Secrets & blood oaths
Celestial world
Strong FMC
This book definitely has uniqueness to it but I just really struggled to get through it. I'm not saying it was awful but it also wasn't amazing… it just didn't hit for me like it has for everyone else.
I did enjoy reading about world building and the love interest within the main characters but not so much anything else.
Thank you to the publisher and author for allowing me to read this e-arc in exchange for an honest review
Rating 3Stars
Romantasy
Tropes
Fated mates
enemies to lovers
Secrets & blood oaths
Celestial world
Strong FMC
This book definitely has uniqueness to it but I just really struggled to get through it. I'm not saying it was awful but it also wasn't amazing… it just didn't hit for me like it has for everyone else.
I did enjoy reading about world building and the love interest within the main characters but not so much anything else.
February 8, 2025
4.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Emrae Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book! All opinions are my own.
This book snuck up on me. I almost DNF’d it around the 10-15% mark because I was having so much trouble getting into it. It was a bit slow to start.
But once it started getting into the relationships is where I felt that the story really found its strength. The main relationship (Astra and Lux) was delicious and angsty, it hit especially hard starting around the 50% mark
The world and courts were really intriguing, but some world building and powers were a tiny bit lacking (not fully fleshed out, sorta halfway explained). For a debut story, however, I was blown away!
But once we were eased into the world, I fell in love with the Solar courts and their rulers. Can’t wait for the sequel!
Read if you love:
Fated mates
Inter-court intrigue
Let’s get the gang together to piss off some powerful beings
Thank you to NetGalley and Emrae Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book! All opinions are my own.
This book snuck up on me. I almost DNF’d it around the 10-15% mark because I was having so much trouble getting into it. It was a bit slow to start.
But once it started getting into the relationships is where I felt that the story really found its strength. The main relationship (Astra and Lux) was delicious and angsty, it hit especially hard starting around the 50% mark
The world and courts were really intriguing, but some world building and powers were a tiny bit lacking (not fully fleshed out, sorta halfway explained). For a debut story, however, I was blown away!
But once we were eased into the world, I fell in love with the Solar courts and their rulers. Can’t wait for the sequel!
Read if you love:
Fated mates
Inter-court intrigue
Let’s get the gang together to piss off some powerful beings
March 2, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, Emrae Publishing and CB Woods for an early copy of this book for review.
Astra is a Lunar demi-goddess who dreams of a world of equality and rid of titles. Following a (literal) fiery incident, she is exiled to Ellume by her mother, the Lunar Queen. When she is called home to the Lunar Court by her mother, she is quickly thrust back into a world of politics where she has always felt out of place. She must make the difficult decision to make peace in a world she doesn’t feel she belongs or follow her intuition which has always gotten her in trouble.
A celestial-themed, magical world with political intrigue, bonded pairs (aka Tethers), strong female relationships, and a main character who just wants to make a difference? Sign me up.
I genuinely enjoyed watching the story unfold. I could feel the work that went into creating this world that feels like nothing I have read before. I loved that the main characters are all older, as in 30+ years which is rare in the fantasy world. I loved that the tension, the slow burn, the growth of each character. I loved that none of the characters lost themselves.
Astra is a relatable character despite wielding magic in a fantastical world. She spent her life feeling misunderstood and alone in a world that wasn’t ready for her, overwhelmed with a power that everyone tried to stamp out of her. And despite all the hurdles, all the times she was made to feel small and foolish, she pushed through the pain and made a difference. And when she got pulled back into the world that quickly threw her out years before, she still made a deal to marry the Mecurian King if it meant continuing to better the world. Astra has my heart.
This story explored the complexities of family dynamics, both blood and found families. The relationships were well written, thoughtfully developed.
The relationship between Astra and Luxuros was a slow burn with bickering and yearning and everything in between. They went through all the varying stages of a developing romance and at no point did it feel rushed.
My only issue with Rift was the writing, it felt overworked at times. If my rating was solely based on story this would have been a quick and easy 5 star, but the writing left something to be desired. I think this could easily be fixed with an extra round of edits and a more critical eye to make the story flow a bit better. I will absolutely be following this series because there is no way I’m missing out on the rebellion.
Astra is a Lunar demi-goddess who dreams of a world of equality and rid of titles. Following a (literal) fiery incident, she is exiled to Ellume by her mother, the Lunar Queen. When she is called home to the Lunar Court by her mother, she is quickly thrust back into a world of politics where she has always felt out of place. She must make the difficult decision to make peace in a world she doesn’t feel she belongs or follow her intuition which has always gotten her in trouble.
A celestial-themed, magical world with political intrigue, bonded pairs (aka Tethers), strong female relationships, and a main character who just wants to make a difference? Sign me up.
I genuinely enjoyed watching the story unfold. I could feel the work that went into creating this world that feels like nothing I have read before. I loved that the main characters are all older, as in 30+ years which is rare in the fantasy world. I loved that the tension, the slow burn, the growth of each character. I loved that none of the characters lost themselves.
Astra is a relatable character despite wielding magic in a fantastical world. She spent her life feeling misunderstood and alone in a world that wasn’t ready for her, overwhelmed with a power that everyone tried to stamp out of her. And despite all the hurdles, all the times she was made to feel small and foolish, she pushed through the pain and made a difference. And when she got pulled back into the world that quickly threw her out years before, she still made a deal to marry the Mecurian King if it meant continuing to better the world. Astra has my heart.
This story explored the complexities of family dynamics, both blood and found families. The relationships were well written, thoughtfully developed.
The relationship between Astra and Luxuros was a slow burn with bickering and yearning and everything in between. They went through all the varying stages of a developing romance and at no point did it feel rushed.
My only issue with Rift was the writing, it felt overworked at times. If my rating was solely based on story this would have been a quick and easy 5 star, but the writing left something to be desired. I think this could easily be fixed with an extra round of edits and a more critical eye to make the story flow a bit better. I will absolutely be following this series because there is no way I’m missing out on the rebellion.
February 4, 2025
i love astra so much, she's such a badass. loved the slow burn, enemies-to-lovers romance, so nothing felt too rushed. my only problem is that i feel like the writing can be a lil confusing at times, especially in the beginning. but once you get through it, it gets better.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2025
I really enjoyed this story about Astra, a princess/demigoddess in the Lunar Court who has been exiled for using her fire powers, an action her mother, the Queen, has banned from her court. Astra dreams of a better world, one built upon community and equality, as opposed to being born of privilege and wealth, and her story here begins when her mother forces Astra to return to court, which begins an unraveling of mysteries several decades in the making. Many favorite tropes are here, including (not quite) enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, one bed and forbidden romance. The magical system here is fresh and unique, and the world building complex.
My one critique of the book is in that world building, actually, in that while it has been richly woven, the delivery is oftentimes excessively complicated, which left me scratching my head at times. I’m hoping some of those holes will be patched up in the next book(s) as well. Regardless, I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and CB Woods for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
My one critique of the book is in that world building, actually, in that while it has been richly woven, the delivery is oftentimes excessively complicated, which left me scratching my head at times. I’m hoping some of those holes will be patched up in the next book(s) as well. Regardless, I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and CB Woods for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2025
ARC read thanks to Netgalley
I throughly enjoyed this book!
CB Woods created a magical celestial world incorporating figures we hear tales and fables about into the story.
The enemies to lovers and forbidden love really hits the spot. The sparks flying between the FMC and MMC were addictive.
There were some great twists and turns, some I had an inclination about but I am okay with that as the story was well thought out and captivating.
It took me a minute to get my head around the writing style and understand the political system but the pay off at the end is so worth it. It’s setting us up ready for the second book.
I throughly enjoyed this book!
CB Woods created a magical celestial world incorporating figures we hear tales and fables about into the story.
The enemies to lovers and forbidden love really hits the spot. The sparks flying between the FMC and MMC were addictive.
There were some great twists and turns, some I had an inclination about but I am okay with that as the story was well thought out and captivating.
It took me a minute to get my head around the writing style and understand the political system but the pay off at the end is so worth it. It’s setting us up ready for the second book.
May 15, 2025
I really enjoyed Rift! The world and the concept is what grabbed me right from the start. It felt unique and immersive and unlike anything I had read before.
I did struggle a bit at first to get into it. I found the dialogue a little bit sticky at times and I tend to prefer the start of a story be quite fast paced (at least in the beginning) and I struggled to connect with the characters from the get go.
Overall I think this author is definitely one to watch and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
I did struggle a bit at first to get into it. I found the dialogue a little bit sticky at times and I tend to prefer the start of a story be quite fast paced (at least in the beginning) and I struggled to connect with the characters from the get go.
Overall I think this author is definitely one to watch and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
February 11, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and CB Woods for the ARC!
Astra is an exiled fiery princess from the Lunar Court who has made a name for herself in the thriving village of Celene. After an urgent summons from her mother, the icy, detached Queen of the Lunar Court, Astra reluctantly makes her way back home after three years and is thrust into a whirlwind of political plots, a looming war with the Solan court, and is only uncovering more and more mysteries as she tries to uncover the truth about the past. Refusing to follow the predetermined path her mother has laid out for her, Astra ties herself to the King of Mercury in order to pave her own way. Although the Mercurian King surprises Astra by holding the same dreams of a free court, she can't get her mind off his looming Commander, Luxuros, a mysterious man with his own troubled past. Together, they embark on an epic journey to uncover the truth, overthrow the traditions of a long established system that takes advantage of its people, and discover love, identity, and that everything they thought they knew was a lie.
I don't even know where to begin with this stellar novel! I absolutely loved it and was pulled in from the very first page. This was such a refreshing read with original ideas and a world-building that I feel rivals some pretty big current authors like SJM and Jennifer Armentrout. CB Wood's writing is so immersive and dream-like I felt I was right there traversing the Rift with Astra and co. Her descriptions are tantalizing and her magic system is unique and new. Astra is also a very refreshing female lead, she is strong and passionate, but is also selfless and really cares about others. She is a very grounded, real character and I can seeing her being the next It Girl in romantasy.
I really have to give credit to the care with which this novel was written. I feel like nowadays it's really hard to find a romantasy that packs a punch and makes the characters and their world feel real and make sense. The slowburn was beautifully done, it wasn't cheesy, there was so much delicious tension and "will they/won't they", and the payoff was everything I wanted it to be as a reader. The plot is also so well thought-out and goes farther than expected. There were twists and turns and a surprising amount of layers that I wasn't expecting, but delighted to discover. I really appreciate that CB Woods wrote as a "show-er" and not a "tell-er". It was very satisfying to learn how the world worked just by being alongside Astra in her journey rather than just info-dumping. Probably my most favorite thing about her writing.
I also love the complexity of the relationships we see in this book. CB writes a compelling romance, but definitely just as important is the relationship we see between Astra and her mother, the bond between sisters, what truly makes family and that it is not always blood, and also the relationship Astra has with herself and her identity. I can't believe the depth we saw in all of these facets of relationships in just one novel, and it didn't feel rushed or bogged down because of it, but elevated the story even more.
I could really go on and on about everything I loved, but you'll just have to read it to see what I mean! If I had to give a critique (besides having to wait until 2026 for book 2!!) I did feel that at points the explanation of a few things were a little confusing, such as what is Astra actually doing when she is tampering down Solan heat, and I do wish there was more of a moment for Astra's character development where she is like "oh maybe I don't know everything" but honestly these are such minor things that didn't take away from the book at all.
Read this book if you love a truly well-written romantasy story with a fully fleshed out plot and immersive world building that will having you dying for more. This is for fans of slow-burn, political intrigue, adventure, mystery, and all the twists and turns along the way. I can't wait to purchase a physical copy when it comes out, and I'll be anxiously waiting for the sequel!
Astra is an exiled fiery princess from the Lunar Court who has made a name for herself in the thriving village of Celene. After an urgent summons from her mother, the icy, detached Queen of the Lunar Court, Astra reluctantly makes her way back home after three years and is thrust into a whirlwind of political plots, a looming war with the Solan court, and is only uncovering more and more mysteries as she tries to uncover the truth about the past. Refusing to follow the predetermined path her mother has laid out for her, Astra ties herself to the King of Mercury in order to pave her own way. Although the Mercurian King surprises Astra by holding the same dreams of a free court, she can't get her mind off his looming Commander, Luxuros, a mysterious man with his own troubled past. Together, they embark on an epic journey to uncover the truth, overthrow the traditions of a long established system that takes advantage of its people, and discover love, identity, and that everything they thought they knew was a lie.
I don't even know where to begin with this stellar novel! I absolutely loved it and was pulled in from the very first page. This was such a refreshing read with original ideas and a world-building that I feel rivals some pretty big current authors like SJM and Jennifer Armentrout. CB Wood's writing is so immersive and dream-like I felt I was right there traversing the Rift with Astra and co. Her descriptions are tantalizing and her magic system is unique and new. Astra is also a very refreshing female lead, she is strong and passionate, but is also selfless and really cares about others. She is a very grounded, real character and I can seeing her being the next It Girl in romantasy.
I really have to give credit to the care with which this novel was written. I feel like nowadays it's really hard to find a romantasy that packs a punch and makes the characters and their world feel real and make sense. The slowburn was beautifully done, it wasn't cheesy, there was so much delicious tension and "will they/won't they", and the payoff was everything I wanted it to be as a reader. The plot is also so well thought-out and goes farther than expected. There were twists and turns and a surprising amount of layers that I wasn't expecting, but delighted to discover. I really appreciate that CB Woods wrote as a "show-er" and not a "tell-er". It was very satisfying to learn how the world worked just by being alongside Astra in her journey rather than just info-dumping. Probably my most favorite thing about her writing.
I also love the complexity of the relationships we see in this book. CB writes a compelling romance, but definitely just as important is the relationship we see between Astra and her mother, the bond between sisters, what truly makes family and that it is not always blood, and also the relationship Astra has with herself and her identity. I can't believe the depth we saw in all of these facets of relationships in just one novel, and it didn't feel rushed or bogged down because of it, but elevated the story even more.
I could really go on and on about everything I loved, but you'll just have to read it to see what I mean! If I had to give a critique (besides having to wait until 2026 for book 2!!) I did feel that at points the explanation of a few things were a little confusing, such as what is Astra actually doing when she is tampering down Solan heat, and I do wish there was more of a moment for Astra's character development where she is like "oh maybe I don't know everything" but honestly these are such minor things that didn't take away from the book at all.
Read this book if you love a truly well-written romantasy story with a fully fleshed out plot and immersive world building that will having you dying for more. This is for fans of slow-burn, political intrigue, adventure, mystery, and all the twists and turns along the way. I can't wait to purchase a physical copy when it comes out, and I'll be anxiously waiting for the sequel!
February 12, 2025
So thank you, NetGalley, Emrae Publishing, and CB Woods, for an early copy of this book for an honest review.
Now, this is one of the easiest 5 stars in my life. Where do I even begin?
I guess... firstly? I AM YELLING AND ABSOLUTELY FERAL FOR THIS BOOK. LIKE EXCUSE ME? WHAT GAVE IT THE RIGHT TO DO THIS TO MY HEART???
I'm sorry for this stream of conscious nonsense, but... I'm SHOOK. I went into this with reasonably high expectations, and it SHATTERED them. God, I just know I'm going to leave stuff out, and for that, I apologize, but I'm gonna do my best.
This is something really special. If I were to liken it to anything, it would be like Sailor Moon meets Game of Thrones meets The Witchlands series by Susan Dennard.
Also, forget Enemies to Lovers. This book. THIS BOOK! It has my favorite trope of all. Idiots to Lovers, which, in my humble opinion, is the infinitely superior trope. I was living my best life reading the words on these pages.
The characters were phenomenal, and I've said it once; I've said it 1,000 times. In this house, we love complex and flawed characters, but we also accept perfect characters too. There was no shortage of either, and I am so grateful for the interesting push and pull of everyone's dynamics.
Lunelle and Ameera have never done a god damned thing wrong in their whole lives, and I live for them.
NAYSAN??? BEST DAD EVER!
Ostera... Girl... I like you, but you are on thin fucking ice.
THE LUNAR ELF QUEEN.
Mirquios!!! What a good guy! I loved all the twists and turns with him, especially with *his* love interest. I'd say more, but spoilers... >:3
ALASTAIR
Oh!!! Also! Lmao poor Arcas just existing and trying his best. I see you, buddy. It'll be okay XD
Finally, Astra and Luxuros, chef's kiss, you perfect pair, you. I have not been this amped about a ship in YEARS. ***Chapter 30*** omg, like I knew, I did know *it* and even though I knew it and saw it coming. I did not care. That is the most angsty, delicious confession ever. I am forever grateful for their bickering, witty banter, protectiveness, NOT possessiveness over each other. I could not have asked for more. Also, lest I forget to mention the medium spicy slow burn!!! 🔥
Now, I am in AWE of the lore, world-building, magical system, and socioeconomic/political systems. It's such a cool, rich world.
I have one nitpicky criticism, which is that it was a bit clunky at times, especially in the beginning, but genuinely, it was not enough of an issue to hinder the book as a whole.
I cannot wait for the novella and the second book!!! I just wish this came in a physical copy, but I will happily settle with supporting the author and buy the digital copy as soon as it becomes available.
Now, this is one of the easiest 5 stars in my life. Where do I even begin?
I guess... firstly? I AM YELLING AND ABSOLUTELY FERAL FOR THIS BOOK. LIKE EXCUSE ME? WHAT GAVE IT THE RIGHT TO DO THIS TO MY HEART???
I'm sorry for this stream of conscious nonsense, but... I'm SHOOK. I went into this with reasonably high expectations, and it SHATTERED them. God, I just know I'm going to leave stuff out, and for that, I apologize, but I'm gonna do my best.
This is something really special. If I were to liken it to anything, it would be like Sailor Moon meets Game of Thrones meets The Witchlands series by Susan Dennard.
Also, forget Enemies to Lovers. This book. THIS BOOK! It has my favorite trope of all. Idiots to Lovers, which, in my humble opinion, is the infinitely superior trope. I was living my best life reading the words on these pages.
The characters were phenomenal, and I've said it once; I've said it 1,000 times. In this house, we love complex and flawed characters, but we also accept perfect characters too. There was no shortage of either, and I am so grateful for the interesting push and pull of everyone's dynamics.
Lunelle and Ameera have never done a god damned thing wrong in their whole lives, and I live for them.
NAYSAN??? BEST DAD EVER!
Ostera... Girl... I like you, but you are on thin fucking ice.
THE LUNAR ELF QUEEN.
Mirquios!!! What a good guy! I loved all the twists and turns with him, especially with *his* love interest. I'd say more, but spoilers... >:3
ALASTAIR
Oh!!! Also! Lmao poor Arcas just existing and trying his best. I see you, buddy. It'll be okay XD
Finally, Astra and Luxuros, chef's kiss, you perfect pair, you. I have not been this amped about a ship in YEARS. ***Chapter 30*** omg, like I knew, I did know *it* and even though I knew it and saw it coming. I did not care. That is the most angsty, delicious confession ever. I am forever grateful for their bickering, witty banter, protectiveness, NOT possessiveness over each other. I could not have asked for more. Also, lest I forget to mention the medium spicy slow burn!!! 🔥
Now, I am in AWE of the lore, world-building, magical system, and socioeconomic/political systems. It's such a cool, rich world.
I have one nitpicky criticism, which is that it was a bit clunky at times, especially in the beginning, but genuinely, it was not enough of an issue to hinder the book as a whole.
I cannot wait for the novella and the second book!!! I just wish this came in a physical copy, but I will happily settle with supporting the author and buy the digital copy as soon as it becomes available.
February 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, it took me a few pages to get into it, but once I did I really enjoyed the spin the author weaved. Astra is the second daughter of the Queen of the Lunar court and she feels like a huge disappointment to her mother and hates that she is a pawn in the court life game. Tale as old as time, right? She knows her mother is going to try to marry her off, so to take some control she and the King of Mercury decide they can learn to love each other and they set a plan in motion so that they will be the ones to marry. BUT like all good plans, things go awry. This book is a different spin on mythology and demigods and the courts are the planets. The way to travel between the separated courts is this beautiful pathway called the Rift. Astra is forbidden from going in it by her mother (we learn later in the book why) Astra is part of the Lunar court known for being cold and holding a tight rein on their emotions, but she burns with fire and emotions she has trouble containing, also she rides a dragon (which is pretty cool). They call her the Fire Princess and she is not known for keeping her emotions in check, her older sister on the other hand is always calm and collected. They can communicate inside their heads and Astra can also read people's emotions, but she has not been trained on how to block them out. She feels like her mother just doesn't understand her (doesn't every daughter have this stage they go through?). I loved that Astra was 30 in this book, that she is extremely close with her sister and her dad and her main lady in waiting Ameera. The friendships and relationships are very well developed. To complicate the plans Astra and the King make, movements of war happen almost immediately and we learn that sometimes there is this tricky little thing called a Tether that the gods use to tie souls to their other halves. Not everyone gets a tether and often time members of the court marry strategically. OF COURSE you know that means tethers come into play here and Astra and King Mirquios couldn't just tether with each other, where would the drama be. Add in Lux, the hot best friend and commander of the Mercurian military and toss in more rebels and a questionable and devious grandmother, thirty plus years of secrets, and meddling gods and you have yourself a book that keeps you glued to your seat while trying to unweave all of the knots in this woven tale. The book does not end on a cliffhanger (Thank you so much for this) but sets you up to want book two to hurry up so that you can see how the changes Astra wants to make to the kingdoms goes. All in all I recommend this book and look forward to the rest of the series.
February 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
Lunar demi-goddess Astra dreams of a world where title and rank mean nothing dangerous for someone a heartbeat away from the Lunar Throne. She had been exiled due to her fiery tendencies and beliefs and spent the last three years far away from the court's politics. However, when a mysterious object is found, her intuition earns her a summons, and she goes back to the palace and away from the community she helped build. Once she is back in the court, it is clear her mother only plans to use her as a bargain, so she strikes a deal with the King of Mercury. This deal, however, entangles her with the king’s commander, Luxurious.
I loved this book. I have said that a lot recently, but I am very invested in this world. I love the fantasy world CB Woods has built and the characters she has created. I am so invested in the world's politics and the character's happiness. I am obsessed with how the courts are all based on planets from our world with the most incredible magic system in place. I am so interested in how the Tethers work. I love it compared to how other fantasy world’s fated mates work. I am so excited for the next book because I genuinely cannot wait to see how Astra's story continues or where her sister Lunnelle’s story may go. I also cannot get over the slow-burn romance; I genuinely loved their story, especially the bickering and banter and how protective they are. I loved the world-building in this book, and I loved learning alongside our main character. It is my favorite way to learn about the world. The characters' growth and development are wonderful, and I love how the dynamics change between everyone. I just fell in love with this world and am so sad that I must wait for the next book. So much of it felt so relatable to how I feel now, and I have needed that lately.
🌖Fated Mates
🌗Court Politics
🌘Book 1 in Series
🌑Enemies to Lovers
🌒Priness x Commander
🌓Forbidden Love
🌔Slow Burn
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
Lunar demi-goddess Astra dreams of a world where title and rank mean nothing dangerous for someone a heartbeat away from the Lunar Throne. She had been exiled due to her fiery tendencies and beliefs and spent the last three years far away from the court's politics. However, when a mysterious object is found, her intuition earns her a summons, and she goes back to the palace and away from the community she helped build. Once she is back in the court, it is clear her mother only plans to use her as a bargain, so she strikes a deal with the King of Mercury. This deal, however, entangles her with the king’s commander, Luxurious.
I loved this book. I have said that a lot recently, but I am very invested in this world. I love the fantasy world CB Woods has built and the characters she has created. I am so invested in the world's politics and the character's happiness. I am obsessed with how the courts are all based on planets from our world with the most incredible magic system in place. I am so interested in how the Tethers work. I love it compared to how other fantasy world’s fated mates work. I am so excited for the next book because I genuinely cannot wait to see how Astra's story continues or where her sister Lunnelle’s story may go. I also cannot get over the slow-burn romance; I genuinely loved their story, especially the bickering and banter and how protective they are. I loved the world-building in this book, and I loved learning alongside our main character. It is my favorite way to learn about the world. The characters' growth and development are wonderful, and I love how the dynamics change between everyone. I just fell in love with this world and am so sad that I must wait for the next book. So much of it felt so relatable to how I feel now, and I have needed that lately.
🌖Fated Mates
🌗Court Politics
🌘Book 1 in Series
🌑Enemies to Lovers
🌒Priness x Commander
🌓Forbidden Love
🌔Slow Burn
March 1, 2025
Rift by C.B. Woods is a spellbinding romantasy filled with celestial courts, tangled fates, and a slow-burning love story that defies gods and destiny alike.
From the first page, I was captivated by the rich world-building—each court aligned with planetary influences and distinct magical abilities, with the Lunar Court standing out for its deep intuition and political complexity. Astra, a fierce and determined FMC, carries the weight of her lineage and exile, making her return to court all the more compelling. The courtly intrigue is layered and gripping, with hidden betrayals and long-buried secrets that unravel in unexpected ways.
Astra’s dynamic with her sister Lunelle was a standout for me—one of the strongest and most heartfelt sibling bonds I’ve read in a while. Their relationship added emotional depth amid the high-stakes tension of looming war and forced alliances. And speaking of relationships, the slow-burn, forbidden romance between Astra and Luxuros (Lux) is filled with tension, banter, and an irresistible push-pull dynamic. The fated mate trope is used in a way that feels fresh, adding complexity rather than convenience.
At 30+ years old, Astra and Lux bring a level of maturity and depth that I really appreciated in a genre often dominated by younger protagonists.
Recommended for fans of celestial magic, political intrigue, and lovers who battle both fate and gods to carve their own paths.
From the first page, I was captivated by the rich world-building—each court aligned with planetary influences and distinct magical abilities, with the Lunar Court standing out for its deep intuition and political complexity. Astra, a fierce and determined FMC, carries the weight of her lineage and exile, making her return to court all the more compelling. The courtly intrigue is layered and gripping, with hidden betrayals and long-buried secrets that unravel in unexpected ways.
Astra’s dynamic with her sister Lunelle was a standout for me—one of the strongest and most heartfelt sibling bonds I’ve read in a while. Their relationship added emotional depth amid the high-stakes tension of looming war and forced alliances. And speaking of relationships, the slow-burn, forbidden romance between Astra and Luxuros (Lux) is filled with tension, banter, and an irresistible push-pull dynamic. The fated mate trope is used in a way that feels fresh, adding complexity rather than convenience.
At 30+ years old, Astra and Lux bring a level of maturity and depth that I really appreciated in a genre often dominated by younger protagonists.
Recommended for fans of celestial magic, political intrigue, and lovers who battle both fate and gods to carve their own paths.
February 3, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for an Arc copy of this story. The following is an honest review.
Astra is a princess in exile. After a heated instance that caused her powers to burn hot she’s landed herself far away from the Lunar court. Astra has made a satisfying life for herself and isn’t unhappy to be away from stifling court duties. She was never one to uphold the inequitable ways of monarch life.
When an unwelcome summons forces her hand she must head back to the Lunar Court.
Rift has a unique feel to many aspects of the story!
One of the biggest appeals was the fascinating magic capabilities of Astra herself. The capabilities of an empath brought to life as a true power, instead of the burden it’s often painted as! It was empowering to see that empathy is a gift, if you can learn the necessary skills to use the colors presented to you!
The celestial settings, and the idea that many magical deities exist in a between space, allowed for a beautiful landscape, I loved that.
I absolutely adored the ups and downs of the mother daughter relationships that were depicted. So many mothers make silent sacrifices, that will never see the light of day!
There were so many interesting side characters, with a lot of stories that could be fun to dive into!
The main romantic relationship of the story has a major hang up that keeps it coming to fruition. This hang up feels thin. Like the weight given to the cause for them not to be together is unfounded. Basically, political propaganda keeps a wedge between them. The stakes didn’t feel like enough to warrant them being apart, for me. I don’t hold stake in something someone else tells me to believe. To Astra’s credit, she didn’t hold onto the notion much either.
The pacing of the story didn’t feel steady. More often than not, I was waiting for something of weight to happen, especially in the beginning of the book. This is definitely a slow to start type of story. Things pick up at the end, but it was a struggle to get into.
I felt lost when it came to the transitions of character’s movements within the book. One moment a character is in one location in a room and there’s no indication that they’ve moved. The next sentence has them not in a chair, but where they’d have to be in a bed. I found myself going back over paragraphs more than once to see what I missed. As a visual reader it through me off. A few POV issues did as well.
Overall this is an enjoyable Romantasy with plus sized bi representation! We can never have enough of that! If you’re into celestial vibes and have a rebel spirit you’ll enjoy this book!
Astra is a princess in exile. After a heated instance that caused her powers to burn hot she’s landed herself far away from the Lunar court. Astra has made a satisfying life for herself and isn’t unhappy to be away from stifling court duties. She was never one to uphold the inequitable ways of monarch life.
When an unwelcome summons forces her hand she must head back to the Lunar Court.
Rift has a unique feel to many aspects of the story!
One of the biggest appeals was the fascinating magic capabilities of Astra herself. The capabilities of an empath brought to life as a true power, instead of the burden it’s often painted as! It was empowering to see that empathy is a gift, if you can learn the necessary skills to use the colors presented to you!
The celestial settings, and the idea that many magical deities exist in a between space, allowed for a beautiful landscape, I loved that.
I absolutely adored the ups and downs of the mother daughter relationships that were depicted. So many mothers make silent sacrifices, that will never see the light of day!
There were so many interesting side characters, with a lot of stories that could be fun to dive into!
The main romantic relationship of the story has a major hang up that keeps it coming to fruition. This hang up feels thin. Like the weight given to the cause for them not to be together is unfounded. Basically, political propaganda keeps a wedge between them. The stakes didn’t feel like enough to warrant them being apart, for me. I don’t hold stake in something someone else tells me to believe. To Astra’s credit, she didn’t hold onto the notion much either.
The pacing of the story didn’t feel steady. More often than not, I was waiting for something of weight to happen, especially in the beginning of the book. This is definitely a slow to start type of story. Things pick up at the end, but it was a struggle to get into.
I felt lost when it came to the transitions of character’s movements within the book. One moment a character is in one location in a room and there’s no indication that they’ve moved. The next sentence has them not in a chair, but where they’d have to be in a bed. I found myself going back over paragraphs more than once to see what I missed. As a visual reader it through me off. A few POV issues did as well.
Overall this is an enjoyable Romantasy with plus sized bi representation! We can never have enough of that! If you’re into celestial vibes and have a rebel spirit you’ll enjoy this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
The first book in a series and the author’s debut novel, Rift tells the story of Astra, a rebellious Lunar Demi-Goddess and her determination to restore justice and equality in a universe run by greed and power.
The story takes place in a celestial setting which I found to be very unique. The magic system and powers of the characters were also components I hadn’t come across before. I probably would have liked and benefited from a little more detail in the world building, there was a lot of trying to figure things out along the way and that caused some frustration and reluctance to keep reading. It’s very obvious the author knows her world well, but it shouldn’t be assumed the reader can catch on as quick.
I loved the feminine rage and strong female characters (and of course the male characters.) Even though the characters were well and truly adults from the beginning of the story, they were well-developed.
The enemies to lovers trope was done well and my gosh, the slow burn was a true slow burn! So much angst and tension! And I loved the dreams! If you know, you know.
Overall, a good read that has everything from fantasy to romance to politics and war, not to mention a very unique setting and magic system, with a few plot twists thrown in. I would however recommend it go through another couple of editing sessions as there was a lot of parts that did not flow, seemed to jump and skip information etc also, while the story is written in third person, I got the impression it was once written in first person due to coming across “me” and “we” in the narrator’s section.
Thank you to NetGalley and Emrae Publishing for providing an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
The first book in a series and the author’s debut novel, Rift tells the story of Astra, a rebellious Lunar Demi-Goddess and her determination to restore justice and equality in a universe run by greed and power.
The story takes place in a celestial setting which I found to be very unique. The magic system and powers of the characters were also components I hadn’t come across before. I probably would have liked and benefited from a little more detail in the world building, there was a lot of trying to figure things out along the way and that caused some frustration and reluctance to keep reading. It’s very obvious the author knows her world well, but it shouldn’t be assumed the reader can catch on as quick.
I loved the feminine rage and strong female characters (and of course the male characters.) Even though the characters were well and truly adults from the beginning of the story, they were well-developed.
The enemies to lovers trope was done well and my gosh, the slow burn was a true slow burn! So much angst and tension! And I loved the dreams! If you know, you know.
Overall, a good read that has everything from fantasy to romance to politics and war, not to mention a very unique setting and magic system, with a few plot twists thrown in. I would however recommend it go through another couple of editing sessions as there was a lot of parts that did not flow, seemed to jump and skip information etc also, while the story is written in third person, I got the impression it was once written in first person due to coming across “me” and “we” in the narrator’s section.
Thank you to NetGalley and Emrae Publishing for providing an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2025
I will forever be a romantasy fan, nothing can change my mind. I was super excited to receive an ARC for this book. Fated Mates, courts, high stakes. This sounded perfect for me. While there ended up being parts of this book that I absolutely loved, there were some parts that I found it hard to get into.
For the first I want to say 25% of this book I was mostly stuck in a state of confusion. There was so much information thrown at me that I found it hard to absorb. I had a really hard time wanting to really get into this story at first. There was however parts once the story gets a bit more fluent that I was in love with. I found the world building and politics to be super rough but the relationships and character building were amazing. The banter and tension between all the characters really brought this story to life for me.
I am however excited to see this story continue once the next book comes out. While I feel like I struggled with reading this one I am still really interested in where it will go and how the characters will carry on.
Thank you CB Woods, Emrae Publishing and NetGalley for accepting me to ARC read this book!
For the first I want to say 25% of this book I was mostly stuck in a state of confusion. There was so much information thrown at me that I found it hard to absorb. I had a really hard time wanting to really get into this story at first. There was however parts once the story gets a bit more fluent that I was in love with. I found the world building and politics to be super rough but the relationships and character building were amazing. The banter and tension between all the characters really brought this story to life for me.
I am however excited to see this story continue once the next book comes out. While I feel like I struggled with reading this one I am still really interested in where it will go and how the characters will carry on.
Thank you CB Woods, Emrae Publishing and NetGalley for accepting me to ARC read this book!
February 5, 2025
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It was a bit confusing at times but the love story at the heart really kept me hooked. The longing and the tension was so well written.
I really liked the FMC. You could really feel the resentment she has towards her mum, the throne & what it represents. I liked that she says what she means, she cares about the realm and its people and she tries not to be ashamed of her gifts despite not being in control.
The MMC Lux is really likeable. He puts those he loves before himself and has a past that even he isn't sure about.
The plot is good. It's really well paced, we learn a lot about all the different courts, the gods / goddesses, and kings & queens.
I did find that I still didn't quite understand the hierarchy all that well. There's so many different kings, queens, goddesses, gods, realms, the nether world, then people ascend but does that mean they die? It did get confusing in parts.
The tension and longing between the FMC & MMC is so well written. You could feel it. The dream scenes were brilliant and romance was one of my favourite parts. There was a scene in chapter 35 that made my heart actually ache. Even the love story of Astra's parents is beautiful.
I liked the side characters. Lunelle and Mirquios really add to the story. I'm excited to see there's a novella coming out about their time in Pluto!
The magic system is really interesting. I really like that Astra can see people's emotions / feelings through colours.
The political intrigue, complicated relations between the rulers & the people, and the relations between realms add to the story.
I am looking forward to continuing the series when the next book is out. I hope we see Lux's past / lineage explored in more detail as this is such an interesting part of the story!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the arc. This is my own honest review of this book.
I really liked the FMC. You could really feel the resentment she has towards her mum, the throne & what it represents. I liked that she says what she means, she cares about the realm and its people and she tries not to be ashamed of her gifts despite not being in control.
The MMC Lux is really likeable. He puts those he loves before himself and has a past that even he isn't sure about.
The plot is good. It's really well paced, we learn a lot about all the different courts, the gods / goddesses, and kings & queens.
I did find that I still didn't quite understand the hierarchy all that well. There's so many different kings, queens, goddesses, gods, realms, the nether world, then people ascend but does that mean they die? It did get confusing in parts.
The tension and longing between the FMC & MMC is so well written. You could feel it. The dream scenes were brilliant and romance was one of my favourite parts. There was a scene in chapter 35 that made my heart actually ache. Even the love story of Astra's parents is beautiful.
I liked the side characters. Lunelle and Mirquios really add to the story. I'm excited to see there's a novella coming out about their time in Pluto!
The magic system is really interesting. I really like that Astra can see people's emotions / feelings through colours.
The political intrigue, complicated relations between the rulers & the people, and the relations between realms add to the story.
I am looking forward to continuing the series when the next book is out. I hope we see Lux's past / lineage explored in more detail as this is such an interesting part of the story!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the arc. This is my own honest review of this book.
February 11, 2025
Astra is the rebellious younger daughter of the Lunar Court and she fit her part so well, running around doing her own thing and letting her sister Lunelle shoulder the responsibility. She’s not selfish though, she’s focused on positive change in her court. She and Lunelle are best friends and their relationship is written so well.
Luxuros is stubborn and tough on Astra but also easy to love.
I loved the cosmic setting of this world, with the planetary theme for the Courts and the Rift, the stream of travel used to go between courts.
The writing was good, straight forward, easy to read, but there was the odd bit here or there that felt a tiny bit out of place - it was written in 3rd person but from Astra’s POV and every so often there was a comment about what Lux was thinking or feeling. Not sure if it was intentional.
I liked the plot, this is a romantasy with so much more happening thanks to the political unrest in the courts. I feel like things made sense and flowed well.
I really enjoyed this - for some reason I wasn’t expecting it to be so politically motivated and I loved that extra layer! I am definitely going to be watching for the next instalment, Rift had an epic feel and I think things will only get bigger in book 2.
February 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for approving an arc copy of this book!
The book follows Lunar Demi-Goddess Astra who exiled from court by her mother the Lunar Queen due to her fiery behaviour and has spent the past few years building a community.
When she is summoned back to court, despite the fact that Astra wants to return the community she has spent the past few years building, instead mother wants to use her as a bargaining tool to secure alliances and Astra finds herself in a world/court of politics. Astra wants to be the decider of her own fate so she makes a deal to wed the King of Mercury. This puts her in the path of the commander Luxuros. With war is impending between courts, Astra and Luxuros are thrust together and begin uncovering secrets and betrayals. Some are secrets about the Gods who watch over them all and some are family betrayals, all of which she must uncover to protect the people she loves.
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Enemies to Lovers
Court politics
Slow burn
Fated love/relationships
Celestial world
Magic
Gods/Goddesses
Secrets & betrayal
What a fantastic read! The world building is incredible and so detailed. The celestial world is unlike anything I’ve read in romantasy books before. Starts off slow but once it gets into it, it’s incredible and I hated having to put it down. The court politics, all the secrets and the slowwww burn enemies to lovers, the tension 🔥 I loved that the focus wasn’t just on the main FMC, that we got to see so much of the other characters too.
I can’t wait for the next book to continue the story!!
The book follows Lunar Demi-Goddess Astra who exiled from court by her mother the Lunar Queen due to her fiery behaviour and has spent the past few years building a community.
When she is summoned back to court, despite the fact that Astra wants to return the community she has spent the past few years building, instead mother wants to use her as a bargaining tool to secure alliances and Astra finds herself in a world/court of politics. Astra wants to be the decider of her own fate so she makes a deal to wed the King of Mercury. This puts her in the path of the commander Luxuros. With war is impending between courts, Astra and Luxuros are thrust together and begin uncovering secrets and betrayals. Some are secrets about the Gods who watch over them all and some are family betrayals, all of which she must uncover to protect the people she loves.
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Enemies to Lovers
Court politics
Slow burn
Fated love/relationships
Celestial world
Magic
Gods/Goddesses
Secrets & betrayal
What a fantastic read! The world building is incredible and so detailed. The celestial world is unlike anything I’ve read in romantasy books before. Starts off slow but once it gets into it, it’s incredible and I hated having to put it down. The court politics, all the secrets and the slowwww burn enemies to lovers, the tension 🔥 I loved that the focus wasn’t just on the main FMC, that we got to see so much of the other characters too.
I can’t wait for the next book to continue the story!!
February 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Dreams don’t do the truth of you justice”
This book has it all. The complex detailed world, unique political system, magic structure and layered detailed characters with a beautiful plot line.
Following Astra as she navigates her world, her role in it and how to fight for the people she loves was such a treat. Following the romance of her and Lux was a slow burn that had me turning page after page. It was flawless: whitty banter, organic growth and just enough spice to keep me hooked. Astra and Lux are one of my favorite ships in quite some time.
While the beginning of the book drops you head first into the world, it is quickly explained and easy to follow. I devoured this read and I cannot wait for the novella and next book in the series. This is a phenomenal five star read for me!
Thank you to NetGalley, Emrae Publishing, and CB Woods, for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
February 17, 2025
ARC read!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and CB Woods for allowing me to read this book! I loved getting to read this book!!!
THE PLOT?! THE WORLD BUILDING?! THE ROMANCE?! THE TENSION?!
Ugh this book!!!
Honestly might just be one of my favourite reads! The twists and turns were absolutely amazing. I love this world so much and love the characters!
The level of tension between As and Lux!!! Ugh so so good!
Astra?? Such a strong and powerful lead i absolutely loved her and reading about her journey. She’s such a badass!!!!
Lux!!! THIS MAN. The tension between these two! *chefs kiss*
I NEED the next book!!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and CB Woods for allowing me to read this book! I loved getting to read this book!!!
THE PLOT?! THE WORLD BUILDING?! THE ROMANCE?! THE TENSION?!
Ugh this book!!!
Honestly might just be one of my favourite reads! The twists and turns were absolutely amazing. I love this world so much and love the characters!
The level of tension between As and Lux!!! Ugh so so good!
Astra?? Such a strong and powerful lead i absolutely loved her and reading about her journey. She’s such a badass!!!!
Lux!!! THIS MAN. The tension between these two! *chefs kiss*
I NEED the next book!!
March 13, 2025
2.75 ⭐
It was, overall, enjoyable. The world-building is interesting and original, we got adult characters (FMC is 30 and MMC is in his late 30), even the side characters were nice to have around.
But I don't think this book is for me. The enemy side of the enemies to lovers wasn't enough for me (to me, it was more like 'we should hate each other because of what we are, and I'm annoyed by your presence' but nothing more) and the high stakes weren't high enough. But I enjoyed the author's writing, and I think many will enjoy this book more than I did.
Thank you Netgalley, Emrae Publishing and CB Woods for the ARC.
It was, overall, enjoyable. The world-building is interesting and original, we got adult characters (FMC is 30 and MMC is in his late 30), even the side characters were nice to have around.
But I don't think this book is for me. The enemy side of the enemies to lovers wasn't enough for me (to me, it was more like 'we should hate each other because of what we are, and I'm annoyed by your presence' but nothing more) and the high stakes weren't high enough. But I enjoyed the author's writing, and I think many will enjoy this book more than I did.
Thank you Netgalley, Emrae Publishing and CB Woods for the ARC.
February 7, 2025
Thank you to netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Demi-god Astra is summoned home to the Lunar Court by her mother after she was exiled for the last 3 years. She is thrown back into court politics and is fighting for equality. This story explores complex family dynamics and I loved every bit of it. It made me wish I had a sister to be so loyal to.
I like how the characters are in their 30s. It feels like a breath of fresh air compared to the younger characters in other romantasy novels. I absolutely love the celestial world. It feels so magical to read.
I find Astra to be so relatable and love her character. She is so strong for being misunderstood her whole life. Watching her grow and use her magic was so fun to read. I loved the banter between her and Luxuros. The tension between the two was so good.
The rebellion was my favorite part. I loved getting little snippets of what they were fighting to build and the ending was SO good. I think this needs another round of editing, there’s a few typos and some parts are over explained. Overall the story was amazing and I loved this. I can’t wait for the next one!
You’ll like this if you like
*Dragons
*Celestial themes
*Slow burn
*Strong FMC
*Fated mates
*He trains her
Demi-god Astra is summoned home to the Lunar Court by her mother after she was exiled for the last 3 years. She is thrown back into court politics and is fighting for equality. This story explores complex family dynamics and I loved every bit of it. It made me wish I had a sister to be so loyal to.
I like how the characters are in their 30s. It feels like a breath of fresh air compared to the younger characters in other romantasy novels. I absolutely love the celestial world. It feels so magical to read.
I find Astra to be so relatable and love her character. She is so strong for being misunderstood her whole life. Watching her grow and use her magic was so fun to read. I loved the banter between her and Luxuros. The tension between the two was so good.
The rebellion was my favorite part. I loved getting little snippets of what they were fighting to build and the ending was SO good. I think this needs another round of editing, there’s a few typos and some parts are over explained. Overall the story was amazing and I loved this. I can’t wait for the next one!
You’ll like this if you like
*Dragons
*Celestial themes
*Slow burn
*Strong FMC
*Fated mates
*He trains her
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