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Star Shadow #1-4
Star Shadow: The Series
An ex-boyband, betrayed by everyone they trusted. Star Shadow met when they were only sixteen years old—four different guys, with four different dreams that coalesced into one when they became a worldwide phenomenon. Hope was shredded, loyalties tested, and love destroyed. But now there’s a chance to fix the mistakes of the past. Love renewed. Friendship resurrected. They’ve earned a brand new beginning and a fresh start. Terrible Things – When Caleb walked out, leaving his band and his lover behind, Leo knew he could never forgive. He never expected Caleb to show up again, clean and sober and wanting Star Shadow to get back together. But maybe this might not be so terrible after all. Impossible Things - For the last ten years, Benji and Diego have not only been members of Star Shadow, but best friends. Diego’s loved Benji for nearly that long. But after watching their bandmates struggle with their own demons, he’s learned to be cautious about reaching for what he wants. And what he’s always wanted is Benji. No holds barred. With every string attached. Hazardous Things - Felix can’t even remember the first time he crushed on Max, Star Shadow’s drummer. But he’s never acted on his feelings. One , because Max is his older brother’s best friend. Two , because Max is also his friend. Three , Max is technically his boss. And four , worst of all, Max is straight. Extraordinary Things - Caleb knows he’s earned Leo’s forgiveness. He wants to believe he deserves it, but just when Leo needs him more than ever, a voice in his head insists that he doesn't. But only in risking everything he and Leo, and the rest of Star Shadow, have built together, can he truly grasp how far he'll go to hold onto it.
1401 pages, ebook
Published February 18, 2021
26 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Beth Bolden
77 books678 followersA lifelong Oregonian, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband and their sweet kitten, Earl Grey. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 24, 2021
This boxset is the complete Star Shadow series by Beth Bolden. I really like it. Because it was a boxset I had a hard time not continuing reading when I should :)
Star Shadow is a boyband of four different guys who met when they were 16. Four guys with four different dreams. Four dreams that became one when they became a worldwide phenomenon.
That was until five years ago...
Terrible Things
This is the story of band mates, friends and lovers Caleb en Leo. 5 years ago Caleb became an alcoholic and walked away from the band and from his lover. Now he's back and he wants Star Shadow back together. I really liked their story. This story is full of emotions.
Impossible Things
This is the story of Benji and Diego. Both members of Star Shadow but also best friends. And although they both want mooie they don't think it's worth it to risk their friendship. I really liked their story. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes.
Hazardous Things
This is the story of Felix and Max. Felix has a crush on Max, the drummer of Star Shadow. He never acted on it because Max is his brother's best friend, his friend and also his boss. Also he's straight. I loved their story. Brother's best friend AND bisexual awakenig.....<3
Extraordinary Things
This is the book that wraps it all up. Caleb knows he earned Leo's forgiveness but does he really believe it......
This boxset is really good and very well written. It has a new exclusive bonus epilogue
Star Shadow is a boyband of four different guys who met when they were 16. Four guys with four different dreams. Four dreams that became one when they became a worldwide phenomenon.
That was until five years ago...
Terrible Things
This is the story of band mates, friends and lovers Caleb en Leo. 5 years ago Caleb became an alcoholic and walked away from the band and from his lover. Now he's back and he wants Star Shadow back together. I really liked their story. This story is full of emotions.
Impossible Things
This is the story of Benji and Diego. Both members of Star Shadow but also best friends. And although they both want mooie they don't think it's worth it to risk their friendship. I really liked their story. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes.
Hazardous Things
This is the story of Felix and Max. Felix has a crush on Max, the drummer of Star Shadow. He never acted on it because Max is his brother's best friend, his friend and also his boss. Also he's straight. I loved their story. Brother's best friend AND bisexual awakenig.....<3
Extraordinary Things
This is the book that wraps it all up. Caleb knows he earned Leo's forgiveness but does he really believe it......
This boxset is really good and very well written. It has a new exclusive bonus epilogue
February 18, 2021
This is a terrific series that had me on an emotional rollercoaster. Each book in the series follows different members of a former boy band as the reconnect and try to make up for past mistakes. I’m afraid I’ll inadvertently give something away by saying too much. I will say there are different tropes explored in each book from friends to lovers, slow burn, second chance and more. I think the author has created a set of characters that I grew to care about and enjoyed getting to know. Well worth reading.
February 21, 2021
Loved this series. The characters are fantastic and the stories are amazing reads. I enjoyed having the series in a set no waiting for the next one.
I did receive an Arc for a review
I did receive an Arc for a review
February 26, 2021
I devoured each Star Shadow novel when it came out originally, and my second read-through with this compilation didn’t change my initial feelings at all. Each couple in this series was vividly real and relatable, and I genuinely adored watching each of them struggle and work and fight through their roadblocks to find lasting love. Just when I thought the conclusion of this series couldn’t get any better, Beth added a brand new epilogue featuring the much anticipated wedding party for Leo and Caleb. Those last pages, full of memories and sweet moments and wonderful music, brought everything full-circle for me. Music has been the heart and soul of these books, the way these men express their emotions and share their deepest, heartfelt desires to the world. Of course this series had to end with one last musical number—it’s the most fitting way to showcase how special this series of romances has been.
Terrible Things: 5/5
What struck me the most as I read this book was how incredibly intense Leo and Caleb's feelings for each other were. The way they talked about each other made it obvious how life-changing their bond has been for them. We don't get to see most of the initial phases of their relationship (the love-at-first-sight, teenage puppy love, and deepening emotional bond). We don't really even get to see any of the happy times they shared before things fell apart. Where this story picks up is in the aftermath, five years after Caleb walked away from Leo and their famous band, Star Shadow.
Since this book is from Leo's perspective, it's easy to try to immediately write Caleb off as "the bad guy" for leaving. The reality is much less straightforward. In interludes, flashbacks, and discussions of the past, I learned how unhealthy and almost codependent Leo and Caleb's relationship was. Though the band's growing fame and Caleb's use of alcohol as a coping mechanism didn't make it easier for Leo and Caleb to be together, the reality is that what ultimately destroyed them was how unhealthy their love became. Caleb’s desperate decision to leave, as heartbreaking as it was for each of them, was probably what saved their love from fading out entirely. With five more years of growing and learning how to stand on their own, Leo and Caleb were finally capable of reconnecting without falling into codependency and bad coping habits. I have a lot of respect for the way Beth directly approached these issues instead of glossing over them and forcing Caleb into the role of a villain that he didn’t deserve.
While Leo and Caleb's second-chance at love was undoubtably the main focus of this story, the side characters and plotlines were very engaging. I already have an idea of which other characters might end up paired together, but I have no idea what’s next for Star Shadow and it’s exciting to guess where their journey will go next!
Impossible Things: 4/5
As much as I loved Leo and Caleb in the first book, I couldn't quite connect with Benji and Diego in the same way. Don't get me wrong--Impossible Things is a great book, and if I hadn't read Terrible Things I probably would have rated it higher. Benji and Diego were adorably sweet and hesitant in pursuing each other, and while ten years is such a long time to wait, the payoff was very much worth it. What I struggled with is what motivated Benji and Diego. After waiting ten years, why pursue something now?
Though this book is a dual narrative, I felt like I knew almost nothing about Diego's goals and plans for his future. The entire book is focused on either his role as a father or his confusing emotions about Benji. I wish I could have seen more character development from him. In contrast, Benji's future aspirations are very apparent from the first chapters. He's a perfectionist, control freak, and deathly afraid of failure. When Star Shadow disbanded, he threw himself into his personal career in an effort to stay relevant and successful. While this makes him very relatable, I had similar issues with his character arc. His fear of failure and need to control things were never really addressed and seemed to mysteriously go away towards the end of the book. Though he says he's had some big revelation about why he doesn't need to be afraid anymore, I was missing the dialogue to back it up. Leo and Caleb talked through some pretty heavy issues in their book, and I guess I just feel like there was a missed opportunity here.
Hazardous Things: 5/5
Felix and Max were all the oblivious, best friends to lovers magic I could have hoped for. Initially, I was worried this story would be too similar to Benji and Diego's: two very close friends, in denial about their feelings for years and years, finally coming together after a grand epiphany. But even though the concept is similar, everything about Felix and Max felt so different and new.
I went into this book not knowing much at all about Felix or Max--though they are present in the earlier books, they were mostly a mystery to me. I think that's why it felt so satisfying to get to look into their brains and finally find out more about who they really are. I knew Felix was the band's PA/manager, but seeing his intelligent, logical, goal-oriented nature revealed so much about him. Despite his brain and all the logic in the world, he still fell for Max, his straight best friend. Seeing such a brainy guy succumb to his romantic side and desperately hope for his feelings to be returned gave me all the feels. Max was so deeply unaware of his non-platonic feelings for Felix that I couldn't even be mad at him for stringing him along. It's so obvious that he'd never even considered what it meant that he constantly craved Felix's company.
One of the things I love most about slow-burn romances is the build-up of sexual tension. For Felix, the lust and longing had been present for years, making every innocent touch a battle to keep his heart in check. When Max finally realized he was attracted to Felix too, all bets were off. Watching the lines blur more and more, seeing the lust finally spill over into their actions was unbelievably hot. Felix and Max's timeline may make their relationship a slow-burn, but in the context of this book they got physical quickly!
Though their passion ignited easily, Felix and Max had to let go of some deep-seated fears before they were ready to acknowledge the magnitude of their feelings. Their inner turmoil and lack of communication were the main sources of angst in this book. At times, I wanted to shake each one of them and force them to admit their deepest feelings for each other. It took some stressful, heart-wrenching situations and council from the Star Shadow members, but Felix and Max's "happily ever after" was worth it.
Extraordinary Things 5/5
Every book in the Star Shadow series has been emotional, but Caleb's story surpasses them all. I think the reason this book hit me so hard is that I already know these Star Shadow band members. I've uncovered each of their backstories and delved deep into the heart of each man. I know their motivations, their deepest hopes and wishes for the future, and what makes them tick. Extraordinary Things isn't the beginning of a new journey, it's the achingly real, sentimental and sweet conclusion of three epic love stories.
Despite how happily Leo and Caleb's first book ended, these two still had issues. I'm thrilled that Beth gave them the extra pages they needed to work through the last of their trauma. Caleb in particular never addressed his own feelings of inadequacy and need to atone for his past actions. This book explores what Caleb's life has been like without self-forgiveness, how he's taken on everyone else's burdens to try to earn the second chance he's been given. It made my heart hurt to see how afraid Caleb was of messing things up again. While he and Leo were never in danger of breaking up, they couldn't truly move forward until Caleb learned to trust himself.
Outside of Caleb's personal journey, this book's fluffiness absolutely melted me. Caleb and Leo's ocean-deep love swept me away from the first pages. While there were spots of angst as Caleb struggled with his emotions, nothing could really come between them for long. On top of that, Benji and Diego's wedding is in this book and I can't believe I underestimated how adorable they are as a loved-up couple.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this compilation. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
Terrible Things: 5/5
What struck me the most as I read this book was how incredibly intense Leo and Caleb's feelings for each other were. The way they talked about each other made it obvious how life-changing their bond has been for them. We don't get to see most of the initial phases of their relationship (the love-at-first-sight, teenage puppy love, and deepening emotional bond). We don't really even get to see any of the happy times they shared before things fell apart. Where this story picks up is in the aftermath, five years after Caleb walked away from Leo and their famous band, Star Shadow.
Since this book is from Leo's perspective, it's easy to try to immediately write Caleb off as "the bad guy" for leaving. The reality is much less straightforward. In interludes, flashbacks, and discussions of the past, I learned how unhealthy and almost codependent Leo and Caleb's relationship was. Though the band's growing fame and Caleb's use of alcohol as a coping mechanism didn't make it easier for Leo and Caleb to be together, the reality is that what ultimately destroyed them was how unhealthy their love became. Caleb’s desperate decision to leave, as heartbreaking as it was for each of them, was probably what saved their love from fading out entirely. With five more years of growing and learning how to stand on their own, Leo and Caleb were finally capable of reconnecting without falling into codependency and bad coping habits. I have a lot of respect for the way Beth directly approached these issues instead of glossing over them and forcing Caleb into the role of a villain that he didn’t deserve.
While Leo and Caleb's second-chance at love was undoubtably the main focus of this story, the side characters and plotlines were very engaging. I already have an idea of which other characters might end up paired together, but I have no idea what’s next for Star Shadow and it’s exciting to guess where their journey will go next!
Impossible Things: 4/5
As much as I loved Leo and Caleb in the first book, I couldn't quite connect with Benji and Diego in the same way. Don't get me wrong--Impossible Things is a great book, and if I hadn't read Terrible Things I probably would have rated it higher. Benji and Diego were adorably sweet and hesitant in pursuing each other, and while ten years is such a long time to wait, the payoff was very much worth it. What I struggled with is what motivated Benji and Diego. After waiting ten years, why pursue something now?
Though this book is a dual narrative, I felt like I knew almost nothing about Diego's goals and plans for his future. The entire book is focused on either his role as a father or his confusing emotions about Benji. I wish I could have seen more character development from him. In contrast, Benji's future aspirations are very apparent from the first chapters. He's a perfectionist, control freak, and deathly afraid of failure. When Star Shadow disbanded, he threw himself into his personal career in an effort to stay relevant and successful. While this makes him very relatable, I had similar issues with his character arc. His fear of failure and need to control things were never really addressed and seemed to mysteriously go away towards the end of the book. Though he says he's had some big revelation about why he doesn't need to be afraid anymore, I was missing the dialogue to back it up. Leo and Caleb talked through some pretty heavy issues in their book, and I guess I just feel like there was a missed opportunity here.
Hazardous Things: 5/5
Felix and Max were all the oblivious, best friends to lovers magic I could have hoped for. Initially, I was worried this story would be too similar to Benji and Diego's: two very close friends, in denial about their feelings for years and years, finally coming together after a grand epiphany. But even though the concept is similar, everything about Felix and Max felt so different and new.
I went into this book not knowing much at all about Felix or Max--though they are present in the earlier books, they were mostly a mystery to me. I think that's why it felt so satisfying to get to look into their brains and finally find out more about who they really are. I knew Felix was the band's PA/manager, but seeing his intelligent, logical, goal-oriented nature revealed so much about him. Despite his brain and all the logic in the world, he still fell for Max, his straight best friend. Seeing such a brainy guy succumb to his romantic side and desperately hope for his feelings to be returned gave me all the feels. Max was so deeply unaware of his non-platonic feelings for Felix that I couldn't even be mad at him for stringing him along. It's so obvious that he'd never even considered what it meant that he constantly craved Felix's company.
One of the things I love most about slow-burn romances is the build-up of sexual tension. For Felix, the lust and longing had been present for years, making every innocent touch a battle to keep his heart in check. When Max finally realized he was attracted to Felix too, all bets were off. Watching the lines blur more and more, seeing the lust finally spill over into their actions was unbelievably hot. Felix and Max's timeline may make their relationship a slow-burn, but in the context of this book they got physical quickly!
Though their passion ignited easily, Felix and Max had to let go of some deep-seated fears before they were ready to acknowledge the magnitude of their feelings. Their inner turmoil and lack of communication were the main sources of angst in this book. At times, I wanted to shake each one of them and force them to admit their deepest feelings for each other. It took some stressful, heart-wrenching situations and council from the Star Shadow members, but Felix and Max's "happily ever after" was worth it.
Extraordinary Things 5/5
Every book in the Star Shadow series has been emotional, but Caleb's story surpasses them all. I think the reason this book hit me so hard is that I already know these Star Shadow band members. I've uncovered each of their backstories and delved deep into the heart of each man. I know their motivations, their deepest hopes and wishes for the future, and what makes them tick. Extraordinary Things isn't the beginning of a new journey, it's the achingly real, sentimental and sweet conclusion of three epic love stories.
Despite how happily Leo and Caleb's first book ended, these two still had issues. I'm thrilled that Beth gave them the extra pages they needed to work through the last of their trauma. Caleb in particular never addressed his own feelings of inadequacy and need to atone for his past actions. This book explores what Caleb's life has been like without self-forgiveness, how he's taken on everyone else's burdens to try to earn the second chance he's been given. It made my heart hurt to see how afraid Caleb was of messing things up again. While he and Leo were never in danger of breaking up, they couldn't truly move forward until Caleb learned to trust himself.
Outside of Caleb's personal journey, this book's fluffiness absolutely melted me. Caleb and Leo's ocean-deep love swept me away from the first pages. While there were spots of angst as Caleb struggled with his emotions, nothing could really come between them for long. On top of that, Benji and Diego's wedding is in this book and I can't believe I underestimated how adorable they are as a loved-up couple.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this compilation. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 23, 2023
Disappointing.
I tried really hard to like this series. I was into it until I noticed that the main descriptive word the author used was either wry (17 times) or wryly (42 times). Every time I saw either, I started checking out of the book. The author also despises using commas when making lists—everything was separated by and or or. It made a sentence longer and less desirable to read. Continuity from book 1 to 4 was lost as the description of characters changed. Formatting was also inconsistent, especially the last several lines of each chapter. The story itself was okay, but because of the things above, I’m discouraged from reading anything else from this author.
I tried really hard to like this series. I was into it until I noticed that the main descriptive word the author used was either wry (17 times) or wryly (42 times). Every time I saw either, I started checking out of the book. The author also despises using commas when making lists—everything was separated by and or or. It made a sentence longer and less desirable to read. Continuity from book 1 to 4 was lost as the description of characters changed. Formatting was also inconsistent, especially the last several lines of each chapter. The story itself was okay, but because of the things above, I’m discouraged from reading anything else from this author.
February 21, 2021
4.5 Stars. 5 for the first book and last book.
Star Shadow: The Complete Series is like an epic rock album. The tempo varies between slow and fast. It will provoke strong emotions, joy and sorrow, laughter and heartache. Each book in the box set has its own rhythm and story to tell but taken all together is an amazing complete experience.
Five years ago, Star Shadow was on the cusp of greatness. They were 5 friends that hit success, but they were young, naïve, under the control of their producers and they made a lot of mistakes. Everything fell apart and they crashed. The series starts 5 years later and with the premise of how do you come back from that professionally and emotionally? Each of the band members have quite different attitudes and personalities but are held together by a core of friendship that gets tested to its limit. There are some profoundly serious subjects in the book. Depression, alcoholism, bad life choices, miscommunication and wrecked lives.
It is hard to encompass the whole set into one review, and the description of each book explains its plot, so I will pick out a few highlights. Each couple has their own book and their own challenges to find their way to each other through hell and heartbreak in some cases. Central to all the stories is the importance of communication and honesty, something they struggle with.
The first book, Terrible Things, is a story of second chances. It broke my heart and then patched it back together again. It is a story of struggle and forgiveness, and what happens when true love just is not enough to save someone unless they save themselves.
The second book is Diego and Benji’s story. It is a slow burn romance 10 years in the making with some major miscommunication and bad choices along the way to their HEA.
Hazardous Things, book three, has a bff to lovers, bisexual awakening theme. Max and Felix have been circling each other for years and are finally coming to a place love realization.
Extraordinary Things wraps all the previous books up with a revisitation of Caleb and Leo lives as Caleb struggles with his ambition, self-worth and his right to be with Leo. It has a heartfelt ending that ties the whole series up beautifully.
If you've read any of Beth Bolden's other series there is a nice nod to the Kitchen Gods series with references and few appearances of previous locations and characters.
My only issue with the box set is it took over my life for a week ;)
Life Tip: sleep is a thing!
Set some time aside and be ready to settle in and immerse yourself in the loves and lives of Star Shadow. And have tissues.
March 14, 2021
The series comprises of four books, Terrible Things, Which while primarily Leo and Caleb's story you meet the other guys and learn about them also. Impossible Things, Diego and Benji's story. Hazardous Things, Max and Felix's story and then last but by no means least we have Extraordinary Things, a bonus epilogue.
The story starts when the guys are sixteen and seventeen years old and while they are a band it's before they become famous, the story goes back and forth between past and present ( Ten year time period) and shows how the pressures of stardom affect them all. The books have alot of angst and includes details of alcohol addiction. Depression. I loved the series and at times I found it to be extremely emotional and inspiring. MM romance. Bi awakening. Best friend's brother. Best friend to lover. Pageturner. Be prepared to become immersed in the world of Star Shadow
The story starts when the guys are sixteen and seventeen years old and while they are a band it's before they become famous, the story goes back and forth between past and present ( Ten year time period) and shows how the pressures of stardom affect them all. The books have alot of angst and includes details of alcohol addiction. Depression. I loved the series and at times I found it to be extremely emotional and inspiring. MM romance. Bi awakening. Best friend's brother. Best friend to lover. Pageturner. Be prepared to become immersed in the world of Star Shadow
February 27, 2021
Well written Rock star series.
Beth Bolden captured me from the first chapter of Terrible Things, the heart break experienced by Leo was palpable, and just jumped from the page. So many feels!
It looked behind the glamour and glitz of the entertainment world, and opening your eyes to the betrayal of Star Shadow, by people who they trusted. It was quite emotional tracking the band's naivety from the start of the series, to how things ended up broken.
Throughout the series Ms Bolden described the struggle and heartache Star Shadow experienced, especially in Leo and Caleb, their story is the most heart breaking of all the MCs... I liked that the author didn't give the couple a quick fix. Leo's heart was broken into pieces, and there was no way he was coming back from that magically fixed, when Caleb appeared again.
The remaining books in the series aren't as dark as the initial story. Still, they're good reads, and it's interesting to read how the other band members interact with Leo and Caleb, I loved how protective they were of Leo, especially Diego and Benji.
I enjoyed all of the books in the series. I loved how all the men came together, to help each other find their partners. Diego and Benji are really sweet together, it takes a while for them to sort their relationship, they're very different and often see things from different perspectives, that they often come to loggerheads. Still, it's obvious that they're meant for one another, I enjoyed the light relief which was provided by Diego's daughter, Ana, provided.
Amongst all the angst of books 1,2 and 4, Felix and Max's book is somewhat light hearted. This a gentle read, two guys coming together when they need one another, it's quite a predictable story, but that doesn't take away from the reading of it. I love a good friends to lovers story, and this fulfilled all the requirements. I could have shaken them both at times, the miscommunication between them was maddening, considering they reckon they best friends. Still, a nice read, and it was also interesting to see how the MCs from the other books were getting on.
Such a good read, and great writing and well fleshed out characters, as expected from Beth Bolden. If you like loads if feels, emotion and angst, you'll enjoy these.
I received an ARC of this series, which in no way influenced my opinion.
Beth Bolden captured me from the first chapter of Terrible Things, the heart break experienced by Leo was palpable, and just jumped from the page. So many feels!
It looked behind the glamour and glitz of the entertainment world, and opening your eyes to the betrayal of Star Shadow, by people who they trusted. It was quite emotional tracking the band's naivety from the start of the series, to how things ended up broken.
Throughout the series Ms Bolden described the struggle and heartache Star Shadow experienced, especially in Leo and Caleb, their story is the most heart breaking of all the MCs... I liked that the author didn't give the couple a quick fix. Leo's heart was broken into pieces, and there was no way he was coming back from that magically fixed, when Caleb appeared again.
The remaining books in the series aren't as dark as the initial story. Still, they're good reads, and it's interesting to read how the other band members interact with Leo and Caleb, I loved how protective they were of Leo, especially Diego and Benji.
I enjoyed all of the books in the series. I loved how all the men came together, to help each other find their partners. Diego and Benji are really sweet together, it takes a while for them to sort their relationship, they're very different and often see things from different perspectives, that they often come to loggerheads. Still, it's obvious that they're meant for one another, I enjoyed the light relief which was provided by Diego's daughter, Ana, provided.
Amongst all the angst of books 1,2 and 4, Felix and Max's book is somewhat light hearted. This a gentle read, two guys coming together when they need one another, it's quite a predictable story, but that doesn't take away from the reading of it. I love a good friends to lovers story, and this fulfilled all the requirements. I could have shaken them both at times, the miscommunication between them was maddening, considering they reckon they best friends. Still, a nice read, and it was also interesting to see how the MCs from the other books were getting on.
Such a good read, and great writing and well fleshed out characters, as expected from Beth Bolden. If you like loads if feels, emotion and angst, you'll enjoy these.
I received an ARC of this series, which in no way influenced my opinion.
March 9, 2021
This is my second read through of this series. I have the individual books, even the two audiobooks, but couldn’t pass up the opportunity to grab the box set when it came up for review. Besides the convenience factors, the box set also includes a bonus epilogue. I don’t know about you, but it’s hard to pass up a chance to reconnect with characters I’ve fallen for. This epilogue was the perfect treat.
Caleb and Leo get the biggest focus in the series, as they get two books. Their past history is heartbreaking and beautiful. I love how things weren’t just glossed over. They really had to work through the pain, mistrust, and everything that resulted from when their relationship failed, and the band broke up. Their journey begins and ends the series. It also sets the stage for the rest of the series, because the band gets back together.
Benji and Diego were such great characters. I loved their story as well. They’ve been friends forever, and Benji has harbored a crush on Diego for YEARS, albeit unrequited and never confessed. Life has a way of making its own plans, as things begin to shift for them. Watching their love story unfold was heartwarming. I loved them together.
Max and Felix are connected through Leo, Felix’s older brother and Max’s BFF. Hands off—all around. When Max has surgery, and needs someone to help him out during recovery, he turns to his friends, whom are all busy. Leo comes to the rescue, promising to send help—hello, Felix. Both men are drawn to the other, but know it’s not a good idea. With the close proximity, it’s hard to hold back for long. I felt their story was cute, and loved watching it all unfold.
This series is one of my favorites from the author, it is well written, has great characters, keeps your attention, and makes your heart go putter patter as these men each get their happy ever afters.
***I received a copy of this book for my reading pleasure. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
Caleb and Leo get the biggest focus in the series, as they get two books. Their past history is heartbreaking and beautiful. I love how things weren’t just glossed over. They really had to work through the pain, mistrust, and everything that resulted from when their relationship failed, and the band broke up. Their journey begins and ends the series. It also sets the stage for the rest of the series, because the band gets back together.
Benji and Diego were such great characters. I loved their story as well. They’ve been friends forever, and Benji has harbored a crush on Diego for YEARS, albeit unrequited and never confessed. Life has a way of making its own plans, as things begin to shift for them. Watching their love story unfold was heartwarming. I loved them together.
Max and Felix are connected through Leo, Felix’s older brother and Max’s BFF. Hands off—all around. When Max has surgery, and needs someone to help him out during recovery, he turns to his friends, whom are all busy. Leo comes to the rescue, promising to send help—hello, Felix. Both men are drawn to the other, but know it’s not a good idea. With the close proximity, it’s hard to hold back for long. I felt their story was cute, and loved watching it all unfold.
This series is one of my favorites from the author, it is well written, has great characters, keeps your attention, and makes your heart go putter patter as these men each get their happy ever afters.
***I received a copy of this book for my reading pleasure. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
February 18, 2021
Beth Bolden's Star Shadow series is now available in a boxset. Get the four stories plus an exclusive bonus epilogue novella that will make you feel feelings, smile and fall 8n love.
🎵Terrible Things 🎵
This story had all the feels. Sad moments of heartbreak and loss. The complicated feeling of facing your past and trying to move forward and trying to forgive and be forgiven. The happiness of finding your friend and lover once again. Caleb and Leo are wonderful characters that grabbed me with their messy story and the beauty of their love. Its a slow burn and definitely worth the read.
🎵Impossible Things 🎵
This time we get to delve into the journey of love with Benji and Diego as the main characters. They are finally ready to admit to themselves and to each other what the people closest to them have known for almost a decade... they are supposed to be together. But going from Friends to Lovers is a process a d especially when you are rockstar bandmates, not publicly "out", and have to balance so many other things while embracing the love you share. There were a few times I found myself thinking "oh no, dont do that... bad idea, man" and then " awwww, these guys -". I love Diego and Benji together and find their relationship sweet and sexy. I loved to also see the other Star Shadow guys who are so fun.
🎵Hazardous Things🎵
This is an addictive tale of Rockstars figuring out their lives and friends becoming lovers with an added best friend's brother feel. Felix and Max heat up the pages and deliver their lovestory of confusion, devotion, connection, lust, heat, steam and love.
🎵Extraordinary Things🎵
This contemporary M/M romance about rockstars, second chances, forgiveness, and true love is emotional and wonderful. Leo and Caleb's love story had me feeling so many feelings and beeding to see these two find their way together into forever.
🎵Star Shadow Forever🎵
This bonus epilogue story is an amazing treat!
Definitely Binge-worthy and wonderful. I highly recommend.
🎵Terrible Things 🎵
This story had all the feels. Sad moments of heartbreak and loss. The complicated feeling of facing your past and trying to move forward and trying to forgive and be forgiven. The happiness of finding your friend and lover once again. Caleb and Leo are wonderful characters that grabbed me with their messy story and the beauty of their love. Its a slow burn and definitely worth the read.
🎵Impossible Things 🎵
This time we get to delve into the journey of love with Benji and Diego as the main characters. They are finally ready to admit to themselves and to each other what the people closest to them have known for almost a decade... they are supposed to be together. But going from Friends to Lovers is a process a d especially when you are rockstar bandmates, not publicly "out", and have to balance so many other things while embracing the love you share. There were a few times I found myself thinking "oh no, dont do that... bad idea, man" and then " awwww, these guys -". I love Diego and Benji together and find their relationship sweet and sexy. I loved to also see the other Star Shadow guys who are so fun.
🎵Hazardous Things🎵
This is an addictive tale of Rockstars figuring out their lives and friends becoming lovers with an added best friend's brother feel. Felix and Max heat up the pages and deliver their lovestory of confusion, devotion, connection, lust, heat, steam and love.
🎵Extraordinary Things🎵
This contemporary M/M romance about rockstars, second chances, forgiveness, and true love is emotional and wonderful. Leo and Caleb's love story had me feeling so many feelings and beeding to see these two find their way together into forever.
🎵Star Shadow Forever🎵
This bonus epilogue story is an amazing treat!
Definitely Binge-worthy and wonderful. I highly recommend.
February 19, 2021
Terrible Things-Leo and Caleb were in a boy band Star Shadow along with 3 other friends. They fell in love as teenagers, but with circumstances beyond their control Caleb became an alcoholic and disappeared after a show one night. Fast forward 5 years and Caleb shows back up wanting the band to get back together and resume their tour. This story was full of angst and heart break, gave me ugly tears! It was so good.
Impossible Things-Diego and Benji have been friends for years secretly in love with each other. They are part of the band Star Shadow. They both married other people thinking that the other one didn’t love them. Benji is forced to confront his feelings or risk losing Diego. Their story was full of angst, an emotional roller coaster.
Hazardous Things-Max is the drummer for Star Shadow, Felix is their PA and Leo’s brother. Felix has been in love with Max for 10 long years but has decided that he must get over his unrequited love. When Max has surgery, Felix decides to help him to recover. Max has always been in love with Felix but never realized it until forced to… This story gave me those dang ugly tears, it was so good.
Extraordinary Things-This story was from Caleb’s POV and it was incredible. Learning his side, his thoughts and feelings were heart breaking for me personally. I cried ugly tears at times. The story delves deep into Caleb’s mind, his insecurities and love for Leo. This story was fantastic. I loved how we got to see Benji and Diego’s wedding. I’m going to miss these guys and the incredible world that Beth Bolden created!!
Star Shadow Forever-Bonus Epilogue-Yay!!! We got a bonus surprise at the end!! So freakin good!!
Overall this was a fantastic box set!! The collection complete with a fantastic little nugget at the end! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
Impossible Things-Diego and Benji have been friends for years secretly in love with each other. They are part of the band Star Shadow. They both married other people thinking that the other one didn’t love them. Benji is forced to confront his feelings or risk losing Diego. Their story was full of angst, an emotional roller coaster.
Hazardous Things-Max is the drummer for Star Shadow, Felix is their PA and Leo’s brother. Felix has been in love with Max for 10 long years but has decided that he must get over his unrequited love. When Max has surgery, Felix decides to help him to recover. Max has always been in love with Felix but never realized it until forced to… This story gave me those dang ugly tears, it was so good.
Extraordinary Things-This story was from Caleb’s POV and it was incredible. Learning his side, his thoughts and feelings were heart breaking for me personally. I cried ugly tears at times. The story delves deep into Caleb’s mind, his insecurities and love for Leo. This story was fantastic. I loved how we got to see Benji and Diego’s wedding. I’m going to miss these guys and the incredible world that Beth Bolden created!!
Star Shadow Forever-Bonus Epilogue-Yay!!! We got a bonus surprise at the end!! So freakin good!!
Overall this was a fantastic box set!! The collection complete with a fantastic little nugget at the end! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
February 28, 2021
I love box sets. They are perfect for binge reading. 😀 The Star Shadow box set is a terrific one. Each individual book is great, but you can roll right from one to the next which really helps the continuity of these interconnected standalones. There are the four main stories and a bonus epilogue in this one. Terrible Things, Book 1, is an emotional read with heartbreak and loss but balanced by the optimism of second chances and moving forward to something better. Caleb and Leo are wonderful characters in a slow burn romance that delivers. Book 2, Impossible Things, focuses on Benji and Diego in a friends to lovers, sweet, sexy romance. Book 3, Hazardous Things, is Max and Felix in a best friend’s brother, hot and steamy romance. Book 4, Extraordinary Things, brings us full circle, back to Leo and Caleb. The bonus epilogue story is amazing. Overall, I highly recommend.
March 3, 2021
I enjoyed a lot this bundle! Every story had an interesting plot, with a couple trying to find a together. I have read all the individual books, so having the opportunity to read them again, one after another was a treat. Every book featured a couple, with their own struggles and obstacles they need to overcome to be together. Some parts are highly emotional and cause me some angst and made me cry, but I loved every minute. At the end the bonus epilogue novella was worthy of all my tears. A must have for anyone as fan of the series as me. Simply the perfect way to read this series!
February 20, 2021
Loved this series! These books make you feel everything! Sad, angry, happiness, love, laughter. There’s friends to lovers, brothers best friend, second chances, slow burn, awakening. I love all these couples! Leo and Caleb had so much they went through and had to learn all about forgiveness and trust. Benji and Diego are such great friends who both made mistakes until finally ready to admit how they really felt about each other. Felix has been in love with Max for so long but just thinks of him as a friend until they’re thrown together and starts to realize maybe there’s more. These stories just pull you in and makes you fall in love with all these guys and their stories! I couldn’t put it down! Star Shadow Forever was such a great ending! I love how they used music to express themselves! They definitely came full circle! I absolutely adored these guys! I very highly recommend this series! Received arc and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
February 25, 2021
The Star Shadow series is new to me, so I was excited to get it in a box set. One-stop shopping, if you will.
All these guys suffer in different ways as they work towards their heart’s desire. Their HEA���s are hard-fought and fraught with a lot of introspection and vacillating on what they want and how to get it, not to mention the interference from their friends.
I wish there were more action/interaction between the MCs rather than the introspection, but on the whole, the author got the point across.
My favorite is Felix and Max in Hazardous Things. These two talked to each other. They had real conversations, exchanged banter, touched each other’s lives, and shared intimate moments that have an emotional connection that I could feel. I was invested in their HEA and was satisfied when they achieved it. I have confidence in their ability to stay together for the long haul.
I look forward to more from this author.
All these guys suffer in different ways as they work towards their heart’s desire. Their HEA���s are hard-fought and fraught with a lot of introspection and vacillating on what they want and how to get it, not to mention the interference from their friends.
I wish there were more action/interaction between the MCs rather than the introspection, but on the whole, the author got the point across.
My favorite is Felix and Max in Hazardous Things. These two talked to each other. They had real conversations, exchanged banter, touched each other’s lives, and shared intimate moments that have an emotional connection that I could feel. I was invested in their HEA and was satisfied when they achieved it. I have confidence in their ability to stay together for the long haul.
I look forward to more from this author.
February 19, 2021
5 Stars – MM – Rock Star/Boy Band – Friends to Lovers – HEA
Beth Bolden does it again! Her Star Shadow stories are beautiful and heartwarming. As always, her characters are easy to bond with and she does a fabulous job of portraying their emotional depth.
Terrible Things: Leo/Caleb (Leo’s POV)
Soulmates – Young Love – Second Chances - Hurt/Comfort - Low heat/High angst – Trust/Forgiveness
Impossible Things: Benji/Diego
Yearning – Coming Out - Sexual Tension
Hazardous Things: Max/Felix
Slow Burn - Gay for You - Unrequited Love
Extraordinary Things: Leo/Caleb (Caleb’s POV)
Self-forgiveness – Close out of series - Guys settle into their relationships
*Thank you for Advance Reader’s Copy. I am happy to leave my voluntary review.
Beth Bolden does it again! Her Star Shadow stories are beautiful and heartwarming. As always, her characters are easy to bond with and she does a fabulous job of portraying their emotional depth.
Terrible Things: Leo/Caleb (Leo’s POV)
Soulmates – Young Love – Second Chances - Hurt/Comfort - Low heat/High angst – Trust/Forgiveness
Impossible Things: Benji/Diego
Yearning – Coming Out - Sexual Tension
Hazardous Things: Max/Felix
Slow Burn - Gay for You - Unrequited Love
Extraordinary Things: Leo/Caleb (Caleb’s POV)
Self-forgiveness – Close out of series - Guys settle into their relationships
*Thank you for Advance Reader’s Copy. I am happy to leave my voluntary review.
March 2, 2021
Very vivid characters and totally immersive. It really felt as if I was getting an insider’s view of a boy band and the pressure they live with. I liked all of the characters and their stories but Leo/Caleb were the most intense pairing and I was happy to get the bonus epilogue in the boxed set and revisit them.
Heartbreaking and life affirming stories all wrapped up in one package!
Heartbreaking and life affirming stories all wrapped up in one package!
February 21, 2021
No spoilers of any kind included.
So all I’m going to say about Star Shadow: The Complete series is, it was an amazing exciting ride!
Beth Bolden did a fantastic job when she wrote this series because I was pulled in at the first chapter of the first book and I couldn’t climb out until I finished the last page of the last book.
So I am going to say yes I do recommend this series!
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
So all I’m going to say about Star Shadow: The Complete series is, it was an amazing exciting ride!
Beth Bolden did a fantastic job when she wrote this series because I was pulled in at the first chapter of the first book and I couldn’t climb out until I finished the last page of the last book.
So I am going to say yes I do recommend this series!
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
February 28, 2021
I had read and reviewed the four books when they were first published. I re-read them in this box-set with the bonus story and I just fell in love all over again with all the band members. Each couple is different but they are all linked together creating a wonderful heartwarming friend and family group beyond their professional relationship. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2021
Wow this was a seriously binge-worthy box set! It contained so many different tropes and stories I was hooked from the beginning and just kept reading. I hadn’t actually read any of this series yet so it was amazing to jump into the world and stay there for a satisfyingly long time, getting to explore HEA’s for some many different people! I really enjoyed the bonus content and it made the box set flow and feel well-rounded. I did enjoy some more than others, but overall a very enjoyable read!
February 23, 2021
This was a beautifully written series about a band...of friends...who play beautiful music. It's a romance with several couples working out their differences while staying friends, and couples. It's about making music when sometimes all you want to do is walk away and be alone. You'll laugh, and cry and rejoice when the music works and so do the relationships.
Pull up a chair and immerse yourself in Star Shadow.
Pull up a chair and immerse yourself in Star Shadow.
February 28, 2021
I was excited to read this series and it did not disappoint. I was looking forward to watching each character grow and find fulfill their dreams and find love. Beth Bolden provides another solid group of books. I highly recommend this series.
February 25, 2021
As a reader there is nothing better than binging on a series that you love.
Star Shadow: the Complete Series lets the reader do just that.
I devoured one story after the other and didn't stop until I had read the last one.
Each book and their MC's will capture your heart. They are all richly developed characters and their stories a pleasure to read.
Great series!
Star Shadow: the Complete Series lets the reader do just that.
I devoured one story after the other and didn't stop until I had read the last one.
Each book and their MC's will capture your heart. They are all richly developed characters and their stories a pleasure to read.
Great series!
February 27, 2021
Love this series.
Highly recommend.
I received an arc from the author and this is my honest review.
Highly recommend.
I received an arc from the author and this is my honest review.
February 20, 2021
This book sucked me right in and I couldn’t put it down. A fantastic cast of characters with vivid emotions all set to an amazing soundtrack. It was so lovely and well written - a wonderful series. You’ll fall in love with every member of the band (and some non members too ;)
February 26, 2021
Great box set. Perfect for binge reading the entire series! I love these stories. The band comes to life on the page.
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