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See the Stars
A new heart-warming novel, perfect for bookclubs, from Eleanor Ray, the bestselling author of Everything Is Beautiful. 💫
'Genuine, sweet, and filled with hope.' - Reader review
'It was pure magic from start to finish.' - Reader review
'I was completely wrapped up in its gentle, hopeful magic.' - Reader review
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Do you ever feel that life isn't going to plan?
When Alice Thorington collapses in the street after a particularly hellish day at work, she must finally admit to herself that her outwardly happy life - steady relationship, well-paid job, beautiful flat in the city - isn't everything she'd hoped it would be. Burnt out by long hours and living a life that doesn't fulfil her dreams, Alice returns home to Yorkshire.
Her childhood home brings complicated family dynamics, a rediscovery of her passion for stargazing and two new Berti, a boy who finds it easier to count the stars than interact with people, and Matt, her brother's best friend and Alice's teenage crush. With each of them facing their own struggles, can the stars that meant so much to Alice in her past help them to find their way in the present?
Filled with heart and warmth, this uplifting novel reminds us all that we need the darkness if we want to see the stars.
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PRAISE FOR See the Stars 💫:
'A gorgeous, heart-warming hug of a book, perfect reading for warm nights under clear skies' SAM HOLLAND
'A new Eleanor Ray book is a treat to be savoured. Threaded with heartbreak, See the Stars is a beautiful, life-affirming story . . . Utterly transporting, it moved me to tears. Perfect' HEATHER CRITCHLOW
' It had me laughing and also brought me to tears. It's extraordinary. I'm buying for everyone I know.' RACHEL WOLF
' Eleanor Ray has a magical ability to scatter tears and laughter like stardust through her stories . . . Buy a copy for your mum, your sister, your friend - your entire book club - they'll thank you later.' JO FURNISS
'It is a quietly powerful and heartwarming novel about rediscovery, resilience, and what it truly means to live.' - Reader review
'Quiet pacing, emotional resonance, and moments of real beauty.' - Reader review
-----------------------
PRAISE FOR ELEANOR RAY'S DEBUT NOVEL, Everything Is
'This book took hold of me and wouldn't let me go until I turned the final page' BETH O'LEARY
'Funny, tender and uplifting' BBC RADIO 4
'Beautifully written and thought-provoking' KATIE FFORDE
'This is one of those books you just want to gulp down in one' GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
'Like the objects Amy collects, this novel is a treasure all of its own' Woman
'A joy to read, and very beautiful indeed' Lisa Dickenson
'A total treat of a read - warm, enchanting and intriguing, with an unforgettable protagonist at its heart' Holly Miller
'There's an intriguing mystery at the heart of this emotional but uplifting debut novel' Sunday Express
'Beautifully written and full of compassion, kindness and hope' Irish Independent
'A gorgeous, warm hug of a novel' Sinead Moriarty
'A tonic for the soul' Lesley Kara
'Charming and thrilling, romantic and gripping' Claire Kendal
<
'Genuine, sweet, and filled with hope.' - Reader review
'It was pure magic from start to finish.' - Reader review
'I was completely wrapped up in its gentle, hopeful magic.' - Reader review
-----------------------
Do you ever feel that life isn't going to plan?
When Alice Thorington collapses in the street after a particularly hellish day at work, she must finally admit to herself that her outwardly happy life - steady relationship, well-paid job, beautiful flat in the city - isn't everything she'd hoped it would be. Burnt out by long hours and living a life that doesn't fulfil her dreams, Alice returns home to Yorkshire.
Her childhood home brings complicated family dynamics, a rediscovery of her passion for stargazing and two new Berti, a boy who finds it easier to count the stars than interact with people, and Matt, her brother's best friend and Alice's teenage crush. With each of them facing their own struggles, can the stars that meant so much to Alice in her past help them to find their way in the present?
Filled with heart and warmth, this uplifting novel reminds us all that we need the darkness if we want to see the stars.
-----------------------
PRAISE FOR See the Stars 💫:
'A gorgeous, heart-warming hug of a book, perfect reading for warm nights under clear skies' SAM HOLLAND
'A new Eleanor Ray book is a treat to be savoured. Threaded with heartbreak, See the Stars is a beautiful, life-affirming story . . . Utterly transporting, it moved me to tears. Perfect' HEATHER CRITCHLOW
' It had me laughing and also brought me to tears. It's extraordinary. I'm buying for everyone I know.' RACHEL WOLF
' Eleanor Ray has a magical ability to scatter tears and laughter like stardust through her stories . . . Buy a copy for your mum, your sister, your friend - your entire book club - they'll thank you later.' JO FURNISS
'It is a quietly powerful and heartwarming novel about rediscovery, resilience, and what it truly means to live.' - Reader review
'Quiet pacing, emotional resonance, and moments of real beauty.' - Reader review
-----------------------
PRAISE FOR ELEANOR RAY'S DEBUT NOVEL, Everything Is
'This book took hold of me and wouldn't let me go until I turned the final page' BETH O'LEARY
'Funny, tender and uplifting' BBC RADIO 4
'Beautifully written and thought-provoking' KATIE FFORDE
'This is one of those books you just want to gulp down in one' GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
'Like the objects Amy collects, this novel is a treasure all of its own' Woman
'A joy to read, and very beautiful indeed' Lisa Dickenson
'A total treat of a read - warm, enchanting and intriguing, with an unforgettable protagonist at its heart' Holly Miller
'There's an intriguing mystery at the heart of this emotional but uplifting debut novel' Sunday Express
'Beautifully written and full of compassion, kindness and hope' Irish Independent
'A gorgeous, warm hug of a novel' Sinead Moriarty
'A tonic for the soul' Lesley Kara
'Charming and thrilling, romantic and gripping' Claire Kendal
<
- GenresFiction
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2025
2 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 19, 2025
This was such a lovely, sweet, warm book. The main character is Alice, who has a very well-paid job in the City. She is living in an apartment in London, with her fiancé Hugo (who is a teacher) and her cat Basalt (who is beautifully realised, with lots of character!).
The story goes back in time and to the present day, so we read about Alice’s life over the years. You see her lovely relationship with her grandad and how they shared an interest in astronomy and the stars. This is really at the core of everything and was such a beautiful connection between them.
You also find out about Alice’s years at University with her best friend Zelda (a brilliant character), friend Callum and Professor Boxley.
In the present day, something happens to Alice which makes her go back to Yorkshire to stay in her family home for a while with her mum Sheila. In the local library, she meets a boy called Berti Beechwood, who is thirteen. She also catches up with Matt - her brother’s former best friend and her crush back in the day.
One of my favourite things about the book is that Berti and Zelda are both autistic, in my opinion (it’s never stated in the text) and I loved how they shone through the pages. Being a parent of autistic children, I loved how they were described so positively and how you saw Berti’s talent and ability, rather than the book emphasising the awkward side he displays socially.
Although the book has a focus on space and astronomy, you really don’t need to know anything about it. I don’t and I still thoroughly enjoyed the book and it was good to learn more about the stars.
I read most of this book in one long session, because I was really into it and wanted to know what would happen. It is such a delightful story, one of those that I suspect will stay with me for a while and it’s definitely going to be in the running for being one of my top novels of 2025.
The story goes back in time and to the present day, so we read about Alice’s life over the years. You see her lovely relationship with her grandad and how they shared an interest in astronomy and the stars. This is really at the core of everything and was such a beautiful connection between them.
You also find out about Alice’s years at University with her best friend Zelda (a brilliant character), friend Callum and Professor Boxley.
In the present day, something happens to Alice which makes her go back to Yorkshire to stay in her family home for a while with her mum Sheila. In the local library, she meets a boy called Berti Beechwood, who is thirteen. She also catches up with Matt - her brother’s former best friend and her crush back in the day.
One of my favourite things about the book is that Berti and Zelda are both autistic, in my opinion (it’s never stated in the text) and I loved how they shone through the pages. Being a parent of autistic children, I loved how they were described so positively and how you saw Berti’s talent and ability, rather than the book emphasising the awkward side he displays socially.
Although the book has a focus on space and astronomy, you really don’t need to know anything about it. I don’t and I still thoroughly enjoyed the book and it was good to learn more about the stars.
I read most of this book in one long session, because I was really into it and wanted to know what would happen. It is such a delightful story, one of those that I suspect will stay with me for a while and it’s definitely going to be in the running for being one of my top novels of 2025.
August 4, 2025
Oh my what a heartwarming read. I just don’t know where to start.
‘“The heart looks into space to be away from Earth.” Richard Jefferies’
Alice has a medical incident signing her off sick for a fortnight. She’s determined to have a few days in glorious Yorkshire and be back at her high profile, high pressured job in days… she’s hilarious.
There is something about Yorkshire that relaxes you when you’re not working. It has a magical tonic to soothe the soul – trust me, I’ve been here over 20 years and a day off exploring a different part of God’s own county is pure medicine.
The friendship between Alice and Berti was just enticing. Berti is such a fascinating young man and his instant rapport with this stressed out woman is wonderful. I felt for this young man with his peers as Ray eluded to, kids and teens alike can be cruel and Berti has his quirks to not fully appreciate what is happening.
See The Stars is a very different book for me but a very enjoyable one. I loved the split timelines between chapters so I could understand Alice so much better. She’s a very driven individual but her switch in focus from space to banking was massively intriguing. As I met people from her past, they equally piqued my interest as to their future.
This is a fabulous story of acceptance and self discovery. Ray has pitched her characters perfectly and I was hooked even though it is not my usual read. Ray gave her characters body and realism which made the story a 3D read. Just wonderful.
‘“The heart looks into space to be away from Earth.” Richard Jefferies’
Alice has a medical incident signing her off sick for a fortnight. She’s determined to have a few days in glorious Yorkshire and be back at her high profile, high pressured job in days… she’s hilarious.
There is something about Yorkshire that relaxes you when you’re not working. It has a magical tonic to soothe the soul – trust me, I’ve been here over 20 years and a day off exploring a different part of God’s own county is pure medicine.
The friendship between Alice and Berti was just enticing. Berti is such a fascinating young man and his instant rapport with this stressed out woman is wonderful. I felt for this young man with his peers as Ray eluded to, kids and teens alike can be cruel and Berti has his quirks to not fully appreciate what is happening.
See The Stars is a very different book for me but a very enjoyable one. I loved the split timelines between chapters so I could understand Alice so much better. She’s a very driven individual but her switch in focus from space to banking was massively intriguing. As I met people from her past, they equally piqued my interest as to their future.
This is a fabulous story of acceptance and self discovery. Ray has pitched her characters perfectly and I was hooked even though it is not my usual read. Ray gave her characters body and realism which made the story a 3D read. Just wonderful.
July 18, 2025
Alice appears to have it all, a life in the city with her finance, well-paid job and a beautiful flat, that is until she collapses in the street outside of work. Needing to recover she returns to her childhood home in Yorkshire and it is here that she rediscovers her passion for stargazing and meets Berti, a teenager who shares the same interest, which makes her question the lifestyle she has been leading back in London.
See the Stars was such a pick-me-up, following the story of someone who is rediscovering their true passion and changing their life for the better when it comes to their health, is so heart-warming.
This is the first book of Eleanor Ray’s that I have read, but it won’t be the last. The level of detail that has gone into this with regards to stargazing as well as dealing with some hard topics, such as neurodiversity, made this book a joy to read.
I loved the focus of stargazing and the way it was used to tell not only Alice’s story but also that of Berti and Matt too. It meant that their true characters were able to shine through and especially for Alice where we see her rediscover her love for the stars and the effect that that ultimately has on her health.
Told in a dual timeline we are able to see how Alice’s love for the stars started and how she ended up with her city life.
A heart-warming story of rediscovery which is perfect for when you need a lift.
See the Stars was such a pick-me-up, following the story of someone who is rediscovering their true passion and changing their life for the better when it comes to their health, is so heart-warming.
This is the first book of Eleanor Ray’s that I have read, but it won’t be the last. The level of detail that has gone into this with regards to stargazing as well as dealing with some hard topics, such as neurodiversity, made this book a joy to read.
I loved the focus of stargazing and the way it was used to tell not only Alice’s story but also that of Berti and Matt too. It meant that their true characters were able to shine through and especially for Alice where we see her rediscover her love for the stars and the effect that that ultimately has on her health.
Told in a dual timeline we are able to see how Alice’s love for the stars started and how she ended up with her city life.
A heart-warming story of rediscovery which is perfect for when you need a lift.
April 10, 2025
Thank you Netgalley UK for this ARC.
Love the story of Alice. The story is told in two timelines: current one and Alice’s time in the university.
It is well written, characters are well developed. It is a bit predictable however highly enjoyable read.
Alice is relatable and likeable, she is flawed but her heart is in the right place. It is a nice story of Alice’s journey from her childhood and spending time looking at the night sky with her Grandpa through University and its challenges to her work life and her medical scare which turns her life 180 degrees.
It is well written book which grabbed my attention from the start.
Love the story of Alice. The story is told in two timelines: current one and Alice’s time in the university.
It is well written, characters are well developed. It is a bit predictable however highly enjoyable read.
Alice is relatable and likeable, she is flawed but her heart is in the right place. It is a nice story of Alice’s journey from her childhood and spending time looking at the night sky with her Grandpa through University and its challenges to her work life and her medical scare which turns her life 180 degrees.
It is well written book which grabbed my attention from the start.
May 6, 2025
I really loved See the Stars. It is a quietly powerful and heartwarming novel about rediscovery, resilience, and what it means to truly live.
The story follows Alice, a woman in her thirties who is forced to confront the fragility of life after a mini-stroke abruptly halts her high-flying City career.
With her health and sense of identity shaken, she returns to her childhood home in Yorkshire, where a slower pace and familiar surroundings offer the space to heal — and to reassess what truly matters.
Told across two timelines — Alice’s past and present — the novel carefully weaves together the key relationships and moments that have shaped her.
From her early obsession with space and astronomy, to the complex dynamics with her distant, often cold mother, to her rekindled connection with Matt, a childhood friend of her brother’s now dealing with his own trauma after being invalided out of the army, the story offers a reflective and relatable exploration of how past experiences ripple into adulthood.
At the heart of the book is the theme of connection - between generations, between friends, and within ourselves.
Alice’s encounter with Berti, a troubled but bright teenager in need of guidance and understanding, brings an added depth to the narrative.
Their shared mission to rediscover a comet first identified by Alice’s grandfather becomes both a literal and metaphorical journey toward hope and healing. Berti is a standout character - sparky, vulnerable, and engaging and his presence adds a fresh, youthful energy to Alice’s quieter introspection.
Eleanor Ray handles serious themes: burnout, grief, guilt, and healing, with sensitivity and insight.
The book gently critiques the pressure to constantly achieve and the emotional toll of ignoring unresolved pain, particularly for women who are often expected to carry on regardless.
Alice’s transformation is gradual but believable, and it’s uplifting to see her begin to let go of old wounds and embrace the joys of a simpler, more meaningful life.
See the Stars is a quietly uplifting novel that invites reflection on what really matters. With beautiful themes of healing, friendship, and second chances, it’s a story that reminds us — gently but firmly — to pause, to breathe, and to look up at the stars.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Alice, a woman in her thirties who is forced to confront the fragility of life after a mini-stroke abruptly halts her high-flying City career.
With her health and sense of identity shaken, she returns to her childhood home in Yorkshire, where a slower pace and familiar surroundings offer the space to heal — and to reassess what truly matters.
Told across two timelines — Alice’s past and present — the novel carefully weaves together the key relationships and moments that have shaped her.
From her early obsession with space and astronomy, to the complex dynamics with her distant, often cold mother, to her rekindled connection with Matt, a childhood friend of her brother’s now dealing with his own trauma after being invalided out of the army, the story offers a reflective and relatable exploration of how past experiences ripple into adulthood.
At the heart of the book is the theme of connection - between generations, between friends, and within ourselves.
Alice’s encounter with Berti, a troubled but bright teenager in need of guidance and understanding, brings an added depth to the narrative.
Their shared mission to rediscover a comet first identified by Alice’s grandfather becomes both a literal and metaphorical journey toward hope and healing. Berti is a standout character - sparky, vulnerable, and engaging and his presence adds a fresh, youthful energy to Alice’s quieter introspection.
Eleanor Ray handles serious themes: burnout, grief, guilt, and healing, with sensitivity and insight.
The book gently critiques the pressure to constantly achieve and the emotional toll of ignoring unresolved pain, particularly for women who are often expected to carry on regardless.
Alice’s transformation is gradual but believable, and it’s uplifting to see her begin to let go of old wounds and embrace the joys of a simpler, more meaningful life.
See the Stars is a quietly uplifting novel that invites reflection on what really matters. With beautiful themes of healing, friendship, and second chances, it’s a story that reminds us — gently but firmly — to pause, to breathe, and to look up at the stars.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2025
3.8 Stars
One Liner: Heartwarming!
Alice Thorington collapses on a street and is forced to accept that burnout hasn’t fulfilled her dreams. The flat, her job, and her steady relationship aren’t making her happy. She returns home to Yorkshire and rediscovers her love for stargazing, even if the family dynamics are complicated. Alice also meets Matt, her teenage crush brother’s best friend, with issues of his own. Then, there’s Berti, a boy who would rather count the stars than talk to people.
Can Alice find a way to sort her present with their help?
The story comes in Alice’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the second book I read in the same month, dealing with burnout in a 30-something career woman. The rest of the plots are vastly different, and both books have handled it well.
The main reason I got the book was because of the stars. If my plans had gone the way I wanted them to, I would have been an astrophysicist. I love space and all things up there in the vast, wide universe. The book does justice to the topic without making it sound like a science show.
The narrative shifts between the past and present. The past comes in installments with the year clearly marked. Though it may seem like you have to calculate the age, there’s no need to do it every time. Once is enough. You can track it from there.
This is a book where almost every character is flawed. They are not evil or villainous. They are just people with flaws, and those who thought it was the right thing at that time. I like that the fiancé is not made to be a bad guy. No need to demean him unnecessarily, right?
The characters are not that deep, but they aren’t shallow either. While we could have gotten more information (especially about Matt), the story works fine with what we know.
It is not romance. It is purely women’s fiction with just a bit of ‘love’ that doesn’t dominate the central plot, not even at the end.
The book also touches on academia and politics, among other topics, especially when you are a woman in STEM. I’m sure you can guess what I’m implying!
Bertie, the 13-year-old, is my favorite. The kid is super smart (but has no social cues), which makes him a refreshingly honest buddy as those around him try to be polite and say the right things.
To summarize, See the Stars is a heartwarming and introspective read about life, relationships, passion, and doing what makes one happy (while also bringing an income).
Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources and Piatkus, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
One Liner: Heartwarming!
Alice Thorington collapses on a street and is forced to accept that burnout hasn’t fulfilled her dreams. The flat, her job, and her steady relationship aren’t making her happy. She returns home to Yorkshire and rediscovers her love for stargazing, even if the family dynamics are complicated. Alice also meets Matt, her teenage crush brother’s best friend, with issues of his own. Then, there’s Berti, a boy who would rather count the stars than talk to people.
Can Alice find a way to sort her present with their help?
The story comes in Alice’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the second book I read in the same month, dealing with burnout in a 30-something career woman. The rest of the plots are vastly different, and both books have handled it well.
The main reason I got the book was because of the stars. If my plans had gone the way I wanted them to, I would have been an astrophysicist. I love space and all things up there in the vast, wide universe. The book does justice to the topic without making it sound like a science show.
The narrative shifts between the past and present. The past comes in installments with the year clearly marked. Though it may seem like you have to calculate the age, there’s no need to do it every time. Once is enough. You can track it from there.
This is a book where almost every character is flawed. They are not evil or villainous. They are just people with flaws, and those who thought it was the right thing at that time. I like that the fiancé is not made to be a bad guy. No need to demean him unnecessarily, right?
The characters are not that deep, but they aren’t shallow either. While we could have gotten more information (especially about Matt), the story works fine with what we know.
It is not romance. It is purely women’s fiction with just a bit of ‘love’ that doesn’t dominate the central plot, not even at the end.
The book also touches on academia and politics, among other topics, especially when you are a woman in STEM. I’m sure you can guess what I’m implying!
Bertie, the 13-year-old, is my favorite. The kid is super smart (but has no social cues), which makes him a refreshingly honest buddy as those around him try to be polite and say the right things.
To summarize, See the Stars is a heartwarming and introspective read about life, relationships, passion, and doing what makes one happy (while also bringing an income).
Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources and Piatkus, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
May 26, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Piatkus for the gifted copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I love Eleanor's books so much and this one sounded so wonderful. They're all heartfelt and soulful and magical and joyous.
This had me hooked from the very start and didn't let up until the end.
It is mostly set out in the present time, but every other chapter or so is set in Alice's childhood and student years, which gives us a real depth of character. She was such a wonderful character. I also loved her Grandfather, seen in the "past" chapters. I lost my grandparents many years ago, and so I love it when I read about grandparents because they're so warm and comforting. I didn't like Alice's partner Hugo, I found him very self-centered.
My standout character though has to be Bertie. He is a teenager that Alice meets when she's staying at her Mum's house. He is so amazing and really shone on the page, even when in scenes with the main adults, he still stole the show.
I loved the focus on space. I am fascinated by space and planets and whatnot, but I am not an expert by any stretch of the imagination. So I loved hat Alice's interest started as a child with her grandfather, with a homemade telescope in his shed. It made it more relateable.
It is a relatively short book and quick to read but it still manages to give us that depth of emotion and story I've come to expect.
It is such an uplifting story. Yes it has some difficult topics - dementia, ageing, illness, mental illness, disability, neurodiversity - but overall it is just such an upbeat, joyful story.
I have a copy of Eleanor's book The Art of Belonging still to read, but whenever I read her work, it's just...it's perfect and she is just cementing her position as one of my go-to authors.
I love Eleanor's books so much and this one sounded so wonderful. They're all heartfelt and soulful and magical and joyous.
This had me hooked from the very start and didn't let up until the end.
It is mostly set out in the present time, but every other chapter or so is set in Alice's childhood and student years, which gives us a real depth of character. She was such a wonderful character. I also loved her Grandfather, seen in the "past" chapters. I lost my grandparents many years ago, and so I love it when I read about grandparents because they're so warm and comforting. I didn't like Alice's partner Hugo, I found him very self-centered.
My standout character though has to be Bertie. He is a teenager that Alice meets when she's staying at her Mum's house. He is so amazing and really shone on the page, even when in scenes with the main adults, he still stole the show.
I loved the focus on space. I am fascinated by space and planets and whatnot, but I am not an expert by any stretch of the imagination. So I loved hat Alice's interest started as a child with her grandfather, with a homemade telescope in his shed. It made it more relateable.
It is a relatively short book and quick to read but it still manages to give us that depth of emotion and story I've come to expect.
It is such an uplifting story. Yes it has some difficult topics - dementia, ageing, illness, mental illness, disability, neurodiversity - but overall it is just such an upbeat, joyful story.
I have a copy of Eleanor's book The Art of Belonging still to read, but whenever I read her work, it's just...it's perfect and she is just cementing her position as one of my go-to authors.
July 16, 2025
Alice has to return to her home village to recuperate after a serious illness brought on through the stress of her hard work. Once there, she has to face up to her grief over the death of grandfather, the man who taught her about the stars as a child and who inspired her to take it further. Her London life is left behind as is her very pleasant fiance, and her high powered job in finance.which is her mother's great wish for her.
Once back at home, Alice decides to look back st her grandfather's logbooks and to try to repair his beloved telescope. Along the way, she befriends a young gifted boy, Berti, with social difficulties and together, they set out to try to discover a comet which her grandfather suspected he had seen. She also becomes acquainted with Berti's uncle, Matt, who she knew as a young teenager as he was her brother's friend. Wounded as a soldier, his life dreams have been shattered through life changing imjuries.
You follow Alice's story through three different periods in her life and find out why she left University and what happened to her friends from that period. At times, this is an emotional read, with some darker issues lying below the surface but ultimately the tone of the story is hopeful.
In short: family, friendship and love
Thanks to the publisher
Once back at home, Alice decides to look back st her grandfather's logbooks and to try to repair his beloved telescope. Along the way, she befriends a young gifted boy, Berti, with social difficulties and together, they set out to try to discover a comet which her grandfather suspected he had seen. She also becomes acquainted with Berti's uncle, Matt, who she knew as a young teenager as he was her brother's friend. Wounded as a soldier, his life dreams have been shattered through life changing imjuries.
You follow Alice's story through three different periods in her life and find out why she left University and what happened to her friends from that period. At times, this is an emotional read, with some darker issues lying below the surface but ultimately the tone of the story is hopeful.
In short: family, friendship and love
Thanks to the publisher
June 22, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for a free e-ARC of 'See the Stars' by Eleanor Ray.
What a heart-warming book!
'They looked at each other, and she saw the light of the stars reflected in his eyes. She loved these moments: the two of them together while the rest of the world was sleeping.'
See the Stars follows Alice Thorington, a former scientist who is now working long hours in the city (something to do with finances and stocks, not my bag haha). Alice has a health scare and ends up needing to take time off work, staying with her mum at her childhood home in Yorkshire. She has to adjust to slowing down, come to terms with a few different ghosts from her past, and consider what she actually wants out of her life. The story follows two time periods - the current day and then flashes back to Alice's past.
I loved every minute of this story. The exploration of the relationships between characters is top-tier- the flashbacks to Alice's relationship with her grandad particularly tugged my heart strings.
I really enjoyed seeing Alice's growth throughout - especially after shouting at the book for her to do or realise certain things!
Overall, solid 4 stars - I will definitely revisit this book :)
What a heart-warming book!
'They looked at each other, and she saw the light of the stars reflected in his eyes. She loved these moments: the two of them together while the rest of the world was sleeping.'
See the Stars follows Alice Thorington, a former scientist who is now working long hours in the city (something to do with finances and stocks, not my bag haha). Alice has a health scare and ends up needing to take time off work, staying with her mum at her childhood home in Yorkshire. She has to adjust to slowing down, come to terms with a few different ghosts from her past, and consider what she actually wants out of her life. The story follows two time periods - the current day and then flashes back to Alice's past.
I loved every minute of this story. The exploration of the relationships between characters is top-tier- the flashbacks to Alice's relationship with her grandad particularly tugged my heart strings.
I really enjoyed seeing Alice's growth throughout - especially after shouting at the book for her to do or realise certain things!
Overall, solid 4 stars - I will definitely revisit this book :)
July 20, 2025
See the Stars by Eleanor Ray
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Do you ever feel that life isn't going to plan?
When Alice Thorington collapses in the street after a particularly hellish day at work, she must finally admit to herself that her outwardly happy life - steady relationship, well-paid job, beautiful flat in the city - isn't everything she'd hoped it would be. Burnt out by long hours and living a life that doesn't fulfil her dreams, Alice returns home to Yorkshire.
Her childhood home brings complicated family dynamics, a rediscovery of her passion for stargazing and two new Berti, a boy who finds it easier to count the stars than interact with people, and Matt, her brother's best friend and Alice's teenage crush. With each of them facing their own struggles, can the stars that meant so much to Alice in her past help them to find their way in the present?
My Opinion
See the Stars was my first book by Eleanor Ray and it was an entertaining read. Eleanor Ray uses two timelines, one set while Alice is at university and one set in the present day. See the Stars was a well-written, heart-warming novel. A delightful, easy read.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Do you ever feel that life isn't going to plan?
When Alice Thorington collapses in the street after a particularly hellish day at work, she must finally admit to herself that her outwardly happy life - steady relationship, well-paid job, beautiful flat in the city - isn't everything she'd hoped it would be. Burnt out by long hours and living a life that doesn't fulfil her dreams, Alice returns home to Yorkshire.
Her childhood home brings complicated family dynamics, a rediscovery of her passion for stargazing and two new Berti, a boy who finds it easier to count the stars than interact with people, and Matt, her brother's best friend and Alice's teenage crush. With each of them facing their own struggles, can the stars that meant so much to Alice in her past help them to find their way in the present?
My Opinion
See the Stars was my first book by Eleanor Ray and it was an entertaining read. Eleanor Ray uses two timelines, one set while Alice is at university and one set in the present day. See the Stars was a well-written, heart-warming novel. A delightful, easy read.
Rating 4/5
August 15, 2025
Ebook provided by NetGalley. Thank you.
Alice is an astronomer. Previously she was studying for her masters degree but left it suddenly and joined the world of finance in the city. As a kid she loved nothing more than stargazing with her beloved grandpa until his descent into dementia and rambles about a comet no-one else could see.
Following a collapse at work and the diagnosis of a mini-stroke Alice goes home to Yorkshire to recuperate, re-discovering her grandpa's logbooks in the process and maybe he wasn't wrong about the comet? Along the way she reconnects with her teenage crush Matt, through his nerdy, autistic nephew Berti. I loved Berti as a character and his autism is obvious to me but unfortunately never named on page which is my only slight bugbear with this novel
Told in dual timeline between Alice's time as a child and her university journey and present day this is an emotional, engaging story and I didn't find the space stuff too complicated or overwhelming in the way it was written. The characters were all well-written and easy to connect to. I was hoping for a certain outcome and I was not disappointed but no spoilers here of course.
Alice is an astronomer. Previously she was studying for her masters degree but left it suddenly and joined the world of finance in the city. As a kid she loved nothing more than stargazing with her beloved grandpa until his descent into dementia and rambles about a comet no-one else could see.
Following a collapse at work and the diagnosis of a mini-stroke Alice goes home to Yorkshire to recuperate, re-discovering her grandpa's logbooks in the process and maybe he wasn't wrong about the comet? Along the way she reconnects with her teenage crush Matt, through his nerdy, autistic nephew Berti. I loved Berti as a character and his autism is obvious to me but unfortunately never named on page which is my only slight bugbear with this novel
Told in dual timeline between Alice's time as a child and her university journey and present day this is an emotional, engaging story and I didn't find the space stuff too complicated or overwhelming in the way it was written. The characters were all well-written and easy to connect to. I was hoping for a certain outcome and I was not disappointed but no spoilers here of course.
September 15, 2025
I finished my first book of September in the early hours of the first day of the month, and I absolutely adored it. Quite without meaning to, I’ve been reading the upcoming festival Authors (although I set good intentions last year and wasn’t able to fit it in!) and every single title so far has hooked me.
A tender, luminous novel, the emotional reach of this book feels as infinite as the night sky. This book will speak to everyone differently. For me, it reminded me that we need darkness to see the stars, returning home is the bravest journey, to reclaim forgotten dreams and revive forgotten memories, and in the night sky we can find a shared humanity. Hope is incremental, not explosive, and see the stars gently reminds us of this.
It also served to remind me not to shy away from topics that might be the source of stress currently. The contents of this book and what happens to the main character are a little close to home, and reading about it was absolutely the best thing to do.
A tender, luminous novel, the emotional reach of this book feels as infinite as the night sky. This book will speak to everyone differently. For me, it reminded me that we need darkness to see the stars, returning home is the bravest journey, to reclaim forgotten dreams and revive forgotten memories, and in the night sky we can find a shared humanity. Hope is incremental, not explosive, and see the stars gently reminds us of this.
It also served to remind me not to shy away from topics that might be the source of stress currently. The contents of this book and what happens to the main character are a little close to home, and reading about it was absolutely the best thing to do.
April 14, 2025
This is the second book I have read by this author and I have enjoyed both.
Alice’s life is changed as she suffers a life changing illness. She is forced to leave her highly paid and stressful City job to convalesce back at home in Yorkshire.
Her story is told in two timelines - her childhood, adolescence and university years and her current life. You learn about her defining relationships, her obsession with space and her checkered relationship with her mother.
While at home, Alice meets Matt again - a childhood friend of her brother’s invalided from the army - and is introduced to Berti - a teenager struggling with growing up and in need of a friend. All three become involved in finding a comet previously discovered by her grandfather.
She is forced to evaluate her life and decide what and who are important to her.
Heartwarming and full of hope.
Alice’s life is changed as she suffers a life changing illness. She is forced to leave her highly paid and stressful City job to convalesce back at home in Yorkshire.
Her story is told in two timelines - her childhood, adolescence and university years and her current life. You learn about her defining relationships, her obsession with space and her checkered relationship with her mother.
While at home, Alice meets Matt again - a childhood friend of her brother’s invalided from the army - and is introduced to Berti - a teenager struggling with growing up and in need of a friend. All three become involved in finding a comet previously discovered by her grandfather.
She is forced to evaluate her life and decide what and who are important to her.
Heartwarming and full of hope.
October 6, 2025
You can only see the stars if there is darkness!
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. I did like this book but it took me a long time to read and I actually restarted it 4 times as it didn’t excite or ‘grab’ me. Alice remembers the nights her grandfather woke her up to look at the stars and his hopes of discovering a new comet. As an adult she has a successful career and a fiancée but one day she collapses, is diagnosed with having had a mini stroke and returns to her childhood home to recuperate. There she rediscovers her love of the stars and, finding all but one of her grandfathers’s notebooks, is joined by a boy, Berti, obsessed with searching for the comet her grandfather believed he saw.
Underlying the story is the idea that, if possible, we need to find what and who are important to us … to follow our dreams to find fulfilment.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. I did like this book but it took me a long time to read and I actually restarted it 4 times as it didn’t excite or ‘grab’ me. Alice remembers the nights her grandfather woke her up to look at the stars and his hopes of discovering a new comet. As an adult she has a successful career and a fiancée but one day she collapses, is diagnosed with having had a mini stroke and returns to her childhood home to recuperate. There she rediscovers her love of the stars and, finding all but one of her grandfathers’s notebooks, is joined by a boy, Berti, obsessed with searching for the comet her grandfather believed he saw.
Underlying the story is the idea that, if possible, we need to find what and who are important to us … to follow our dreams to find fulfilment.
November 2, 2025
This just didn't work for me, I didn't like the main character Alice and her self absorption. I didn't like the cutesy autistic child obsessed with astronomy, who just happens to be a prodigy at looking for comets. It all just felt far too predictable, and some of the astronomy felt really clunky.
I can see the cute, uplifting storyline that the author was reaching for, but I think I just got distracted by the idea that someone with a background in astronomy wouldn't have bothered to go to a proper dark sky area with a decent telescope to try and see a comet they were so obsessed with, instead of standing in a garden in the middle of a town with an antique telescope held together with tape.
I can see the cute, uplifting storyline that the author was reaching for, but I think I just got distracted by the idea that someone with a background in astronomy wouldn't have bothered to go to a proper dark sky area with a decent telescope to try and see a comet they were so obsessed with, instead of standing in a garden in the middle of a town with an antique telescope held together with tape.
June 1, 2025
Set across two timelines. Alice has a gorgeous fiancé, a flat in London, a job in finance - the full package.. until she burns out and is signed off work to recover.
Growing up with a single mother, Alice is really close to her Grandad who shares with her his love of astronomy.
Can present day Alice recapture her passion for the stars and readjust to a slower pace of life?
The epitome of heartwarming, this book is packed with characters you really want to cheer for.
A lovely read, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the copy to review! Thank you to Eleanor Ray for writing such a lovely book!
Growing up with a single mother, Alice is really close to her Grandad who shares with her his love of astronomy.
Can present day Alice recapture her passion for the stars and readjust to a slower pace of life?
The epitome of heartwarming, this book is packed with characters you really want to cheer for.
A lovely read, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the copy to review! Thank you to Eleanor Ray for writing such a lovely book!
June 21, 2025
This was a gorgeous book. Easy to read but that does not mean it was dumbed down. It was intelligent and interesting. I learnt a lot about the stars a subject I knew nothing about. I loved the characters especially the gentle intelligent way Berti and Zelda were treated. I was delighted when Alice made the decisions she did and found I was rooting for her throughout the book. This was my first Eleanor Ray book but it won't be my last. Definitely an author to watch.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2025
See the Stars was a moving read but didn’t always hold my interest. It’s the story of Alice, who after experiencing burn out returns to her Yorkshire home to heal.
The novel moves between past and present and the author excels at characterisation as the reader sees Alice build new relationships and reflect on others.
I didn’t particularly warm to Alice however and I think this is partly due to the author’s style of writing which for me didn’t flow well.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
The novel moves between past and present and the author excels at characterisation as the reader sees Alice build new relationships and reflect on others.
I didn’t particularly warm to Alice however and I think this is partly due to the author’s style of writing which for me didn’t flow well.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
August 15, 2025
With thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for an advance review copy.
This is a romance / finding oneself / girl-does-science begging-to-be-turned-into-a-romcom sort of novel in the vein of Lessons in Chemistry (but with a cat not a dog) or The Theory of (Not Quite) Everything (with neurodiverse child instead of adult).
It is readable enough, but not particularly engaging or stimulating. I found it disappointingly predictable and slight despite the astrophysics science bits. Very much a beach read, and pretty forgettable.
This is a romance / finding oneself / girl-does-science begging-to-be-turned-into-a-romcom sort of novel in the vein of Lessons in Chemistry (but with a cat not a dog) or The Theory of (Not Quite) Everything (with neurodiverse child instead of adult).
It is readable enough, but not particularly engaging or stimulating. I found it disappointingly predictable and slight despite the astrophysics science bits. Very much a beach read, and pretty forgettable.
November 13, 2025
This is a heart-warming story about Alice, who has a stressful but successful career in London, until she falls ill and needs to recuperate at her childhood home in Yorkshire. There, she reacquaints with a childhood friend and meets a thirteen-year-old boy in a library, who is also passionate about the stars and space.
The story switches between the present day and Alice's years at university in Edinburgh.
The characters are likeable, although I was occasionally overwhelmed by the passages on astronomy, but those with a keen interest may feel differently!
The story switches between the present day and Alice's years at university in Edinburgh.
The characters are likeable, although I was occasionally overwhelmed by the passages on astronomy, but those with a keen interest may feel differently!
June 23, 2025
3.5 Stars
A heart-warming and heart-felt novel which whilst an easy read was delightfully enjoyable. Great characters (past and present), and interesting and emotive plot, and tons of fascinating astronomical facts. This isn't an author I've read before but I'll be checking out more of her books.
A heart-warming and heart-felt novel which whilst an easy read was delightfully enjoyable. Great characters (past and present), and interesting and emotive plot, and tons of fascinating astronomical facts. This isn't an author I've read before but I'll be checking out more of her books.
July 22, 2025
See the Stars is a book that captivated me from the very first chapter and held my heart until the very last page. I absolutely adored this book and struggled to put it down at times. It’s an uplifting but at times emotional read that would warm even the hardest of hearts . This story revolves around Alice Thornington who returns to her childhood home in Yorkshire after being signed off work due to ill health. It’s here we discover more about Alice and are introduced to other great characters and one of those is young teenager Berti who completely and utterly stole my heart. I loved the dual timelines the past when we hear about Alice as a young child and then her college life and the present day . Every single part of this book was so beautiful written and time seemed to stand still as I made my way through this heartfelt read. I can’t recommend this book highly enough and I’d give it more than five stars if I could.
April 10, 2025
I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I was hooked from the first page of this book, the characters were wonderful and it had a great story. I will be recommending this book to everyone I know.
June 25, 2025
A bit soppy but not a standard storyline and lovely to read. I liked the unusual characters and I got quite hooked on it. I found myself reading for longer and longer as time went on. I recommend this for a summer or feel good read. Thanks to NetGalley and Piatkus for the advance copy.
August 2, 2025
I loved Eleanor Ray's first two books, and this one didn't disappoint! The themes of astronomy were so interesting, and I like that this tackled heavier themes of grief and trauma. My only gripe is the Matt dynamic.
April 6, 2025
See the Stars tells the story of Alice, a woman in her thirties who experiences a mini stroke one day, after working flat out for years in a highly stressful job. We find out that Alice is holding onto grief and guilt, choosing a life that herself that helps her to avoid tackling these issues.
I think her story will resonate with a lot of people today, working jobs that they don’t enjoy, heading towards burnout and potential health problems. The author deals with this really well and I really enjoyed seeing Alice slowly change from work-obsessed to carefree, realising that we shouldn’t be living to work but that there is more to life that this.
Berti was a great character and added another layer to the story that I really enjoyed. I did think that the story was too predictable and perhaps a bit too simple but it was a nice, enjoyable read.
I think her story will resonate with a lot of people today, working jobs that they don’t enjoy, heading towards burnout and potential health problems. The author deals with this really well and I really enjoyed seeing Alice slowly change from work-obsessed to carefree, realising that we shouldn’t be living to work but that there is more to life that this.
Berti was a great character and added another layer to the story that I really enjoyed. I did think that the story was too predictable and perhaps a bit too simple but it was a nice, enjoyable read.
July 26, 2025
This is a beautifully written book with great characters. I loved it.
August 5, 2025
Such a beautiful, gentle read. I really enjoyed it and devoured it. Great characters.
Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
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January 18, 2026DNF really tried with this book. I liked the style of writing, but went on too much about stargazing
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