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Apprenticed to the Gods #1
To Speak with the Stars
A reluctant mage reborn in flames.
A passionate princess fleeing her fate.
A powerful telepath at the mercy of the world’s thoughts.
A spirited goddess craving adventure.
With Penumbra on the brink of an ice age, Eos dreams of helping to create the False Star each dawn to ensure the survival of his people. But there's just one problem: he cannot speak the star's name.
In the eye of the storm, Rysa was raised to rule at her mother's side. But a terrible secret has been kept from the princess—one that will tear her life apart.
Deep within the molten Heart of Penumbra, a secret society gathers. Elves, dwarves, fauns, ice dragons, and magma merfolk prepare to seize the stolen throne and end the enchanted storm before it devours the realm.
Perfect for fans of high fantasy and queer-normative worlds, this novel boasts heart-pounding action, tender breaks without spice, and a full cast of diverse characters and vibrant creatures, including plenty of dragons. Grab your copy and join Eos, Rysa, and their immortal mentors as they race to save Penumbra.
A passionate princess fleeing her fate.
A powerful telepath at the mercy of the world’s thoughts.
A spirited goddess craving adventure.
With Penumbra on the brink of an ice age, Eos dreams of helping to create the False Star each dawn to ensure the survival of his people. But there's just one problem: he cannot speak the star's name.
In the eye of the storm, Rysa was raised to rule at her mother's side. But a terrible secret has been kept from the princess—one that will tear her life apart.
Deep within the molten Heart of Penumbra, a secret society gathers. Elves, dwarves, fauns, ice dragons, and magma merfolk prepare to seize the stolen throne and end the enchanted storm before it devours the realm.
Perfect for fans of high fantasy and queer-normative worlds, this novel boasts heart-pounding action, tender breaks without spice, and a full cast of diverse characters and vibrant creatures, including plenty of dragons. Grab your copy and join Eos, Rysa, and their immortal mentors as they race to save Penumbra.
449 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2025
12 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
K.V. Wilson
9 books79 followersK.V. Wilson is a fantasy author focusing on mythical creatures, magic, found family, and a dash of romance. Born in Alberta, she lives in British Columbia, Canada, with her husband and dog.
A hobbit disguised as a human, she hopes to one day be swept away to a hidden world where dragons and other fantastical creatures dwell. Until that moment, she can be found sitting by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book.
A hobbit disguised as a human, she hopes to one day be swept away to a hidden world where dragons and other fantastical creatures dwell. Until that moment, she can be found sitting by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 1, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful book.
The world-building is superb. I love the concepts for the magic system and the sheer diversity of the various species.
The set-up of the story and the conflict between the various factions is done in a way which keeps the reader fully engaged throughout. The growth and development of the characters as a result of their life experiences adds credibility to the story.
Important issues relating to identity, race, gender and politics are explored and exposed, adding another layer of realistic intrigue.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series when it gets published.
The world-building is superb. I love the concepts for the magic system and the sheer diversity of the various species.
The set-up of the story and the conflict between the various factions is done in a way which keeps the reader fully engaged throughout. The growth and development of the characters as a result of their life experiences adds credibility to the story.
Important issues relating to identity, race, gender and politics are explored and exposed, adding another layer of realistic intrigue.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series when it gets published.
September 8, 2025
I love fantasy books that have brand new magic systems, and this book provided just that. This book can only be described as a high fantasy, with its intricate powers, different races & inclusion of gods. Not to mention the many, many dragons! However the story also includes some sci-fi elements with tech, labs and experiments. Every character has a solid back story and they all weave together to form the tapestry that is this story. I do really commend the author for their character work, they are complex and have a great depth to them. They also include representation of real life aspects - disability, neurodiversity & queer rep can all be found in this book. It's done really tastefully & adds to the readers experience. I do wish there was a little more world building but that's the only thing I'd like to see more of. Hopefully this will be improved with book 2 as the plot is heading that way!
August 30, 2025
Four Point Five Stars
What a cliffhangar!
The story starts with Eos and Rysa, two young people whose lives are doomed from the beginning. In the world of Penumbra, the False Star is the one that gives warmth in the world of continuous snow. Rysa is a telepath and she serves the Blood Queen, or so Eos believes.
But things are not what they seem.
Within a very short time, Eos and Rysa get separated as Eos attempts to steal the Tome to correct his reading challenges.
But things do not go as planned.
Things turn worse for Eos when he is held captive by the Blood Queen.
Then the world building continues as the story goes to the Syrari and eventually ‘Goddess’ Pel comes into the story and the connection of the Goddess with the Blood Queen.
Though this is Eos and Rysa’s story, I particularly enjoyed Pel’s character. Though Pel knows that she owes all that she is in the present because of the O’lai, her love and fun-loving nature truly makes her the Goddess in the story.
The quick glimpse into Pel’s past brings the others including Thyme, Bay, Clover and the rest who also come in the present in different roles and this time in connection with Eos and Rysa.
Eos is the broken hero (literally) and I particularly enjoyed how Pel explained the working of the Olai to make him whole after his ‘sacrifice’.
Pel’s explanations made the world building in the story more clear.
Rysa originally comes across as snobbish, but as she realizes what she is and her willingness to learn and move on, she is immensely likeable and headstrong.
All that is necessary because of what the Blood Queen truly wants from Rysa.
Magic comes to those who go looking for it. At least the story made me believe it. The fear of magic in the world in the past and the various Gods and their lives in the present because of the Blood Queen, made the world more believable.
Since telepathy is an essential element of the story, I liked how the readers can easily make out the spoken words and the thoughts of the characters as they converse with each other.
Lovely characters and excellent world building and a neat beginning to the series.
Enjoyable start to a new fantasy series!
What a cliffhangar!
The story starts with Eos and Rysa, two young people whose lives are doomed from the beginning. In the world of Penumbra, the False Star is the one that gives warmth in the world of continuous snow. Rysa is a telepath and she serves the Blood Queen, or so Eos believes.
But things are not what they seem.
Within a very short time, Eos and Rysa get separated as Eos attempts to steal the Tome to correct his reading challenges.
But things do not go as planned.
Things turn worse for Eos when he is held captive by the Blood Queen.
Then the world building continues as the story goes to the Syrari and eventually ‘Goddess’ Pel comes into the story and the connection of the Goddess with the Blood Queen.
Though this is Eos and Rysa’s story, I particularly enjoyed Pel’s character. Though Pel knows that she owes all that she is in the present because of the O’lai, her love and fun-loving nature truly makes her the Goddess in the story.
The quick glimpse into Pel’s past brings the others including Thyme, Bay, Clover and the rest who also come in the present in different roles and this time in connection with Eos and Rysa.
Eos is the broken hero (literally) and I particularly enjoyed how Pel explained the working of the Olai to make him whole after his ‘sacrifice’.
Pel’s explanations made the world building in the story more clear.
Rysa originally comes across as snobbish, but as she realizes what she is and her willingness to learn and move on, she is immensely likeable and headstrong.
All that is necessary because of what the Blood Queen truly wants from Rysa.
Magic comes to those who go looking for it. At least the story made me believe it. The fear of magic in the world in the past and the various Gods and their lives in the present because of the Blood Queen, made the world more believable.
Since telepathy is an essential element of the story, I liked how the readers can easily make out the spoken words and the thoughts of the characters as they converse with each other.
Lovely characters and excellent world building and a neat beginning to the series.
Enjoyable start to a new fantasy series!
September 25, 2025
To Speak with the Stars by KV Wilson
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Tropes: disability and neurodivergent rep, magic gifted by the gods, queer normative society, telepathy, found family, dark high fantasy, ice dragons and magma merfolk, multi-pov
“In order to rise, you must first learn to fall”
Wow wow wow, everything about this book was magnificent, the magic, the world building, the plot development, the character development. I don’t think I have ever read a book that depicts love in such a breath taking way. Just absolutely stunning, the different themes of love and how it can drive our lives. It was absolutely beautiful, this book drew me in and made me feel. I could see envision the imagery of this book and felt so connected.
This story deeply touches my heart as the one of the male main characters has a speech impediment and I grew up with one for years. It’s nice to see this, the journey of self love and working through trauma.
I can’t wait for this masterpiece to be published. Thanks again KV Wilson this was a true gift to experience and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Tropes: disability and neurodivergent rep, magic gifted by the gods, queer normative society, telepathy, found family, dark high fantasy, ice dragons and magma merfolk, multi-pov
“In order to rise, you must first learn to fall”
Wow wow wow, everything about this book was magnificent, the magic, the world building, the plot development, the character development. I don’t think I have ever read a book that depicts love in such a breath taking way. Just absolutely stunning, the different themes of love and how it can drive our lives. It was absolutely beautiful, this book drew me in and made me feel. I could see envision the imagery of this book and felt so connected.
This story deeply touches my heart as the one of the male main characters has a speech impediment and I grew up with one for years. It’s nice to see this, the journey of self love and working through trauma.
I can’t wait for this masterpiece to be published. Thanks again KV Wilson this was a true gift to experience and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!!
September 14, 2025
This High Fantasy read will tug at your heartstrings! KV Wilson does an amazing job building the world of Penumbra and its Five Races. You’ll be intrigued by the intricacies of the abilities of the races and the history behind Penumbra’s ruler and its people. Most of all, you will FEEL the plight of Rysa and Eos as they grapple with the truth or lack there of from those around them. Truly a great read!
September 19, 2025
This book was a pleasant surprise. This is all another awesome epic fantasy series in the making. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for book two. If you love epic fantasy, found family, fauns, elves, dwarves, fiery magma mermaids, awesome world building and epic magical war, this is totally for you. Not to mention Ice Dragons. 🐉 Zzortis is amazing and so snarky, I love it.
Highly recommend
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Highly recommend
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
December 3, 2025
This book has some of the most unique and fascinating worldbuilding I've seen in a long time! Magma mermaids? Dragons based on dragonflies instead of reptiles? Uncontrollable magic? Sentient animal companions with telepathy? Loved it all! The characters are also great - a complex and diverse cast that you can really root for. Can't wait to see where book 2 takes us!
September 8, 2025
Penumbra is a world of perpetual winter where its inhabitants struggle to survive the harsh conditions. One of the only things that brings warmth is the False Star, which the Queen’s Guard— Syrari, those who possess the power of fire— pool their power to raise every dawn.
Eos, son of the Master Syrarus Ezrelon—a man whose disappointment in his son is never-ending—longs to be part of the Guard, to be a hero to the people of Penumbra, but there’s a big problem: He cannot properly pronounce the name Syra, the goddess of the star. With he help of his friend Rysa—who has been hiding her identity as princess of the realm—he hatches a plan to steal the Syrari Tome that he believes can help him show his father he’s more than a stablehand. But that plan doesn’t go the way Eos planned, unleashing more than anyone in Penumbra bargained for—an escalation of a war that had been silently fought for a thousand years.
To Speak with the Stars is a fast paced epic fantasy that introduces us to a cast of diverse characters. Elves, fauns, dragons, and magma merfolk live side-by-side and work together for the common good of overcoming the Ice Queen to make their world a better place. Woven into this cast are disabled characters, non-binary characters, and same-sex couples who are seamlessly represented; their “differences” aren’t pushed on the reader, making them tokens, but they are shown as equal members of the society and accepted for who they are. All the characters—even the villainous queen—are fleshed out with interesting backstories to show how they played a role in Penumbra becoming what it is.
The writing is engaging and doesn’t disappoint on action scenes, especially when the queen’s army and the rebels’ army battle, but, as I think any great story has, there is a little romance as well. Eos and Rysa’s sweet realization that they’re in love and Pel and Thyme’s lifelong commitment to one another make us identify with them more despite them being elves, fauns, and magma merfolk and, of course, add suspense as we hope to find them reunited in such dangerous times.
One thing I did struggle with at first was Thyme’s pronouns—“they” and “them.” I figure this is a me issue because I don’t know anyone who uses these pronouns. After a while, my brain associated them with Thyme’s character and it became easier for me.
Overall, I think this is a great, fast-paced fantasy book. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next!
Eos, son of the Master Syrarus Ezrelon—a man whose disappointment in his son is never-ending—longs to be part of the Guard, to be a hero to the people of Penumbra, but there’s a big problem: He cannot properly pronounce the name Syra, the goddess of the star. With he help of his friend Rysa—who has been hiding her identity as princess of the realm—he hatches a plan to steal the Syrari Tome that he believes can help him show his father he’s more than a stablehand. But that plan doesn’t go the way Eos planned, unleashing more than anyone in Penumbra bargained for—an escalation of a war that had been silently fought for a thousand years.
To Speak with the Stars is a fast paced epic fantasy that introduces us to a cast of diverse characters. Elves, fauns, dragons, and magma merfolk live side-by-side and work together for the common good of overcoming the Ice Queen to make their world a better place. Woven into this cast are disabled characters, non-binary characters, and same-sex couples who are seamlessly represented; their “differences” aren’t pushed on the reader, making them tokens, but they are shown as equal members of the society and accepted for who they are. All the characters—even the villainous queen—are fleshed out with interesting backstories to show how they played a role in Penumbra becoming what it is.
The writing is engaging and doesn’t disappoint on action scenes, especially when the queen’s army and the rebels’ army battle, but, as I think any great story has, there is a little romance as well. Eos and Rysa’s sweet realization that they’re in love and Pel and Thyme’s lifelong commitment to one another make us identify with them more despite them being elves, fauns, and magma merfolk and, of course, add suspense as we hope to find them reunited in such dangerous times.
One thing I did struggle with at first was Thyme’s pronouns—“they” and “them.” I figure this is a me issue because I don’t know anyone who uses these pronouns. After a while, my brain associated them with Thyme’s character and it became easier for me.
Overall, I think this is a great, fast-paced fantasy book. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next!
January 13, 2026
To Speak with the Stars is absolutely packed with everything I love in a fantasy novel, dragons, magic, gods, rich mythology, and a world that feels so alive you genuinely want to step into it and stay there.
K. V. Wilson has created a setting that feels both epic and intimate, full of wonder, danger, and heart. The magic system, the gods, the creatures (yes, the dragons!), and the emotional journeys of the characters all come together beautifully. This is the kind of fantasy where you can tell the author truly loves their world and that love comes through on every page.
I also have to mention the cover, because it’s stunning. At first glance, I honestly thought it was a woman with flowing hair holding an egg… only to realise later it’s a man. That reveal somehow made me love the artwork even more it’s striking, symbolic, and perfectly suits the story.
This book deserves far more attention than it has received so far, and I’m really glad I discovered it. I’m already planning to read the short story prequel The Shiniest of Scales next, and I cannot wait to see what comes next in the Apprenticed to the Gods series.
If you love imaginative, emotionally grounded fantasy with dragons, gods, and a world you’ll miss as soon as you leave it this one is well worth your time.
K. V. Wilson has created a setting that feels both epic and intimate, full of wonder, danger, and heart. The magic system, the gods, the creatures (yes, the dragons!), and the emotional journeys of the characters all come together beautifully. This is the kind of fantasy where you can tell the author truly loves their world and that love comes through on every page.
I also have to mention the cover, because it’s stunning. At first glance, I honestly thought it was a woman with flowing hair holding an egg… only to realise later it’s a man. That reveal somehow made me love the artwork even more it’s striking, symbolic, and perfectly suits the story.
This book deserves far more attention than it has received so far, and I’m really glad I discovered it. I’m already planning to read the short story prequel The Shiniest of Scales next, and I cannot wait to see what comes next in the Apprenticed to the Gods series.
If you love imaginative, emotionally grounded fantasy with dragons, gods, and a world you’ll miss as soon as you leave it this one is well worth your time.
October 2, 2025
Okay this was a rough one. Not bad, just rough to get through at points. The basic text could have used a little touching up. Not talking basic grammar here. More pacing and phrasing. Especially pacing. There are several points that just seemed to drag on and on. Which oftentimes is a sign of the writer loving their characters and world. Sometimes, however, it is just bad pacing.
Still, I found most of the characters interesting enough. They are certainly unique enough ideas. Especially Pel and Rysa. I mean it’s hard not to like Pel, what with the whole being a volcano goddess thing. Not going to go into graphic detail as I prefer spoiler-free reviews. Just know there are enough characters and they are distinct enough that you will probably find at least one of them to love.
My biggest complaint is one many books possess. Several chapters are basically flashbacks to what happened “a millennium ago”. Some of these were interesting, but they just feel like infodumps too often. That is more of a personal beef, however. I would rate this a 4.5, but we can’t so let’s go with a 4. A great start to a series.
Still, I found most of the characters interesting enough. They are certainly unique enough ideas. Especially Pel and Rysa. I mean it’s hard not to like Pel, what with the whole being a volcano goddess thing. Not going to go into graphic detail as I prefer spoiler-free reviews. Just know there are enough characters and they are distinct enough that you will probably find at least one of them to love.
My biggest complaint is one many books possess. Several chapters are basically flashbacks to what happened “a millennium ago”. Some of these were interesting, but they just feel like infodumps too often. That is more of a personal beef, however. I would rate this a 4.5, but we can’t so let’s go with a 4. A great start to a series.
January 1, 2026
To Speak with the Stars is an imaginative and ambitious epic fantasy that stands out through its creativity, heart, and richly layered world. From magma-surfing Goddess and dragonfly-inspired dragons to telepathic animal companions and uncontrollable magic, the world of Penumbra feels both strange and wonderfully alive. The sheer originality of the setting makes this book a joy for fantasy readers craving something fresh. At the center of the story are Rysa and Eos, reluctant heroes whose journeys of self-doubt and growth are compelling and easy to root for. The supporting cast is equally memorable, with standout characters like the humorous King Zzortis and the formidable Blood Queen. The inclusion of the villain’s origin story adds depth and emotional complexity, making the conflict feel more nuanced than a simple battle of good versus evil. While some sections—particularly the historical flashbacks—can slow the pacing at times, they also reveal the author’s deep love for the world and its history. Overall, this fast-paced, imaginative novel is a strong start to a promising fantasy series, perfect for readers who enjoy epic stakes, clean romance, and richly detailed worldbuilding.
January 3, 2026
Magic and Heart in a Frozen World
This book follows Eos, a young mage who wants to help save Penumbra by raising the False Star each dawn, but he struggles with speaking its name, and Rysa, a princess and telepath whose hidden identity changes everything she thought she knew about her life. I really liked how their journeys are different but connected, and how both characters grow as they face danger, secrets and tough choices.
The world is amazing, full of elves, dwarves, fauns, ice dragons and magma merfolk. The magic system is also really unique. I loved that the story includes characters with disabilities, neurodiversity and queer representation in a way that feels natural and adds depth to the story. The pacing keeps you hooked with action, adventure and emotional moments. Yet there are plenty of surprises that make the world feel alive.
If you enjoy high fantasy with diverse characters, magical creatures and a story about bravery and connection, this is a really engaging read.
This book follows Eos, a young mage who wants to help save Penumbra by raising the False Star each dawn, but he struggles with speaking its name, and Rysa, a princess and telepath whose hidden identity changes everything she thought she knew about her life. I really liked how their journeys are different but connected, and how both characters grow as they face danger, secrets and tough choices.
The world is amazing, full of elves, dwarves, fauns, ice dragons and magma merfolk. The magic system is also really unique. I loved that the story includes characters with disabilities, neurodiversity and queer representation in a way that feels natural and adds depth to the story. The pacing keeps you hooked with action, adventure and emotional moments. Yet there are plenty of surprises that make the world feel alive.
If you enjoy high fantasy with diverse characters, magical creatures and a story about bravery and connection, this is a really engaging read.
December 28, 2025
To Speak with the Stars is an immersive and emotionally rich dark fantasy that immediately draws the reader into a vivid and carefully constructed world. K.V. Wilson creates a realm on the edge of collapse where magic, destiny, and survival are deeply intertwined. The story shines through its characters, each carrying their own burdens and desires while navigating forces far greater than themselves. Eos is a compelling protagonist whose struggle with his own limitations adds genuine depth, while Rysa’s journey is both powerful and heartbreaking as hidden truths reshape her understanding of her world. The supporting cast and mythological creatures add texture and wonder, making Penumbra feel alive and expansive. The pacing strikes a strong balance between action, introspection, and worldbuilding, allowing emotional moments to land without slowing the story. This book delivers heart, tension, and imagination in equal measure and sets a strong foundation for what promises to be an unforgettable series.
September 5, 2025
This novel is an imaginative dive into a realm filled with wonder, danger, and unforgettable characters. The author weaves together threads of destiny, rebellion, and identity in a way that feels both epic and deeply personal. The pacing carries readers from sweeping battles to moments of quiet reflection, ensuring there’s never a dull turn of the page.
Also, the landscape itself becomes a character, icy wastelands, fiery depths, and skies brimming with mystery paint a vivid backdrop for the journey. The relationships among the cast are tender, layered, and genuine, providing warmth amidst the looming darkness.
A thrilling and heartfelt adventure that refuses to follow predictable paths, this is a story that will resonate with readers long after the last page.
Also, the landscape itself becomes a character, icy wastelands, fiery depths, and skies brimming with mystery paint a vivid backdrop for the journey. The relationships among the cast are tender, layered, and genuine, providing warmth amidst the looming darkness.
A thrilling and heartfelt adventure that refuses to follow predictable paths, this is a story that will resonate with readers long after the last page.
September 10, 2025
To Speak with the Stars has all the things I love to see in a fantasy book: a good vs evil conflict, reluctant heroes, diverse characters, beautiful world-building (hello, magma surfing!), and of course, dragons.
I really enjoyed that not only did we get to see our heroes, Rysa and Eos, discovering their powers, but we also got to see how the villain discovered hers. From the moment we first met the Blood Queen, I couldn’t help but despise her. However, the chapters of her past and how she ended up becoming our current day villain were some of my favorites in the book. What can I say? I love a good villain origin story.
I look forward to seeing how our heroes grow into their powers and (hopefully!) bring peace back to Penumbra in the rest of the series.
I really enjoyed that not only did we get to see our heroes, Rysa and Eos, discovering their powers, but we also got to see how the villain discovered hers. From the moment we first met the Blood Queen, I couldn’t help but despise her. However, the chapters of her past and how she ended up becoming our current day villain were some of my favorites in the book. What can I say? I love a good villain origin story.
I look forward to seeing how our heroes grow into their powers and (hopefully!) bring peace back to Penumbra in the rest of the series.
September 14, 2025
Each time I read a book about a doubtful character and their capabilities I get excited to see the growth of their craft and mind, or the blunder of it! Wilson wrote another masterpiece. I enjoyed this book and the humorous king known as Zzortis, the amiable and complex folks that surround Rysa and Eos are oooh so richly written and glorious. Gotta love the growth stages of Crystalkin in how Zzortis explained about the juveniles lol! To Speak with the Stars is a fast-paced page turner, if you like a dash of casual yearning and clean romance in an environment of frost and snow, then this epic fantasy read is for you!
September 21, 2025
This is an incredibly interesting start to a new world! An interesting magic system, amazing world building, and characters that I adored. There are SO many great fantasy beings represented, it's truly an epic fantasy in scope and story. I love that diversity is represented in a myriad of ways and that we get so many backstories. It definitely sets you up to be excited over what comes next!
December 6, 2025
Well written with surprising twists and great characters. I loved it!
January 30, 2026
A complex, well crafted and exciting tale of love, courage, adventure and self discovery. Also dragons, fauns, elves, dwarves and awesome lava mer-people. Much magic.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews