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This Shattered Star
Not yet published
Expected 6 Aug 26By the will of the gods, Eloise Fennhaven was born cursed. She is the only soul in the kingdom of Aedreath without a shred of magic, which leaves her with no other choice but to do as she’s told. With the eternal aurora filled night sky as her witness, she acts as her grandmother’s assassin, forever trapped in a manipulative, ruthless cycle.
So when the king names her as a competitor in his annual Starlight Trials, Eloise knows she’s been given a clear death sentence. But winning grants unrestricted access to the sacred Temple of Borealis, where unimaginable power lies hidden amongst nightmares and ruin. Power that could sever the chains of her curse. She could break the cycle.
As her every step forward is haunted by shadows she cannot seem to shake, Eloise is forced into an impossible alliance with the son of the king’s Second, and his lethal inner circle. Not only must she navigate the trials before her, but she must also elude the fire in his veins before it consumes them both. She despises him. He wants to save her life. An invisible thread constantly pulls them together, woven on the foundations of a secret he and his inner circle keep from her. Something ancient, and winged. A secret that has everything to do with Eloise’s curse, and what she was born to become.
So when the king names her as a competitor in his annual Starlight Trials, Eloise knows she’s been given a clear death sentence. But winning grants unrestricted access to the sacred Temple of Borealis, where unimaginable power lies hidden amongst nightmares and ruin. Power that could sever the chains of her curse. She could break the cycle.
As her every step forward is haunted by shadows she cannot seem to shake, Eloise is forced into an impossible alliance with the son of the king’s Second, and his lethal inner circle. Not only must she navigate the trials before her, but she must also elude the fire in his veins before it consumes them both. She despises him. He wants to save her life. An invisible thread constantly pulls them together, woven on the foundations of a secret he and his inner circle keep from her. Something ancient, and winged. A secret that has everything to do with Eloise’s curse, and what she was born to become.
- GenresFantasy
424 pages, Paperback
Expected publication August 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
July 31, 2026
My goodness, where was this little gem hiding!? Absolutely overstuffed with action, I didn’t feel like I could spare a second to catch my breath. It was one twist and turn after another.
Deadly female assassin MC - ✅
Competition run by a sadistic king to find a worthy winner of the Starlight Trials - ✅
FMC completely without magic in a magic-fueled society - ✅
Forced to compete in said trials and adopt allies she definitely did NOT ask for ✅
A reveal at the end that had my jaw on the freaking floor - ✅and MATE.
Five sun stars for this one.
This was just what I needed to shake up my reading at the end of July. I’m not sure my heart rate has come down yet from all the excitement in this one! You should definitely grab a copy of this one when it comes out Aug 6.
Thank you to Vivian Isabelle and Books and Bloom for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Deadly female assassin MC - ✅
Competition run by a sadistic king to find a worthy winner of the Starlight Trials - ✅
FMC completely without magic in a magic-fueled society - ✅
Forced to compete in said trials and adopt allies she definitely did NOT ask for ✅
A reveal at the end that had my jaw on the freaking floor - ✅and MATE.
Five sun stars for this one.
This was just what I needed to shake up my reading at the end of July. I’m not sure my heart rate has come down yet from all the excitement in this one! You should definitely grab a copy of this one when it comes out Aug 6.
Thank you to Vivian Isabelle and Books and Bloom for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
July 19, 2026
Arc review!
“I’d always admire the way blood shimmered under starlight.” I read the first line and was immediately hooked! This story was great. The banter between characters was something that I really enjoyed. I loved the descriptions they were creative without being nonsensical. This book was so great I was at the edge of my seat the whole time. And the plot twist???? I thought I knew where the book was headed but no I didn’t. I had whiplash in the best way possible. The cliffhanger as well. I need more stat!!!!
“I’d always admire the way blood shimmered under starlight.” I read the first line and was immediately hooked! This story was great. The banter between characters was something that I really enjoyed. I loved the descriptions they were creative without being nonsensical. This book was so great I was at the edge of my seat the whole time. And the plot twist???? I thought I knew where the book was headed but no I didn’t. I had whiplash in the best way possible. The cliffhanger as well. I need more stat!!!!
August 4, 2026
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 2 🌶️🌶️ (some spice; a couple scenes with few details, easily skippable)
Thank you Iris influencer society and Vivian Isabelle for sending me an eArc of This Shattered Star!
“I know you, Eloise. You are different. But being different does not equate to being weak. I'd say it makes you stronger than everyone else.”
Eloise is the only subject in the kingdom to have no powers-cursed by the gods. But she doesn’t need magic to be deadly. Then there’s Kodhan, the grumpy, brooding son of the kings Second. There’s so much tension between these two. They really try to hate each other (or at least Eloise did)… but the heart wants what it wants. And Kodhan definitely wants her. The yearning, especially at the end, is perfect.
I definitely enjoyed the trials aspect of the book and honestly wish we had seen more for them! I also really liked the plot twist towards the end. I honestly didn’t even see it coming. It seems everybody in Eloise’s life has been lying to her about something, and I can’t wait to see what happens now that she knows the truth. I’m very interested in how she’ll accept this reality compared to what she already knows, especially after that cliffhanger at the end.
“And there is nothing that you could ask of me that is too much. Anything you want, and I will do everything in my power to make it yours.”
Spice: 2 🌶️🌶️ (some spice; a couple scenes with few details, easily skippable)
Thank you Iris influencer society and Vivian Isabelle for sending me an eArc of This Shattered Star!
“I know you, Eloise. You are different. But being different does not equate to being weak. I'd say it makes you stronger than everyone else.”
Eloise is the only subject in the kingdom to have no powers-cursed by the gods. But she doesn’t need magic to be deadly. Then there’s Kodhan, the grumpy, brooding son of the kings Second. There’s so much tension between these two. They really try to hate each other (or at least Eloise did)… but the heart wants what it wants. And Kodhan definitely wants her. The yearning, especially at the end, is perfect.
I definitely enjoyed the trials aspect of the book and honestly wish we had seen more for them! I also really liked the plot twist towards the end. I honestly didn’t even see it coming. It seems everybody in Eloise’s life has been lying to her about something, and I can’t wait to see what happens now that she knows the truth. I’m very interested in how she’ll accept this reality compared to what she already knows, especially after that cliffhanger at the end.
“And there is nothing that you could ask of me that is too much. Anything you want, and I will do everything in my power to make it yours.”
June 28, 2026
Review of an Advanced Readers Copy
First of all, thank you for letting me read this book early.
I enjoyed all of this book, there was definitely a twist as the end that I didn't see coming.
But I did know that throughout the story we definitely were not being told the full truth. I think it was well written and constantly had me guessing.
I am very much looking forward to the next book hopefully next year!!
First of all, thank you for letting me read this book early.
I enjoyed all of this book, there was definitely a twist as the end that I didn't see coming.
But I did know that throughout the story we definitely were not being told the full truth. I think it was well written and constantly had me guessing.
I am very much looking forward to the next book hopefully next year!!
Review of advance copy
True Rating: 4.25
I want to start off by saying thank you to Iris Influencer Society, and Vivian Isabelle for sending a free digital copy of this book. I have decided to leave a review and these are my own honest thoughts.
Firstly I would like to say that I loved Vivian's writing, it was an absolute pleasure to read and was just so descriptive, I managed to read through this a lot quicker than I usually take to read a book. From the beginning we are thrust into the brutal world of Aedreath where the Kingdom is cast in constant darkness and being ruthless is the only way to survive. We get to see the loathing and complexity of Eloise and Kodhan's relationship from the start, and immediately we can see there is a deep underlying tension which I enjoyed so much. I loved watching them hate one another while still fighting that pull they feel towards each other. Just before the trials begin Kodhan forces her into an alliance with himself and his two closest allies. We get to see Eloise battle with this predicament because she is not used to having allies. Everyone in the Kingdom hates her and wants her dead, including the competitors, thus she is used to relying on herself for survival, which made it satisfying to watch her character development with learning how much to trust them as the trials progressed. The trials are deadly and we are quickly made aware of how much they are going to have to learn to work together if any of them wishes to survive the nightmare before them.
I came to like Brannon and especially Theia (Kodhan's allies) a lot more than I thought I would. The three of function well together as a unit and we are left trying to unravel the secrets they are hiding from Eloise. One thing I can say is Vivian did a really good job with portraying her characters because we really get to experience different emotions with them and none is more clear than the absolute anger that Diana, Eloise's grandmother, invokes. I absolutely HATED her, I felt so sorry for everything that Eloise had to go through with her, but it all made into the utter badass that she is. Another interesting aspect with the characters is Eloise's relationship with the King. There is clearly a lot of secrets and information hidden there and I hope that we get to delve deeper into it in the next book. That ending definitely also left a lot of questions that I can't wait to see the answers to, and I can't wait to see more of the dragons.
If you're looking for a romantasy that will keep you trying to work out the plot twists, secrets and complexities to all the different character then I would definitely suggest giving this book a read. If that hasn't convinced you then how about these tropes:
- Touch her and 💀
- Deadly Trials
- Elemental Magic
- Found Family
- Slow Burn
- Cursed FMC
- Forced Proximity
- Loathing to Lovers (I don't think of it as enemies because you can see they are slightly attracted to each other from the beginning)
I want to start off by saying thank you to Iris Influencer Society, and Vivian Isabelle for sending a free digital copy of this book. I have decided to leave a review and these are my own honest thoughts.
Firstly I would like to say that I loved Vivian's writing, it was an absolute pleasure to read and was just so descriptive, I managed to read through this a lot quicker than I usually take to read a book. From the beginning we are thrust into the brutal world of Aedreath where the Kingdom is cast in constant darkness and being ruthless is the only way to survive. We get to see the loathing and complexity of Eloise and Kodhan's relationship from the start, and immediately we can see there is a deep underlying tension which I enjoyed so much. I loved watching them hate one another while still fighting that pull they feel towards each other. Just before the trials begin Kodhan forces her into an alliance with himself and his two closest allies. We get to see Eloise battle with this predicament because she is not used to having allies. Everyone in the Kingdom hates her and wants her dead, including the competitors, thus she is used to relying on herself for survival, which made it satisfying to watch her character development with learning how much to trust them as the trials progressed. The trials are deadly and we are quickly made aware of how much they are going to have to learn to work together if any of them wishes to survive the nightmare before them.
I came to like Brannon and especially Theia (Kodhan's allies) a lot more than I thought I would. The three of function well together as a unit and we are left trying to unravel the secrets they are hiding from Eloise. One thing I can say is Vivian did a really good job with portraying her characters because we really get to experience different emotions with them and none is more clear than the absolute anger that Diana, Eloise's grandmother, invokes. I absolutely HATED her, I felt so sorry for everything that Eloise had to go through with her, but it all made into the utter badass that she is. Another interesting aspect with the characters is Eloise's relationship with the King. There is clearly a lot of secrets and information hidden there and I hope that we get to delve deeper into it in the next book. That ending definitely also left a lot of questions that I can't wait to see the answers to, and I can't wait to see more of the dragons.
If you're looking for a romantasy that will keep you trying to work out the plot twists, secrets and complexities to all the different character then I would definitely suggest giving this book a read. If that hasn't convinced you then how about these tropes:
- Touch her and 💀
- Deadly Trials
- Elemental Magic
- Found Family
- Slow Burn
- Cursed FMC
- Forced Proximity
- Loathing to Lovers (I don't think of it as enemies because you can see they are slightly attracted to each other from the beginning)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a book full of secrets and betrayals hidden behind duty. Of lonliness and distrust from trying to protect her heart. But also of protectionism and silent devotion from first sight diguised as hate and angst.
Those last few chapters i was not expecting what came at all but absolutely loved them, and the cliff your left suspended on is tantalising.
Eloise and Kodhan's hateful flirting under the guise of enemies is really fun to read, its cheeky and a little dark but it has me feeling happy and giddy because you know its going to be great when they do take a leap. He pushes her and uses the hate she hides behind to challenge her without making her aware. Its exciting and heartwarming as the tension builds because you never know if they will actually take that step.
Both main side characters we're so lovable, they brought a wholesome-ness to the morbid tension of the challanges the trials brought. Their devotion and care was heart aching at a certain point. They bicker so much, but the love they have for each other and the group as a whole is clear to see. The banter is just so good that it had me smiling and laughing throughout their scenes.
The world that was created wasn't made apparent from the start, but it built on the experience and interactions throughout the book, which i enjoyed. It was never too heavy with narration just for the sake of getting context over with. Vivian context drops through character interaction instead. I did have many unanswered questions and feeling like bits were missing around the middle. However, they all got resolved towards the end, so i can't fault it at all. The magic system was unique and somewhat historically dystopian.
Quotes i loved.
♡
The dedication at the start i really loved
♡
He raised a good point. But i would've preferred throwing myself over the edge of the platform before admitting that out loud.
♡
“I am mad. You drive me mad. Your presence pulls the very essence of common sense from my head. Reduces my ability to think properly until every logical thought becomes an incoherent muddle of nothing.”
♡
“Now, books are more of a silent comfort. Though I must admit that I tend to reach for novels I can lose myself in. Pretend to be part of a world far better than this one. And honestly, make-believe creatures oftentimes make for better companions than real people.”
♡
“I will find you, little viper. Always.”
“Swear it.”
“I swear it on my life.”
Those last few chapters i was not expecting what came at all but absolutely loved them, and the cliff your left suspended on is tantalising.
Eloise and Kodhan's hateful flirting under the guise of enemies is really fun to read, its cheeky and a little dark but it has me feeling happy and giddy because you know its going to be great when they do take a leap. He pushes her and uses the hate she hides behind to challenge her without making her aware. Its exciting and heartwarming as the tension builds because you never know if they will actually take that step.
Both main side characters we're so lovable, they brought a wholesome-ness to the morbid tension of the challanges the trials brought. Their devotion and care was heart aching at a certain point. They bicker so much, but the love they have for each other and the group as a whole is clear to see. The banter is just so good that it had me smiling and laughing throughout their scenes.
The world that was created wasn't made apparent from the start, but it built on the experience and interactions throughout the book, which i enjoyed. It was never too heavy with narration just for the sake of getting context over with. Vivian context drops through character interaction instead. I did have many unanswered questions and feeling like bits were missing around the middle. However, they all got resolved towards the end, so i can't fault it at all. The magic system was unique and somewhat historically dystopian.
Quotes i loved.
♡
The dedication at the start i really loved
♡
He raised a good point. But i would've preferred throwing myself over the edge of the platform before admitting that out loud.
♡
“I am mad. You drive me mad. Your presence pulls the very essence of common sense from my head. Reduces my ability to think properly until every logical thought becomes an incoherent muddle of nothing.”
♡
“Now, books are more of a silent comfort. Though I must admit that I tend to reach for novels I can lose myself in. Pretend to be part of a world far better than this one. And honestly, make-believe creatures oftentimes make for better companions than real people.”
♡
“I will find you, little viper. Always.”
“Swear it.”
“I swear it on my life.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, a massive thank you to Iris Influencer Society and Vivian Isabelle for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. When I first applied for it I was really hoping to get approved because, based on everything the author had shared, I had a feeling I’d love it. Safe to say, my expectations weren't just met, they were completely shattered, in the best way possible !! 💞
Tropes: enemies to lovers, slow burn, forced proximity, deadly magical trials, touch her and d!e, found family, morally gray characters, shadow & fire wielding, elemental magic, curses, fast pace, witty bander, permanent aura filled night sky, dragon shifters
This Shattered Star follows Eloise Fennhaven, the only one in the kingdom of Aedreath born without magic. Cursed and trapped in a ruthless cycle as her grandmotherr’s assassin, her life takes a turn when the King names her a competitor in the deadly Starlight Trials. Winning grants access to the sacred Temple of Borealis, where an unimaginable power that could break her curse once and for all resides. To survive the trials, she’s forced into an uneasy alliance with Kodhan, the son of the King’s Second, and his lethal inner circle.
Honestly? I am completely, utterly obsessed. From the very start, Eloise and Kodhan got me literally giggling and kicking my feet. The vibes were just immaculate throughout the entire read, if only you could see my highlights and notes😮💨 Their chemistry is off the charts, and the banter between them was perfection. His yearning and protectiveness over Eloise were absolutely delicious to read and the tension was so so well done. On top of the incredible romance, the found family dynamic with Kodhan’s inner circle stole my heart. I feel so deeply attached to all of these characters already. The book is so well written, I’m obsessed with the world building, it kept me hooked from start to finish. I can’t say too much without giving away spoilers but the final plot twist was absolutely insane. My mind is blown, and I'm already dying to know what happens next. I absolutely can’t wait to read TSS 2! The wait is sure going to be worth it.
If you love deadly trials, incredible found family, and top tier enemies to lovers romance, you’ll love This Shattered Star! 💜
“𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘐 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘌𝘭𝘰𝘪𝘴𝘦?” 𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘥, 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩.”
Pub Date: Aug 6 2026
Tropes: enemies to lovers, slow burn, forced proximity, deadly magical trials, touch her and d!e, found family, morally gray characters, shadow & fire wielding, elemental magic, curses, fast pace, witty bander, permanent aura filled night sky, dragon shifters
This Shattered Star follows Eloise Fennhaven, the only one in the kingdom of Aedreath born without magic. Cursed and trapped in a ruthless cycle as her grandmotherr’s assassin, her life takes a turn when the King names her a competitor in the deadly Starlight Trials. Winning grants access to the sacred Temple of Borealis, where an unimaginable power that could break her curse once and for all resides. To survive the trials, she’s forced into an uneasy alliance with Kodhan, the son of the King’s Second, and his lethal inner circle.
Honestly? I am completely, utterly obsessed. From the very start, Eloise and Kodhan got me literally giggling and kicking my feet. The vibes were just immaculate throughout the entire read, if only you could see my highlights and notes😮💨 Their chemistry is off the charts, and the banter between them was perfection. His yearning and protectiveness over Eloise were absolutely delicious to read and the tension was so so well done. On top of the incredible romance, the found family dynamic with Kodhan’s inner circle stole my heart. I feel so deeply attached to all of these characters already. The book is so well written, I’m obsessed with the world building, it kept me hooked from start to finish. I can’t say too much without giving away spoilers but the final plot twist was absolutely insane. My mind is blown, and I'm already dying to know what happens next. I absolutely can’t wait to read TSS 2! The wait is sure going to be worth it.
If you love deadly trials, incredible found family, and top tier enemies to lovers romance, you’ll love This Shattered Star! 💜
“𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘐 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘌𝘭𝘰𝘪𝘴𝘦?” 𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘥, 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩.”
Pub Date: Aug 6 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
⋆｡°✩ ᴀʀᴄ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ✩°｡⋆
ᴛɪᴛʟᴇ : This Shattered Star
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : Vivian Isabelle
ꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅ: E-Book
ᴘᴀɢᴇ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ: 371
ᴀʀᴄ ꜱᴜᴘᴘʟɪᴇʀ : IRIS Influencer Society
ᴘᴜʙʟɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴅᴀᴛᴇ: 6th August 2026
Ok ok ok I LOVED THIS ONEEE! This was a fast paced book and damn did I enjoy that! Sometime a book can go so slow I start to loose focus’s a little but with this one it was BAM ACTION! 🤣
After abit of a reading slump this was exactly what I needed, I loved the idea of the FMC being the only non magic person in a magic filled world, it’s more common to see it the other way round!
Vivian’s writing was lovely to read, it flowed really well and I was enjoying all aspects from characters chatting to the descriptions.
Eloise was thrust into a deadly trails that could give the winner immense power. She was nominated by the King who has this weird complex relationship with her. He treasures her for being someone everyone hates.
Just before the trails the King starts to flip the script on what Eloise thought would happen and instead of needing to fight alone she needs allies. In come Kodhan, Fire Wielder and second in commands son.
From the start those two have this underlining tension that you can feel as the reader. She becomes a reluctant ally to him and even tho she hates him, he always seems to be there for her.
She also allies herself with Brannon and Theia! Those two are great, I love their banter and the balance they brought to the group! I really enjoy friend characters in a book!
Those trails were crazy and deadly and it didn’t help the king changing things up randomly! But I love the surprise element it brought to the book!
Now of course there was a point I wanted to channel Kodhan’s fire and set my kindle aflame buuuuut that was rectified 🤣🤣
And then the PLOT TWIST?! Holllly moly! Trying not to spoil hahaha but Wtf! 🤣 I want book 2 asap!!!
ᴛɪᴛʟᴇ : This Shattered Star
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : Vivian Isabelle
ꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅ: E-Book
ᴘᴀɢᴇ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ: 371
ᴀʀᴄ ꜱᴜᴘᴘʟɪᴇʀ : IRIS Influencer Society
ᴘᴜʙʟɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴅᴀᴛᴇ: 6th August 2026
Ok ok ok I LOVED THIS ONEEE! This was a fast paced book and damn did I enjoy that! Sometime a book can go so slow I start to loose focus’s a little but with this one it was BAM ACTION! 🤣
After abit of a reading slump this was exactly what I needed, I loved the idea of the FMC being the only non magic person in a magic filled world, it’s more common to see it the other way round!
Vivian’s writing was lovely to read, it flowed really well and I was enjoying all aspects from characters chatting to the descriptions.
Eloise was thrust into a deadly trails that could give the winner immense power. She was nominated by the King who has this weird complex relationship with her. He treasures her for being someone everyone hates.
Just before the trails the King starts to flip the script on what Eloise thought would happen and instead of needing to fight alone she needs allies. In come Kodhan, Fire Wielder and second in commands son.
From the start those two have this underlining tension that you can feel as the reader. She becomes a reluctant ally to him and even tho she hates him, he always seems to be there for her.
She also allies herself with Brannon and Theia! Those two are great, I love their banter and the balance they brought to the group! I really enjoy friend characters in a book!
Those trails were crazy and deadly and it didn’t help the king changing things up randomly! But I love the surprise element it brought to the book!
Now of course there was a point I wanted to channel Kodhan’s fire and set my kindle aflame buuuuut that was rectified 🤣🤣
And then the PLOT TWIST?! Holllly moly! Trying not to spoil hahaha but Wtf! 🤣 I want book 2 asap!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a book! I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved this book. I was lucky enough to be choosen as part of the ARC team for 'This Shattered Star' and I will be forever grateful for that.
For those that enjoy fantasy books with elemental magic, magical trials, an enimies-to-allies-to-lovers romance, high stakes throughout and secrets will definitely love this book.
Aedreath is a very unique kingdom and I loved reading all about it. Eloise is a very interesting character and I really enjoyed reading this book from her POV. The way her character is developed throughout the book and finding out little pieces of her history was done incredibly well. Seeing the way she viewed Kodhan throughout the book was very well written and seeing the yearning from him through her eyes was swoon worthy and how he did everything to protect her through the trials.
Theia and Brannon where great side characters that added a lot to the book and I'm very excited to see more of them in future books. Their dynamic with each other was a breath of fresh air compared with what you see in other books. Theia is definitely my favourite by far.
The ending!!!! That was so crazy and definitely was not expecting that plot twist! Definitely not one that people would easily be able to guess or figure out before the reveal. I did have some suspicions about the King and I'm intrigued to learn more about the relationship between him and Eloise.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this series coming out and future books afterwards from Vivian Isabelle. Brilliant writing and storytelling.
For those that enjoy fantasy books with elemental magic, magical trials, an enimies-to-allies-to-lovers romance, high stakes throughout and secrets will definitely love this book.
Aedreath is a very unique kingdom and I loved reading all about it. Eloise is a very interesting character and I really enjoyed reading this book from her POV. The way her character is developed throughout the book and finding out little pieces of her history was done incredibly well. Seeing the way she viewed Kodhan throughout the book was very well written and seeing the yearning from him through her eyes was swoon worthy and how he did everything to protect her through the trials.
Theia and Brannon where great side characters that added a lot to the book and I'm very excited to see more of them in future books. Their dynamic with each other was a breath of fresh air compared with what you see in other books. Theia is definitely my favourite by far.
The ending!!!! That was so crazy and definitely was not expecting that plot twist! Definitely not one that people would easily be able to guess or figure out before the reveal. I did have some suspicions about the King and I'm intrigued to learn more about the relationship between him and Eloise.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this series coming out and future books afterwards from Vivian Isabelle. Brilliant writing and storytelling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, thank you so much to Vivian Isabelle and Iris Influencer Society for allowing me an early arc read for an honest review.
This Shattered Star by Vivian Isabelle was so good. It was so well written and I really feel it gave a different approach to a fantasy romance book with trials. The story was unique and different and I liked that. This story follows Eloise, who is a cursed and magicless, in a kingdom of magical people. She is forced into the Starlight trials in hopes of winning and claiming magic and breaking her curse. Even though her chances of winning are very slim. Eloise must navigate herself in the trials with no magic. Now, the king has decided to change the rules where you must select an ally and two winners will be selected. Now Eloise must team up with her enemy, Kodhan and trust him enough to win. I really enjoyed the building tension between Eloise and Kodhan and I also really enjoyed her history with King Maverick and trying to figure out what was happening or not happening between them. Be ready for a twist at the end of the book that will have you needing the next book right away. I'm looking forward to book two and highly recommend this 5 star read!
If you are into, Elemental Magic, curses, trials, enemies to lovers, secret keeping, night covered kingdom, little bits of dragon in there, touch her and bye bye and fire wielding MMC, then you need to add this one to your TBR. I'm looking forward to book two and highly recommend this 5 star read!
This Shattered Star by Vivian Isabelle was so good. It was so well written and I really feel it gave a different approach to a fantasy romance book with trials. The story was unique and different and I liked that. This story follows Eloise, who is a cursed and magicless, in a kingdom of magical people. She is forced into the Starlight trials in hopes of winning and claiming magic and breaking her curse. Even though her chances of winning are very slim. Eloise must navigate herself in the trials with no magic. Now, the king has decided to change the rules where you must select an ally and two winners will be selected. Now Eloise must team up with her enemy, Kodhan and trust him enough to win. I really enjoyed the building tension between Eloise and Kodhan and I also really enjoyed her history with King Maverick and trying to figure out what was happening or not happening between them. Be ready for a twist at the end of the book that will have you needing the next book right away. I'm looking forward to book two and highly recommend this 5 star read!
If you are into, Elemental Magic, curses, trials, enemies to lovers, secret keeping, night covered kingdom, little bits of dragon in there, touch her and bye bye and fire wielding MMC, then you need to add this one to your TBR. I'm looking forward to book two and highly recommend this 5 star read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, I’d like to give a HUGE thank you to the author for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!! I loved this book!
I can’t post spoilers (it goes against my beliefs) but the ending of this book had me in happy tears. I can not express how much I loved this ending even as it left the space open for so many things to happen in the next book. I will be waiting with bated breath for the next book!!
The characters were also all so interesting that even characters I loved to hate had me invested. I was committed to each of their stories and goodness I loved them all. Hate to love them, or love to hate them, these characters were well developed and all necessary to the story (even the deaths).
There are dragons with a very complicated backstory, a twisted royal with a complex heart, a man with fire powers, and a cursed FMC, and all in an intoxicatingly good plot. It was well developed, well paced, I didn’t feel like it was ever too much action or too much relaxing at any point. Even when there’s a bit of an info dump it’s given in a way where it doesn’t feel overwhelming. It’s just a part of the story.
The friendships she makes through the story had me invested a chokehold, I was so excited to watch her make friends during this trial for power. Think Hunger Games style fighting but with magic. IT WAS SO GOOD!!!
If you’ve ever wanted to read Mare, Maven and Cal’s story in a world with dragons and where you don’t want to slap all of them upside the head every five pages, you’ll love this book!
I can’t post spoilers (it goes against my beliefs) but the ending of this book had me in happy tears. I can not express how much I loved this ending even as it left the space open for so many things to happen in the next book. I will be waiting with bated breath for the next book!!
The characters were also all so interesting that even characters I loved to hate had me invested. I was committed to each of their stories and goodness I loved them all. Hate to love them, or love to hate them, these characters were well developed and all necessary to the story (even the deaths).
There are dragons with a very complicated backstory, a twisted royal with a complex heart, a man with fire powers, and a cursed FMC, and all in an intoxicatingly good plot. It was well developed, well paced, I didn’t feel like it was ever too much action or too much relaxing at any point. Even when there’s a bit of an info dump it’s given in a way where it doesn’t feel overwhelming. It’s just a part of the story.
The friendships she makes through the story had me invested a chokehold, I was so excited to watch her make friends during this trial for power. Think Hunger Games style fighting but with magic. IT WAS SO GOOD!!!
If you’ve ever wanted to read Mare, Maven and Cal’s story in a world with dragons and where you don’t want to slap all of them upside the head every five pages, you’ll love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝖗𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 𝖔𝖋 𝖆𝖉𝖛𝖆𝖓𝖈𝖊𝖉 𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖊𝖗𝖘 𝖈𝖔𝖕𝖞
Thank you for the opportunity to review this amazing book. All thoughts are my own.
I will start by listing all the things that spoke out to me in this book. I loved how fierce all the characters were in their own unique way. The FMC, Eloise, especially was so easy to root for. I loved how she rose to every challenge with such ferocity and determination despite the inner turmoil and battles she faced. The majority of the time, I could relate to her, and that's something that I love about a book. She was hard-headed, brutal in her strikes, and wanted to be free of the curse that bound her.
The MMC, Kodhan, was fire-wielding and broody. I enjoyed how his character and personality was portrayed. How his lethal personality switched to caring and soft for Eloise. The side characters, Brannon and Theia, were really easy to love. I would have loved to see their POVs as well. The found family banter was hilarious and I found myself grinning alongside them.
There did come a point where I wanted to throw the book because WHAT THE HELL (ifykyk) but it got saved (yay). The trials were deadly and the description so perfect it felt as if I was watching a movie.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would 100% recommend to people who would like a celestial touch in fantasy.
Tropes:
- found family, slow burn, forced proximity, deadly magical trials, witty banter, curses, fast pace, dragon shifters, touch her and die, morally grey characters.
"Little viper.."
"Bastard.."
Thank you for the opportunity to review this amazing book. All thoughts are my own.
I will start by listing all the things that spoke out to me in this book. I loved how fierce all the characters were in their own unique way. The FMC, Eloise, especially was so easy to root for. I loved how she rose to every challenge with such ferocity and determination despite the inner turmoil and battles she faced. The majority of the time, I could relate to her, and that's something that I love about a book. She was hard-headed, brutal in her strikes, and wanted to be free of the curse that bound her.
The MMC, Kodhan, was fire-wielding and broody. I enjoyed how his character and personality was portrayed. How his lethal personality switched to caring and soft for Eloise. The side characters, Brannon and Theia, were really easy to love. I would have loved to see their POVs as well. The found family banter was hilarious and I found myself grinning alongside them.
There did come a point where I wanted to throw the book because WHAT THE HELL (ifykyk) but it got saved (yay). The trials were deadly and the description so perfect it felt as if I was watching a movie.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would 100% recommend to people who would like a celestial touch in fantasy.
Tropes:
- found family, slow burn, forced proximity, deadly magical trials, witty banter, curses, fast pace, dragon shifters, touch her and die, morally grey characters.
"Little viper.."
"Bastard.."
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Thank you, Vivian Isabelle and IRIS Influencers for the eARC in return for an honest review.
4.25⭐️ 1🌶️
What To Expect:
🔮Elemental magic
⭐️Enemies to lovers
⚔️Deadly trials
💫Reluctant allies
🖤Slow burn
🥀Touch her and 💀
💞Forced proximity
🔥Fire-wielding MMC
💫Cursed FMC
💫Night veiled kingdom
🐉A sprinkle of dragons 🤏🏻✨
Eloise has been selected by King Merrick to be a part of the Star Trials, she is your typical FMC, cursed with no magic and doomed to die in the deadly trials. Before the Trials are set to begin, the King adds a new rule - you must choose an ally for the trials-there will be two winners this year.
Kodhan, is a fire-wielder 🔥 he is broody, grumpy, handsome, hated by those around him but yearns for Eloise, why do you ask? You will have to read to answer that question. He does everything he can to protect her throughout the trials.
Eloise's development throughout the book is steady and very dynamic, you learn more about her and peel back her layers to see what makes her tick.
Theia and Brannon, I hope we get to see more of them in future books as you can feel there is a lot to be discovered and the budding friendship between Eloise and Theia.
The secrets, lies and betrayals, keep you invested and then the twist at the end, as the story begins to unravel, questions begin to be answered but leave you with more and now I cannot wait for book 2.
4.25⭐️ 1🌶️
What To Expect:
🔮Elemental magic
⭐️Enemies to lovers
⚔️Deadly trials
💫Reluctant allies
🖤Slow burn
🥀Touch her and 💀
💞Forced proximity
🔥Fire-wielding MMC
💫Cursed FMC
💫Night veiled kingdom
🐉A sprinkle of dragons 🤏🏻✨
Eloise has been selected by King Merrick to be a part of the Star Trials, she is your typical FMC, cursed with no magic and doomed to die in the deadly trials. Before the Trials are set to begin, the King adds a new rule - you must choose an ally for the trials-there will be two winners this year.
Kodhan, is a fire-wielder 🔥 he is broody, grumpy, handsome, hated by those around him but yearns for Eloise, why do you ask? You will have to read to answer that question. He does everything he can to protect her throughout the trials.
Eloise's development throughout the book is steady and very dynamic, you learn more about her and peel back her layers to see what makes her tick.
Theia and Brannon, I hope we get to see more of them in future books as you can feel there is a lot to be discovered and the budding friendship between Eloise and Theia.
The secrets, lies and betrayals, keep you invested and then the twist at the end, as the story begins to unravel, questions begin to be answered but leave you with more and now I cannot wait for book 2.
July 12, 2026
An enemies to lovers romance with the FMC caught up in a love triangle between two men who would do anything to keep her for themselves.
You follow the FMC, who’s spent her life as the only one in her kingdom without magic, and after her parents death when she was young, her grandmother forced her to train and become an assassin to take care of her political opponents in order to earn her keep. But when a deadly competition comes around hosted by the king that could grant her powers, she is selected to join it and compete in the challenges, only this year the goal is to win with help from allies, and who would want the one girl without powers on their team. In comes the MMC, who seems to have a chip on his shoulder against her but offers to team up with her and his two friends in order to make it through, especially when most of the other competitors would love to see them both dead.
I really enjoyed the unlikely allies to somewhat friends to eventual lovers the FMC followed in this book. There was so much tension building between them and there really is a thin line between love and hate. The trials and completion made for an exciting back drop for the story to unfold and of course the king meddling within the trials led to even more chaos. There was some reveals near the end that had me shocked and I cannot wait to see where the author takes this story next! My rating 4.2/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC, who’s spent her life as the only one in her kingdom without magic, and after her parents death when she was young, her grandmother forced her to train and become an assassin to take care of her political opponents in order to earn her keep. But when a deadly competition comes around hosted by the king that could grant her powers, she is selected to join it and compete in the challenges, only this year the goal is to win with help from allies, and who would want the one girl without powers on their team. In comes the MMC, who seems to have a chip on his shoulder against her but offers to team up with her and his two friends in order to make it through, especially when most of the other competitors would love to see them both dead.
I really enjoyed the unlikely allies to somewhat friends to eventual lovers the FMC followed in this book. There was so much tension building between them and there really is a thin line between love and hate. The trials and completion made for an exciting back drop for the story to unfold and of course the king meddling within the trials led to even more chaos. There was some reveals near the end that had me shocked and I cannot wait to see where the author takes this story next! My rating 4.2/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Thank you for choosing me to be a part of the ARC team of "THIS SHATTERED STAR".
First of all, this book was just what I needed to get me out of my reading slump. This was such a unique story that was written in a way that spoke to me.
Eloise Fennhaven is cursed by the 'gods'to be the only powerless soul in the kingdom of Aedreath. So when the king forced her into the death trap of a trial, she has no choice but to participate and win to break her curse, but she has to ally with the son of the king's second and his inner circle; what could go wrong?
Eloise, our FMC, seems like the typically powerless girl who risks it all to find purpose in her existence, but is she really that typically FMC?
Kodhan, the fire wielder MMC, who hides behind vicious words and broodiness, would protect Eloise at all costs, who wants only one thing, and has been the only thing he wanted for years...........
Theia and Brannon never felt like just side characters; they are a huge part of Eloise's and Kodhan's lives, and also a huge part of this story.
The twisted secrets will have your mind turning forward and backward, with a plot twist so good, it will be worth the effort your brain put in to trying to figure the whole thing out.
While some questions were answered, many more remained unanswered, and many more new questions appeared. I cannot wait for the second book to arrive with much-needed answers.
First of all, this book was just what I needed to get me out of my reading slump. This was such a unique story that was written in a way that spoke to me.
Eloise Fennhaven is cursed by the 'gods'to be the only powerless soul in the kingdom of Aedreath. So when the king forced her into the death trap of a trial, she has no choice but to participate and win to break her curse, but she has to ally with the son of the king's second and his inner circle; what could go wrong?
Eloise, our FMC, seems like the typically powerless girl who risks it all to find purpose in her existence, but is she really that typically FMC?
Kodhan, the fire wielder MMC, who hides behind vicious words and broodiness, would protect Eloise at all costs, who wants only one thing, and has been the only thing he wanted for years...........
Theia and Brannon never felt like just side characters; they are a huge part of Eloise's and Kodhan's lives, and also a huge part of this story.
The twisted secrets will have your mind turning forward and backward, with a plot twist so good, it will be worth the effort your brain put in to trying to figure the whole thing out.
While some questions were answered, many more remained unanswered, and many more new questions appeared. I cannot wait for the second book to arrive with much-needed answers.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This book pulled me in right from the start and did not let go. Vivian's writing was incredibly immersive, making it so easy to get lost in the dark and brutal world of Aedreath. I flew through this one much faster than I expected because I always needed to know what would happen next.
Eloise and Kodhan's relationship was one of my favorite parts of the story. The tension between them was so good, and I loved watching them fight their undeniable attraction while being forced to work together through the deadly trials. Eloise's growth throughout the book was especially satisfying as she slowly learned to trust others after spending so long relying only on herself.
I also ended up loving Brannon and Theia far more than I expected, and the dynamic between the group had me constantly questioning who was hiding what. And can we talk about Diana? I have rarely disliked a character so much. 😤 Everything Eloise endured made me root for her even harder.
That ending left me with so many questions, and I already need the next book because I have to know what happens next—especially when it comes to the dragons. 🐉✨
If you love romantasy filled with deadly trials, secrets, twists, and a deliciously slow-burn romance, definitely add this one to your TBR.
Tropes:
🐉 Deadly Trials
✨ Elemental Magic
❤️ Slow Burn
🏰 Forced Proximity
🖤 Cursed FMC
👑 Found Family
🔥 Touch Her and 💀
💫 Loathing to Lovers
Thanks to IRIS influencer Society and the author for the ARC.
Eloise and Kodhan's relationship was one of my favorite parts of the story. The tension between them was so good, and I loved watching them fight their undeniable attraction while being forced to work together through the deadly trials. Eloise's growth throughout the book was especially satisfying as she slowly learned to trust others after spending so long relying only on herself.
I also ended up loving Brannon and Theia far more than I expected, and the dynamic between the group had me constantly questioning who was hiding what. And can we talk about Diana? I have rarely disliked a character so much. 😤 Everything Eloise endured made me root for her even harder.
That ending left me with so many questions, and I already need the next book because I have to know what happens next—especially when it comes to the dragons. 🐉✨
If you love romantasy filled with deadly trials, secrets, twists, and a deliciously slow-burn romance, definitely add this one to your TBR.
Tropes:
🐉 Deadly Trials
✨ Elemental Magic
❤️ Slow Burn
🏰 Forced Proximity
🖤 Cursed FMC
👑 Found Family
🔥 Touch Her and 💀
💫 Loathing to Lovers
Thanks to IRIS influencer Society and the author for the ARC.
Read
August 5, 2026Title: This Shattered Star
Author: Vivian Isabelle
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 🌶️🌶️
✨📚 ARC Review 📚 ✨
Thank you to IRIS Influencer Society and Vivian Isabelle for the gifted eARC! My review and thoughts are my own.
Eloise Fennhaven. Competitor. Gods-cursed.
Eloise is the only citizen in the kingdom without magic, causing her to be ostracized, or worse attacked, as a blight on her people. Forced by the King to compete in deadly magical trials, she sees her chance to break the curse placed on her from the gods and attain magical powers - if she can survive the danger posed by yhe trials and other competitors!
Enter the tentative allies - Kodhan (brooding son of the King's General), and his friends Brannon and Theia. The reluctant allies to found family dynamic was great, and the banter between the whole team was on point - but especially between Eloise and Kodhan 🔥
This story is action packed and a lot of fun! I kept trying to carve out more reading time because I needed to know what happened next. I thought I knew where the story was headed but Ms. Isabelle got me with the twist at the end. I need book 2 stat after that cliffhanger 😱
Eloise has been lied to left and right, I can't wait to see what she does with all this new information in the next book!
If you like:
❤️🔥 fantasy romance
⚔️ games and trials
🗡️ stabby FMC
💀 protective/touch her and die MMC
✨ magic
🐲dragons
...then get yourself a copy of this book!!
Author: Vivian Isabelle
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 🌶️🌶️
✨📚 ARC Review 📚 ✨
Thank you to IRIS Influencer Society and Vivian Isabelle for the gifted eARC! My review and thoughts are my own.
Eloise Fennhaven. Competitor. Gods-cursed.
Eloise is the only citizen in the kingdom without magic, causing her to be ostracized, or worse attacked, as a blight on her people. Forced by the King to compete in deadly magical trials, she sees her chance to break the curse placed on her from the gods and attain magical powers - if she can survive the danger posed by yhe trials and other competitors!
Enter the tentative allies - Kodhan (brooding son of the King's General), and his friends Brannon and Theia. The reluctant allies to found family dynamic was great, and the banter between the whole team was on point - but especially between Eloise and Kodhan 🔥
This story is action packed and a lot of fun! I kept trying to carve out more reading time because I needed to know what happened next. I thought I knew where the story was headed but Ms. Isabelle got me with the twist at the end. I need book 2 stat after that cliffhanger 😱
Eloise has been lied to left and right, I can't wait to see what she does with all this new information in the next book!
If you like:
❤️🔥 fantasy romance
⚔️ games and trials
🗡️ stabby FMC
💀 protective/touch her and die MMC
✨ magic
🐲dragons
...then get yourself a copy of this book!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, IRIS, and the author, Vivian Isabelle, for the ARC of this book, This Shattered Star.
3.5 ⭐
This book started out really strong and hooked me immediately. I really got Powerless by Lauren Roberts vibes from the start of this book because the FMC is literally powerless in a realm of powerful people. Also the MMC has the ability to control fire, the FMC is close to the crown, and she has to compete in trails....very Powerless vibes. Not necessarily bad, but just very similar.
What I did like was right away was that the dragons outside the veil were known as rabid, fierce creatures that are trying to attack those inside the veil. I really wish the author put more of an emphasis on the danger of that though. Put more weight on why the trials are necessary, the danger behind what the trails are, etc.
Another very similarity that I found to Powerless us the relationship between the FMC and the MMC. They meet in the beginning because of a fight and that automatically puts a bad taste in the FMC's mouth. They are bantering and bickering until 70% of the way into the book.
The ending...was a lot. It felt like a huge info dump the last 15-20% and it was overwhelming. I have an idea on how it could have been better, but I don't want to spoil anything. I will probably read the next book, but not put it too high on my TBR list.
3.5 ⭐
This book started out really strong and hooked me immediately. I really got Powerless by Lauren Roberts vibes from the start of this book because the FMC is literally powerless in a realm of powerful people. Also the MMC has the ability to control fire, the FMC is close to the crown, and she has to compete in trails....very Powerless vibes. Not necessarily bad, but just very similar.
What I did like was right away was that the dragons outside the veil were known as rabid, fierce creatures that are trying to attack those inside the veil. I really wish the author put more of an emphasis on the danger of that though. Put more weight on why the trials are necessary, the danger behind what the trails are, etc.
Another very similarity that I found to Powerless us the relationship between the FMC and the MMC. They meet in the beginning because of a fight and that automatically puts a bad taste in the FMC's mouth. They are bantering and bickering until 70% of the way into the book.
The ending...was a lot. It felt like a huge info dump the last 15-20% and it was overwhelming. I have an idea on how it could have been better, but I don't want to spoil anything. I will probably read the next book, but not put it too high on my TBR list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3,5 Stars rounded up
The first sentence in this book was excellent, it did set the tone for the rest of the book in an intriguing way.
It's a unique world with interesting elemental magic. The FMC though don't have any magic of her own. I liked her, she was fierce and had quite a bit of rage to temp down at times but she was strong and relatable and she was easy to sympathize with.
I loved the banter within our group of allies, the found family aspect of the story was heartwarming and how the FMC grows throughout the book is very rewarding to read.
The MMC was a bit hot and cold which I didn't particularly like. The tension and chemistry was there but could have been a bit more developed.
The main focus was the 'Starlight trials'. Difficult magical tasks to perform and the uncertainty of who you could trust and who would try to kill you next. And not to forget; what unpleasantries would the blood thirsty king announce next?
I did wish however that we could have gotten a bit more information about the trials before we were thrown in. The lack of information made for many good twists but also took away tension and knowledge about how high the stakes really where.
I really liked the twists at the end. We got some answers but there is still so much that we still don't know for future books to explore.
If you like books with deadly trials, morally grey characters and lots of secrets all set in an unique fantasy world I would recommend you read this book!
Huge Thank You to author Vivian Isabelle and IRIS Influenser Society for providing me with this ARC, I'm truly grateful.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first sentence in this book was excellent, it did set the tone for the rest of the book in an intriguing way.
It's a unique world with interesting elemental magic. The FMC though don't have any magic of her own. I liked her, she was fierce and had quite a bit of rage to temp down at times but she was strong and relatable and she was easy to sympathize with.
I loved the banter within our group of allies, the found family aspect of the story was heartwarming and how the FMC grows throughout the book is very rewarding to read.
The MMC was a bit hot and cold which I didn't particularly like. The tension and chemistry was there but could have been a bit more developed.
The main focus was the 'Starlight trials'. Difficult magical tasks to perform and the uncertainty of who you could trust and who would try to kill you next. And not to forget; what unpleasantries would the blood thirsty king announce next?
I did wish however that we could have gotten a bit more information about the trials before we were thrown in. The lack of information made for many good twists but also took away tension and knowledge about how high the stakes really where.
I really liked the twists at the end. We got some answers but there is still so much that we still don't know for future books to explore.
If you like books with deadly trials, morally grey characters and lots of secrets all set in an unique fantasy world I would recommend you read this book!
Huge Thank You to author Vivian Isabelle and IRIS Influenser Society for providing me with this ARC, I'm truly grateful.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2026
Shoutout to Vivian Isabelle for allowing me to ARC read This Shattered Star!
This Shattered Star is a wonderful and interesting read. It is a story about a woman named Eloise who was born without magic. She is said to be cursed because she has no magic and she is treated like a blight in their society. They have trials that you can go through and at the end you are able to visit a temple where she believes she will be able to obtain magic. She is also very close to the King who controls these trials and forces her to take part in them. The MMC is a fire wielder and the son of the Second to the King named Kodhan. He also partakes in these trials with two of his friends Brannon and Theia who also have magic. There’s a catch to the trials in that everyone must have at least 1 ally and there can only be two winners. These trials in this book are different from other trials that I have read about. They are dangerous and deadly which makes it almost impossible for someone without magic. I was on the edge of my seat with this book. Loved the plot, the characters, the morally gray of it all and that ending…I did not see coming! There is a plot twist at the end of the book and I was like 🤯. Cannot wait for book 2 (even though book 1 hasn’t officially dropped yet 😬). 4.75 ⭐️
This Shattered Star is a wonderful and interesting read. It is a story about a woman named Eloise who was born without magic. She is said to be cursed because she has no magic and she is treated like a blight in their society. They have trials that you can go through and at the end you are able to visit a temple where she believes she will be able to obtain magic. She is also very close to the King who controls these trials and forces her to take part in them. The MMC is a fire wielder and the son of the Second to the King named Kodhan. He also partakes in these trials with two of his friends Brannon and Theia who also have magic. There’s a catch to the trials in that everyone must have at least 1 ally and there can only be two winners. These trials in this book are different from other trials that I have read about. They are dangerous and deadly which makes it almost impossible for someone without magic. I was on the edge of my seat with this book. Loved the plot, the characters, the morally gray of it all and that ending…I did not see coming! There is a plot twist at the end of the book and I was like 🤯. Cannot wait for book 2 (even though book 1 hasn’t officially dropped yet 😬). 4.75 ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! This book blew me away! I'm reeling from the cliffhanger ending feeling like I had so much figured out (which I did) but then author Vivian Isabelle masterfully added layers, nuances, and complexities that I could not have predicted. I am so eager for book 2 and will be processing characters and plotlines in the meantime trying to figure out answers 😂
Eloise began as a seemingly typical FMC for the romantasy genre--doomed to die in deadly trials and needing to prove herself through brute strength without magic. But she proves to be more as we learn layers of her character and past as she goes through the challenges and interacts with different characters.
Kodhan is a fire wielder 🔥 need I say more? Brooding, handsome, hatred for everyone and seemingly everything to prove, but he burns for her, and you have to read to learn why....😉
The alliances, relationship to King Maverick, and Diana all prove Vivian's phenomenal ability to craft complex characters to the point of hatred and confusion. No character is one dimensional.
Should I feel sympathetic? Are they just sadists? Who is telling the truth, and who is manipulating? I guess we need to wait for book 2!
Thanks so much for this ARC copy. These opinions are my own.
Eloise began as a seemingly typical FMC for the romantasy genre--doomed to die in deadly trials and needing to prove herself through brute strength without magic. But she proves to be more as we learn layers of her character and past as she goes through the challenges and interacts with different characters.
Kodhan is a fire wielder 🔥 need I say more? Brooding, handsome, hatred for everyone and seemingly everything to prove, but he burns for her, and you have to read to learn why....😉
The alliances, relationship to King Maverick, and Diana all prove Vivian's phenomenal ability to craft complex characters to the point of hatred and confusion. No character is one dimensional.
Should I feel sympathetic? Are they just sadists? Who is telling the truth, and who is manipulating? I guess we need to wait for book 2!
Thanks so much for this ARC copy. These opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
I breezed through This Shattered Star by Vivian Isabelle. If you love a stabby fmc, this might be up your alley, our little viper is already spilling blood on page one.
We’ve got elemental magic, trials, reluctant allies to lovers, an ‘it’s complicated’ situation with a king and a broody fire-wielding mmc barely keeping his emotions in check. The trials are fast paced and paired with the simmering romance, I was flipping pages like Khodan had set my fingers ablaze.
“I told you once that I will always find you. And I meant it. There is no place for me other than by your side. The stars themselves could devour the world we walk on, and it wouldn’t matter. I know we will be together in the next. In every timeline, in every life, I am yours”
The standouts for me were side characters Theia and Brannon. Loyal, likeable, tough in their own rights but far less prickly than the mmc & fmc, these 2 quickly became my favourite characters in this world.
The mystery of our magicless fmc is revealed at the end and I’m very much looking forward to seeing what’s in store for our heroes in book 2.
Thank you Iris Influencer Society and Vivian for having me on your e-arc team. Wishing you all the best for release day.
We’ve got elemental magic, trials, reluctant allies to lovers, an ‘it’s complicated’ situation with a king and a broody fire-wielding mmc barely keeping his emotions in check. The trials are fast paced and paired with the simmering romance, I was flipping pages like Khodan had set my fingers ablaze.
“I told you once that I will always find you. And I meant it. There is no place for me other than by your side. The stars themselves could devour the world we walk on, and it wouldn’t matter. I know we will be together in the next. In every timeline, in every life, I am yours”
The standouts for me were side characters Theia and Brannon. Loyal, likeable, tough in their own rights but far less prickly than the mmc & fmc, these 2 quickly became my favourite characters in this world.
The mystery of our magicless fmc is revealed at the end and I’m very much looking forward to seeing what’s in store for our heroes in book 2.
Thank you Iris Influencer Society and Vivian for having me on your e-arc team. Wishing you all the best for release day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I want to thank Iris Influencer Society and Vivian Isabelle for the gifted eARC copy of This Shattered Star to read and provide my honest review.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
I really enjoy romantasy books especially if they deal with gods and any sort of celestial theme and this book ticked off those boxes and made for a really good read. Vivian Isabelle created a character named Eloise who was born cursed. Without an ounce of magic in a world filled with magic blessed people, Eloise has to do everything she can in order to live.
When Eloise finds herself in the Starlight Trials, that’s what really pulled me into the story. Seeing Eloise fight her way in the trials, making allies and having to worry about who she could trust made for a great trial that I like to see in the romantasy genre. There was a pretty good found family trope that came to life during this trial and I felt like Eloise gained so much from these trials.
Overall, this was a pretty solid romantasy and I am glad that I had a chance to read it and become introduced to the world that Vivian created. I think a lot of readers will enjoy Eloise’s story and the friends she meets along the way during the starlight trials.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
I really enjoy romantasy books especially if they deal with gods and any sort of celestial theme and this book ticked off those boxes and made for a really good read. Vivian Isabelle created a character named Eloise who was born cursed. Without an ounce of magic in a world filled with magic blessed people, Eloise has to do everything she can in order to live.
When Eloise finds herself in the Starlight Trials, that’s what really pulled me into the story. Seeing Eloise fight her way in the trials, making allies and having to worry about who she could trust made for a great trial that I like to see in the romantasy genre. There was a pretty good found family trope that came to life during this trial and I felt like Eloise gained so much from these trials.
Overall, this was a pretty solid romantasy and I am glad that I had a chance to read it and become introduced to the world that Vivian created. I think a lot of readers will enjoy Eloise’s story and the friends she meets along the way during the starlight trials.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️
This Shattered Star had an amazing take on the deadly trials. So my twists and turns by the end that I would have never predicted. I’m excited to read what happens next.
Eloise is our badass FMC who literally has the whole city against her. They hate her because she was the only one born without any magical abilities. She has been selected to compete in this year’s Starlight Trials, the winner is granted access to a temple which has an abyss of power available, which is a chance for her to gain magical abilities. During the trials, she had to have an ally aka our MMC whom she hates. Our MMC, Kodhan, is a broody, grumpy fire wielder 🔥 These two have to navigate as a team with our other two side characters, whom I love!! The trials kept me so intrigued throughout with all the other secrets and betrayals. The ending was incredible and again so unpredictable!
My only complaint is I wish there was a little more world building, but I have a feeling the world is going to continue to be revealed during the next book.
Thank you Vivian Isabelle & Iris Influencers for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review ♥️📚
🌶️🌶️
This Shattered Star had an amazing take on the deadly trials. So my twists and turns by the end that I would have never predicted. I’m excited to read what happens next.
Eloise is our badass FMC who literally has the whole city against her. They hate her because she was the only one born without any magical abilities. She has been selected to compete in this year’s Starlight Trials, the winner is granted access to a temple which has an abyss of power available, which is a chance for her to gain magical abilities. During the trials, she had to have an ally aka our MMC whom she hates. Our MMC, Kodhan, is a broody, grumpy fire wielder 🔥 These two have to navigate as a team with our other two side characters, whom I love!! The trials kept me so intrigued throughout with all the other secrets and betrayals. The ending was incredible and again so unpredictable!
My only complaint is I wish there was a little more world building, but I have a feeling the world is going to continue to be revealed during the next book.
Thank you Vivian Isabelle & Iris Influencers for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review ♥️📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fast paced read from start to finish.
Imagine if The Hunger Games had magic and a sprinkle of dragons.
You have Eloise, a girl who is believed to be cursed by the Gods forced into The Starlight Trials, in the hopes to make it beyond the Veil to acquire what she believes she is owed.Magick of her own. 3 Tests that require her to make unlikely alleys. Kodhan, the son of the second to the King, Brannon and Theia. Only two of them can come out as champions out of a a dozen other competitors. Each of her allies have something different to bring to the trials.
Kodhan, a fire-weilder, Theia can enter minds and they all do everything they can to make sure she makes it to the finish line.
But not everything is as it seems with a King who I can only imagine really is a sociopath and will do anything for entertainment and to keep Eloise by his side and Kodhan who sets her whole being on fire.
This story was just so fast paced and hot, with a revelation and twists at the end that I didn’t see coming.
If you like
Elemental Magick
Magickal Trials
Fate
Destiny
Sprinkle of dragons
Gods
Found Family
Slow-burn
Enemies-allies-lovers
Then you’ll like this one.
Imagine if The Hunger Games had magic and a sprinkle of dragons.
You have Eloise, a girl who is believed to be cursed by the Gods forced into The Starlight Trials, in the hopes to make it beyond the Veil to acquire what she believes she is owed.Magick of her own. 3 Tests that require her to make unlikely alleys. Kodhan, the son of the second to the King, Brannon and Theia. Only two of them can come out as champions out of a a dozen other competitors. Each of her allies have something different to bring to the trials.
Kodhan, a fire-weilder, Theia can enter minds and they all do everything they can to make sure she makes it to the finish line.
But not everything is as it seems with a King who I can only imagine really is a sociopath and will do anything for entertainment and to keep Eloise by his side and Kodhan who sets her whole being on fire.
This story was just so fast paced and hot, with a revelation and twists at the end that I didn’t see coming.
If you like
Elemental Magick
Magickal Trials
Fate
Destiny
Sprinkle of dragons
Gods
Found Family
Slow-burn
Enemies-allies-lovers
Then you’ll like this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book! The ideas were unique but the world building wasn’t difficult to imagine or understand. I love a book with trials, and these were high stakes with amazing magic. I look forward to reading the next book!
World- The world was really unique! It was well thought out- a country that is in darkness and protected from outside forces. But wait, there’s more!
Magic- I loved the elemental magic, and how Maverick’s magic was so all encompasing. The trials were crazy and so exciting. I loved the reveal in the end- it makes the world so much bigger for the next book.
Characters- All of the side characters showed good depth, and you learn so much more about them as the story unfolds. I have questions about the relationship with Maverick and Eloise, and I loved Kodhan.
Romance- A slow burn, the romance scenes were well written and easy to picture. No crazy acrobatics- just down and dirty ;-)
Story- I love a story with trials, and this one had such great depth! The world was interesting and I can’t wait for the next book. The story had a lot to it for fewer than 400 pages! I loved it and will reread it again.
World- The world was really unique! It was well thought out- a country that is in darkness and protected from outside forces. But wait, there’s more!
Magic- I loved the elemental magic, and how Maverick’s magic was so all encompasing. The trials were crazy and so exciting. I loved the reveal in the end- it makes the world so much bigger for the next book.
Characters- All of the side characters showed good depth, and you learn so much more about them as the story unfolds. I have questions about the relationship with Maverick and Eloise, and I loved Kodhan.
Romance- A slow burn, the romance scenes were well written and easy to picture. No crazy acrobatics- just down and dirty ;-)
Story- I love a story with trials, and this one had such great depth! The world was interesting and I can’t wait for the next book. The story had a lot to it for fewer than 400 pages! I loved it and will reread it again.
August 3, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy Received from the Author
All comments and thoughts are my own
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Deadly Trials
Elemental Magic
Royal Ploys
Slow Burn
Fire-Wielding MMC
Stabby FMC
Banter
The Starlight Trials.
The Champion - to conquer 3 trials would earn a place in the Kings Court - the true prize? To cross over the Veil.
Beyond the Veil? A temple, housing unspeakable amounts of magic, ripe for the taking. Viciously protected by dragons.
When King Maverick announces a different rule for this years trials, how will that affect Eloise? For now, she cannot compete alone. She has 3 allies she doesn’t want or trust.
Eloise may not have magic like her peers, but that doesn’t mean she’s defenceless. She’s been trained by her grandmothers private guard. Where others wield magic, she shines in hand to hand combat.
Courage. Wit. Strength.
Favourite Quotes:
"If I am to look forward to crowning someone this year, it will be you. No one else."
“I would not die here”
"Do you see how badly I burn for you, Eloise?"
He calls her ‘little viper’ - violent, all sharp edges, unafraid to bite.
All comments and thoughts are my own
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Deadly Trials
Elemental Magic
Royal Ploys
Slow Burn
Fire-Wielding MMC
Stabby FMC
Banter
The Starlight Trials.
The Champion - to conquer 3 trials would earn a place in the Kings Court - the true prize? To cross over the Veil.
Beyond the Veil? A temple, housing unspeakable amounts of magic, ripe for the taking. Viciously protected by dragons.
When King Maverick announces a different rule for this years trials, how will that affect Eloise? For now, she cannot compete alone. She has 3 allies she doesn’t want or trust.
Eloise may not have magic like her peers, but that doesn’t mean she’s defenceless. She’s been trained by her grandmothers private guard. Where others wield magic, she shines in hand to hand combat.
Courage. Wit. Strength.
Favourite Quotes:
"If I am to look forward to crowning someone this year, it will be you. No one else."
“I would not die here”
"Do you see how badly I burn for you, Eloise?"
He calls her ‘little viper’ - violent, all sharp edges, unafraid to bite.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Vivian Isabelle for her ARC
Welcome to the world of endless night. A place where magic is celebrated and held in high regard. Eloise was chosen for the trials even though she has no magic. She already met one of the contenders Kodhan, and doesn’t like him as he’s the son of the 2nd. Who she despises.
This book was go, go, go from the get go, but I absolutely loved that. It was so action packed there was never a dull moment.
The trials were exciting,new and ones I’ve never seen before. I loved how it flipped the script with non magic people being the ones that are looked down upon. That only made Eloise a stronger FMC. She has this can do attitude, where she won’t take crap from anyone.
I loved getting to know all her allies Theia, Brannon, and Kodhan. Can’t wait to learn more about them in later books.
I did not expect that ending. I had no inkling of where it would end up. I’m really excited to see where this story goes. I wish I had the next one already.
The slow burn was really great. I love a slow burn, it’s one of my favorite tropes 🥰
I read the last 191 pages in one day as I didn’t want to put it down.
Welcome to the world of endless night. A place where magic is celebrated and held in high regard. Eloise was chosen for the trials even though she has no magic. She already met one of the contenders Kodhan, and doesn’t like him as he’s the son of the 2nd. Who she despises.
This book was go, go, go from the get go, but I absolutely loved that. It was so action packed there was never a dull moment.
The trials were exciting,new and ones I’ve never seen before. I loved how it flipped the script with non magic people being the ones that are looked down upon. That only made Eloise a stronger FMC. She has this can do attitude, where she won’t take crap from anyone.
I loved getting to know all her allies Theia, Brannon, and Kodhan. Can’t wait to learn more about them in later books.
I did not expect that ending. I had no inkling of where it would end up. I’m really excited to see where this story goes. I wish I had the next one already.
The slow burn was really great. I love a slow burn, it’s one of my favorite tropes 🥰
I read the last 191 pages in one day as I didn’t want to put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First I want to think IRIS and Vivian Isabelle for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
If you are looking for a book with a female assassin who can absolutely handle her own then this is the book for you. You have Eloise who is our FMC. She is living in world where magic rules everything and unfortunately for her she does not have any magic. Eloise is then forced to compete in deadly trials where she has to become allies with several other competitors that are not of her choosing.
One of her reluctant allies is our fire wielding MMC Kodan. You also get Kodans friends Theia and Brannon as her other two allies. During the trails they are doing everything they can to help keep Eloise alive. During the trials there are so many secrets among them that you are going to want to uncover.
And I will tell you that huge plot twist had be absolutely dumbfounded. I did not see it coming at all and it had me saying WHAT with my mouth wide open for the last 15% of this book. I need book two ASAP because I need to know what happens next.
🌌 Enemies to lovers
🌌 Touch her and die
🌌 Slow Burn
🌌 Trials
🌌 Dragons
If you are looking for a book with a female assassin who can absolutely handle her own then this is the book for you. You have Eloise who is our FMC. She is living in world where magic rules everything and unfortunately for her she does not have any magic. Eloise is then forced to compete in deadly trials where she has to become allies with several other competitors that are not of her choosing.
One of her reluctant allies is our fire wielding MMC Kodan. You also get Kodans friends Theia and Brannon as her other two allies. During the trails they are doing everything they can to help keep Eloise alive. During the trials there are so many secrets among them that you are going to want to uncover.
And I will tell you that huge plot twist had be absolutely dumbfounded. I did not see it coming at all and it had me saying WHAT with my mouth wide open for the last 15% of this book. I need book two ASAP because I need to know what happens next.
🌌 Enemies to lovers
🌌 Touch her and die
🌌 Slow Burn
🌌 Trials
🌌 Dragons
July 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this ARC read!
The vibes: Think Caraval meets Hunger Games (if it had magic) with a splash of Fourth Wing.
The story: I found it very intriguing. It slowed down a little bit in the middle, which is pretty normal for fantasy books. I found that the lore and worldbuilding was a little confusing at first until I got closer to the end. But I believe some of that was intentional on the author’s part.
Characters: I really enjoyed the dynamic of Eloise, Kodhan, Brannon and Theia. It was a great reluctant allies vibe.
The romance: at first, I thought, “wow, these enemies are falling pretty fast”, and then I got to the end and was like “OH! That’s why”. So, it makes sense to me now why Kodhan seemed so obsessed from day one. And why Eloise didn’t seem to understand her quick attraction.
I’m so, so curious to learn more about this world!! I hope there is another book in the future. I really want to know more of the lore and about how Eloise’s story unfolds.
Thanks to Vivian for a fantastic Romantasy read!
The vibes: Think Caraval meets Hunger Games (if it had magic) with a splash of Fourth Wing.
The story: I found it very intriguing. It slowed down a little bit in the middle, which is pretty normal for fantasy books. I found that the lore and worldbuilding was a little confusing at first until I got closer to the end. But I believe some of that was intentional on the author’s part.
Characters: I really enjoyed the dynamic of Eloise, Kodhan, Brannon and Theia. It was a great reluctant allies vibe.
The romance: at first, I thought, “wow, these enemies are falling pretty fast”, and then I got to the end and was like “OH! That’s why”. So, it makes sense to me now why Kodhan seemed so obsessed from day one. And why Eloise didn’t seem to understand her quick attraction.
I’m so, so curious to learn more about this world!! I hope there is another book in the future. I really want to know more of the lore and about how Eloise’s story unfolds.
Thanks to Vivian for a fantastic Romantasy read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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