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Stella and Sol #1
God of the Sun
A prince from the dark side shows up at my doorstep with one question.
Will I be his bride?
I have many, many reasons to say no.
The prince comes from a land of barbarians.
I will never again see the sun.
It is a certain death sentence.
At first, it seems that I have a choice.
But I discover that if I say no,
Thousands will die.
All of those lives hang on my answer to that one simple question.
Will I say yes or will I say no?
Will I be his bride?
I have many, many reasons to say no.
The prince comes from a land of barbarians.
I will never again see the sun.
It is a certain death sentence.
At first, it seems that I have a choice.
But I discover that if I say no,
Thousands will die.
All of those lives hang on my answer to that one simple question.
Will I say yes or will I say no?
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2017
1024 people are currently reading
1783 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Loth
94 books989 followersKimberly Loth can’t decide where she wants to settle down. She’s lived in Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Utah, California, Oregon, and South Carolina. She finally decided to make the leap and leave the U.S. behind for a few years. Currently, she lives in Cairo, Egypt with her husband and two kids.
She is a high school math teacher by day (please don’t hold that against her) and YA author by night. She loves romantic movies, chocolate, roses, and crazy adventures. Kissed is her first novel.
She is a high school math teacher by day (please don’t hold that against her) and YA author by night. She loves romantic movies, chocolate, roses, and crazy adventures. Kissed is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
March 3, 2017
Kimberly Loth has another great start to a series on her hands. Fans of her YA series The Dragon Kings are going to love this series. This book is about two worlds that are opposites. Sol is a town of constant sunshine, slavery, and a controlling conscience called "The Voice" who is with you all day until midnight telling you what you can and can't do and can cause you pain also. Stella is a city of endless night, no slavery but they do have prisoners, and they have magic which also only works until midnight like "The Voice." Stellans also have a hard time growing crops and keeping livestock because of the lack of sunlight. So they trade with Sol for the things they need and Sol trades for magic which they don't have. The book starts out with Stella getting a prophecy that can only be averted if Sol and Stella are united. Sol also gets a prophecy, but it is different than the one Stella got and is a lot more harmful to the High Princess of Sol, Zwaantie. God of the Sun is set mainly in Sol, and so we don't get a whole lot of background about Stella.
The main characters are the High Princess of Sol, Zwaantie who is training to be a midwife and doesn't want to be queen and she doesn't want to marry any of the princes of Sol. Her best friend is a slave and a Stellan by the name of Lucy. Zwaantie would like to run away and marry Lucy's brother Phoenix. High Chancellor Raaf is Zwaantie's brother, and Phoenix is his slave. Raaf has come back from studying to be the next high chancellor and is no longer the fun-loving brother that he was. His job is to interact with the "Voice." High Prince of Stella, Leo has come to Sol to marry the high princess and avert the prophecy. He falls madly in love with Zwaantie on sight. Zwaantie sees a way to have Phoenix and get the slave bonds removed if she agrees to marry Leo and have the wedding in Stella.
Okay on to the reason this review got only a like rating for me. The book did start out very slow with lots of background info and a very whiny, rebellious, and self-centered high princess. I did like her interaction with Leo, and so I am looking forward to the next book to see more of their interactions.
Another thing that I just couldn't get over and I understand that this is a sci-fiction story and not reality, but I think the descriptions of the characters of Sol and Stella would have been more believable if they had been switched. The people of Sol are depicted as being light haired, fair skinned, light colored eyes and always being completely covered in clothes. This is a farming town, and you have all of the traits that do the worst in the sunlight being in the all sun town. The stellans are depicted as being dark haired, dark eyed, with golden complexions and being nearly naked all day long in a city that is always dark, and I would think on the cooler side. Now granted that Stella does have magic so maybe the temperature there is magically regulated only time will tell, but Sol doesn't have magic, and so I would think their town would be more on the hot side.
And for these reasons, the book only got a liked rating for me. Anyway like I said before the book was enjoyable, but I had these questions whispering in my mind stealing little bits of enjoyment from my reading experience.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
The main characters are the High Princess of Sol, Zwaantie who is training to be a midwife and doesn't want to be queen and she doesn't want to marry any of the princes of Sol. Her best friend is a slave and a Stellan by the name of Lucy. Zwaantie would like to run away and marry Lucy's brother Phoenix. High Chancellor Raaf is Zwaantie's brother, and Phoenix is his slave. Raaf has come back from studying to be the next high chancellor and is no longer the fun-loving brother that he was. His job is to interact with the "Voice." High Prince of Stella, Leo has come to Sol to marry the high princess and avert the prophecy. He falls madly in love with Zwaantie on sight. Zwaantie sees a way to have Phoenix and get the slave bonds removed if she agrees to marry Leo and have the wedding in Stella.
Okay on to the reason this review got only a like rating for me. The book did start out very slow with lots of background info and a very whiny, rebellious, and self-centered high princess. I did like her interaction with Leo, and so I am looking forward to the next book to see more of their interactions.
Another thing that I just couldn't get over and I understand that this is a sci-fiction story and not reality, but I think the descriptions of the characters of Sol and Stella would have been more believable if they had been switched. The people of Sol are depicted as being light haired, fair skinned, light colored eyes and always being completely covered in clothes. This is a farming town, and you have all of the traits that do the worst in the sunlight being in the all sun town. The stellans are depicted as being dark haired, dark eyed, with golden complexions and being nearly naked all day long in a city that is always dark, and I would think on the cooler side. Now granted that Stella does have magic so maybe the temperature there is magically regulated only time will tell, but Sol doesn't have magic, and so I would think their town would be more on the hot side.
And for these reasons, the book only got a liked rating for me. Anyway like I said before the book was enjoyable, but I had these questions whispering in my mind stealing little bits of enjoyment from my reading experience.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
July 11, 2017
A decent start to a book series, however, it drips of pretty much all the cliches.
It's entertaining, don't get me wrong, but like pretty much every novel ever, it is extremely derivative, with little world building, and a really creepy "voice" that commands everything, a love triangle, sort of, where one of them is total insta-love, to die for the main protagonist, even though she has no character. Honestly, most of the plot is her moaning about marriage. It's the typical, marry a prince, but she falls in love with (guess what? Not a prince, a commoner, no a slave) someone her parents totally don't accept, but it isn't totally prejudice and wrong, because the slaves work... and take care of the city... whatever..............................................
Oh how I wish the age of derivative YA novels would end...
One can dream.
It's entertaining, don't get me wrong, but like pretty much every novel ever, it is extremely derivative, with little world building, and a really creepy "voice" that commands everything, a love triangle, sort of, where one of them is total insta-love, to die for the main protagonist, even though she has no character. Honestly, most of the plot is her moaning about marriage. It's the typical, marry a prince, but she falls in love with (guess what? Not a prince, a commoner, no a slave) someone her parents totally don't accept, but it isn't totally prejudice and wrong, because the slaves work... and take care of the city... whatever..............................................
Oh how I wish the age of derivative YA novels would end...
One can dream.
February 22, 2017
**3.5 stars**
God of the Sun is the first book in the new series Stella and Sol by Kimberly Loth. The world is divided into two parts - Sol (light) and Stella (darkness). The sun always shines in Sol and Stella remains under the stars. The book starts with a prophecy given by the Old Mother which was considered a legend in both the kingdoms. The two kingdoms must be united to stop the newborn of Stella and many others from dying. The fifth son of the high King, Leo takes it upon himself to ask for the hand of the high Princess of Sol, Zwaantie.
Both the kingdoms are very interesting. Actions of people of Sol are more or lesscontrolled influenced by the Voice. I really liked the chapters with the Voice in it. I think he is a really complex character and I want to know more about him. I also want to know more about Stella, maybe because most of the entire book takes place in Sol. The cultural difference between the two Kingdoms is vast. They are divided by a wall of mist which makes the crossing over really tricky. I found the whole concept really intriguing.
Zwaantie is a sixteen-year-old girl who is basically the wild child (as per Sol standards). She is the disobedient Princess of Sol who always gets scolded by the Voice. I admire her for doing what she wants and not letting anyone walk over her. Her mother wants her to get married and take over the throne, but she thinks it's too early. She doesn't want to be the Queen and take the responsibility of the Kingdom. To escape her responsibilities, she falls in love with a slave and devises a plan to run away with him by using the affection of the High Prince for her advantage. Then there is also the whole matter of someone trying to kill her.
I feel like in the last scene Zwaantie actions were out of character, but maybe it has something to do with the plot of next book.
All in all, the book was really interesting and a quick read. I hope for more world building and more of Stella in the next book. AND PLEASE LET MY SHIP SAIL!!!
P.S. - I ship Zwaantie and Leo.
**Received an arc**
God of the Sun is the first book in the new series Stella and Sol by Kimberly Loth. The world is divided into two parts - Sol (light) and Stella (darkness). The sun always shines in Sol and Stella remains under the stars. The book starts with a prophecy given by the Old Mother which was considered a legend in both the kingdoms. The two kingdoms must be united to stop the newborn of Stella and many others from dying. The fifth son of the high King, Leo takes it upon himself to ask for the hand of the high Princess of Sol, Zwaantie.
Both the kingdoms are very interesting. Actions of people of Sol are more or less
Zwaantie is a sixteen-year-old girl who is basically the wild child (as per Sol standards). She is the disobedient Princess of Sol who always gets scolded by the Voice. I admire her for doing what she wants and not letting anyone walk over her. Her mother wants her to get married and take over the throne, but she thinks it's too early. She doesn't want to be the Queen and take the responsibility of the Kingdom. To escape her responsibilities, she falls in love with a slave and devises a plan to run away with him by using the affection of the High Prince for her advantage. Then there is also the whole matter of someone trying to kill her.
I feel like in the last scene Zwaantie actions were out of character, but maybe it has something to do with the plot of next book.
All in all, the book was really interesting and a quick read. I hope for more world building and more of Stella in the next book. AND PLEASE LET MY SHIP SAIL!!!
P.S. - I ship Zwaantie and Leo.
**Received an arc**
December 10, 2018
Oh my god! Is this book for real ??
Before reading the author’s profile at the book’s end, I was constantly wondering if I’d stumbled on some obscure 10 year old or a teenager’s first-attempt at writing a fantasy book - and if so, I’ll cut them some slack.
Because frankly this book is plain awful. From its jumpy and stilted writing style, poor sentence structure and word usage, and no concept of a real setting and world building, this book is wrong on a number of levels. And then there’s the derogatory and plain ‘stupid‘ peaking out of the author which is pretty worrying coming from a functioning adult !!
But lo and behold, this book is actually from an author with multiple books under her belt and who has supposedly traveled the world ?! How, just how can one be so dense and close-minded after so-called ‘traveling the world’? How has she been not called out for writing such offensively lame and shaming material ??
From the pitiable, gagging and casually insensitive attitude regarding slaves; the stilted and wooden caricatures passing off as characters; an ultra silly and extremely self-centered and self-absorbed protagonist who plainly doesn’t believe in using a brain (if she has one that is — even Luna her best friend/slave lost it with her eventually !!); the bumbling and obviously forced love interests; the cow, filth and (seriously, really??) loose-character-woman-term references (oh lord!); forced drama; and just about every other cliche from a lame villain to a wafer thin and almost a nonexistent plot; this book is seriously the worst I’ve read at least this year — and I finished it because just like a train wreck is fascinating, I wanted to see just how worse it could’ve gotten by the end !
Needless to say, I won’t be reading anything from this author even if you gave me a million free books of my choice accompanying it !!
Before reading the author’s profile at the book’s end, I was constantly wondering if I’d stumbled on some obscure 10 year old or a teenager’s first-attempt at writing a fantasy book - and if so, I’ll cut them some slack.
Because frankly this book is plain awful. From its jumpy and stilted writing style, poor sentence structure and word usage, and no concept of a real setting and world building, this book is wrong on a number of levels. And then there’s the derogatory and plain ‘stupid‘ peaking out of the author which is pretty worrying coming from a functioning adult !!
But lo and behold, this book is actually from an author with multiple books under her belt and who has supposedly traveled the world ?! How, just how can one be so dense and close-minded after so-called ‘traveling the world’? How has she been not called out for writing such offensively lame and shaming material ??
From the pitiable, gagging and casually insensitive attitude regarding slaves; the stilted and wooden caricatures passing off as characters; an ultra silly and extremely self-centered and self-absorbed protagonist who plainly doesn’t believe in using a brain (if she has one that is — even Luna her best friend/slave lost it with her eventually !!); the bumbling and obviously forced love interests; the cow, filth and (seriously, really??) loose-character-woman-term references (oh lord!); forced drama; and just about every other cliche from a lame villain to a wafer thin and almost a nonexistent plot; this book is seriously the worst I’ve read at least this year — and I finished it because just like a train wreck is fascinating, I wanted to see just how worse it could’ve gotten by the end !
Needless to say, I won’t be reading anything from this author even if you gave me a million free books of my choice accompanying it !!
February 21, 2020
I loved this! It read so quick and felt unique compared to most YA fantasy. Plus it's on kindle unlimited!
November 10, 2017
I am subscribed to Kimberly Loth's newsletter, so every time she has a new book I get an ARC. Thank you so much, Kimberly Loth for this story.
I first knew Loth from her The Dragon Kings series. After signing for her newsletter, I got an ARC of Skye (The Dragon Kings #4) and really enjoyed the story. I have also read the fifth and the last book in the same series which is The Kings. Though I have not gotten to read the first three books in the said series, I was looking forward to more stories from the same author. Her stories are just so unique and engaging. The characters are so relatable and often represent real people in everyday lives. It is so easy to step into the shoes of her characters. This new series - God of the Sun is exactly the same. Those elements are still present but the story is very different.
This book took me to a different world. A world that only exists in the imagination. A world where the sun always shines throughout the day until midnight. Once the clock strikes 12, darkness sets in. A place where there is a voice in your head that keeps reminding you of what you should do and sometimes stops you from doing bad things or injuring other people. Sounds like the conscience, in this story they call it The Voice (not the popular search for singing talents). Appears like an ideal place to live, right? But after midnight, The Voice shuts down and you are left on your own. Safety is not guaranteed if you are caught outside of locked doors. There's no telling what the citizens of Sol will do.
Zwaantie, the heir to the thrown in Sol is not the typical princess. I like that the last thing she wants is to be a princess. She wants to be just normal. Not to be pressured to marry and rule their kingdom. She's not ready to marry yet and to be responsible for the lives of her people. She is smart and often does not follow what The Voice says. She often argues with The Voice. I can imagine her like Merida in the movie Brave. The strong-willed and hard-headed princess.
This story is about youth, of responsibilities, of going against the grain, of not conforming to people's expectations, of doing things out of love and to save the kingdom. A lot of people can relate to Zwaantie's character. Most of us don't want to be bound by family's expectations and of the society, of only wanting to march to our own drum. On the other hand, there's Prince Leo, from Stella. A place where there's only the moon, the twinkling stars and the night. A culture exactly opposite from Sol. A strange person and place that promises things and possibilities that Zwaantie wants dearly in life.
I was so taken by the story. I felt a kindred spirit in Zwaantie at the same time, I also felt a connection to Prince Leo. These two new characters are admirable in their own rights. They each have their own qualities that make them protagonists that you will surely root for to find what they seek and to succeed in all their endeavors. The setting alone, already had me reeled in. There is no mistaking that exciting things are about to happen. I am looking forward to the next book already.
I give the book 4/5 suns. My only concern was it took a while for Prince Leo and Zwaantie to meet. I was dying of anticipation and excitement of when these two would finally come face to face. Almost the whole time, the story was about Sol, Zwaantie and their kingdom. I started to wonder when will Prince Leo and the rest of Stella make an appearance. I give it to Loth to exactly know how to make her readers fall into the story helplessly. How she lured me and drew me in. How she showed a snippet of wonderful things to come and then appear like to have forgotten about that promise. Then, when you are sure to die of the waiting and anticipation, there it was. But wait, there's more. Just when things get so exciting and dangerous, she holds off. Ugh, deadly cliffhangers that will test your strength and patience. Slowly wilting and losing sleep waiting for the next book. I hope I don't die from the exhaustion of the prolonged anticipation before the next book comes out.
I will never get tired of reading Kimberly Loth's books. I think one or two more books and she will be added to my favorite authors' list.
Since when did honor trump everything including her own happiness?
- Kimberly Loth, God of the Sun -
I first knew Loth from her The Dragon Kings series. After signing for her newsletter, I got an ARC of Skye (The Dragon Kings #4) and really enjoyed the story. I have also read the fifth and the last book in the same series which is The Kings. Though I have not gotten to read the first three books in the said series, I was looking forward to more stories from the same author. Her stories are just so unique and engaging. The characters are so relatable and often represent real people in everyday lives. It is so easy to step into the shoes of her characters. This new series - God of the Sun is exactly the same. Those elements are still present but the story is very different.
This book took me to a different world. A world that only exists in the imagination. A world where the sun always shines throughout the day until midnight. Once the clock strikes 12, darkness sets in. A place where there is a voice in your head that keeps reminding you of what you should do and sometimes stops you from doing bad things or injuring other people. Sounds like the conscience, in this story they call it The Voice (not the popular search for singing talents). Appears like an ideal place to live, right? But after midnight, The Voice shuts down and you are left on your own. Safety is not guaranteed if you are caught outside of locked doors. There's no telling what the citizens of Sol will do.
Zwaantie, the heir to the thrown in Sol is not the typical princess. I like that the last thing she wants is to be a princess. She wants to be just normal. Not to be pressured to marry and rule their kingdom. She's not ready to marry yet and to be responsible for the lives of her people. She is smart and often does not follow what The Voice says. She often argues with The Voice. I can imagine her like Merida in the movie Brave. The strong-willed and hard-headed princess.
This story is about youth, of responsibilities, of going against the grain, of not conforming to people's expectations, of doing things out of love and to save the kingdom. A lot of people can relate to Zwaantie's character. Most of us don't want to be bound by family's expectations and of the society, of only wanting to march to our own drum. On the other hand, there's Prince Leo, from Stella. A place where there's only the moon, the twinkling stars and the night. A culture exactly opposite from Sol. A strange person and place that promises things and possibilities that Zwaantie wants dearly in life.
I was so taken by the story. I felt a kindred spirit in Zwaantie at the same time, I also felt a connection to Prince Leo. These two new characters are admirable in their own rights. They each have their own qualities that make them protagonists that you will surely root for to find what they seek and to succeed in all their endeavors. The setting alone, already had me reeled in. There is no mistaking that exciting things are about to happen. I am looking forward to the next book already.
I give the book 4/5 suns. My only concern was it took a while for Prince Leo and Zwaantie to meet. I was dying of anticipation and excitement of when these two would finally come face to face. Almost the whole time, the story was about Sol, Zwaantie and their kingdom. I started to wonder when will Prince Leo and the rest of Stella make an appearance. I give it to Loth to exactly know how to make her readers fall into the story helplessly. How she lured me and drew me in. How she showed a snippet of wonderful things to come and then appear like to have forgotten about that promise. Then, when you are sure to die of the waiting and anticipation, there it was. But wait, there's more. Just when things get so exciting and dangerous, she holds off. Ugh, deadly cliffhangers that will test your strength and patience. Slowly wilting and losing sleep waiting for the next book. I hope I don't die from the exhaustion of the prolonged anticipation before the next book comes out.
I will never get tired of reading Kimberly Loth's books. I think one or two more books and she will be added to my favorite authors' list.
Since when did honor trump everything including her own happiness?
- Kimberly Loth, God of the Sun -
August 26, 2017
A really intriguing read.
I wasn't expecting it to be so good. I'm intrigued with the story line. So much so, that I'm on to the next book! Great characters, storyline & plot twists! Would recommend to all readers.
I wasn't expecting it to be so good. I'm intrigued with the story line. So much so, that I'm on to the next book! Great characters, storyline & plot twists! Would recommend to all readers.
February 28, 2017
Intriguing take-off into a new series by Kimberly Loth.
Stella and Sol are two kingdoms of this world, one being covered by sunlight all the time, the other lingering in darkness. Triggered by the Old Mother’s prophecy, considered a legend among the citizens, the story slides into a chain of events that might change the world. To prevent children from Stella, and many others, from certain death, there must be a union between the two kingdoms – hence prince Leo comes with a marriage proposal to high Princess of Sol, Zwaantie.
I love the general concept of the book. Two absolutely different kingdoms, separated by mist wall, but also completely different in the matters of nature, culture, way of thinking and many other aspects. Although most of the story takes place in Sol, I found Stella no less interesting.
I was also quite drawn to the characters. Zwaantie is a teenager, rebel according to Sol customs, disobedient youth. She does not accept her fate passively but fights for her dreams and desires. She does not want to be pushed into marriage or being crowned a queen. Zwaantie follows her heart, endearing a slave and planning to run away with him. Leo is a lonely prince, his single status making him an outcast in his own family, with the only close friend being his sister Candace.
The most interesting character for me was the Voice. Complex, mysterious, and accelerating the whole story development by its actions.
The story went fast and developed smoothly, making the book a quick and addictive read. Magic flows freely across the pages, making this an enjoyable story. Looking forward to the next one!
Stella and Sol are two kingdoms of this world, one being covered by sunlight all the time, the other lingering in darkness. Triggered by the Old Mother’s prophecy, considered a legend among the citizens, the story slides into a chain of events that might change the world. To prevent children from Stella, and many others, from certain death, there must be a union between the two kingdoms – hence prince Leo comes with a marriage proposal to high Princess of Sol, Zwaantie.
I love the general concept of the book. Two absolutely different kingdoms, separated by mist wall, but also completely different in the matters of nature, culture, way of thinking and many other aspects. Although most of the story takes place in Sol, I found Stella no less interesting.
I was also quite drawn to the characters. Zwaantie is a teenager, rebel according to Sol customs, disobedient youth. She does not accept her fate passively but fights for her dreams and desires. She does not want to be pushed into marriage or being crowned a queen. Zwaantie follows her heart, endearing a slave and planning to run away with him. Leo is a lonely prince, his single status making him an outcast in his own family, with the only close friend being his sister Candace.
The most interesting character for me was the Voice. Complex, mysterious, and accelerating the whole story development by its actions.
The story went fast and developed smoothly, making the book a quick and addictive read. Magic flows freely across the pages, making this an enjoyable story. Looking forward to the next one!
December 14, 2017
Not my typical genre, but sometimes I pick something different/new.
The most I have enjoyed allegories which I found here. The rules, the Voice, these two different worlds: Sol and Stella spoke more about our real world than I thought at the beginning. I have much fun figuring this out. I am not sure how much Kimberly Loth did on purpose, how much there were done accidentally. Nonetheless, I liked them. (E.g. the Voice that doesn't allow you to do bad things, the way the Voice works, the whole slavery system.)
The love story (stories) seemed also inviting.
But I don't like that it has been spread over four books. It isn't that the pace of plot was slow (although it wasn't very lively/fast also), I just wanted the whole story/the end in one book. But I can understand that for the fans of the genre it isn't important.
I have gotten it for free on Amazon, some time ago. So, I don't regret I have read it. And although I would like to know what happened next between Zwaantie, Phoenix and Leo, but not enough to buy and read next books of series.
The most I have enjoyed allegories which I found here. The rules, the Voice, these two different worlds: Sol and Stella spoke more about our real world than I thought at the beginning. I have much fun figuring this out. I am not sure how much Kimberly Loth did on purpose, how much there were done accidentally. Nonetheless, I liked them. (E.g. the Voice that doesn't allow you to do bad things, the way the Voice works, the whole slavery system.)
The love story (stories) seemed also inviting.
But I don't like that it has been spread over four books. It isn't that the pace of plot was slow (although it wasn't very lively/fast also), I just wanted the whole story/the end in one book. But I can understand that for the fans of the genre it isn't important.
I have gotten it for free on Amazon, some time ago. So, I don't regret I have read it. And although I would like to know what happened next between Zwaantie, Phoenix and Leo, but not enough to buy and read next books of series.
February 15, 2017
Starting off with a prophecy uttered we learn that there are two kingdoms which are going to be involved in this story. Those two kingdoms are Stella and Sol. I feel there was to much time spent on Zwaantie and her unhappiness with what is to become of her life. But I also feel that this was to get us prepared for what may be in store for us in future books. At the start I did not trust the "Voice" and by the end I knew my non-trust was warranted. BUT still who is the "Voice". I definitely want to know what's going to happen next. I received a free copy of this book and volunteered to review it.
dnf-or-skimmed
March 30, 2019I skimmed through this book and the rest of the series and ultimately found that I didn't care for a lot of the choices the author made. For me, I feel like the relationship dilemmas would've taken away from my enjoyment and I don't want to commit to reading all four books if I feel like it's just going to be an experience I can't derive joy from.
Perhaps it's a lovely series but as a reader there are some things that just don't speak to me story-wise so, this one is a bust for me. I paid 99 cents for this so maybe at another point in time I might revisit, but as it stands, I just made a donation to the author of a few cents.
Perhaps it's a lovely series but as a reader there are some things that just don't speak to me story-wise so, this one is a bust for me. I paid 99 cents for this so maybe at another point in time I might revisit, but as it stands, I just made a donation to the author of a few cents.
July 19, 2017
Dialogue is very weak
While I liked the structure of the world, I found that a lot of the character interactions were weak. There were so many opportunities for the writer to present us with a strong dialogue but it almost read like a rough draft. I will continue reading the series in hopes it gets better and because I really liked the world, but I seriously cringed at most of the interactions between characters.
While I liked the structure of the world, I found that a lot of the character interactions were weak. There were so many opportunities for the writer to present us with a strong dialogue but it almost read like a rough draft. I will continue reading the series in hopes it gets better and because I really liked the world, but I seriously cringed at most of the interactions between characters.
July 31, 2017
I don't even want to continue reading this series bc the main girl is so stupid.. I just want to punch her in the face
August 16, 2022
Read it in one day. I was shocked to find out the voice was a person and not just a ethereal type being who “lived” in everyone’s head. Also the way book one ends has me begging to start book two!!! Will be buying and reading the series here soon!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2023
This ended in such a cliffhanger (but in a good way!)
It laid out a pretty solid foundation of Sol and everything wrong with their system (aka slaves and the Voice). And also how different it is compared to Stella which seems more lax and easygoing, so it’s gonna be very exciting to see Zwaantie adjusting to Stella when they arrive.
I dislike reading books with a love triangle because Phoenix is such a good guy and Leo just loves Zwaantie 😭 Can we please not break any of their hearts???
It laid out a pretty solid foundation of Sol and everything wrong with their system (aka slaves and the Voice). And also how different it is compared to Stella which seems more lax and easygoing, so it’s gonna be very exciting to see Zwaantie adjusting to Stella when they arrive.
I dislike reading books with a love triangle because Phoenix is such a good guy and Leo just loves Zwaantie 😭 Can we please not break any of their hearts???
February 27, 2020
I’ve finished the first book in the box set. Overall I’d give 3 out of 5 stars to the first book God of the Son. Interesting premise but does contain several instances of insta-love. A lot of the story elements seem disconnected like the author used every fantasy idea that came to her on a whim without blending them in an authentic way. I do like most of the characters and feel vested enough to keep going.
February 21, 2017
God of the Sun is the first book in a new series by Kimberly Loth. In God of the Sun we are introduced to a new world where we meet an array of new characters. In the beginning of the book we are introduced to one royal family who are preparing for the announcement of a baby that is on the way when a witch shows up and warns them that they must bring the kingdoms of Stella and Sol together before the coming child’s first birthday or else the baby will die and many more after that. Then the story immediately jumps to the other kingdom and we meet the high princess Zwaantie. Zwaantie wants to live the simple life and be a midwife but has heir to the thrown she must eventually marry and assume the role of queen but she feels that she is no good for the role because she balks at the rules. But the Voice is there to keep her and everyone else in the kingdom in check, most of the time. However, things become complicated when Zwaantie decides that instead of choosing to marry one of the lower princes she wants to marry her brother’s slave, Phoenix. But it is not allowed but she believes that she is in love with him and wants to be with him and will do just about anything to make it possible. So when Prince Leo comes from the neighboring kingdom and she learns what he can do she sets a plan in motion to accomplish.
God of the Sun is an engaging story that draws you in and has you turning the pages as it is filled with intrigue, danger, magic and a hint of romance. There is quite a bit going on as we witness the return of Zwaantie’s brother as he returns from his training/studying to take on the role of Head Chancellor and he will be the closest person to the Voice that “governs” them in its own way. Stella and Sol are neighboring kingdoms that are dependent on each other. One provides fresh foods for the other while the other provides medicines that the other needs because they cannot make them themselves. Zwaantie does not want to be queen one day. If she could abdicate the throne she would but it is impossible because her family believes that she was chosen by Sol and for her to choose another path would mean her death. But she feels that she is attracted to Phoenix, her brother’s slave, and wishes to be with him instead.
I really enjoyed this book but I really found Zwaantie to be a spoiled brat. Not in the sense of that she sits around and pouts if she doesn’t get her way about things but she is petulant and doesn’t really take into consideration the consequences of her actions or what it may mean for others. She sees Phoenix and Luna and she wishes that she didn’t have the responsibilities of being royalty. But yet and still she depends on her royalty in order to accomplish certain tasks that she would otherwise be totally inept in accomplishing, for example – requesting more medicine for her people when they are running dangerously low. I feel that she looks at Phoenix and thinks that because they grew up together and she knows him that she should have feelings for him. I feel that if she had genuinely been attracted to him that she would have been before he left and that it wouldn’t be that within days of him and her brother returning after being gone a few years that now she’s interested in him.
The mystery that is woven into this story really adds to it because Zwaantie’s life is in danger and you have to wonder why. More than one attempt is made and you see her begin to piece things together but she doesn’t stay completely focused on it as she becomes absorbed in her plan to get what it is that she wants. I really like the variety of the characters in this story and how each one adds to the storyline as a whole. There are definitely a few surprises which I love, one you get a hint of but when it’s revealed it’s done in a satisfying way.
I have to say all in all that the author has done a very good job in writing this story. There are no noticeable errors that distract you from the storyline. There are characters that you will be drawn to and ones that you will just honestly be annoyed with but it’s a story that when you finish will leave you wanting more and that’s how you know that you’ve got a good book. I can honestly say that I can’t wait for the next book in this series. With that being said I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a copy of this book for a voluntary review.
God of the Sun is an engaging story that draws you in and has you turning the pages as it is filled with intrigue, danger, magic and a hint of romance. There is quite a bit going on as we witness the return of Zwaantie’s brother as he returns from his training/studying to take on the role of Head Chancellor and he will be the closest person to the Voice that “governs” them in its own way. Stella and Sol are neighboring kingdoms that are dependent on each other. One provides fresh foods for the other while the other provides medicines that the other needs because they cannot make them themselves. Zwaantie does not want to be queen one day. If she could abdicate the throne she would but it is impossible because her family believes that she was chosen by Sol and for her to choose another path would mean her death. But she feels that she is attracted to Phoenix, her brother’s slave, and wishes to be with him instead.
I really enjoyed this book but I really found Zwaantie to be a spoiled brat. Not in the sense of that she sits around and pouts if she doesn’t get her way about things but she is petulant and doesn’t really take into consideration the consequences of her actions or what it may mean for others. She sees Phoenix and Luna and she wishes that she didn’t have the responsibilities of being royalty. But yet and still she depends on her royalty in order to accomplish certain tasks that she would otherwise be totally inept in accomplishing, for example – requesting more medicine for her people when they are running dangerously low. I feel that she looks at Phoenix and thinks that because they grew up together and she knows him that she should have feelings for him. I feel that if she had genuinely been attracted to him that she would have been before he left and that it wouldn’t be that within days of him and her brother returning after being gone a few years that now she’s interested in him.
The mystery that is woven into this story really adds to it because Zwaantie’s life is in danger and you have to wonder why. More than one attempt is made and you see her begin to piece things together but she doesn’t stay completely focused on it as she becomes absorbed in her plan to get what it is that she wants. I really like the variety of the characters in this story and how each one adds to the storyline as a whole. There are definitely a few surprises which I love, one you get a hint of but when it’s revealed it’s done in a satisfying way.
I have to say all in all that the author has done a very good job in writing this story. There are no noticeable errors that distract you from the storyline. There are characters that you will be drawn to and ones that you will just honestly be annoyed with but it’s a story that when you finish will leave you wanting more and that’s how you know that you’ve got a good book. I can honestly say that I can’t wait for the next book in this series. With that being said I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a copy of this book for a voluntary review.
February 13, 2022
This is a really difficult book to review. There were some brilliant concepts but the execution was patchy and poor in places. To start with the goods things, I really did like the worldbuilding. It was simple but effective and it pretty much held up the story. I also appreciated all of the characters - apart from the protagonist, Zwaantie. She was incredibly annoying, fussy, selfish and immature. Luna, Raaf, Phoenix and Leo were much better characters, and they did bring colour and life to Zwaantie's story. The relationship between Phoenix and Zwaatie however was probably the worst thing about this book. Not only did it happen ridiculously fast, it had no depth or justification, and given that the series is hinging on a love triangle, it needed to be done much much better.
Having said all of these things, I have to say that it is a book that makes you want to read on, even if only to see how Zwaantie is going to deal with the pathetic situation she has created for herself. The final chapter definitely redeemed elements of the story however, as it added a much needed complexity to the romance and love triangle. I have heard better things about the next book, and seeing as though each book is relatively short, I will give it a go!
Having said all of these things, I have to say that it is a book that makes you want to read on, even if only to see how Zwaantie is going to deal with the pathetic situation she has created for herself. The final chapter definitely redeemed elements of the story however, as it added a much needed complexity to the romance and love triangle. I have heard better things about the next book, and seeing as though each book is relatively short, I will give it a go!
February 22, 2017
Burned, Destiny, Starcrossed Lovers?
This is the first book in an incredible new world and journey that is absolutely epic! Well, so far it's only one person's side of the world and their journey, with a little bit of the other scattered here and there. Yes, it ends in a heart-stopping cliffhanger, that leaves you grasping for more, I don't know how this author keeps me on my toes, it's not an easy task as I can usually figure things out pretty quickly, but Kimberly Loth will have you thinking one thing and something from the left hits you and throws you into a wall where you can lose yourself completely! That's one thing that I love! I don't know how many books will be in this series, but I know that the second book is already up for preorder and there is a third, but I'm not sure, if this is just a trilogy or not...guess it depends on how the characters speak to the author?! If you look at the title and think it has anything to do with paranormal or anything other than the last word in the title, you'd basically be wrong. It's more of a spell/magic theme with kingdoms, but it doesn't give a timeline to say, if it's in the past or future and it really doesn't matter or hurt the story in any way. I would recommend this to male and females as it's very gender neutral, which is another thing I love about her books! This is definitely a must read and I would say use your own discretion for age groups as well. Now lets get to the world and who's journey we are in for this book, trying to not give any spoilers! This books is primarily based in the Kingdom of Sol and on High Princess Zwaantie. The Kingdom goes to her, since she is older than her brother. She will be Queen and rule with the husband of her choosing. Where she lives, everyone, including royalty takes on a job to help their Village. She's a midwife and would rather be, just a midwife, not royalty at all. She can marry whomever she wants, except for the one class, the lowest of her Village. You can figure out who she falls for, but is it just because she sees him as freedom? She doesn't want to be Queen, so is it an act of rebellion in a subconscious way? I think she truly loves him, but these are the questions that I ask myself. The Kingdom of Sol is sunny all of the time, so they can grow things and farm. Yet, her parents, especially her mother, is pressuring her to choose a husband. There are so many things that are happening, things she won't dare tell anyone about, not even her best friend, brother, etc. Then High Prince Leo from the Kingdom of Stella shows up. Their worlds can't be any different, if they tried! From the shoes on their feet, the food they eat, the way they run their Kingdom's and treat their people, and it's always day in Sol, but it's always night over in Stella. So the only relations these two Kingdoms have had in a couple centuries, is to trade. I will admit there are some hysterical scenes throughout the book, but Leo is hot and some of their light banter is really funny! However, she goes from dead set against getting engaged to him, to accepting. Why? Also, why didn't he question her about it? Both are holding back secrets, but what are they? How bad could they be? Could they be bad enough to start a war between the Kingdom of Sol and the Kingdom of Stella? As I said, this leaves you holding your breath and hoping that there are more pages to read, when there aren't any left! Good news, you don't have to wait too long for the next book to come out! Bad news, no matter how hard you keep swiping your Kindle, there's no pages left, so you do have to wait! So what happens to make me & probably you too, want to keep reading? Something big? Unexpected? I'm guessing the new world and new journey will be in the Kingdom of Stella and we will betaken on High Prince Leo's journey or maybe both? This is told in different POV's at times, but for the most part, it is High Prince Zwaantie's POV. Ii guess you will have to read to find out because I know that I can't wait to find out more!
This is the first book in an incredible new world and journey that is absolutely epic! Well, so far it's only one person's side of the world and their journey, with a little bit of the other scattered here and there. Yes, it ends in a heart-stopping cliffhanger, that leaves you grasping for more, I don't know how this author keeps me on my toes, it's not an easy task as I can usually figure things out pretty quickly, but Kimberly Loth will have you thinking one thing and something from the left hits you and throws you into a wall where you can lose yourself completely! That's one thing that I love! I don't know how many books will be in this series, but I know that the second book is already up for preorder and there is a third, but I'm not sure, if this is just a trilogy or not...guess it depends on how the characters speak to the author?! If you look at the title and think it has anything to do with paranormal or anything other than the last word in the title, you'd basically be wrong. It's more of a spell/magic theme with kingdoms, but it doesn't give a timeline to say, if it's in the past or future and it really doesn't matter or hurt the story in any way. I would recommend this to male and females as it's very gender neutral, which is another thing I love about her books! This is definitely a must read and I would say use your own discretion for age groups as well. Now lets get to the world and who's journey we are in for this book, trying to not give any spoilers! This books is primarily based in the Kingdom of Sol and on High Princess Zwaantie. The Kingdom goes to her, since she is older than her brother. She will be Queen and rule with the husband of her choosing. Where she lives, everyone, including royalty takes on a job to help their Village. She's a midwife and would rather be, just a midwife, not royalty at all. She can marry whomever she wants, except for the one class, the lowest of her Village. You can figure out who she falls for, but is it just because she sees him as freedom? She doesn't want to be Queen, so is it an act of rebellion in a subconscious way? I think she truly loves him, but these are the questions that I ask myself. The Kingdom of Sol is sunny all of the time, so they can grow things and farm. Yet, her parents, especially her mother, is pressuring her to choose a husband. There are so many things that are happening, things she won't dare tell anyone about, not even her best friend, brother, etc. Then High Prince Leo from the Kingdom of Stella shows up. Their worlds can't be any different, if they tried! From the shoes on their feet, the food they eat, the way they run their Kingdom's and treat their people, and it's always day in Sol, but it's always night over in Stella. So the only relations these two Kingdoms have had in a couple centuries, is to trade. I will admit there are some hysterical scenes throughout the book, but Leo is hot and some of their light banter is really funny! However, she goes from dead set against getting engaged to him, to accepting. Why? Also, why didn't he question her about it? Both are holding back secrets, but what are they? How bad could they be? Could they be bad enough to start a war between the Kingdom of Sol and the Kingdom of Stella? As I said, this leaves you holding your breath and hoping that there are more pages to read, when there aren't any left! Good news, you don't have to wait too long for the next book to come out! Bad news, no matter how hard you keep swiping your Kindle, there's no pages left, so you do have to wait! So what happens to make me & probably you too, want to keep reading? Something big? Unexpected? I'm guessing the new world and new journey will be in the Kingdom of Stella and we will betaken on High Prince Leo's journey or maybe both? This is told in different POV's at times, but for the most part, it is High Prince Zwaantie's POV. Ii guess you will have to read to find out because I know that I can't wait to find out more!
March 11, 2017
I completely and utterly adore this author’s work and the more i read the more i love it even more! She is extremely talented and lures you into her books from the first page, you fall into the different worlds that she has created and live the experience with them and for me, that is what makes a brilliant author.
I loved the storyline in this and was blown away by how it ended, i wanted to scream when it finished and i am dying to find out what happens next!!! The region that this story is built in is very old fashioned with how the people live and the slaves that live there, throughout the book you her differences about another region that seems a lot more modern and i like that as you see the differences with the way people from different parts of the land live. The concept of the voice really intrigued me but i won't say ny more on that, readers will need to read the book to find out.
I really felt for Zwaantie in this book. All she wants is to be normal, to be a midwife and marry for love however being a royal this is most definitely not hr fate. You can see throughout the book that she struggles with what is expected of her and what her heart yearns for. You can tell she is quite young by some of the decisions that she makes but she has the potential to be an amazing Queen. I loved both Leo and Phoenix, Phoenix has a restrained passion that you see small glimpses of, being a guard he is very protective in nature and he always tries to do what he thinks is best. Leo has lived a completely different life, at first he comes across as arrogant but the more the book goes on you start to see who he really is. He is honourable and always wants the best for those that cares about, especially his family. He struggles with the way things are away from his land and doesn't understand why they live the way that they do. You can see that he is a really good man.
I can't recommend this book highly enough and would give it more than 5*
I loved the storyline in this and was blown away by how it ended, i wanted to scream when it finished and i am dying to find out what happens next!!! The region that this story is built in is very old fashioned with how the people live and the slaves that live there, throughout the book you her differences about another region that seems a lot more modern and i like that as you see the differences with the way people from different parts of the land live. The concept of the voice really intrigued me but i won't say ny more on that, readers will need to read the book to find out.
I really felt for Zwaantie in this book. All she wants is to be normal, to be a midwife and marry for love however being a royal this is most definitely not hr fate. You can see throughout the book that she struggles with what is expected of her and what her heart yearns for. You can tell she is quite young by some of the decisions that she makes but she has the potential to be an amazing Queen. I loved both Leo and Phoenix, Phoenix has a restrained passion that you see small glimpses of, being a guard he is very protective in nature and he always tries to do what he thinks is best. Leo has lived a completely different life, at first he comes across as arrogant but the more the book goes on you start to see who he really is. He is honourable and always wants the best for those that cares about, especially his family. He struggles with the way things are away from his land and doesn't understand why they live the way that they do. You can see that he is a really good man.
I can't recommend this book highly enough and would give it more than 5*
July 22, 2017
Ok wow!!!!!!
I quickly became hooked to this story and the people.
Zwaantie is princess of Sol and next to be Queen, but has to find a husband. Not happy about this she does what she can to show she is not ready. Hahaha she is a character that you can't help but love and feel for. She maybe a princess but she isn't free. Things then get complicated and she does what she has to do for the people she loves.
Leo is the Prince of Stella and is on a mission to marry Zwaantie and bring both kingdoms together. But he doesn't like alot of the rules in Sol and is different to what they are use to. Still all he wants is to win the princess. He is such a loveable guy and not up himself as other princes. What he is willing to do for what's right? LOVE HIM!!!
So much happening with these people, I can understand why this is only part 1. I already feel like I am addicted to what will happen and can't quite decide how I feel about alot of it. But I do know I can't wait to read the 2nd book to see.
I quickly became hooked to this story and the people.
Zwaantie is princess of Sol and next to be Queen, but has to find a husband. Not happy about this she does what she can to show she is not ready. Hahaha she is a character that you can't help but love and feel for. She maybe a princess but she isn't free. Things then get complicated and she does what she has to do for the people she loves.
Leo is the Prince of Stella and is on a mission to marry Zwaantie and bring both kingdoms together. But he doesn't like alot of the rules in Sol and is different to what they are use to. Still all he wants is to win the princess. He is such a loveable guy and not up himself as other princes. What he is willing to do for what's right? LOVE HIM!!!
So much happening with these people, I can understand why this is only part 1. I already feel like I am addicted to what will happen and can't quite decide how I feel about alot of it. But I do know I can't wait to read the 2nd book to see.
May 4, 2017
God Of The Sun – Book 1
I discovered this author through her Dragon Kings series. Since I enjoyed that series so much, I was waiting to see what her newest series would be like. Just part way into the book, I couldn’t put it down. I am hooked on this new series already.
Set in a similar but alternate universe, there was plenty of action in the story. I’m not sure why so many alternate universe/worlds stories are set up in medieval-like times. This world sort of is, sort of isn’t – it’s definitely not like any other medieval world I’ve read. One part of this world has sunlight (including a dim light all night long) and no magic; the other has no sunlight (but stars!) and magic flows easily in their veins. Each side believes themselves superior to the other side, but they will have to unite according to a prophesy near the beginning of the story.
Suspend disbelief and pay attention to the actions and thoughts in this one. I may have to read this one again to find even more layers than I was able to discern the first time through. And I’m already wanting the next installment. Thank goodness the schedule stated in the back of the book for the next 3 stories in the series is a quick one!
I discovered this author through her Dragon Kings series. Since I enjoyed that series so much, I was waiting to see what her newest series would be like. Just part way into the book, I couldn’t put it down. I am hooked on this new series already.
Set in a similar but alternate universe, there was plenty of action in the story. I’m not sure why so many alternate universe/worlds stories are set up in medieval-like times. This world sort of is, sort of isn’t – it’s definitely not like any other medieval world I’ve read. One part of this world has sunlight (including a dim light all night long) and no magic; the other has no sunlight (but stars!) and magic flows easily in their veins. Each side believes themselves superior to the other side, but they will have to unite according to a prophesy near the beginning of the story.
Suspend disbelief and pay attention to the actions and thoughts in this one. I may have to read this one again to find even more layers than I was able to discern the first time through. And I’m already wanting the next installment. Thank goodness the schedule stated in the back of the book for the next 3 stories in the series is a quick one!
October 28, 2017
2.5 stars
For me there are two types of insta-love.
The type where the guy and the girl meet and feel an instant connection and start having feelings for each other really fast and all that. Like, recognizing the other half of your soul. If done right, insta-love can be beautiful and sweet.
In this book however, we find the other type. As is usual for teenagers, they see a hot guy/girl and after two or three days they declare their eternal love for each other. This is what most people hate, and personally so do I.
This book was intriguing. The hole concept was original and awesome but the main character ruined it for me.
She was whiny, spoilt, selfish, immature (even though she was 17) and I can honestly say that if she had died at any point in the book I wouldn't have cared. Maybe she will change in the next books but I don't think I'll read the next one.
Oh, and let's not forget the freaking love triangle which, in my opinion, was (as is the case with all love triangles) unnecessary and stupid.
But, if you want a book about an interesting and new world, you should give it a try.
For me there are two types of insta-love.
The type where the guy and the girl meet and feel an instant connection and start having feelings for each other really fast and all that. Like, recognizing the other half of your soul. If done right, insta-love can be beautiful and sweet.
In this book however, we find the other type. As is usual for teenagers, they see a hot guy/girl and after two or three days they declare their eternal love for each other. This is what most people hate, and personally so do I.
This book was intriguing. The hole concept was original and awesome but the main character ruined it for me.
She was whiny, spoilt, selfish, immature (even though she was 17) and I can honestly say that if she had died at any point in the book I wouldn't have cared. Maybe she will change in the next books but I don't think I'll read the next one.
Oh, and let's not forget the freaking love triangle which, in my opinion, was (as is the case with all love triangles) unnecessary and stupid.
But, if you want a book about an interesting and new world, you should give it a try.
March 2, 2017
As the first book in a new series it was a bit slow to get going while the groundwork was being laid. It's the story of two "worlds" divided by a wall and with their own unique environments, challenges, and very different approaches to life. The story follows the Crown Princess of Sol, a world ruled by a seemingly all-powerful Voice that keeps citizens behaved. She's absolutely required to choose a husband right now but she has no interest in the options presented to her. This isn't aided by the fact she's falling for one of the slaves.
Things begin to build rapidly though, story wise, when a prince from the neighbouring "world" of Stella comes seeking her hand in marriage. He has his own motives for doing so and they're very understandable. From here on out the story takes a somewhat dark turn as we are faced with the idea of whether what you've grown up believing is in fact the truth. It has a lot of really great moments in the second half that would not have been possible without the groundwork laid earlier on and I'm definitely anxious to see where the series goes/
Things begin to build rapidly though, story wise, when a prince from the neighbouring "world" of Stella comes seeking her hand in marriage. He has his own motives for doing so and they're very understandable. From here on out the story takes a somewhat dark turn as we are faced with the idea of whether what you've grown up believing is in fact the truth. It has a lot of really great moments in the second half that would not have been possible without the groundwork laid earlier on and I'm definitely anxious to see where the series goes/
June 26, 2017
Another great read from Loth. Zwaantie doesn't want to be the queen, and she lives in a place where there is no dark. Sol, the so-called-kingdom-of-light, is ruled by the Voice, using royalty as a kind of facade for its own motives. Stella, a place where the sun never rises, cannot grow there own food, and I has no Voice to tell them what to do. Throw in two handsome guys, a mother with anger issues, and hidden motives behind every corner, and you have an intense story that will leave you wanting more.
What I liked: This book wasn't just about the love triangle. Something bigger and more captivating is going on.
What I didn't like: Toward the end, I got a little tired of Zwaantie trying to convince herself that she only loved one boy.
4 out of 5 stars for surpassing an ordinary love story.
What I liked: This book wasn't just about the love triangle. Something bigger and more captivating is going on.
What I didn't like: Toward the end, I got a little tired of Zwaantie trying to convince herself that she only loved one boy.
4 out of 5 stars for surpassing an ordinary love story.
February 22, 2017
I loved reading this book. It's so different and twisted its wonderful. Zwaantie is amazing for not wanting to just play along like everyone just expects her to because that's what's done (what a load of crap). I love when someone decides that they are going to be the person they want to be even if it goes against what everyone expects of them. This is an awesome book and such a lovely read. I'm really interested in where its all going and whats really going on with in this world. I hope that the further this series goes the more it explains all about the history and how everything came to be the way it is. Great book and I hope everyone else who gives it a shot loves it as much as I did.
February 22, 2017
Wow! The creativity it took to create Sol and Stella is off the charts! This spell binding tale of Zwantee and her growing pains and rebellious nature took me by surprise! I am totally enraptured by these amazing characters and now that I have reached the end of this book I realize how conflicted I am as to how I imagined this would turn out. That right there is a sure sign of an amazing read! It goes without saying that I am patiently waging for the next installment, Prince of the Moon. Looking forward to discovering more of this journey. This voluntary review is based against an advance copy.
May 6, 2017
An interesting start to a series of books set in a world of two halves - Sol, where it's always light, and Stella, where it's always dark. The book is excellently written, with great characters and action that jumps off the page and comes to life in your mind like a movie. You really feel for their plights, cheer for their happiness (eg Luna's wedding), and commiserate when things don't go their way. And the ending? Uh, talk about a cliffhanger!! I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes something a bit different, and can't wait to read the rest of the series!
November 14, 2017
As heir to the throne of Sol, Zwaantie has a lot of pressure on her shoulders. Zwaantie originally believed that when she stepped into her role as queen, she’d be able to change things in her kingdom. Unfortunately, the more she learned, the more she realized that there was so much out of her control. She had no desire for that kind of responsibility. Not only that, but as queen, she would have to marry, but her
As a child in the kingdom of Sol, where it never got dark, the neighboring kingdom of Stella, where the sun never shone, had always been a mystery.
Over in Stella, the Old Mother has arrived, someone who has been said to give horrible prophecies that required someone to make a great sacrifice. Pointing to Leo’s beloved sister Candace, who was pregnant with her son at the time, the Old Mother said, “The vipers grow restless. They long for the blood you deny, and they are changing. If the kingdoms of Stella and Sol are not joined by that child’s first birthday, then he will die. And he will not be the last. The union must be strong. You must prove to the earth that Stella and Sol will be forever joined.” Even though this scene occurs at the beginning of the novel, the prophecy plays an important role in the fate of Stella and Sol. Now, High Prince Leo is on a mission to marry Zwaantie and bring the kingdoms together.
Their worlds couldn’t be more different. From the shoes on their feet, the food they eat, to the way they run their Kingdom's and treat their people, and it's always daytime in Sol, but it's always night over in Stella. So the only relations these two Kingdoms have had in a couple centuries, is to trade.
I really felt for Zwaantie in this book. All she wants is to be normal, to be a midwife and marry for love, however, being a royal this is most definitely not her fate. You can see throughout the book that she struggles with what is expected of her and what her heart yearns for.
Another very intriguing character is the ‘Voice’. He is present in everyone’s mind all day until midnight, telling you what you can and cannot do and can even cause you pain in order to create discipline. Throughout the novel, you can really see Zwaantie grow as a character, she begins to realize that her little world in Sol isn’t so perfect.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I was slightly disappointed by the romance aspect of the plot. I felt like Zwaantjes situation was very generic since she was destined to marry a prince, but of course, she finds herself in love with someone on the polar opposite end of the social hierarchy, a slave. This whole concept of a ‘forbidden love’ is fine, but I was hoping for something a bit more unique, as I have read books with a similar plot. Despite this, I definitely would encourage others that enjoy science fiction/ romance to read this book, and I am excited to read the rest of the series.
As a child in the kingdom of Sol, where it never got dark, the neighboring kingdom of Stella, where the sun never shone, had always been a mystery.
Over in Stella, the Old Mother has arrived, someone who has been said to give horrible prophecies that required someone to make a great sacrifice. Pointing to Leo’s beloved sister Candace, who was pregnant with her son at the time, the Old Mother said, “The vipers grow restless. They long for the blood you deny, and they are changing. If the kingdoms of Stella and Sol are not joined by that child’s first birthday, then he will die. And he will not be the last. The union must be strong. You must prove to the earth that Stella and Sol will be forever joined.” Even though this scene occurs at the beginning of the novel, the prophecy plays an important role in the fate of Stella and Sol. Now, High Prince Leo is on a mission to marry Zwaantie and bring the kingdoms together.
Their worlds couldn’t be more different. From the shoes on their feet, the food they eat, to the way they run their Kingdom's and treat their people, and it's always daytime in Sol, but it's always night over in Stella. So the only relations these two Kingdoms have had in a couple centuries, is to trade.
I really felt for Zwaantie in this book. All she wants is to be normal, to be a midwife and marry for love, however, being a royal this is most definitely not her fate. You can see throughout the book that she struggles with what is expected of her and what her heart yearns for.
Another very intriguing character is the ‘Voice’. He is present in everyone’s mind all day until midnight, telling you what you can and cannot do and can even cause you pain in order to create discipline. Throughout the novel, you can really see Zwaantie grow as a character, she begins to realize that her little world in Sol isn’t so perfect.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I was slightly disappointed by the romance aspect of the plot. I felt like Zwaantjes situation was very generic since she was destined to marry a prince, but of course, she finds herself in love with someone on the polar opposite end of the social hierarchy, a slave. This whole concept of a ‘forbidden love’ is fine, but I was hoping for something a bit more unique, as I have read books with a similar plot. Despite this, I definitely would encourage others that enjoy science fiction/ romance to read this book, and I am excited to read the rest of the series.
August 18, 2018
Not going to lie at around 50% mark of the book, I started to wonder when something even remotely exciting was going to happen. I literally stopped and went to Amazon and Goodread reviews to decide if I was going to continue to read this book. I am very hesitant to DNF a book especially one that I have already invested 50% into reading and I honestly I really like the author after already reading 2 of her other series. Needless to say I continued on and made it to the end. And I give it about 2 stars with the hope the next book will be better.
I don’t like the “Voice” in this book at all. The concept of something in your head telling you what you should and shouldn’t do it annoying and humans already have a conscience why should there be another that doesn’t belong?
The main character was very hypocritical and to be honest selfish in a annoying way. She is suppose to be queen and has not even tried to learn what it means to be that way and only thinks about being with a slave at all costs. I’m all for love but there has to be more to the story then a love sick queen who doesn’t even understand what it means to be queen. I feel like the author should have at least made her care about the well being of her people or have at least a little insight into what goes on but nope. She wants the slaves to be able to do more when she becomes to queen than what they are allowed to do but then tells the foreign prince they must have slaves. She loves the Mages when they come to town and always buys stuff but then rats them out to her parents and council when she has no clue what she is even telling on them about. And let’s not forget how someone tries to kill her with a sword to the neck and then rescued by her brothers servant ( who is also the man she loves) and he’s just like you ok? Umm yeah sure she is great.
The foreign prince from Stella doesn’t show up until around 67% of the book and honestly he should have showed up way earlier like this is the only interesting thing that has happened in the book and it took FOREVER! She doesn’t love him or even seem to like him much though she agrees to the marriage only to save Phoenix (her love ).
At the end they then leave to go back to Stella through a wall of mist that can steal your memories or just take one if you use some kind of pole to cross. (??? I know so dumb) to be honest I hope the memory she loses is her love for Phoenix considering their love is so boring and I seriously want to avoid this stupid love triangle that is lacking any series emotion whatsoever. The only reason I will be reading book 2 is because I have loved the last 2 series by this author and am hoping the main character will have more to deal with than her extremely dull love life.
This is the worst review I’ve written and honestly it makes me sad because I really like the author. Book 2 please don’t let me down.
I don’t like the “Voice” in this book at all. The concept of something in your head telling you what you should and shouldn’t do it annoying and humans already have a conscience why should there be another that doesn’t belong?
The main character was very hypocritical and to be honest selfish in a annoying way. She is suppose to be queen and has not even tried to learn what it means to be that way and only thinks about being with a slave at all costs. I’m all for love but there has to be more to the story then a love sick queen who doesn’t even understand what it means to be queen. I feel like the author should have at least made her care about the well being of her people or have at least a little insight into what goes on but nope. She wants the slaves to be able to do more when she becomes to queen than what they are allowed to do but then tells the foreign prince they must have slaves. She loves the Mages when they come to town and always buys stuff but then rats them out to her parents and council when she has no clue what she is even telling on them about. And let’s not forget how someone tries to kill her with a sword to the neck and then rescued by her brothers servant ( who is also the man she loves) and he’s just like you ok? Umm yeah sure she is great.
The foreign prince from Stella doesn’t show up until around 67% of the book and honestly he should have showed up way earlier like this is the only interesting thing that has happened in the book and it took FOREVER! She doesn’t love him or even seem to like him much though she agrees to the marriage only to save Phoenix (her love ).
At the end they then leave to go back to Stella through a wall of mist that can steal your memories or just take one if you use some kind of pole to cross. (??? I know so dumb) to be honest I hope the memory she loses is her love for Phoenix considering their love is so boring and I seriously want to avoid this stupid love triangle that is lacking any series emotion whatsoever. The only reason I will be reading book 2 is because I have loved the last 2 series by this author and am hoping the main character will have more to deal with than her extremely dull love life.
This is the worst review I’ve written and honestly it makes me sad because I really like the author. Book 2 please don’t let me down.
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