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Stariel #1
הלורד של סטאריאל
הלורד של סטאריאל מת. יחי הלורד החדש! אבל מי זה יהיה?
אולי אחוזת סטאריאל הקסומה תבחר בבנו הבכור והלא־מועדף של הלורד המנוח? ואולי היא תבחר באחיין האהוב עליו, בעל חוש־האדמה החזק ביותר? מכל מקום היא ודאי לא תבחר בהֶטה – הבת השערורייתית שברחה מהבית לפני שנים כדי ללמוד אחיזת עיניים – וטוב שכך.
הֶטה שבה הביתה להלוויה של אביה, ולפחות עד טקס הבחירה עליה להסתדר איכשהו עם קרובי משפחתה התימהוניים ולהימנע מהסתבכות עם גברים מקומיים מעצבנים אך מושכים. אחר כך היא תוכל לעזוב את סטאריאל ולחזור לחייה הנוחים בעיר הבירה.
אבל טקס הבחירה צופן בחובו הפתעה גדולה למשפחה כולה וללורד הנבחר, ועד מהרה הם יידרשו להתמודד עם בעיות חמורות עוד יותר – בעיות מכונפות, קטלניות ויפהפיות. לראשונה זה מאות שנים הפֵיות שבות לממלכת בני האדם, ואיש מלבד הלורד של סטאריאל לא יוכל לשמור על ביטחון האחוזה.
הלורד של סטאריאל הוא הספר הראשון בסדרת סטאריאל של הסופרת הניו זילנדית איי. ג’יי. לנקסטר – סדרת קוזי־פנטזי רומנטית חמימה על פיות, אחוזות קסומות ומשפחות מסובכות.
אולי אחוזת סטאריאל הקסומה תבחר בבנו הבכור והלא־מועדף של הלורד המנוח? ואולי היא תבחר באחיין האהוב עליו, בעל חוש־האדמה החזק ביותר? מכל מקום היא ודאי לא תבחר בהֶטה – הבת השערורייתית שברחה מהבית לפני שנים כדי ללמוד אחיזת עיניים – וטוב שכך.
הֶטה שבה הביתה להלוויה של אביה, ולפחות עד טקס הבחירה עליה להסתדר איכשהו עם קרובי משפחתה התימהוניים ולהימנע מהסתבכות עם גברים מקומיים מעצבנים אך מושכים. אחר כך היא תוכל לעזוב את סטאריאל ולחזור לחייה הנוחים בעיר הבירה.
אבל טקס הבחירה צופן בחובו הפתעה גדולה למשפחה כולה וללורד הנבחר, ועד מהרה הם יידרשו להתמודד עם בעיות חמורות עוד יותר – בעיות מכונפות, קטלניות ויפהפיות. לראשונה זה מאות שנים הפֵיות שבות לממלכת בני האדם, ואיש מלבד הלורד של סטאריאל לא יוכל לשמור על ביטחון האחוזה.
הלורד של סטאריאל הוא הספר הראשון בסדרת סטאריאל של הסופרת הניו זילנדית איי. ג’יי. לנקסטר – סדרת קוזי־פנטזי רומנטית חמימה על פיות, אחוזות קסומות ומשפחות מסובכות.
Unknown Binding
First published November 1, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,206 reviews
July 30, 2025
2,5 stars rounded up, because the audiobook was included for free in my Audible membership and both the writing and the narration is quite good.
The same goes for the story: it is OK, mildly interesting but not outstanding in any way.
The worldbuilding starts interestingly enough. We are in an alternate land strongly resembling Victorian/Edwardian England with electricity and some form of cars AND magic and there are strong differences between an urban, more liberal South and a provincial, conservative North.
At first I thought that all landowners are magically connected to their lands and after their death, the lands choose their next heirs, but it later turns out to be true for the land called Stariel only.
Anyhow, as the story went on, the worldbuilding became thin and information was given in a rather haphazard and unsatisfying way, making the plot sloggy and a bit boring.
It did not help that some of the issues that should have been of great momentum, I guessed from almost the first. The intended "big reveals" that were being dangled in front of the reader's nose from time to time and then withheld became underwhelming when we were finally told of them. The author did not give enough information of the customs and social norms of the land for us to feel why some turn of events should be so shocking or had to be agonised over all the time.
Also the late discoveries of these issues by characters just made them appear incredibly dense and careless - not good.
Characters, especially the MC Hetta, came off as annoyingly inactive, just drifting helplessly or carelessly with events or worse: catching up with them too late. Important details, like why the "choosing" went the way it did were glossed over for the sake of possible suspense. Instead, they just dwindled away into insignificance, as we did not know how it was conducted generally and how it should have gone in the first place. When some info was thrown in quite a few chapters later, the momentum had already been lost.
Hetta was fine with leaving it to her brother to find out about all the "land sense", the choosing and the history of the estate. Once again, this meant that neither she, nor the reader got to know about them in time. Marius conducted the digging in the background and we were only offered scraps here and there without structure or much impact.
The "love triangle" was a very thin smokescreen and the romance unconvincing.
Kudos to the author as I understand this has been her first book and it was a good effort for that - but it did not made a lasting impression on me and I am not at all interested to go on with Book 2.
The same goes for the story: it is OK, mildly interesting but not outstanding in any way.
The worldbuilding starts interestingly enough. We are in an alternate land strongly resembling Victorian/Edwardian England with electricity and some form of cars AND magic and there are strong differences between an urban, more liberal South and a provincial, conservative North.
At first I thought that all landowners are magically connected to their lands and after their death, the lands choose their next heirs, but it later turns out to be true for the land called Stariel only.
Anyhow, as the story went on, the worldbuilding became thin and information was given in a rather haphazard and unsatisfying way, making the plot sloggy and a bit boring.
It did not help that some of the issues that should have been of great momentum, I guessed from almost the first. The intended "big reveals" that were being dangled in front of the reader's nose from time to time and then withheld became underwhelming when we were finally told of them. The author did not give enough information of the customs and social norms of the land for us to feel why some turn of events should be so shocking or had to be agonised over all the time.
Also the late discoveries of these issues by characters just made them appear incredibly dense and careless - not good.
Characters, especially the MC Hetta, came off as annoyingly inactive, just drifting helplessly or carelessly with events or worse: catching up with them too late. Important details, like why the "choosing" went the way it did were glossed over for the sake of possible suspense. Instead, they just dwindled away into insignificance, as we did not know how it was conducted generally and how it should have gone in the first place. When some info was thrown in quite a few chapters later, the momentum had already been lost.
Hetta was fine with leaving it to her brother to find out about all the "land sense", the choosing and the history of the estate. Once again, this meant that neither she, nor the reader got to know about them in time. Marius conducted the digging in the background and we were only offered scraps here and there without structure or much impact.
The "love triangle" was a very thin smokescreen and the romance unconvincing.
Kudos to the author as I understand this has been her first book and it was a good effort for that - but it did not made a lasting impression on me and I am not at all interested to go on with Book 2.
July 30, 2022
What a delicious read! So perfect for me! Just the false-light read I'm looking for, but usually can't find anymore these days, as romances tend to be heavy on the romance and explicit sexe to the detriment of the story, and even to characters' development, with stereotypical protagonists.
"Lord of Stariel" is just the kind of family story I love, a mix of fantasy, feminism, romance and humour, a mix of levity and profoundness: subtle but never simplistic. A very feminine read (and I don't mean "for girls"), which will delight readers who appreciate a classic style, beautiful and smart dialogues and an absence of clichés - or rather the presence of twisted ones!
I loved each aspect of the book, but I'll begin with the main character, Hatty, who's a superb feminine protagonist. She's quite feminine and sometimes a flirt (by her own admission), but is also her own person, capable, independent and occasionally irritated by male chauvinism. It was easy to root for her since the very beginning of the story.
The setting of the story is interesting, a mix of a fifties-ish atmosphere, where magic is mundane and used in a pseudo steampunk way as an energy, fuiling classical devices (cars, elektricity,..) and sometimes as an art - but not one well-mannered and respectable ladies should persue. There is also a touch of some romantic and mysterious magic, as the link between the land of Stariel and its family members...
The main tone of the story is rather perky, humorous and good-natured, with the kind of pragmatic romanticism I particularly love (as in Jane Austen's books, in a way). But never superficial. For instance one of the main theme is about festered family relations, how some are bound to be always difficult and even impossible, and won't even be absolved in death. Hatty is a strong minded person, able to accept the fact that her father died before she could see him again, and that they wouldn't have being reconciled even if she had come back home sooner.
The whole story was an easy read, clever and fun, with mysteries and revelations (some easy and exciting to guess, some others just exciting), a lovely bunch of various characters, and a pinch of romance!
I'm looking forward reading the sequences (it will be a quartet) and to buy this first book of the series in its paper version, which will soon be available: the cover is so beautiful!
(I thank Netgalley and Camberion Press for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review)
"Lord of Stariel" is just the kind of family story I love, a mix of fantasy, feminism, romance and humour, a mix of levity and profoundness: subtle but never simplistic. A very feminine read (and I don't mean "for girls"), which will delight readers who appreciate a classic style, beautiful and smart dialogues and an absence of clichés - or rather the presence of twisted ones!
I loved each aspect of the book, but I'll begin with the main character, Hatty, who's a superb feminine protagonist. She's quite feminine and sometimes a flirt (by her own admission), but is also her own person, capable, independent and occasionally irritated by male chauvinism. It was easy to root for her since the very beginning of the story.
The setting of the story is interesting, a mix of a fifties-ish atmosphere, where magic is mundane and used in a pseudo steampunk way as an energy, fuiling classical devices (cars, elektricity,..) and sometimes as an art - but not one well-mannered and respectable ladies should persue. There is also a touch of some romantic and mysterious magic, as the link between the land of Stariel and its family members...
The main tone of the story is rather perky, humorous and good-natured, with the kind of pragmatic romanticism I particularly love (as in Jane Austen's books, in a way). But never superficial. For instance one of the main theme is about festered family relations, how some are bound to be always difficult and even impossible, and won't even be absolved in death. Hatty is a strong minded person, able to accept the fact that her father died before she could see him again, and that they wouldn't have being reconciled even if she had come back home sooner.
The whole story was an easy read, clever and fun, with mysteries and revelations (some easy and exciting to guess, some others just exciting), a lovely bunch of various characters, and a pinch of romance!
I'm looking forward reading the sequences (it will be a quartet) and to buy this first book of the series in its paper version, which will soon be available: the cover is so beautiful!
(I thank Netgalley and Camberion Press for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review)
March 31, 2022
This book, a romantic fantasy, was too twee, precious, and cutesy for my taste. It just wasn’t my cuppa.
I didn’t give it a lower rating because the author has potential and she is able to put a coherent story together. There’s strong world building. Plus the ending was vaguely satisfying.
But the story dragged, and was predictable. Also, the author is trying so hard to be scintillating and original. That gets annoying really fast.
The characters weren’t that engaging either (except for Wyn, who’s been Stariel’s very capable butler for years). Or rather, the characters could have been interesting, but with most of them we barely get beyond the surface. They’re portrayed in a one dimensional way as types: macho, outdoorsy men of the land; overbearing, sour, critical, middle aged aunt; innocent ingenue cousin; scholarly brother; flamboyant theater people; beautiful fae tricksters, etc.
I found the main character, Hetta, shallow, vain, and annoying. She enjoys bragging about the great looking men falling all over her. She’s supposed to be very intelligent, but I didn’t see much evidence of that. The other characters are interesting, but one dimensional.
I’ve been reading a couple of masters of fantasy, Robin Hobb and Juliet Marillier. Both of these ladies tell great stories and go deep into their characters. So of course a book like this seems like silly fluff in comparison.
Finty Williams’ audio reading didn’t help matters. She sounded like an English school girl reading a primer. I found her reading style distracting and irritating.
I don’t think I’ll be reading the rest of this series. A younger audience might enjoy this more than I did. Or an audience that loves romance (as opposed to fantasy which includes some loving relationships).
I didn’t give it a lower rating because the author has potential and she is able to put a coherent story together. There’s strong world building. Plus the ending was vaguely satisfying.
But the story dragged, and was predictable. Also, the author is trying so hard to be scintillating and original. That gets annoying really fast.
The characters weren’t that engaging either (except for Wyn, who’s been Stariel’s very capable butler for years). Or rather, the characters could have been interesting, but with most of them we barely get beyond the surface. They’re portrayed in a one dimensional way as types: macho, outdoorsy men of the land; overbearing, sour, critical, middle aged aunt; innocent ingenue cousin; scholarly brother; flamboyant theater people; beautiful fae tricksters, etc.
I found the main character, Hetta, shallow, vain, and annoying. She enjoys bragging about the great looking men falling all over her. She’s supposed to be very intelligent, but I didn’t see much evidence of that. The other characters are interesting, but one dimensional.
I’ve been reading a couple of masters of fantasy, Robin Hobb and Juliet Marillier. Both of these ladies tell great stories and go deep into their characters. So of course a book like this seems like silly fluff in comparison.
Finty Williams’ audio reading didn’t help matters. She sounded like an English school girl reading a primer. I found her reading style distracting and irritating.
I don’t think I’ll be reading the rest of this series. A younger audience might enjoy this more than I did. Or an audience that loves romance (as opposed to fantasy which includes some loving relationships).
December 1, 2024
Why is no one talking about this cozy fantasy? It needs so much more hype!!!
This was such a fun read. I loved the characters, the magic, the mystery - everything! Over the years, I've realized that I don't typically like books surrounding fae, so I was a bit apprehensive going into this, but I ended up loving it.
I think this might be because, although there are fae in this story, they weren't necessarily the (only) focus of this book. There were other elements that captured my interest - like the magic and mystery of Stariel itself. For this reason, I'm kind of worried that I might not like the rest of the series as much when fae become a more prominent part of the story.
I'd definitely recommend to anyone looking for a gaslamp cozy fantasy with a slow-burn romance! Honestly, I think that if you liked Half a Soul, you might like this too!
This was such a fun read. I loved the characters, the magic, the mystery - everything! Over the years, I've realized that I don't typically like books surrounding fae, so I was a bit apprehensive going into this, but I ended up loving it.
I think this might be because, although there are fae in this story, they weren't necessarily the (only) focus of this book. There were other elements that captured my interest - like the magic and mystery of Stariel itself. For this reason, I'm kind of worried that I might not like the rest of the series as much when fae become a more prominent part of the story.
I'd definitely recommend to anyone looking for a gaslamp cozy fantasy with a slow-burn romance! Honestly, I think that if you liked Half a Soul, you might like this too!
February 17, 2022
This book is great fun, a historical fantasy with an early 20th century-inspired setting, featuring a large and complicated family, a pleasantly mature protagonist, some fae nonsense and a sweet bit of romance. An excellent choice for light or comfort reading, but with enough depth and personality to the characters and thought put into the story and world that it never feels dumb.
Hetta Valstar is the 20-something black sheep of her family, landed gentry who have a strong connection to their rural estate. Six years ago, Hetta ran away to study magic, and has wound up with a fun career as an illusionist in the theater, though disowned by her father. She returns home for his funeral and the estate’s magical choosing of the next heir, but is caught up in some family drama, fae incursions and local intrigue.
I liked Hetta a lot; there’s a combination of confidence and playfulness about her that makes her fun to read about. It’s refreshing to meet a grown-up heroine who’s used to living independently and supporting herself, and who can handle interpersonal and sexual situations with aplomb. I also enjoyed the drama of her large, complicated family: the endearingly nerdy older brother with a secret, who definitely doesn’t want to be lord; the rather patronizing man’s-man cousin who definitely does; the anxious, eager-to-please young stepmother; the teenage half-siblings who seem like good people but nevertheless, as teens, make some reckless and questionable choices; the eccentric, unflappable grandmother; and a bevy of extended family. It’s nice to read a fantasy that doesn’t have life-and-death stakes (generally) and focuses instead on people relating to one another. I also found both of the love interests teased for Hetta to be genuinely attractive, and the primary romance enjoyable.
The setting is also fun: it seems closely based on Edwardian England (with the estate being in Yorkshire, perhaps), the early days of cars and telephones, with modernity rubbing up against traditional attitudes. And I enjoyed the plot a lot. While it’s often predictable, my experience was greatly enhanced by having been spoiled in advance that Marius would become lord. (Spoilers that will not enhance your experience: ) It’s a fun story that pulled me right along. And there are other small elements I also appreciated, like the realistic portrayal of a head injury, in a genre that all too often plays these off as safe.
Overall, while this isn’t great literature or particularly groundbreaking fantasy, I had a ton of fun reading it, to the point of being pleased by how much the ending leaves open for future volumes. However, the primary plot arc does come to a close, so you can certainly stop here. It’s the first self-published novel I’ve read and very professionally presented, with a smooth, error-free writing style, so that I would not have guessed that to be the case had I not known in advance. While I’m not sure later books will retain the same charm, I’ve already moved on to the next!
Hetta Valstar is the 20-something black sheep of her family, landed gentry who have a strong connection to their rural estate. Six years ago, Hetta ran away to study magic, and has wound up with a fun career as an illusionist in the theater, though disowned by her father. She returns home for his funeral and the estate’s magical choosing of the next heir, but is caught up in some family drama, fae incursions and local intrigue.
I liked Hetta a lot; there’s a combination of confidence and playfulness about her that makes her fun to read about. It’s refreshing to meet a grown-up heroine who’s used to living independently and supporting herself, and who can handle interpersonal and sexual situations with aplomb. I also enjoyed the drama of her large, complicated family: the endearingly nerdy older brother with a secret, who definitely doesn’t want to be lord; the rather patronizing man’s-man cousin who definitely does; the anxious, eager-to-please young stepmother; the teenage half-siblings who seem like good people but nevertheless, as teens, make some reckless and questionable choices; the eccentric, unflappable grandmother; and a bevy of extended family. It’s nice to read a fantasy that doesn’t have life-and-death stakes (generally) and focuses instead on people relating to one another. I also found both of the love interests teased for Hetta to be genuinely attractive, and the primary romance enjoyable.
The setting is also fun: it seems closely based on Edwardian England (with the estate being in Yorkshire, perhaps), the early days of cars and telephones, with modernity rubbing up against traditional attitudes. And I enjoyed the plot a lot. While it’s often predictable, my experience was greatly enhanced by having been spoiled in advance that Marius would become lord. (Spoilers that will not enhance your experience: ) It’s a fun story that pulled me right along. And there are other small elements I also appreciated, like the realistic portrayal of a head injury, in a genre that all too often plays these off as safe.
Overall, while this isn’t great literature or particularly groundbreaking fantasy, I had a ton of fun reading it, to the point of being pleased by how much the ending leaves open for future volumes. However, the primary plot arc does come to a close, so you can certainly stop here. It’s the first self-published novel I’ve read and very professionally presented, with a smooth, error-free writing style, so that I would not have guessed that to be the case had I not known in advance. While I’m not sure later books will retain the same charm, I’ve already moved on to the next!
October 15, 2021
I deeply enjoyed The Lord of Stariel the first time I read it, and it holds up wonderfully on a second read-through! I only realised after finishing the book for the second time that I had never finished a review for it, and I thought that was a terrible shame, because I DO heartily recommend it. It's a book with all of my favourite elements: an enjoyable female main character, a bit of magical intrigue, a solid romantic interest, and—most importantly—faeries.
The premise is already fantastic from the opening: actress and illusionist Henrietta Valstar's father has died, and she is obliged to return home to his lands to be part of a ritual which will choose the next Lord of Stariel. No one really expects that Hetta will be chosen as the next lord, and she herself isn't terribly interested in the position. But something goes strange with the ritual, and Hetta does get chosen. Meanwhile, the fae that secretly live on the other side of Stariel are ready to take advantage of its new, inexperienced lord.
I enjoyed Hetta as a main character quite a bit. She's clever and no-nonsense, and she doesn't put on airs. She openly enjoys flirting and doesn't agonise over propriety, though she hasn't made a crusade out of the idea. Wyn, the butler who's been serving at Stariel since he was very young, was another character who stood out prominently. He struck me as particularly squishy and adorable, and I have a terrible weakness for that character type.
I think there may be something slightly off with the pacing near the end of the book, but it was perfectly dismissible, given that I kept eagerly reading anyway. Lord of Stariel was a hugely entertaining read, and I'm excited to finally open up the second in the series.
The premise is already fantastic from the opening: actress and illusionist Henrietta Valstar's father has died, and she is obliged to return home to his lands to be part of a ritual which will choose the next Lord of Stariel. No one really expects that Hetta will be chosen as the next lord, and she herself isn't terribly interested in the position. But something goes strange with the ritual, and Hetta does get chosen. Meanwhile, the fae that secretly live on the other side of Stariel are ready to take advantage of its new, inexperienced lord.
I enjoyed Hetta as a main character quite a bit. She's clever and no-nonsense, and she doesn't put on airs. She openly enjoys flirting and doesn't agonise over propriety, though she hasn't made a crusade out of the idea. Wyn, the butler who's been serving at Stariel since he was very young, was another character who stood out prominently. He struck me as particularly squishy and adorable, and I have a terrible weakness for that character type.
I think there may be something slightly off with the pacing near the end of the book, but it was perfectly dismissible, given that I kept eagerly reading anyway. Lord of Stariel was a hugely entertaining read, and I'm excited to finally open up the second in the series.
December 24, 2022
5 stars. I hate myself for leaving this review for so long. But I just didn't feel like I had the time to do it justice right after I read it, and now...I'm afraid I've put it off for too long.
This series is AMAZING - Thank you Elizabeth for this rec. It was SO.DAMN.GOOD. Each book kept me engaged and wanting more.
I feel like there's so much I could say about this series, but I'm almost overwhelmed with my thoughts. This series is in part historical romance - but the historical elements have been modified to fit the fantasy elements. So don't expect any accuracy - because it's not really the same world.
This is a series that explores the misogyny of the past but doesn't actually have misogynistic undertones (AT ALL). In fact, I would say that the series is extremely pro-feminism. The female characters are for the most part all strong and willful, and the male characters are somewhat secondary to them. The hero is much more passive and beta than the heroine, but he's super sweet and a really wonderful partner to the heroine. There's also a lot of diversity - in race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and culture. I loved how the author managed to be so extremely inclusive... nothing old fashioned about a book that is set in a historical era.
Overall, I HIGHLY recommend this series to those of you who enjoy fantasy romance, value diversity, and enjoy a good role reversal as much as I do.
Safe; non-virginal heroine who had great sex in the past 😁, virgin hero 🎉, no OW drama, some OM drama with a man who pursues the heroine (but it's almost all exclusively in book 1). Heroine has been gone from home for many years, where the hero works as a servant. She returns upon the death of her father. It does turn out that the hero has been casting a deterrent against sexual attention, which is why the heroine and other females never noticed his allure. She does go on a few dates with the OM, and kisses him, but it doesn't progress further. Hero and heroine have been friends for years, and exchanged letters while she was gone, but heroine doesn't notice him in a romantic way until they are reunited at the beginning of the series. Once they get together, they are both all-in. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
This series is AMAZING - Thank you Elizabeth for this rec. It was SO.DAMN.GOOD. Each book kept me engaged and wanting more.
I feel like there's so much I could say about this series, but I'm almost overwhelmed with my thoughts. This series is in part historical romance - but the historical elements have been modified to fit the fantasy elements. So don't expect any accuracy - because it's not really the same world.
This is a series that explores the misogyny of the past but doesn't actually have misogynistic undertones (AT ALL). In fact, I would say that the series is extremely pro-feminism. The female characters are for the most part all strong and willful, and the male characters are somewhat secondary to them. The hero is much more passive and beta than the heroine, but he's super sweet and a really wonderful partner to the heroine. There's also a lot of diversity - in race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and culture. I loved how the author managed to be so extremely inclusive... nothing old fashioned about a book that is set in a historical era.
Overall, I HIGHLY recommend this series to those of you who enjoy fantasy romance, value diversity, and enjoy a good role reversal as much as I do.
Safe; non-virginal heroine who had great sex in the past 😁, virgin hero 🎉, no OW drama, some OM drama with a man who pursues the heroine (but it's almost all exclusively in book 1). Heroine has been gone from home for many years, where the hero works as a servant. She returns upon the death of her father. It does turn out that the hero has been casting a deterrent against sexual attention, which is why the heroine and other females never noticed his allure. She does go on a few dates with the OM, and kisses him, but it doesn't progress further. Hero and heroine have been friends for years, and exchanged letters while she was gone, but heroine doesn't notice him in a romantic way until they are reunited at the beginning of the series. Once they get together, they are both all-in. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
February 21, 2022
This book is like the anti-YA novel in almost all ways.
The characters have emotions but are mature. They age appropriately and are in their twenties instead of being trapped forever at the age of seventeen like most YA novel characters. Also, while mentioning teenagers, there is condemnation for the former Lord of Stariel for having married a seventeen-year-old after his first wife died (without condemning the poor under-aged girl herself). So that was nice to see.
And these male characters in their 20s are allowed to cry? Characters are allowed to wear glasses without being labeled as unattractive? A step-mother who isn't a horrible, wicked witch but is just...the girl the MCs father married after their mother died? Step-siblings with sibling-like relationships? Who actually call one another brothers and sisters? Banter?
The prose is....I mean I am jealous of it, it's so good at portraying action, comedy, and emotion concisely:
"Gregory appeared at breakfast looking wan but cheerful and promptly had a mild spat with his sister Alexandra over the allocation of blueberry muffins."
As I appreciate humor being thrown into the prose, I enjoyed the writing in this one.
I also ended up liking Hetta and Wyn together a lot. They had good chemistry both and friends and "maybe something more...?"s, which was nice. No awkward bumbling teenage girls falling over their feet for a brooding guy. Wyn's nice! He's a good friend! I also appreciated that both "love interests" for Hetta were people she already knew and was familiar with, and weren't random hot strangers.
It felt way more natural and comfortable.
I also felt like Hetta was a good character in terms of her "hussiness". I was a little worried at first since I'm usually very annoyed by "modernized" female characters because 99.9% of the time, "spurring conventions" just means "I have a lot of sex and therefore am just as good as a man!" but Hetta was actually her own person and had a non-annoying character. She also didn't do things "just to be contrary". She stayed her own person but, if she knew something would annoy or bother someone, she didn't do it on purpose.
This was a nice change for once. When everyone else is described as "old fashioned" to the point that Hetta rolls her eyes, it's in terms of them not letting women wear pants and thinking women don't have, ah...romantic impulses, only men do. So for Hetta to kick that stuff to the curb?
Right on, girl.
[Note: upon reading further installments, the author DOES push harder and harder into the modern-secular concept of letting women sleep "the same as men" around instead of condemning men for being allowed to get away with it, but that does not change my opinion of the portrayal in this installment.]
Hetta also isn't the center of the universe. Granted, it should be obvious from just reading the book description what's going to happen. But when Hetta returns home, she is neither completely shut out and outcasted from her family, nor is she the most important person to breathe in Stariel. That was a nice reprieve.
She is also practical and thinks before she acts.
I really like her relationships with her siblings as well. It felt natural, and each was their own person and character without being made to do stupid, unreasonable things just for the sake of drama. For example, even after he's not named lord of Stariel, Marius doesn't get mad at his sister and in fact apologizes to her rather dramatically that he wasn't chosen since he knows she didn't want to be.
My lad.
My good good lad. With infinite wisdom. Which reminds me....:
"Greg [17] is too young to tell love from infatuation."
Yes. Thank you.
Finally, a book that recognizes teenagers for being under-aged.
The whole book ambles in a relaxed manner, but it focuses more on relationships than plot necessarily. I mean there is a main conflict and that main conflict is solved by the end, but the main action sequence is not the same as the conflict resolution portion of the book. This is very much a "setting things up" type of story and I'm okay with that. It's a very calming read, weirdly, and you get the feeling that the side characters actually matter.
Also also: I swear this is the first book I've ever read where an LGBTQ character is treated as an actual person with development and not shoe-horned into a ridiculous romance just for the sake of pushing representation a step further. I honestly don't think people understand that gay people are...still...human.
Whoa. Amazing. You CAN make characters without their sexuality being 90% of the character and the other 10% being: "I need them to be this way for the plot".
Basically, you should read this book if you want to actually be able care about characters for once. Is there a certain level of fantasy-esque cheesiness to it? Yes. Like literally ALL fantasy books. BUT:
The romance is actually sweet.
You worry when the characters get hurt
Actions mean something and have consequences
I actually WANT to read the next book.
So....there's that.
I really can't talk too much about it without giving off major spoilers and since there's not that much to spoil (because there really aren't any twists or anything) it would mean basically just telling the whole plot of the story. But, overall: good family and sibling and character dynamics. Huzzah. Someone knows family is important still!
The only things I didn't like are:
a) In general, I do like to have more plot to my novels
b) It did feel as if there were some pacing issues on occasion, especially toward the end.
c) In addition to b, it occasionally felt as if there were scenes missing or that could have helped explain more.
The characters have emotions but are mature. They age appropriately and are in their twenties instead of being trapped forever at the age of seventeen like most YA novel characters. Also, while mentioning teenagers, there is condemnation for the former Lord of Stariel for having married a seventeen-year-old after his first wife died (without condemning the poor under-aged girl herself). So that was nice to see.
And these male characters in their 20s are allowed to cry? Characters are allowed to wear glasses without being labeled as unattractive? A step-mother who isn't a horrible, wicked witch but is just...the girl the MCs father married after their mother died? Step-siblings with sibling-like relationships? Who actually call one another brothers and sisters? Banter?
The prose is....I mean I am jealous of it, it's so good at portraying action, comedy, and emotion concisely:
"Gregory appeared at breakfast looking wan but cheerful and promptly had a mild spat with his sister Alexandra over the allocation of blueberry muffins."
As I appreciate humor being thrown into the prose, I enjoyed the writing in this one.
I also ended up liking Hetta and Wyn together a lot. They had good chemistry both and friends and "maybe something more...?"s, which was nice. No awkward bumbling teenage girls falling over their feet for a brooding guy. Wyn's nice! He's a good friend! I also appreciated that both "love interests" for Hetta were people she already knew and was familiar with, and weren't random hot strangers.
It felt way more natural and comfortable.
I also felt like Hetta was a good character in terms of her "hussiness". I was a little worried at first since I'm usually very annoyed by "modernized" female characters because 99.9% of the time, "spurring conventions" just means "I have a lot of sex and therefore am just as good as a man!" but Hetta was actually her own person and had a non-annoying character. She also didn't do things "just to be contrary". She stayed her own person but, if she knew something would annoy or bother someone, she didn't do it on purpose.
This was a nice change for once. When everyone else is described as "old fashioned" to the point that Hetta rolls her eyes, it's in terms of them not letting women wear pants and thinking women don't have, ah...romantic impulses, only men do. So for Hetta to kick that stuff to the curb?
Right on, girl.
[Note: upon reading further installments, the author DOES push harder and harder into the modern-secular concept of letting women sleep "the same as men" around instead of condemning men for being allowed to get away with it, but that does not change my opinion of the portrayal in this installment.]
Hetta also isn't the center of the universe. Granted, it should be obvious from just reading the book description what's going to happen. But when Hetta returns home, she is neither completely shut out and outcasted from her family, nor is she the most important person to breathe in Stariel. That was a nice reprieve.
She is also practical and thinks before she acts.
I really like her relationships with her siblings as well. It felt natural, and each was their own person and character without being made to do stupid, unreasonable things just for the sake of drama. For example, even after he's not named lord of Stariel, Marius doesn't get mad at his sister and in fact apologizes to her rather dramatically that he wasn't chosen since he knows she didn't want to be.
My lad.
My good good lad. With infinite wisdom. Which reminds me....:
"Greg [17] is too young to tell love from infatuation."
Yes. Thank you.
Finally, a book that recognizes teenagers for being under-aged.
The whole book ambles in a relaxed manner, but it focuses more on relationships than plot necessarily. I mean there is a main conflict and that main conflict is solved by the end, but the main action sequence is not the same as the conflict resolution portion of the book. This is very much a "setting things up" type of story and I'm okay with that. It's a very calming read, weirdly, and you get the feeling that the side characters actually matter.
Also also: I swear this is the first book I've ever read where an LGBTQ character is treated as an actual person with development and not shoe-horned into a ridiculous romance just for the sake of pushing representation a step further. I honestly don't think people understand that gay people are...still...human.
Whoa. Amazing. You CAN make characters without their sexuality being 90% of the character and the other 10% being: "I need them to be this way for the plot".
Basically, you should read this book if you want to actually be able care about characters for once. Is there a certain level of fantasy-esque cheesiness to it? Yes. Like literally ALL fantasy books. BUT:
The romance is actually sweet.
You worry when the characters get hurt
Actions mean something and have consequences
I actually WANT to read the next book.
So....there's that.
I really can't talk too much about it without giving off major spoilers and since there's not that much to spoil (because there really aren't any twists or anything) it would mean basically just telling the whole plot of the story. But, overall: good family and sibling and character dynamics. Huzzah. Someone knows family is important still!
The only things I didn't like are:
a) In general, I do like to have more plot to my novels
b) It did feel as if there were some pacing issues on occasion, especially toward the end.
c) In addition to b, it occasionally felt as if there were scenes missing or that could have helped explain more.
February 4, 2021
Fantastic gaslamp fantasy
Loved this book. It's incredibly charming and beautifully written. If you enjoy romantic fantasy or fantasy romance, along with a strong-minded heroine and a fae prince, check this book out.
Loved this book. It's incredibly charming and beautifully written. If you enjoy romantic fantasy or fantasy romance, along with a strong-minded heroine and a fae prince, check this book out.
![Profile Image for laurel [the suspected bibliophile].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645808644i%2F7494844._UX200_CR0%2C6%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 28, 2018
Hetta returns home after a six-year exile following the death of her father. She returns not in rags and shambles, but in triumph—eager to show her face, demonstrate her talents and then go back to the city after the estate of Stariel chooses its next Lord.
But danger lurks in the fairy realm, and it turns out that the Lord of Stariel were once more than just impoverished backwater lordlings.
I have a soft spot for scary fairies and secondary-English-type fantasy worlds, particularly ones with trains, electricity and the beginnings of modernity that don't have a single fucking mention of corsets in sight.
Lemme repeat that for the kids in the back: NO. CORSETS.
While a lot of the plot could have been wrapped up rather quickly, I was fascinated by the detailings of Stariel and the world that it resided in. I also enjoyed that it very much is a fantasy of manners, with the feel of Newt's Emerald, All the Paths of Shadow, The Paper Magician, with the sense of isolation and magic like Iron Shoes.
The plot itself wasn't particularly twisty or turny (again, the writing, setting and Hetta are the keys), but there were a couple of twists that I didn't really see coming, so that was an added excitement.
The writing is enchanting, and Hetta herself is a fully developed character. Maybe I have a weak spot here, because I feel for characters who return home after a long absence from family and their previous life due to a particularly toxic family member. That moment Hetta has, when she realizes that nothing her family can do or say can impact her because she has her own life and means of support was so breathtakingly poignant.
I truly hope that more people pick up this wonderful book and stay tuned for the rest of the Stariel quartet, because the ending certainly leaves room for more development!
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review
But danger lurks in the fairy realm, and it turns out that the Lord of Stariel were once more than just impoverished backwater lordlings.
I have a soft spot for scary fairies and secondary-English-type fantasy worlds, particularly ones with trains, electricity and the beginnings of modernity that don't have a single fucking mention of corsets in sight.
Lemme repeat that for the kids in the back: NO. CORSETS.
While a lot of the plot could have been wrapped up rather quickly, I was fascinated by the detailings of Stariel and the world that it resided in. I also enjoyed that it very much is a fantasy of manners, with the feel of Newt's Emerald, All the Paths of Shadow, The Paper Magician, with the sense of isolation and magic like Iron Shoes.
The plot itself wasn't particularly twisty or turny (again, the writing, setting and Hetta are the keys), but there were a couple of twists that I didn't really see coming, so that was an added excitement.
The writing is enchanting, and Hetta herself is a fully developed character. Maybe I have a weak spot here, because I feel for characters who return home after a long absence from family and their previous life due to a particularly toxic family member. That moment Hetta has, when she realizes that nothing her family can do or say can impact her because she has her own life and means of support was so breathtakingly poignant.
I truly hope that more people pick up this wonderful book and stay tuned for the rest of the Stariel quartet, because the ending certainly leaves room for more development!
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review
November 19, 2018
I tried with this book. I really did.
Fae? Magic? Wealthy estates? Um, yes, please! After a somewhat interesting -- if over-dramatic-- prologue, this book was...not good. When I genuinely try to think of redeeming qualities, I honestly cannot think of any. That sounds harsh, I know! I think, at the end of the day, this book is a mixture of "it's probably not for me," and "this book is just objectively BAD." I'm going to explain why. So bear with me, because this might be a long-ish review.
I confess, I'd not heard of this book before. But I was scrolling through Netgalley, and the cover and premise sounded intriguing -- so request, please! And I was thrilled when it was accepted. Like I mentioned above, the prologue seemed interesting (words I never thought I'd say when it comes to prologues...): Fae, magical gates, mentions of magic... But after that, Fae are BARELY mentioned until the halfway point in the book.
One of the biggest issues with this book was pacing. Pacing, pacing, pacing! It's important, people! This book -- for the most part -- was BORING. There was nothing to push it forward, especially in the first half of the book. Yes, you read that right. HALF. The plot picked up ... slightly ... from that point, but barely. It really did drag, to the point where I just had to skim to get through it. That's never a good sign.
And if you don't have good pacing, then you at least need good writing or engrossing the characters, neither of which this book had. Hetta, the main character, was achingly bland, as was the rest of the cast of characters who I've already forgotten.
The world was also disappointing and barely developed. This book suffered from a case of Unnecessarily Capatalized Words to make it feel like more of a Fantasy Book™️, instead of real world development. For example: North, South, Gate, Choosing, and so on. There was also a few times where the phrase "gods!" was used as an exclamation, but WHAT gods? Unless I missed it, there was nothing mentioned, leading only to just confusing. And boredom. I can't get swept up in the world that author has tried to create when I don't even understand it. This leads me to my next point -- where/when was this book supposed to be set? A fantasy world? Steampunk? The dialogue seemed old-fashioned, there was magic (which I didn't understand how it worked, either) but there were also things mentioned such as electricity, telephones, guns, and trains. So...? Huh? Some kind of alt-reality Earth? I have no clue, because NOTHING WAS EXPLAINED. EVER. I felt like this would've worked much, much better as a historical fantasy.
I wasn't quite sure I understood the audience for this book, either. Adult, I think, considering the character's ages, and even then I'm not entirely sure how old the protagonist was? But it felt very young at points and the tone/mood didn't seem to fit the story.
This was just...not good.
OVERALL VERDICT: borrow, don't buy, and even then, I can't recommend.
Fae? Magic? Wealthy estates? Um, yes, please! After a somewhat interesting -- if over-dramatic-- prologue, this book was...not good. When I genuinely try to think of redeeming qualities, I honestly cannot think of any. That sounds harsh, I know! I think, at the end of the day, this book is a mixture of "it's probably not for me," and "this book is just objectively BAD." I'm going to explain why. So bear with me, because this might be a long-ish review.
I confess, I'd not heard of this book before. But I was scrolling through Netgalley, and the cover and premise sounded intriguing -- so request, please! And I was thrilled when it was accepted. Like I mentioned above, the prologue seemed interesting (words I never thought I'd say when it comes to prologues...): Fae, magical gates, mentions of magic... But after that, Fae are BARELY mentioned until the halfway point in the book.
One of the biggest issues with this book was pacing. Pacing, pacing, pacing! It's important, people! This book -- for the most part -- was BORING. There was nothing to push it forward, especially in the first half of the book. Yes, you read that right. HALF. The plot picked up ... slightly ... from that point, but barely. It really did drag, to the point where I just had to skim to get through it. That's never a good sign.
And if you don't have good pacing, then you at least need good writing or engrossing the characters, neither of which this book had. Hetta, the main character, was achingly bland, as was the rest of the cast of characters who I've already forgotten.
The world was also disappointing and barely developed. This book suffered from a case of Unnecessarily Capatalized Words to make it feel like more of a Fantasy Book™️, instead of real world development. For example: North, South, Gate, Choosing, and so on. There was also a few times where the phrase "gods!" was used as an exclamation, but WHAT gods? Unless I missed it, there was nothing mentioned, leading only to just confusing. And boredom. I can't get swept up in the world that author has tried to create when I don't even understand it. This leads me to my next point -- where/when was this book supposed to be set? A fantasy world? Steampunk? The dialogue seemed old-fashioned, there was magic (which I didn't understand how it worked, either) but there were also things mentioned such as electricity, telephones, guns, and trains. So...? Huh? Some kind of alt-reality Earth? I have no clue, because NOTHING WAS EXPLAINED. EVER. I felt like this would've worked much, much better as a historical fantasy.
I wasn't quite sure I understood the audience for this book, either. Adult, I think, considering the character's ages, and even then I'm not entirely sure how old the protagonist was? But it felt very young at points and the tone/mood didn't seem to fit the story.
This was just...not good.
OVERALL VERDICT: borrow, don't buy, and even then, I can't recommend.
November 9, 2018
A non-exhaustive list of why I really liked The Lord of Stariel:
- it captures both the excitement of growing cities but also the warmth of a more rural home
- elements of both Austenesque (is that a word?) fiction and modern urban fantasy, but it doesn't read as derivative
- a dry, humorous voice that underscores a self-aware heroine who doesn't take herself overly seriously
- a pleasant, respectful step-mother/stepdaughter relationship, people who can understand they may not ever be close but they can still behave like kind, decent human beings to each other.
- a protagonist who enjoys flirting and (it is implied) casual sex and is unashamed of it without it being A Thing
- people who make bad decisions without being Bad People
- the confidence that it's okay if estrangements never result in reconciliation
- a character who basically forced me into liking him despite the fact I completely saw through how he was there to be likeable. Outrageous!
- a protagonist who, when faced with responsibility and uncertainty about where to take her life has feelings but also manages to own her choices without angsting about it for 300 pages.
- a system of succession I'd never come across before and really liked; I want to see more of the implications of it.
(Disclaimer: I know the author but purchased this with my own money and these are my honest thoughts, I swear.)
- it captures both the excitement of growing cities but also the warmth of a more rural home
- elements of both Austenesque (is that a word?) fiction and modern urban fantasy, but it doesn't read as derivative
- a dry, humorous voice that underscores a self-aware heroine who doesn't take herself overly seriously
- a pleasant, respectful step-mother/stepdaughter relationship, people who can understand they may not ever be close but they can still behave like kind, decent human beings to each other.
- a protagonist who enjoys flirting and (it is implied) casual sex and is unashamed of it without it being A Thing
- people who make bad decisions without being Bad People
- the confidence that it's okay if estrangements never result in reconciliation
- a character who basically forced me into liking him despite the fact I completely saw through how he was there to be likeable. Outrageous!
- a protagonist who, when faced with responsibility and uncertainty about where to take her life has feelings but also manages to own her choices without angsting about it for 300 pages.
- a system of succession I'd never come across before and really liked; I want to see more of the implications of it.
(Disclaimer: I know the author but purchased this with my own money and these are my honest thoughts, I swear.)
August 10, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
The Lord of Stariel came recommended by a couple of GR friends and I do see why. This is exactly what the blurb says, cozy, fantasy romance with an emphasis on magic and family drama. I did not love it the way that my friends did unfortunately, but I do think that the aspects that were uneven for me, will be smoother as the series progresses. I also think that I'll feel more invested as the series goes because so much was introduced in this story. The world-building is very strong and detailed, which I loved. Written in third person, single POV of h's. No ow drama, small sort of om drama in that h is initially pursued by a neighbor but it's not serious for her and only a couple of kisses. I've been told H is a virgin (not mentioned in this book) and h is experienced.
One aspect I struggled with was that the pace is slow, which adds to the cozy feel, but felt like inaction to me at times. I also liked Hetta (h) but I wasn't in love with her. I appreciated that she was unique in her family and pursued a life outside of how she'd been raised, plus she can do magic and that's always cool. She also stood up for herself and poked at the misogyny that others just accepted, also always a win. But she did come across as self-absorbed at times (honestly a few characters did) and I wished that she was more empathetic in certain moments. Wyn (H) was an intriguing character and he's been friends with Hetta since they were younger, but she's only now feeling attraction and romantic interest in him. He's focused on supporting her and doing his duties, but then secrets are revealed and it gets more complex. Wyn is not a dominant type of hero and he does give a reason eventually why he doesn't pursue Hetta that makes sense, but I didn't feel like much happened romance-wise between them in this book. He's still probably my favorite character.
Lots of supporting characters in this book are important beyond just Hetta's family, who do seem to overwhelm at times because there's so dang many of them. I like big groups for fantasy novels because I feel like it adds to the depth of the world building when done right and I do think that's the case here. Although I could see some readers getting lost in all the names. Hetta's brother, her cousin, her neighbor, her aunt, some cousins, all have important roles. In addition to some mysterious characters.
Plot-wise, the idea of a land having magical properties and being connected to a family is pretty darn cool. Add in some dangers involving the fae and fae politics, plus drama related to the family and connection to the land, there's a lot here. Most of this book felt like introduction and setting up for the books to come. But we do see magic and there are villains. The ending is a HFN with a plot line resolved, but much more in flux. No cliffhanger in the sense that no one is in mortal peril at the time the book ends. I do think some of my friends will enjoy the slower pace, the coziness, and the magical elements.
The Lord of Stariel came recommended by a couple of GR friends and I do see why. This is exactly what the blurb says, cozy, fantasy romance with an emphasis on magic and family drama. I did not love it the way that my friends did unfortunately, but I do think that the aspects that were uneven for me, will be smoother as the series progresses. I also think that I'll feel more invested as the series goes because so much was introduced in this story. The world-building is very strong and detailed, which I loved. Written in third person, single POV of h's. No ow drama, small sort of om drama in that h is initially pursued by a neighbor but it's not serious for her and only a couple of kisses. I've been told H is a virgin (not mentioned in this book) and h is experienced.
One aspect I struggled with was that the pace is slow, which adds to the cozy feel, but felt like inaction to me at times. I also liked Hetta (h) but I wasn't in love with her. I appreciated that she was unique in her family and pursued a life outside of how she'd been raised, plus she can do magic and that's always cool. She also stood up for herself and poked at the misogyny that others just accepted, also always a win. But she did come across as self-absorbed at times (honestly a few characters did) and I wished that she was more empathetic in certain moments. Wyn (H) was an intriguing character and he's been friends with Hetta since they were younger, but she's only now feeling attraction and romantic interest in him. He's focused on supporting her and doing his duties, but then secrets are revealed and it gets more complex. Wyn is not a dominant type of hero and he does give a reason eventually why he doesn't pursue Hetta that makes sense, but I didn't feel like much happened romance-wise between them in this book. He's still probably my favorite character.
Lots of supporting characters in this book are important beyond just Hetta's family, who do seem to overwhelm at times because there's so dang many of them. I like big groups for fantasy novels because I feel like it adds to the depth of the world building when done right and I do think that's the case here. Although I could see some readers getting lost in all the names. Hetta's brother, her cousin, her neighbor, her aunt, some cousins, all have important roles. In addition to some mysterious characters.
Plot-wise, the idea of a land having magical properties and being connected to a family is pretty darn cool. Add in some dangers involving the fae and fae politics, plus drama related to the family and connection to the land, there's a lot here. Most of this book felt like introduction and setting up for the books to come. But we do see magic and there are villains. The ending is a HFN with a plot line resolved, but much more in flux. No cliffhanger in the sense that no one is in mortal peril at the time the book ends. I do think some of my friends will enjoy the slower pace, the coziness, and the magical elements.
October 24, 2018
Three and a half
The characters here are grown ups but it does read as if it's aimed at slightly younger readers as there's not really any violence or indeed sexual relationships . If I'm brutal I struggled initially as I didn't buy into the newly returned heroine and her odd fascination for those guys she left behind. I do hasten to add that once the new Lord is apparently chosen this story got a lot more interesting. It felt as if the author had got into his or her stride and settled down to flesh out the characters, the world and get the readers trying to guess how it could end. It can stand alone in some ways but it's left in such a way that I feel anyone who enjoys this will be anxious to find out what happens next.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
The characters here are grown ups but it does read as if it's aimed at slightly younger readers as there's not really any violence or indeed sexual relationships . If I'm brutal I struggled initially as I didn't buy into the newly returned heroine and her odd fascination for those guys she left behind. I do hasten to add that once the new Lord is apparently chosen this story got a lot more interesting. It felt as if the author had got into his or her stride and settled down to flesh out the characters, the world and get the readers trying to guess how it could end. It can stand alone in some ways but it's left in such a way that I feel anyone who enjoys this will be anxious to find out what happens next.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
March 27, 2020
A Delightful Read
Rating: 4 1/2
Henrietta/Hetta Valstar is independent, loyal and courageous. I enjoyed her fierce temper which was triggered by a strong sense of right and wrong. She understands everyone she is close to except Wyn who has secrets. But she is respectful and responsible. Most of all, I loved her direct manner of speaking which reminds me of myself. This book resonates with clean premise storytelling and lyrical descriptions. The themes of family, inheritance and tradition made this a fabulous story. Add a touch of intrigue with fascinating characters which brought it all together. I got a kick out of the mix of science, tech and magic. Looking for to more!
Rating: 4 1/2
Henrietta/Hetta Valstar is independent, loyal and courageous. I enjoyed her fierce temper which was triggered by a strong sense of right and wrong. She understands everyone she is close to except Wyn who has secrets. But she is respectful and responsible. Most of all, I loved her direct manner of speaking which reminds me of myself. This book resonates with clean premise storytelling and lyrical descriptions. The themes of family, inheritance and tradition made this a fabulous story. Add a touch of intrigue with fascinating characters which brought it all together. I got a kick out of the mix of science, tech and magic. Looking for to more!
January 3, 2022
What a delightful read to kick off 2022!
The Lord of Stariel is a charming and atmospheric gaslamp fantasy with a dash of romance. It's exactly what I was in the mood for during my cozy holiday between Christmas and New Year.
Hetta is the eldest daughter of the Lord of Stariel and is called back to her home estate when her father dies. All of her relatives must be there to take part in the Choosing, when the magical Star Stone picks the next heir. Hetta is a bit of a black sheep and pretty much everyone knows Stariel will go to her eldest brother or cousin. But things go a bit awry and Hetta has to work with her family to set things right.
I loved this book. It had the perfect amount of magic and whimsy. It was not too heavy or too intense which I appreciated. I love books with high stakes, but sometimes it's nice to know that the end of the world isn't on the line or there is some great evil that must be stopped. That's to say, if you're looking for a more epic fantasy, this may not be for you. It's not a tale full of twists either and plays out fairly linearly. I enjoyed it immensely anyway as I don't need the crazy twists and "subverted expectations" to really enjoy a book such as this one. But I wanted to mention it as I could see it being a potential point of disappointment to some readers.
The setting in particular further contributed to the comforting nature of the book. The Stariel estate was suitably pastoral and the upcoming winter tidings gave an appropriately festive flair, along with the more rural natural aspects of the setting.
The main relationships in this book are family relationships, especially the ones between Hetta and her siblings and cousins. I really enjoyed how there was not one big villain in the story. The conflicts were more about flawed people doing bad things without being bad people. I'm a bit sick of stories that feel as though they must make their villains those of the mustache-twirling variety. One where they can't just have a bout of selfishness, no. They must kick puppies as well. I enjoyed the more leveled take A.J. Lancaster took in this story where most everyone could be redeemable.
Hetta was a particularly agreeable character and I loved her practicality. She was certainly more on the progressive side but didn't take herself so seriously that she felt out of place. I really appreciate characters such as her and I like that the feminism in this book was more nuanced and "realistic" instead of an author making some unhinged caricature who's only there to scream at men and be totally ridiculous.
There was a sweet romance here as well, but it was definitely more of a subplot. I read this for a "Happily Ever After" Fantasy Book Club, and while the romance was very enjoyable, this book to me is more fantasy than romance (not a bad thing!) Who knows how further books will develop though.
The fae also make an appearance in this one, and the book portrayed them in my favorite way: alien, nymph-like, inhuman, and a little uncanny. It all contributed even more to the nature-forward, fairy tale feeling of the book.
I'm really looking forward to continuing this series and I'm happy that I've gotten my 2022 reading off to a stellar start!
The Lord of Stariel is a charming and atmospheric gaslamp fantasy with a dash of romance. It's exactly what I was in the mood for during my cozy holiday between Christmas and New Year.
Hetta is the eldest daughter of the Lord of Stariel and is called back to her home estate when her father dies. All of her relatives must be there to take part in the Choosing, when the magical Star Stone picks the next heir. Hetta is a bit of a black sheep and pretty much everyone knows Stariel will go to her eldest brother or cousin. But things go a bit awry and Hetta has to work with her family to set things right.
I loved this book. It had the perfect amount of magic and whimsy. It was not too heavy or too intense which I appreciated. I love books with high stakes, but sometimes it's nice to know that the end of the world isn't on the line or there is some great evil that must be stopped. That's to say, if you're looking for a more epic fantasy, this may not be for you. It's not a tale full of twists either and plays out fairly linearly. I enjoyed it immensely anyway as I don't need the crazy twists and "subverted expectations" to really enjoy a book such as this one. But I wanted to mention it as I could see it being a potential point of disappointment to some readers.
The setting in particular further contributed to the comforting nature of the book. The Stariel estate was suitably pastoral and the upcoming winter tidings gave an appropriately festive flair, along with the more rural natural aspects of the setting.
The main relationships in this book are family relationships, especially the ones between Hetta and her siblings and cousins. I really enjoyed how there was not one big villain in the story. The conflicts were more about flawed people doing bad things without being bad people. I'm a bit sick of stories that feel as though they must make their villains those of the mustache-twirling variety. One where they can't just have a bout of selfishness, no. They must kick puppies as well. I enjoyed the more leveled take A.J. Lancaster took in this story where most everyone could be redeemable.
Hetta was a particularly agreeable character and I loved her practicality. She was certainly more on the progressive side but didn't take herself so seriously that she felt out of place. I really appreciate characters such as her and I like that the feminism in this book was more nuanced and "realistic" instead of an author making some unhinged caricature who's only there to scream at men and be totally ridiculous.
There was a sweet romance here as well, but it was definitely more of a subplot. I read this for a "Happily Ever After" Fantasy Book Club, and while the romance was very enjoyable, this book to me is more fantasy than romance (not a bad thing!) Who knows how further books will develop though.
The fae also make an appearance in this one, and the book portrayed them in my favorite way: alien, nymph-like, inhuman, and a little uncanny. It all contributed even more to the nature-forward, fairy tale feeling of the book.
I'm really looking forward to continuing this series and I'm happy that I've gotten my 2022 reading off to a stellar start!
June 12, 2022
Now THIS I was so into that I downloaded the rest of the books before I was done with this one. It's just . . . nice? Kind of lightweight fantasy with great characters and a romance I was into.
February 27, 2022
I read this as it was an #SPFBO semi finalist and I hoped it would be a fun ride. It certainly has some fun elements of far shenanigans and women standing up for themselves in a fantasy of manners setting, but it’s also a romance, something I often find doesn’t always work for me.
This is the story of Hetta Valstar who is kind of the black sheep of her family. She left them years ago as she wanted to practise her illusion-magic but her father strongly disapproved. She knows she is the odd one out and really doesn’t have much incentive to return until her father dies and there is a choosing ceremony for the new Lord of Stariel. Everyone knows it’s likely between Hetta’s older brother or the seemingly more qualified cousin Jack….
Hetta’s return is changed significantly after the shocks of the ceremony and the story gets more twisty and turny after that. We follow her as she tried to unlock Stariel’s secrets, discovers the fae, and learns of the true state of the estate.
I like Fantasy of manners style stories a lot and this one has some fun moments that kept me reading but it also didn’t feel to me as though it was super different or memorable. I had a good time with it but the chances of me continuing the series are lower as it was a good standalone story and I’m happy leaving it there. 3*s
This is the story of Hetta Valstar who is kind of the black sheep of her family. She left them years ago as she wanted to practise her illusion-magic but her father strongly disapproved. She knows she is the odd one out and really doesn’t have much incentive to return until her father dies and there is a choosing ceremony for the new Lord of Stariel. Everyone knows it’s likely between Hetta’s older brother or the seemingly more qualified cousin Jack….
Hetta’s return is changed significantly after the shocks of the ceremony and the story gets more twisty and turny after that. We follow her as she tried to unlock Stariel’s secrets, discovers the fae, and learns of the true state of the estate.
I like Fantasy of manners style stories a lot and this one has some fun moments that kept me reading but it also didn’t feel to me as though it was super different or memorable. I had a good time with it but the chances of me continuing the series are lower as it was a good standalone story and I’m happy leaving it there. 3*s
November 13, 2022
I tell people a lot that I read books based on their one-star reviews. I think people think I'm trying to be funny or quirky, but I'm not. A lot of times a one-star review, if well written, is what makes me want to read a book. I tend to think, "Hm. This person clearly doesn't like the book. But, based on the reasons they didn't like the book, I sure think I would."
That's the case here. The cover is lovely, but I was worried it would be predictable, bland, over-dramatic, that sort of thing. Then I read an absolutely scathing one-star review which criticized the pacing, the plot, the writing, the world-building, and the characters. But, based on the complaints, I though it sounded awesome. So I read it, and I loved it.
It is a delicately paced book. If you're used to much more melodramatic, over-wrought, blood-and-thunder (trying so hard not to reference ACoTaR here) fare, this is going to seem bland. But it's not! It's lovely. The characters are fantastic! The families are realistic! People do bad things for good reasons and not because they're just "the bad guys." People care about each other and are complicated! The heroine is conflicted, but doesn't spend dozens of pages moping about it! She solves the problems! She is sensible and unique and I love her to pieces.
That's the case here. The cover is lovely, but I was worried it would be predictable, bland, over-dramatic, that sort of thing. Then I read an absolutely scathing one-star review which criticized the pacing, the plot, the writing, the world-building, and the characters. But, based on the complaints, I though it sounded awesome. So I read it, and I loved it.
It is a delicately paced book. If you're used to much more melodramatic, over-wrought, blood-and-thunder (trying so hard not to reference ACoTaR here) fare, this is going to seem bland. But it's not! It's lovely. The characters are fantastic! The families are realistic! People do bad things for good reasons and not because they're just "the bad guys." People care about each other and are complicated! The heroine is conflicted, but doesn't spend dozens of pages moping about it! She solves the problems! She is sensible and unique and I love her to pieces.
December 25, 2023
Edit: December 2023 As a holiday gift the author has listed this for free on Amazon. Can’t encourage people to try this series more. Cozy, low stakes fae fantasy. Great read and even greater series ❤️
This was pretty typical of a first book in a series. A toe-dip into the world, magic system, characters and dynamics.
I enjoyed Hetta as a heroine and found her to be a strong and confident character with her own agency and I was invested in her journey.
I finished this book and found myself excited to continue on with the rest of the series and devoured them all in short order.
This was pretty typical of a first book in a series. A toe-dip into the world, magic system, characters and dynamics.
I enjoyed Hetta as a heroine and found her to be a strong and confident character with her own agency and I was invested in her journey.
I finished this book and found myself excited to continue on with the rest of the series and devoured them all in short order.
March 30, 2023
This review was originally posted on Queen's Book Asylum with my choice of song.
The Lord of Stariel got on my radar back in January, when everyone went crazy with that 12 books recommended by 12 friends challenge. It was not recommended to me – I think I need better friends – but that didn’t stop me from picking it up. As I was just obsessed with Downton Abbey, binging the whole series plus the available movie, and was in need of lighter books, The Lord of Stariel seemed like something that would be totally up my alley. Despite the fact, that I’m not really a big fan of romance books in general. And boy I was right. It was exactly what I needed, so much so, that I not only listened to the first book but immediately got the second too after finishing.
The Lord of Stariel is set in an imaginary kingdom, which is not unlike England in my mind, where magic is not uncommon. Working as an illusionist when you are the daughter of a lord, however, is. That still didn’t stop Hetta Valstar from following her dreams and going against his father’s will. She doesn’t return to the family home until her father passes away and Stariel needs a new lord to be chosen. The Valstar family although wealthy, are also unusual as they have a bond with their land, or as they call it, land-sense. This definitely comes in handy when one needs to find a relative, or fight off supernatural attackers. While Hetta comes to terms with her past, she also faces a series of mysteries, revelations, and a little bit of heart-thumping along the way.
From the moment I started listening, The Lord of Stariel sucked me in. I was intrigued by the Valstar family and the mystery kept me interested all the way through. I give extra points because some things even I didn’t see coming and that’s always a pleasant surprise. The romance is handled really well, so I can’t complain about that either. Actually, I really can’t complain about anything apart from it being too short. And that we didn’t get more from Hetta’s grandmother. I have a feeling that the old lady would be a delightful character if she got more spotlight.
It’s not what I’d call a fast-paced book, but that’s actually a good thing. We have enough time to savor the atmosphere, to get to know the characters and how their relationships work. The characters are well fleshed out, and all of them are relatable, if not always likable. *cough* Aunt Sibyl *cough*. I especially liked Hetta and Wyn. Hetta took to the challenges very well and she is no damsel in distress kinda heroine. She is strong-willed, decisive, and has a sharp wit. And she is not afraid to take up leadership when it’s needed.
The Lord of Stariel mostly focuses on the Valstar family and their current problems but we also get a peek at what’s coming. The Fae make their appearance and we get enough background about their current politics to build upon later in the series. It being the first book of a series, it has to lay down some foundations and it does that brilliantly while keeping the reader thoroughly entertained with a mystery. And a bit of romance on the side.
I don’t know if it’s because I was really engrossed by Downton Abbey, but I couldn’t stop thinking The Lord of Stariel is what would happen if Downton Abbey was set in a Fantasy world. I also need to mention the narrator of the audiobook, Finty Williams, who did an absolutely stellar job bringing this book to life. And I’m sure I’ll pay more attention to A. J. Lancaster in the future. Until then, on to the next book!
The Lord of Stariel got on my radar back in January, when everyone went crazy with that 12 books recommended by 12 friends challenge. It was not recommended to me – I think I need better friends – but that didn’t stop me from picking it up. As I was just obsessed with Downton Abbey, binging the whole series plus the available movie, and was in need of lighter books, The Lord of Stariel seemed like something that would be totally up my alley. Despite the fact, that I’m not really a big fan of romance books in general. And boy I was right. It was exactly what I needed, so much so, that I not only listened to the first book but immediately got the second too after finishing.
The Lord of Stariel is set in an imaginary kingdom, which is not unlike England in my mind, where magic is not uncommon. Working as an illusionist when you are the daughter of a lord, however, is. That still didn’t stop Hetta Valstar from following her dreams and going against his father’s will. She doesn’t return to the family home until her father passes away and Stariel needs a new lord to be chosen. The Valstar family although wealthy, are also unusual as they have a bond with their land, or as they call it, land-sense. This definitely comes in handy when one needs to find a relative, or fight off supernatural attackers. While Hetta comes to terms with her past, she also faces a series of mysteries, revelations, and a little bit of heart-thumping along the way.
From the moment I started listening, The Lord of Stariel sucked me in. I was intrigued by the Valstar family and the mystery kept me interested all the way through. I give extra points because some things even I didn’t see coming and that’s always a pleasant surprise. The romance is handled really well, so I can’t complain about that either. Actually, I really can’t complain about anything apart from it being too short. And that we didn’t get more from Hetta’s grandmother. I have a feeling that the old lady would be a delightful character if she got more spotlight.
It’s not what I’d call a fast-paced book, but that’s actually a good thing. We have enough time to savor the atmosphere, to get to know the characters and how their relationships work. The characters are well fleshed out, and all of them are relatable, if not always likable. *cough* Aunt Sibyl *cough*. I especially liked Hetta and Wyn. Hetta took to the challenges very well and she is no damsel in distress kinda heroine. She is strong-willed, decisive, and has a sharp wit. And she is not afraid to take up leadership when it’s needed.
The Lord of Stariel mostly focuses on the Valstar family and their current problems but we also get a peek at what’s coming. The Fae make their appearance and we get enough background about their current politics to build upon later in the series. It being the first book of a series, it has to lay down some foundations and it does that brilliantly while keeping the reader thoroughly entertained with a mystery. And a bit of romance on the side.
I don’t know if it’s because I was really engrossed by Downton Abbey, but I couldn’t stop thinking The Lord of Stariel is what would happen if Downton Abbey was set in a Fantasy world. I also need to mention the narrator of the audiobook, Finty Williams, who did an absolutely stellar job bringing this book to life. And I’m sure I’ll pay more attention to A. J. Lancaster in the future. Until then, on to the next book!
February 6, 2021
This is nice as nice as a cup of a tea and a scone. A kind-of-edwardian with faerie fantasy novel kind of like Sharon Shinn meets Mary Stewart, our independent illusionist is called to the family estate by the death of her father and the land must choose its new lord. You see where this is going right? And it is very nice all round, kind of cozy, and very easy to follow. I can quibble a bit that the plot feels a bit thin sometimes and the characters can also feel a bit "thin", only there when required (Alexandra deserved more probably...) and going along with the plot. But these are just quibbles. It was really very nice.
December 11, 2020
I didn't hate this book, but I was disappointed and bored by it. Which is a shame, because the premise was so interesting, I liked most of the characters, and the wider world intrigued me... But then nothing happened!
Which is weird for me to say, because I've read other stories where nothing much happens, but they were designed to be a day in the life of a fantasy character. I definitely felt like this story was aiming for something, but it didn't quite hit it for me.
Part of that was that after an interesting set-up at the beginning the initial tension is resolved too quickly. At the same time the story shifts gears away from a magical homecoming and mystical mystery to something much closer to a stock fantasy-romance set-up, and the pace slows way down.
The author does try to reinsert some of the mystery and uncertainty later on, but it felt forced to me and was very clearly taking a backseat to the character dynamics. I never really felt like the new "problems" were a believable outcome or a viable threat, so I didn't really care about any of it.
Maybe that wouldn't have been so bad if I was invested in whatever was going on with all the characters, but I wasn't grabbed there either. The brother was irritating from the start so I only cared in so much as the main character cared. The main character was distracted by settling in and being embroiled in a proto love triangle thing I detested from the first moment it appeared. Then the friend and cousin kept so tight lipped about their issue(s) that the book was almost over by the time anyone got around to them.
Maybe going in to this expecting a slow burn fantasy-romance with a dash of action would lead to less disappointment. It's definitely not a badly written book, but it also wasn't what I thought I was getting from the synopsis.
Which is weird for me to say, because I've read other stories where nothing much happens, but they were designed to be a day in the life of a fantasy character. I definitely felt like this story was aiming for something, but it didn't quite hit it for me.
Part of that was that after an interesting set-up at the beginning the initial tension is resolved too quickly. At the same time the story shifts gears away from a magical homecoming and mystical mystery to something much closer to a stock fantasy-romance set-up, and the pace slows way down.
The author does try to reinsert some of the mystery and uncertainty later on, but it felt forced to me and was very clearly taking a backseat to the character dynamics. I never really felt like the new "problems" were a believable outcome or a viable threat, so I didn't really care about any of it.
Maybe that wouldn't have been so bad if I was invested in whatever was going on with all the characters, but I wasn't grabbed there either. The brother was irritating from the start so I only cared in so much as the main character cared. The main character was distracted by settling in and being embroiled in a proto love triangle thing I detested from the first moment it appeared. Then the friend and cousin kept so tight lipped about their issue(s) that the book was almost over by the time anyone got around to them.
Maybe going in to this expecting a slow burn fantasy-romance with a dash of action would lead to less disappointment. It's definitely not a badly written book, but it also wasn't what I thought I was getting from the synopsis.
December 16, 2023
4⭐️
Soooo…. Apparently I‘m into cozy fantasy? Truly nothing unhinged happens and I still enjoyed it?! That‘s such a shocker. Then again I live for all things hygge.
Anyway, picture Downton Abbey but with fae. I really liked Hetta, and Wyn is such a cinnamon roll 🫶🏼 . I‘m so excited to read the rest of the series!
Soooo…. Apparently I‘m into cozy fantasy? Truly nothing unhinged happens and I still enjoyed it?! That‘s such a shocker. Then again I live for all things hygge.
Anyway, picture Downton Abbey but with fae. I really liked Hetta, and Wyn is such a cinnamon roll 🫶🏼 . I‘m so excited to read the rest of the series!
August 14, 2021
4.5 this was a perfect delight for the mood I was in. There are times when I would have been less enchanted but this was just what the doctor ordered. I liked the magic set up and the connection to the land. I liked the promise of a lot more world building to come in the land of faerie.
January 15, 2022
The only reason I’m not rating this 5⭐️ is because I found it somewhat predictable and, for a book that is supposed to be fantasy romance, doesn’t have quite as much romance as I’d like.
I would recommend this if you like:
- Jane Austen/historical romance in a fantasy setting
- low/no steam romance
- traditional fae
- fantasy with a little bit of technology or magic mixed with technology
- childhood friends to lovers
- family drama/politics
I really loved Hetta’s character. Even though she’s quite different from me—making her hard to relate to at times—I felt she was a well-developed character with reasonable and realistic flaws. I felt all the other characters were well thought-out as well and seemed like-like to me, including the villain.
I would recommend this if you like:
- Jane Austen/historical romance in a fantasy setting
- low/no steam romance
- traditional fae
- fantasy with a little bit of technology or magic mixed with technology
- childhood friends to lovers
- family drama/politics
I really loved Hetta’s character. Even though she’s quite different from me—making her hard to relate to at times—I felt she was a well-developed character with reasonable and realistic flaws. I felt all the other characters were well thought-out as well and seemed like-like to me, including the villain.
June 15, 2023
review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2023/0...
The Lord of Stariel is an interesting cozy fantasy that revolves around Hetta Valstar who returns home, Sterial Estate, for her father’s funeral and choosing ceremony for the next Lord of the estate. She never wanted to be the lord nor expected with her elder brother, whom her father didn’t like and her father’s favorite nephew whom everyone thought would be the next lord but when she was chosen as lord her life turns upside down.
She expected to return to her modern life as a master of illusion in Noth but now she is stuck with accounts of the estate, family drama, the mystery of who rigged the ceremony, and the even bigger problem of the fae returning to the Mortal Realm and only the Lord of Stariel can keep the estate safe.
This is more a mix of fantasy, romance and cozy mystery with themes and layers of feminism, secrets, family custom, and social norms. Writing is straightforward, perky, and cozy which sets the tone of the story that is told from Hetta’s perspective.
The setting and time period is the most interesting part and so is the concept of Stariel Estate as a magical land that is connected to the family of Valstar. The chosen Lord gets the strongest sense of the land and also enhances his/her magic. The Estate’s borders are the border between the mortal and fae realm that Lord of the Estate can oversee and control.
We get most of the mortal world setting information in the first few chapters but we get the magic of the estate and how only Stariel has the magic and not its neighboring estate or village is more explained in the second half as the secrets are revealed and there are lots of secrets that most family members are keeping.
Family dynamic and drama is my favorite part. I enjoyed getting to know all Valstars along with Hetta. I had to make a list of them at first but once I was through the introduction part, I could easily tell who was who without getting confused.
Romance is friends to lovers trope and we see the crackling spark between them but for most of the story, they kept dodging their emotions and each other as Wyn had a secret too. It was no surprise he was a fae and his position in the household also makes him hesitate to turn friendship into a relationship. It isn’t exactly forbidden but also doesn��t make it proper for the era of the setting. By the end of the book we finally had the anticipated kiss between Wyn and Hetta. I can’t wait to see what trouble their relationship and estate is going to face in the next books.
Why 3 stars-
All mysteries and twists and turns were predictable. It was easy to guess things way before they were revealed. Even the big reveal, in the end, wasn’t surprising. I felt it was hinted quite clearly throughout the book which made the climax and the big reveal rather uninteresting and also anticlimactic.
I also feel the love triangle was unnecessary as it was clear Hetta liked Wyn. It kind of took away moments between Hetta and Wyn.
There isn’t much character development as this is just the first book and I’m fine with it but at the same time, I didn’t feel much for any characters. I think I know them all on a surface level, I could understand them but there wasn’t much emotional depth.
Overall, The Lord of Stariel is interesting, dramatic, and fast-paced cozy fantasy with amazing setting and concept.
The Lord of Stariel is an interesting cozy fantasy that revolves around Hetta Valstar who returns home, Sterial Estate, for her father’s funeral and choosing ceremony for the next Lord of the estate. She never wanted to be the lord nor expected with her elder brother, whom her father didn’t like and her father’s favorite nephew whom everyone thought would be the next lord but when she was chosen as lord her life turns upside down.
She expected to return to her modern life as a master of illusion in Noth but now she is stuck with accounts of the estate, family drama, the mystery of who rigged the ceremony, and the even bigger problem of the fae returning to the Mortal Realm and only the Lord of Stariel can keep the estate safe.
This is more a mix of fantasy, romance and cozy mystery with themes and layers of feminism, secrets, family custom, and social norms. Writing is straightforward, perky, and cozy which sets the tone of the story that is told from Hetta’s perspective.
The setting and time period is the most interesting part and so is the concept of Stariel Estate as a magical land that is connected to the family of Valstar. The chosen Lord gets the strongest sense of the land and also enhances his/her magic. The Estate’s borders are the border between the mortal and fae realm that Lord of the Estate can oversee and control.
We get most of the mortal world setting information in the first few chapters but we get the magic of the estate and how only Stariel has the magic and not its neighboring estate or village is more explained in the second half as the secrets are revealed and there are lots of secrets that most family members are keeping.
Family dynamic and drama is my favorite part. I enjoyed getting to know all Valstars along with Hetta. I had to make a list of them at first but once I was through the introduction part, I could easily tell who was who without getting confused.
Romance is friends to lovers trope and we see the crackling spark between them but for most of the story, they kept dodging their emotions and each other as Wyn had a secret too. It was no surprise he was a fae and his position in the household also makes him hesitate to turn friendship into a relationship. It isn’t exactly forbidden but also doesn��t make it proper for the era of the setting. By the end of the book we finally had the anticipated kiss between Wyn and Hetta. I can’t wait to see what trouble their relationship and estate is going to face in the next books.
Why 3 stars-
All mysteries and twists and turns were predictable. It was easy to guess things way before they were revealed. Even the big reveal, in the end, wasn’t surprising. I felt it was hinted quite clearly throughout the book which made the climax and the big reveal rather uninteresting and also anticlimactic.
I also feel the love triangle was unnecessary as it was clear Hetta liked Wyn. It kind of took away moments between Hetta and Wyn.
There isn’t much character development as this is just the first book and I’m fine with it but at the same time, I didn’t feel much for any characters. I think I know them all on a surface level, I could understand them but there wasn’t much emotional depth.
Overall, The Lord of Stariel is interesting, dramatic, and fast-paced cozy fantasy with amazing setting and concept.
August 19, 2020
The Lord of Stariel was such an unexpected joy to stumble across! This whimsical, light-hearted story hit on so many of my favourite things. Firstly, it's a gaslamp fantasy, with a turn-of-the-century setting mixing magic and modern technology. Secondly it features a practical, sensible heroine, a magical house, some fun Chosen One bullshit, a friends-to-lovers romance. And finally: FAIRY!! PRINCES!! AND FAIRY COURT INTRIGUE! Just sprinkled in, as far as I can see, for the fun of it.
The author of this book is clearly having a grand old time, and I enjoyed every moment of the journey as well.
Lord of Stariel follows Hetta, the disgraced daughter of the late Lord of Stariel, who ran away to join a theatre troupe as a magical illusionist. Magic is seen as something of a unsuitable profession for a lady, so Hetta has made her peace with being cut off from her family, instead choosing to hang out with her decadent theatre friends in the Capital. When her father dies, she comes back to the Stariel estate one last time out of duty - to participate in the magical ritual which determines the heir to the estate. After all, Hetta is almost certain it won't be her.
Spoilers: it absolutely is her.
However, when Hetta, to her own horror, gets picked, she quickly discovers that the ritual was actually a set up. The magical artefact which normally determines the next heir isn't working, and it has in fact been replaced by a fake. While taking on the mansion she has accidentally inherited, Hetta must try and work out where the real artefact is, so the true heir of Stariel can be revealed and she can (hopefully) return to her normal life.
The mystery of this book is interesting, but I have to admit I worked out the culprit about a third of the way through. However, the character work, and the wider fantasy plot that begins to develop - surrounding the fairy courts, and their connections to both the Stariel Estate and Hetta's uncomfortably attractive childhood friend and now butler, Wyn - was enough to keep me reading.
I didn't really mind that the mystery itself was pretty simple, because I'm excited to see how the wider plots and character relationships develop across the trilogy.
Read the full review @ Howl's Moving Library!
The author of this book is clearly having a grand old time, and I enjoyed every moment of the journey as well.
Lord of Stariel follows Hetta, the disgraced daughter of the late Lord of Stariel, who ran away to join a theatre troupe as a magical illusionist. Magic is seen as something of a unsuitable profession for a lady, so Hetta has made her peace with being cut off from her family, instead choosing to hang out with her decadent theatre friends in the Capital. When her father dies, she comes back to the Stariel estate one last time out of duty - to participate in the magical ritual which determines the heir to the estate. After all, Hetta is almost certain it won't be her.
Spoilers: it absolutely is her.
However, when Hetta, to her own horror, gets picked, she quickly discovers that the ritual was actually a set up. The magical artefact which normally determines the next heir isn't working, and it has in fact been replaced by a fake. While taking on the mansion she has accidentally inherited, Hetta must try and work out where the real artefact is, so the true heir of Stariel can be revealed and she can (hopefully) return to her normal life.
The mystery of this book is interesting, but I have to admit I worked out the culprit about a third of the way through. However, the character work, and the wider fantasy plot that begins to develop - surrounding the fairy courts, and their connections to both the Stariel Estate and Hetta's uncomfortably attractive childhood friend and now butler, Wyn - was enough to keep me reading.
I didn't really mind that the mystery itself was pretty simple, because I'm excited to see how the wider plots and character relationships develop across the trilogy.
Read the full review @ Howl's Moving Library!
November 6, 2025
Update Nov 2025
I just re-read this novel and enjoyed even more the second time. I'm upping its rating to 4 stars - it is too good to have less than that.
3.5 stars
A charming, low-key fantasy. Fae and magic in a world that sounds and feels like England on the cusp of the 20th century, even though all the geographic names are different. I enjoyed reading this novel.
The protagonist, Hetta, has a lot on her plate: her intractable family, her newly acquired Lord status, the old estate falling down around her ears, and the fae suddenly turning real and unfriendly, while she always thought they belonged in fairy tales.
Her brother has a problem he is reluctant to reveal. Her cousin holds a grudge. Her aunt is snipping at Hetta every chance she gets. And her butler harbors one too many secrets. And to top it all off, the family heirloom, a Star Stone, was stolen from its revered place in the vault.
Hetta deals with all her troubles with as much composure as she can master. I liked her. I enjoyed reading about her attempts to do her best for everyone and for the estate. I was tickled by her complicated relationships with two different men.
Several subplots intertwine in this novel, and despite the overall slow pace of the story, it all worked for me, except the mystery subplot. The characters don't seem to be trying hard to solve that mystery. Eventually, they found the thief, but it was almost an accident. I like more assertiveness and ingenuity in my fictional heroes.
Anyway, I already bought the next book in the series.
I just re-read this novel and enjoyed even more the second time. I'm upping its rating to 4 stars - it is too good to have less than that.
3.5 stars
A charming, low-key fantasy. Fae and magic in a world that sounds and feels like England on the cusp of the 20th century, even though all the geographic names are different. I enjoyed reading this novel.
The protagonist, Hetta, has a lot on her plate: her intractable family, her newly acquired Lord status, the old estate falling down around her ears, and the fae suddenly turning real and unfriendly, while she always thought they belonged in fairy tales.
Her brother has a problem he is reluctant to reveal. Her cousin holds a grudge. Her aunt is snipping at Hetta every chance she gets. And her butler harbors one too many secrets. And to top it all off, the family heirloom, a Star Stone, was stolen from its revered place in the vault.
Hetta deals with all her troubles with as much composure as she can master. I liked her. I enjoyed reading about her attempts to do her best for everyone and for the estate. I was tickled by her complicated relationships with two different men.
Several subplots intertwine in this novel, and despite the overall slow pace of the story, it all worked for me, except the mystery subplot. The characters don't seem to be trying hard to solve that mystery. Eventually, they found the thief, but it was almost an accident. I like more assertiveness and ingenuity in my fictional heroes.
Anyway, I already bought the next book in the series.
November 1, 2018
This book is beautiful. It's well written, engaging, and exciting. I felt the character development was great, and the characters were mostly likable.
This is the kind of book that I don't like to do a huge overview on, because I don't want to give too much away. I will sum the premise up shortly.: Henrietta (Hetta) comes home after a long absence for her father's funeral. Home is a magical estate that chooses it's own ruler. Hetta is positive that she won't be the next ruler, but rather her cousin should be next in line. But there is something else lurking around the fringes of the estate, ready to attack the new ruler.
This book is a beautiful mix of romance, mystery, intrigue, and magic. I can't recommend it enough. This is a 5 star book for me and I don't give a 5 star rating lightly. 5 stars for me means that I will read this book over and over, I will buy it on any format I can get, and I will recommend it to ANYONE who will listen. Good job to this author. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for her!
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
This is the kind of book that I don't like to do a huge overview on, because I don't want to give too much away. I will sum the premise up shortly.: Henrietta (Hetta) comes home after a long absence for her father's funeral. Home is a magical estate that chooses it's own ruler. Hetta is positive that she won't be the next ruler, but rather her cousin should be next in line. But there is something else lurking around the fringes of the estate, ready to attack the new ruler.
This book is a beautiful mix of romance, mystery, intrigue, and magic. I can't recommend it enough. This is a 5 star book for me and I don't give a 5 star rating lightly. 5 stars for me means that I will read this book over and over, I will buy it on any format I can get, and I will recommend it to ANYONE who will listen. Good job to this author. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for her!
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
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