Lemma: The star at the beginning MFC POV Novella: Book 0.5 in The Jade Pandora Saga

by A.D. Stevens

When the call to protect the country of your birth comes, would you be able to answer?

Lemma is the Current keeper of the star of Sciran.

Driven crazy by the day-to-day life of being the heir to the throne

and the constant formality of it all.

She would rather be out fighting for her people.

Still, she is always aware that her next day may be

the day. That she is summoned to fight as a general of Rysand

against creatures and beasts tainted by Rycore.

An ancient war threatens to restart. The Twin Gods

the cause of it all from times long past

114 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2025

Reviews

[Laura Squirrel · Rating 5 out of 5]

To start, I want to thank Andy for allowing me the chance to ARC read this title. I was so excited to receive the email to be asked officially, since I was such a fan of Two Kings One Throne.

In this novella, we learn more about who Lemma is and what her life was like before she had met anyone in Two Kings One Throne. At just 13 chapters long, there is so much information you are given about Lemma and her personality.

So, I have so many things to say about how much I loved this. I loved how the descriptions made me feel like I was right there with Lemma, going through her adventures and misadventures together. The timeline of events are reasonably paced and doesn't feel rushed at all. There wasn't a moment I found difficult to read that made me want to stop. I read it in a night because I just needed to keep reading.

From the characters we met in Lemmas story, to the creatures she faces, it had me engrossed. I could picture every description in my head. There was a great balance between comedic humour, grievences and serious moments. It was just captivating.

There were definitely parts of the book that caught me off guard and had me shocked and surprised.

The novella has hit the nail on the head for how it has told Lemmas story before Two Kings One Throne. As expected, she has the same personality, if not better. In Two Kings One Throne, she wasn't my most favourite character, but since reading this, she has become a close second.

If you want a quick read with a very strong FMC, then this is the book to read to introduce you to The Jade Pandora Saga. I would recommend this to any reader that enjoys high fantasy.

[Chris Revill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really love this book so much that the character lemma has really opened my eyes to being strong and independent. Love the story and lemma has really got to me in a good way on a personal level and has even given me the confidence and strength in the aspect of being able to change my own life for the better.

Andy as an author is one of the best authors to come across and this is the only book that’s ever touched me in life and given me hope of a better life for myself.

[Millie Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Jade Pandora: lemma the star in the beginning. Is a story that covers the brief history of the FMC in The Jade Pandora: Two Kings One Throne.
Lemma a Princess warrior who does not like all of the fuss and royalties that comes with being a royal from her servants and community but instead treats others as equals.
This is a lovely short read that can be read before or after the first book in the series as it meets.

[William Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrator did a fantastic job at bringing this story to life. It was cool to see some of the events that unfolded before the start of the first book!

[Emily Leggat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went straight in to this novella after reading The Jade Pandora, Two Kings, One Throne ☺️

I really enjoyed learning more about the main female characters (Lemma) history, she is such a relatable character with her personality and attributes. There were some moments in this that really made me giggle and I wouldn’t expect anything less from Lemma 😂

Overall this novella was a really lovely read, very informative despite only being 13 chapters long & it had a really steady pace that kept you engaged throughout. Yet again this has me needing to read the next chapter as I was so hooked on the storyline. ☺️

5 Stars From Me ⭐️

[Kiran · Rating 4 out of 5]

So glad I gave into my FOMO and abandoned my TBR to read this book. It has put me in such a good mood!

Lemma is absolutely hilarious and her obsession with death had me fully vibing with her. Her personality shines through the whole novella and her one liners are brilliant. It is so easy to read and follow, and the men in this story were top tier. They left me wanting more.

Plot wise, it felt really cosy and wholesome. I personally would have liked a bit more pain and suffering for the FMC, but that is just my preference. It is genuinely wholesome and will help so many people find a little joy in this messy world. Would absolutely recommend!

[Nicolle Sexton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to ARC read this and omg!! I demolished it in one sitting. I loved every bit.

I was laughing in the first chapter. Lemma getting Khrom right in the wheat sacks had me laughing out loud.

I loved in the underground where Ny stabbed a guy in the arse.. I never knew you could kill a man by ramming something in their arse.. it made me laugh but also go ouch at the description before, slicing both the femoral arteries.

I loved the friendship that Lemma and Ny built and how it developed in the royal baths, then for Ny to become so important to Faith later on.

I felt like we got to see more of Lemma's personality and how she didn't fawn over the formalities and actually preferred to build friendships with her subjects, showing them that she is still a person same as they are.

I loved this and I highly recommend it. I will be re reading soon.

[chapters in moonlight · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the author of this book on TikTok, after reading his work I don’t understand his self doubt in if his books are good because this is hands down the best novella I’ve ever read
It follows Lemma the FMC in the main book as a prequel to the first book of the series two kings one throne,
Lemma is a princess who doesn’t like formality’s of the throne which leads to her being very sarcastic and relatable as a character.
She is also a bad ass warrior who saves a village from being destroyed by a massive bird like creature
I would highly recommend everyone to read lemmas story before going into the main series
I would also like to congratulate the author Andy for publishing 2 books and i cant wait to read more about Apprite in The Jade Pandora series

[Nathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lemma the star at the beginning is an amazing backstory for such an amazing character. Delving deeper into who Lemma truly is. It captivating and utterly intriguing, every page and every chapter flows so smoothly with the different acts showcasing how truly amazing she is. This is not a damsel in distress story, no, this is a story of a truly badass woman who’s will stop at nothing to help her friends and family, while trying to find her own true path.

It is definitely worth a read,

A job well done once again to the author Andy Stevens, I look forward to book 2

[Brodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book I could not put it down it is a great short read so perfect for new readers and it’s a great adventure with badass characters

[Raven is zesty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andy, Wow. This shirt novella had me finishing it in less than 4 hours, wow! It’s full of twists and turns, and so many amazing mythical creatures. I must say, your wording is excellent, brought me back to Victorian era. It’s like a movie playing in my head.
I can’t wait to read the main book, and see how the man stopped the star! Well done! Keep writing !!!

[Sophie King · Rating 5 out of 5]

The FMC is powerful and a force to be reckoned with from start to finish. Her wit and satire is very enjoyable and her goofy side very relatable.
have not yet read the first novel of the Jade Pandora saga, but this Novella has made me want to leap straight in to it! I'm excited to see where Lemma ends up, and what sorts of mayhem she can manage to get herself in to.

[Stephen Bowden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was immensely enjoyable read where love and death combine. What happens to Lemma next?..I need to know.

[J.J. Foraday · Rating 4 out of 5]

salt weasel

Will use the phrases wheat sack and salt weasel all the time now! This is a prequel to Jade Pandora, focusing on Lemma my favourite character. She is looking for a thief. The battle with the bird was a standout for me, and I love how the ending links to the start of the next book. How did he stop my star?

[Travis Doe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an entry into the writing style of A.D. Stevens, and I'll say, it definitely didn't disappoint! From moments of genuine humour and entertainment, fantastic character development and showcasing Lemma's character, through to a story that engaged me and kept my attention.

I especially enjoyed the unique language, with different era/setting appropriate insults/profanities. Wheat sacks, Mud muncher, etc.

I read this in an evening, and couldn't put it down. Very much looking forward to reading 2 Kings 1 Throne after this, as it definitely made me want to continue with this Authors books.

I don't think I could recommend this enough as an entryway into The Jade Pandora Saga.

[Chris Revill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really loved this book so much that the character has really opened my eyes to being strong and independent. Love the story and lemma has really got to me in a good way on a personal level and has even given me the confidence and strength in the aspect of being able to change my own life for the better.

Andy as an author is one of the best authors to come across and this is the only book that’s ever touched me in life and given me hope of a better life for myself.

[Alice Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prequel to the 1st book The Jade Pandora. Easy read and great story.

[Jay.Booktok.1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a 0.5 in the series and the author has yet again wrote a amazing story!!

I love how this book introduces Lemma and you get to see a completely different side to her!, she is still a bad arse and the adventures are just as amazing but it makes you feel closer to the character, like you understand the reason she is how she is in Two Kings One Throne, I love the new characters introduced! Nyrina is such a good character.

this book is filled with adventure, but also humour, ligh heartedness the reality of what its like to be a woman in that era with the responsibilities she has!!

you dont need to read this ro read Two Kings One Throne, its so informative, interactive but if u want too it literally ends where a few pages in Two King's One Throne starts abd I love how that has been done!

highly reccomended novella at only 113 pages its a small story but its filled to the brim with all you need to read a good book!!

ive read this more than once and I really resonate with Lemma and I love her attitude, her strength her determination but also her humanity!!!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this little book, I couldn't put it down. Such great story telling, highly recommend

[Amy Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this novella! Lemma is literally a cool warrior! Lemma is badass and I love her for it. Thank you for this beauty! Hope to see more!

[Catherine Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! I love the main character Lemma and how humble she is. 5☆

[Honeybee reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely loved this and getting a insight to lemma my favorite by the way sorry andy lol and you can read it in one setting such a wonderful story

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

NOTE: I read this novella before opening book one, so although I'm reading it in chronological order, you may have a different reading experience if you have read by release date order.

You meet Princess Lemma (MFC) sparing with soldiers & as the plot develops you learn about her lineage in the Royal family, their dynamics, her purpose within that family, her history, her mentality, her principles & her cheeky ways.

Being a novella there are a few scuffles, but no epic 'warrior' fight scenes. However, you do get treated to a couple battle scenes with mythical creatures which are fabulously extravagant, being more of one-on-one fight scenes.

The book flows well with a mid-pacing which leans well in to the storyline, especially when Lemma goes on her travels, giving the reader the sense of time. Throughout the book there is a slight 'flavour' of Far Eastern folklore with references to the Kitsune, the Kunii dagger & the use of a throwing star as the main weapon of choice for Lemma, which adds additional layers to the storyline.

For me the book gives off 'oldie worldie' vibes, due to the language style it is written in, which gives another dimensional layer to the story-telling, along with the comic timing with the one-liners & overall humour that runs through the pages lifting the story from the page. I loved the use of 'wheat sacks' & 'mud munchers' as alternatives for more expletives in this fantasy world.

An entertaining & informative introduction to the Jade Pandora Saga, which will peak your interest in to picking up book 1, as I know it has to me! I think any avid fantasy readers would enjoy this novella.

[Saoirse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's Star at the very beginning, a very good place to Star!

Lemma is a prequel novella which fleshes out the character of Lemma as well as giving more world building focusing on the royal family and people of Sciran.

Find out the events leading up to the fateful moment Lemma crosses paths with Zenith.

Though short this novella does a great job of making Lemma a more well rounded character and sharing her motivations for later in the saga as well as giving us more lore about the Star of Sciran.

If you enjoyed Two Kings One Throne picking this up is a must!

[Gordon Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book, although Lemma was not my favourite character in the authors first Novel, it was a very good to see the author has built on the world he has created, exceptional world building and character development, absolutely would recommend to anyone who has an interest in shorter stories or fantasy and adventure stories.

[Amy Maunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a incredible novella story to the incredible Jade Pandora Two kings and one throne. Please everyone reads both of these incredible books. Truly remarkable story and author. 9.8 out of 10 experience. No spoilers review. Enjoy!.

[Ryan-Lee Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read before starting 2K1T. A very interesting and short read to delve into the MC’s story. Keeps you reading with the right amount of action, humour and emotion. Very much looking forward to delving deeper into this world!