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Asteria
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Expected 27 May 26Asteria is dying. Its kingdoms are fractured, its people warring, its magic faltering—and anyone who could save it has vanished.
On Earth, Conor will do whatever it takes to keep her head down and her sister alive. She’s a shadow in her own life—until the night her classmate Jaime drags her into the woods and through a rift between worlds.
Trapped in the mysterious realm of Asteria, Conor has no choice but to flee with him through dark forests and even darker tunnels. As they race to evade prowling fexes and sentinels, she searches for something—anything—that could get her home.
She’s not the only one desperate to escape. In the sea’s shadowy depths, a thief and an assassin hunt for answers that might save their doomed city. Atop floating towers, a reluctant queen uncovers ancient secrets. As storms rise and dragons stir, she longs only to disappear. Across the wintry meadows below, an exiled heir fights to outwit an unsettling captor—all while plotting to reclaim her stolen throne.
Their paths are converging.
Something in Asteria is waking.
And nothing will ever be the same.
On Earth, Conor will do whatever it takes to keep her head down and her sister alive. She’s a shadow in her own life—until the night her classmate Jaime drags her into the woods and through a rift between worlds.
Trapped in the mysterious realm of Asteria, Conor has no choice but to flee with him through dark forests and even darker tunnels. As they race to evade prowling fexes and sentinels, she searches for something—anything—that could get her home.
She’s not the only one desperate to escape. In the sea’s shadowy depths, a thief and an assassin hunt for answers that might save their doomed city. Atop floating towers, a reluctant queen uncovers ancient secrets. As storms rise and dragons stir, she longs only to disappear. Across the wintry meadows below, an exiled heir fights to outwit an unsettling captor—all while plotting to reclaim her stolen throne.
Their paths are converging.
Something in Asteria is waking.
And nothing will ever be the same.
646 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 27, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Copy received from Author
Asteria is the kind of story that doesn’t just open a door to another world—it yanks you through it, heartbeat first, and dares you to keep up.
From the very first page, the world of Asteria feels like it’s unraveling in slow motion—fractured kingdoms, fading magic, danger coiled beneath every shadow. And right in the middle of it all is Conor, a heroine who doesn’t stride in with confidence and destiny blazing—she survives. She endures. She feels achingly real. Watching her get pulled from the quiet desperation of Earth into something far more perilous is like witnessing a spark catch in dry tinder.
The pacing? Relentless in the best way. Forest chases, shadowy tunnels, creatures lurking just out of sight—it all moves with this breathless urgency that mirrors Conor’s own desperation to get home. But what really elevates this book is its layered storytelling. Just when you think you’ve found your footing, the narrative shifts: a thief and assassin in the deep, a queen burdened by secrets, an exiled heir sharpening her vengeance. Each thread feels like a different storm brewing—and you know they’re going to collide.
And when they do? Magic.
The atmosphere is rich and cinematic—floating towers, storm-heavy skies, dragons stirring like old gods remembering their power. There’s a quiet melancholy woven through it all, like the world itself is holding its breath, waiting to either be saved or finally fall apart.
What truly makes this a five-star read is how everything balances: action with emotion, mystery with character depth, sprawling world-building with intimate stakes. Every perspective adds weight, not noise. Every reveal feels earned.
By the end, you’re left with that delicious, aching realization: something ancient has awakened—and you are absolutely not ready for what comes next.
If you love fantasy that feels vast yet personal, dangerous yet hauntingly beautiful, Asteria will wrap around your imagination and refuse to let go. ✨
Asteria is the kind of story that doesn’t just open a door to another world—it yanks you through it, heartbeat first, and dares you to keep up.
From the very first page, the world of Asteria feels like it’s unraveling in slow motion—fractured kingdoms, fading magic, danger coiled beneath every shadow. And right in the middle of it all is Conor, a heroine who doesn’t stride in with confidence and destiny blazing—she survives. She endures. She feels achingly real. Watching her get pulled from the quiet desperation of Earth into something far more perilous is like witnessing a spark catch in dry tinder.
The pacing? Relentless in the best way. Forest chases, shadowy tunnels, creatures lurking just out of sight—it all moves with this breathless urgency that mirrors Conor’s own desperation to get home. But what really elevates this book is its layered storytelling. Just when you think you’ve found your footing, the narrative shifts: a thief and assassin in the deep, a queen burdened by secrets, an exiled heir sharpening her vengeance. Each thread feels like a different storm brewing—and you know they’re going to collide.
And when they do? Magic.
The atmosphere is rich and cinematic—floating towers, storm-heavy skies, dragons stirring like old gods remembering their power. There’s a quiet melancholy woven through it all, like the world itself is holding its breath, waiting to either be saved or finally fall apart.
What truly makes this a five-star read is how everything balances: action with emotion, mystery with character depth, sprawling world-building with intimate stakes. Every perspective adds weight, not noise. Every reveal feels earned.
By the end, you’re left with that delicious, aching realization: something ancient has awakened—and you are absolutely not ready for what comes next.
If you love fantasy that feels vast yet personal, dangerous yet hauntingly beautiful, Asteria will wrap around your imagination and refuse to let go. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a highly unique book. There are four different stories each told by a different POV. There are multiple main characters who are living separate lives in Asteria until all of them merge in the second half of the book. So we are following four different plots and how their different lives are important in different ways which leads to them coming together. There are so many different elements in this book of which the various characters navigate. There’s magic and dragons and harbingers. There are monsters of all sorts living in the different lands. There is an underwater submarine from a city under the sea. The story keeps moving and Asteria (the realm the story takes place) and its different kingdoms fall into chaos where their realm is on the verge of collapse. As each of these people from the various kingdoms end up together in the city of Turpin they must try to work together to figure out how to save the realm from evil and restore the lands to peace. The relationships between all the characters were strained. They found it difficult to get along and trust each other. There many unpredictable plot twists at the end that I wondered when the next surprise twist would drop. That cliffhanger ending was a shock and sets up for book 2. The situation at the end is very messy with questions about where they end up and still no answers as to what they need to do to survive and save the realm. It’ll be interesting to see the new adventures in the next book. Half this book focuses on the individual stories with it all coming together near the end. Now that they’ve all found one another it’ll be up to them to try and work together. Looking forward to book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC.
Asteria will be released May 27, 2026.
The plot did a lot of heavy lifting to keep me reading this book.
As an epic fantasy with multiple POVs, some of the characters felt unnecessary. My first few notes as I was reading were mostly on this particular grievance. I also found some of the descriptive text to be unnecessary filler or forced romanticization of a moment.
That being said, I was deeply intrigued by the world building and, as I mentioned, pulled in by the plot. At this point in time, a lot of media (popular or otherwise) is an amalgamation of the author's favorites. We see this in marketing with summary phrasing like "this meets that" or "a retelling of...".
Asteria falls into this category as it heavily references various popular fantasy work either directly by name or in unmistakable mention and they tie directly into the plot.
Fortunately I pushed aside the irk of it and, ultimately, found it to be an interesting premise for the existence of world setting.
I felt annoyed, betrayed, and grief stricken. Sometimes alongside the characters, sometimes because of them.
The writing is well paced and the tone is mostly consistent. Each POV is easily identifiable in their voice and perspective.
I'm surprised to find myself in the predicament of having finished an arc...knowing there is a long wait to the second in the series.
I give this a 4.25 because, despite my trivial grievances I'm left desperate to find the answer to a single question: Jaime. What the F are you up to?
Asteria will be released May 27, 2026.
The plot did a lot of heavy lifting to keep me reading this book.
As an epic fantasy with multiple POVs, some of the characters felt unnecessary. My first few notes as I was reading were mostly on this particular grievance. I also found some of the descriptive text to be unnecessary filler or forced romanticization of a moment.
That being said, I was deeply intrigued by the world building and, as I mentioned, pulled in by the plot. At this point in time, a lot of media (popular or otherwise) is an amalgamation of the author's favorites. We see this in marketing with summary phrasing like "this meets that" or "a retelling of...".
Asteria falls into this category as it heavily references various popular fantasy work either directly by name or in unmistakable mention and they tie directly into the plot.
Fortunately I pushed aside the irk of it and, ultimately, found it to be an interesting premise for the existence of world setting.
I felt annoyed, betrayed, and grief stricken. Sometimes alongside the characters, sometimes because of them.
The writing is well paced and the tone is mostly consistent. Each POV is easily identifiable in their voice and perspective.
I'm surprised to find myself in the predicament of having finished an arc...knowing there is a long wait to the second in the series.
I give this a 4.25 because, despite my trivial grievances I'm left desperate to find the answer to a single question: Jaime. What the F are you up to?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into Asteria by Rachel Leigh already intrigued, the blurb promised mystery, magic, and another world; and I thought I knew what I was getting into. I was completely wrong in the best way possible. This book didn’t just meet my expectations, it absolutely blew them out of the water.
From the moment the story begins, you’re pulled into a world where a human is transported through a mysterious portal into a land filled with strange creatures, fading magic, and dragons. But what really sets this book apart is how layered everything feels. The magic system isn’t just there for spectacle; it’s fragile, shifting, and deeply tied to the world’s tension. The queen doesn’t feel like a queen in the traditional sense, which adds such an interesting dynamic, and the FMC’s sense of overwhelm makes everything feel grounded and real despite the fantastical setting.
Every chapter brings new twists, and just when you think you have a handle on what’s happening, the story shifts again in the most compelling way. There’s so much going on, but it never feels chaotic, just rich, immersive, and impossible to put down.
This was an incredible read, and I’m honestly a little heartbroken that it’s over… at least for now. I’ll be thinking about this world and these characters for a long time.
From the moment the story begins, you’re pulled into a world where a human is transported through a mysterious portal into a land filled with strange creatures, fading magic, and dragons. But what really sets this book apart is how layered everything feels. The magic system isn’t just there for spectacle; it’s fragile, shifting, and deeply tied to the world’s tension. The queen doesn’t feel like a queen in the traditional sense, which adds such an interesting dynamic, and the FMC’s sense of overwhelm makes everything feel grounded and real despite the fantastical setting.
Every chapter brings new twists, and just when you think you have a handle on what’s happening, the story shifts again in the most compelling way. There’s so much going on, but it never feels chaotic, just rich, immersive, and impossible to put down.
This was an incredible read, and I’m honestly a little heartbroken that it’s over… at least for now. I’ll be thinking about this world and these characters for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to Rachel Leigh for the advance copy and the opportunity to read this story!
I will admit that I struggled a little at first with all the different POVs in the beginning of the book. There was a lot happening right away, and it took me a little time to settle into the world and all the moving pieces. However, once everything started coming together, I was completely pulled in.
What really stood out to me were the strong female characters. Each one is dealing with her own insecurities and struggles while discovering what she is truly capable of. Watching their journeys unfold was one of my favorite parts of the story.
The world building became more immersive as the story progressed, and I found myself constantly wanting to know more about both the characters and the world around them. By the end, I was fully invested and left wanting to know where everyone’s story goes from here.
Definitely a five star read for me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Rachel Leigh for the ARC copy of her magical adventure that is Asteria.
The book drags you head first into the story and makes you want to not put it down. Each character has their own battles waring for your attention and has subtle nods to places you've been in other medias.
The author has the ability to hook you and make you want to know where you are going next. She paints pictures with her words and makes you feel intrigued by the thoughts in 4 POVs which is not easy to accomplish. Each time a new name popped up I was ready to know more and itching to see their stories merge.
I struggled a bit with the pacing of the story for a while, but if you love a good world building set up you will absolutely appreciate the care that went into this magical place.
I can't wait to see where the story goes from here.
The book drags you head first into the story and makes you want to not put it down. Each character has their own battles waring for your attention and has subtle nods to places you've been in other medias.
The author has the ability to hook you and make you want to know where you are going next. She paints pictures with her words and makes you feel intrigued by the thoughts in 4 POVs which is not easy to accomplish. Each time a new name popped up I was ready to know more and itching to see their stories merge.
I struggled a bit with the pacing of the story for a while, but if you love a good world building set up you will absolutely appreciate the care that went into this magical place.
I can't wait to see where the story goes from here.
Read
May 16, 2026This was my first ever ARC read and it did not disappoint. The world building is immaculate and I loved the integration of different worlds. The references of some of my favorite things brought a unique joy in the world of fantasy.
Although, I wish that there was more character development in the beginning as some of the POVs felt rushed and sometimes forced.
As the book went on and the multiple POVs came together, I could see how great this book would be. It ended in a way that I will not be able to stop thinking about “when book 2 will come out?”
Although, I wish that there was more character development in the beginning as some of the POVs felt rushed and sometimes forced.
As the book went on and the multiple POVs came together, I could see how great this book would be. It ended in a way that I will not be able to stop thinking about “when book 2 will come out?”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly had no idea what to expect with my first ARC read. I love how the book swept me away. The first chapter I felt hooked in the magical world and so many emotions. I definitely felt something was going to happen.
My favorite thing was how easy it was to connect to the main characters. I stayed up way too late and let my days absorb me with this one.
Rachel did amazing building the worlds! Highly recommend. If you love fantasy with romance, danger, and twists this is a must!!!!
My favorite thing was how easy it was to connect to the main characters. I stayed up way too late and let my days absorb me with this one.
Rachel did amazing building the worlds! Highly recommend. If you love fantasy with romance, danger, and twists this is a must!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received ARC copy of the book:
3.5 ⭐️
Book was overall pretty good but I have a hard time reading fantasy books with mention of real world items/places. It’s just not my thing and I think the book would be better if it stuck fully in the fantasy lane.
3.5 ⭐️
Book was overall pretty good but I have a hard time reading fantasy books with mention of real world items/places. It’s just not my thing and I think the book would be better if it stuck fully in the fantasy lane.
Review of advance copy
Asteria is a captivating and thoughtfully written story with strong characters, meaningful themes, and an engaging balance of humor, emotion, and tension. It’s both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with a depth that stays with you after the story ends.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Fantasy books are one of my favorite genres, and this book will not disappoint. Characters are compelling and their stories will keep you interested until the very end. Can't wait to see where they go from here!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book immensely! Each chapter unlocked more mystery and intriguing turns. The characters were well rounded and I found myself interested to see how each one’s story would be revealed. Definitely a page turner.
Want to Read
April 20, 2026This author still needs ~70 ARC readers!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was soooo good. I struggled a little in the beginning, trying to keep all the different POV together but I loved to story. I am sad this was an ARC cuz now I gotta wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me hook, line and sinker right from the beginning. Couldn't put it down once I started reading and I'm happy to say I can't wait for more from Rachel Leigh.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow!! This was such a good read! The characters were intriguing, and the chapters kept me wanting more!!! I need a part two ASAP!!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews