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When the Stars Were Devoured
The skies are darkening with rebellion in Noxia. A tyrannical king rules with madness and the only thing stopping him?
A Rebellion Leader
Civil war left everyone in the kingdom of Noxia both destitute and dejected, but Alora refuses to watch her people continue to suffer. Magic comes with a price, and with her power of illusion considered a rarity, she joins with the cause to assassinate the ruthless king. Alora quickly finds her plans derailed when she unexpectedly captures the king’s favored warrior and it becomes apparent that more than her freedom is on the line.
The Royal Executioner
With the power to destroy souls, The Devourer is as ruthless as his magic. As the king’s right hand killer, The Devourer must hunt down and eliminate every threat to the king’s reign. But when he finds himself captured by the very group he hunts, Kassiel will begin to question if his fate to be alone, is truly set, or if his hardened heart could actually begin to feel again.
When the Stars were Devoured is the first book in an adult fantasy romance series following a broody, morally grey warrior who loses more than just his freedom to the fierce woman who ensnares him.
A Rebellion Leader
Civil war left everyone in the kingdom of Noxia both destitute and dejected, but Alora refuses to watch her people continue to suffer. Magic comes with a price, and with her power of illusion considered a rarity, she joins with the cause to assassinate the ruthless king. Alora quickly finds her plans derailed when she unexpectedly captures the king’s favored warrior and it becomes apparent that more than her freedom is on the line.
The Royal Executioner
With the power to destroy souls, The Devourer is as ruthless as his magic. As the king’s right hand killer, The Devourer must hunt down and eliminate every threat to the king’s reign. But when he finds himself captured by the very group he hunts, Kassiel will begin to question if his fate to be alone, is truly set, or if his hardened heart could actually begin to feel again.
When the Stars were Devoured is the first book in an adult fantasy romance series following a broody, morally grey warrior who loses more than just his freedom to the fierce woman who ensnares him.
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Published February 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 11, 2026
Thank you so much Stephanie Blair for sending me this ARC!
When the Stars Were Devoured is the first book in a Fantasy Romance series and it’s so good, I loved Alora and Kassiel’s story!
Alora is a commander of a rebellion, but when during a mission she gets captured by the Devourer, the king’s cruel executioner, she is sentenced to be killed soon. Kassiel has no choice but to serve the king so he must execute Alora, but when a turn of events makes him her captive instead, they soon realize they aren’t what the other expected and can’t ignore the attraction and the surprising connection between them, but the king is chasing them and he’s not going to let them go.
I’ve been waiting quite a while for this book and getting more and more excited with each post from the author on Instagram and it was so worth the wait. The author created a truly fascinating story with perfectly paced plot that kept me on the edge of my seat and amazing characters I quickly fell in love with. Alora was such a strong FMC and I enjoyed reading her story, she didn’t have an easy life and wanted to help and save everyone and never gave up. Kassiel… he was a complicated MMC, morally grey with tragic backstory and my heart was breaking so much for him with everything he had been through and I loved him so much. His and Alora’s relationship was so beautiful, it was a true slow burn with enemies to lovers and I could feel the connection between them from the very beginning and he fell first which I always enjoy. I loved seeing them together and slowly starting to trust and open up to each other, they were truly perfect for each other and I already can’t wait to see them again, especially after what happened at the end, that cliffhanger is brutal and I need book 2 ASAP.
When the Stars Were Devoured is an amazing fantasy romance book, I loved it and recommend it to everyone. Can’t wait for book 2!
When the Stars Were Devoured is the first book in a Fantasy Romance series and it’s so good, I loved Alora and Kassiel’s story!
Alora is a commander of a rebellion, but when during a mission she gets captured by the Devourer, the king’s cruel executioner, she is sentenced to be killed soon. Kassiel has no choice but to serve the king so he must execute Alora, but when a turn of events makes him her captive instead, they soon realize they aren’t what the other expected and can’t ignore the attraction and the surprising connection between them, but the king is chasing them and he’s not going to let them go.
I’ve been waiting quite a while for this book and getting more and more excited with each post from the author on Instagram and it was so worth the wait. The author created a truly fascinating story with perfectly paced plot that kept me on the edge of my seat and amazing characters I quickly fell in love with. Alora was such a strong FMC and I enjoyed reading her story, she didn’t have an easy life and wanted to help and save everyone and never gave up. Kassiel… he was a complicated MMC, morally grey with tragic backstory and my heart was breaking so much for him with everything he had been through and I loved him so much. His and Alora’s relationship was so beautiful, it was a true slow burn with enemies to lovers and I could feel the connection between them from the very beginning and he fell first which I always enjoy. I loved seeing them together and slowly starting to trust and open up to each other, they were truly perfect for each other and I already can’t wait to see them again, especially after what happened at the end, that cliffhanger is brutal and I need book 2 ASAP.
When the Stars Were Devoured is an amazing fantasy romance book, I loved it and recommend it to everyone. Can’t wait for book 2!
February 12, 2026
I am screaming in Nick Miller and I can't wait for everyone to read this book!!
If you like your romance with a side of emotional devastation then this book is for you. If you like your MMC to straddle the line of morally black then this book is for you. If you like your FMC to turn the table and capture him then this book is for you. I you like beautifully crafted world and magic building the. This book is for you. If you like hilarious banter to take the edge off the traumance then this book is for you. If you like side characters that feel like main characters then this book is for you. If you like to feel the tension and yearning and angst then this book is for you. If you like that fuck it moment then this book is for you. If you like when there is one horse then this book is for you. If you like the bitter taste of betrayal but live for that redemption arc then this book is for you.
Stephanie has crafted characters that will make you cry, rage and laugh. She has written a world unlike any other and her beautiful prose will have you absolutely obsessed with the story. I can't wait for the next book.
Set aside some hours and lose yourself this book. When you think that all is lost and you have been betrayed and you want to rage at the characters and throw your kindle, just remember, love will always find a way and there is always a chance for redemption. This is an epic romantasy and the best part is being swept away by all the emotion. I'll be here for you when you finish, I can't wait to talk about this book!!!
If you like your romance with a side of emotional devastation then this book is for you. If you like your MMC to straddle the line of morally black then this book is for you. If you like your FMC to turn the table and capture him then this book is for you. I you like beautifully crafted world and magic building the. This book is for you. If you like hilarious banter to take the edge off the traumance then this book is for you. If you like side characters that feel like main characters then this book is for you. If you like to feel the tension and yearning and angst then this book is for you. If you like that fuck it moment then this book is for you. If you like when there is one horse then this book is for you. If you like the bitter taste of betrayal but live for that redemption arc then this book is for you.
Stephanie has crafted characters that will make you cry, rage and laugh. She has written a world unlike any other and her beautiful prose will have you absolutely obsessed with the story. I can't wait for the next book.
Set aside some hours and lose yourself this book. When you think that all is lost and you have been betrayed and you want to rage at the characters and throw your kindle, just remember, love will always find a way and there is always a chance for redemption. This is an epic romantasy and the best part is being swept away by all the emotion. I'll be here for you when you finish, I can't wait to talk about this book!!!
February 12, 2026
I was entirely engrossed!
What an epic story, full of adventure, love, angst and some seriously smokin moments. The plot was a dream to read, I loved the writing style. A perfect blend of descriptive writing allowing me to visualise the scenery, along with a storyline full of an interesting mix of characters.
Alora, our passionate leader from The Order of The Hidden. Her journey is pretty harrowing, this isn’t for the faint hearted let that be known. She is tough but fair, she is determined, however when she gives, she does with everything in her.
I feel there is so much more to Kassiel. My heart broke for him at times. His devotion, his selflessness, I loved to read the insights into his POV. It really was a perfect blend and I adored their relationship. It’s full of trials and tribulations and I can’t help but feel there is a lot more truths to be revealed into just how much Alora and Kassiel are intertwined.
“We’ve been doomed to fall into each other’s paths from the beginning of time.”
I was lucky enough to have received an ARC from the author and I look forward to reading the next one!
What an epic story, full of adventure, love, angst and some seriously smokin moments. The plot was a dream to read, I loved the writing style. A perfect blend of descriptive writing allowing me to visualise the scenery, along with a storyline full of an interesting mix of characters.
Alora, our passionate leader from The Order of The Hidden. Her journey is pretty harrowing, this isn’t for the faint hearted let that be known. She is tough but fair, she is determined, however when she gives, she does with everything in her.
I feel there is so much more to Kassiel. My heart broke for him at times. His devotion, his selflessness, I loved to read the insights into his POV. It really was a perfect blend and I adored their relationship. It’s full of trials and tribulations and I can’t help but feel there is a lot more truths to be revealed into just how much Alora and Kassiel are intertwined.
“We’ve been doomed to fall into each other’s paths from the beginning of time.”
I was lucky enough to have received an ARC from the author and I look forward to reading the next one!
February 16, 2026
3.8 rounded up to 4!
This has all of the popular romantasy tropes you know and love: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, spice, hidden magic, he falls first, found family. I enjoyed this book a lot! I think the parts I had the biggest gripes with were some of the middle portions dragging on a little bit and near the end I felt like there were some characters that showed up that I knew very little about. Maybe I forgot about them?
It was pretty spicy and fun, I liked the FMC and MMC a lot, and the ending was such a good cliffhanger!
Thank you to R&R book tours for the early copy!
This has all of the popular romantasy tropes you know and love: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, spice, hidden magic, he falls first, found family. I enjoyed this book a lot! I think the parts I had the biggest gripes with were some of the middle portions dragging on a little bit and near the end I felt like there were some characters that showed up that I knew very little about. Maybe I forgot about them?
It was pretty spicy and fun, I liked the FMC and MMC a lot, and the ending was such a good cliffhanger!
Thank you to R&R book tours for the early copy!
February 22, 2026
Main character Alora, is a wonderful FMC. Shes strong, bold and flawed. Making her relatable and someone you want to root for. I ate this story up. I am a huge enemies to lovers fan, I know it’s used a lot but I can’t get enough of it. It delivered on all fronts. I definitely ran through it. I love a morally grey man and Kassiel is no different, he is morally grey and phenomenal. The chemistry between these two is so good I enjoyed it but this is not a instalove type of book it is a slow burn and I loved it. If you love that you will enjoy this. I loved the authors writing so much.
February 10, 2026
Kassiel and Alora were perfection. I absolutely loved this story. From the enemies to lovers trope, to the twists and turns. I absolutely can’t wait for book 2 after that cliffhanger. The spice was spicing, the chemistry was hot and not to forget this man is a shadow daddy with a tragic backstory 🥵. 10/10 recommend I can’t wait to see what happens next.
February 10, 2026
Why! Oh why that cliffhanger! When is the other one! Kassiel is really a sweetheart for her only!
February 22, 2026
A truly emotional read, hauntingly poetic writing, characters threaded together by the whimsies of the Fates.
This debut novel by Stephanie Blair hits you right in the heart. Exploring the themes of consent, trauma, acceptance of your own inner monsters and a world where the men delight in seeing people powerless, my heart ached for Alora and her found family.
The world building is that beautiful blend of gothic aesthetic x fantasy whimsy and I adored it! The stark contrast between the King’s castle and the haunted forest and the beautiful hidden underground city where the rebels live created such immersive imagery in my head!
Alora is bright, incredible, kind, self-sacrificing to a fault but harbours past traumas and demons that make her feel weak and unworthy. She has closed off her heart and her purpose is vengeance and defending those who have been persecuted and forced to hide from the King who would see any with magic, dead.
Kassiel is broken, bound, violated and forced to use his death magic against any who stand against the King. He has lost himself to being the King’s personal executioner and plays the part of the monster that everyone sees him as. He has lost all hope and wishes for oblivion.
The gods and fate place Alora directly in Kassiel’s path to be executed and neither is prepared for the shockwave that ripple through them both as their souls awaken and each feels their carefully constructed walls begin to crumble.
“I don’t need your help.” The venom seethes from her lips, her tone cold and haughty. It should strike me but instead, it awakens the deviousness that slumbers within me, making me want to kiss the words off her mouth until she bites.
This book is a safe space for every feeling of self-doubt you’ve had, for every time you’ve wanted to give up hope and for every time you raged at a world that took more than it ever gives back. The main characters are flawed but tragically beautiful and their love story will make your toes curl with the things the wicked Devourer says! But also get ready to get sucked into the emotional damage and traumantasy of Alora and Kassiel’s love story.
We were damned to orbit one another for eternity, forced to remain on the cusp of a salvation that was just out of reach.
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy:
🖤 Captor and captive
⛓️💥 Shadow daddy
🖤 He falls first
⛓️💥 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Touch her and die
⛓️💥 One horse
🖤 Forced proximity
⛓️💥 Star crossed lovers
🖤 Found family
This debut novel by Stephanie Blair hits you right in the heart. Exploring the themes of consent, trauma, acceptance of your own inner monsters and a world where the men delight in seeing people powerless, my heart ached for Alora and her found family.
The world building is that beautiful blend of gothic aesthetic x fantasy whimsy and I adored it! The stark contrast between the King’s castle and the haunted forest and the beautiful hidden underground city where the rebels live created such immersive imagery in my head!
Alora is bright, incredible, kind, self-sacrificing to a fault but harbours past traumas and demons that make her feel weak and unworthy. She has closed off her heart and her purpose is vengeance and defending those who have been persecuted and forced to hide from the King who would see any with magic, dead.
Kassiel is broken, bound, violated and forced to use his death magic against any who stand against the King. He has lost himself to being the King’s personal executioner and plays the part of the monster that everyone sees him as. He has lost all hope and wishes for oblivion.
The gods and fate place Alora directly in Kassiel’s path to be executed and neither is prepared for the shockwave that ripple through them both as their souls awaken and each feels their carefully constructed walls begin to crumble.
“I don’t need your help.” The venom seethes from her lips, her tone cold and haughty. It should strike me but instead, it awakens the deviousness that slumbers within me, making me want to kiss the words off her mouth until she bites.
This book is a safe space for every feeling of self-doubt you’ve had, for every time you’ve wanted to give up hope and for every time you raged at a world that took more than it ever gives back. The main characters are flawed but tragically beautiful and their love story will make your toes curl with the things the wicked Devourer says! But also get ready to get sucked into the emotional damage and traumantasy of Alora and Kassiel’s love story.
We were damned to orbit one another for eternity, forced to remain on the cusp of a salvation that was just out of reach.
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy:
🖤 Captor and captive
⛓️💥 Shadow daddy
🖤 He falls first
⛓️💥 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Touch her and die
⛓️💥 One horse
🖤 Forced proximity
⛓️💥 Star crossed lovers
🖤 Found family
February 15, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ = 4 stars!
I absolutely devoured this one! It delivers all the delicious tropes romantasy lovers crave: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, magic, star-crossed love, and just the right amount of spice to keep the pages turning.
Alora is a fierce and compelling FMC whose strength is beautifully grounded in her backstory. Her motivations feel authentic, and her flaws make her relatable. And then there’s Kassiel… I am an unapologetic sucker for a morally grey MMC with a tragic past, and he delivered on every level. His dry humour, layered vulnerability, and that delicious slow-burn chemistry with Alora? Absolute perfection. Add in a “he falls first” dynamic and it’s truly chef’s kiss.
The found family element was another standout. The side characters weren’t just background figures, they had depth, purpose, and real emotional weight within the story.
Stephanie’s writing is beautiful, filled with gorgeous prose and vivid description. Some might think it is a bit much at times, but I personally loved it.
What to Expect:
⭐ Star-Crossed Lovers
🗡️ Shadow Daddy
☁️ Forced Proximity
⭐ Morally Grey MMC
🗡️ Strong FMC
☁️ Slow Burn Spice
⭐ Captor x Captive
🗡️ Enemies to Lovers
☁️ Found Family
Triggers/Warnings ⚠️:
Please see the author’s website for a full list.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
My one small gripe was that occasionally conversations between characters felt slightly unfinished, questions asked but not always answered before the dialogue shifted. It didn’t detract significantly from the story, though I’ll admit my curious brain wanted those answers!
A huge thank you to Stephanie for the eARC! I’m so grateful to have been chosen as an ARC reader and am very happily (and voluntarily!) leaving this review ❤️✨
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I absolutely devoured this one! It delivers all the delicious tropes romantasy lovers crave: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, magic, star-crossed love, and just the right amount of spice to keep the pages turning.
Alora is a fierce and compelling FMC whose strength is beautifully grounded in her backstory. Her motivations feel authentic, and her flaws make her relatable. And then there’s Kassiel… I am an unapologetic sucker for a morally grey MMC with a tragic past, and he delivered on every level. His dry humour, layered vulnerability, and that delicious slow-burn chemistry with Alora? Absolute perfection. Add in a “he falls first” dynamic and it’s truly chef’s kiss.
The found family element was another standout. The side characters weren’t just background figures, they had depth, purpose, and real emotional weight within the story.
Stephanie’s writing is beautiful, filled with gorgeous prose and vivid description. Some might think it is a bit much at times, but I personally loved it.
What to Expect:
⭐ Star-Crossed Lovers
🗡️ Shadow Daddy
☁️ Forced Proximity
⭐ Morally Grey MMC
🗡️ Strong FMC
☁️ Slow Burn Spice
⭐ Captor x Captive
🗡️ Enemies to Lovers
☁️ Found Family
Triggers/Warnings ⚠️:
Please see the author’s website for a full list.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
My one small gripe was that occasionally conversations between characters felt slightly unfinished, questions asked but not always answered before the dialogue shifted. It didn’t detract significantly from the story, though I’ll admit my curious brain wanted those answers!
A huge thank you to Stephanie for the eARC! I’m so grateful to have been chosen as an ARC reader and am very happily (and voluntarily!) leaving this review ❤️✨
Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads | Facebook | My Books
February 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stephanie Blair made us wait for this book! But it was worth the wait and I am already anxiously needing the next. Not only that, but this is Stephanie’s debut novel. Starting your journey as an author can be scary enough as it is, let alone starting said journey off with a multiple book, fantasy series. But Stephanie has written an amazing, captivating story! When the Stars Were Devoured is book 1 in her Devoured Fates series and it is shaping up to be amazing!
Alora is strong, courageous, and cunning. She is loyal to her causes and believes in what is right. When a mission goes south and she is captured, she is quick to turn the tables. I absolutely loved how Stephanie wrote Alora. Never a damsel in distress, she is quick on her feet. When her captor becomes her prisoner, she will do whatever she can to gain her freedom back. Yet the pull she feels towards her once captor is hard to ignore and the more time they spend together the more they realize nothing is as it seems.
Kassiel must serve the king. Stephanie made my heart ache for him with his backstory and definitely became more interesting the longer we got to read about him. The more you get to know him, the more the layers pull back to fully understand why he is the way he is. When the tides turn on him, he gets pulled into something he isn’t expecting. The woman he is supposed to execute is slowly burrowing her way into his heart and making him see things differently.
Stephanie has definitely left me wanting more. More of this world, more of the storyline, more of Alora and Kassiel. Knowing what happens in this book and what could potentially be coming with book 2, my patience won’t last long. Stephanie definitely knows how to pull her readers in and keep them hooked. An author to watch out for as she continues her author journey.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
✨Forced Proximity
💙Star-Crossed Lovers
✨He Falls First
💙Shadow Daddy
✨Captor becomes Captive
💙Enemies to Lovers
✨Darcy Hand Clench
💙Touch Her and 💀
Stephanie Blair made us wait for this book! But it was worth the wait and I am already anxiously needing the next. Not only that, but this is Stephanie’s debut novel. Starting your journey as an author can be scary enough as it is, let alone starting said journey off with a multiple book, fantasy series. But Stephanie has written an amazing, captivating story! When the Stars Were Devoured is book 1 in her Devoured Fates series and it is shaping up to be amazing!
Alora is strong, courageous, and cunning. She is loyal to her causes and believes in what is right. When a mission goes south and she is captured, she is quick to turn the tables. I absolutely loved how Stephanie wrote Alora. Never a damsel in distress, she is quick on her feet. When her captor becomes her prisoner, she will do whatever she can to gain her freedom back. Yet the pull she feels towards her once captor is hard to ignore and the more time they spend together the more they realize nothing is as it seems.
Kassiel must serve the king. Stephanie made my heart ache for him with his backstory and definitely became more interesting the longer we got to read about him. The more you get to know him, the more the layers pull back to fully understand why he is the way he is. When the tides turn on him, he gets pulled into something he isn’t expecting. The woman he is supposed to execute is slowly burrowing her way into his heart and making him see things differently.
Stephanie has definitely left me wanting more. More of this world, more of the storyline, more of Alora and Kassiel. Knowing what happens in this book and what could potentially be coming with book 2, my patience won’t last long. Stephanie definitely knows how to pull her readers in and keep them hooked. An author to watch out for as she continues her author journey.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
✨Forced Proximity
💙Star-Crossed Lovers
✨He Falls First
💙Shadow Daddy
✨Captor becomes Captive
💙Enemies to Lovers
✨Darcy Hand Clench
💙Touch Her and 💀
February 16, 2026
4.5/5
When Stephanie Blair announced she was writing a book, I immediately knew I had to join her street team. We met through book clubs, and from our shared tastes and conversations I just knew her book would delight me.
Normally, when I write a review, I start with the plot, then move on to the worldbuilding, the characters, and finally the writing. But this time, I have to reverse that order, because the most captivating and striking aspect of this book is the prose. Stephanie’s writing is deep, expressive, and filled with metaphors. It adds emotional weight to every scene and makes the story resonate on a much deeper level. Her writing makes the whole reading experience richer and more immersive—and it makes you grow even more attached to the characters.
The main characters, Alora and Kassiel, are truly the heart of this story. Alora is a powerful rebel leader—charismatic, courageous, and yet full of vulnerability. After all the horror she has witnessed and endured, she still believes in human goodness and continues to put others before herself. Kassiel, on the other hand, is the King’s executioner—The Devourer. His power is feared, his name known everywhere, yet no one knows the real man behind the legend. No one sees what he sacrifices or the toll that unleashing his power takes on him. But Alora sees through the mask, through the armor he has built around himself—an armor that begins to crack just for her. Their interactions are vivid and full of fire; I loved their banter and the way they gradually open up to one another, revealing who they truly are.
A quick note on the side characters: they’re full of personality and play an essential role in the development of the main characters and their story. (My personal favorite: Leeson!) The magic system is a bit complex, intertwining powers and runes in a very intriguing way. I would have loved a bit more detail on how the different abilities work—but I’m hopeful we’ll get that in the next book. :)
This book didn’t just meet my expectations; it exceeded them beautifully. A powerful debut with heart, emotion, and a prose that shines.
When Stephanie Blair announced she was writing a book, I immediately knew I had to join her street team. We met through book clubs, and from our shared tastes and conversations I just knew her book would delight me.
Normally, when I write a review, I start with the plot, then move on to the worldbuilding, the characters, and finally the writing. But this time, I have to reverse that order, because the most captivating and striking aspect of this book is the prose. Stephanie’s writing is deep, expressive, and filled with metaphors. It adds emotional weight to every scene and makes the story resonate on a much deeper level. Her writing makes the whole reading experience richer and more immersive—and it makes you grow even more attached to the characters.
The main characters, Alora and Kassiel, are truly the heart of this story. Alora is a powerful rebel leader—charismatic, courageous, and yet full of vulnerability. After all the horror she has witnessed and endured, she still believes in human goodness and continues to put others before herself. Kassiel, on the other hand, is the King’s executioner—The Devourer. His power is feared, his name known everywhere, yet no one knows the real man behind the legend. No one sees what he sacrifices or the toll that unleashing his power takes on him. But Alora sees through the mask, through the armor he has built around himself—an armor that begins to crack just for her. Their interactions are vivid and full of fire; I loved their banter and the way they gradually open up to one another, revealing who they truly are.
A quick note on the side characters: they’re full of personality and play an essential role in the development of the main characters and their story. (My personal favorite: Leeson!) The magic system is a bit complex, intertwining powers and runes in a very intriguing way. I would have loved a bit more detail on how the different abilities work—but I’m hopeful we’ll get that in the next book. :)
This book didn’t just meet my expectations; it exceeded them beautifully. A powerful debut with heart, emotion, and a prose that shines.
February 15, 2026
When the Stars Were Devoured is the first book in a new fantasy series by Stephanie Blair. I was quickly drawn into the story by the author’s rich prose and sweetly flowing writing style.
MMC Kassiel is introduced first, and we get a small glimpse of events in the past that have shaped his character. Kassiel is known as “the Devourer,” and he uses his fearsome magic at the whim of the king.
Then we meet FMC Alora, the commander of a rebel group who craves revenge against the regime that wronged her family and village. Alora possesses a rare magic, which, if discovered, would make her a target for capture and use by the king. She is not trained in using this magic, but she makes up for that with her tenacity and the balancing of her skills with her fellow warriors.
When Kassiel and Alora meet, the two enemies are pulled toward each other, and the heat between them simmers and then burns in the best way when they give into their desires.
And Kassiel just says such beautiful things:
“My soul knew yours from when the first stars formed and will know yours until the last of those stars fall.”
As often happens, fate has other ideas for the lovers, and the twists and turns in this book kept me turning pages far into the night!
Here are some tropes I noted while reading:
-found family
-enemies to lovers
-shadow magic
-she would k$ll for him
-unique magic types
-he gives her a nickname
-he falls first
-they share one horse
The unique magic and strong character development in this book really added to the story, and I will definitely be awaiting book 2! Thank you to the author for sharing an advanced review copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
MMC Kassiel is introduced first, and we get a small glimpse of events in the past that have shaped his character. Kassiel is known as “the Devourer,” and he uses his fearsome magic at the whim of the king.
Then we meet FMC Alora, the commander of a rebel group who craves revenge against the regime that wronged her family and village. Alora possesses a rare magic, which, if discovered, would make her a target for capture and use by the king. She is not trained in using this magic, but she makes up for that with her tenacity and the balancing of her skills with her fellow warriors.
When Kassiel and Alora meet, the two enemies are pulled toward each other, and the heat between them simmers and then burns in the best way when they give into their desires.
And Kassiel just says such beautiful things:
“My soul knew yours from when the first stars formed and will know yours until the last of those stars fall.”
As often happens, fate has other ideas for the lovers, and the twists and turns in this book kept me turning pages far into the night!
Here are some tropes I noted while reading:
-found family
-enemies to lovers
-shadow magic
-she would k$ll for him
-unique magic types
-he gives her a nickname
-he falls first
-they share one horse
The unique magic and strong character development in this book really added to the story, and I will definitely be awaiting book 2! Thank you to the author for sharing an advanced review copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2026
An absolutely brutal cliffhanger ending after lots of twists, betrayals and chaos at the end has me so ready for book 2!
You follow the rebellion leader FMC Alora, who’s spent years trying to get a group together to bring down the evil king and make the lives of the people in her kingdom better. When one day a mission goes wrong and she ends up captured by the kings right hand, the devourer aka Kassiel, who’s know for his killing touch. After an escape is orchestrated by her people, she ends up freed but with her own prisoner in toe, the devourer himself. As they travel with her two best friends toward the rebel hideout, she learns that everything she knows about him might not be what it seems and of course there’s this unknown and undeniable connection between them that’s she’s struggling to resist.
This book had me hooked, I do so love a rebel badass FMC with her very own morally grey, I only start doing the right thing because of her MMC. I love how tidbits of the MMCs story and the truth about him are slowly revealed and how him and Alora slowly start to trust each other and share in each other’s pain. I love the little found family Alora has built among the hidden rebel community after the loss of her whole family and how she starts to share that community with Kassiel. All the planning and plotting can only get them so far and those last few chapters had me reeling and ready for the next book! Overall my rating 4.5/5! Be sure to check your triggers on this book as it gets dark at times!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the rebellion leader FMC Alora, who’s spent years trying to get a group together to bring down the evil king and make the lives of the people in her kingdom better. When one day a mission goes wrong and she ends up captured by the kings right hand, the devourer aka Kassiel, who’s know for his killing touch. After an escape is orchestrated by her people, she ends up freed but with her own prisoner in toe, the devourer himself. As they travel with her two best friends toward the rebel hideout, she learns that everything she knows about him might not be what it seems and of course there’s this unknown and undeniable connection between them that’s she’s struggling to resist.
This book had me hooked, I do so love a rebel badass FMC with her very own morally grey, I only start doing the right thing because of her MMC. I love how tidbits of the MMCs story and the truth about him are slowly revealed and how him and Alora slowly start to trust each other and share in each other’s pain. I love the little found family Alora has built among the hidden rebel community after the loss of her whole family and how she starts to share that community with Kassiel. All the planning and plotting can only get them so far and those last few chapters had me reeling and ready for the next book! Overall my rating 4.5/5! Be sure to check your triggers on this book as it gets dark at times!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
February 16, 2026
Alora is one of the commanders of The Hidden, a rebel group fighting against the tyrannical King Euron. The king regularly sends culling bands out to capture people with magical abilities. The bands leave horror and destruction on their wake, as they will destroy everything in their pursuit. The king's obsession stems from a rumored curse that prevents him from having any magic or producing any heirs, magical or otherwise, despite his attempts to breed magic into his bloodline.
After a failed mission, Alora is captured by one of the king's most powerful magic users, The Devourer. He is often at the head of the culling bands with his death magic. Alora has her own power and she unintentionally loses control in fr9nt of The Devourer. Her capture results in her being imprisoned until the king decides to either add her to his menagerie or make an example out of her as a message to The Hidden. Alora's fate is to be an example, but as she approaches her doom, her companions rescue her and end up capturing The Devourer.
Oh my gosh, I loved this book. I need more. I am obsessed Alora and Kassiel and I cannot wait to explore everything that is between them, as there is still so much to uncover. I loved the world and the magic and I cannot wait to explore more of both. I desperately need the next book so I can know what happens next!
Thank you to author Stephanie Blair for the gifted eARC.
After a failed mission, Alora is captured by one of the king's most powerful magic users, The Devourer. He is often at the head of the culling bands with his death magic. Alora has her own power and she unintentionally loses control in fr9nt of The Devourer. Her capture results in her being imprisoned until the king decides to either add her to his menagerie or make an example out of her as a message to The Hidden. Alora's fate is to be an example, but as she approaches her doom, her companions rescue her and end up capturing The Devourer.
Oh my gosh, I loved this book. I need more. I am obsessed Alora and Kassiel and I cannot wait to explore everything that is between them, as there is still so much to uncover. I loved the world and the magic and I cannot wait to explore more of both. I desperately need the next book so I can know what happens next!
Thank you to author Stephanie Blair for the gifted eARC.
February 16, 2026
The poetic prose in this debut was one of my favorite parts! The prologue sets the tone for what you know will be an emotional read. Both Kassiel and Alora have tragic and haunted backstories and watching them find peace in each other was beautiful. I do wish there was more of a slow burn, especially since they start on different sides, because it would have added some extra depth. The pacing in the first half was a little slow but once the rebellion action begins, it picks up. I love books with prophecy and enjoyed how this one was revealed along the way. The cliffhanger ending has me excited to find out what will happen next! 3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads.
Read this one if you enjoy:
✨Star-crossed lovers
✨Captive become captor
✨One horse
✨Prophecy
✨Magic
✨Haunted pasts
✨Rebellion
✨Beautiful prose
“Whatever this is between us, it’s driving me mad. I don’t know what’s worse: knowing we can never be or knowing that you were very well made for me. It’s a cruel joke, us being on separate sides of fate.”
“I thought I could resist you. That I could force you to hate me and it would make our existence easier, but it was inevitable.”
I want to be lost in his darkness, cloaked in the shadow of his soul.
“Baptize me in your chaos. Love me until there’s nothing left of us except dust.”
Read this one if you enjoy:
✨Star-crossed lovers
✨Captive become captor
✨One horse
✨Prophecy
✨Magic
✨Haunted pasts
✨Rebellion
✨Beautiful prose
“Whatever this is between us, it’s driving me mad. I don’t know what’s worse: knowing we can never be or knowing that you were very well made for me. It’s a cruel joke, us being on separate sides of fate.”
“I thought I could resist you. That I could force you to hate me and it would make our existence easier, but it was inevitable.”
I want to be lost in his darkness, cloaked in the shadow of his soul.
“Baptize me in your chaos. Love me until there’s nothing left of us except dust.”
February 17, 2026
ARC Review: WOW…this was darker than I expected it to be. There’s quite a bit of trauma and triggers in this one, but it all comes together beautifully and makes them who they are. I know that sounds cliché but it’s true lol The characters (including side characters) went through some tough situations and some parts were a little lacking with coming full circle or were a little confusing, but I’m not going to hold that against the story. At first, I wasn’t digging the insta-love, because I just normally don’t like it, BUT…in this case it made sense in the end. The banter between Alora and her friends and even with Kassiel was great and made me giggle. Also the King and The Nightmare can suck a pickle, ugh, if there’s ever a time to feel so much rage towards a fictional character, it was towards them. The cliff hanger wasn’t too drastic though (thank God because I don’t think my heart could have taken anymore than it did at the end) and I’m eager for book 2!
February 19, 2026
When the stars were devoured
I read a lot of fantasy romance and this is why I love this genre.
It has everything we love , enemies to lovers, star crossed lovers, a morally grey MMC and an amazing FMC too.
This kind of book is why I read, to be transported to a world where you don't want to leave where you feel part of the group and that makes you feel you're genuinely making these journeys with them.
I loved Alora she's a beautiful FMC who really goes though it at the beginning of the book. It's amazing how you can feel love and adoration for our characters while also dispising a few of them too. Where you feel the hatred and much you feel the love and these visceral reactions is what makes the book so beautifully written.
Our MMC Kassiel (The Devourer) is what we love in a male main character and he's got demons and reasons for why he has to do what he does.
I've had my eye on this book for a little while and have been desperate for this release. I'm so glad it's here.
If you love the idea of a rebel group who are being hunted and then capture one of the king's right hand men, and go on a journey with them please read this book.
This is an absolute stunning debut and I can't wait to see where this story goes 🩵
I read a lot of fantasy romance and this is why I love this genre.
It has everything we love , enemies to lovers, star crossed lovers, a morally grey MMC and an amazing FMC too.
This kind of book is why I read, to be transported to a world where you don't want to leave where you feel part of the group and that makes you feel you're genuinely making these journeys with them.
I loved Alora she's a beautiful FMC who really goes though it at the beginning of the book. It's amazing how you can feel love and adoration for our characters while also dispising a few of them too. Where you feel the hatred and much you feel the love and these visceral reactions is what makes the book so beautifully written.
Our MMC Kassiel (The Devourer) is what we love in a male main character and he's got demons and reasons for why he has to do what he does.
I've had my eye on this book for a little while and have been desperate for this release. I'm so glad it's here.
If you love the idea of a rebel group who are being hunted and then capture one of the king's right hand men, and go on a journey with them please read this book.
This is an absolute stunning debut and I can't wait to see where this story goes 🩵
February 21, 2026
An Emotional star crossed lovers beautifully written.
What a ride! I'll start by saying that the magical world is super interesting and the complexity of the characters is intriguing. I usually get annoyed with the protagonists at some point, but that didn't happen with Alora. I feel she has a really lovely strength, and I agree with many of her reasoning points. It's true that the book is a bit predictable in some parts, but it's also true that you're still unsure about certain things and what's going to happen right up until the end..
Bonus points for Kassiel, the yearning, it's so gooooooddd. The way he sees and describes his feelings about Alora is out of this world. Where do I sign up to get my own shadow daddy?
I need to know how the story continues!!!
__I voluntarily read an early copy of this book, thank you Stephanie for the great opportunity__
What a ride! I'll start by saying that the magical world is super interesting and the complexity of the characters is intriguing. I usually get annoyed with the protagonists at some point, but that didn't happen with Alora. I feel she has a really lovely strength, and I agree with many of her reasoning points. It's true that the book is a bit predictable in some parts, but it's also true that you're still unsure about certain things and what's going to happen right up until the end..
Bonus points for Kassiel, the yearning, it's so gooooooddd. The way he sees and describes his feelings about Alora is out of this world. Where do I sign up to get my own shadow daddy?
I need to know how the story continues!!!
__I voluntarily read an early copy of this book, thank you Stephanie for the great opportunity__
February 14, 2026
2 stars
Sigh* Am I just burned out from romantasy right now or was this actually just a boring book. The characters were just so boring. MMC had zero personality past his centuries long love for the fmc. And there was literally no reason these particular characters should be in love. Him? Okay fine. But her? She literally said something about wanting to kill him but also feel this irresistible pull to him. And that was all we got before boom they are in a loving relationship??? I’m sorry? I’m not even anti fated mates but it felt like lazy writing to not even show them actually falling in love. And it’s not like I could rely on the plot to keep me interested… maybe this is the book that makes me take a break from romantasy for a while.
Sigh* Am I just burned out from romantasy right now or was this actually just a boring book. The characters were just so boring. MMC had zero personality past his centuries long love for the fmc. And there was literally no reason these particular characters should be in love. Him? Okay fine. But her? She literally said something about wanting to kill him but also feel this irresistible pull to him. And that was all we got before boom they are in a loving relationship??? I’m sorry? I’m not even anti fated mates but it felt like lazy writing to not even show them actually falling in love. And it’s not like I could rely on the plot to keep me interested… maybe this is the book that makes me take a break from romantasy for a while.
February 15, 2026
Arc Review
When the stars were devoured by @authorstephblair
Thanks you for the e arc, for an honest review
All I'm going to say which is not much as I don't want to spoil anything about this book.
It's such a emotional blinder and high stakes. You want yearning and that pining after you know you should not have, you want true enemies to lovers and morally black MMC and a Rebellious FMC who turned the table and takes him as a captive. Then here you go.
That truly small sparks that ignites the passion between them even though they do despise each other and need to kill. To survive. Those side characters. The banter between them, it's top notch.
And that ending that leaves your mouth gaping of needing the second book straight away.
When the stars were devoured by @authorstephblair
Thanks you for the e arc, for an honest review
All I'm going to say which is not much as I don't want to spoil anything about this book.
It's such a emotional blinder and high stakes. You want yearning and that pining after you know you should not have, you want true enemies to lovers and morally black MMC and a Rebellious FMC who turned the table and takes him as a captive. Then here you go.
That truly small sparks that ignites the passion between them even though they do despise each other and need to kill. To survive. Those side characters. The banter between them, it's top notch.
And that ending that leaves your mouth gaping of needing the second book straight away.
February 21, 2026
Yall I devoured this book, no pun intended 😆. I am a sucker for the ************* trope. There’s so much yearning and emotional devastation that pays off. The prose here is beautiful and tender. The love epic and heartbreaking. Kassiel is our morally grey MMC but also has this softer side that I adore. Alora is resilient and fierce, not afraid to ask the tough questions and face her own feelings. I think the identities of our characters are pretty obvious from the beginning but it works because there are still so many secrets and history to unravel. I’m eager to learn more about the magic system, the mythology, and Alora’s powers. Thanks to the author for the eARC!
February 20, 2026
When the Stars Were Devoured is a dark, tension-laced fantasy that blends rebellion, forbidden attraction, and dangerous magic into a story that hooked me with its intensity and kept me there with its emotional pull. Alora is a fierce and determined heroine whose rare illusion magic and devotion to her suffering kingdom make her instantly compelling, while Kassiel, the king’s feared executioner known as the Devourer, delivers everything you want from a broody, morally gray hero struggling against the fate carved into him. Their dynamic crackles with enemies-to-lovers tension, layered with mistrust, vulnerability, and the constant threat of betrayal, and I loved how their growing connection slowly chips away at the roles they’ve been forced to play. The world of Noxia feels harsh and desperate, giving the rebellion real weight and urgency, though I did find myself wanting just a bit more depth in certain reveals. Still, with its addictive chemistry, high emotional stakes, and shadowy magic, this is a gripping start to a romantasy series that’s absolutely worth diving into.
February 15, 2026
Thank you to the author for the e-arc.
I would say I’m ashamed to admit I devoured this book in 3 hours, but I’m not actually ashamed.
I loved every single second of it. The cliffhanger though…. 😩 the characters were written well and you could really feel their emotions in the writing.
I really am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I would say I’m ashamed to admit I devoured this book in 3 hours, but I’m not actually ashamed.
I loved every single second of it. The cliffhanger though…. 😩 the characters were written well and you could really feel their emotions in the writing.
I really am looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 16, 2026
I really just look we got star cross lovers. We got a deranged king and we have our Morley gray villain hero, bound to the deranged king and our main female she is a leader of resistance and yeah, I can’t wait for the next book
February 14, 2026
loved everything about it😍😍😍
Read
February 15, 20264⭐️
February 17, 2026
Slow moving in the beginning. Takes a while to really get into it. But once it does it gets good. I loved Kassiels and Aloras relationship. I can’t wait to see what is in store for them.
February 17, 2026
What an adventure of a story! A must read for sure
February 21, 2026
Oh my gosh, so good! Kassiel and Alora are beautiful. They heal, suffer, and grow together. The yearning this man does. I can’t wait for their story to continue :)
February 21, 2026
Kassiel is a Devourer- destined to be forever alone.
And Alora is part of a rebel group trying to survive the kings witch hunt. The duo of The Nightmare and The Devourer are written beautifully. You really get to see inside their heads and insight behind their actions. What happens when the tables are turned and the hunter becomes the hunted? I can’t wait to continue reading Alora and Kassiel’s story.
And Alora is part of a rebel group trying to survive the kings witch hunt. The duo of The Nightmare and The Devourer are written beautifully. You really get to see inside their heads and insight behind their actions. What happens when the tables are turned and the hunter becomes the hunted? I can’t wait to continue reading Alora and Kassiel’s story.
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