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The Star-Crossed Gods #2
Throne of the Wolf Queen
Love was once her salvation. Now it’s her deadliest enemy.
Queen Sorrow has survived monsters, a coup, and defied the gods. Yet now she faces not just an army, but the man who holds her heart.
Matthias was once Sorrow’s shelter, her strength – now he is a weapon in the cruel hands of the empress. Bound to the will of his enemy, Matthias is no longer the man Sorrow fell for, hunting her down without by day, by night, even in their dreams.
And still, she cannot stop loving him.
Sorrow will do whatever it takes to reclaim her stolen throne and save the man who still makes her burn. The magic binding Matthias is powerful, but even the strongest spells can be broken…
Fleeing with her loyal wolf at her side, she struggles to stay one step ahead of Matthias, searching desperately for a way to set him free.
But time is running out.
When Sorrow reaches rebel territory – the last refuge beyond the empress’s control – she realises there is nowhere left to run.
Can love save them both… or will the bond between them obliterate their kingdom?
The sizzling conclusion to epic romantasy duology the Star-Crossed Gods. Fans of Hannah Whitten, Leigh Bardugo and Sable Sorensen will love the gothic atmosphere, feisty heroine and delicious yearning.
💔 Star-crossed lovers 🔱 Vengeful gods 🗡 Damsels out of distress ❤️ I can fix him 🔮 Dark magic 💛 Found family
Readers are raving about the
‘I spiralled into it like a woman possessed. You start a book thinking “I’ll just read a chapter before bed”… THERE IS NO WAY you’re stopping… CHEF’S KISS… I was absolutely eating it up… Such an addictive romantasy… inhaled it in basically one sitting… Going to live rent free in my brain.’ plottwistjess, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I may be a little obsessed with Matthias… Perfect romantasy book boyfriend!’ _fantasy_and_thrillers, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Yearning off the charts… Devoured it in less than 24 hours. I loved Sorrow and Matthias… amazing.’ Bookishbookwormreads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was hooked… The humour was fantastic… I found hard to put down… Honestly so obsessed with this. I need the next book yesterday!’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I couldn’t put this down. I loved the world building… heartbreaking… I about threw my tablet across the room. I was going through all the emotions while reading this.’ chey. enne_books, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Incredible… Omgg… a 6-star read for me for 2026!!… So many of my favourite tropes… I have so many emotions after that &l
Queen Sorrow has survived monsters, a coup, and defied the gods. Yet now she faces not just an army, but the man who holds her heart.
Matthias was once Sorrow’s shelter, her strength – now he is a weapon in the cruel hands of the empress. Bound to the will of his enemy, Matthias is no longer the man Sorrow fell for, hunting her down without by day, by night, even in their dreams.
And still, she cannot stop loving him.
Sorrow will do whatever it takes to reclaim her stolen throne and save the man who still makes her burn. The magic binding Matthias is powerful, but even the strongest spells can be broken…
Fleeing with her loyal wolf at her side, she struggles to stay one step ahead of Matthias, searching desperately for a way to set him free.
But time is running out.
When Sorrow reaches rebel territory – the last refuge beyond the empress’s control – she realises there is nowhere left to run.
Can love save them both… or will the bond between them obliterate their kingdom?
The sizzling conclusion to epic romantasy duology the Star-Crossed Gods. Fans of Hannah Whitten, Leigh Bardugo and Sable Sorensen will love the gothic atmosphere, feisty heroine and delicious yearning.
💔 Star-crossed lovers 🔱 Vengeful gods 🗡 Damsels out of distress ❤️ I can fix him 🔮 Dark magic 💛 Found family
Readers are raving about the
‘I spiralled into it like a woman possessed. You start a book thinking “I’ll just read a chapter before bed”… THERE IS NO WAY you’re stopping… CHEF’S KISS… I was absolutely eating it up… Such an addictive romantasy… inhaled it in basically one sitting… Going to live rent free in my brain.’ plottwistjess, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I may be a little obsessed with Matthias… Perfect romantasy book boyfriend!’ _fantasy_and_thrillers, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Yearning off the charts… Devoured it in less than 24 hours. I loved Sorrow and Matthias… amazing.’ Bookishbookwormreads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was hooked… The humour was fantastic… I found hard to put down… Honestly so obsessed with this. I need the next book yesterday!’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I couldn’t put this down. I loved the world building… heartbreaking… I about threw my tablet across the room. I was going through all the emotions while reading this.’ chey. enne_books, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Incredible… Omgg… a 6-star read for me for 2026!!… So many of my favourite tropes… I have so many emotions after that &l
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2026
About the author
Sarah Gallego
2 books69 followersSarah Gallego is an author of dark fantasy romance who lives in North Wales with her husband and four children. Sarah is the author of the Star-Crossed Duology. She loves to create unforgettable flawed characters and dark, gothic worlds, with an inclusive cast of characters. Her stories are always filled with the weird and wonderful and she adores to throw in a small dash of heartbreak for her characters along the way. When she's not writing, Sarah can be found drawing, listening to an eclectic mix of music and drinking copious amounts of tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My close friends will know how much I have raved about the first book in the Star Crossed Gods duology for many months, so I could not wait to dive in to the sequel. Especially after THAT cliffhanger! Readers will definitely need to read book 1 first!
This book does a lot of setting up in the first half, and the second half is much more dramatic and action packed as the story is tied up. The author's writing is truly beautiful, almost poetic at times. It is impressive, as if she has been a published writer for longer than a few months!
The ending had me in tears, and I have loved following Sorrow's story and will genuinely miss the characters. I cannot wait to see the world Gallego creates in her next book. She is an author on the rise.
This book does a lot of setting up in the first half, and the second half is much more dramatic and action packed as the story is tied up. The author's writing is truly beautiful, almost poetic at times. It is impressive, as if she has been a published writer for longer than a few months!
The ending had me in tears, and I have loved following Sorrow's story and will genuinely miss the characters. I cannot wait to see the world Gallego creates in her next book. She is an author on the rise.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unfortunately, Throne of the Wolf Queen didn’t quite hit the same for me as the first book. I still enjoyed the story overall, but I struggled with the pacing. There were quite a few places where it felt slow, and there were also moments where I found myself a little confused about what was happening.
I really liked Sorrow as the FMC and enjoyed following her throughout the story, but I didn’t connect with Matthias quite as much as I hoped I would. I think that made it harder for me to become fully invested in their relationship.
One thing I really enjoyed, though, was the introduction of a new character who I will affectionately be calling the drunken mariner because spoilers. I ended up being surprisingly invested in him, and honestly… I would absolutely read a book centered around his story.
Overall, I think this was a decent conclusion to the duology, but I definitely preferred the first book. Even though this one didn’t completely work for me, I’m glad I read the series and got to experience Sorrow’s story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Second Sky and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked Sorrow as the FMC and enjoyed following her throughout the story, but I didn’t connect with Matthias quite as much as I hoped I would. I think that made it harder for me to become fully invested in their relationship.
One thing I really enjoyed, though, was the introduction of a new character who I will affectionately be calling the drunken mariner because spoilers. I ended up being surprisingly invested in him, and honestly… I would absolutely read a book centered around his story.
Overall, I think this was a decent conclusion to the duology, but I definitely preferred the first book. Even though this one didn’t completely work for me, I’m glad I read the series and got to experience Sorrow’s story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Second Sky and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Throne of the Wolf Queen by Sarah Gallego 🐺👑
This book got me ALL emotional at the end 😭 I genuinely don’t know if I can recover from that.
This was such a fast-paced, all-consuming sequel and it wrapped the story up perfectly… even if it did absolutely destroy me emotionally. 🥹
I loved the whole gods aspect and the storyline surrounding a certain god 👀 Gosh, this is so hard to talk about without spoilers! And the Empress? I could have wrung her neck. She was HORRID. 😂
If you loved the first book, I highly recommend picking this one up! We get more action, more spice and, most importantly, more Pablo 🥹❤️
Thank you so much to Second Sky for the early copy! ✨
This book got me ALL emotional at the end 😭 I genuinely don’t know if I can recover from that.
This was such a fast-paced, all-consuming sequel and it wrapped the story up perfectly… even if it did absolutely destroy me emotionally. 🥹
I loved the whole gods aspect and the storyline surrounding a certain god 👀 Gosh, this is so hard to talk about without spoilers! And the Empress? I could have wrung her neck. She was HORRID. 😂
If you loved the first book, I highly recommend picking this one up! We get more action, more spice and, most importantly, more Pablo 🥹❤️
Thank you so much to Second Sky for the early copy! ✨
August 25, 2026
4.5 stars ✨
My heart is so very full right now 🥹
I remember reading the eARC for Heart of the Wolf Queen when I was in a pretty crappy headspace, and I adored it. Since then I’ve been excited for the final part of Sorrow & Matthias’s story and it did not disappoint.
With plenty of action, some seriously heartbreaking moments, and a gorgeous love story between two people who have been in love since they were children, Throne of the Wolf Queen ticks all the boxes for being a great romantasy.
There are two things I loved especially with this book, and the duology as a whole. Firstly, the loss of sight representation is written extremely well and it made me love Sorrow even more. I absolutely love a powerful, sassy FMC, and the fact she is a force to be reckoned with despite her differences, is an important part of this book.
Secondly, I just adored Sorrow & Matthias’s love story. Their banter was funny and believable, their chemistry worked so well, and honestly? I just bloody loved Matthias. Poor lad just can’t get it right sometimes 🤣 but his love for Sorrow just had me swooning.
I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters and this world, but what an excellent time I had. Thank you so much to Sarah, the wonderful folks at Second Sky, and NetGalley for the eARC 😘
My heart is so very full right now 🥹
I remember reading the eARC for Heart of the Wolf Queen when I was in a pretty crappy headspace, and I adored it. Since then I’ve been excited for the final part of Sorrow & Matthias’s story and it did not disappoint.
With plenty of action, some seriously heartbreaking moments, and a gorgeous love story between two people who have been in love since they were children, Throne of the Wolf Queen ticks all the boxes for being a great romantasy.
There are two things I loved especially with this book, and the duology as a whole. Firstly, the loss of sight representation is written extremely well and it made me love Sorrow even more. I absolutely love a powerful, sassy FMC, and the fact she is a force to be reckoned with despite her differences, is an important part of this book.
Secondly, I just adored Sorrow & Matthias’s love story. Their banter was funny and believable, their chemistry worked so well, and honestly? I just bloody loved Matthias. Poor lad just can’t get it right sometimes 🤣 but his love for Sorrow just had me swooning.
I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters and this world, but what an excellent time I had. Thank you so much to Sarah, the wonderful folks at Second Sky, and NetGalley for the eARC 😘
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having enjoyed the first book I was appalled how it ended so could not get this sequel quick enough and so happy I've read it. Essentially Matthias was left with the evil Empress and totally controlled by her due to magical tattoos. Sorrow is heartbroken but determined to unite the remaining kingdoms against invasion by the Empress and her troops.
Ok then without spoilers what do I think ? I loved being back with these characters and Matthias absolutely adored Sorrow and freely admits that he charges headfirst and makes sometimes serious mistakes. Sorrow is perfection as a FMC and oh so brave when she has to be. I particularly liked that inspite of her failing eyesight Sorrow never let herself be controlled by it. You go girl !
What perhaps let this down a little was for me I just didn't quite understand exactly how it why Matthias's father had acted as he did and then there's the death of a close family member ( I won't say who) and it felt glossed over terribly quickly. A big shout out to Pablo obviously as he's a star and then of course Hawk who was a man of mystery or was he ?
If you enjoy tortured lovers who will go through anything for each other then this is perfect for you. Plus if you enjoy an epilogue with a peek into a much happier future then definitely put this author on your tbr pile.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley
Ok then without spoilers what do I think ? I loved being back with these characters and Matthias absolutely adored Sorrow and freely admits that he charges headfirst and makes sometimes serious mistakes. Sorrow is perfection as a FMC and oh so brave when she has to be. I particularly liked that inspite of her failing eyesight Sorrow never let herself be controlled by it. You go girl !
What perhaps let this down a little was for me I just didn't quite understand exactly how it why Matthias's father had acted as he did and then there's the death of a close family member ( I won't say who) and it felt glossed over terribly quickly. A big shout out to Pablo obviously as he's a star and then of course Hawk who was a man of mystery or was he ?
If you enjoy tortured lovers who will go through anything for each other then this is perfect for you. Plus if you enjoy an epilogue with a peek into a much happier future then definitely put this author on your tbr pile.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley
September 8, 2026
3⭐️
2🌶️
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for an e-arc of this book.
Unfortunately, I just kind of struggled through this book. I didn’t feel like I really connected all that much to the story or characters. I felt lost at times and there was a lack of world building even as we progressed the story.
It had its good moments but overall, I read through it just to finish it to give a complete review.
I did like that we expanded to both Sorrow and Matthias’s POV, since they were separated a good chunk of the book. It helped give a more rounded story but even for the villain, we didn’t even really understand her motive behind everything until the very end and the climax of the story felt very rushed.
We have a little bit of spice (a bit more than book 1). There’s no doubt of the love Matthias has for Sorrow. You feel it so much in his inner monologue the whole book. We get some good “my wife” moments and he is not here for ANYONE to put his wife down, at all. I loved that!
This book definitely gives you a diverse set of characters and representation, and I enjoy that, don’t get me wrong, but it started to feel at times like it was there to check off boxes vs meaningful representation. That’s just my opinion.
This is the end of this duology. I’m grateful to have been an arc reader for both books, it just didn’t end up being for me 100% and that’s ok! I wish the author all the best of luck! ❤️
2🌶️
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for an e-arc of this book.
Unfortunately, I just kind of struggled through this book. I didn’t feel like I really connected all that much to the story or characters. I felt lost at times and there was a lack of world building even as we progressed the story.
It had its good moments but overall, I read through it just to finish it to give a complete review.
I did like that we expanded to both Sorrow and Matthias’s POV, since they were separated a good chunk of the book. It helped give a more rounded story but even for the villain, we didn’t even really understand her motive behind everything until the very end and the climax of the story felt very rushed.
We have a little bit of spice (a bit more than book 1). There’s no doubt of the love Matthias has for Sorrow. You feel it so much in his inner monologue the whole book. We get some good “my wife” moments and he is not here for ANYONE to put his wife down, at all. I loved that!
This book definitely gives you a diverse set of characters and representation, and I enjoy that, don’t get me wrong, but it started to feel at times like it was there to check off boxes vs meaningful representation. That’s just my opinion.
This is the end of this duology. I’m grateful to have been an arc reader for both books, it just didn’t end up being for me 100% and that’s ok! I wish the author all the best of luck! ❤️
September 2, 2026
Thank you to Second Sky, NetGalley, and the author for this advanced copy. This was such a perfect conclusion to this Duology.
I loved how the world building expanded in this book. There was a lot more lore and information about the gods.
While Matthias and Sorrow were apart for the first half of this, I didn’t mind it so much because my girl Sorrow carried this book by herself (with the help of Pablo). Also, having dual POV helped. Sorrow has got to be one of my favorite FMCs. She is naturally funny without trying to be, she’s smart and brave, and she curses a lot. I felt the angst and yearning coming off of the page reading both Matthias and Sorrow’s POVs. I just love them as a couple.
Hawk was a fun surprise that I totally wasn’t expecting and the revelations about Sorrow’s ancestry was surprising and fun.
The whole time, I was rooting for Matthias and Sorrow to get their happy ending, and they did. That epilogue was so bittersweet 😭 Pablo is the bestest boy. This is one of my absolute favorite duologies and is perfect for people who like a strong (mentally), smart FMCs, meddling gods, yearning, childhood friends to lovers, second change romance, unique magic systems, a badass animal companion, and disability rep.
I loved how the world building expanded in this book. There was a lot more lore and information about the gods.
While Matthias and Sorrow were apart for the first half of this, I didn’t mind it so much because my girl Sorrow carried this book by herself (with the help of Pablo). Also, having dual POV helped. Sorrow has got to be one of my favorite FMCs. She is naturally funny without trying to be, she’s smart and brave, and she curses a lot. I felt the angst and yearning coming off of the page reading both Matthias and Sorrow’s POVs. I just love them as a couple.
Hawk was a fun surprise that I totally wasn’t expecting and the revelations about Sorrow’s ancestry was surprising and fun.
The whole time, I was rooting for Matthias and Sorrow to get their happy ending, and they did. That epilogue was so bittersweet 😭 Pablo is the bestest boy. This is one of my absolute favorite duologies and is perfect for people who like a strong (mentally), smart FMCs, meddling gods, yearning, childhood friends to lovers, second change romance, unique magic systems, a badass animal companion, and disability rep.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I recently read Throne of the Wolf Queen and as much as I wanted to love it, it unfortunately fell a bit flat for me. I had high hopes for this one because I knew we would be getting more magic, more of the world and a better understanding of the enemy, which we absolutely did! I just found it all to be pretty predictable and the story just didn't feel very high stakes to me.
Pablo is still my favourite character, closely followed by 'Hawk' who I thought was great! You could really feel his tension, power, hatred & despair. I genuinely thought his scenes were some of the best and I really enjoyed them. Sorrow & Matthias however... They still didn't feel like true lovers to me, they very much felt like friends who were just settling for what they knew and I still really struggled to connect with them both (the same as in book one). Even Asher, who I completely adored in the first book, was barely in this one & when he was, he just felt very underwhelming to me.
I really wanted to love this series because it has so many things that I adore but sadly it's just not for me. I know a lot of people who already do/will absolutely love it though and it definitely has an audience out there. Thank you to Second Sky for my eARC, these opinions are completely my own🫶
Pablo is still my favourite character, closely followed by 'Hawk' who I thought was great! You could really feel his tension, power, hatred & despair. I genuinely thought his scenes were some of the best and I really enjoyed them. Sorrow & Matthias however... They still didn't feel like true lovers to me, they very much felt like friends who were just settling for what they knew and I still really struggled to connect with them both (the same as in book one). Even Asher, who I completely adored in the first book, was barely in this one & when he was, he just felt very underwhelming to me.
I really wanted to love this series because it has so many things that I adore but sadly it's just not for me. I know a lot of people who already do/will absolutely love it though and it definitely has an audience out there. Thank you to Second Sky for my eARC, these opinions are completely my own🫶
September 18, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for an ARC of this book!
Book 1 of this series was such an unexpected read for me, I couldn’t wait to start reading this one! This book picks up right where we left off. I needed a recap for this one, and I appreciated the list of characters the author had before the story began to help me remember the major cliff hanger!
I loved the magical systems in this series! The connection to the tattoos and the power and control that can be forced upon these characters was so unique. There was some serious tension between Sorrow and Matthias in their marriage. I think it was more believable in the first book than this one. There is a huge wedge between them because of what happened, so I think that made it hard as the reader to make their relationship believable with how much betrayal they have overcome.
I loved learning more about the gods in this one. There was quite a bit of religion and spiritual conversations throughout this one so I thought we would get to see more in this duology! I did enjoy that we got dual POV in this one. I found myself curious where Matthias was in all of this, so I appreciated getting to see that. I am such a sucker for an amazing epilogue and I felt that we got that!
Book 1 of this series was such an unexpected read for me, I couldn’t wait to start reading this one! This book picks up right where we left off. I needed a recap for this one, and I appreciated the list of characters the author had before the story began to help me remember the major cliff hanger!
I loved the magical systems in this series! The connection to the tattoos and the power and control that can be forced upon these characters was so unique. There was some serious tension between Sorrow and Matthias in their marriage. I think it was more believable in the first book than this one. There is a huge wedge between them because of what happened, so I think that made it hard as the reader to make their relationship believable with how much betrayal they have overcome.
I loved learning more about the gods in this one. There was quite a bit of religion and spiritual conversations throughout this one so I thought we would get to see more in this duology! I did enjoy that we got dual POV in this one. I found myself curious where Matthias was in all of this, so I appreciated getting to see that. I am such a sucker for an amazing epilogue and I felt that we got that!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Before you start reading this review, if you haven’t read Heart of the Wolf Queen, please stop, and read that book first. Throne of the Wolf Queen is a sequel, and it is essential to read these in order.
I have been waiting patiently for this book, after the enormous cliffhanger that the author, Sarah Gallego, had left her readers on. The book starts fairly soon after the events on the beach, which are still having huge ramifications. I can’t say any more, as I might risk giving away a spoiler.
I found the mid section of the book to be slower paced, but this did reflect and accentuate the emotions of the characters at that point.
While I missed a character that we lost in the previous book, I was amused by a new, yet very old, addition. How a character can make me smile and shudder at once, I don’t know, but this one did.
The author really pulled on my heart strings towards the end of the book, the tears she shed while writing that paragraph were reflected in my own eyes.
This final book of the duology didn’t hold me in quite the same way as the first, so I’m giving 3.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 4 ⭐️
I have been waiting patiently for this book, after the enormous cliffhanger that the author, Sarah Gallego, had left her readers on. The book starts fairly soon after the events on the beach, which are still having huge ramifications. I can’t say any more, as I might risk giving away a spoiler.
I found the mid section of the book to be slower paced, but this did reflect and accentuate the emotions of the characters at that point.
While I missed a character that we lost in the previous book, I was amused by a new, yet very old, addition. How a character can make me smile and shudder at once, I don’t know, but this one did.
The author really pulled on my heart strings towards the end of the book, the tears she shed while writing that paragraph were reflected in my own eyes.
This final book of the duology didn’t hold me in quite the same way as the first, so I’m giving 3.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 4 ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 stars
That final 20% absolutely BROKE me 😭
Throne of the Wolf Queen was such a high-stakes, emotional conclusion to this duology. Gods meddling where they absolutely shouldn’t, political scheming, betrayals, magic, danger and SO much yearning.
I loved watching Sorrow step fully into her power while navigating everything that had been taken from her. The disability representation surrounding her sight loss was handled so well, and she remained stubborn, powerful and wonderfully imperfect.
And Matthias 😭 That poor, seriously unlucky man. The history between him and Sorrow, the devotion, the yearning, the pain - Sarah Gallego really put that man THROUGH IT.
The stakes just kept climbing, and by the final 20% I was genuinely crying. I had no idea how everything could possibly be resolved.
And obviously, Pablo remains an icon 🐺
I’m so sad to leave Sorrow, Matthias, Pablo and this world behind. Such an emotional and satisfying ending to a brilliant duology.
Thank you so much to Second Sky and NetGalley for the eARC🖤
That final 20% absolutely BROKE me 😭
Throne of the Wolf Queen was such a high-stakes, emotional conclusion to this duology. Gods meddling where they absolutely shouldn’t, political scheming, betrayals, magic, danger and SO much yearning.
I loved watching Sorrow step fully into her power while navigating everything that had been taken from her. The disability representation surrounding her sight loss was handled so well, and she remained stubborn, powerful and wonderfully imperfect.
And Matthias 😭 That poor, seriously unlucky man. The history between him and Sorrow, the devotion, the yearning, the pain - Sarah Gallego really put that man THROUGH IT.
The stakes just kept climbing, and by the final 20% I was genuinely crying. I had no idea how everything could possibly be resolved.
And obviously, Pablo remains an icon 🐺
I’m so sad to leave Sorrow, Matthias, Pablo and this world behind. Such an emotional and satisfying ending to a brilliant duology.
Thank you so much to Second Sky and NetGalley for the eARC🖤
October 2, 2026
Thank you to Second Sky for entrusting me with an early gifted egalley!
Throne of the Wolf Queen
The Star-Crossed Gods book 2 (completed duology)
Dark fantasy romance
Dual POV
Found family
Amazing wolf companion
Disability rep (partially sighted FMC)
Queer normative world
Open door spice
Slow burn
Yearning
Gothic setting/atmosphere
Vengeful gods
Woah. What a ride. Things sure escalated. The villain was as terrifying with being able to control people and the world was expanded in both location and characters. Pablo the wolf still stole the show!
This book didn't quite grab me as strongly as book 1, but I did have to know what happened with Sorrow and Matthias and Pablo! Their battle was hard fought, by both them and the rest of the crew, and there was a lot of emotion throughout. The ending (especially the epilogue) was so bittersweet and got me right in the feels!
Throne of the Wolf Queen
The Star-Crossed Gods book 2 (completed duology)
Dark fantasy romance
Dual POV
Found family
Amazing wolf companion
Disability rep (partially sighted FMC)
Queer normative world
Open door spice
Slow burn
Yearning
Gothic setting/atmosphere
Vengeful gods
Woah. What a ride. Things sure escalated. The villain was as terrifying with being able to control people and the world was expanded in both location and characters. Pablo the wolf still stole the show!
This book didn't quite grab me as strongly as book 1, but I did have to know what happened with Sorrow and Matthias and Pablo! Their battle was hard fought, by both them and the rest of the crew, and there was a lot of emotion throughout. The ending (especially the epilogue) was so bittersweet and got me right in the feels!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5⭐️'s
Throne of the Wolf Queen is the final instalment in the Star-Crossed Gods duology, and this high-energy romantasy throws you straight back into the thick of it from the very beginning.
There was so much I enjoyed about this book, but the stellar character development was a particular highlight — especially Sorrow's.
Fresh from the excruciating betrayal at the end of The Heart of the Wolf Queen, Sorrow flees to her childhood home of Bronzehold... which turns out to be about as safe as you'd expect when seemingly half the household is determined to assassinate you.
Unable to trust almost anyone and with barely a safe space at her disposal, Sorrow must learn to understand and control her "deviant" abilities while also figuring out how to become the strong ruler her people can believe in and follow. Watching her grow into herself, while recognising just how invaluable the few people who remain fiercely loyal to her truly are, was incredibly satisfying.
This book also gave us something I felt The Heart of the Wolf Queen was missing: Matthias's POV.
And WHAT a difference it made.
Getting inside his head and understanding the torment, conflict and internal battle he was facing added another layer to both his character and the story. It gave much more weight to his actions and helped balance Sorrow's perspective beautifully. Plus, when you're dealing with this level of yearning, I absolutely want to know that BOTH of them are suffering.
There is A LOT happening here — magic, politics, betrayal, danger, romance, shifting loyalties and plenty of action — but Sarah Gallego weaves everything together seamlessly without the plot ever becoming overly complicated or weighed down by too much detail.
There really isn't much I can find fault with. My only slight disappointment was that the conclusion and epilogue felt a little rushed. After everything these characters had been through, I would have loved a little more time with them and for some of those final moments to have been explored more fully.
And now, obviously, we need to discuss the true star of this duology...
PABLO.
Still my favourite. Still an icon.
I adore his unwavering loyalty to Sorrow, especially when it's combined with absolute sass and a fiercely independent personality. Frankly, Pablo deserves his own spin-off. I would read it. Immediately.
Overall, Throne of the Wolf Queen is a fantastic conclusion to a duology I've thoroughly enjoyed. If you love darker romantasy with danger, political intrigue, delicious yearning, strong disability representation and a third-chance romance (because apparently these two needed more than one do-over), this absolutely deserves a place on your TBR.
If you enjoyed the darker fantasy elements of Dire Bound or particularly appreciated the disability representation in books such as Fourth Wing, I think The Star-Crossed Gods duology could be right up your street.
Magic. Betrayal. Yearning. Political intrigue. An opinionated wolf. What more do you need?
Throne of the Wolf Queen is the final instalment in the Star-Crossed Gods duology, and this high-energy romantasy throws you straight back into the thick of it from the very beginning.
There was so much I enjoyed about this book, but the stellar character development was a particular highlight — especially Sorrow's.
Fresh from the excruciating betrayal at the end of The Heart of the Wolf Queen, Sorrow flees to her childhood home of Bronzehold... which turns out to be about as safe as you'd expect when seemingly half the household is determined to assassinate you.
Unable to trust almost anyone and with barely a safe space at her disposal, Sorrow must learn to understand and control her "deviant" abilities while also figuring out how to become the strong ruler her people can believe in and follow. Watching her grow into herself, while recognising just how invaluable the few people who remain fiercely loyal to her truly are, was incredibly satisfying.
This book also gave us something I felt The Heart of the Wolf Queen was missing: Matthias's POV.
And WHAT a difference it made.
Getting inside his head and understanding the torment, conflict and internal battle he was facing added another layer to both his character and the story. It gave much more weight to his actions and helped balance Sorrow's perspective beautifully. Plus, when you're dealing with this level of yearning, I absolutely want to know that BOTH of them are suffering.
There is A LOT happening here — magic, politics, betrayal, danger, romance, shifting loyalties and plenty of action — but Sarah Gallego weaves everything together seamlessly without the plot ever becoming overly complicated or weighed down by too much detail.
There really isn't much I can find fault with. My only slight disappointment was that the conclusion and epilogue felt a little rushed. After everything these characters had been through, I would have loved a little more time with them and for some of those final moments to have been explored more fully.
And now, obviously, we need to discuss the true star of this duology...
PABLO.
Still my favourite. Still an icon.
I adore his unwavering loyalty to Sorrow, especially when it's combined with absolute sass and a fiercely independent personality. Frankly, Pablo deserves his own spin-off. I would read it. Immediately.
Overall, Throne of the Wolf Queen is a fantastic conclusion to a duology I've thoroughly enjoyed. If you love darker romantasy with danger, political intrigue, delicious yearning, strong disability representation and a third-chance romance (because apparently these two needed more than one do-over), this absolutely deserves a place on your TBR.
If you enjoyed the darker fantasy elements of Dire Bound or particularly appreciated the disability representation in books such as Fourth Wing, I think The Star-Crossed Gods duology could be right up your street.
Magic. Betrayal. Yearning. Political intrigue. An opinionated wolf. What more do you need?
September 19, 2026
2.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to Sarah Gallego and Second Sky for an eARC of this book on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Favourite tropes:
- Animal companion - Pablo is the best character and I cannot be persuaded otherwise.
- Strong FMC - Sorrow is resilient and won’t let anything stand between her and Matthias
Overall, this was a satisfying conclusion to the duology but unfortunately it just wasn’t quite the right series for me.
As with book 1, we have a diverse set of characters and these felt like neither an add-on nor a ‘big deal’, which was a good balance for me. There was a little less exploration of this diversity in this book, which is to be expected as the characters were mostly the same as in book 1, but I still enjoyed reading about characters where diversity is simply normal (as it should be!)
Again, as with book 1, I enjoyed the excerpts at the start of each chapter - letters and book extracts which helped support the wider world building. Unfortunately, despite this I didn’t feel the world building advanced much in this book. We had a little more court politics, but I was hoping to learn much more about the world after book 1, which didn’t materialise. It felt like there was a lot of plot packed into this book, but possibly to the detriment of its depth, as some parts felt rushed, particularly the last few chapters.
I still love the magic system and have yet to read another book like it. Book 1 was the strongest here as Sorrow learns to harness her powers, so we don’t get quite the same depth of exploration here, but we still get to see a lot of magic and also get a bit more insight into Vyrus and Evella (god/goddess) who are mentioned throughout the duology.
I was hoping to see greater character development in book 2, and was somewhat disappointed that I didn’t feel I knew Sorrow, Matthias or any of the minor characters much better. The dual POV helped me understand Matthias a little more but so much of his POV was about his love for Sorrow that I quickly grew tired of the repetitive statements. It sadly wasn’t much better with Sorrow’s POV. This may not bother others as much, but I prefer to see devotion through actions rather than frequent statements about the love they feel for their other half.
Overall, I’m glad I finished this duology as I enjoyed the story and the magic system, but it was let down by weak character development and a writing style that isn’t for me. I really hope this series finds readers who will enjoy it a little more!
Thank you to Sarah Gallego and Second Sky for an eARC of this book on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Favourite tropes:
- Animal companion - Pablo is the best character and I cannot be persuaded otherwise.
- Strong FMC - Sorrow is resilient and won’t let anything stand between her and Matthias
Overall, this was a satisfying conclusion to the duology but unfortunately it just wasn’t quite the right series for me.
As with book 1, we have a diverse set of characters and these felt like neither an add-on nor a ‘big deal’, which was a good balance for me. There was a little less exploration of this diversity in this book, which is to be expected as the characters were mostly the same as in book 1, but I still enjoyed reading about characters where diversity is simply normal (as it should be!)
Again, as with book 1, I enjoyed the excerpts at the start of each chapter - letters and book extracts which helped support the wider world building. Unfortunately, despite this I didn’t feel the world building advanced much in this book. We had a little more court politics, but I was hoping to learn much more about the world after book 1, which didn’t materialise. It felt like there was a lot of plot packed into this book, but possibly to the detriment of its depth, as some parts felt rushed, particularly the last few chapters.
I still love the magic system and have yet to read another book like it. Book 1 was the strongest here as Sorrow learns to harness her powers, so we don’t get quite the same depth of exploration here, but we still get to see a lot of magic and also get a bit more insight into Vyrus and Evella (god/goddess) who are mentioned throughout the duology.
I was hoping to see greater character development in book 2, and was somewhat disappointed that I didn’t feel I knew Sorrow, Matthias or any of the minor characters much better. The dual POV helped me understand Matthias a little more but so much of his POV was about his love for Sorrow that I quickly grew tired of the repetitive statements. It sadly wasn’t much better with Sorrow’s POV. This may not bother others as much, but I prefer to see devotion through actions rather than frequent statements about the love they feel for their other half.
Overall, I’m glad I finished this duology as I enjoyed the story and the magic system, but it was let down by weak character development and a writing style that isn’t for me. I really hope this series finds readers who will enjoy it a little more!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5⭐️ // 2🌶
The conclusion of an epic romantasy duology! Throne of the wolf queen is packed with action, has an amazing lovestory & both giddy and gutwrenching moments and includes some mystery around certain characters. The book is fast paced, and the suspense makes it a real page turner. Contrary to the first book, we follow from both Sorrows & Mattias' POV, which was a great addition as they are seperated for a big chunk of the book due to Matthias' capture by the empress.
Whilst book 1 ended with the revelation of Matthias' tattoo, it is clear that his love and trust in Sorrow has never wavered. He tries to defy his orders of the empress, but the vyrium affects both his health and emotions. The way he owns up to his mistakes, gives Sorrow time to heal her trust, made me love him so much. Sorrow, even though blind, is a character to be reckoned with. Her determination to safe Matthias, the only boy she ever loved/will love, and to defeat the empress ruining the world is solid. Together with her sidekick Pablo (the best good boy, loyal to his core), she is unstoppable.
I still am in awe, knowing this magnificent duology is the debut (book1) of Gallego. The world and characters are forever etched in my heart. The writing is so good, where the nailbiting suspense is alternated with easy banter and lovepacked scenes. The characters have genuine personalities, both the main as supporting characters, making their (inter)actions believable. I know I will reread these books again (and again) and will keep an eye out for the next adventure with Gallego.
About,
Sorrow is back in the palace she grew up, surrounded by guards and servants loyal to Romero. Now that her gifts and her role in her stepfathers death are public knowledge, she is not safe in the palace of her now queen Sister. Neither is she at her kingdom that is controlled by the empress.
Along with the war and destruction of the empress, Sorrow is hurt by Matthias' actions of getting the tattoo behind her back and can not trust him as long as the vyrium controls his actions. And as if that is not enough, with Glesni gone, she needs to find a way to balance her powers by herself.
Matthias is captured by the empress. His love for Sorrow is not destructable, but whilst his heart and mind would do everything to regain her trust and love, his actions are controlled by the vyrium. Fighting his orders to bring in his wife, Matthias needs to make hard choices on who to trust in the battle for the world.
"𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚" 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚.
The conclusion of an epic romantasy duology! Throne of the wolf queen is packed with action, has an amazing lovestory & both giddy and gutwrenching moments and includes some mystery around certain characters. The book is fast paced, and the suspense makes it a real page turner. Contrary to the first book, we follow from both Sorrows & Mattias' POV, which was a great addition as they are seperated for a big chunk of the book due to Matthias' capture by the empress.
Whilst book 1 ended with the revelation of Matthias' tattoo, it is clear that his love and trust in Sorrow has never wavered. He tries to defy his orders of the empress, but the vyrium affects both his health and emotions. The way he owns up to his mistakes, gives Sorrow time to heal her trust, made me love him so much. Sorrow, even though blind, is a character to be reckoned with. Her determination to safe Matthias, the only boy she ever loved/will love, and to defeat the empress ruining the world is solid. Together with her sidekick Pablo (the best good boy, loyal to his core), she is unstoppable.
I still am in awe, knowing this magnificent duology is the debut (book1) of Gallego. The world and characters are forever etched in my heart. The writing is so good, where the nailbiting suspense is alternated with easy banter and lovepacked scenes. The characters have genuine personalities, both the main as supporting characters, making their (inter)actions believable. I know I will reread these books again (and again) and will keep an eye out for the next adventure with Gallego.
About,
Sorrow is back in the palace she grew up, surrounded by guards and servants loyal to Romero. Now that her gifts and her role in her stepfathers death are public knowledge, she is not safe in the palace of her now queen Sister. Neither is she at her kingdom that is controlled by the empress.
Along with the war and destruction of the empress, Sorrow is hurt by Matthias' actions of getting the tattoo behind her back and can not trust him as long as the vyrium controls his actions. And as if that is not enough, with Glesni gone, she needs to find a way to balance her powers by herself.
Matthias is captured by the empress. His love for Sorrow is not destructable, but whilst his heart and mind would do everything to regain her trust and love, his actions are controlled by the vyrium. Fighting his orders to bring in his wife, Matthias needs to make hard choices on who to trust in the battle for the world.
"𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚" 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Throne of the Wolf Queen* is absolutely everything I wanted from both a sequel and a climax to the *Star-Crossed Gods* series.
Book two follows the consequences of the first book’s finale, with Mattias now weaponised by the cruel hands of his mother, the Empress. The once kind-hearted, loveable man who won Sorrow’s heart against her better judgement now proves to be her greatest threat. Under the Empress’s control, he spends much of the book hunting Sorrow down, while she desperately searches for a way to bring back the man she loves before he forces her hand to end things for good.
Tonally, *TOTWQ* functions very differently from book one. While the pacing is on the slower side, the way Gallego tackles themes of autonomy, sacrifice, and the role of the Gods is absolutely relentless. Where book one definitely had its lighter moments, here it feels like the author really found her footing and left no emotional stone unturned, as it were. And once the plot really kicks into gear again, it becomes an absolute rollercoaster right through to the end.
The ending made me DM her a threat of legal action. I’ve not yet decided whether I’ll follow through with it.
I'll spoil nothing here, but make sure you have a thick pack of tissues to hand when (not if) you read this.
Book two builds beautifully on everything you’ll have loved about the first. The angst between Sorrow and Mattias is absolutely top-tier. Pablo continues to be a personal favourite, while the magic, worldbuilding, and Gods of this world only become bigger, badder, and more brilliant here.
But it doesn’t just rely on what was already established. The new additions among the rebel population bring even more life to the world, and Hawk in particular was a really, really fun addition to the cast.
Overall, *Throne of the Wolf Queen* feels like a more emotionally intense, thematically ambitious evolution of the first book, while still delivering everything that made me fall in love with this series in the first place. A brutal, angsty, magical finale — and one that I’m still considering pursuing legal action over.
Book two follows the consequences of the first book’s finale, with Mattias now weaponised by the cruel hands of his mother, the Empress. The once kind-hearted, loveable man who won Sorrow’s heart against her better judgement now proves to be her greatest threat. Under the Empress’s control, he spends much of the book hunting Sorrow down, while she desperately searches for a way to bring back the man she loves before he forces her hand to end things for good.
Tonally, *TOTWQ* functions very differently from book one. While the pacing is on the slower side, the way Gallego tackles themes of autonomy, sacrifice, and the role of the Gods is absolutely relentless. Where book one definitely had its lighter moments, here it feels like the author really found her footing and left no emotional stone unturned, as it were. And once the plot really kicks into gear again, it becomes an absolute rollercoaster right through to the end.
The ending made me DM her a threat of legal action. I’ve not yet decided whether I’ll follow through with it.
I'll spoil nothing here, but make sure you have a thick pack of tissues to hand when (not if) you read this.
Book two builds beautifully on everything you’ll have loved about the first. The angst between Sorrow and Mattias is absolutely top-tier. Pablo continues to be a personal favourite, while the magic, worldbuilding, and Gods of this world only become bigger, badder, and more brilliant here.
But it doesn’t just rely on what was already established. The new additions among the rebel population bring even more life to the world, and Hawk in particular was a really, really fun addition to the cast.
Overall, *Throne of the Wolf Queen* feels like a more emotionally intense, thematically ambitious evolution of the first book, while still delivering everything that made me fall in love with this series in the first place. A brutal, angsty, magical finale — and one that I’m still considering pursuing legal action over.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Throne of the Wolf Queen was a really satisfying conclusion to the Star-Crossed Gods duology.
I was especially excited to get back to Sorrow and Matthias after Heart of the Wolf Queen. Their relationship continues to be such a huge part of the story, and the amount of yearning, tension, and emotional turmoil between them had me completely invested. Matthias being forced to hunt the woman he loves while Sorrow is desperately trying to save him made for some seriously painful moments.
Sorrow was one of my favourite parts of this book. I loved seeing her step more fully into her strength and fight for herself, her people, and the throne that was taken from her. She isn't a perfect heroine, but watching her grow into the Wolf Queen was one of the highlights of the duology for me.
And we absolutely cannot forget Pablo. 🐺 He continues to be the best wolf companion, and honestly, I could have used even more of him.
I also enjoyed the darker atmosphere and the magical elements, especially as the story expanded on the conflict with the gods and the empress. There was plenty of action, danger, and emotional chaos to keep things moving, and I appreciated that the story didn't lose the romance underneath all of it.
There were a few moments where I wanted characters to just communicate already because some of the miscommunication and emotional back-and-forth had me frustrated. I also would have loved a little more time with certain aspects of the world and some of the secondary characters.
But overall, I really enjoyed this duology. It gave me a protective MMC, a strong heroine, a loyal wolf companion, dark magic, political conflict, and plenty of romantic angst. And while I'm a little sad to say goodbye to these characters, I was happy with where the story ultimately took them.
4/5 ⭐️
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
I was especially excited to get back to Sorrow and Matthias after Heart of the Wolf Queen. Their relationship continues to be such a huge part of the story, and the amount of yearning, tension, and emotional turmoil between them had me completely invested. Matthias being forced to hunt the woman he loves while Sorrow is desperately trying to save him made for some seriously painful moments.
Sorrow was one of my favourite parts of this book. I loved seeing her step more fully into her strength and fight for herself, her people, and the throne that was taken from her. She isn't a perfect heroine, but watching her grow into the Wolf Queen was one of the highlights of the duology for me.
And we absolutely cannot forget Pablo. 🐺 He continues to be the best wolf companion, and honestly, I could have used even more of him.
I also enjoyed the darker atmosphere and the magical elements, especially as the story expanded on the conflict with the gods and the empress. There was plenty of action, danger, and emotional chaos to keep things moving, and I appreciated that the story didn't lose the romance underneath all of it.
There were a few moments where I wanted characters to just communicate already because some of the miscommunication and emotional back-and-forth had me frustrated. I also would have loved a little more time with certain aspects of the world and some of the secondary characters.
But overall, I really enjoyed this duology. It gave me a protective MMC, a strong heroine, a loyal wolf companion, dark magic, political conflict, and plenty of romantic angst. And while I'm a little sad to say goodbye to these characters, I was happy with where the story ultimately took them.
4/5 ⭐️
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3 stars
Heart of the Wolf Queen was an unexpected favourite when I read it earlier this year so I had high hopes for the sequel. Sadly, I found Throne of the Wolf Queen a bit of a let down.
Starting with the positives. I was so happy that we got Matthias’s pov as I felt like we never really got to know him in book one. As Sorrow and Matthias spend most of the first half of the book separated, his pov is a necessity but it was also good to find out more about his character and inner thoughts. Sorrow continues to be a strong FMC but she also goes through it in this book. Her dedication to finding a cure for Matthias’s tattoos was heart warming to read as it further cements her devotion and love for him. Pablo continues to be the best companion a girl could ask for - I wish we had seen a bit more of their relationship in this book as we did in book one. I also enjoyed the introduction of the mariner (although it was obvious who he would be from the start). The epilogue was beautifully written and I shed a tear. Finally, the book felt a bit more adult than the previous one - we have more spicy scenes and some darker themes are covered including more deaths.
Sadly I found the pacing to be tough at times. Some parts, particularly near the end, felt repetitive and a bit confusing. Some of the actions of characters also didn’t align with how I would expect them to react to major events (Matthias in particular). It almost felt like big events were glossed over when they should have been given a bit more emotional depth. The descriptions in certain passages felt lacking at times and I wish we had got more background on some characters we were introduced to. I was also disappointed that Sorrow’s magic is never fully explored despite the many hints we had throughout the series. Overall I think the writing could have used a bit more editing to tell a more cohesive story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Second Sky for access to this ARC.
Heart of the Wolf Queen was an unexpected favourite when I read it earlier this year so I had high hopes for the sequel. Sadly, I found Throne of the Wolf Queen a bit of a let down.
Starting with the positives. I was so happy that we got Matthias’s pov as I felt like we never really got to know him in book one. As Sorrow and Matthias spend most of the first half of the book separated, his pov is a necessity but it was also good to find out more about his character and inner thoughts. Sorrow continues to be a strong FMC but she also goes through it in this book. Her dedication to finding a cure for Matthias’s tattoos was heart warming to read as it further cements her devotion and love for him. Pablo continues to be the best companion a girl could ask for - I wish we had seen a bit more of their relationship in this book as we did in book one. I also enjoyed the introduction of the mariner (although it was obvious who he would be from the start). The epilogue was beautifully written and I shed a tear. Finally, the book felt a bit more adult than the previous one - we have more spicy scenes and some darker themes are covered including more deaths.
Sadly I found the pacing to be tough at times. Some parts, particularly near the end, felt repetitive and a bit confusing. Some of the actions of characters also didn’t align with how I would expect them to react to major events (Matthias in particular). It almost felt like big events were glossed over when they should have been given a bit more emotional depth. The descriptions in certain passages felt lacking at times and I wish we had got more background on some characters we were introduced to. I was also disappointed that Sorrow’s magic is never fully explored despite the many hints we had throughout the series. Overall I think the writing could have used a bit more editing to tell a more cohesive story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Second Sky for access to this ARC.
September 19, 2026
So I was lucky enough to get this as an ARC From Netgalley and was very excited as I did enjoy the first one 3.75 ⭐
The story follows on from where we left Sorrow and Matthias…. He has had the tattoo put on him and is being controlled by the empress and Sorrow is home after her escaping and using her powers. This focuses more on the different people working together to help overthrow the empress. We get multiple povs from both characters as they are separated.
The story is still for me an easy read as it flows well, and does start very fast paced and then starts slowing before it ramps up again. I loved the aspect of the gods being brought into it…. And loved the introduction of a new character Hawk who riles up sorrow. Pablo is still just as perfect but slightly less than in the first one for me.
The characters I enjoy and do like and the relationships between them all is still so enjoyable to read about.
The empress is one impressive and very annoying villian as she is devious. But her motive could have had a bit more.
The banter between hawk and sorrow and Pablo was some of my favourite in the book and to be fair I think this is a lovely duology and still has a very unique aspect even if her powers were confusing at times. But again sorrow being mostly blind she is still strong and determined and you love her for it.
Unfortunately for me I did prefer book 1 just a bit more hence why this is a slightly lower rating, nothing bad about it. Still writes a bit young for me… but just think there was a bit more in the first. Still love the little letters at the start of each chapter to give that little insight of the characters. The epilogue for me was perfect…. It was a really nice way to round everything up… even if I personally would of liked to know more where V and E went (If you know you know) also PABS you are just perfection and was a joy learning about Diego having his grandfathers troublemaking
The story follows on from where we left Sorrow and Matthias…. He has had the tattoo put on him and is being controlled by the empress and Sorrow is home after her escaping and using her powers. This focuses more on the different people working together to help overthrow the empress. We get multiple povs from both characters as they are separated.
The story is still for me an easy read as it flows well, and does start very fast paced and then starts slowing before it ramps up again. I loved the aspect of the gods being brought into it…. And loved the introduction of a new character Hawk who riles up sorrow. Pablo is still just as perfect but slightly less than in the first one for me.
The characters I enjoy and do like and the relationships between them all is still so enjoyable to read about.
The empress is one impressive and very annoying villian as she is devious. But her motive could have had a bit more.
The banter between hawk and sorrow and Pablo was some of my favourite in the book and to be fair I think this is a lovely duology and still has a very unique aspect even if her powers were confusing at times. But again sorrow being mostly blind she is still strong and determined and you love her for it.
Unfortunately for me I did prefer book 1 just a bit more hence why this is a slightly lower rating, nothing bad about it. Still writes a bit young for me… but just think there was a bit more in the first. Still love the little letters at the start of each chapter to give that little insight of the characters. The epilogue for me was perfect…. It was a really nice way to round everything up… even if I personally would of liked to know more where V and E went (If you know you know) also PABS you are just perfection and was a joy learning about Diego having his grandfathers troublemaking
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Throne of the Wolf Queen is one of the sequels I was MOST anticipating this year, and I enjoyed it ALMOST as much as the first one. This book is the second half of the epic love story between Sorrow and Matthias, set across the backdrop of a war-torn fantasy world, a big bad set on destroying the world, and some very complex family dynamics.
The story between Matthias and Sorrow really focus on his efforts to make up for a huge betrayal and to earn his way back to her side, all while she is trying to save him from the consequences of that betrayal, to learn how to use her powers, and to save the world. That's a lot to pack in to a single book, and honestly, each of these three narratives have such widely different arcs that it sometimes resulted in pacing issues. The beginning of the story dragged while what should have been the last quarter of the story was crammed into half that amount of real estate.
I loved the new characters introduced by this second installment, especially Hawk. I did not love the drama with Matthias's mother, and I think his perfectly valid feelings about it were not handled well. I think the first book did a better job of handling the "real world" issues with more care. I was also surprised to reach the end of the book without any real resolution to the "out of balance" issue that was such a huge feature of both books.
In other words, I enjoyed the destination, but couldn't always enjoy the ride. Still, I'm glad to have found this duology. I loved Matthias and Sorrow's story, and I think that the epilogues were bittersweet perfection.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Second Sky for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.
The story between Matthias and Sorrow really focus on his efforts to make up for a huge betrayal and to earn his way back to her side, all while she is trying to save him from the consequences of that betrayal, to learn how to use her powers, and to save the world. That's a lot to pack in to a single book, and honestly, each of these three narratives have such widely different arcs that it sometimes resulted in pacing issues. The beginning of the story dragged while what should have been the last quarter of the story was crammed into half that amount of real estate.
I loved the new characters introduced by this second installment, especially Hawk. I did not love the drama with Matthias's mother, and I think his perfectly valid feelings about it were not handled well. I think the first book did a better job of handling the "real world" issues with more care. I was also surprised to reach the end of the book without any real resolution to the "out of balance" issue that was such a huge feature of both books.
In other words, I enjoyed the destination, but couldn't always enjoy the ride. Still, I'm glad to have found this duology. I loved Matthias and Sorrow's story, and I think that the epilogues were bittersweet perfection.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Second Sky for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4⭐️ - Slight Spoilers inc
After absolutely loving book one, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Throne of the Wolf Queen, and for the most part, it really didn’t disappoint.
Matthias and Sorrow’s story is one filled with complex emotions, betrayal, tests and twists, and I really enjoyed getting both of their POVs throughout the book. I think it worked really well for this story and gave us a chance to understand both of them and everything they were dealing with.
There were a few moments, though, where I felt the bigger events could have had more impact. In particular, what happened with his mum felt like such a HUGE moment, only for it to be almost dwindled down to nothing. I really wanted more from that storyline because it had so much potential to hit hard.
I absolutely loved the introduction of Hawk. I thought his familial connection with Sorrow was brilliant, and although I did figure out the truth about him fairly early on, it didn’t take anything away from the story for me. I actually enjoyed watching it all unfold knowing what was coming.
And obviously… Pablo 😂 I will forever love his almost human-like responses. He really is one of my favourite parts of these books. I also loved seeing the progression of the side characters, especially Enfys, Asher and Skye, and getting to see their stories develop alongside everything happening with Matthias and Sorrow.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable conclusion to the story. While there were a couple of things I would have liked to see explored a little more, I still loved the characters, the twists, the emotional moments and the world Sarah Gallego created.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Sarah Gallego for the opportunity to read this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
After absolutely loving book one, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Throne of the Wolf Queen, and for the most part, it really didn’t disappoint.
Matthias and Sorrow’s story is one filled with complex emotions, betrayal, tests and twists, and I really enjoyed getting both of their POVs throughout the book. I think it worked really well for this story and gave us a chance to understand both of them and everything they were dealing with.
There were a few moments, though, where I felt the bigger events could have had more impact. In particular, what happened with his mum felt like such a HUGE moment, only for it to be almost dwindled down to nothing. I really wanted more from that storyline because it had so much potential to hit hard.
I absolutely loved the introduction of Hawk. I thought his familial connection with Sorrow was brilliant, and although I did figure out the truth about him fairly early on, it didn’t take anything away from the story for me. I actually enjoyed watching it all unfold knowing what was coming.
And obviously… Pablo 😂 I will forever love his almost human-like responses. He really is one of my favourite parts of these books. I also loved seeing the progression of the side characters, especially Enfys, Asher and Skye, and getting to see their stories develop alongside everything happening with Matthias and Sorrow.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable conclusion to the story. While there were a couple of things I would have liked to see explored a little more, I still loved the characters, the twists, the emotional moments and the world Sarah Gallego created.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Sarah Gallego for the opportunity to read this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Throne of the Wolf Queen by Sarah Gallego was such a fun continuation of The Star-Crossed Gods series. I went into this one already invested in the world and characters, and this book absolutely delivered on the fantasy, romance, and drama.
The world-building continues to be one of my favorite parts of this series. There’s so much going on with the gods, magic, politics, and all the different powers at play, and I loved getting to explore more of it in this book.
But honestly, the characters are what kept me completely hooked. The relationships, the tension, the betrayals, and all the complicated emotions made it very easy to get invested in what was happening. There were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at the characters to just TALK to each other, but apparently that would have made things far too easy. 😂
The romance was another highlight for me. I loved the tension and the emotional stakes, and the way the relationships develop alongside all the larger fantasy elements kept me turning the pages.
There are plenty of twists and moments that had me questioning where the story was going next. Some parts felt a little slower for me, but once things started picking up, I was completely locked in.
And that ending? Yeah... I have questions.
I definitely need to know what happens next because Sarah Gallego clearly has no problem leaving me stressed and wanting more.
Overall, Throne of the Wolf Queen was an entertaining and immersive fantasy romance filled with gods, magic, complicated relationships, political intrigue, and plenty of drama. If you enjoyed the first book, this is definitely one you’ll want to pick up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky.
Throne of the Wolf Queen by Sarah Gallego was such a fun continuation of The Star-Crossed Gods series. I went into this one already invested in the world and characters, and this book absolutely delivered on the fantasy, romance, and drama.
The world-building continues to be one of my favorite parts of this series. There’s so much going on with the gods, magic, politics, and all the different powers at play, and I loved getting to explore more of it in this book.
But honestly, the characters are what kept me completely hooked. The relationships, the tension, the betrayals, and all the complicated emotions made it very easy to get invested in what was happening. There were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at the characters to just TALK to each other, but apparently that would have made things far too easy. 😂
The romance was another highlight for me. I loved the tension and the emotional stakes, and the way the relationships develop alongside all the larger fantasy elements kept me turning the pages.
There are plenty of twists and moments that had me questioning where the story was going next. Some parts felt a little slower for me, but once things started picking up, I was completely locked in.
And that ending? Yeah... I have questions.
I definitely need to know what happens next because Sarah Gallego clearly has no problem leaving me stressed and wanting more.
Overall, Throne of the Wolf Queen was an entertaining and immersive fantasy romance filled with gods, magic, complicated relationships, political intrigue, and plenty of drama. If you enjoyed the first book, this is definitely one you’ll want to pick up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Throne of the Wolf Queen by Sarah Gallego offers an intriguing fantasy premise filled with royal intrigue, magical conflicts, and a heroine determined to claim her place in a dangerous world. The story has all the ingredients of an epic fantasy adventure, with political tensions, shifting alliances, and the promise of high-stakes battles.
One of the novel's strengths is its ambitious world-building. Gallego creates a setting rich with lore and power struggles, giving readers a sense of a larger world beyond the immediate story. The central character is easy to root for, and her journey toward leadership and self-discovery provides some of the book's most compelling moments.
The story also delivers several exciting scenes and interesting twists that help maintain momentum. Fans of fantasy featuring queens, magical kingdoms, and court politics will likely find aspects of the narrative appealing, particularly the exploration of power, responsibility, and loyalty.
However, while the book has a strong foundation, it does not always reach the full potential of its ideas. Some character relationships could have been developed more deeply, making certain emotional moments less impactful than intended. The pacing can feel uneven, with slower sections that interrupt the flow of the story, and a few plot developments unfold in predictable ways.
Overall, Throne of the Wolf Queen is an enjoyable fantasy with an interesting concept, a capable heroine, and a richly imagined setting. While issues with pacing and character development keep it from standing out among the genre's best, it remains a solid three-star read for fans of fantasy adventures and royal intrigue.
One of the novel's strengths is its ambitious world-building. Gallego creates a setting rich with lore and power struggles, giving readers a sense of a larger world beyond the immediate story. The central character is easy to root for, and her journey toward leadership and self-discovery provides some of the book's most compelling moments.
The story also delivers several exciting scenes and interesting twists that help maintain momentum. Fans of fantasy featuring queens, magical kingdoms, and court politics will likely find aspects of the narrative appealing, particularly the exploration of power, responsibility, and loyalty.
However, while the book has a strong foundation, it does not always reach the full potential of its ideas. Some character relationships could have been developed more deeply, making certain emotional moments less impactful than intended. The pacing can feel uneven, with slower sections that interrupt the flow of the story, and a few plot developments unfold in predictable ways.
Overall, Throne of the Wolf Queen is an enjoyable fantasy with an interesting concept, a capable heroine, and a richly imagined setting. While issues with pacing and character development keep it from standing out among the genre's best, it remains a solid three-star read for fans of fantasy adventures and royal intrigue.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay… I LOVED this one! 🐺❤️
After that cliffhanger at the end of book one, I couldn’t wait to get back to Sorrow and Matthias, and book two definitely did not disappoint!
There was SO much happening in this one — more magic, more secrets, more drama, more angst and, of course, plenty of Sorrow and Matthias. 👀
I really loved watching their relationship develop throughout this book. They have so much history and baggage between them, so it wasn’t just an instant happily-ever-after. There were still plenty of emotional moments, tension and things they needed to work through, which made their relationship feel that much more satisfying.
Sorrow was such a great FMC too. She’s stubborn, strong and definitely not afraid to stand up for herself, and I loved seeing her grow into her powers even more.
And Pablo… honestly, I would read an entire book about Pablo. 😂🐺❤️ He is still the absolute BEST.
There were also plenty of twists and reveals that kept me guessing, along with the fantasy kingdoms, political drama and all the magic that made the first book so much fun.
Things I loved:
🖤 Sorrow & Matthias
🔥 The slow-burn romance
🥀 ALL the angst
🐺 Pablo!!!
✨ More magic
👑 Fantasy kingdoms & drama
⚔️ Action & adventure
👀 Secrets & twists
🫶 Found family
🌶️ A little spice
😭 Plenty of emotional moments
❤️ A satisfying conclusion
Overall, I really loved this duology! It had everything I want in a romantasy — romance, magic, drama, angst, secrets and characters I actually cared about.
If you enjoyed book one, definitely keep going because book two is worth it! 🐺❤️✨
Thank you to Second Sky & NetGalley for the opportunity to review this e-Arc!
After that cliffhanger at the end of book one, I couldn’t wait to get back to Sorrow and Matthias, and book two definitely did not disappoint!
There was SO much happening in this one — more magic, more secrets, more drama, more angst and, of course, plenty of Sorrow and Matthias. 👀
I really loved watching their relationship develop throughout this book. They have so much history and baggage between them, so it wasn’t just an instant happily-ever-after. There were still plenty of emotional moments, tension and things they needed to work through, which made their relationship feel that much more satisfying.
Sorrow was such a great FMC too. She’s stubborn, strong and definitely not afraid to stand up for herself, and I loved seeing her grow into her powers even more.
And Pablo… honestly, I would read an entire book about Pablo. 😂🐺❤️ He is still the absolute BEST.
There were also plenty of twists and reveals that kept me guessing, along with the fantasy kingdoms, political drama and all the magic that made the first book so much fun.
Things I loved:
🖤 Sorrow & Matthias
🔥 The slow-burn romance
🥀 ALL the angst
🐺 Pablo!!!
✨ More magic
👑 Fantasy kingdoms & drama
⚔️ Action & adventure
👀 Secrets & twists
🫶 Found family
🌶️ A little spice
😭 Plenty of emotional moments
❤️ A satisfying conclusion
Overall, I really loved this duology! It had everything I want in a romantasy — romance, magic, drama, angst, secrets and characters I actually cared about.
If you enjoyed book one, definitely keep going because book two is worth it! 🐺❤️✨
Thank you to Second Sky & NetGalley for the opportunity to review this e-Arc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“This heart. This rage. This… spirit. This is my Sorrow. My chaos. My altar.”
What a bittersweet ending to the Star-Crossed Gods duology. This was a great follow-up to Heart of the Wolf Queen, especially because of its higher stakes and fast pace. It picks up right about where the Heart of the Wolf Queen ends and we’re pretty much full force going forward. I liked the introduction of new characters in this one, particularly Hawk, as well as getting both Matthias and Sorrow’s POVs. What also worked really well for me in this one was our focus on the Gods and how they were weaved further into the story as well as how the book mostly took place outside of court politics and the plot kept moving throughout.
Book 2 also made me like Matthias and Sorrow even more. I find both of them to be refreshing characters because they’re not perfect. They’re stubborn, impatient, they make mistakes but ultimately they still try to be kind and fight for a better future, they keep going and trying their best with what they’ve been dealt with. I enjoyed how their relationship continues to develop and mature and how much they are willing to fight for each other. Mostly, I loved seeing how both of them were more accepting of themselves and grew to embrace who they truly are, especially Sorrow.
Overall, I think this is a great romantasy duology for those looking for a strong overarching plot, romance that doesn’t take away from the story, darker themes as well as disability and queer representation.
Thank you so much to Second Sky and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review ✨
What a bittersweet ending to the Star-Crossed Gods duology. This was a great follow-up to Heart of the Wolf Queen, especially because of its higher stakes and fast pace. It picks up right about where the Heart of the Wolf Queen ends and we’re pretty much full force going forward. I liked the introduction of new characters in this one, particularly Hawk, as well as getting both Matthias and Sorrow’s POVs. What also worked really well for me in this one was our focus on the Gods and how they were weaved further into the story as well as how the book mostly took place outside of court politics and the plot kept moving throughout.
Book 2 also made me like Matthias and Sorrow even more. I find both of them to be refreshing characters because they’re not perfect. They’re stubborn, impatient, they make mistakes but ultimately they still try to be kind and fight for a better future, they keep going and trying their best with what they’ve been dealt with. I enjoyed how their relationship continues to develop and mature and how much they are willing to fight for each other. Mostly, I loved seeing how both of them were more accepting of themselves and grew to embrace who they truly are, especially Sorrow.
Overall, I think this is a great romantasy duology for those looking for a strong overarching plot, romance that doesn’t take away from the story, darker themes as well as disability and queer representation.
Thank you so much to Second Sky and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review ✨
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Throne of the Wolf Queen was such a brilliant second half to this duology by @sarahgallwrites 🐺❤️
Sarah Gallego has done such an amazing job with this fantasy series. It has everything from action and political intrigue to magic and found family.
I also really loved how naturally the queer and disability representation was included. Neither felt like a plot point or something added just to tick a box, it was simply part of the characters and the world, which I thought was done so well.
Sorrow once again proved what a badass FMC she is, and she absolutely blew me away in those final few chapters! I was so happy that her wit and attitude carried over into book two because honestly, her sense of humour is right up my street!
I really enjoyed getting Matthias’ POV too. There is nothing more satisfying than a man realising he fucked up and then doing everything he can to make it right. 😂 And the way that man YEARNED for his wife?! Yeah... I ate that up. He is DOWN BAD and quite frankly, he deserves to be! 😏
Pablo is still my favourite though. Every time Sorrow wandered off without him I was rolling my eyes and yelling TAKE HIM WITH YOU! 😂 He is genuinely the bestest wolf sidekick ever and I love him. 🐺❤️
And then we have Hawk - I can't say too much without getting into spoiler territory, but he was such a brilliant addition. I loved his connection with Sorrow, and I found it absolutely hilarious that Pab was drawn to him immediately
Thank you so much @secondskybooks and @sarahgallego for approving my eARC request on NetGalley! I really, really enjoyed this duology and I'm definitely going to be keeping an eye out for whatever Sarah writes next. 🙏❤️
Sarah Gallego has done such an amazing job with this fantasy series. It has everything from action and political intrigue to magic and found family.
I also really loved how naturally the queer and disability representation was included. Neither felt like a plot point or something added just to tick a box, it was simply part of the characters and the world, which I thought was done so well.
Sorrow once again proved what a badass FMC she is, and she absolutely blew me away in those final few chapters! I was so happy that her wit and attitude carried over into book two because honestly, her sense of humour is right up my street!
I really enjoyed getting Matthias’ POV too. There is nothing more satisfying than a man realising he fucked up and then doing everything he can to make it right. 😂 And the way that man YEARNED for his wife?! Yeah... I ate that up. He is DOWN BAD and quite frankly, he deserves to be! 😏
Pablo is still my favourite though. Every time Sorrow wandered off without him I was rolling my eyes and yelling TAKE HIM WITH YOU! 😂 He is genuinely the bestest wolf sidekick ever and I love him. 🐺❤️
And then we have Hawk - I can't say too much without getting into spoiler territory, but he was such a brilliant addition. I loved his connection with Sorrow, and I found it absolutely hilarious that Pab was drawn to him immediately
Thank you so much @secondskybooks and @sarahgallego for approving my eARC request on NetGalley! I really, really enjoyed this duology and I'm definitely going to be keeping an eye out for whatever Sarah writes next. 🙏❤️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been dying to read this book since finishing the first book and it did not disappoint. My heart broke at the end of the first book with Matthias under the Empress' control with his magical tattoo and now Sorrow and Matthias are separated yet again. When the story starts Sorrow is not letting it keep her down, she is determined to defeat the empress, get Matthias back, and save the kingdoms.
So much happened in this book, it was fast paced and there were so many twists and turns and reveals that I was not bored for a second of it!!! I loved that Matthias and Sorrow never stopped fighting to be with each other and save each other. They were able to admit their faults and have honest conversations. The tension and angst to get them back together was amazing. i was hooked, I was invested, and while I was happy this was a duology, I could also do with more adventures from this world.
There were so many highlights for me but it is hard to share without spoilers... I can say that Hawk was an interesting one for me, I liked him but also wanted to punch him in the face. Matthias has so much loss in this book, my heart broke for him but I also love how he loved and fought for his family and found family. I had so many different emotions during this book but the epilogue mended my heart in the most beautiful way and while there were tears, it was the perfect ending to Matthias and Sorrow's story.
So much happened in this book, it was fast paced and there were so many twists and turns and reveals that I was not bored for a second of it!!! I loved that Matthias and Sorrow never stopped fighting to be with each other and save each other. They were able to admit their faults and have honest conversations. The tension and angst to get them back together was amazing. i was hooked, I was invested, and while I was happy this was a duology, I could also do with more adventures from this world.
There were so many highlights for me but it is hard to share without spoilers... I can say that Hawk was an interesting one for me, I liked him but also wanted to punch him in the face. Matthias has so much loss in this book, my heart broke for him but I also love how he loved and fought for his family and found family. I had so many different emotions during this book but the epilogue mended my heart in the most beautiful way and while there were tears, it was the perfect ending to Matthias and Sorrow's story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a beautiful conclusion to this duology. This book is filled with longing, love, and plot twists that include meddling Gods, and of course the goodest boy ever!
I love that the FMC Sorrow is incredibly strong-willed. Sometimes the characters can be weenies, but not Sorrow. She would do anything to save her King, and she only has half her sight!
I do feel that her powers weren't utilized enough in this book, It would have been fun to explore them a bit more.
In addition to Sorrow's point of view, we also get Matthias' which is a great addition since they're separated through much of the story. We get to delve a little deeper into his life and see his current struggles. And boy, is he struggling. He's battling the empress and a sickness while trying to get back to his love, Sorrow.
Everyone's favorite character, Pablo, is back and is protecting everyone like he was born to do. We're also introduced to Hawk, who keeps you entertained with funny banter.
I was entertained and kept turning the page to see what was going to happen next. I will say though, the epilogue broke me. There are happy endings, but sometimes even those endings can be consumed by sadness.
Gallego does a fabulous job building characters and an immersive world. While this is a duology, I feel there's still room for additional books.
Overall, this is a great series and I will keep recommending it.
I love that the FMC Sorrow is incredibly strong-willed. Sometimes the characters can be weenies, but not Sorrow. She would do anything to save her King, and she only has half her sight!
I do feel that her powers weren't utilized enough in this book, It would have been fun to explore them a bit more.
In addition to Sorrow's point of view, we also get Matthias' which is a great addition since they're separated through much of the story. We get to delve a little deeper into his life and see his current struggles. And boy, is he struggling. He's battling the empress and a sickness while trying to get back to his love, Sorrow.
Everyone's favorite character, Pablo, is back and is protecting everyone like he was born to do. We're also introduced to Hawk, who keeps you entertained with funny banter.
I was entertained and kept turning the page to see what was going to happen next. I will say though, the epilogue broke me. There are happy endings, but sometimes even those endings can be consumed by sadness.
Gallego does a fabulous job building characters and an immersive world. While this is a duology, I feel there's still room for additional books.
Overall, this is a great series and I will keep recommending it.
September 19, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and second sky books for the earc of this book. My reviews are entirely honest and my own. Receiving this has not influenced my views or my rating.
After the cliffhanger and book 1 I was desperate to get my hands on this book. Once again, I found this book to be very fast paced and one of those books that I did didn’t want to put down.
This book wrapped up the star cross gods duology perfectly.
It’s so hard to talk about this book without giving Spoilers so I will try my best as I hate it when Spoilers are given.
In this book, there is more action. There is more Spice and there is more of Pablo !!!!!
Again for me, Pablo was the best part of this story. I absolutely adorable wolves and Pablo is just amazing so I am pleased that we got more of him throughout this story
Once again, Sorrow and Matthias’s relationship was a huge part of this story. I loved watching sorrow Step more into her strength and the fact that she is such a strong willed FMC.
I absolutely loved some of the new characters we’ve got and you were introduced in this book to Hawk who’s banter is absolutely amazing
I found this book to be darker than book one and in this we get the gods and the Empress and this is where I have to keep quiet because I don’t want Spoilers
The only reason that I haven’t read this book hi was that I saw the Twist and turns coming however this duology is fantastic and if you love the romantasy genre but not huge series this may be the one for you
After the cliffhanger and book 1 I was desperate to get my hands on this book. Once again, I found this book to be very fast paced and one of those books that I did didn’t want to put down.
This book wrapped up the star cross gods duology perfectly.
It’s so hard to talk about this book without giving Spoilers so I will try my best as I hate it when Spoilers are given.
In this book, there is more action. There is more Spice and there is more of Pablo !!!!!
Again for me, Pablo was the best part of this story. I absolutely adorable wolves and Pablo is just amazing so I am pleased that we got more of him throughout this story
Once again, Sorrow and Matthias’s relationship was a huge part of this story. I loved watching sorrow Step more into her strength and the fact that she is such a strong willed FMC.
I absolutely loved some of the new characters we’ve got and you were introduced in this book to Hawk who’s banter is absolutely amazing
I found this book to be darker than book one and in this we get the gods and the Empress and this is where I have to keep quiet because I don’t want Spoilers
The only reason that I haven’t read this book hi was that I saw the Twist and turns coming however this duology is fantastic and if you love the romantasy genre but not huge series this may be the one for you
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝. 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩. 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡”
after really enjoying book one, i was so excited to dive into throne of the wolf queen, but unfortunately i didn’t love it as much as i was hoping
the story starts off quite slowly, and i found myself a little confused in the beginning. there wasn’t much of a recap, so it took me a while to remember what had happened in the previous book and settle back into the world
one thing i really enjoyed was getting both sorrow and matthias’ povs. since they’re apart for a lot of the story, it was nice to know exactly what each of them was experiencing rather than being left wondering
for me, the world-building felt quite limited this time around, and because of that i never felt fully immersed in the story. i also struggled to connect with the characters as much as i did in book one, which made some of the emotional moments fall a little flat
the ending wrapped up much quicker than i expected. i did love the epilogues and getting little glimpses into what happened after the final chapter, but i couldn’t help wishing there had been a bit more development before everything came to a close
overall, this was still an enjoyable read with some great moments, but it didn’t quite capture the magic that made the first book so much fun for me
after really enjoying book one, i was so excited to dive into throne of the wolf queen, but unfortunately i didn’t love it as much as i was hoping
the story starts off quite slowly, and i found myself a little confused in the beginning. there wasn’t much of a recap, so it took me a while to remember what had happened in the previous book and settle back into the world
one thing i really enjoyed was getting both sorrow and matthias’ povs. since they’re apart for a lot of the story, it was nice to know exactly what each of them was experiencing rather than being left wondering
for me, the world-building felt quite limited this time around, and because of that i never felt fully immersed in the story. i also struggled to connect with the characters as much as i did in book one, which made some of the emotional moments fall a little flat
the ending wrapped up much quicker than i expected. i did love the epilogues and getting little glimpses into what happened after the final chapter, but i couldn’t help wishing there had been a bit more development before everything came to a close
overall, this was still an enjoyable read with some great moments, but it didn’t quite capture the magic that made the first book so much fun for me
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