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Ivory and Bone #2
Obsidian and Stars
In the sequel to Ivory and Bone—the prehistoric fantasy novel that New York Times bestselling author Amie Kaufman described as a “richly crafted world of life-and-death stakes”—the story shifts to Mya’s viewpoint as vengeful adversaries force her to flee the life she once knew.
After surviving the chaotic battle that erupted after Lo and the Bosha clan attacked, now Mya is looking ahead to her future with Kol. All the things that once felt so uncertain are finally falling into place. But the same night as Kol and Mya’s betrothal announcement, Mya’s brother Chev reveals his plan to marry his youngest sister Lees to his friend Morsk. The only way to avoid this terrible turn of events, Morsk informs Mya when he corners her later, is for Mya to take Lees’ place and marry him herself.
Refusing to marry anyone other than her beloved, and in an effort to protect her sister, Mya runs away to a secret island with Lees. And though it seems like the safest place to hide until things back home blow over, Mya soon realizes she’s been followed. Lurking deep in the recesses of this dangerous place are rivals from Mya’s past whose thirst for revenge exceeds all reason.
With the lives of her loved ones on the line, Mya must make a move before the enemies of her past become the undoing of her future.
After surviving the chaotic battle that erupted after Lo and the Bosha clan attacked, now Mya is looking ahead to her future with Kol. All the things that once felt so uncertain are finally falling into place. But the same night as Kol and Mya’s betrothal announcement, Mya’s brother Chev reveals his plan to marry his youngest sister Lees to his friend Morsk. The only way to avoid this terrible turn of events, Morsk informs Mya when he corners her later, is for Mya to take Lees’ place and marry him herself.
Refusing to marry anyone other than her beloved, and in an effort to protect her sister, Mya runs away to a secret island with Lees. And though it seems like the safest place to hide until things back home blow over, Mya soon realizes she’s been followed. Lurking deep in the recesses of this dangerous place are rivals from Mya’s past whose thirst for revenge exceeds all reason.
With the lives of her loved ones on the line, Mya must make a move before the enemies of her past become the undoing of her future.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published June 13, 2017
30 people are currently reading
3721 people want to read
About the author
Julie Eshbaugh
4 books490 followersJulie Eshbaugh is a YA writer and former filmmaker. She made two short films and then spent several years producing an online video series for teens which received several honors from the Webby Awards. Her YA fantasy standalone, CROWN OF OBLIVION, was released by Quill Tree Books in November 2019. She is also the author of IVORY AND BONE (HarperTeen 2016) and OBSIDIAN AND STARS (HarperTeen 2017). You can learn more about Julie’s writing escapades by visiting www.julieeshbaugh.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 2, 2017
So what is Obsidian and Stars?
Effortlessly resonanting with timeless themes and harrowing action cinematics sure to freeze the blood and jelly the spine against the backdrop of an imagantively ancient, magnificently beautiful and immutably deadly stage, Obsidian and Stars from Julie Eshbaugh is a sequel so incredible it’s like getting your favorite band’s follow up album and going...wow. Wow! WOW!
Then you end up wondering if you like the first or second book better, because they’re so good...so different...but still...so harmonious. Two halves of one whole. The sun and the moon. The right and left hand...
Wait, am I talking about the books?
Or am I talking about Kol and Mya?
From the first word, the narrative belongs to Mya. Strong, dynamic, self-contained, tragically conflicted Mya. Lightining in a bottle Mya. Beautiful, passionate, perfectly flawed Mya, ready to begin a brand new life with the one she loves, only to find, all too soon, it is that very life-changing desicion she has made which will ignite the fuse of destiny and push her down a dark and dangerous path, fraught with enough life and death drama to steal the sleep of every reader who dares tread alongside Mya and her many tests and trials under the thumb of The Divine and the frozen cauldron of prehistoric betrothal and familial betrayal.
Bridezillas, eat your heart out.
This is drama.
Mya shocked me in all the best ways, because in Ivory and Bone, she is a puzzle of near mystical locks and keys. I didn’t know who she was as much as I knew how much Kol loved her. The nebulous beauty of her soul was like a swathe of stars in the sky, but...obscured by clouds. Covered. Hidden. But listening to her talk, and walking her walk, and feeling the immense burden placed upon her and sifting through her emotions and her senses, seeing with her eyes, I was struck with how much I could relate to her, and how much I knew her down to the depths of her darkest night.
How much she was a lot like me.
And maybe even a lot like you.
Whoever you may be, it’s very easy to like Obsidian and Stars. Especially if you’ve spent the time with Ivory and Bone, as Julie Eshbaugh’s skillfully sense-driven prose is as sure-handed, perfectly balanced and as razor sharp as a hunting spear, with act two of Mya and Kol and the Clans thrilling and satisfying and romantic to the very end.
My deepest gratitude and heart-felt thanks to Julie Eshbaugh and HarperTeen for this fantastic signed paperback ARC which makes me feel like...well, like a member of the family, pulling up a mat under the rippling bigtop of the communal mammoth-hide tent to share the marvelous magic of an amazing story.
Recommended for everyone.
Effortlessly resonanting with timeless themes and harrowing action cinematics sure to freeze the blood and jelly the spine against the backdrop of an imagantively ancient, magnificently beautiful and immutably deadly stage, Obsidian and Stars from Julie Eshbaugh is a sequel so incredible it’s like getting your favorite band’s follow up album and going...wow. Wow! WOW!
Then you end up wondering if you like the first or second book better, because they’re so good...so different...but still...so harmonious. Two halves of one whole. The sun and the moon. The right and left hand...
Wait, am I talking about the books?
Or am I talking about Kol and Mya?
From the first word, the narrative belongs to Mya. Strong, dynamic, self-contained, tragically conflicted Mya. Lightining in a bottle Mya. Beautiful, passionate, perfectly flawed Mya, ready to begin a brand new life with the one she loves, only to find, all too soon, it is that very life-changing desicion she has made which will ignite the fuse of destiny and push her down a dark and dangerous path, fraught with enough life and death drama to steal the sleep of every reader who dares tread alongside Mya and her many tests and trials under the thumb of The Divine and the frozen cauldron of prehistoric betrothal and familial betrayal.
Bridezillas, eat your heart out.
This is drama.
Mya shocked me in all the best ways, because in Ivory and Bone, she is a puzzle of near mystical locks and keys. I didn’t know who she was as much as I knew how much Kol loved her. The nebulous beauty of her soul was like a swathe of stars in the sky, but...obscured by clouds. Covered. Hidden. But listening to her talk, and walking her walk, and feeling the immense burden placed upon her and sifting through her emotions and her senses, seeing with her eyes, I was struck with how much I could relate to her, and how much I knew her down to the depths of her darkest night.
How much she was a lot like me.
And maybe even a lot like you.
Whoever you may be, it’s very easy to like Obsidian and Stars. Especially if you’ve spent the time with Ivory and Bone, as Julie Eshbaugh’s skillfully sense-driven prose is as sure-handed, perfectly balanced and as razor sharp as a hunting spear, with act two of Mya and Kol and the Clans thrilling and satisfying and romantic to the very end.
My deepest gratitude and heart-felt thanks to Julie Eshbaugh and HarperTeen for this fantastic signed paperback ARC which makes me feel like...well, like a member of the family, pulling up a mat under the rippling bigtop of the communal mammoth-hide tent to share the marvelous magic of an amazing story.
Recommended for everyone.
December 6, 2017
I listened to this on audio and I really don't think that format suited it. Or at least the narrator didn't do it any favors. It was narrated by Suzanne Elise Freeman and while her dialogue was fine, she read the long stretches of descriptions in a pretty lifeless way that didn't engage me at all, particularly during action scenes. I zoned out very easily and know that I did not absorb this story as much as I did the first book, which I read in print.
It's hard to tell whether all of my issues with not being engaged were due to just the narration or in part due to the writing as well. It did seem to me like not much happened. A lot of time was spent focusing on doing this one task that it seemed everything would hinge on and then it resolved easily. A bunch of characters were suddenly thrown in and the clans started to go to war but I could not remember all of the names and alliances so I was not invested in the outcome.
I really like Mya and Kol as characters though. Ultimately, I wish I had read a print copy to better take in the urgency of the action scenes and remember details. As it was, I don't think this was a particularly necessary sequel. Will probably still read the 3rd book though.
It's hard to tell whether all of my issues with not being engaged were due to just the narration or in part due to the writing as well. It did seem to me like not much happened. A lot of time was spent focusing on doing this one task that it seemed everything would hinge on and then it resolved easily. A bunch of characters were suddenly thrown in and the clans started to go to war but I could not remember all of the names and alliances so I was not invested in the outcome.
I really like Mya and Kol as characters though. Ultimately, I wish I had read a print copy to better take in the urgency of the action scenes and remember details. As it was, I don't think this was a particularly necessary sequel. Will probably still read the 3rd book though.
July 21, 2017
[2.5 stars] If you caught my recent review of Ivory and Bone, you’ll remember me saying I really enjoyed the book, but had a few issues with the logistics feeling a bit forced. Eshbaugh was modeling the story after Pride and Prejudice, trying to follow the same basic storyline. My hope going into Obsidian and Stars was that it would feel a little more organic and free-flowing – which it actually did. The trouble is, I found a different set of issues to complain about long the way…
Obsidian and Stars lost a bit of the magic that made Ivory and Bone so unique. The creative story construction in I&B around an atypical narrative was my favorite part – it was presented as recounting, where a boy told the girl his perspective from the point when they first met. It was so cool! In O&S, however, the POV switched to straightforward first-person. There was also very minimal cultural immersion, which took away the other element that set Ivory and Bone apart. The one consistency I can praise is Eshbaugh’s beautiful writing voice – if I finish the series, it might be for that alone.
My biggest issue, however, were the conflicts.
Most of the obstacles the character faced in Obsidian and Stars were caused by what I viewed as bad decision-making and a general lack of common sense… almost to an infuriating degree. Because of this, I felt very un-invested for most of the novel while they ran around fixing these self-induced problems (most of which also felt incredibly unfeasible – the juxtaposition between teen angst toleration and the harsh realities of prehistoric life are pretty laughable. I overlooked it in I&B, but I lost patience in the second). Furthermore, all of the remaining conflicts were so similar to what happened in the first book that I found myself losing interest even further to the point where it was a struggle to finish.
I’d really hoped the second book would’ve taken the story beyond the narrow framework of the first and really expanded on this cool setting. Despite my disappointment with Obsidian and Stars, I like Eshbaugh’s writing voice and the basic components to her story well enough that I might still pick up the third book when it comes out in 2018. I’m just really hoping when I do I’ll see stronger conflicts and a heavier focus on the things that make this series special.
Other books you might like:
Flame in the Mist - Renee Ahdieh
Soundless - Richelle Mead
The Glittering Court - Richelle Mead
The Girl of Fire and Thorns - Rae Carson
Cinder - Marissa Meyer
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Obsidian and Stars lost a bit of the magic that made Ivory and Bone so unique. The creative story construction in I&B around an atypical narrative was my favorite part – it was presented as recounting, where a boy told the girl his perspective from the point when they first met. It was so cool! In O&S, however, the POV switched to straightforward first-person. There was also very minimal cultural immersion, which took away the other element that set Ivory and Bone apart. The one consistency I can praise is Eshbaugh’s beautiful writing voice – if I finish the series, it might be for that alone.
My biggest issue, however, were the conflicts.
Most of the obstacles the character faced in Obsidian and Stars were caused by what I viewed as bad decision-making and a general lack of common sense… almost to an infuriating degree. Because of this, I felt very un-invested for most of the novel while they ran around fixing these self-induced problems (most of which also felt incredibly unfeasible – the juxtaposition between teen angst toleration and the harsh realities of prehistoric life are pretty laughable. I overlooked it in I&B, but I lost patience in the second). Furthermore, all of the remaining conflicts were so similar to what happened in the first book that I found myself losing interest even further to the point where it was a struggle to finish.
I’d really hoped the second book would’ve taken the story beyond the narrow framework of the first and really expanded on this cool setting. Despite my disappointment with Obsidian and Stars, I like Eshbaugh’s writing voice and the basic components to her story well enough that I might still pick up the third book when it comes out in 2018. I’m just really hoping when I do I’ll see stronger conflicts and a heavier focus on the things that make this series special.
Other books you might like:
Flame in the Mist - Renee Ahdieh
Soundless - Richelle Mead
The Glittering Court - Richelle Mead
The Girl of Fire and Thorns - Rae Carson
Cinder - Marissa Meyer
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
June 26, 2017
Crazy fast-pace happenings in this installment! I am actually really enjoying this series. Now to wait another year for the next installment. Sigh....
March 31, 2021
I have to give my hats off to Julie Eshbaugh for writing such tense fight scenes wrapped into such beautiful prose. This story is almost non-stop adventure right from the beginning. Every battle has authentic touches that never let me forget when we were. That thing I said in my review of IVORY AND BONE about the “dress”, forget I said that. Right away Mya is talking about her wedding dress and how she makes it. In fact, the dress and the tools are major factors in this story. Also, the world is vividly described so it’s as if I was right there.
Mya was such a mystery for me going into this story. I saw her the way Kol saw her and described her in IVORY AND BONE. She is a strong girl who values family above all else. Mya’s voiced proved her loyalty time and again. Mya wants to do the right things and will fight for justice. I am sad to say that this book is not written as if Mya is telling the story like the first book was. I loved that writing but this is a pretty good follow up.
The beautiful descriptive writing is still there, but in Mya’s POV. There was the introduction of a few new characters in this story which added to the story, and the clans. The big question after all the battles is how to remain true to their individual clans, aka family, while still becoming a couple. It doesn’t seem possible for these two distinct clans, with different traditions and customs to become one. I think the author solved this dilemma in the best way possible.
From what I understand, this will be the last book, so it ends up being a duo-logy instead of a trilogy. The ending in this book leaves no doubt that everything is as it should be for these characters. I really enjoyed these books. I felt they were wholly original and action packed.
Want to read
September 9, 2016I HAVE A MIGHTY NEED FOR THIS BOOK.
KOL.
MYA.
EVERYONE.
MORE MAMMOTHS?
KOL.
MYA.
EVERYONE.
MORE MAMMOTHS?
August 24, 2017
Review to come.
June 13, 2017
I am so fortunate to have received an ARC of this amazing book ahead of the presses! Eshbaugh completely floored me with the first installment of this series, and I knew I had a lot to look forward to with the second book. I award this book 4.5 stars.
Because the first book ended so perfectly and without a cliffhanger, I was wondering (and I'll admit a little worried) about how Eshbaugh would continue the story in the sequel. I shouldn't have worried--she got me to love a prehistoric fantasy after all, which I thought was impossible! We are re-introduced to the wonderful characters from the first. Kol, the beloved narrator from the first book, takes a bit of a backseat as we are now in a first person narrative of Mya, the girl he has fallen for literally and figuratively. Mya and Kol seem to be so close to their happily ever after, and yet, dissent still brews both internally and externally. The two clans struggle with combining forces as well as keeping their distinct cultures and history. Chev, Mya's older brother and leader of their clan, has passed a decree that causes Mya to make a drastic decision to preserve her younger sister's happiness. And while it made sense to me as a reader at the time, what follows at least makes me wonder if it was the right decision after all.
What I loved: Eshbaugh's writing is gorgeous, lush, and on point. As with the first book, I was drawn in with the lyrical prose. I'm a plot girl and typically just skip through description, but instead, I found myself just wanting to wrap myself in the warmth of her words. She absolutely amazes me. I loved getting to see Mya's perspective in this book, as she remains quite a mystery from the first. She is a powerful woman, and it's nice to see her coming into her own as a leader in her own right. I loved the introduction of a new character, Noni, but I won't say more to not spoil the reader. The book is fast paced and I tore through it in two days (would have been one, but I forced myself to go to sleep so I wouldn't be dying at work the next day). I really liked seeing Kol and Mya's relationship develop more, and getting to see the politics of the clans. I also loved the themes of clan versus family and different ways to lead for the same goals. I also marveled how this didn't feel like filler, but an entire encapsulated story on its own and beautifully done. Definitely no sophomore slump here!
Just a very small point, and this probably would have been rectified if I reread the first installment prior to reading the ARC, but especially with the introduction of so many new characters, it sometimes was hard keeping track of who everyone was. I did miss being in Kol's head, but that's probably because he's my book boyfriend.
Overall, I loved revisiting this world and the wonderful writing of Eshbaugh--this is a fantastic book. This second installment should be on the top of everyone's to read list!
Because the first book ended so perfectly and without a cliffhanger, I was wondering (and I'll admit a little worried) about how Eshbaugh would continue the story in the sequel. I shouldn't have worried--she got me to love a prehistoric fantasy after all, which I thought was impossible! We are re-introduced to the wonderful characters from the first. Kol, the beloved narrator from the first book, takes a bit of a backseat as we are now in a first person narrative of Mya, the girl he has fallen for literally and figuratively. Mya and Kol seem to be so close to their happily ever after, and yet, dissent still brews both internally and externally. The two clans struggle with combining forces as well as keeping their distinct cultures and history. Chev, Mya's older brother and leader of their clan, has passed a decree that causes Mya to make a drastic decision to preserve her younger sister's happiness. And while it made sense to me as a reader at the time, what follows at least makes me wonder if it was the right decision after all.
What I loved: Eshbaugh's writing is gorgeous, lush, and on point. As with the first book, I was drawn in with the lyrical prose. I'm a plot girl and typically just skip through description, but instead, I found myself just wanting to wrap myself in the warmth of her words. She absolutely amazes me. I loved getting to see Mya's perspective in this book, as she remains quite a mystery from the first. She is a powerful woman, and it's nice to see her coming into her own as a leader in her own right. I loved the introduction of a new character, Noni, but I won't say more to not spoil the reader. The book is fast paced and I tore through it in two days (would have been one, but I forced myself to go to sleep so I wouldn't be dying at work the next day). I really liked seeing Kol and Mya's relationship develop more, and getting to see the politics of the clans. I also loved the themes of clan versus family and different ways to lead for the same goals. I also marveled how this didn't feel like filler, but an entire encapsulated story on its own and beautifully done. Definitely no sophomore slump here!
Just a very small point, and this probably would have been rectified if I reread the first installment prior to reading the ARC, but especially with the introduction of so many new characters, it sometimes was hard keeping track of who everyone was. I did miss being in Kol's head, but that's probably because he's my book boyfriend.
Overall, I loved revisiting this world and the wonderful writing of Eshbaugh--this is a fantastic book. This second installment should be on the top of everyone's to read list!
May 4, 2017
This book 😍😍 loved it. sooo many times it brings you thru the feels, the roller coaster ride of emotion. I enjoyed book 1 but really loved book 2 story has action thru the whole book things I love. And this book shows even more friends stick together no matter what.
June 11, 2017
I am completely captivated by the setting of these books. It is so original. I've never read, or even heard of, another book set during this time period, and I am so impressed by the level of creativity that Julie displays not only in the premise of the story, but in the execution of it as well.
When I first reviewed Ivory and Bone, the first book in the series, I gave it a four-star rating. After finishing Obsidian and Stars though, I went back and bumped it up to a five-star, because in reading this book, I feel like I was better able to grasp the real brilliance of the first book as well.
Julie has such different approaches to the telling of each story. In Ivory and Bone, Kol narrates the story using second-person pronouns. This isn't something you see done often in literature, and it is something that has to be done with such skill in order to pull readers in, but in that book it truly feels like Kol is telling us a story, bringing it to life and making readers feel as if they are Mya. It's absolutely beautiful and so impressive.
In Obsidian and Stars, the POV switches, and we get to see this story from Mya's point of view. I very much enjoyed reading from her perspective. Mya is so intelligent, and she exhibits such strength of body, mind, and soul throughout the story. She is just a phenomenal female lead. And while Julie did not use the second-person pronouns in Obsidian and Stars that I so enjoyed in Ivory and Bone, she has taken a more plot-driven approach to this novel that I enjoyed just as much. This book is action-packed. There is blood, and tragedy, and romance, and it moves at a much faster pace than the first book did. I truly love them both for different reasons.
One of the really neat things about these books is that they're set in a prehistoric time period, and there are so many elements that do feel so true to the era. But at the same time, there is this overarching tone to them that very much reads like a Regency romance and is just so much fun.
Julie exhibits such skill in these books. I love to see the different writing techniques she employs to craft these stories, and I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us in the future!
When I first reviewed Ivory and Bone, the first book in the series, I gave it a four-star rating. After finishing Obsidian and Stars though, I went back and bumped it up to a five-star, because in reading this book, I feel like I was better able to grasp the real brilliance of the first book as well.
Julie has such different approaches to the telling of each story. In Ivory and Bone, Kol narrates the story using second-person pronouns. This isn't something you see done often in literature, and it is something that has to be done with such skill in order to pull readers in, but in that book it truly feels like Kol is telling us a story, bringing it to life and making readers feel as if they are Mya. It's absolutely beautiful and so impressive.
In Obsidian and Stars, the POV switches, and we get to see this story from Mya's point of view. I very much enjoyed reading from her perspective. Mya is so intelligent, and she exhibits such strength of body, mind, and soul throughout the story. She is just a phenomenal female lead. And while Julie did not use the second-person pronouns in Obsidian and Stars that I so enjoyed in Ivory and Bone, she has taken a more plot-driven approach to this novel that I enjoyed just as much. This book is action-packed. There is blood, and tragedy, and romance, and it moves at a much faster pace than the first book did. I truly love them both for different reasons.
One of the really neat things about these books is that they're set in a prehistoric time period, and there are so many elements that do feel so true to the era. But at the same time, there is this overarching tone to them that very much reads like a Regency romance and is just so much fun.
Julie exhibits such skill in these books. I love to see the different writing techniques she employs to craft these stories, and I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us in the future!
August 1, 2018
BookTube-A-Thon July 30, 2018 - August 5, 2018
Challenge #5 - Read a book with a beautiful spine
Challenge #5 - Read a book with a beautiful spine
August 4, 2017
No spoilers in this review! I give it 4 stars. I love re-visiting characters in which I’ve witnessed growth and development. It’s why I love to read series, and this is definitely the case with Kol and Mya, our two mains in this book. They have more growing to do in Obsidian and Stars, but as I read I realized just how far they’ve come since the beginning of Ivory and Bone.
The book opens with Mya sailing for the Manu camp. She’s wearing an intricately made piece of clothing she hopes will serve as her betrothal and wedding tunic someday. Mya’s embarrassed as she thinks about how everyone will know her intentions as soon as they see what she’s wearing. Yet she’s excited about the prospect of marrying Kol.
While some trust has developed between the three clans—the Manu (Kol’s), the Olen (Mya’s), and the Bosha—they still retain ultimate loyalty to their own people. It’s understandable since they have been individual clans, relying only on themselves, for so long. But it’s also frustrating, especially when Chev, Mya’s brother and the Olen High Elder, makes an extremely selfish choice.
Chev’s declaration prompts a plan, one that Mya devises and Kol (unbelievably) supports. It is dangerous and slowly spirals out of control. Mya and her sister Lees quickly land in peril, and all three clans are eventually in danger. The circumstances that evolve place a strain on Kol’s and Mya’s relationship and make it seem impossible the two of them will ever be together.
Despite plenty of action, I feel like Obsidian and Stars most often progressed at a meandering pace. Ivory and Bone did for the most part, too, but this is not a bad thing! I enjoyed the pacing and loved Eshbaugh’s descriptions of the lush northern landscape and clan customs. And I savored the thoughtful, meaningful conversations between our two main characters and others.
I definitely recommend this book if you’ve read Ivory and Bone. Obsidian and Stars is even better! And I also recommend this duology as a whole because of its beautiful prose and unique setting. It was fun being absorbed in this prehistoric, clan-based world, filled with loyalties and challenges unlike any others I’ve read about in recent memory.
Read all our reviews here .
Read our full book recaps here.
The book opens with Mya sailing for the Manu camp. She’s wearing an intricately made piece of clothing she hopes will serve as her betrothal and wedding tunic someday. Mya’s embarrassed as she thinks about how everyone will know her intentions as soon as they see what she’s wearing. Yet she’s excited about the prospect of marrying Kol.
While some trust has developed between the three clans—the Manu (Kol’s), the Olen (Mya’s), and the Bosha—they still retain ultimate loyalty to their own people. It’s understandable since they have been individual clans, relying only on themselves, for so long. But it’s also frustrating, especially when Chev, Mya’s brother and the Olen High Elder, makes an extremely selfish choice.
Chev’s declaration prompts a plan, one that Mya devises and Kol (unbelievably) supports. It is dangerous and slowly spirals out of control. Mya and her sister Lees quickly land in peril, and all three clans are eventually in danger. The circumstances that evolve place a strain on Kol’s and Mya’s relationship and make it seem impossible the two of them will ever be together.
Despite plenty of action, I feel like Obsidian and Stars most often progressed at a meandering pace. Ivory and Bone did for the most part, too, but this is not a bad thing! I enjoyed the pacing and loved Eshbaugh’s descriptions of the lush northern landscape and clan customs. And I savored the thoughtful, meaningful conversations between our two main characters and others.
I definitely recommend this book if you’ve read Ivory and Bone. Obsidian and Stars is even better! And I also recommend this duology as a whole because of its beautiful prose and unique setting. It was fun being absorbed in this prehistoric, clan-based world, filled with loyalties and challenges unlike any others I’ve read about in recent memory.
Read all our reviews here .
Read our full book recaps here.
March 12, 2019
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
Following the first book, Ivory and Bone, I knew I needed to get a hold of this book, and boy was I glad when a copy dropped through my letterbox from the publisher. Now that Mya and Kol are betrothed, and coming to terms with the attack by the neighbouring tribes, they think life is back on track. However, Chev, the new leader of their tribe, has announced that their youngest sister, Lees, is to marry Morsk, something that she really does not want. The only way to save Lees, is for Mya to marry Morsk instead, something she has absolutely no intention of doing. Rather than either of them being forced into a marriage they don't want, Mya and Lees run away to a secret island, hoping everything will soon blow over, and they will eventually be able to return, and marry those they love. Obviously, this would lead to a boring book, and Mya realises she's being followed, and has to use all her wits in order to save herself, and her sister.
I really did enjoy this book, but do think I preferred Ivory and Bone. Seeing as book 1 was a Pride and Prejudice retelling, I was bound to love that, and the way the prehistory was woven in, was fantastic. For Obsidian and Stars, however, the plot was a bit slow, in my opinion, as it had to pad out a story that probably would've taken less than half the pages to be completed. The plot, what was there, was really enjoyable, but like I said, it could've been much shorter - and, if I'm honest, there didn't really need to be a book 2.
Kol and Mya's romance, following the turbulence of Ivory and Bone, was extremely sweet, and because of that, that's the main reason I've rated the book so highly. I know it's been a while since I read the book, so maybe hindsight is making me reconsider my original feelings, but I ca't really remember all that much from the book, and what I can remember, was that any of the issues were mainly caused by the lack of communication, or bad choices made by the main characters. I've heard that this series was originally planned as a trilogy, but became a duology, and I'm glad, because I don't know if a book 3 would've added anything to the series, or instead, ruined the good work of book 1. Maybe this book fell into the sophomore slump you find of so many second books, I don't know, but I wish there was just something more to this!
Following the first book, Ivory and Bone, I knew I needed to get a hold of this book, and boy was I glad when a copy dropped through my letterbox from the publisher. Now that Mya and Kol are betrothed, and coming to terms with the attack by the neighbouring tribes, they think life is back on track. However, Chev, the new leader of their tribe, has announced that their youngest sister, Lees, is to marry Morsk, something that she really does not want. The only way to save Lees, is for Mya to marry Morsk instead, something she has absolutely no intention of doing. Rather than either of them being forced into a marriage they don't want, Mya and Lees run away to a secret island, hoping everything will soon blow over, and they will eventually be able to return, and marry those they love. Obviously, this would lead to a boring book, and Mya realises she's being followed, and has to use all her wits in order to save herself, and her sister.
I really did enjoy this book, but do think I preferred Ivory and Bone. Seeing as book 1 was a Pride and Prejudice retelling, I was bound to love that, and the way the prehistory was woven in, was fantastic. For Obsidian and Stars, however, the plot was a bit slow, in my opinion, as it had to pad out a story that probably would've taken less than half the pages to be completed. The plot, what was there, was really enjoyable, but like I said, it could've been much shorter - and, if I'm honest, there didn't really need to be a book 2.
Kol and Mya's romance, following the turbulence of Ivory and Bone, was extremely sweet, and because of that, that's the main reason I've rated the book so highly. I know it's been a while since I read the book, so maybe hindsight is making me reconsider my original feelings, but I ca't really remember all that much from the book, and what I can remember, was that any of the issues were mainly caused by the lack of communication, or bad choices made by the main characters. I've heard that this series was originally planned as a trilogy, but became a duology, and I'm glad, because I don't know if a book 3 would've added anything to the series, or instead, ruined the good work of book 1. Maybe this book fell into the sophomore slump you find of so many second books, I don't know, but I wish there was just something more to this!
July 26, 2017
My biggest issue with this book was: it was completely unnecessary. It felt like the author just added to Ivory And Bone because she wasn't ready to say goodbye to the world and the characters. However, in choosing to keep writing the series, she created problems that were too flimsy, that didn't really hold up.
So .
Furthermore, all the names and clans were extremely hard to keep track of. I don't know if that was because I wasn't engaged with the story or because there were just too many names. Thing is, I didn't know who half the characters were.
So .
Furthermore, all the names and clans were extremely hard to keep track of. I don't know if that was because I wasn't engaged with the story or because there were just too many names. Thing is, I didn't know who half the characters were.
June 12, 2017
I really liked Ivory and Bone so I was really excited to read the next book and find out what happened in the next installment. And this was just a good a piece of historical fiction, full of drama and adventure.
My favorite thing about this book was my favorite thing about the the first book, the setting. This is a book set in prehistoric times. It such a fascinating period and makes a brilliant location for a book. Julie Eshbaugh has definitely done a heck of a lot of research when it comes to the period and it shows in this book. The setting really comes alive in this book with incredible descriptions and just an all around compelling world.
But the other great side effect of the setting of this book is the effect it has on the plot. The setting makes for an incredibly dramatic plot full of action and adventure. There's a lot of drama built in with a setting where you are struggling to survive and that is exactly what this book is about. I wasn't sure where this book was going to go after a Pride and Prejudice retelling but it took to story in an interesting direction. There were daring escapes, thrilling battles, near death experiences, actual deaths, and all kinds of thrilling moments. It had me on the edge of my seat and I loved it.
My only problem however was with the pacing. It was a very action packed book but I definitely had ebbs and flows. I read it pretty quickly as it built to an interesting conclusion but I don't know that it had much cohesion. It just sort of had a bunch of drama and then a big finish that I knew was going to end up happening much quicker that t actually did. I wish t had more of a specific and cohesive story to it but that's really my only gripe.
Because I did also really like the characters here. I think having Mya take the lead here was a perfect decision. Mya was the most compelling character in the first book and having this one from her perspective made me enjoy It a lot. She's a tough, smart, and resourceful character that I really enjoy. I also liked that this book sort of plays with gender norms here by making Mya the hero and the one who saves the day. But Kol too is an ingesting character. He's just as tough and resourceful but he shows an incredible amount of vulnerability and resilience. Their romance was really great as well. It's subtle and a great slowburn with a very satisfying ending.
That's a great way to explain this book, satisfying. I know the author originally planned a trilogy but ended making a duology. And I think that was a great decision. This was a fantastic read with a unique and incredible setting, a plot full of action and adventure, and likable and engaging characters.
I definitely recommend this book to fans of historical fiction but even if you are more of fantasy or dystopia fan give it a try. It's thoroughly compelling and very satisfying.
My favorite thing about this book was my favorite thing about the the first book, the setting. This is a book set in prehistoric times. It such a fascinating period and makes a brilliant location for a book. Julie Eshbaugh has definitely done a heck of a lot of research when it comes to the period and it shows in this book. The setting really comes alive in this book with incredible descriptions and just an all around compelling world.
But the other great side effect of the setting of this book is the effect it has on the plot. The setting makes for an incredibly dramatic plot full of action and adventure. There's a lot of drama built in with a setting where you are struggling to survive and that is exactly what this book is about. I wasn't sure where this book was going to go after a Pride and Prejudice retelling but it took to story in an interesting direction. There were daring escapes, thrilling battles, near death experiences, actual deaths, and all kinds of thrilling moments. It had me on the edge of my seat and I loved it.
My only problem however was with the pacing. It was a very action packed book but I definitely had ebbs and flows. I read it pretty quickly as it built to an interesting conclusion but I don't know that it had much cohesion. It just sort of had a bunch of drama and then a big finish that I knew was going to end up happening much quicker that t actually did. I wish t had more of a specific and cohesive story to it but that's really my only gripe.
Because I did also really like the characters here. I think having Mya take the lead here was a perfect decision. Mya was the most compelling character in the first book and having this one from her perspective made me enjoy It a lot. She's a tough, smart, and resourceful character that I really enjoy. I also liked that this book sort of plays with gender norms here by making Mya the hero and the one who saves the day. But Kol too is an ingesting character. He's just as tough and resourceful but he shows an incredible amount of vulnerability and resilience. Their romance was really great as well. It's subtle and a great slowburn with a very satisfying ending.
That's a great way to explain this book, satisfying. I know the author originally planned a trilogy but ended making a duology. And I think that was a great decision. This was a fantastic read with a unique and incredible setting, a plot full of action and adventure, and likable and engaging characters.
I definitely recommend this book to fans of historical fiction but even if you are more of fantasy or dystopia fan give it a try. It's thoroughly compelling and very satisfying.
November 22, 2017
I'd like to start off by saying that I loved the first book of this series. The second book was also very well written, but some of the subplots were a bit lack luster for me. The second book took on a slightly more "Pride & Prejudice" tone than the first one did and I felt as though the author just didn't retain the same writing style I fell in love with in the first book. Maybe it was due to the change in point of view, or maybe it was due to the direction of the plot... regardless, I still thoroughly enjoyed this book, although I am not planning on reading the third of this series.
{3.5 stars}
{3.5 stars}
Read
January 14, 2019This one had as much danger and intrigue as the first. Just when you think everything's going to work out the way it should nothing goes as planned and you wonder if our heroes will even survive let alone end up together. If you're like me and love pre-historic settings, pick this duology up and give it a try.
July 14, 2017
Obsidian and Stars follows Mya as she begins a hopeful journey to Kol's clan as a means of introducing an engagement. Problems arise and suddenly she has to make a choice, lose her sister forever, or lose Kol in one way but not another. Hopeful she can still have them both, she runs away with her sister to show her brother a lesson, to let him know that her sister deserves to marry her love as well. Nothing goes as planned, however.
Much like Ivory and Bone, this sequel shares a lot of insight to the clan's inner workings, their hierarchy and touch choices for survival. Heartening bonds of friendship and love, through protection and sacrifice, we journey with the characters as they all learn many important, inspirational lessons. Obsidian and Stars aches with desire. It is a very real journey that appeals to the hearts of all, and keeps you flipping pages even as you cry for the loss and pain the characters must face.
Heartache is not all that they must war with however. Previous clans that have presented issues with them are now plotting against them, behind them. Kill the leaders and take over the clan, make it good again, is what they aspire. But with darkness in their hearts and greed fueling them, everyone is a pawn and no one is safe from being next. Not only that, Mya and her sister meet a young girl on an abandoned island, and she is in need of protecting from some bad people. Mya is courageous and brave, compassionate and honest, and so she takes the girl under her wing and will fight for her. Survival for oneself is important, but it is utterly selfless for one to put another's well being above their own when they are a stranger and not of your clan.
Overall, Obsidian and Stars is another amazing novel full of high rising emotions and engrossing tales that keep you wanting more. Another haunting encounter of loss and pain that stays with you well after the pages can no longer be flipped for more.
(Thank you Edelweiss for the ARC copy!)
Much like Ivory and Bone, this sequel shares a lot of insight to the clan's inner workings, their hierarchy and touch choices for survival. Heartening bonds of friendship and love, through protection and sacrifice, we journey with the characters as they all learn many important, inspirational lessons. Obsidian and Stars aches with desire. It is a very real journey that appeals to the hearts of all, and keeps you flipping pages even as you cry for the loss and pain the characters must face.
Heartache is not all that they must war with however. Previous clans that have presented issues with them are now plotting against them, behind them. Kill the leaders and take over the clan, make it good again, is what they aspire. But with darkness in their hearts and greed fueling them, everyone is a pawn and no one is safe from being next. Not only that, Mya and her sister meet a young girl on an abandoned island, and she is in need of protecting from some bad people. Mya is courageous and brave, compassionate and honest, and so she takes the girl under her wing and will fight for her. Survival for oneself is important, but it is utterly selfless for one to put another's well being above their own when they are a stranger and not of your clan.
Overall, Obsidian and Stars is another amazing novel full of high rising emotions and engrossing tales that keep you wanting more. Another haunting encounter of loss and pain that stays with you well after the pages can no longer be flipped for more.
(Thank you Edelweiss for the ARC copy!)
August 12, 2017
I got this book via Edelweiss from the publisher for review. My thoughts are not affected by this
First of all, I am so glad that this is not the end of this trilogy. Sure the ending was beautiful but I WANT MORE. One of the things that totally drew me into the first book was the world. I talked about this in my review of Ivory and Bone but this world that Eshbaugh writes in isn't the most common. I don't see a lot of books taking place in the prehistoric era where spears and bones are still used so it's super fun for me to read from this era because it's not something I get much of.
And the storyline for this book is so good. I honestly thought it was a bit slow in the beginning but once the plot picked up, the book finished so quickly. Honestly, I was so stressed reading this book because of the fact that it felt like everything was going to go to shit despite the fact that everything had already gone to shit. Doesn't matter though because it got pretty addicting after awhile where every time I turned the page I NEEDED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED NEXT.
I also really loved the romance between Kol and Mya in this book too. We saw it develop in the last book and in this one we saw them do more coupley things, out there sacrificing their asses for each other oh it was so sweet. And a lot of stuff happened to both characters in this book, which is why I am really looking forward to the next one. I'm excited to read about these characters changing more now that they have a new situation on their hands and I look forward to reading about how Mya and Kol will deal with these issues by themselves and also as a couple.
One thing that I kind of miss is the writing style. In Ivory and Bone, the writing style is so interesting, as if it's being written to a character in the book. This book had the typical 1st person. I understand why the author went back to a more traditional writing style but I still miss it.
I'm telling you, Ivory and Bone is such a good series that you all need to hop on! Great world, I love the characters and the character dynamics, the romance, the action, and the drama. I love it all honestly. Can't wait for the next book!
First of all, I am so glad that this is not the end of this trilogy. Sure the ending was beautiful but I WANT MORE. One of the things that totally drew me into the first book was the world. I talked about this in my review of Ivory and Bone but this world that Eshbaugh writes in isn't the most common. I don't see a lot of books taking place in the prehistoric era where spears and bones are still used so it's super fun for me to read from this era because it's not something I get much of.
And the storyline for this book is so good. I honestly thought it was a bit slow in the beginning but once the plot picked up, the book finished so quickly. Honestly, I was so stressed reading this book because of the fact that it felt like everything was going to go to shit despite the fact that everything had already gone to shit. Doesn't matter though because it got pretty addicting after awhile where every time I turned the page I NEEDED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED NEXT.
I also really loved the romance between Kol and Mya in this book too. We saw it develop in the last book and in this one we saw them do more coupley things, out there sacrificing their asses for each other oh it was so sweet. And a lot of stuff happened to both characters in this book, which is why I am really looking forward to the next one. I'm excited to read about these characters changing more now that they have a new situation on their hands and I look forward to reading about how Mya and Kol will deal with these issues by themselves and also as a couple.
One thing that I kind of miss is the writing style. In Ivory and Bone, the writing style is so interesting, as if it's being written to a character in the book. This book had the typical 1st person. I understand why the author went back to a more traditional writing style but I still miss it.
I'm telling you, Ivory and Bone is such a good series that you all need to hop on! Great world, I love the characters and the character dynamics, the romance, the action, and the drama. I love it all honestly. Can't wait for the next book!
June 12, 2017
The definition of the word ‘understanding’ on every dictionary I find was not as I was expecting and so as I understood the meaning of it. There are different explanations on how a person understands simple or complex things and it gives different interpretation from another person. And this… is how I misunderstood Mya in Ivory and Bone.
As I’ve mentioned on my review of Ivory and Bone, I hated her for being obstinate and I understood for she has her reasons. My understanding on her part was shallow. But as I read the first chapter of Obsidian and Stars, I cried. I wanted to kneel and apologize that I have wrongly judge her. In this sequel of the series Ivory and Bone, Mya thought me much better than Kol – on how to be a good leader and at the same time a sister and a lover. She has let me understood on why you need to hold back. Mya is a brilliant character, a good influence for being a brave heart.
Obsidian and Stars talks about the reluctance to forgive, to trust, and to accept. I have learned a lot of lessons other than that but I can’t quite recall. Also, there are points of the story that I want to know more because I felt they were cliff hangers but I told myself that I would wait for it on the last book. Regardless, it is the right book to share to your grandchildren someday. Well, just let them realize that the killings were part of it since this is set in prehistoric.
Lyrical; depictions from difficult hunting scenes to speechless grief – Julie Eshbaugh has done a of surpassing excellence on writing Obsidian and Stars. Unlike Ivory and Bone, it started epic!
Source: Author - Thank you! · I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
As I’ve mentioned on my review of Ivory and Bone, I hated her for being obstinate and I understood for she has her reasons. My understanding on her part was shallow. But as I read the first chapter of Obsidian and Stars, I cried. I wanted to kneel and apologize that I have wrongly judge her. In this sequel of the series Ivory and Bone, Mya thought me much better than Kol – on how to be a good leader and at the same time a sister and a lover. She has let me understood on why you need to hold back. Mya is a brilliant character, a good influence for being a brave heart.
Obsidian and Stars talks about the reluctance to forgive, to trust, and to accept. I have learned a lot of lessons other than that but I can’t quite recall. Also, there are points of the story that I want to know more because I felt they were cliff hangers but I told myself that I would wait for it on the last book. Regardless, it is the right book to share to your grandchildren someday. Well, just let them realize that the killings were part of it since this is set in prehistoric.
Lyrical; depictions from difficult hunting scenes to speechless grief – Julie Eshbaugh has done a of surpassing excellence on writing Obsidian and Stars. Unlike Ivory and Bone, it started epic!
Source: Author - Thank you! · I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
September 27, 2020
I really enjoyed this duology! Unlike any other series I’ve read. It ended well too. Considering all the clan rivalries and different clans wanting their place of power. Great action throughout and was not disappointed!
Want to read
November 19, 2016Gimme this now.
June 8, 2017
Originally posted on Daydreaming Books.
*I received an eARC of this book from the publisher for this blog tour in exchange for an honest review.*
Obsidian and Stars definitely was an interesting conclusion to this series, one that I definitely enjoyed. You can read my review of book 1: Ivory and Bone, here.
After the betrayal and the fight with the Bosha clan ended, everything finally seemed at place. Mya is ready to be betrothed to Kol but then the unthinkable happens, Chev, the High Elder of her clan as well as Mya's brother decides to announce Lees's, their sister's marriage with Morsk, someone she despises. Mya sees the only option out is to take her sister's place or run but when more trouble comes their way, how will she face them alone?
The plot managed to hold my attention from the very start and I finished it in two sittings. Ivory and Bone ended on a calm tone with the two clans, Manu and Olen coming to an understanding. I loved Mya and Kol together and I loved the chemistry between them. But soon enough Mya has to take a tough decision in order to save her sister from marrying Morsk which kick-started another new adventure.
When Mya and Lees run away, the end up on a totally new land where they find Noni, a runaway from the Tama clan. I loved how it didn't take Mya a second to accept her as her own when she saw how much trouble the little girl was in. She defended her with all her power and proved how much worthy she was off. And I equally loved Kol, who stood by her side no matter what although sometimes it felt Kol wanted their relationship to succeed more than Mya but I was glad to be proved wrong in the end.
This book was indeed a little bitter-sweet but I loved the way everything was executed. The action and the adventure kept me on the edge and I was so eager to know what happened next. And how things ended, I couldn't have been more satisfied.
Overall, Obsidian and Stars was a great read. The plot was executed neatly and the characters kept me engaged throughout the book. I loved the romance between Mya and Kol. The writing was smooth and easy to read and it was fast-paced throughout the book, I didn't feel bored, even for a second. I am definitely looking out to read more by this author.
Recommend it?
Yes.
*I received an eARC of this book from the publisher for this blog tour in exchange for an honest review.*
Obsidian and Stars definitely was an interesting conclusion to this series, one that I definitely enjoyed. You can read my review of book 1: Ivory and Bone, here.
After the betrayal and the fight with the Bosha clan ended, everything finally seemed at place. Mya is ready to be betrothed to Kol but then the unthinkable happens, Chev, the High Elder of her clan as well as Mya's brother decides to announce Lees's, their sister's marriage with Morsk, someone she despises. Mya sees the only option out is to take her sister's place or run but when more trouble comes their way, how will she face them alone?
The plot managed to hold my attention from the very start and I finished it in two sittings. Ivory and Bone ended on a calm tone with the two clans, Manu and Olen coming to an understanding. I loved Mya and Kol together and I loved the chemistry between them. But soon enough Mya has to take a tough decision in order to save her sister from marrying Morsk which kick-started another new adventure.
When Mya and Lees run away, the end up on a totally new land where they find Noni, a runaway from the Tama clan. I loved how it didn't take Mya a second to accept her as her own when she saw how much trouble the little girl was in. She defended her with all her power and proved how much worthy she was off. And I equally loved Kol, who stood by her side no matter what although sometimes it felt Kol wanted their relationship to succeed more than Mya but I was glad to be proved wrong in the end.
This book was indeed a little bitter-sweet but I loved the way everything was executed. The action and the adventure kept me on the edge and I was so eager to know what happened next. And how things ended, I couldn't have been more satisfied.
“That's why I like the blackest nights-the darkest, obsidian skies of winter. When the world is coldest and darkest, the stars shine brightest.”
Overall, Obsidian and Stars was a great read. The plot was executed neatly and the characters kept me engaged throughout the book. I loved the romance between Mya and Kol. The writing was smooth and easy to read and it was fast-paced throughout the book, I didn't feel bored, even for a second. I am definitely looking out to read more by this author.
Recommend it?
Yes.
June 5, 2017
Did I love this as much as book one? Yes. Actually I did.
I didn't think this could stand up to the tense, romantic, historically-rich Ivory and Bone, but this book is every bit as wonderful. One of my favourite things is how different the action scenes are to any other book I've read, because they're fighting with era-appropriate weapons like spears and darts, and I LOVE IT. It makes every fight stand out when sometimes fight scenes can be flat and dull. In the same way, these details make even everyday tasks stand out in these books, and I adore these authentic touches. In a sea of historical and history-inspired fantasy worlds, this one is so memorable.
But now let me ramble a bit about my main loves Mya and Kol. I love them SO MUCH, and they really show how great leaders they can be in this book. I cannot wait to see what they do next (but can I just pretend this happy ending is the real end and nothing else bad happens?) and how their relationship progresses after that best of endings. Seriously, that end made me so, so happy, especially after the book tricked me into thinking things would never work out (tricky, tricky book.) I live for their relationship tbh.
My only issue is a queer death, even if it was necessary for the story (and another queer, secondary character still survives.) I'd like to see more queer characters introduced into the series with the next book, please, and let them all live!
I didn't think this could stand up to the tense, romantic, historically-rich Ivory and Bone, but this book is every bit as wonderful. One of my favourite things is how different the action scenes are to any other book I've read, because they're fighting with era-appropriate weapons like spears and darts, and I LOVE IT. It makes every fight stand out when sometimes fight scenes can be flat and dull. In the same way, these details make even everyday tasks stand out in these books, and I adore these authentic touches. In a sea of historical and history-inspired fantasy worlds, this one is so memorable.
But now let me ramble a bit about my main loves Mya and Kol. I love them SO MUCH, and they really show how great leaders they can be in this book. I cannot wait to see what they do next (but can I just pretend this happy ending is the real end and nothing else bad happens?) and how their relationship progresses after that best of endings. Seriously, that end made me so, so happy, especially after the book tricked me into thinking things would never work out (tricky, tricky book.) I live for their relationship tbh.
My only issue is a queer death, even if it was necessary for the story (and another queer, secondary character still survives.) I'd like to see more queer characters introduced into the series with the next book, please, and let them all live!
June 7, 2017
I absolutely love Mya and how awesomely independent and fierce and badass she is, but still learning to be vulnerable through her love for Kol (whom she is constantly having to save from imminent peril). The characters made this book for me.
March 12, 2018
I have some issues with the plot, but I just love this world and these characters!
July 7, 2017
As a sequel to ivory and bone, obsidian and Stars keeps the same pace, emotion, and action. Julie Eshbaugh definitely has a new fan! I highly recommend both of these books to anyone who wants to read a genre that might not be their usual taste... I assure you this author will be.
June 21, 2017
It's not often I say this but this sequel was way way way better than the first book. It's based in Mya's pov and it made literally all the difference. There was so much more character depth in this one than in the first, found myself understanding why the characters were acting a certain way and why it mattered. I loved the relationships between Mya and her sisters, and brother and felt it was more fleshed out. Though I liked the relationship I didn't like her brother Chev, he kept talking of putting the clan first and sure that sounds great as long as it doesn't make you a horrible person. Also his friend, enemy at the beginning, I never felt he was actually redeemed from his actions because...jerk! The romantic moments were super cute though and I'm ended up happy with the ending overall. Kol spent most of the book sickly but I didn't really care, compared to Mya he's dull. I will say there were a whole lot of deaths in this book and I won't spoil them I will say I didn't care. I know that sounds awful especially when you read it and find out who died I just wasn't attached to the characters and didn't like some of them. Mostly it was a fun book, I liked the story, easy to read through without emotional attachments that make some books to heavy. I still like the prehistoric elements and find it different looking at like before civilization and guns, making due with the ability of your own hands. Worth the read!
May 21, 2017
I received an ARC (giveaway), but I feel ever so obliged to submit my review for this excellent read! (spoiler free unless marked)
Obsidian and Stars, rating: 4.5 stars
To be honest, that is the only way I can imagine the 3rd book to be about. The series could end nicely with this book, but a third book changes the sequence.
Obsidian and Stars, rating: 4.5 stars
As complex and attention-grabbing as Julie Eshbaugh's debut novel
Ivory and Bone --but improved with experience! The first book, told from Kol's storytelling perspective, recounts a tale of convoluted motives and a twisted past. Its sequel, Obsidian and Stars, only differs in the maturity of the telling.
The story is told from Mya's perspective, giving us more insight into her relationship with Kol (among other things). Although it's evident she cares deeply for him, it would be much more meaningful and touching for us readers if we were able to connect better with their sometimes cold, distant, and aloof relationship. It just feels that there's something missing (like the spark), even though Mya and Kol act like a paired couple.
Heck, this probably applies to the whole book. The storyline and plot is almost flawless, but the character portrayal could use better attention. It's like you somewhat feel related to the characters, but at the same time, distanced. For example, , you feel detached and callous. There's some mention of it, but the events get turned over quickly. More emphasis should be placed so the reader feels how the plot is changed.
Speaking of the plot, I'd comment that it is very well written. Reminiscent of Ivory and Bone's brewing turmoil (but events are very different, trust me), this keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times. Just when you expect it the least, a surprise pops in. I must say that I admire the series and Ms. Eshbaugh for this. But for me, a reader at the audience's targeted age, it's a little confusing at times. Perhaps if Ms. Eshbaugh was a little more descriptive, there would be less confusion and the story flow smoothly.
Back to Mya's perspective, readers can understand her loyalty to her clan, Olen, and those whom she loves. Her very actions are based off that loyalty, and from hereon, her struggles are impactful. The end wraps up the loose threads quite nicely, but readers can tell there would be future issues ahead.
To be honest, that is the only way I can imagine the 3rd book to be about. The series could end nicely with this book, but a third book changes the sequence.
After finishing Ivory and Bone, I was excited to enjoy Obsidian and Stars, and it did not disappoint. Given, the description may not seem as appealing as Ivory and Bone, but give it a try. It focuses on the finer points of Mya's and Kol's relationship, but also involves major changes to their clans' lives. I recommend it to those who enjoyed Ivory and Bone (but don't binge-read like me, it'll give you a head-ache). These events are to me taken in moderation. Rating: 4.5 stars
June 12, 2017
I was so excited to return to the world Julie Eshbaugh set up in Ivory and Bone, it's so different, an absolute breath of fresh air. My review will avoid spoilers so i won't say too much about the plot, except that the action is intense, the imagery is vivid and makes your heart pound, and the sense of wonder/fear tinged adventure is with you from start to finish. Mostly I just want to make this review a love letter to Mya. Seeing her through Kol's eyes in book one was an experience in and of itself. She's cold sometimes, withdrawn inside herself, admittedly stuck in the past. But Kol's immediate magnetism towards her meant that he idolized her a bit, even when he was chastising her for her faults, she still seemed otherworldly through his mindset. Obsidian and Stars gives us the gift of seeing a much more humanized Mya. We see that she is stubborn, yes, but she still doubts herself. She is a protective entity by nature, but she still feels terror and the sting of potential failure. I love how Obsidian and Stars links back to Ivory and Bone, but at the same time it feels like it's very own independent adventure. Eshbaugh has such a gift for writing imagery that utterly saturates the pages, and the raw humanity she puts into her characters had me tearing up more than once. I'm in love with this dualogy, and it's a world I know I will revisit time and time again in the future.
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