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The Western Lands and All That Really Matters #2
The Star of Whatever
No one returns when they fall into the fog. Can she break its lethal haze and return to save her friend from death row?
For some reason, Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III doesn’t seem to be dead. Having rescued her fraternal twin sister from a terrible fate, she’s keen to discover why the killer Purple Haze didn’t turn them both into corpses. But when she persuades her sibling to venture deeper into the dangerous mist, she’s stunned to uncover the true cause of the skeleton-littered land.
With familial clues leading back to the casting of the two-centuries-old treacherous spell, Eloise is determined to use her bloodline to destroy the evil trap. But with an old friend awaiting execution by fogging, she’ll need more than her weak magic to defeat a power-hungry puppet master pulling strings from the shadows.
Can the young royal neutralize the devastating hex before her friends join the never-ending pile of bones?
The Star of Whatever is the wildly adventurous second book in The Western Lands and All That Really Matters humorous fantasy series. If you like clever characters, subversive jokes, and spectacular exploits, then you’ll love Andrew Einspruch’s vibrant step beyond the veil.
Buy The Star of Whatever to unleash an age-old power today!
For some reason, Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III doesn’t seem to be dead. Having rescued her fraternal twin sister from a terrible fate, she’s keen to discover why the killer Purple Haze didn’t turn them both into corpses. But when she persuades her sibling to venture deeper into the dangerous mist, she’s stunned to uncover the true cause of the skeleton-littered land.
With familial clues leading back to the casting of the two-centuries-old treacherous spell, Eloise is determined to use her bloodline to destroy the evil trap. But with an old friend awaiting execution by fogging, she’ll need more than her weak magic to defeat a power-hungry puppet master pulling strings from the shadows.
Can the young royal neutralize the devastating hex before her friends join the never-ending pile of bones?
The Star of Whatever is the wildly adventurous second book in The Western Lands and All That Really Matters humorous fantasy series. If you like clever characters, subversive jokes, and spectacular exploits, then you’ll love Andrew Einspruch’s vibrant step beyond the veil.
Buy The Star of Whatever to unleash an age-old power today!
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2022
7 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Einspruch
100 books146 followersGet a free novella, The Wombanditos
Get your free copy of The Wombanditos, a prequel to the Western Lands and All That Really Matters series. Click here: http://BookHip.com/FLNZSB
About Andrew Einspruch
Andrew is the award-winning author of the humorous fantasy series The Western Lands and All That Really Matters, as well as more than 120 books for primary-aged readers, both fiction and non-fiction. First published in the 1990s, Andrew's work has covered everything from basketball to DNA, from biographies to histories to mysteries, from outback heroes to Christmas Island red crabs, and from how the rides work at amusement parks to how the Australian Government works (that, perhaps the greatest mystery of all).
Andrew is an ex-pat Texan living in Australia, and is the co-founder of the not-for-profit charity the Billie Dean Deep Peace Trust (http://deeppeacetrust.com), which fosters deep peace for all species.
If pressed, he'll deny he ever programmed in COBOL for a bank.
Please visit http://andreweinspruch.com and say “howdy.”
Get your free copy of The Wombanditos, a prequel to the Western Lands and All That Really Matters series. Click here: http://BookHip.com/FLNZSB
About Andrew Einspruch
Andrew is the award-winning author of the humorous fantasy series The Western Lands and All That Really Matters, as well as more than 120 books for primary-aged readers, both fiction and non-fiction. First published in the 1990s, Andrew's work has covered everything from basketball to DNA, from biographies to histories to mysteries, from outback heroes to Christmas Island red crabs, and from how the rides work at amusement parks to how the Australian Government works (that, perhaps the greatest mystery of all).
Andrew is an ex-pat Texan living in Australia, and is the co-founder of the not-for-profit charity the Billie Dean Deep Peace Trust (http://deeppeacetrust.com), which fosters deep peace for all species.
If pressed, he'll deny he ever programmed in COBOL for a bank.
Please visit http://andreweinspruch.com and say “howdy.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 19, 2021
My thanks to the author Andrew Einspruch for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I will say that this certainly worked better for than book 1. I found in regard to plot and pacing that it punchier and it really got a move on. One of my complaints for book 1 was that a lot of the book was focussed on travelling that ultimately didn’t end being meaningful to the plot. There was a lot less meandering and travelling aimlessly here and it all felt much more purposeful, so I was glad of that. It’s not that I hate travelling in fantasy, not at all, but there’s a point to where it becomes a little too much.
This book is split into a multitude of POVs, certainly way more than book as it switches between various locations and characters before it all comes together at the end. It certainly is a different approach compared to book 1, but I do think I enjoyed it more as it gave a chance for the author to better showcase all of his characters and making them more meaningful and interesting as individual characters in the story. Each character voice is fairly strong and distinct, and I like that. There aren’t the strongest characters that I’ve read but I think that for this sort of absurdist YA fantasy, they definitely work well.
The world here, and especially exploring the Purple Haze which actually quite good and incredibly interesting. I really enjoyed spending in the Purple Haze as the way the author built it up was fascinating especially towards the beginning which gave it quite a creepy feel to it. It certainly lost some of its mysteriousness as time went on and as I became more familiar with the setting, but I did like at how the author did manage to really make it feel fairly original and at I liked at how he executed it. The rest of the worldbuilding was solid at and it’s always interesting when other creatures or species, like animals in this case are involved with the rest.
It does feel quite absurdist, especially at how it is written with all the jokes and whacky language, which as I’ve said is not precisely my thing. It doesn’t mean that I don’t enjoy it, I certainly enjoyed this novel enough and I did like some of the humour utilised here. It was fun and light and while all the speech that look in the vein of tthhīíįîśš was both annoying and amusing at the same time, I got through it just fine. I think imagine that it would be quite strange to write like that, but I’m hardly one to judge. I actually don’t have any serious qualms with the writing or anything, I think for the story it is trying to tell, that it works perfectly fine. To put it simply, it worked, it flows reasonably well, and, in any case, I was much more focussed on the story instead of the prose.
It was interesting watching the character development. There wasn’t a huge, huge amount of it, but considering the branching of the number of POV, I do think the amounts that we did were fine, and there were many substantial moments for the characters.
I found the endings of this to be ok. It certainly tried to be dramatic, but it did resolve in a way similar to what I expected, and it was done in a way that didn’t feel the most serious, which made sense considering the book.
Overall, I enjoyed this, and certainly more so than book 1 so that was good and it was interesting at the direction the author took this novel in. 7.5/10
I will say that this certainly worked better for than book 1. I found in regard to plot and pacing that it punchier and it really got a move on. One of my complaints for book 1 was that a lot of the book was focussed on travelling that ultimately didn’t end being meaningful to the plot. There was a lot less meandering and travelling aimlessly here and it all felt much more purposeful, so I was glad of that. It’s not that I hate travelling in fantasy, not at all, but there’s a point to where it becomes a little too much.
This book is split into a multitude of POVs, certainly way more than book as it switches between various locations and characters before it all comes together at the end. It certainly is a different approach compared to book 1, but I do think I enjoyed it more as it gave a chance for the author to better showcase all of his characters and making them more meaningful and interesting as individual characters in the story. Each character voice is fairly strong and distinct, and I like that. There aren’t the strongest characters that I’ve read but I think that for this sort of absurdist YA fantasy, they definitely work well.
The world here, and especially exploring the Purple Haze which actually quite good and incredibly interesting. I really enjoyed spending in the Purple Haze as the way the author built it up was fascinating especially towards the beginning which gave it quite a creepy feel to it. It certainly lost some of its mysteriousness as time went on and as I became more familiar with the setting, but I did like at how the author did manage to really make it feel fairly original and at I liked at how he executed it. The rest of the worldbuilding was solid at and it’s always interesting when other creatures or species, like animals in this case are involved with the rest.
It does feel quite absurdist, especially at how it is written with all the jokes and whacky language, which as I’ve said is not precisely my thing. It doesn’t mean that I don’t enjoy it, I certainly enjoyed this novel enough and I did like some of the humour utilised here. It was fun and light and while all the speech that look in the vein of tthhīíįîśš was both annoying and amusing at the same time, I got through it just fine. I think imagine that it would be quite strange to write like that, but I’m hardly one to judge. I actually don’t have any serious qualms with the writing or anything, I think for the story it is trying to tell, that it works perfectly fine. To put it simply, it worked, it flows reasonably well, and, in any case, I was much more focussed on the story instead of the prose.
It was interesting watching the character development. There wasn’t a huge, huge amount of it, but considering the branching of the number of POV, I do think the amounts that we did were fine, and there were many substantial moments for the characters.
I found the endings of this to be ok. It certainly tried to be dramatic, but it did resolve in a way similar to what I expected, and it was done in a way that didn’t feel the most serious, which made sense considering the book.
Overall, I enjoyed this, and certainly more so than book 1 so that was good and it was interesting at the direction the author took this novel in. 7.5/10
March 24, 2024
I received a copy of this book for a review! Frist off I will say that I enjoyed this one more then the first book! The characters for the most part are still themselves, Jerome's still a little much but Johanna grew less whiny and annoying which was nice, hoping we get a little more from Lorch in the next book. Not much to say about the story without given too much away but some questions I had from book one were answered. All around still a funny silly easy read!
October 3, 2023
This book is very interesting from the start. I would say I liked it more than the first book.
I am in love with all the characters.This book follows the first one where Eloise and Johanna are trying to release their companions from the dungeons in the half kingdom.This book everything is intense and full of humour.
This book portrays the adventures , relationships, politics in the family very well.The part i love is the Chosen family,sometimes blood is not everything family should be.
Overall it was a good book, can’t wait to read the next one.Onto it right after.
Thankyou Mr Einspruch and Booktasters for giving me the copy of the book.
I am in love with all the characters.This book follows the first one where Eloise and Johanna are trying to release their companions from the dungeons in the half kingdom.This book everything is intense and full of humour.
This book portrays the adventures , relationships, politics in the family very well.The part i love is the Chosen family,sometimes blood is not everything family should be.
Overall it was a good book, can’t wait to read the next one.Onto it right after.
Thankyou Mr Einspruch and Booktasters for giving me the copy of the book.
February 20, 2021
If you immersed yourself into the world of Alice in Through the Looking Glass, with some The Chronicles of Narnia vibes, combined with The Wizard of Oz magical elements, and upgrade it into a new level of humorous adventure, you will have to feel The Star of Whatever!
This book is the second works in The Western Lands and All That Really Matters series by Andrew Einspruch. This time Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III (I love her name!) the ruler of The Western Lands and All That Really Matters kingdom, Jerome, and her loyal guard embark on a journey to saves her twin sister who goes missing again. Once again they faced many things during their mission.
I always chuckled when I read the names of the characters and places. Just look at Eloise's full name! I love how Andrew uses the pun and playing with words cleverly. It never fails to amuse me and I always laugh at it. If compared to the previous book in the same series, the emotional parts emerge and ride the emotions of readers. Somehow, it makes the story have more drama. One of the examples is when Hector looks for the royal siblings and thought that they had died.
Besides, I admire Eloise's personality traits. She is funny, kind, and thoughtful to others. Her oddball characters always make me wonder what actually she thinking but it is an interesting part to me whenever she appears in the story. Since she is the future ruler and heir to The Western Lands Kingdom, she is an independent and resourceful person. Sometimes she is a little bit clumsy but she knows how to handle it. And don't forget her OCD tendencies, but this time she can manage it very well.
To summarise it, this second work is fantastic with some emotional parts that this story more alive. Sometimes, in several chapters, there are so many characters that appear and it somehow confusing. But the author explains each of them and how they are related to the story. Anyway, another 5 stars from me. Read it by yourself and get ready to enters the magical realms of The Western Lands and All That Really Matters!
This book is the second works in The Western Lands and All That Really Matters series by Andrew Einspruch. This time Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III (I love her name!) the ruler of The Western Lands and All That Really Matters kingdom, Jerome, and her loyal guard embark on a journey to saves her twin sister who goes missing again. Once again they faced many things during their mission.
I always chuckled when I read the names of the characters and places. Just look at Eloise's full name! I love how Andrew uses the pun and playing with words cleverly. It never fails to amuse me and I always laugh at it. If compared to the previous book in the same series, the emotional parts emerge and ride the emotions of readers. Somehow, it makes the story have more drama. One of the examples is when Hector looks for the royal siblings and thought that they had died.
Besides, I admire Eloise's personality traits. She is funny, kind, and thoughtful to others. Her oddball characters always make me wonder what actually she thinking but it is an interesting part to me whenever she appears in the story. Since she is the future ruler and heir to The Western Lands Kingdom, she is an independent and resourceful person. Sometimes she is a little bit clumsy but she knows how to handle it. And don't forget her OCD tendencies, but this time she can manage it very well.
To summarise it, this second work is fantastic with some emotional parts that this story more alive. Sometimes, in several chapters, there are so many characters that appear and it somehow confusing. But the author explains each of them and how they are related to the story. Anyway, another 5 stars from me. Read it by yourself and get ready to enters the magical realms of The Western Lands and All That Really Matters!
August 18, 2023
First and foremost, I would like to thank the Author for sharing their book with me for an honest review.
Now, I am officially in love with each character. Never a dull moment when I am reading this series. It's quirky, funny, lighthearted, and it tackles simple basic acts of kindness many of which we don't even think about.
I am glad to have this book on my stash. I mostly read dark books and this book series has kept me in the best of spirits whenever the dark read drained me.
Love it and recommended to those who just want to read and relax.
Now, I am officially in love with each character. Never a dull moment when I am reading this series. It's quirky, funny, lighthearted, and it tackles simple basic acts of kindness many of which we don't even think about.
I am glad to have this book on my stash. I mostly read dark books and this book series has kept me in the best of spirits whenever the dark read drained me.
Love it and recommended to those who just want to read and relax.
August 2, 2021
A great sequel in this series. I love the characters and a fantastic storyline. I was on the edge of my seat to find out if the princess saves her friend. It was sad to see that the puppeteer was controlling her friend. I love the adventure of this story and it was a great book.
April 30, 2020
Read my full review here: https://lifesanovelty.blogspot.com/20...
Opinions: I can practically copy and paste my review from The Purple Haze! Einspruch kept up the humour, the writing level, and the likeability for The Star of Whatever. There is an unbelievable amount of creativity and, at times, randomness in The Star of Whatever, allowing it to be an easy and fun read. Because of the length (much shorter than the previous), it is easier to stay engaged and enthusiastic.
My Favourite Thing: Time and time again, I appreciate Einspruch's writing abilities; specifically the innocent humour while reading The Star of Whatever. A lot of YA authors stretch themselves to write innuendos, roasts, or other inappropriate jokes, but Einspruch continues to write what was natural. In all of his books, are a lot of plays-on-words, bizarre stories, and ridiculous word choices. This book could easily be considered too juvenile to be funny for teenagers, but I enjoyed the break from all of the awfully written sex jokes.
I was also able to connect to these characters very easily for two reasons. One, Einspruch (although not right away) described them and showed the readers who they were. There was a range of character types and personalities, which opened up for more people finding a person they enjoy reading about. Two, there are a lot of "experiences" or "situations" that I share with the characters, including speaking French and having OCD. There are a lot of random French words in The Purple Haze, and because I speak French, I find it even funnier. I also see myself in Eloise a lot because of her OCD tendencies, such as "knowing when something is just right." The numbers in the library "just make sense." I noticed these habits right away and connected with Eloise, which made engaging with the text easier.
My Least Favourite Thing: Occasionally, some chapters are a bit long and focus on too many plots at once. Although this may be the style of writing (that I can't help), I prefer chapters to be shorter and divided by subject.
Opinions: I can practically copy and paste my review from The Purple Haze! Einspruch kept up the humour, the writing level, and the likeability for The Star of Whatever. There is an unbelievable amount of creativity and, at times, randomness in The Star of Whatever, allowing it to be an easy and fun read. Because of the length (much shorter than the previous), it is easier to stay engaged and enthusiastic.
My Favourite Thing: Time and time again, I appreciate Einspruch's writing abilities; specifically the innocent humour while reading The Star of Whatever. A lot of YA authors stretch themselves to write innuendos, roasts, or other inappropriate jokes, but Einspruch continues to write what was natural. In all of his books, are a lot of plays-on-words, bizarre stories, and ridiculous word choices. This book could easily be considered too juvenile to be funny for teenagers, but I enjoyed the break from all of the awfully written sex jokes.
I was also able to connect to these characters very easily for two reasons. One, Einspruch (although not right away) described them and showed the readers who they were. There was a range of character types and personalities, which opened up for more people finding a person they enjoy reading about. Two, there are a lot of "experiences" or "situations" that I share with the characters, including speaking French and having OCD. There are a lot of random French words in The Purple Haze, and because I speak French, I find it even funnier. I also see myself in Eloise a lot because of her OCD tendencies, such as "knowing when something is just right." The numbers in the library "just make sense." I noticed these habits right away and connected with Eloise, which made engaging with the text easier.
My Least Favourite Thing: Occasionally, some chapters are a bit long and focus on too many plots at once. Although this may be the style of writing (that I can't help), I prefer chapters to be shorter and divided by subject.
February 4, 2024
The Star of Whatever is the second installation of The Western Lands and All That Really Matters series. We're now at the point of Eloise - our leading lady - finally meeting her twin sister Princess Johanna, the reason of her mission. Alas, there's something suspicious going on with her sister, her uncle King Doncaster, and her uncle's jester, Turpy.
Which ends with Johanna being flung into the dreaded Purple Haze and Eloise fighting tooth and nail to rescue her. Will they make it? I'll tell you just this - they're not dead in the haze at least. But that's where everything in the Star of Whatever kicked off (in terms of the Purple Haze villain origin story, that is)
As the Royal twins braved Purple Haze and its devastations, we'll see Jerome and Lorch going through their own in the bowels of Castle Blotch. I especially enjoy the creativity of torture described there, especially the comical situation of Lorch and his taunter apprentice, Bungle the ferret. Sweet, sweet Bungle. Trying his best to be a respectable taunter. Lorch assisting him (Lorch's such a sport) got me in stitches too! Also, durian mentioned, whoot whoot!
As for Hector and the Nameless One, Andrew Einspruch really surprised me with them. I'm curious as how two horses (and one none speaking) will progress the story. Suffice to say, they held their own and I adore Kiiit the scullery mare. This has become one of those stories where I enjoy all characters. Main and side ones. They're all portrayed nicely and embellished the story as aptly as they should.
All in all, a brilliantly humorous read. I highly recommend you try the series if you enjoy humorous situations and fragile but resilient characters.
On to the third one, The Light Bearer.
Which ends with Johanna being flung into the dreaded Purple Haze and Eloise fighting tooth and nail to rescue her. Will they make it? I'll tell you just this - they're not dead in the haze at least. But that's where everything in the Star of Whatever kicked off (in terms of the Purple Haze villain origin story, that is)
As the Royal twins braved Purple Haze and its devastations, we'll see Jerome and Lorch going through their own in the bowels of Castle Blotch. I especially enjoy the creativity of torture described there, especially the comical situation of Lorch and his taunter apprentice, Bungle the ferret. Sweet, sweet Bungle. Trying his best to be a respectable taunter. Lorch assisting him (Lorch's such a sport) got me in stitches too! Also, durian mentioned, whoot whoot!
As for Hector and the Nameless One, Andrew Einspruch really surprised me with them. I'm curious as how two horses (and one none speaking) will progress the story. Suffice to say, they held their own and I adore Kiiit the scullery mare. This has become one of those stories where I enjoy all characters. Main and side ones. They're all portrayed nicely and embellished the story as aptly as they should.
All in all, a brilliantly humorous read. I highly recommend you try the series if you enjoy humorous situations and fragile but resilient characters.
On to the third one, The Light Bearer.
September 16, 2021
What started in "The Purple Haze" as a fantastically witty adventure continues in "The Star of Whatever". There's no easing up on the humour or the high quality of the writing. This is a brilliant follow-up to the first book, and I especially enjoyed getting to know some of the characters a bit better (along with the great story!). Watch out for the best epilogue EVER!! I hope Andrew Einspruch had as much fun writing this series as I am reading it!
My thanks to the author. This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion.
My thanks to the author. This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion.
August 3, 2019
Punchy payoffs progress plot
The adventures of Eloise and her sister-rival Joanna continue in this second book of the series. It's a buddy adventure as the questing party is rounded out by more fabulous non-human characters. The stakes increase with some truly twisted evil dudes, and Einspruch's trademark punny and satirical humour is worth the read alone.
If you're looking for good clean adventurous fun, this series is great. And due to the inter-species nature of the friendships, a delectable plant-based bias lingers on the tongue.
This book answers the question unanswered by The Purple Haze - a most satisfying payoff.
The adventures of Eloise and her sister-rival Joanna continue in this second book of the series. It's a buddy adventure as the questing party is rounded out by more fabulous non-human characters. The stakes increase with some truly twisted evil dudes, and Einspruch's trademark punny and satirical humour is worth the read alone.
If you're looking for good clean adventurous fun, this series is great. And due to the inter-species nature of the friendships, a delectable plant-based bias lingers on the tongue.
This book answers the question unanswered by The Purple Haze - a most satisfying payoff.
March 28, 2024
A continuation of the first book, just as witty, Loved getting answers and although there are no cliffhangers, the story goes on to a third book!
Definitely still has Jasper Fforde vibes.
Definitely still has Jasper Fforde vibes.
May 17, 2019
I am really enjoying this series. It's a fairly lighthearted YA read jam-packed with adventures. Even though there is some darker stuff going on, it's still presented in a way that's fairly clean.
I loved getting to see Eloise and Johanna together in this book and see how they interacted.
My favorite part about Einspruch's books is the clever ways he gets his characters out of trouble. Rather than fights and battles, they use their wits and come up with laugh-out-loud funny schemes to save themselves. His books are a delightful escape.
Also, this book wins for the best epilogue. You'll just have to see it for yourself. ;)
I loved getting to see Eloise and Johanna together in this book and see how they interacted.
My favorite part about Einspruch's books is the clever ways he gets his characters out of trouble. Rather than fights and battles, they use their wits and come up with laugh-out-loud funny schemes to save themselves. His books are a delightful escape.
Also, this book wins for the best epilogue. You'll just have to see it for yourself. ;)
July 21, 2019
Princesses Eloise and Johanna find themselves in a place where everyone and everything is dead, except them. They face a quest to rid their world of an ancient magical mistake. It will make them into true monarchs, as well as the heroes they were born to be.
September 27, 2019
A sequel to The Purple Haze, The Star of Whatever follows Eloise and Johanna as they endure the horrors of the fog and try to release their companions from the dungeons of the Half Kingdom.
As with The Purple Haze, the Star of Whatever is an excellently crafted, multilayered story of adventure, relationships, jealousy, politics,and family - both those bonded by blood and the family one chooses.
I adored the sly references to pop culture, the ridiculously wordy expletives ("by Çalaht's hair-encrusted chin warts") and the witty wordplay throughout.
As with The Purple Haze, the Star of Whatever is an excellently crafted, multilayered story of adventure, relationships, jealousy, politics,and family - both those bonded by blood and the family one chooses.
I adored the sly references to pop culture, the ridiculously wordy expletives ("by Çalaht's hair-encrusted chin warts") and the witty wordplay throughout.
March 31, 2021
I really liked the first book in the series, but I loved this one. I accidentally read it in less than a week it was so good. The stakes are higher, the action more intense, and what until you find out the source of the purple haze. Wait, just wait. It's that good! Right?
March 18, 2024
I read all 6 books in this series back-to-back. This is a fantasy world with silly word play, dad jokes, talking animals that seem to all be vegan, and lots of over-the-top humor that I enjoyed very much. There are TONS of gags (constantly - not a page is turned without humor) but the underlying story is about love, duty, friendship, personal responsibility and openheartedness. It's a lovely series centered around a 17 year old princess in a time of horse and carriage travel and weakening magic. In book 1-3, the story is about the princess's quest to rescue her kidnapped sister, capturing the bad guy, and what to do about the deadly purple haze. Books 4-6 are about the princess suddenly, sadly, inheriting the crown and not being prepared for that, dealing with invasion and an olive tree blight, and finding a true win-win for the realms. The series has heart and left we smiling, and even chuckling out loud.
March 12, 2021
This was a great sequel to the Purple Haze and a highly entertaining read. The story picks up from the end of the Purple Haze and sees Princess Eloise and her twin continue their epic journey. The book is still humorous to read but there are some more dramatic and darker moments this time round. The pacing was better than the first book, which means that it was easier to get into the story and finish it relatively quickly. There is also some good character development in the story; in particular the relationship between the two sister and the heroines of the tale. The development is limited somewhat by the expansion of the number of POV characters in the book. However the introduction of more POV characters meant that there was a exploration of different characters and locations until they all converge at the end of the book. Overall a fantastic and entertaining fantasy read.
January 27, 2021
“Real Heroines”
Such a joy to read to my daughters or young women who aren’t perfect; have to use their wits and are accepted as leaders!
Such a joy to read to my daughters or young women who aren’t perfect; have to use their wits and are accepted as leaders!
January 16, 2024
The Star of Whatever is the perfect follow-up to The Purple Haze.
I literally devoured the second book, reading voraciously to find out what happens next in the story. The Purple Haze set up an interesting world and The Star of Whatever enriches it by exploring stories of the past and giving the reader a deeper understanding of why the world is the way it is.
The back stories are laid out in an engaging manner by tying it into the plot and not as plain exposition. The book also balances moments of levity in hijinks along with deeply emotional moments and intrigue so we retain the best parts of the adventure from book one without any one aspect overshadowing the rest.
We have got to talk about Eloise and Johanna! The review would be incomplete without mentioning our main characters in specific. Both characters go on an arc of growth and it is a delight to read about them working together. Their sisterly bond is strong and only deepens post the events of this book. As an elder sister with a younger sister of my own, I could really relate to their motivations and interactions.
Overall the book is a great mix of character driven and plot driven storylines and it has definitely made me want to pick up book three.
I literally devoured the second book, reading voraciously to find out what happens next in the story. The Purple Haze set up an interesting world and The Star of Whatever enriches it by exploring stories of the past and giving the reader a deeper understanding of why the world is the way it is.
The back stories are laid out in an engaging manner by tying it into the plot and not as plain exposition. The book also balances moments of levity in hijinks along with deeply emotional moments and intrigue so we retain the best parts of the adventure from book one without any one aspect overshadowing the rest.
We have got to talk about Eloise and Johanna! The review would be incomplete without mentioning our main characters in specific. Both characters go on an arc of growth and it is a delight to read about them working together. Their sisterly bond is strong and only deepens post the events of this book. As an elder sister with a younger sister of my own, I could really relate to their motivations and interactions.
Overall the book is a great mix of character driven and plot driven storylines and it has definitely made me want to pick up book three.
October 12, 2024
The Star of Whatever answers burning questions left over from the Purple haze; and it does so in a most thrilling and riveting manner.
It has a more serious feel than its prequel, but it's just as humorously witty; set in the vivid world of "The Western Lands and all that really matters"
The depth of the characters; from the ambitious to the demure, the vengeful to the hopeful, (and the quirky!), guarantees the liveliest one of the liveliest and immersive plots you'd ever find in a book of this genre. Having strongly motivated characters, who are relatable yet still grow and change throughout the story contributes to the absorbing nature of this read.
The writing style remains clear and engaging and the book conveys themes of perseverance, grit and the importance of bonds between people.
It's great for young and not so young adults and I highly recommend
It has a more serious feel than its prequel, but it's just as humorously witty; set in the vivid world of "The Western Lands and all that really matters"
The depth of the characters; from the ambitious to the demure, the vengeful to the hopeful, (and the quirky!), guarantees the liveliest one of the liveliest and immersive plots you'd ever find in a book of this genre. Having strongly motivated characters, who are relatable yet still grow and change throughout the story contributes to the absorbing nature of this read.
The writing style remains clear and engaging and the book conveys themes of perseverance, grit and the importance of bonds between people.
It's great for young and not so young adults and I highly recommend
October 31, 2023
This is the next book after purple Haze. The princess rescued her sister using her family's magic. But now she is against a deadly force in which her friend is dying by fogging.
She has to rescue her. But the problem is her magic is weak. She has to take help and embark on this journey.
I liked this series.
But it's like children's story with big good and evil theme.
Overall easy reading .
She has to rescue her. But the problem is her magic is weak. She has to take help and embark on this journey.
I liked this series.
But it's like children's story with big good and evil theme.
Overall easy reading .
December 19, 2018
This was a great follow up to the Purple Haze. The writing style reminds me of a mix between Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams, but with the author's unique style mixed in. I love the fantasy setting, but the language and relationships between the characters is much more natural than some fantasy I've read. They seem like people you'd run into in your day to day lives, very relatable and likable. The further development of Princess Eloise and her relationship with her sister really rounded out themes from the first book in a satisfying way. I also love the way the author describes food - if I could get my hands on those recipes, I'd be a lot more easily persuaded to go vegan! (Any chance of a Western Lands Cookbook?) Overall, it was a great quick read for a cozy day; I finished it all in one rainy afternoon and loved every minute of it!
July 12, 2022
Your name is whāăąàáâãäåt?!
What a crazy, fun exciting read! I've never read such a bizarre story but it was so exciting, I had a hard time putting it down every evening! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
What a crazy, fun exciting read! I've never read such a bizarre story but it was so exciting, I had a hard time putting it down every evening! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
July 14, 2023
First I would like to thank BookTasters and the author for lending me a copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
The sequel to The Purple Haze focuses more on the plot rather than the travels that was more focused in the previous book. All the questions that arose in the previous book as how the purple haze was created, who created it, how it could be stopped and other questions were answered in it.
This book was mainly about finding out how the haze was created and how they were planning on ending it. And Eloise getting her sister back home.
There were some eye-roll moments, like when they were planning a rescue mission and obviously failing in their attempt, but it was alright. There were some twists in the book which could be seen coming. Hopefully things will change in the other books in the series.
Good book overall and hopefully the next book will be a great book. Expecting a good counterattack.
The sequel to The Purple Haze focuses more on the plot rather than the travels that was more focused in the previous book. All the questions that arose in the previous book as how the purple haze was created, who created it, how it could be stopped and other questions were answered in it.
This book was mainly about finding out how the haze was created and how they were planning on ending it. And Eloise getting her sister back home.
There were some eye-roll moments, like when they were planning a rescue mission and obviously failing in their attempt, but it was alright. There were some twists in the book which could be seen coming. Hopefully things will change in the other books in the series.
Good book overall and hopefully the next book will be a great book. Expecting a good counterattack.
February 1, 2022
I was very impressed with the first book, so I was very excited to continue with the second one "The Star of Whatever". The author's impressive naming skills strikes again!
Right off the bat we start with Eloise and Johanna in the Purple Haze, but something incredible happened... They are still alive! This can only mean one thing, magic cannot be used against blood. The sisters suddenly understand that the Purple Haze was caused by someone in their family, but who and why? They decided to journey further into the fog to find out.
Our other heroes, Jerome and Lorch have been prisoned in the dungeons, and tortured by taunters (a job a lot of bullies would love to have). They have been accused of conspiring against the King, and have been declared guilty and to be fogged.
Once again, I love how the characters are portrayed, and the growth that they go through in their journey. The conversations between Eloise and Johanna feel very realistic and touching, and you can feel how much they missed one another, the misunderstanding and love they still hold for each other. When they meet Melveeta and the complicated emotions they go through when finding out the truth of what happened, and the consequences of any decisions/actions. The sisters are one of the best characters I have seen in a long time.
I feel like the pacing of the story improved since the first book. The author makes sure to know when to continue on with a story, and when to switch to the other characters to continue theirs. There have been times in other books when they switch on me right on a cliffhanger and I hate it. On this book I feel like it switches on the correct times, so you are not left hanging.
Overall, the story is funny, charming, and so entertaining. The little touches of humor, or background stories like the Star of Whatever, or the quirk personalities that each character has make this story wholesome and very enjoyable. If you loved the first book, you are going to absolutely love this one as well.
Right off the bat we start with Eloise and Johanna in the Purple Haze, but something incredible happened... They are still alive! This can only mean one thing, magic cannot be used against blood. The sisters suddenly understand that the Purple Haze was caused by someone in their family, but who and why? They decided to journey further into the fog to find out.
Our other heroes, Jerome and Lorch have been prisoned in the dungeons, and tortured by taunters (a job a lot of bullies would love to have). They have been accused of conspiring against the King, and have been declared guilty and to be fogged.
Once again, I love how the characters are portrayed, and the growth that they go through in their journey. The conversations between Eloise and Johanna feel very realistic and touching, and you can feel how much they missed one another, the misunderstanding and love they still hold for each other. When they meet Melveeta and the complicated emotions they go through when finding out the truth of what happened, and the consequences of any decisions/actions. The sisters are one of the best characters I have seen in a long time.
I feel like the pacing of the story improved since the first book. The author makes sure to know when to continue on with a story, and when to switch to the other characters to continue theirs. There have been times in other books when they switch on me right on a cliffhanger and I hate it. On this book I feel like it switches on the correct times, so you are not left hanging.
Overall, the story is funny, charming, and so entertaining. The little touches of humor, or background stories like the Star of Whatever, or the quirk personalities that each character has make this story wholesome and very enjoyable. If you loved the first book, you are going to absolutely love this one as well.
December 31, 2021
I am really grateful to the author Andrew Einspruch and Booktasters for giving me an opportunity to read this book!
Genre:
Fantasy, YA Fiction, Series
Plot:
Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III, Heir to the throne of The Western Lands and All that Really Matters manages to find her missing twin only to lose her in the Purple Haze. Determined to get her back, Eloise follows her twin into the deadly zone and discovers something unusual. With clock ticking to save her friends from gallows, can Eloise break the centuries’ old hex, or will she and her twin join the heaps of bones amidst the Purple Haze?
Review:
A refreshing read once again! This book starts right where the first book ended. However, this book is lot more fast paced than the first. The author switches between different places beautifully and keeps us engaged. Honestly, I found it hard to keep down the book.
The book manages to answer many questions clearing up mystery in the first book. The growing bond between the sisters, the struggles of her friends in gallows, the remaining friends trying to find ways to rescue the sisters, figuring out the cause behind the deadly Purple Haze and finding solution, trying to rescue friends – all these events surrounding the mysterious Star of Whatever – this book packs quite a punch.
With the return of key characters from the previous book, few more new characters appear in this book. While the story traces the journey of Eloise, her twin, and her friends – other characters appear as per the situation. There’s huge development in Eloise’s character which felt quite refreshing.
The ending was good leaving us wanting for more. I am more curious to see what will happen next!
Make sure to read the first book in this series – The Purple Haze!
I definitely recommend this series! I am glad to wrap up 2021 with this book!
Genre:
Fantasy, YA Fiction, Series
Plot:
Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III, Heir to the throne of The Western Lands and All that Really Matters manages to find her missing twin only to lose her in the Purple Haze. Determined to get her back, Eloise follows her twin into the deadly zone and discovers something unusual. With clock ticking to save her friends from gallows, can Eloise break the centuries’ old hex, or will she and her twin join the heaps of bones amidst the Purple Haze?
Review:
A refreshing read once again! This book starts right where the first book ended. However, this book is lot more fast paced than the first. The author switches between different places beautifully and keeps us engaged. Honestly, I found it hard to keep down the book.
The book manages to answer many questions clearing up mystery in the first book. The growing bond between the sisters, the struggles of her friends in gallows, the remaining friends trying to find ways to rescue the sisters, figuring out the cause behind the deadly Purple Haze and finding solution, trying to rescue friends – all these events surrounding the mysterious Star of Whatever – this book packs quite a punch.
With the return of key characters from the previous book, few more new characters appear in this book. While the story traces the journey of Eloise, her twin, and her friends – other characters appear as per the situation. There’s huge development in Eloise’s character which felt quite refreshing.
The ending was good leaving us wanting for more. I am more curious to see what will happen next!
Make sure to read the first book in this series – The Purple Haze!
I definitely recommend this series! I am glad to wrap up 2021 with this book!
January 11, 2022
Andrew Einsprunch’s The Star of Whatever (The Western Lands and All That Really Matters #2) picks up where book 1 in the series left off. I delighted in book one, The Purple Haze, and so it surprised me that I enjoyed book two even more.
The story picks up in the Half Kingdom where Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III’s quest to rescue her twin sister, accompanied by her champion chipmunk, Jerome, her loyal guard, Lorch, and two royal horses. The deadly Purple Haze edges the Half Kingdom, and fogging has become the mode of execution of criminals. Once someone enters, they never come out, except for Princess Eloise and her twin. They not only don’t come right back out but feel called to delve deeper into the fog. Within the Haze a secondary quest develops. It leads them to a surprising find and a challenge for their lives.
Outside the Haze, Eloise’s friends Jerome and Lorch rot away in the royal dungeon while the horses try to figure out what they can do to get them out. The plot makes twists, turns, and a few herky-jerky maneuvers that surprise, like when the Purple Haze starts to spread. (I put it this way only to avoid spoilers.)
I highly recommend this book to people who enjoy coming of ages stories with strong female protagonists set in fantastical worlds where animals can talk and magic, even weak magic, is real. Think Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. Einsprunch’s pacing in The Star of Whatever is perfect. He does a great job with the ebb and flow of conflict and resolution with doses of subtle humor, suspense, and an emotionally engaging plot. I give this one a solid five stars. I’m thankful for the review copies I’ve received of this series, and I look forward to reading book three in the series, The Light Bearer.
The story picks up in the Half Kingdom where Princess Eloise Hydra Gumball III’s quest to rescue her twin sister, accompanied by her champion chipmunk, Jerome, her loyal guard, Lorch, and two royal horses. The deadly Purple Haze edges the Half Kingdom, and fogging has become the mode of execution of criminals. Once someone enters, they never come out, except for Princess Eloise and her twin. They not only don’t come right back out but feel called to delve deeper into the fog. Within the Haze a secondary quest develops. It leads them to a surprising find and a challenge for their lives.
Outside the Haze, Eloise’s friends Jerome and Lorch rot away in the royal dungeon while the horses try to figure out what they can do to get them out. The plot makes twists, turns, and a few herky-jerky maneuvers that surprise, like when the Purple Haze starts to spread. (I put it this way only to avoid spoilers.)
I highly recommend this book to people who enjoy coming of ages stories with strong female protagonists set in fantastical worlds where animals can talk and magic, even weak magic, is real. Think Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. Einsprunch’s pacing in The Star of Whatever is perfect. He does a great job with the ebb and flow of conflict and resolution with doses of subtle humor, suspense, and an emotionally engaging plot. I give this one a solid five stars. I’m thankful for the review copies I’ve received of this series, and I look forward to reading book three in the series, The Light Bearer.
July 8, 2025
You’d get the whole gist of why we’re at the north by traveling with Eloise through The Purple Haze, but are you truly prepared for the unraveling of The Star of Whatever?
Andrew Einspruch has written a hilarious yet emotionally resonant continuation that expands the world of the Western Lands with even more heart, wit, and imperative to add - words to learn.
This book picks up where Book 1 left off, with Princesses Eloise and Johanna vortexing magic in the thick dusty cloud (or rather, fog) of duty, family secrets, and political desperation. Their plunge into the Purple Haze isn't just a fantasy trope; it's a metaphor echoing that intentions will never supersede impact.
Einspruch masterfully layers absurd humor with sharp commentary. The prose sparkles with intelligent nonsense that somehow teaches you about jellyfish, horses, sibling dynamics, the importance of knowing your truth and adhering to it, and what it means to truly love someone even when it costs everything.
I was particularly struck by how the book handles intention versus impact. It is this effect or impact that we must weigh every time before indulging a thought or intention.
Einspruch challenges you to think deeply while keeping you genuinely entertained tooling satire and surrealism.
Also, there are cockroaches spying on royal secrets, and I am not okay. There’s no realm you don’t wish for a roach without wings, even in the Northern lands.
The Star of Whatever is for anyone who wants their fantasy with healthy doses of chaos, anger, and laughter. It's literally a force. You don’t just read it - you feel it pulling your humor, knowledge, and settling in your heart.
By Çalaht’s punctured eardrums, everyone should pick up an Andrew Einspruch!
Andrew Einspruch has written a hilarious yet emotionally resonant continuation that expands the world of the Western Lands with even more heart, wit, and imperative to add - words to learn.
This book picks up where Book 1 left off, with Princesses Eloise and Johanna vortexing magic in the thick dusty cloud (or rather, fog) of duty, family secrets, and political desperation. Their plunge into the Purple Haze isn't just a fantasy trope; it's a metaphor echoing that intentions will never supersede impact.
Einspruch masterfully layers absurd humor with sharp commentary. The prose sparkles with intelligent nonsense that somehow teaches you about jellyfish, horses, sibling dynamics, the importance of knowing your truth and adhering to it, and what it means to truly love someone even when it costs everything.
I was particularly struck by how the book handles intention versus impact. It is this effect or impact that we must weigh every time before indulging a thought or intention.
Einspruch challenges you to think deeply while keeping you genuinely entertained tooling satire and surrealism.
Also, there are cockroaches spying on royal secrets, and I am not okay. There’s no realm you don’t wish for a roach without wings, even in the Northern lands.
The Star of Whatever is for anyone who wants their fantasy with healthy doses of chaos, anger, and laughter. It's literally a force. You don’t just read it - you feel it pulling your humor, knowledge, and settling in your heart.
By Çalaht’s punctured eardrums, everyone should pick up an Andrew Einspruch!
July 4, 2023
Thank you to Booktasters for letting me review this book.
The Star of Whatever was pretty fast paced and full of chaos as compared to the Purple Haze.
I liked that all questions were answered so swiftly that I didn't have to think much and just enjoy the ride. As usual, loved Jerome and felt so so bad for what he went through.
Also loved how we see the two sisters finally getting past their differences and supporting each other. They make a good pair and think so alike, it must be nice having someone like that!
And of course, how can we forget dearest Turpentine. The way I hate this guy omg, if he had a reason for behaving like this i would understand a little but he's just been ordering around killings?
Loved the chaos with the ear hair in the Throne Room though, finally felt like things were looking up(meanwhile everyone was on the floor, how ironic).
And I have to say, The Epilogue??? I'm not ready for the mess Turpy will cause anymore.
The Star of Whatever was pretty fast paced and full of chaos as compared to the Purple Haze.
I liked that all questions were answered so swiftly that I didn't have to think much and just enjoy the ride. As usual, loved Jerome and felt so so bad for what he went through.
Also loved how we see the two sisters finally getting past their differences and supporting each other. They make a good pair and think so alike, it must be nice having someone like that!
And of course, how can we forget dearest Turpentine. The way I hate this guy omg, if he had a reason for behaving like this i would understand a little but he's just been ordering around killings?
Loved the chaos with the ear hair in the Throne Room though, finally felt like things were looking up(meanwhile everyone was on the floor, how ironic).
And I have to say, The Epilogue??? I'm not ready for the mess Turpy will cause anymore.
August 24, 2023
Many thanks to Booktasters and the author for a copy of this book😊 my review is completely voluntary and unbiased.
I absolutely loved the first book and its sequel certainly doesn't disappoint! Witty and hilarious, the author has succeeded in writing a great follow up to the series.
The second book does focus on more on the plot and answered some questions particularly about how the Purple Haze came about.
I definitely saw the twist coming but the whole story is well-paced and well-written from start to finish and I enjoyed reading through it.
The epilogue definitely got me chuckling😂 it seems like the adventure is not ending anytime soon for our main character
The series is definitely a great cozy read so far and I'm looking forward to continue reading 😆
I absolutely loved the first book and its sequel certainly doesn't disappoint! Witty and hilarious, the author has succeeded in writing a great follow up to the series.
The second book does focus on more on the plot and answered some questions particularly about how the Purple Haze came about.
I definitely saw the twist coming but the whole story is well-paced and well-written from start to finish and I enjoyed reading through it.
The epilogue definitely got me chuckling😂 it seems like the adventure is not ending anytime soon for our main character
The series is definitely a great cozy read so far and I'm looking forward to continue reading 😆
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