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A Game of Stars and Shadows #1
Stars Descend
The elves have come down from the sky in their ships, their countenances full of light and their bodies, power. But they rule over us humans with iron fists, and without mercy.Vampires stalk the streets, lurking in shadows and the cover of darkness. Their lust for blood is never sated, and the nights are filled with the screams of their victims.I’m just a street rat, a trash picker. I didn’t expect him to choose me. The Prince of Elves could have anyone, so why me? Even as my heart sings at the elf’s close proximity, I still love the boy who left me, disappearing into the city’s corrupt underworld. I don’t even know if he’s still alive.Stars reign. Rebellion brews. And with my already uncertain future disintegrating into chaos, I don’t know who to turn to, or who to trust.
226 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2019
50 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Kara Jaynes
35 books275 followersKara Jaynes is a fantasy and children's book author. She loves rainy days, long walks, and fairy tales. She's been writing since she was very young and has more stories in her head than she could possibly write.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 17, 2020
This book is one wild ride. I'm not even sure what genre to call it.
It is set in Liberty, a place where some of the remnants of the human race are trying to eek out an existence, making it apocalyptic fiction.
But the citizens of Liberty are being ruled with an iron fist. So dystopian.
Yet these rulers are aliens from outer space. So sci-fi.
But get this, these aliens aren't just aliens. They are space elves. Kind of like Star Trek vulcans, in that they suppress emotions, but they are truly fantasy like elves with pointed ears, long flowing hair, fight with swords, and have a certain amount of magic. So I guess this book is fantasy?
Because this book isn't crazy enough, there's a magic bond and elf-human romance. Kind of. So romantic fantasy? Maybe?
But get this. There's also vampires. So now we're into paranormal.
The vampires are results of a scientific/magical experiment. So we're back to sci-fi, I guess? Maybe space opera?
Yet, somehow, even though this is a apocalyptic/dystopian/sci-fi/space opera/romantic fantasy something, it works. It really does.
I think what carries this book is the main character of Stella. She is a likable, funny heroine with enough grit and toughness not to make her a wimp but also enough vulnerability and lack of fighting skills to keep her from being stereotypical kickbutt. She's the type to believably get herself into these scrapes with enough street smarts to be able to navigate her crazy-and-about-to-get-crazier world.
I flew through this book and jumped right into the next one. It is an easy, light read for the most part. I normally don't like most sci-fi or dystopian, but those aspects were light enough in this book that it fits my taste. I'm sure I'm going to fly through the next book just as quickly!
It is set in Liberty, a place where some of the remnants of the human race are trying to eek out an existence, making it apocalyptic fiction.
But the citizens of Liberty are being ruled with an iron fist. So dystopian.
Yet these rulers are aliens from outer space. So sci-fi.
But get this, these aliens aren't just aliens. They are space elves. Kind of like Star Trek vulcans, in that they suppress emotions, but they are truly fantasy like elves with pointed ears, long flowing hair, fight with swords, and have a certain amount of magic. So I guess this book is fantasy?
Because this book isn't crazy enough, there's a magic bond and elf-human romance. Kind of. So romantic fantasy? Maybe?
But get this. There's also vampires. So now we're into paranormal.
The vampires are results of a scientific/magical experiment. So we're back to sci-fi, I guess? Maybe space opera?
Yet, somehow, even though this is a apocalyptic/dystopian/sci-fi/space opera/romantic fantasy something, it works. It really does.
I think what carries this book is the main character of Stella. She is a likable, funny heroine with enough grit and toughness not to make her a wimp but also enough vulnerability and lack of fighting skills to keep her from being stereotypical kickbutt. She's the type to believably get herself into these scrapes with enough street smarts to be able to navigate her crazy-and-about-to-get-crazier world.
I flew through this book and jumped right into the next one. It is an easy, light read for the most part. I normally don't like most sci-fi or dystopian, but those aspects were light enough in this book that it fits my taste. I'm sure I'm going to fly through the next book just as quickly!
May 1, 2019
Pros: Awesome worldbuilding + one of my favorite romance tropes.
Cons: A love triangle muddling up my favorite romance trope.
Cons: A love triangle muddling up my favorite romance trope.
May 3, 2019
Fascinating premise
I purchased this book when it was on sale because SPACE ELVES... I’ve never heard the like and figured I had to give it a go. And when the book was chosen by one of my book clubs as the book of the month, I decided to bump it up on my reading list.
It’s been a while since I flew through a book in an afternoon, I was that hooked. Even the fact this story explores two of my lesser favorite tropes (love at first sight and the notorious love triangle) did NOT turn me off. Rather, I found the author’s take on the love at first sight trope to be rather original and fun. And SPACE ELVES. Did I mention there are SPACE ELVES???????? This was a fun, clean read with tasteful romantic tension and just a hint of a spooky violence (the vampires are rather disturbing, but nothing over a PG-13 rating). The only thing that really bothered me in the book was SPOILER: The MC characters reaction to the revelation of Wilder’s having been turned. I really felt she should have been more disturbed about his new circumstances. END SPOILER.
This was a fun, gritty, fast paced read that will grip you from the first chapter and not let you go until you turn the last page. I am eagerly awaiting Book 2.
I purchased this book when it was on sale because SPACE ELVES... I’ve never heard the like and figured I had to give it a go. And when the book was chosen by one of my book clubs as the book of the month, I decided to bump it up on my reading list.
It’s been a while since I flew through a book in an afternoon, I was that hooked. Even the fact this story explores two of my lesser favorite tropes (love at first sight and the notorious love triangle) did NOT turn me off. Rather, I found the author’s take on the love at first sight trope to be rather original and fun. And SPACE ELVES. Did I mention there are SPACE ELVES???????? This was a fun, clean read with tasteful romantic tension and just a hint of a spooky violence (the vampires are rather disturbing, but nothing over a PG-13 rating). The only thing that really bothered me in the book was SPOILER: The MC characters reaction to the revelation of Wilder’s having been turned. I really felt she should have been more disturbed about his new circumstances. END SPOILER.
This was a fun, gritty, fast paced read that will grip you from the first chapter and not let you go until you turn the last page. I am eagerly awaiting Book 2.
April 2, 2019
Best book I've read in a long time!
O M Goodness. This is the best book I've read in a long time. I actually got to read it twice, as a beta read and an ARC read. I loved it both times, and this is my honest opinion.
Stella, the MC, is a great character. She is savvy and willing to take risks to provide for her challenged brother. Indeed, her love for her brother is one of my favorite things about her. Stella is tough, but not one of those characters who is so tough she has no weaknesses or fear. Sometimes she makes rash decisions, but I like a MC who makes the occasional mistake. It makes them human.
Elderon-- I'm in love. For realz. For someone so perfect in a very elf-like way, he can be absolutely clueless and really stick his foot in it. He is hilarious and his devotion to Stella is charming and a little heartbreaking.
The whole concept of a future Seattle as the setting is intriguing, especially if you've visited Seattle and recognize some of the landmarks the author sprinkles in. As for the vampires, they are creepy but how they come into being is a cool new twist on a standard creature. Actually, this book has some very original twists on lots of things, including space elves instead of your standard elves.
In conclusion, if you like an urban fantasy setting with a dash of romance and sensuality, lots of action and humor, unique twists, and some creepy moments, this tale is for you!
O M Goodness. This is the best book I've read in a long time. I actually got to read it twice, as a beta read and an ARC read. I loved it both times, and this is my honest opinion.
Stella, the MC, is a great character. She is savvy and willing to take risks to provide for her challenged brother. Indeed, her love for her brother is one of my favorite things about her. Stella is tough, but not one of those characters who is so tough she has no weaknesses or fear. Sometimes she makes rash decisions, but I like a MC who makes the occasional mistake. It makes them human.
Elderon-- I'm in love. For realz. For someone so perfect in a very elf-like way, he can be absolutely clueless and really stick his foot in it. He is hilarious and his devotion to Stella is charming and a little heartbreaking.
The whole concept of a future Seattle as the setting is intriguing, especially if you've visited Seattle and recognize some of the landmarks the author sprinkles in. As for the vampires, they are creepy but how they come into being is a cool new twist on a standard creature. Actually, this book has some very original twists on lots of things, including space elves instead of your standard elves.
In conclusion, if you like an urban fantasy setting with a dash of romance and sensuality, lots of action and humor, unique twists, and some creepy moments, this tale is for you!
Want to read
February 10, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/10/2020)! 🎁
May 3, 2019
This title earns 3.5 stars from me. It broke several of my cardinal rules for "you will NOT earn five stars if you do this."
It started out slow. As in, I read the first two chapters and thought, "Well, I have all month to read it." (This is a book club read. Although I like post-apocalyptic stories this is in Amazon's sci-fi section, and you know how I am about THOSE books.)
Then I got to chapter FIVE and I didn't want to put it down. Stella and Eldarean are both engaging characters. Although I still don't understand what truly motivates HIM (mystery is part of his appeal), she is the protective "big" sister all the way. There were a few "bombs" dropped that Jaynes could have done a better job hinting at.
But then again, I figured out her biggest twist...because OBVIOUS. And you all know how I feel about love triangles, too. I'm trying not to hold that against this book because I was definitely flipping pages to find out what happened.
And then...nothing. The only resolution of this story problem has to do with Quinn. That's where Jayne lost a star from me. "All this and it's a set up?" Yep. It is. If I want to find out what "really" happens I have to grab the next book.
You know I despise this tactic. You also know it WORKS on me when the characters intrigue me. At this point, my biggest argument against it? 1) I feel cheated and 2) vampires - ugh.
Still, when I copy this review on Amazon, I might be snagging the next book because...E's father is up to NO GOOD. I know this...and E and Stella MUST stop him.
It started out slow. As in, I read the first two chapters and thought, "Well, I have all month to read it." (This is a book club read. Although I like post-apocalyptic stories this is in Amazon's sci-fi section, and you know how I am about THOSE books.)
Then I got to chapter FIVE and I didn't want to put it down. Stella and Eldarean are both engaging characters. Although I still don't understand what truly motivates HIM (mystery is part of his appeal), she is the protective "big" sister all the way. There were a few "bombs" dropped that Jaynes could have done a better job hinting at.
But then again, I figured out her biggest twist...because OBVIOUS. And you all know how I feel about love triangles, too. I'm trying not to hold that against this book because I was definitely flipping pages to find out what happened.
And then...nothing. The only resolution of this story problem has to do with Quinn. That's where Jayne lost a star from me. "All this and it's a set up?" Yep. It is. If I want to find out what "really" happens I have to grab the next book.
You know I despise this tactic. You also know it WORKS on me when the characters intrigue me. At this point, my biggest argument against it? 1) I feel cheated and 2) vampires - ugh.
Still, when I copy this review on Amazon, I might be snagging the next book because...E's father is up to NO GOOD. I know this...and E and Stella MUST stop him.
July 19, 2020
VIDEO REVIEW HERE: https://youtu.be/b25RUCRw348
Confession: I was so sad when this story ended and had to go comfort myself with laughter by reading my favorite WebToons. LOL!
Stars Descend was very very good and was sooooo into this story. I loved the unique setting, the space elves, and especially Stella. I was also quite impressed how the author did an incredible job having me go from one ship to another and then sort of coasting in the middle because I was so divided. Ha!
Definitely was a fast-paced read and simply NEED book two immediately so I can devour it. I'm pretty hooked to these characters' lives and not really sure what's going to happen next.
Confession: I was so sad when this story ended and had to go comfort myself with laughter by reading my favorite WebToons. LOL!
Stars Descend was very very good and was sooooo into this story. I loved the unique setting, the space elves, and especially Stella. I was also quite impressed how the author did an incredible job having me go from one ship to another and then sort of coasting in the middle because I was so divided. Ha!
Definitely was a fast-paced read and simply NEED book two immediately so I can devour it. I'm pretty hooked to these characters' lives and not really sure what's going to happen next.
May 29, 2020
WARNING: Possible Spoilers!
The Basics
Urban fantasy. CLEAN urban fantasy. <---Ya don't normally read that combo of words too often. But this book covers it! Such a wild ride! I honestly had no idea what to expect when I happened to pick it up on Amazon for free months ago. But I enjoyed it so much, I had to purchase the two sequels (if that tells you anything). ;D
Not knowing what to expect, I certainly didn't expect planetary sci-fi to work it's way into an urban fantasy. SPACE ELVES, guys. SPACE ELVESSSSS. This was suuuuuch an intriguing premise, and when we follow a character who makes a jump through the vastness of space to his home planet---I found it harder & harder to put the book down. Also, vampires. Not that big on those things, but I thought it was rather well done in this story, and certainly added another element to the plot.
Stella is your typical strong-minded teen (18, I think) charged with taking care of her mentally-challenged younger brother, & finding some way to provide their next meal. The prince of the Elves is a young man with the literal weight of a world on his shoulders, all while trying to succeed in his mission & hopefully make his father proud of him. Throw the two of them together with a dying world, blood-sucking vampires, & betrayal of the highest order with ALLL the plot twists, and we get THIS BOOK.
Violence
[this could be a SPOILER...] In an experiment gone wrong (with magic thrown into the mix), humans are turned into vampires. One of the said vampires, with an overwhelming lust for blood, turns onto one of the women & kills her by sinking his teeth into her neck & drinking her dry. *gags*
At some point, elves arrive into a scene covered in blood & gore (after hunting vampires who escaped).
To kill a vampire, an elf throws it over his shoulder in combat & breaks its neck, but when it doesn't die he thrusts his hand into its chest & crushes the heart. O_O Kinda gory, folks...
Sometime later, a vampire beheads at least three men.
Spiritual Content
Someone asks in regards to the elves, "Are they gods?" The reply, "Only if gods can be killed."
The elven race is immortal & naturally wields magic.
A Bible is on someone's bookshelf. They speak of human goodness, and eventually the conversation turns to talking about Christ.
Language // Alcohol & Drugs
An elvish curse word, "fyit" is used often, though we're not given the definition as to what it actually means. Other words like "shoot," "stars," and "cripes" are also in use. Other than that (and those don't really count as profanity, in my opinion), it's clean!
Addicts are referred to as "dream vagrants" thanks to the use of a foreign drug that comes in the form of a pale, red powder that brings euphoria & sweet oblivion. Alleyways are the home to many dream vagrants, and we seem used needles at some point.
A boy in his early-to-mid teens is given some kind of medicine to help with his seizures & mental meltdowns---it's implied that those are the result of trauma from years ago. There's a reference to a wasting disease that killed thousands (?) a long time ago.
Romantic Content
In her desperation to sell a couple items she acquired through dumpster diving, Stella gives an older man the wrong impression when she goes to his shop after midnight. With that in mind, the man admits her into his shop, but it's obvious Stella isn't selling what he thinks she is.
[SPOILER] Something the elves refer to as the Kenelky, sparks unexpectedly between Stella & the elven prince. They are almost uncontrollably drawn to each other by a kind of magical bond. At the moment it happens, the prince brings her to his bedchambers & they exchange seemingly out-of-the-blue passionate kisses & embraces until Stella comes to her senses wondering WHAT IN THE WORLD came over her... Nothing happens, y'all! I promise. :] But it definitely has some steamy moments. There's an obvious attraction between these two. It seems, however, that Stella's heart belongs to someone else.
And here we have the long, overused trope of the love triangle. I was rather disappointed in this fact, but I do believe it is handled extremely well. Stella obviously had a life & a love interest before the arrival of the elves, and when said love interest disappears from her life because (SPOILERS), well, she tries to discern whether she still loves him or not.
At some point, we see a shirtless man & his ripped abs, lean muscles, etc. etc.
Conclusion
All told, I REALLY enjoyed this book. And other than a good bit of graphic violence, this story is squeaky clean. That, unfortunately, is SOOOO hard to find in the Urban Fantasy genre. There's no need to say that a majority of those books cuss like sailors & worse (but apparently I said it anyway). Finding this gem, and it being a freebie from Amazon of all things! was such a refreshing adventure. I highly recommend this book! Be aware, however, that it is the first in a series, and there may or may not be a cliffhanger at the end. *le gasp!*
FIVE out of FIVE stars
Note: a teeny bit of steamy romance & gory violence
The Basics
Urban fantasy. CLEAN urban fantasy. <---Ya don't normally read that combo of words too often. But this book covers it! Such a wild ride! I honestly had no idea what to expect when I happened to pick it up on Amazon for free months ago. But I enjoyed it so much, I had to purchase the two sequels (if that tells you anything). ;D
Not knowing what to expect, I certainly didn't expect planetary sci-fi to work it's way into an urban fantasy. SPACE ELVES, guys. SPACE ELVESSSSS. This was suuuuuch an intriguing premise, and when we follow a character who makes a jump through the vastness of space to his home planet---I found it harder & harder to put the book down. Also, vampires. Not that big on those things, but I thought it was rather well done in this story, and certainly added another element to the plot.
Stella is your typical strong-minded teen (18, I think) charged with taking care of her mentally-challenged younger brother, & finding some way to provide their next meal. The prince of the Elves is a young man with the literal weight of a world on his shoulders, all while trying to succeed in his mission & hopefully make his father proud of him. Throw the two of them together with a dying world, blood-sucking vampires, & betrayal of the highest order with ALLL the plot twists, and we get THIS BOOK.
Violence
[this could be a SPOILER...] In an experiment gone wrong (with magic thrown into the mix), humans are turned into vampires. One of the said vampires, with an overwhelming lust for blood, turns onto one of the women & kills her by sinking his teeth into her neck & drinking her dry. *gags*
At some point, elves arrive into a scene covered in blood & gore (after hunting vampires who escaped).
To kill a vampire, an elf throws it over his shoulder in combat & breaks its neck, but when it doesn't die he thrusts his hand into its chest & crushes the heart. O_O Kinda gory, folks...
Sometime later, a vampire beheads at least three men.
Spiritual Content
Someone asks in regards to the elves, "Are they gods?" The reply, "Only if gods can be killed."
The elven race is immortal & naturally wields magic.
A Bible is on someone's bookshelf. They speak of human goodness, and eventually the conversation turns to talking about Christ.
Language // Alcohol & Drugs
An elvish curse word, "fyit" is used often, though we're not given the definition as to what it actually means. Other words like "shoot," "stars," and "cripes" are also in use. Other than that (and those don't really count as profanity, in my opinion), it's clean!
Addicts are referred to as "dream vagrants" thanks to the use of a foreign drug that comes in the form of a pale, red powder that brings euphoria & sweet oblivion. Alleyways are the home to many dream vagrants, and we seem used needles at some point.
A boy in his early-to-mid teens is given some kind of medicine to help with his seizures & mental meltdowns---it's implied that those are the result of trauma from years ago. There's a reference to a wasting disease that killed thousands (?) a long time ago.
Romantic Content
In her desperation to sell a couple items she acquired through dumpster diving, Stella gives an older man the wrong impression when she goes to his shop after midnight. With that in mind, the man admits her into his shop, but it's obvious Stella isn't selling what he thinks she is.
[SPOILER] Something the elves refer to as the Kenelky, sparks unexpectedly between Stella & the elven prince. They are almost uncontrollably drawn to each other by a kind of magical bond. At the moment it happens, the prince brings her to his bedchambers & they exchange seemingly out-of-the-blue passionate kisses & embraces until Stella comes to her senses wondering WHAT IN THE WORLD came over her... Nothing happens, y'all! I promise. :] But it definitely has some steamy moments. There's an obvious attraction between these two. It seems, however, that Stella's heart belongs to someone else.
And here we have the long, overused trope of the love triangle. I was rather disappointed in this fact, but I do believe it is handled extremely well. Stella obviously had a life & a love interest before the arrival of the elves, and when said love interest disappears from her life because (SPOILERS), well, she tries to discern whether she still loves him or not.
At some point, we see a shirtless man & his ripped abs, lean muscles, etc. etc.
Conclusion
All told, I REALLY enjoyed this book. And other than a good bit of graphic violence, this story is squeaky clean. That, unfortunately, is SOOOO hard to find in the Urban Fantasy genre. There's no need to say that a majority of those books cuss like sailors & worse (but apparently I said it anyway). Finding this gem, and it being a freebie from Amazon of all things! was such a refreshing adventure. I highly recommend this book! Be aware, however, that it is the first in a series, and there may or may not be a cliffhanger at the end. *le gasp!*
FIVE out of FIVE stars
Note: a teeny bit of steamy romance & gory violence
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2021
2.75 stars
Tl;dr: Mixed feelings. Strong worldbuilding, but due to a love triangle and some elements that I personally did not care for, not planning on continuing to read the series.
The Positives:
-Kudos to the author for actually writing a semi-clean urban fantasy. Haven't dived too deep into the genre but apparently that is a rare thing.
-My favorite part of the book was a certain elf trying to learn human courtship rituals. I cracked up at the "dying flowers" scene.
-The worldbuilding was by far the strongest aspect of the book. Elves from outer space and a dystopian setting... and then BAM! vampires with a cool origin story. 👍
-Plot twist involving Quinn :)
-I happen to adore the magical bond trope, which took center stage in this book. However, that brings us to the negatives...
The Negatives:
-Two things I really disliked about the romance: a). a love triangle and b). a vampire is involved in a romance. As far as a). is concerned, I feel like it is very obvious what the outcome of the triangle will be and still, from what I can gather, it's dragged out to the end of the series. With b).: when a creature who routinely drains people of their blood is set up with a human, there are some serious, unhealthy relationship issues ahead. It can be done, but the author needs to tread very carefully.
-Talks about environmental issues.. it didn't feel preachy but I strongly disliked the depiction of human beings as rats, ruining everything they get their grubby little hands on and having to "save" the planet from humans. So many issues with that line of thinking.
Content:
Violence: Very mild until the vampires come into the picture maybe two-thirds of the way through the book. Some scenes may be disturbing to younger readers: for example, a vampire drains someone of their blood; vampires are killed, which I think is by beheading or something similar.
Sensuality: Some passionate kissing. Quite a bit depends on the reader; if you read into some scenes they are more suggestive than the actual text, but younger readers may not notice that and gloss over it.
Swearing: Infrequent, made-up language like "fyit", which doesn't take much imagination to guess at an alternative word.
Drug abuse: A significant part of the plot are "dream vagrants" who are basically drug addicts. Drugs are portrayed overwhelmingly in a negative light, showing that the temporary bliss leads to destruction.
Tl;dr: Mixed feelings. Strong worldbuilding, but due to a love triangle and some elements that I personally did not care for, not planning on continuing to read the series.
The Positives:
-Kudos to the author for actually writing a semi-clean urban fantasy. Haven't dived too deep into the genre but apparently that is a rare thing.
-My favorite part of the book was a certain elf trying to learn human courtship rituals. I cracked up at the "dying flowers" scene.
-The worldbuilding was by far the strongest aspect of the book. Elves from outer space and a dystopian setting... and then BAM! vampires with a cool origin story. 👍
-Plot twist involving Quinn :)
-I happen to adore the magical bond trope, which took center stage in this book. However, that brings us to the negatives...
The Negatives:
-Two things I really disliked about the romance: a). a love triangle and b). a vampire is involved in a romance. As far as a). is concerned, I feel like it is very obvious what the outcome of the triangle will be and still, from what I can gather, it's dragged out to the end of the series. With b).: when a creature who routinely drains people of their blood is set up with a human, there are some serious, unhealthy relationship issues ahead. It can be done, but the author needs to tread very carefully.
-Talks about environmental issues.. it didn't feel preachy but I strongly disliked the depiction of human beings as rats, ruining everything they get their grubby little hands on and having to "save" the planet from humans. So many issues with that line of thinking.
Content:
Violence: Very mild until the vampires come into the picture maybe two-thirds of the way through the book. Some scenes may be disturbing to younger readers: for example, a vampire drains someone of their blood; vampires are killed, which I think is by beheading or something similar.
Sensuality: Some passionate kissing. Quite a bit depends on the reader; if you read into some scenes they are more suggestive than the actual text, but younger readers may not notice that and gloss over it.
Swearing: Infrequent, made-up language like "fyit", which doesn't take much imagination to guess at an alternative word.
Drug abuse: A significant part of the plot are "dream vagrants" who are basically drug addicts. Drugs are portrayed overwhelmingly in a negative light, showing that the temporary bliss leads to destruction.
June 2, 2019
There were so many things I loved about this book. This is a love triangle you’ve never met before. I’m not going to give anything away because that would be tragic, but seriously, these characters are fresh and relatable. Don’t go into this expecting a flawless prince. Eldaren is hilarious without trying to be, simply because he is clueless about Stella’s culture. Kara Jaynes did an epic job showing the clash of elven culture vs American culture, and I loved it. Very realistic.
I’m pretty ADD about reading fiction and often start a book, love it, but then lose interest after putting it down for a day. Not so with this one! I was hooked as soon as I started.
I’m pretty ADD about reading fiction and often start a book, love it, but then lose interest after putting it down for a day. Not so with this one! I was hooked as soon as I started.
April 2, 2019
A fresh and well written tale involving elves, vampires, and a dystopian-like society! Interesting and thoroughly entertaining from start to finish!
in-collection-boxset
August 1, 20188/1/18 currently free in this boxset
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079M5GQLV?...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079M5GQLV?...
April 3, 2019
A cute and captivating story of space elves, vampires, and a reluctant love triangle. My only complaint is that I needed book 2 yesterday.
June 13, 2019
The Elves have come down from the sky in their ships, their countenances full of light and their bodies, power. But they rule over us humans with iron fists, and without mercy.
Vampires stalk the streets, lurking in shadows and the cover of darkness. Their lust for blood is never sated, and the nights are filled with the screams of their victims.
I’m just a street rat, a trash picker. I didn’t expect him to choose me. The Prince of Elves could have anyone, so why me?
Even as my heart sings at the elf’s close proximity, I still love the boy who left me, disappearing into the city’s corrupt underworld. I don’t even know if he’s still alive.
Stars reign. Rebellion brews. And with my already uncertain future disintegrating into chaos, I don’t know who to turn to, or who to trust.
Stars Descend is book 1 of a series, and is not a standalone novel.
Rating: 4.25/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: SPACE. ELVES. Be still, my flailing heart; and with space elves came SPACE ELF VAMPIRES, which is just...I can't handle it!; cliff hanger warning, this book will leave you needing more; magical realism is the cherry on top; there are some distinct "Beauty and the Beast" vibes going on
HUGE thanks to Kara Jaynes and Unicorn Quester for a complimentary egalley of this title! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.
Penguins, it's FINALLY happened! I have found a book with aliens that didn't absolutely drive me CRAZY while reading. Of course, these aliens are more like....elves. Space elves, but elves. And there are vampires, which may also have played a part, but.... ALIENS! THAT I ACTUALLY LIKED! YAY! I'm just gonna go over to that corner and celebrate while you read the rest of my review, otherwise all this is going to be is me screaming that I finally found a book with aliens in it that I actually enjoyed reading.
I have read it is a popular human custom for a man to shower his woman with useless gifts. Please accept these dying flowers as a token of my affection.
There are some distinct Beauty and the Beast vibes coming out of this read, though. I won't go through every single one, but... stubborn, headstrong girl who loves reading gets taken prisoner, magic brings girl and guy together, girl and guy begin changing their views toward each other.... Badaboom, badabang, Beauty and the Beast. The world-building is fantastic, though I had a small amount of trouble fully visualizing what was being described (that could just be ME, though, honestly). I really dig the magical realism, though I wish there had been more play on it throughout than just the few mentions we were given. And the CLIFF HANGER ENDING...if you're not about those "oh my goodness, that can't be the end, GIVE ME MORE NOW!" feels, you might not like how this book ends. Just a warning.
I had an absolute blast reading this book and discovering that I CAN enjoy books with aliens......assuming those aliens are space elves, that is. I desperately need the next book, though, to see what becomes of our characters and how this story plays out. While the world-building and magical realism could have been delved into a little deeper, I had a great time following these characters on the first parts of this journey, and can't wait to see where things wind up. I'd recommend this to lovers of space elves and vampires, futuristic worlds, and delicious prose. Keep an eye out for the dream vagrants, Penguins--star-blood and magic can be a dangerous mix.
April 11, 2019
This book is better than the summary makes it sound.
First off, full disclosure, I'm a sucker for the Fated Mate trope. And I also dig super-logical guys who aren't good at expressing emotion. Tossed into a romance, that's just so much fun for me. And that's what this book delivers. Eldaren is a "space elf", and he didn't think it was possible for the mate-bond to spark with between an elf and a human. He's having to keep it secret because of politics. Stella is so used to elves being the enemy--and she pines for her drug-addict boyfriend, Wilder--that she's not very into Eldaren at first.
Big plot twist in the middle involving the creation of vampires. That's all I can say without more spoilers, but it's super interesting and deepens the worldbuilding. I can't wait to see where this plot thread goes. And I don't even like vampires.
Still, Stella and Eldaren have chemistry, and the book is too short. I'm already panting for the next book to see what happens next.
First off, full disclosure, I'm a sucker for the Fated Mate trope. And I also dig super-logical guys who aren't good at expressing emotion. Tossed into a romance, that's just so much fun for me. And that's what this book delivers. Eldaren is a "space elf", and he didn't think it was possible for the mate-bond to spark with between an elf and a human. He's having to keep it secret because of politics. Stella is so used to elves being the enemy--and she pines for her drug-addict boyfriend, Wilder--that she's not very into Eldaren at first.
Big plot twist in the middle involving the creation of vampires. That's all I can say without more spoilers, but it's super interesting and deepens the worldbuilding. I can't wait to see where this plot thread goes. And I don't even like vampires.
Still, Stella and Eldaren have chemistry, and the book is too short. I'm already panting for the next book to see what happens next.
March 7, 2020
I went into this one with little to no expectations and wound up enjoying it. I think it helped that the author is great at writing characters and the world was unique and interesting. Also I’m a sucker for certain tropes when it comes to romance.
This book is set in a world sometime in the Earth’s future. Earth has been through some stuff, of which we don’t know all of the details yet. But it seems society has somewhat broken down and this is the remnants. The city is what was once Seattle, but it’s probably not very recognizable in its current state. It’s run down and broken and full of danger. It’s in this city in which we find our main character, Stella, surviving. She picks through the trash looking for interesting things to sell so she can pay rent on her tent-like apartment and also get money for her brother’s medicine to help prevent his seizures. I love post-apocalyptic societies, and while I’m not sure that’s what we’re seeing here yet it’s along those lines…it’s definitely a very run down future.
Then we’re introduced to the Elves. They’ve arrived from their own planet, on a mission to restore the Earth as humans have done a pretty bang up job destroying the planet. So the space Elves are kind of like the fairies in Ferngully (did I just date myself?) except along with magic they also have technology. Because they came from space. They’ve established their headquarters here in this run down city and declared they’re now in charge. The people that live there are afraid of the Elves, afraid they’re abducting humans and doing experiments on them. There are all kinds of rumors.
Eventually, of course, Stella winds up getting captured by the Elves while breaking into Elf HQ to go dumpster diving. It’s here that she winds up meeting the Elvish Prince Eldaren. Of course he’s super hot and great at seemingly everything except for expressing emotions. The Elves are seen as cold and calculating but I think it’s just their culture, similar to Vulcans from Star Trek. Through circumstances Stella ends up as a prisoner, sort of, of the prince–but it’s more complicated than that and I don’t want to give too much away. Anyway, this is a perfect set up for the romance in the book, which is what I was most interested in other than the whole vampire thing. So, yeah. There’s a bit of a love triangle (kinda sorta) as Stella is still hung up on her old boyfriend who left her when he became addicted to a dangerous new drug. But Eldaren is alllll about Stella. I really enjoyed watching him try so hard to learn what Stella likes, what humans do compared to Elves as far as ‘dating’ and such. I admit I’m a total sucker for these types of characters and romantic plots because there’s just a tiny bit of a Beauty and the Beast thing going on here (even if the ‘beast’ is super hot….).
So, vampires. Yeah, they are also vampires in this book, although they don’t show up until later (I started to wonder at one point if they would). I have to say, I really loved this take on vampires and how they’re related to the space Elves. At first I didn’t think these two things would work well together, or that the author was adding too much (space Elves and vampires?!), but due to the world building it all makes perfect sense.
As far as negatives, I don’t have a whole lot to talk about here. It is very trope-y at points (even if they were ones I love, mostly) and sometimes I wondered about Eldaren’s motivations given his unique bond with Stella–would he have been so compassionate otherwise? But these are smaller things, really. The only other thing is that it ends on a point where you’re really going to want to read book two right away. It’s not a complete story whatsoever. Which is stated upfront in the description but I’ve read a ton of series and most books in a series don’t end so abruptly like it’s part of a longer book just split into two parts. So, I’ll be picking up book two as soon as I can. Obviously.
Honestly, thought this was a quick and fun read overall, glad I decided to pick it up, hope things get expanded a bit more in the next book. 3.5/5 stars.
This book is set in a world sometime in the Earth’s future. Earth has been through some stuff, of which we don’t know all of the details yet. But it seems society has somewhat broken down and this is the remnants. The city is what was once Seattle, but it’s probably not very recognizable in its current state. It’s run down and broken and full of danger. It’s in this city in which we find our main character, Stella, surviving. She picks through the trash looking for interesting things to sell so she can pay rent on her tent-like apartment and also get money for her brother’s medicine to help prevent his seizures. I love post-apocalyptic societies, and while I’m not sure that’s what we’re seeing here yet it’s along those lines…it’s definitely a very run down future.
Then we’re introduced to the Elves. They’ve arrived from their own planet, on a mission to restore the Earth as humans have done a pretty bang up job destroying the planet. So the space Elves are kind of like the fairies in Ferngully (did I just date myself?) except along with magic they also have technology. Because they came from space. They’ve established their headquarters here in this run down city and declared they’re now in charge. The people that live there are afraid of the Elves, afraid they’re abducting humans and doing experiments on them. There are all kinds of rumors.
Eventually, of course, Stella winds up getting captured by the Elves while breaking into Elf HQ to go dumpster diving. It’s here that she winds up meeting the Elvish Prince Eldaren. Of course he’s super hot and great at seemingly everything except for expressing emotions. The Elves are seen as cold and calculating but I think it’s just their culture, similar to Vulcans from Star Trek. Through circumstances Stella ends up as a prisoner, sort of, of the prince–but it’s more complicated than that and I don’t want to give too much away. Anyway, this is a perfect set up for the romance in the book, which is what I was most interested in other than the whole vampire thing. So, yeah. There’s a bit of a love triangle (kinda sorta) as Stella is still hung up on her old boyfriend who left her when he became addicted to a dangerous new drug. But Eldaren is alllll about Stella. I really enjoyed watching him try so hard to learn what Stella likes, what humans do compared to Elves as far as ‘dating’ and such. I admit I’m a total sucker for these types of characters and romantic plots because there’s just a tiny bit of a Beauty and the Beast thing going on here (even if the ‘beast’ is super hot….).
So, vampires. Yeah, they are also vampires in this book, although they don’t show up until later (I started to wonder at one point if they would). I have to say, I really loved this take on vampires and how they’re related to the space Elves. At first I didn’t think these two things would work well together, or that the author was adding too much (space Elves and vampires?!), but due to the world building it all makes perfect sense.
As far as negatives, I don’t have a whole lot to talk about here. It is very trope-y at points (even if they were ones I love, mostly) and sometimes I wondered about Eldaren’s motivations given his unique bond with Stella–would he have been so compassionate otherwise? But these are smaller things, really. The only other thing is that it ends on a point where you’re really going to want to read book two right away. It’s not a complete story whatsoever. Which is stated upfront in the description but I’ve read a ton of series and most books in a series don’t end so abruptly like it’s part of a longer book just split into two parts. So, I’ll be picking up book two as soon as I can. Obviously.
Honestly, thought this was a quick and fun read overall, glad I decided to pick it up, hope things get expanded a bit more in the next book. 3.5/5 stars.
May 21, 2019
Twilight has nothing on space elves.
Stars Descend by Kara Jaynes, has a most interesting premise. What if Elves were from space and their mission was to heal polluted planets. Apparently Vulcans were copyrighted.
Naturally humans see them as a threat. As Overlords come to concur.
I liked the story of Stella, a street savvy girl who winds up getting caught by the elven prince, who of course realizes he can't live without her.
Oh yeah, and then there were vampires.
My one and only complaint is that book doesn't seem to be available yet.
Stars Descend by Kara Jaynes, has a most interesting premise. What if Elves were from space and their mission was to heal polluted planets. Apparently Vulcans were copyrighted.
Naturally humans see them as a threat. As Overlords come to concur.
I liked the story of Stella, a street savvy girl who winds up getting caught by the elven prince, who of course realizes he can't live without her.
Oh yeah, and then there were vampires.
My one and only complaint is that book doesn't seem to be available yet.
April 2, 2019
I loved this book so much I stayed up all night reading it the evening I received my ARC copy.
Stella is an amazing character—clever, witty and kind— and I am in love with Eldaren. He is too wonderful for words.
All the characters in the book are fantastic but Stella and Eldaren stand out because I want to be Stella and I want to be with Eldaren.
The book is perfectly placed, the story is captivating, and the writing is superb.
An absolute must own!!!!
May 7, 2019
Great characters. The relationship between the characters felt genuine. The story had some very creative elements. It's great to see a new spin on the classic elves and humans story. The only problem with it is the major cliff hanger and not being able to read the next book yet. I'm seriously dying to see what happens next.
May 7, 2019
This was really good! It's paced well so that it's hard to put down (especially in the second half), and there are plenty of twists. There were a few things that could have been improved, and I'm not a huge fan of love triangles, but the good definitely outweighed those details in my opinion. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one!
June 2, 2019
What a fun book! I’m very new to the world of urban fantasy and don’t typically choose to read it for myself, but this book was the book of the month in a book club I’m part of, so I gave it a whirl. No regrets! Space elves, a twist on the fated-mates trope, a non-pushy look at environmental issues, and interesting characters. I’m very interested in continuing the story when the sequel comes!
April 28, 2019
A unique blend
I love the feel of urban fantasy mixed with fairy tale and myth and science fiction.
Lovable characters as well as those you want to hate. Action-packed goodness in a page-turning, gripping story.
I love the feel of urban fantasy mixed with fairy tale and myth and science fiction.
Lovable characters as well as those you want to hate. Action-packed goodness in a page-turning, gripping story.
May 26, 2019
It was a fun, nutty read. Not a book to take seriously but to me that was the appeal. There were times I rolled my eyes a bit. There is obviousness to much of it but for me it made the book a fun read. Not a book to take serious but fun.
January 27, 2021
space elves // mystical marriage bond // vampires // beauty and the beast vibes
Full RTC
Full RTC
August 23, 2021
Het was een oké verhaal. Ik ben erachter gekomen dat aliens gewoon niet zo mijn ding zijn. Als je daar wel van houdt dan zeker een aanrader.
October 20, 2024
Enjoyed this, despite it being in one of my least favorite narrative forms: alternating first person POV, present tense.
The story was decent, although somewhere after the 50% mark there was a (second, I guess) plot twist and it kinda went down a notch from there.
I'm not a fan of love triangles, or angst, and the last 25% or so was too much of that for my taste.
The narrative was done fairly well, although when this form is done really well, I can still lose myself completely in the story. However with Stars Descend I was very aware throughout that I was reading a present tense book.
The story was decent, although somewhere after the 50% mark there was a (second, I guess) plot twist and it kinda went down a notch from there.
I'm not a fan of love triangles, or angst, and the last 25% or so was too much of that for my taste.
The narrative was done fairly well, although when this form is done really well, I can still lose myself completely in the story. However with Stars Descend I was very aware throughout that I was reading a present tense book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 8, 2019I'm not sure how to rate this book, so I'm leaving that blank for now. I'm disappointed it has no ending.
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