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Stardust Destiny
The face that launched a thousand ships...
I grew up knowing my destiny. Daddy pounded it in my head, my brother repeated it every day of my life. I was the only daughter of the Orsi crime syndicate, the pretty prize that would bring peace. My one job was to marry Callum Sheehan, the vicious head of the Irish mob in Chicago.
I never questioned my future–until I saw him.
The man who was never meant to love her…
I wasn’t going to the wedding. It’s shit that my brother does, things our father requires of the heir of the Sosa cartel. Not me. I’m the black sheep, the one Mama spoiled, and my father loves, but without the pressure of expectation. But Sheehan is too big a deal for me to blow off.
And then I see her.
The love that started a war…
She isn’t mine. She will never be mine. I watch her fall apart when she thinks no one is watching. I watch her marry another man. I watch her bravery. And I don’t care who she belongs to or that it will start a war between our families.
I will damn us both to possess her, and burn down the world to keep her.
A modern erotic retelling of Helen of Troy, and the epic love that brought an empire to its knees.
I grew up knowing my destiny. Daddy pounded it in my head, my brother repeated it every day of my life. I was the only daughter of the Orsi crime syndicate, the pretty prize that would bring peace. My one job was to marry Callum Sheehan, the vicious head of the Irish mob in Chicago.
I never questioned my future–until I saw him.
The man who was never meant to love her…
I wasn’t going to the wedding. It’s shit that my brother does, things our father requires of the heir of the Sosa cartel. Not me. I’m the black sheep, the one Mama spoiled, and my father loves, but without the pressure of expectation. But Sheehan is too big a deal for me to blow off.
And then I see her.
The love that started a war…
She isn’t mine. She will never be mine. I watch her fall apart when she thinks no one is watching. I watch her marry another man. I watch her bravery. And I don’t care who she belongs to or that it will start a war between our families.
I will damn us both to possess her, and burn down the world to keep her.
A modern erotic retelling of Helen of Troy, and the epic love that brought an empire to its knees.
165 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2016
66 people want to read
About the author
Nazarea Andrews
46 books431 followersNazarea Andrews is an avid reader and tends to write the stories she wants to read. She loves chocolate and coffee almost as much as she loves books, but not quite as much as she loves her kids. She lives in south Georgia with her husband, daughters, and overgrown dog.
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August 14, 2019This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Say the word “retelling” and I’m pretty much convinced I’m going to enjoy the book. And I’d never read a retelling of the Helen of Troy story before, so I was really looking forward to this one. I thought this was an entertaining take on the original tale – a bit of a guilty pleasure read, but pleasurable all the same!
What Fed My Addiction:
It’s a retelling!
I thought that Andrews had a fantastic concept – reimagining the Helen of Troy story with rival organized crime families. The crime bosses are often larger than life, so it’s kind of a fun comparison to Greek gods. And a lot of the details of this story fell in line pretty solidly with the original story – or at least one version of it (Andrews points out at the beginning of the book that there are conflicting accounts of Helen’s story, and this is the one she chose to retell).
Tragic past. Ileana’s past plays a large role in her current pain. Her story unfolded throughout the book, and I appreciated learning it that way. It was nearly impossible not to feel Ileana’s pain and to empathize with her once you found out the horrors in her past.
Ileana.
I wasn’t sure I was going to like Ileana at first since she was kind of meek and went along with her family’s plans for her. But she slowly but surely came into her own as the book went on and at least attempted to take matters into her own hands.
Steamy romance.
If you’re looking for a romance with a high heat factor, this one should do the trick. I didn’t always feel a true connection between Paris and Ileana (see my negative below), but I sure did feel the heat!
What Left Me Wanting More:
Instalove.
Honestly, I had a hard time caring too terribly much about Paris and Ileana as a couple because, for most of the book, they didn’t seem to have much more than a physical connection. And since Ileana had plenty of chemistry with her husband as well, I didn’t really see why she fell for Paris so easily and completely. Paris and Ileana did both have tragedies in their pasts, which connected them somewhat, but I just never felt that invested in them as a couple. So, I kind of had to rely on the chemistry between these two for the romance angle – and since the book is a romance, that was a shame.
Few details about the original myth.
There were a few details about the agreement between the crime families that didn’t make complete sense to me (why they all agreed to protect Ileana and her husband or why everyone seemed to think it was such a brilliant idea) – but when I finished the book, I looked back at the original story and found that most of those details all came from there, so I can’t really blame Andrews for the gaps in logic.
If you’re looking for a steamy read and an interesting new take on a very old tale, this book is perfect for you! I give it 3/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Say the word “retelling” and I’m pretty much convinced I’m going to enjoy the book. And I’d never read a retelling of the Helen of Troy story before, so I was really looking forward to this one. I thought this was an entertaining take on the original tale – a bit of a guilty pleasure read, but pleasurable all the same!
What Fed My Addiction:
It’s a retelling!
I thought that Andrews had a fantastic concept – reimagining the Helen of Troy story with rival organized crime families. The crime bosses are often larger than life, so it’s kind of a fun comparison to Greek gods. And a lot of the details of this story fell in line pretty solidly with the original story – or at least one version of it (Andrews points out at the beginning of the book that there are conflicting accounts of Helen’s story, and this is the one she chose to retell).
Tragic past. Ileana’s past plays a large role in her current pain. Her story unfolded throughout the book, and I appreciated learning it that way. It was nearly impossible not to feel Ileana’s pain and to empathize with her once you found out the horrors in her past.
Ileana.
I wasn’t sure I was going to like Ileana at first since she was kind of meek and went along with her family’s plans for her. But she slowly but surely came into her own as the book went on and at least attempted to take matters into her own hands.
Steamy romance.
If you’re looking for a romance with a high heat factor, this one should do the trick. I didn’t always feel a true connection between Paris and Ileana (see my negative below), but I sure did feel the heat!
What Left Me Wanting More:
Instalove.
Honestly, I had a hard time caring too terribly much about Paris and Ileana as a couple because, for most of the book, they didn’t seem to have much more than a physical connection. And since Ileana had plenty of chemistry with her husband as well, I didn’t really see why she fell for Paris so easily and completely. Paris and Ileana did both have tragedies in their pasts, which connected them somewhat, but I just never felt that invested in them as a couple. So, I kind of had to rely on the chemistry between these two for the romance angle – and since the book is a romance, that was a shame.
Few details about the original myth.
There were a few details about the agreement between the crime families that didn’t make complete sense to me (why they all agreed to protect Ileana and her husband or why everyone seemed to think it was such a brilliant idea) – but when I finished the book, I looked back at the original story and found that most of those details all came from there, so I can’t really blame Andrews for the gaps in logic.
If you’re looking for a steamy read and an interesting new take on a very old tale, this book is perfect for you! I give it 3/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
February 14, 2016
I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest review. Review can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
Nazarea Andrews is one of the authors who can jump from genre to genre and still write stories that captivate you in every way. Combining mythology with the dark world of Mafia is also a new style I've never seen so far in the books I've read.
"Stardust Destiny" is a retelling of Helen of Troy but in the present with conspiracies and danger. Ileana and Paris is a couple which I fear too much. I don't know if they'll survive or not and I really want to read their story in the sequel. What I couldn't quite catch was how quickly their relationship formed. It was almost insta-love without any serious couple development. If this is explained in some way in the next book, then I will let it go.
It's a good read, if you like Mafia and sexy men and I hope it will satisfy you.
Nazarea Andrews is one of the authors who can jump from genre to genre and still write stories that captivate you in every way. Combining mythology with the dark world of Mafia is also a new style I've never seen so far in the books I've read.
"Stardust Destiny" is a retelling of Helen of Troy but in the present with conspiracies and danger. Ileana and Paris is a couple which I fear too much. I don't know if they'll survive or not and I really want to read their story in the sequel. What I couldn't quite catch was how quickly their relationship formed. It was almost insta-love without any serious couple development. If this is explained in some way in the next book, then I will let it go.
It's a good read, if you like Mafia and sexy men and I hope it will satisfy you.
February 10, 2016
Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict (www.bookboyfriendaddict.com). A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
“Can we leave everything in here? Who we are, why we’re here. Everything but,” she glances at me, “us?”
“What were you running from, in the club?”
“Reality,” she says, softly and my heart hurts.
She sounds so damn sad. “Just us, pretty girl.”
When I came across the blurb for this book I was intrigued, I liked the idea of doing a modern take on a classic story. This is basically a retelling of Helen of Troy set in modern times and involving mob families and I confess that I to Google ‘Helen of Troy’ to brush up on the original story. I can tell that just based on the high level overview I read that the author is sticking really close to the original story. Makes me a little nervous for the conclusion of this one! But I digress… our Helen in this story is Ileana Orsi who is set to marry Callan, the head of the Sheehan mob family to fulfill the promise made 12 years earlier and seal the alliance between all the Families. She is resigned to her fate and knows she has to do what is expected of her, but what she doesn’t bank on is meeting a handsome and mysterious man a few nights before the wedding. Paris Sosa is reckless, popular with the ladies and second in line for the Sosa Cartel. He sees the pain and fear that Ileana tries to hide and he is drawn to her, even though they agreed it would be just one night. Ileana tries to fall into line in her new life, while Paris tries to find ways to stay close to her and somehow make her his.
I want to start by saying that this book ends on a cliffhanger, the second half of the story is not going to be out until June. I was not aware of this fact prior to picking up the book and I am not sure I would have chosen to read it at this time had I known. Things were just starting to get good and then it ended, not knowing ahead of time that I wouldn’t be getting a complete story was a bit of a bummer when it ended and I had just started getting really into it. And it’s not that I mind a cliffhanger, I just wish I had that mindset going into it rather than thinking I was getting the whole thing.
The storyline itself I liked, but there were some times that it felt like information overload. Maybe this was just me, but I had a hard time keeping track of the people from the various Families and their assorted backstories. I would have liked to have had more time to connect with Paris and Ileana as a pairing. I loved their first meeting and when they discovered each other’s true identities but then up until the last few chapters there wasn’t much of them together, I was hoping for more stolen moments and things to help further develop their connection. Given the way the book ends, perhaps that’ll come more in the second book. I will say that I also did enjoy not knowing whether I should like or hate Callan, I think there’s more to that story too.
There were also a lot of grammatical errors or instances of using the wrong word that created a bit of a choppy reading experience. I had an advanced review copy of this book so I am not sure how much of this could be attributed to that versus just errors, but it made things a little tricky at times. There were parts that I enjoyed and parts that needed a little work, but it was a quick and easy read, I was able to finish it in one afternoon. If you’re going to check this out now, just remember, this one does end on a cliffhanger!
3.5 Stars
“Can we leave everything in here? Who we are, why we’re here. Everything but,” she glances at me, “us?”
“What were you running from, in the club?”
“Reality,” she says, softly and my heart hurts.
She sounds so damn sad. “Just us, pretty girl.”
When I came across the blurb for this book I was intrigued, I liked the idea of doing a modern take on a classic story. This is basically a retelling of Helen of Troy set in modern times and involving mob families and I confess that I to Google ‘Helen of Troy’ to brush up on the original story. I can tell that just based on the high level overview I read that the author is sticking really close to the original story. Makes me a little nervous for the conclusion of this one! But I digress… our Helen in this story is Ileana Orsi who is set to marry Callan, the head of the Sheehan mob family to fulfill the promise made 12 years earlier and seal the alliance between all the Families. She is resigned to her fate and knows she has to do what is expected of her, but what she doesn’t bank on is meeting a handsome and mysterious man a few nights before the wedding. Paris Sosa is reckless, popular with the ladies and second in line for the Sosa Cartel. He sees the pain and fear that Ileana tries to hide and he is drawn to her, even though they agreed it would be just one night. Ileana tries to fall into line in her new life, while Paris tries to find ways to stay close to her and somehow make her his.
I want to start by saying that this book ends on a cliffhanger, the second half of the story is not going to be out until June. I was not aware of this fact prior to picking up the book and I am not sure I would have chosen to read it at this time had I known. Things were just starting to get good and then it ended, not knowing ahead of time that I wouldn’t be getting a complete story was a bit of a bummer when it ended and I had just started getting really into it. And it’s not that I mind a cliffhanger, I just wish I had that mindset going into it rather than thinking I was getting the whole thing.
The storyline itself I liked, but there were some times that it felt like information overload. Maybe this was just me, but I had a hard time keeping track of the people from the various Families and their assorted backstories. I would have liked to have had more time to connect with Paris and Ileana as a pairing. I loved their first meeting and when they discovered each other’s true identities but then up until the last few chapters there wasn’t much of them together, I was hoping for more stolen moments and things to help further develop their connection. Given the way the book ends, perhaps that’ll come more in the second book. I will say that I also did enjoy not knowing whether I should like or hate Callan, I think there’s more to that story too.
There were also a lot of grammatical errors or instances of using the wrong word that created a bit of a choppy reading experience. I had an advanced review copy of this book so I am not sure how much of this could be attributed to that versus just errors, but it made things a little tricky at times. There were parts that I enjoyed and parts that needed a little work, but it was a quick and easy read, I was able to finish it in one afternoon. If you’re going to check this out now, just remember, this one does end on a cliffhanger!
February 15, 2016
I've got to get this out of the way first - yes it does contain cheating. you can't really have a re-imagining of Helen and Paris without it really if you think about it logically. As that is exactly the impetus for the Trojan War after all, Helen running away with Paris and leaving the King of Sparta. see I've done my homework, gone on admit your impressed ;) Normally, cheating would be a definite no-go for me. HOWEVER, in some respects, it's easy to overlook when you consider Ileana has been manipulated into an arranged marriage with no consideration to her own desires.
Set in the world of organised crime and mob families, it takes a little time to understand the dynamics and machinations of the characters involved. EVERYONE, and I do mean everyone has their own agenda, it's a very complex plot. Nazarea does a fantastic job of spinning the tale and pacing the revelations at the same as remaining faithful to the original tale.
Ileana is an enigma, her character development through the narrative is quite spectacular. Initially, it is easy to dismiss her especially with the hints of madness murmured about her. Ileana plays her part to perfection, the beautiful pawn used to broker peace between rival crime families. As the story progresses it is blatantly apparent Ileana is like a swan, gliding smoothly through the surface but churning underneath. Hints of a past trauma add tension and suspense to he plot. When the revelations occur it both shocks and aids understanding of Ileana. My heart hurt for her and the things she has endured. Ass in the fact she has no true friends and you can't help but feel sorry for her. She is far stronger than anyone gives her credit for. Anyone that is apart from Paris. From their first encounter Ileana and Paris (this is going to sound so cheesy) see beneath the public persona's they both wear, to the depths of their very soul. The whole soul-mate ideal depicted to perfection, there is no denying Paris and Ileana are destined to be together, thus helping overlook the cheating aspect within the plot.
There is a very misogynistic feel to the narrative, portraying how women are viewed within crime families as chess pieces to broker the best marriage and then produce heirs. I couldn't quite understand Ileana's importance, her value so great all of the crime families would agree to peace based on her marriage. REALLY!!! I just don't get it. Also the choice of husband for Ileana, who decided and based on what criteria?????
Both Ileana and Paris have suffered tragedy at a young age shaping them into the people they have become. Paris especially embraces the role he plays, able to carry out his own plans while being easily overlooked. You have to give his evil genius credit.
Stardust Destiny follows the original tale of Helen and Paris beautifully, so well in fact that I may be holding my breath to see just how the WAR is going to play out.
There are a lot of unanswered questions at the end of Stardust Destiny:
Why was Callan chosen?
What happened to his first wife?
Is he hooking up with his evil cousin Maeve?
What will become of Cassio/Travail and Peony?
How will Paris and Ileana be together?
It's a long wait for Shattered Love Story - June 23rd
Set in the world of organised crime and mob families, it takes a little time to understand the dynamics and machinations of the characters involved. EVERYONE, and I do mean everyone has their own agenda, it's a very complex plot. Nazarea does a fantastic job of spinning the tale and pacing the revelations at the same as remaining faithful to the original tale.
Ileana is an enigma, her character development through the narrative is quite spectacular. Initially, it is easy to dismiss her especially with the hints of madness murmured about her. Ileana plays her part to perfection, the beautiful pawn used to broker peace between rival crime families. As the story progresses it is blatantly apparent Ileana is like a swan, gliding smoothly through the surface but churning underneath. Hints of a past trauma add tension and suspense to he plot. When the revelations occur it both shocks and aids understanding of Ileana. My heart hurt for her and the things she has endured. Ass in the fact she has no true friends and you can't help but feel sorry for her. She is far stronger than anyone gives her credit for. Anyone that is apart from Paris. From their first encounter Ileana and Paris (this is going to sound so cheesy) see beneath the public persona's they both wear, to the depths of their very soul. The whole soul-mate ideal depicted to perfection, there is no denying Paris and Ileana are destined to be together, thus helping overlook the cheating aspect within the plot.
There is a very misogynistic feel to the narrative, portraying how women are viewed within crime families as chess pieces to broker the best marriage and then produce heirs. I couldn't quite understand Ileana's importance, her value so great all of the crime families would agree to peace based on her marriage. REALLY!!! I just don't get it. Also the choice of husband for Ileana, who decided and based on what criteria?????
Both Ileana and Paris have suffered tragedy at a young age shaping them into the people they have become. Paris especially embraces the role he plays, able to carry out his own plans while being easily overlooked. You have to give his evil genius credit.
Stardust Destiny follows the original tale of Helen and Paris beautifully, so well in fact that I may be holding my breath to see just how the WAR is going to play out.
There are a lot of unanswered questions at the end of Stardust Destiny:
Why was Callan chosen?
What happened to his first wife?
Is he hooking up with his evil cousin Maeve?
What will become of Cassio/Travail and Peony?
How will Paris and Ileana be together?
It's a long wait for Shattered Love Story - June 23rd
February 11, 2017
I have no idea how many people have read this book, but I do know it's not enough. Why is everybody not reading this incredible author??? You can guarantee that as soon as I pick up one of Nazarea Andrews books, I will be lost until I turn that final page.
She constantly has me hooked in every world she creates, every story she retells, and every word she writes. I completely devoured Stardust Destiny in one sitting, and it felt so good!!
I would love to say it was a great retelling, but I've never read about Helena of Troy before, so I honestly have no idea! What I do know, is that after reading this book, I now want to read about the woman who started this huge war.
Stardust Destiny really did have me completely gripped. Recently, I've had no real time to read, so I've found myself skimming books to get them read quicker. That was not possible with this book. I hung on every written word. I couldn't allow myself to miss a single piece of Ileana's story.
I loved Ileana, I loved Paris, and as much as I didn't want to, I also kind of loved Callan for the most part. And dayum, was there some sexy scenes in this book!!
This was the perfect start to another addictive story from Nazarea Andrews, and I can't wait to read the conclusion when the sequel releases in June! Buy it. Read it. Love it.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
She constantly has me hooked in every world she creates, every story she retells, and every word she writes. I completely devoured Stardust Destiny in one sitting, and it felt so good!!
I would love to say it was a great retelling, but I've never read about Helena of Troy before, so I honestly have no idea! What I do know, is that after reading this book, I now want to read about the woman who started this huge war.
Stardust Destiny really did have me completely gripped. Recently, I've had no real time to read, so I've found myself skimming books to get them read quicker. That was not possible with this book. I hung on every written word. I couldn't allow myself to miss a single piece of Ileana's story.
I loved Ileana, I loved Paris, and as much as I didn't want to, I also kind of loved Callan for the most part. And dayum, was there some sexy scenes in this book!!
This was the perfect start to another addictive story from Nazarea Andrews, and I can't wait to read the conclusion when the sequel releases in June! Buy it. Read it. Love it.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
February 16, 2016
As soon as I saw this gorgeous cover and read that blurb I knew I had to get my hands on Nazarea Andrews' Stardust Destiny! Seriously,
A modern erotic retelling of Helen of Troy, and the epic love that brought an empire to its knees.
And a mafia book to boot! I just knew I was in for a treat!
I was drawn into Nazarea's writing right from the start. But let me also be candid and get all of your pesky hot buttons dealt with from the get-go. YES there IS cheating. Dude, this is a retelling of the story of Helen of Troy. And she remains faithful to it. So you know there will be a love triangle and being faithful to one person is not going to be part of the story. Do you need to be familiar and well versed in Greek mythology to love and appreciate this book? HELL NO! Now the other hot button for some of ya... yes this is a cliffy. There is so much jam packed in this book there would have been no way to end it all here. So yes you need to wait for the next book to have all of your questions answered.
Stardust Destiny gripped me from the start and held my attention through the whole book. It was raw and addictive. It was hot and steamy. And damn if I didn't find myself falling and rooting for BOTH Callum AND Paris and that was something I just didn't see coming. Usually when there is a triangle you want one over the other... but whenever Ileana was with one I found myself rooting for him - go figure!
Each of these main characters seem to have suffered from some sort of tragedy in their past. we find out about Ileana's and Paris's and they seem to bond over it. Callum just seems to have deep secrets that he holds close to his chest - but they seem very dark and sad and tragic. Their pasts have shaped the people they are today and the paths that they now walk. Whether chosen or forced upon them. This is a fascinating tale. The way Nazarea spins the Greek mythology with the modern world of organized crime had me spellbound. I cannot wait to read the next book : Shattered Love Story!
I definitely recommend this story! If you are a fan of gripping tales, erotic love stories, mafia stories, don't miss out! I am so thrilled I picked this one up!
I received a complimentary copy of Stardust Destiny in exchange for my honest review.
I was drawn into Nazarea's writing right from the start. But let me also be candid and get all of your pesky hot buttons dealt with from the get-go. YES there IS cheating. Dude, this is a retelling of the story of Helen of Troy. And she remains faithful to it. So you know there will be a love triangle and being faithful to one person is not going to be part of the story. Do you need to be familiar and well versed in Greek mythology to love and appreciate this book? HELL NO! Now the other hot button for some of ya... yes this is a cliffy. There is so much jam packed in this book there would have been no way to end it all here. So yes you need to wait for the next book to have all of your questions answered.
Stardust Destiny gripped me from the start and held my attention through the whole book. It was raw and addictive. It was hot and steamy. And damn if I didn't find myself falling and rooting for BOTH Callum AND Paris and that was something I just didn't see coming. Usually when there is a triangle you want one over the other... but whenever Ileana was with one I found myself rooting for him - go figure!
Each of these main characters seem to have suffered from some sort of tragedy in their past. we find out about Ileana's and Paris's and they seem to bond over it. Callum just seems to have deep secrets that he holds close to his chest - but they seem very dark and sad and tragic. Their pasts have shaped the people they are today and the paths that they now walk. Whether chosen or forced upon them. This is a fascinating tale. The way Nazarea spins the Greek mythology with the modern world of organized crime had me spellbound. I cannot wait to read the next book : Shattered Love Story!
I definitely recommend this story! If you are a fan of gripping tales, erotic love stories, mafia stories, don't miss out! I am so thrilled I picked this one up!
I received a complimentary copy of Stardust Destiny in exchange for my honest review.
February 11, 2016
There are days when I watch a “Walking Dead” episode and find myself thinking, “Eh, it could have used more Daryl, Rick, and zombies to make this episode better.” Or, I’ll find myself reading a book and think, “Well, it was a good plot but it could have been executed better.” But I have never (NEVER!) walked away from a Nazarea Andrews book without being in a state of wonderment regarding everything that I had just read. N has this wonderful knack for plotting out the best stories, writing the best characters, and bringing the best of everything to the forefront and leaving you in amazement. Stardust Destiny proves this! I mean, who thinks of retelling the story of Helen of Troy but sets it in a modern day world and tops it off with a mobster twist? N does!
I found the interweaving of the creative characters from N’s mind and the story of Helen from mythology to be captivating and vividly unique. In Stardust Destiny, the moment Ileana and Paris meet, you feel the combustibility of their want for each other, but it is forbidden and wrong (but yes, oh, so right!) However, not all of this book is built around their passion. As a reader, you are enlightened as to why Ileana’s dark past has her labeled as “crazy” and why years ago, a deal was struck for her to marry a man named Callan to educe peace throughout the Families. A loveless marriage has been set up for Ileana until Paris comes along.
And I don’t have a gif of grabby hands right now but that is exactly what I am doing because I cannot wait for the next installment.
That’s all I am giving you. You know that this book is going to be amazing because N wrote it so go out and get it. You can thank me later by letting me know how much you liked it.
I found the interweaving of the creative characters from N’s mind and the story of Helen from mythology to be captivating and vividly unique. In Stardust Destiny, the moment Ileana and Paris meet, you feel the combustibility of their want for each other, but it is forbidden and wrong (but yes, oh, so right!) However, not all of this book is built around their passion. As a reader, you are enlightened as to why Ileana’s dark past has her labeled as “crazy” and why years ago, a deal was struck for her to marry a man named Callan to educe peace throughout the Families. A loveless marriage has been set up for Ileana until Paris comes along.
And I don’t have a gif of grabby hands right now but that is exactly what I am doing because I cannot wait for the next installment.
That’s all I am giving you. You know that this book is going to be amazing because N wrote it so go out and get it. You can thank me later by letting me know how much you liked it.
February 15, 2016
Stardust Destiny
By Nazarea Andrews
5 Stars.
Let me just start by saying that this genre was not my thing, well, so I thought. When I read the blurb, I had high expectations. I am huge Roman/ Greek history buff/nerd and I love all the stories, both from mythology and wars, especially the Athenian battles, and who could forget the Aeneid by Virgil. I also want to mention that I rooted for Hector in the original story, and never in a million years I would have changed my mind. Like I said, I had high expectations. And then this book happened, and I am now re - reading the original story because this is a way I did not interpret their love. Paris and Ileana's story is truly remarkable. I cannot hate Cal because he could have chosen to be an a-hole while married to her but he respected her and I have to give him props for that; however, it was the little things that did it for me. I loved how Achilles was portrayed with somewhat of a human side, and I love how Paris wasn't the sleezeball that a lot of interpretors try to make him, but a man that falls to his knees and throws away years of history for the love of his life. I love how Ileana is not willing to be satisfied with the cards she was dealt. I loved how they portrayed her as a badass since most interpreters I've read talk about her like the ultimate doormat through about half of the original story. I loved seeing the characters' values enhanced and I also loved that the author didn't assume that people knew this story and took her time in explaining how each faction worked. Overall, I cannot wait for part 2 to release and to see how the epic battle of Hector and Paris takes place. I loved it. I am a believer.
Review by Laura
By Nazarea Andrews
5 Stars.
Let me just start by saying that this genre was not my thing, well, so I thought. When I read the blurb, I had high expectations. I am huge Roman/ Greek history buff/nerd and I love all the stories, both from mythology and wars, especially the Athenian battles, and who could forget the Aeneid by Virgil. I also want to mention that I rooted for Hector in the original story, and never in a million years I would have changed my mind. Like I said, I had high expectations. And then this book happened, and I am now re - reading the original story because this is a way I did not interpret their love. Paris and Ileana's story is truly remarkable. I cannot hate Cal because he could have chosen to be an a-hole while married to her but he respected her and I have to give him props for that; however, it was the little things that did it for me. I loved how Achilles was portrayed with somewhat of a human side, and I love how Paris wasn't the sleezeball that a lot of interpretors try to make him, but a man that falls to his knees and throws away years of history for the love of his life. I love how Ileana is not willing to be satisfied with the cards she was dealt. I loved how they portrayed her as a badass since most interpreters I've read talk about her like the ultimate doormat through about half of the original story. I loved seeing the characters' values enhanced and I also loved that the author didn't assume that people knew this story and took her time in explaining how each faction worked. Overall, I cannot wait for part 2 to release and to see how the epic battle of Hector and Paris takes place. I loved it. I am a believer.
Review by Laura
February 25, 2016
I love mob stories. I LOVED the Sopranos, I love reading books about Al Capone, and any book with a mob theme (especially if it includes a love story) in general. I am convinced I was a gangster in a former life.
I'm serious.
I also LOVE retellings. Ten Things I Hate About You is one of my favorite movies ever. I love everything by Gregory Maguire. Wicked, the book and musical, I adore. I devoured the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer.
Stardust Destiny is a retelling of Helen of Troy. In a modern, mob family style setting.
CAN YOU SEE WHY I AM EXCITED?
Ileana Orsi is set to marry Callum Sheehan, in order to protect the Orsi dynasty, and Ileana. It was decided among all mob families involved that this would be the best thing to keep the peace between everyone. Ileana never fought it or questioned it. Until she gets one night out right before her wedding, and a stranger flips her world upside down. She thinks she will never see him again, so she certainly didn't expect him to be at her wedding. Or a member of one of the families protecting her and working with her husband.
I could go on and on about this one, but I will try to keep it short. I loved everything about this book. I know, its a tragic story and there are also varying accounts about Helen of Troy and Paris BUT that is the thing about writing fiction. You can tell a story with your own spin on it and that is exactly what Andrews has done.
Five stars. Definitely. Highly recommend this one.
I'm serious.
I also LOVE retellings. Ten Things I Hate About You is one of my favorite movies ever. I love everything by Gregory Maguire. Wicked, the book and musical, I adore. I devoured the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer.
Stardust Destiny is a retelling of Helen of Troy. In a modern, mob family style setting.
CAN YOU SEE WHY I AM EXCITED?
Ileana Orsi is set to marry Callum Sheehan, in order to protect the Orsi dynasty, and Ileana. It was decided among all mob families involved that this would be the best thing to keep the peace between everyone. Ileana never fought it or questioned it. Until she gets one night out right before her wedding, and a stranger flips her world upside down. She thinks she will never see him again, so she certainly didn't expect him to be at her wedding. Or a member of one of the families protecting her and working with her husband.
I could go on and on about this one, but I will try to keep it short. I loved everything about this book. I know, its a tragic story and there are also varying accounts about Helen of Troy and Paris BUT that is the thing about writing fiction. You can tell a story with your own spin on it and that is exactly what Andrews has done.
Five stars. Definitely. Highly recommend this one.
February 23, 2016
"I need to wash off the feel of him" says Ileana. The feelings and emotions run high in this re-telling of the Helen of Troy. N keeps your suspense and attention on high even though you might be familiar with the story plot. Ileana and Paris are the couple you have been waiting to read about. N's ability to maintain complex characters throughout the storytelling is a talent above the rest.
February 19, 2016
**Spoiler Free**
After reading several book by this author, it doesn't surprise me that she has again out done herself in writing! This book is amazing! If you haven't read this genera before, you will after reading this book! Not one to disappoint!
*Received for an honest review*
After reading several book by this author, it doesn't surprise me that she has again out done herself in writing! This book is amazing! If you haven't read this genera before, you will after reading this book! Not one to disappoint!
*Received for an honest review*
March 1, 2016
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
I love books that reimagine old stories, I'm the girl who likes fairytales retold, or modern day retellings of Shakespeare. But this book super intrigued me because I've never read a retelling Helen of Troy, so I was really excited about this book. I have to say if you don't read anymore of the review, just know that I really loved it, and my biggest complaint is having to wait for book two to come out in few months.
So Ileana is our heroine, and man before this book even starts she has had a hard life. She's the daughter of a big time mob family, and when she was young, in an effort to support peace between the families, it was decided that she would basically be given the head of another mob family to marry, essentially a royal merging. I have to say, she makes me sad during so much of this book. She is resigned to doing the right thing for her family, and going through with this marriage, despite the fact that she's basically never had any freedom or ability to do anything she's really ever wanted to do. And her relationship with her family is not the best, there is some interesting family drama as well as some family trauma going on to cause this, but it's sad that she really has no one to trust or turn to when she just wants to talk. So right before the wedding Ileana decides to have just a few moments to herself, enter Paris. Paris is the first person to really make her feel alive, and the person that Ileana starts to become as the book continues just made me so happy. I am so excited to watch her get stronger and more sure of herself in the next book.
Now as for Paris, oh sweet Paris. He is the bad boy in every way you would want him to be. He is from yet a different mob family, and to say he is off limits, or rather than Ileana is off limits to him, would probably be one of the biggest understatements ever. Of course neither of them knew who the other one was when they met, so when they figure it out on the day of her wedding, well let's just say its a recipe for disaster. What I loved about Paris is how he plays up the whole man-child persona, it keeps people from really taking him seriously, but ultimately he is always watching and observing and he takes his duty to his family very seriously. I also loved how much he wanted Ileana, how he was there for her whenever he possibly could be, even when he knew it was going to come at a cost to himself.
There is so much amazing angst in this story, that it just kept me going from start to finish. The biggest disappointment for me is that I have to wait until the next book comes out to see how things end up for Ileana. I loved the mob component of the book, and I thought it was really interesting. There are a lot of really dynamic secondary characters in this book, and while it took a minute for me to get them all straight in my head, they definitely make things interesting. If you like mob books, you should without a doubt check out this book.
I love books that reimagine old stories, I'm the girl who likes fairytales retold, or modern day retellings of Shakespeare. But this book super intrigued me because I've never read a retelling Helen of Troy, so I was really excited about this book. I have to say if you don't read anymore of the review, just know that I really loved it, and my biggest complaint is having to wait for book two to come out in few months.
So Ileana is our heroine, and man before this book even starts she has had a hard life. She's the daughter of a big time mob family, and when she was young, in an effort to support peace between the families, it was decided that she would basically be given the head of another mob family to marry, essentially a royal merging. I have to say, she makes me sad during so much of this book. She is resigned to doing the right thing for her family, and going through with this marriage, despite the fact that she's basically never had any freedom or ability to do anything she's really ever wanted to do. And her relationship with her family is not the best, there is some interesting family drama as well as some family trauma going on to cause this, but it's sad that she really has no one to trust or turn to when she just wants to talk. So right before the wedding Ileana decides to have just a few moments to herself, enter Paris. Paris is the first person to really make her feel alive, and the person that Ileana starts to become as the book continues just made me so happy. I am so excited to watch her get stronger and more sure of herself in the next book.
Now as for Paris, oh sweet Paris. He is the bad boy in every way you would want him to be. He is from yet a different mob family, and to say he is off limits, or rather than Ileana is off limits to him, would probably be one of the biggest understatements ever. Of course neither of them knew who the other one was when they met, so when they figure it out on the day of her wedding, well let's just say its a recipe for disaster. What I loved about Paris is how he plays up the whole man-child persona, it keeps people from really taking him seriously, but ultimately he is always watching and observing and he takes his duty to his family very seriously. I also loved how much he wanted Ileana, how he was there for her whenever he possibly could be, even when he knew it was going to come at a cost to himself.
There is so much amazing angst in this story, that it just kept me going from start to finish. The biggest disappointment for me is that I have to wait until the next book comes out to see how things end up for Ileana. I loved the mob component of the book, and I thought it was really interesting. There are a lot of really dynamic secondary characters in this book, and while it took a minute for me to get them all straight in my head, they definitely make things interesting. If you like mob books, you should without a doubt check out this book.
February 13, 2017
There are days when I watch a “Walking Dead” episode and find myself thinking, “Eh, it could have used more Daryl, Rick, and zombies to make this episode better.” Or, I’ll find myself reading a book and think, “Well, it was a good plot but it could have been executed better.” But I have never (NEVER!) walked away from a Nazarea Andrews book without being in a state of wonderment regarding everything that I had just read. N has this wonderful knack for plotting out the best stories, writing the best characters, and bringing the best of everything to the forefront and leaving you in amazement. Stardust Destiny proves this! I mean, who thinks of retelling the story of Helen of Troy but sets it in a modern day world and tops it off with a mobster twist? N does!
I found the interweaving of the creative characters from N’s mind and the story of Helen from mythology to be captivating and vividly unique. In Stardust Destiny, the moment Ileana and Paris meet, you feel the combustibility of their want for each other, but it is forbidden and wrong (but yes, oh, so right!) However, not all of this book is built around their passion. As a reader, you are enlightened as to why Ileana’s dark past has her labeled as “crazy” and why years ago, a deal was struck for her to marry a man named Callan to educe peace throughout the Families. A loveless marriage has been set up for Ileana until Paris comes along.
And I don’t have a gif of grabby hands right now but that is exactly what I am doing because I cannot wait for the next installment.
That’s all I am giving you. You know that this book is going to be amazing because N wrote it so go out and get it. You can thank me later by letting me know how much you liked it. ~BookWHisperer Reviewer MC~
I found the interweaving of the creative characters from N’s mind and the story of Helen from mythology to be captivating and vividly unique. In Stardust Destiny, the moment Ileana and Paris meet, you feel the combustibility of their want for each other, but it is forbidden and wrong (but yes, oh, so right!) However, not all of this book is built around their passion. As a reader, you are enlightened as to why Ileana’s dark past has her labeled as “crazy” and why years ago, a deal was struck for her to marry a man named Callan to educe peace throughout the Families. A loveless marriage has been set up for Ileana until Paris comes along.
And I don’t have a gif of grabby hands right now but that is exactly what I am doing because I cannot wait for the next installment.
That’s all I am giving you. You know that this book is going to be amazing because N wrote it so go out and get it. You can thank me later by letting me know how much you liked it. ~BookWHisperer Reviewer MC~
April 11, 2016
First posted at Words Fueled by Love.
An easy, fast and enjoyable story! Not being familiar with the Helen of Troy story, I was able to enjoy the plot line. I never can seem to pass up a mafia, romeo/juliet storyline.
An Italian mafia princess from Miami, Ileana, is being forced to marry an Irish mob boss from Chicago, Callan, to form an alliance between all the mob families, but yet she falls in love with someone else. What throws a kicker in the story is that her husband, although feared among the mob families for good reason as the lethal man he is, he is an honorable man when it comes to his treatment of her. What he doesn't do though, is support her interests as heir of her mob family when she voices her desire in taking control over it. What he really wants is the pretty trophy wife to do as she's told. As such, he severely underestimates her.
Ileana has had a rough life, and she's only in her mid twenties. At age 12 she was stolen from her family by another mob family, raped daily, tortured for weeks and watched her brother be beaten for her disobedience. Then at age 14 she's promised off to be married to one of the mob sons. For 12 years she waits knowing her fate is to marry someone she barely knows, and definitely doesn't love. She's been groomed for this one role. Because she loves her family, she's willing to submit to their wishes. Until two days before her wedding she's allowed one night. One night of relative freedom. One night to make her own decisions without the family knowing about it. That one night changes everything for her.
Aside from some grammatical errors, these 165 pages went by super fast! I've read multiple books of Nazarea's and they all seem to always have grammatical errors. But her writing always pulls me in. I enjoy her stories and find them very entertaining.
There's major heat! Among the New Adult books this one falls in the range of very high language and mature content.
Favorite Quotes:
-the mafia, be it Italian, Irish or Russian - is very much a boys' world. I'm not ever going to be invited to sit at the table with them.
"Because as much as you think this is just for the alliance - I do care about the girl I married. I don't want to terrorize you. I want this to work, for us, as much as for the alliance."
Language: 3 (high)
Mature Content: 3 (high)
Final Rating: 3.5 stars
An easy, fast and enjoyable story! Not being familiar with the Helen of Troy story, I was able to enjoy the plot line. I never can seem to pass up a mafia, romeo/juliet storyline.
An Italian mafia princess from Miami, Ileana, is being forced to marry an Irish mob boss from Chicago, Callan, to form an alliance between all the mob families, but yet she falls in love with someone else. What throws a kicker in the story is that her husband, although feared among the mob families for good reason as the lethal man he is, he is an honorable man when it comes to his treatment of her. What he doesn't do though, is support her interests as heir of her mob family when she voices her desire in taking control over it. What he really wants is the pretty trophy wife to do as she's told. As such, he severely underestimates her.
Ileana has had a rough life, and she's only in her mid twenties. At age 12 she was stolen from her family by another mob family, raped daily, tortured for weeks and watched her brother be beaten for her disobedience. Then at age 14 she's promised off to be married to one of the mob sons. For 12 years she waits knowing her fate is to marry someone she barely knows, and definitely doesn't love. She's been groomed for this one role. Because she loves her family, she's willing to submit to their wishes. Until two days before her wedding she's allowed one night. One night of relative freedom. One night to make her own decisions without the family knowing about it. That one night changes everything for her.
Aside from some grammatical errors, these 165 pages went by super fast! I've read multiple books of Nazarea's and they all seem to always have grammatical errors. But her writing always pulls me in. I enjoy her stories and find them very entertaining.
There's major heat! Among the New Adult books this one falls in the range of very high language and mature content.
Favorite Quotes:
-the mafia, be it Italian, Irish or Russian - is very much a boys' world. I'm not ever going to be invited to sit at the table with them.
"Because as much as you think this is just for the alliance - I do care about the girl I married. I don't want to terrorize you. I want this to work, for us, as much as for the alliance."
Language: 3 (high)
Mature Content: 3 (high)
Final Rating: 3.5 stars
February 17, 2016
3.5 Cocktails.
Full review to come.
Merged review:
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
STARDUST DESTINY is Nazarea Andrews retelling of the story of Helen of Troy. The woman who's face launched a thousand ships and caused a huge war. Except in this telling, the story involves the mob and not the Greek Gods.
Ileana is the beautiful daughter used as a pawn in an attempt to keep piece among the major crime families across the globe. Paris is the second son of a Mexican drug cartel head. Both are meant to do what their families dictate, but a chance meeting one night leads to Illy and Paris to buck their responsibilities and fight for what they want.
STARDUST DESTINY was different. I liked the mob aspect to this classic story. It played in well in this retelling. It was believable that Illy would be used as a pawn for peace. Basically sold to the highest bidder to not only ensure her family's standing and increase their power. And then there was Paris. The playboy who's only role in his family's drug empire was to do as he was told and look pretty. But the two of them together discover they can only trust each other as they Illy tries to claim her birthright and Paris works to make her his.
If you're looking for something a little different, this might be one to pick up. This wasn't my favorite of Nazarea Andrews, but it was still a solid story and has me intrigued as to what comes next for this hero and heroine.
Full review to come.
Merged review:
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
STARDUST DESTINY is Nazarea Andrews retelling of the story of Helen of Troy. The woman who's face launched a thousand ships and caused a huge war. Except in this telling, the story involves the mob and not the Greek Gods.
Ileana is the beautiful daughter used as a pawn in an attempt to keep piece among the major crime families across the globe. Paris is the second son of a Mexican drug cartel head. Both are meant to do what their families dictate, but a chance meeting one night leads to Illy and Paris to buck their responsibilities and fight for what they want.
STARDUST DESTINY was different. I liked the mob aspect to this classic story. It played in well in this retelling. It was believable that Illy would be used as a pawn for peace. Basically sold to the highest bidder to not only ensure her family's standing and increase their power. And then there was Paris. The playboy who's only role in his family's drug empire was to do as he was told and look pretty. But the two of them together discover they can only trust each other as they Illy tries to claim her birthright and Paris works to make her his.
If you're looking for something a little different, this might be one to pick up. This wasn't my favorite of Nazarea Andrews, but it was still a solid story and has me intrigued as to what comes next for this hero and heroine.
Want to read
March 11, 2016OMG....I NEED this. Gorgeous cover, and the synopsis has me hooked COMPLETELY.
February 17, 2016
One of my favorite myths/stories is about Helen of Troy and the Trojan Horse, so I was keen on reading this ARC as soon as it was presented to me. At first I felt a little lost in the beginning because Ileana's story isn't completely told. We are just led to believe she is crazy without giving a reason why. As the story furthers on we eventually find out why she isn't completely sane, but I felt like I was grasping for straws before the story was told. Truth be told, I feel it should have been addressed earlier in the book and it would have held my attention more. Once I got through the first several chapters, it picked up and I enjoyed the story.
A couple things to know. The story does contain cheating. You couldn't have a retelling of the Trojan Horse/Helen of Troy without it. I mean that is the basis of that myth. Secondly, it ends in a cliffhanger.
I have listed it as a 4 star because it doesn't let you do half stars, but I would say this is more of a 3.5 star read for me.
Merged review:
One of my favorite myths/stories is about Helen of Troy and the Trojan Horse, so I was keen on reading this ARC as soon as it was presented to me. At first I felt a little lost in the beginning because Ileana's story isn't completely told. We are just led to believe she is crazy without giving a reason why. As the story furthers on we eventually find out why she isn't completely sane, but I felt like I was grasping for straws before the story was told. Truth be told, I feel it should have been addressed earlier in the book and it would have held my attention more. Once I got through the first several chapters, it picked up and I enjoyed the story.
A couple things to know. The story does contain cheating. You couldn't have a retelling of the Trojan Horse/Helen of Troy without it. I mean that is the basis of that myth. Secondly, it ends in a cliffhanger.
I have listed it as a 4 star because it doesn't let you do half stars, but I would say this is more of a 3.5 star read for me.
A couple things to know. The story does contain cheating. You couldn't have a retelling of the Trojan Horse/Helen of Troy without it. I mean that is the basis of that myth. Secondly, it ends in a cliffhanger.
I have listed it as a 4 star because it doesn't let you do half stars, but I would say this is more of a 3.5 star read for me.
Merged review:
One of my favorite myths/stories is about Helen of Troy and the Trojan Horse, so I was keen on reading this ARC as soon as it was presented to me. At first I felt a little lost in the beginning because Ileana's story isn't completely told. We are just led to believe she is crazy without giving a reason why. As the story furthers on we eventually find out why she isn't completely sane, but I felt like I was grasping for straws before the story was told. Truth be told, I feel it should have been addressed earlier in the book and it would have held my attention more. Once I got through the first several chapters, it picked up and I enjoyed the story.
A couple things to know. The story does contain cheating. You couldn't have a retelling of the Trojan Horse/Helen of Troy without it. I mean that is the basis of that myth. Secondly, it ends in a cliffhanger.
I have listed it as a 4 star because it doesn't let you do half stars, but I would say this is more of a 3.5 star read for me.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews