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Instanolde Chronicles #2
King of Star–Cast Skies
Lystra swore never to mourn a king again, her heart shattered by loss as her desert kingdom of Instanolde fights for survival. As its queen, she intended to save her people, and in forging a marriage alliance with its prince-heir, she vowed to save him from the deadly curse as well. But she never meant to fall in love again. Now, with Instanolde under attack and the curse growing more monstrous by the day, Lystra, along with Elerek and Rahzar, find themselves captives on an impossible journey across the desert. A journey to break the curse, one that comes with a steep cost, a cost Lystra isn't sure her heart can pay.
Elerek never intended to survive, only to save his kingdom for his queen to reign in glory. But after watching Instanolde fall into ruin and a host of secrets and lies swarm the shadows, his numbered days may be the key to ensuring they survive. His curse, once a personal death sentence, has become a source of incredible power, one he intends to unleash upon his enemies. But, still reeling from a bitter betrayal by those he trusted most, Elerek finds himself wondering who the true threats to his kingdom are.
Razhar's world has spiraled out of control. His comfortable life in the palace with a king had allowed him to keep his secrets deeply buried, but with Elerek's curse becoming more deadly, and the kingdom on its knees before the invaders, one calculated risk brought his dark truths into the light. Leveraging the power of his own abilities while fending off the demons of his past, Razhar is forced to walk a fine line between saving those he loves––or saving only himself.
It's a race against time to either save the kingdom or break the curse. When every choice carries a cost and each moment counts, the story that began in Queen of Shifting Sands meets its epic conclusion in King of Star-Cast Skies, where forgiveness, sacrifice, and a love to hold up the skies set the stage across this sweeping desert adventure.
Elerek never intended to survive, only to save his kingdom for his queen to reign in glory. But after watching Instanolde fall into ruin and a host of secrets and lies swarm the shadows, his numbered days may be the key to ensuring they survive. His curse, once a personal death sentence, has become a source of incredible power, one he intends to unleash upon his enemies. But, still reeling from a bitter betrayal by those he trusted most, Elerek finds himself wondering who the true threats to his kingdom are.
Razhar's world has spiraled out of control. His comfortable life in the palace with a king had allowed him to keep his secrets deeply buried, but with Elerek's curse becoming more deadly, and the kingdom on its knees before the invaders, one calculated risk brought his dark truths into the light. Leveraging the power of his own abilities while fending off the demons of his past, Razhar is forced to walk a fine line between saving those he loves––or saving only himself.
It's a race against time to either save the kingdom or break the curse. When every choice carries a cost and each moment counts, the story that began in Queen of Shifting Sands meets its epic conclusion in King of Star-Cast Skies, where forgiveness, sacrifice, and a love to hold up the skies set the stage across this sweeping desert adventure.
462 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 8, 2025
It’s heeeeeere!!!
Part two, the epic conclusion, the completion of the story that I sent out to tell. It’s raw, it’s tragic, it’s filled with adventure and romance, and I’m so proud of it.
I started writing the story five years ago, in 2020, during that time, the world went crazy, was diagnosed with infertility, moved across states, and endured rough job changes, went through grief and depression, several big book related rejections, and then finally Whimsical took a chance on me. The first book released while we were living in the hospital with our adopted baby. Two dreams came true at the same time.
I hope you enjoy this journey, I hope that you don’t grow weary of life, and that you always seek starlight (hope). I hope that Elerek, Lystra, and Razhar resonate with you, as you watch them rise up and fight the battle that they must.
I’m so immensely proud of this story, and then I got to tell it, thank you for reading 💜
-wander and wonder
Kaitlyn
Part two, the epic conclusion, the completion of the story that I sent out to tell. It’s raw, it’s tragic, it’s filled with adventure and romance, and I’m so proud of it.
I started writing the story five years ago, in 2020, during that time, the world went crazy, was diagnosed with infertility, moved across states, and endured rough job changes, went through grief and depression, several big book related rejections, and then finally Whimsical took a chance on me. The first book released while we were living in the hospital with our adopted baby. Two dreams came true at the same time.
I hope you enjoy this journey, I hope that you don’t grow weary of life, and that you always seek starlight (hope). I hope that Elerek, Lystra, and Razhar resonate with you, as you watch them rise up and fight the battle that they must.
I’m so immensely proud of this story, and then I got to tell it, thank you for reading 💜
-wander and wonder
Kaitlyn
May 26, 2025
"We cannot grow weary of life."
When I tell you this is now one of my favorite fantasy duologies EVER I'm not exaggerating ;-; I'm not normally the girlie who says "this book ruined me, you should also read it" but I will make an exception in this case. I need more people to suffer with me. Please.
Queen of Shifting Sands was one of my top reads of 2024, but it was only the first part of the story, and I was eagerly waiting for this finale. I knew it was going to hurt, and it did, but oh, it hurt so good. The fight for Instanolde is nothing short of epic, and while world-saving is certainly on the agenda for this novel, there's so much time and heart put into the journeys of each character individually. The biblical allegory is STRONG here, but it's also just a cool fantasy, complete with prophecies, curses, and political maneuverings. It's a rollercoaster, truly, and I'd advise properly strapping in before you begin. You won't be able to get off. Or rather, you won't want to get off until the very end.
I cried actual tears. For that alone, it would get a high rating, but there are many reasons I have to give it 5 stars. Brilliant. Heart-breaking. Healing. 10/10 I recommend.
alexa, play "fortnight" by taylor swift, I love them, it's ruining my life
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
When I tell you this is now one of my favorite fantasy duologies EVER I'm not exaggerating ;-; I'm not normally the girlie who says "this book ruined me, you should also read it" but I will make an exception in this case. I need more people to suffer with me. Please.
Queen of Shifting Sands was one of my top reads of 2024, but it was only the first part of the story, and I was eagerly waiting for this finale. I knew it was going to hurt, and it did, but oh, it hurt so good. The fight for Instanolde is nothing short of epic, and while world-saving is certainly on the agenda for this novel, there's so much time and heart put into the journeys of each character individually. The biblical allegory is STRONG here, but it's also just a cool fantasy, complete with prophecies, curses, and political maneuverings. It's a rollercoaster, truly, and I'd advise properly strapping in before you begin. You won't be able to get off. Or rather, you won't want to get off until the very end.
I cried actual tears. For that alone, it would get a high rating, but there are many reasons I have to give it 5 stars. Brilliant. Heart-breaking. Healing. 10/10 I recommend.
alexa, play "fortnight" by taylor swift, I love them, it's ruining my life
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
May 13, 2025
Where to begin?
This is one of the books that profoundly touches your soul in a raw, relatable, and healing way. It's a book of grief, of desperation, of despair, of love, and of hope. Basically all the things I love most.
It was wonderful to get to be with the characters again and continue their journey, but it was intense and I have emotional damage. Absolutely wonderful. Like its predecessor, it's going to be one of my top reads for this year. Also the first time I can remember a duology with the second book being equally epic as the first.
Lovely work, Kaitlyn. This book (and series) is going to live in my heart for a long time.
Content: some romantic scenes, fade-to-black between husband and wife. Nothing explicit, but it is romantic and some readers might feel awkward about it.
This is one of the books that profoundly touches your soul in a raw, relatable, and healing way. It's a book of grief, of desperation, of despair, of love, and of hope. Basically all the things I love most.
It was wonderful to get to be with the characters again and continue their journey, but it was intense and I have emotional damage. Absolutely wonderful. Like its predecessor, it's going to be one of my top reads for this year. Also the first time I can remember a duology with the second book being equally epic as the first.
Lovely work, Kaitlyn. This book (and series) is going to live in my heart for a long time.
Content: some romantic scenes, fade-to-black between husband and wife. Nothing explicit, but it is romantic and some readers might feel awkward about it.
November 29, 2025
Yep, there goes my heart.
March 28, 2025
When I see stars, l think I will remember these characters, and their story. I will remember to not grow weary of life.
Queen of Shifting Sands and King of Star-Cast Skies has epic worldbuilding, beautiful prose, characters to love, sympathize with (or hate), real and raw themes, and a satisfying conclusion.
Kaitlyn Carter Brown is an amazing storyteller and I am so thankful for her words.
As a person, a reader, and a writer, I will be thinking of this duology for a long time.
(Please read it and fangirl with me!)
Queen of Shifting Sands and King of Star-Cast Skies has epic worldbuilding, beautiful prose, characters to love, sympathize with (or hate), real and raw themes, and a satisfying conclusion.
Kaitlyn Carter Brown is an amazing storyteller and I am so thankful for her words.
As a person, a reader, and a writer, I will be thinking of this duology for a long time.
(Please read it and fangirl with me!)
March 25, 2025
I have no words. This book was perfectly heartbreaking yet hopeful. Beautiful yet tragic. A back and forth pull of giving into the darkness and holding onto starlight. 😭😍🤩
The first book started slow, then once it picked up I loved it, so I was afraid this one would be the same, but no. King of Star-Cast Skies started with so much tension and never stopped for the entire book. I literally couldn’t put it down!! 😆😱 You have no choice but to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next, if the characters would find healing amidst all the lies, secrets, and betrayals, if they would make it through the harrowing journey across the desert with cruel captors taunting them, if the cursed king and fierce queen would reconcile and find happiness in stolen moments, if it could even possibly end without their deaths.
I won’t give any spoilers, but I am thoroughly satisfied (if a little sad) with the ending! The author had the events happen in such a way that I hadn’t thought of, and that fit the book so well. Things aren’t perfect. Deaths and sorrow riddle our MCs, but there’s also life. Hope. Love. Starlight. ✨
Lystra and Elerek were such great characters, each broken and imperfect, but striving to save their kingdom whatever the cost! And they literally gave their everything to it. I loved loved LOVED their relationship and watching the romance finally take flight!! 😍😍😍 The ending was so sweet. 🥹 Rahzar was an intricate character and I really enjoyed getting his POV as well. There was so much hurt yet sacrificial love in him, and my heart broke for what he went through. 😭 But again, I think the author did such a great job writing him and his ending!
Also can we take a moment to appreciate the GORGEOUS covers for not only this book but Queen of Shifting Sands??!!! 🤩🤩🤩 Stunning!
If you love adventure, curses that doom you to die, clean romance that grows despite the adversity, friendships, themes of forgiveness, hatred, redemption, and finding hope, an immersive desert world that will teleport you to beautiful yet dangerous lands, and so much more, I HIGHLY recommend this duology!! 😆😍
/I received an ARC from the author and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
The first book started slow, then once it picked up I loved it, so I was afraid this one would be the same, but no. King of Star-Cast Skies started with so much tension and never stopped for the entire book. I literally couldn’t put it down!! 😆😱 You have no choice but to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next, if the characters would find healing amidst all the lies, secrets, and betrayals, if they would make it through the harrowing journey across the desert with cruel captors taunting them, if the cursed king and fierce queen would reconcile and find happiness in stolen moments, if it could even possibly end without their deaths.
I won’t give any spoilers, but I am thoroughly satisfied (if a little sad) with the ending! The author had the events happen in such a way that I hadn’t thought of, and that fit the book so well. Things aren’t perfect. Deaths and sorrow riddle our MCs, but there’s also life. Hope. Love. Starlight. ✨
Lystra and Elerek were such great characters, each broken and imperfect, but striving to save their kingdom whatever the cost! And they literally gave their everything to it. I loved loved LOVED their relationship and watching the romance finally take flight!! 😍😍😍 The ending was so sweet. 🥹 Rahzar was an intricate character and I really enjoyed getting his POV as well. There was so much hurt yet sacrificial love in him, and my heart broke for what he went through. 😭 But again, I think the author did such a great job writing him and his ending!
Also can we take a moment to appreciate the GORGEOUS covers for not only this book but Queen of Shifting Sands??!!! 🤩🤩🤩 Stunning!
If you love adventure, curses that doom you to die, clean romance that grows despite the adversity, friendships, themes of forgiveness, hatred, redemption, and finding hope, an immersive desert world that will teleport you to beautiful yet dangerous lands, and so much more, I HIGHLY recommend this duology!! 😆😍
/I received an ARC from the author and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
February 27, 2025
Death, betrayal, heartbreak, defeat and imprisonment––this is where Brown left off in Queen of Shifting Sands. And while you might wonder how any author could bring things back, considering the circumstances, Brown does not disappoint. She resurrects it all, and more, in this epic conclusion of the Instanolde Chronicles. I can’t promise you won’t shed a tear, but I do promise that this final journey is beautiful and very much worth the wait.
March 25, 2025
Oh my heart. I'm not crying. This is a long heart string tugging adventure. One of love and hope. Of realizing your own worth. One of sacrifice. Discovering your strengths. And realizing your weaknesses. I have loved this series from the beginning.
April 25, 2025
A sequel that is both dramatic and tender, King of Star-Cast Skies is written with the same precision and confidence as its predecessor. Kaitlyn has offered readers the curse of a tragic story, yet deftly wields the necessary starlight to carry her words home.
March 6, 2025
A potent, page-turner of a sequel. This story follows our doomed lovers, their friends, and foes on a journey where life is fragile, love is raw, forgiveness is a must, and hope burns distant but bright both in hearts and in the far-flung stars.
May 31, 2025
I read an early draft and it was amazing. I'm looking forward to being surprised by the polished *final* piece and will update my review soon! The cover art for this is perfect. UPDATE: It was even better than I expected. It was epic and beautiful. I was very pleased with the ending, all loose ends tied up and it leaves hope for the future. I especially liked the bonus chapter (I got the hardcover) with Raz and El as boys. Raz is probably my favorite character.
November 30, 2024
I read an early draft of this book. It brought tears to my eyes, and any book that does that is an automatic 5 stars. I'll give a more thorough review after I read the published version. 😉
July 24, 2025
This book is one of the most beautiful things I've ever read. It's a reminder in page in ink to "not grow weary of life". And honestly, that's something I really, really needed.
I've had this giant tome sitting on my bookshelf for a few months, and I always intended to read it this summer, but with one thing and another, it was still sitting there until this month.
I had just finished reading another thick book and was looking for another to read when my eyes landed on this one. I reached for it half hesitant. Was this the right time? Could I commit the time I needed to properly read this book? I wasn't sure, but I decided to take a chance.
A few days into this book, I got slammed with a HEAVY bout of depression. I actually begged God to take me because I couldn't stand the pain of a breaking heart. But with the help of friends, a lot of prayer and this book, I'm on the otherside.
And this book. This precious, precious book. It was a lifeline to me when my heart shattered and shattered and SHATTERED again and again. When life pounded me into the dust and my mind told me that I was worthless and had no future but pain. This book spoke life into my darkness.
It's not an easy read by any means. It tackles some heavy themes, depression one of them, but it's laced with joy and hope too. Messages of being broken and healing, learning to live despite being shattered and not growing weary with life. And for these reasons, if for nothing else, this book is one of the best books I've ever read, and I intend to read it many more times throughout my life.
I've had this giant tome sitting on my bookshelf for a few months, and I always intended to read it this summer, but with one thing and another, it was still sitting there until this month.
I had just finished reading another thick book and was looking for another to read when my eyes landed on this one. I reached for it half hesitant. Was this the right time? Could I commit the time I needed to properly read this book? I wasn't sure, but I decided to take a chance.
A few days into this book, I got slammed with a HEAVY bout of depression. I actually begged God to take me because I couldn't stand the pain of a breaking heart. But with the help of friends, a lot of prayer and this book, I'm on the otherside.
And this book. This precious, precious book. It was a lifeline to me when my heart shattered and shattered and SHATTERED again and again. When life pounded me into the dust and my mind told me that I was worthless and had no future but pain. This book spoke life into my darkness.
It's not an easy read by any means. It tackles some heavy themes, depression one of them, but it's laced with joy and hope too. Messages of being broken and healing, learning to live despite being shattered and not growing weary with life. And for these reasons, if for nothing else, this book is one of the best books I've ever read, and I intend to read it many more times throughout my life.
March 27, 2025
Wow! Felt all the feelings with this book! Action, strife, love and sacrifice that leads to an epic conclusion. Full of vivid descriptions, heart wrenching moments and beautiful moments.
-Multi POVs
-A dangerous desert journey
-A deadly curse
-Secrets & sacrifices
-Friendships tested
-Love ❤️
*I received an ARC from NetGalley. Opinions are my own.
-Multi POVs
-A dangerous desert journey
-A deadly curse
-Secrets & sacrifices
-Friendships tested
-Love ❤️
*I received an ARC from NetGalley. Opinions are my own.
April 10, 2025
It’s hard to put into words what a magical and majestic story this is, so I recommend you read it and see the words the author chose for yourself 🤩💙✨
King of Star-Cast Skies is beautiful journey worth the darkness, hope, and tears. Every chapter and character were so perfectly crafted with meaning and starlight, leaving a story that sucks you in, holds you tight, and leaves you with a satisfying and emotional conclusion.
I LOVE this story and love the journey these characters take. The world building and story telling are immersive and launch so perfectly off the foundation built by Queen of Shifting Sands. A perfect read for anyone who wants a little depth, adventure, and, of course, a breathtaking romance with their fantasy.
King of Star-Cast Skies is beautiful journey worth the darkness, hope, and tears. Every chapter and character were so perfectly crafted with meaning and starlight, leaving a story that sucks you in, holds you tight, and leaves you with a satisfying and emotional conclusion.
I LOVE this story and love the journey these characters take. The world building and story telling are immersive and launch so perfectly off the foundation built by Queen of Shifting Sands. A perfect read for anyone who wants a little depth, adventure, and, of course, a breathtaking romance with their fantasy.
March 13, 2025
Fantastic follow up to queen of shifting sands! The push-pull of the romance, the intrigue, adventure, and the magic system was everything you’d want in a romantic fsntssy!
April 14, 2025
A stunning finish to this beautiful duology! Where do I start?!? I adore Razhar and so love that he is a POV character in this one. Finding out the secrets he’s been keeping had me feeling all the feels. So did El and Lystra and their finally (FINALLY) admitting and acting on their feelings. Each character’s arc is solid and so very satisfying, and I cried at least three times as the Jarkins, the curse, the secrets, and grandma’s plotting all came to a head. Do not miss this duology!
June 5, 2025
What a fantastic conclusion to this story!
King of Star-Cast Skies answers all the questions I was left with after Queen of Shifting Sands.
The word I keep coming back to with this book and its characters is “tragic” and yet it’s a book about hope.
These characters are put in impossible situation after impossible situation but they still continue to fight for themselves and their country. It’s impossible to ignore the grief and tragedies they have gone through and yet they cling to life.
“Let’s not grow weary of life.” ~ Razhar
This is a story of hope and perseverance and I loved getting to experience it.
King of Star-Cast Skies answers all the questions I was left with after Queen of Shifting Sands.
The word I keep coming back to with this book and its characters is “tragic” and yet it’s a book about hope.
These characters are put in impossible situation after impossible situation but they still continue to fight for themselves and their country. It’s impossible to ignore the grief and tragedies they have gone through and yet they cling to life.
“Let’s not grow weary of life.” ~ Razhar
This is a story of hope and perseverance and I loved getting to experience it.
April 25, 2025
Linger in the desert as readers’ beloved Lystra, Elerek & Razhar desperately cling to life.
The desert inspired fantasy world continues to engage the reader with new life-threatening obstacles at every turn.
Loved Razhar’s character growth in this story and the addition of his POV to portray it.
Lystra continues to inspire with regal presence.
And who couldn’t love Elerek, resigned to die since childhood but yearning for more?
This book continues exploring themes of grief but through a different lens from the first installment which I found engaging.
My favorite character is Tiniah the feisty cardant!
The desert inspired fantasy world continues to engage the reader with new life-threatening obstacles at every turn.
Loved Razhar’s character growth in this story and the addition of his POV to portray it.
Lystra continues to inspire with regal presence.
And who couldn’t love Elerek, resigned to die since childhood but yearning for more?
This book continues exploring themes of grief but through a different lens from the first installment which I found engaging.
My favorite character is Tiniah the feisty cardant!
April 21, 2025
Don't grow weary of life
This is a very heartfelt book. Many other readers have mentioned crying. I doubted I would, no matter how moving, since I don't as a rule, but even I came close when the star was renamed.
This story is in parts so many things, from the laughter to the pain. I enjoy any story where there's an inverse fight over a sacrifice and this one pulls that off very well.
I would caution some readers. There are several scenes where a character will start disrobing another as they lie or are about to lie together. It never goes to the point of describing the bodies or the actual interactions afterward, but it is far more than a bunch of kisses.
I am truly looking forward to the next work by the author. That will also be a book work jumping on, I know.
This is a very heartfelt book. Many other readers have mentioned crying. I doubted I would, no matter how moving, since I don't as a rule, but even I came close when the star was renamed.
This story is in parts so many things, from the laughter to the pain. I enjoy any story where there's an inverse fight over a sacrifice and this one pulls that off very well.
I would caution some readers. There are several scenes where a character will start disrobing another as they lie or are about to lie together. It never goes to the point of describing the bodies or the actual interactions afterward, but it is far more than a bunch of kisses.
I am truly looking forward to the next work by the author. That will also be a book work jumping on, I know.
July 23, 2025
This is such a beautiful story. It's even better than the first book and SO TENSE. Everything is terrible for so much of the book, but that just makes the ending a hard-fought-for victory. Everyone doesn't survive and it's not all happy, but there is so much hope that there's joy in the tears. I feel so connected to these characters in a way I feel like hasn't happened to me for a while. So good.
July 11, 2025
Hopeful, beautiful, and intense. Reading this feels like strolling through Middle Eastern street markets, trekking through waterless deserts, and sharing in impossible romances. Some parts felt a little forced and predictable, but I loved the writing. Beautiful prose that twinkled like starlight and flowed like the Sancen 🤩
April 9, 2025
An amazing story filled with incredible world building, compelling characters, forgiveness, grief, and hope.
These are the kind of books that stick with you long after they end. King of Star-Cast Skies will leave you thinking about the vast expanses of desert, water flowing fast and deep, and stars twinkling in the heavens, giving the hope of a better future.
I loved that we got three POVS in this one (the addition of Rhazar was PHENOMENAL, as I knew it would be). It added to the depth and resonance of this already immersive world and its characters.
And the prose. The prose! Goodness, it’s gorgeous. It’s the kind you could read for all your life and never grow tired of. It’s immersive, heartbreaking, full, and descriptive.
I’ve never read books with a world I could truly feel with all my senses, but the imagery is so powerful that I felt like I was there with these characters.
The plot and messages of the story are equally powerful, adding to its impact. I loved all three of our main characters and think their POVS were all necessary to tell this story in the best manner.
This is a duology I will return to and recommend to those looking for fantasy that feels like a breath of fresh air.
These are the kind of books that stick with you long after they end. King of Star-Cast Skies will leave you thinking about the vast expanses of desert, water flowing fast and deep, and stars twinkling in the heavens, giving the hope of a better future.
I loved that we got three POVS in this one (the addition of Rhazar was PHENOMENAL, as I knew it would be). It added to the depth and resonance of this already immersive world and its characters.
And the prose. The prose! Goodness, it’s gorgeous. It’s the kind you could read for all your life and never grow tired of. It’s immersive, heartbreaking, full, and descriptive.
I’ve never read books with a world I could truly feel with all my senses, but the imagery is so powerful that I felt like I was there with these characters.
The plot and messages of the story are equally powerful, adding to its impact. I loved all three of our main characters and think their POVS were all necessary to tell this story in the best manner.
This is a duology I will return to and recommend to those looking for fantasy that feels like a breath of fresh air.
April 9, 2025
I actually liked this book better than the first.
Be forewarned that this book is HEARTBREAKING. Absolutely heartbreaking.
The world building, as usual, was absolutely immaculate. The author builds amazing visuals and scenes and history. It’s like watching a painter paint and I loved every minute of it. You can tell that so much went into the background of this story.
And I adored Lystra. It’s rare we get a female character that’s so bad ass without being extra-worldly (though…. I guess technically at the very end she was. But for 95% of the book she wasn’t superhuman.)
She showed emotion and weakness but still had strength. She was bred to be a queen and she acted as such from start to finish. She was smart and cunning and capable. Seriously, she was such a well developed character. She was bad ass because she had been crafted to be that way her whole life and it was amazing to watch.
My biggest issue with this book was actually the same I had with the last book. It dragged for about 50% of the book before picking up. I felt like a lot of the time in the desert could have been cut out. And it would have benefitted more to see what was happening back in Instanolde.
An amazing conclusion to this duology though and definitely worth the read.
Be forewarned that this book is HEARTBREAKING. Absolutely heartbreaking.
The world building, as usual, was absolutely immaculate. The author builds amazing visuals and scenes and history. It’s like watching a painter paint and I loved every minute of it. You can tell that so much went into the background of this story.
And I adored Lystra. It’s rare we get a female character that’s so bad ass without being extra-worldly (though…. I guess technically at the very end she was. But for 95% of the book she wasn’t superhuman.)
She showed emotion and weakness but still had strength. She was bred to be a queen and she acted as such from start to finish. She was smart and cunning and capable. Seriously, she was such a well developed character. She was bad ass because she had been crafted to be that way her whole life and it was amazing to watch.
My biggest issue with this book was actually the same I had with the last book. It dragged for about 50% of the book before picking up. I felt like a lot of the time in the desert could have been cut out. And it would have benefitted more to see what was happening back in Instanolde.
An amazing conclusion to this duology though and definitely worth the read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Rating: YA
Another beautiful story, and the conclusion to Queen of Shifting Sands that I was hoping for 🥹
Elerek is cursed, and anyone he touches will eventually turn to water. The book picks up where book 1 ended, and Elerek, Lystra, and Razhar are held captive by the Jarkins. Many of the Jarkins were cursed in the struggle, so they take our MC’s into the desert on a journey to break the curse.
I love Lystra, she’s so strong and fierce, yet empathetic and kind. She’s a beautiful character who has experienced grief, and heartache, yet is still able to see beauty and hope in the world. Her relationship with Elerek is still developing when this book starts, but he’s struggling with his own grief and guilt over the loss of his brother, and all those who succumbed to the curse after his touch. I love Razhar’s role in this book and the truths that he kept hidden for so long.
It did take me a bit of time to fully get into this book, but once I did I flew through it - I did also have 3 books on the go though 🙃 And I also would’ve LOVED an epilogue to get a glimpse into the future that they didn’t think they’d get. There are themes of sacrifice, grief, guilt, betrayal, and forgiveness, and the writing is just beautiful 💛✨!!
Rating: YA
Another beautiful story, and the conclusion to Queen of Shifting Sands that I was hoping for 🥹
Elerek is cursed, and anyone he touches will eventually turn to water. The book picks up where book 1 ended, and Elerek, Lystra, and Razhar are held captive by the Jarkins. Many of the Jarkins were cursed in the struggle, so they take our MC’s into the desert on a journey to break the curse.
I love Lystra, she’s so strong and fierce, yet empathetic and kind. She’s a beautiful character who has experienced grief, and heartache, yet is still able to see beauty and hope in the world. Her relationship with Elerek is still developing when this book starts, but he’s struggling with his own grief and guilt over the loss of his brother, and all those who succumbed to the curse after his touch. I love Razhar’s role in this book and the truths that he kept hidden for so long.
It did take me a bit of time to fully get into this book, but once I did I flew through it - I did also have 3 books on the go though 🙃 And I also would’ve LOVED an epilogue to get a glimpse into the future that they didn’t think they’d get. There are themes of sacrifice, grief, guilt, betrayal, and forgiveness, and the writing is just beautiful 💛✨!!
April 11, 2025
A Powerful Conclusion to a Canyon Deep Duology
Wow! It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that has been such a tightly wound journey. As unpredictable as a desert torrent, I did not know where this powerful story would go.
But oh, the path it carved will not leave me soon. Elerek, Lystra, and Razhar become deeper and more flesh as they turn to water and sand.
As their story concludes, and as life’s storms rage, do not be afraid to live!
Wow! It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that has been such a tightly wound journey. As unpredictable as a desert torrent, I did not know where this powerful story would go.
But oh, the path it carved will not leave me soon. Elerek, Lystra, and Razhar become deeper and more flesh as they turn to water and sand.
As their story concludes, and as life’s storms rage, do not be afraid to live!
April 28, 2025
The book was beautiful and heartbreaking from start to finish. The words were spun so poetically and powerfully. The character arcs were full and meaningful and we got to watch them come so far together.
This is a beautiful continuation from Queen of Shifting Sands. I think it was even better in the end; though both are captivating stories of finding starlight hope in the midst of darkness. We saw such raw and painful moments, but they led to those of hope and redemption.
If you want a story of starlight, where the characters fight darkness deeply, not just in their outside world but in their very hearts, and come out of the other end, pick up this story you will not be disappointed!
This is a beautiful continuation from Queen of Shifting Sands. I think it was even better in the end; though both are captivating stories of finding starlight hope in the midst of darkness. We saw such raw and painful moments, but they led to those of hope and redemption.
If you want a story of starlight, where the characters fight darkness deeply, not just in their outside world but in their very hearts, and come out of the other end, pick up this story you will not be disappointed!
August 1, 2025
I was screaming by the end of the first book, and I had no idea where things would go (one hell of a way to leave things hanging there).
In this book we get more information about the curse, how (if) it can be broken. Instanolde deals with the Jarkin invasion, and they all fight for their lives, including Lystra, Elerek and Razhar.
It was interesting to see Razhar's point of view as well in this book, to see what his inner thoughts are, as they all fight for survival in the middle of the desert.
It was hard watching them all suffer on their way to break the curse and possibly free Instanolde. They were faced with many hardships, going through all circles of hell and back, and surviving in the end.
Gotta admit that I cried at the end, my emotions getting the better of me.
Thank you for writing us both of these books, Kaitlyn, hope we will see even more worlds coming from your pen.
In this book we get more information about the curse, how (if) it can be broken. Instanolde deals with the Jarkin invasion, and they all fight for their lives, including Lystra, Elerek and Razhar.
It was interesting to see Razhar's point of view as well in this book, to see what his inner thoughts are, as they all fight for survival in the middle of the desert.
It was hard watching them all suffer on their way to break the curse and possibly free Instanolde. They were faced with many hardships, going through all circles of hell and back, and surviving in the end.
Gotta admit that I cried at the end, my emotions getting the better of me.
Thank you for writing us both of these books, Kaitlyn, hope we will see even more worlds coming from your pen.
August 30, 2025
“I will save Instanolde and Kushan too if I can.” - Lystra
What an ending to an incredible series!
Kaitlyn broke my heart, mended it, only to break it again. I spent so much of this book crying, pacing and yelling.
I've been waiting for this book since March last year after finishing Queen of Shifting Sands and going through that insane cliffhanger. I knew this book was going to be a wild ride but I still wasn't prepared for how heartbreaking this book was going to be.
This book felt like it never stopped, each page held a new surprise and yet was so well-paced and written everything happening at exactly the right moment.
It's 53 chapters and yet you won't notice them passing.
Kaitlyn's writing is so descriptive it brings each moment to life in the readers head and I loved that. Seeing this movie play out as I read the book.
I loved Lystra in the first book and I've been so excited to get more of her. She went through a lot in the first book and that doesn't stop in this one. She proves just how strong she is as she's kept as a prisoner away from her people.
I loved watching Lystra's growth in this book, I definitely want to reread the whole series so that I can see the growth as a whole.
Razhar shocked me in this book, I thought he was a bit of a pain in the last book and hated him at the end of it but in this book, we saw him in a new light which I loved.
He steps up and does his best to protect both Elerek and Lsytra even when they won't speak with him.
Elerek proves in this book what he is willing to do to protect his people. Ready to sacrifice himself if it means they will live, if it means Lystra will live.
I liked this more protective, grown-up side of El. I think he went through the biggest change in this book, he was weak and ready to give up at the end of the book but by the end of this book, he is a changed man.
I adored this book and I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters.
What an ending to an incredible series!
Kaitlyn broke my heart, mended it, only to break it again. I spent so much of this book crying, pacing and yelling.
I've been waiting for this book since March last year after finishing Queen of Shifting Sands and going through that insane cliffhanger. I knew this book was going to be a wild ride but I still wasn't prepared for how heartbreaking this book was going to be.
This book felt like it never stopped, each page held a new surprise and yet was so well-paced and written everything happening at exactly the right moment.
It's 53 chapters and yet you won't notice them passing.
Kaitlyn's writing is so descriptive it brings each moment to life in the readers head and I loved that. Seeing this movie play out as I read the book.
I loved Lystra in the first book and I've been so excited to get more of her. She went through a lot in the first book and that doesn't stop in this one. She proves just how strong she is as she's kept as a prisoner away from her people.
I loved watching Lystra's growth in this book, I definitely want to reread the whole series so that I can see the growth as a whole.
Razhar shocked me in this book, I thought he was a bit of a pain in the last book and hated him at the end of it but in this book, we saw him in a new light which I loved.
He steps up and does his best to protect both Elerek and Lsytra even when they won't speak with him.
Elerek proves in this book what he is willing to do to protect his people. Ready to sacrifice himself if it means they will live, if it means Lystra will live.
I liked this more protective, grown-up side of El. I think he went through the biggest change in this book, he was weak and ready to give up at the end of the book but by the end of this book, he is a changed man.
I adored this book and I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters.
January 13, 2026
Desperate to break the curse that holds so many captive, Lystra, Elerek and Rhazar convince their captors to brave the Sancen desert. In this gripping, emotional sequel to Queen of Shifting Sands, the reader is swept away in the heartbreaking choices that the characters face. The desert is a forge and our heroes emerge bloodied, scarred but also stronger, filled with hope and even to some extent healed. It is a powerful story of sacrifice, choices and redemption.
Personally, I did enjoy the first book more but King of Starcast Skies is a powerful sequel. It is also a very satisfying end to the duology and wraps up all the loose ends. I'm trying to stay spoiler-free, so all I will add is that the pace is slower and the characters more introspective. It is slightly less action packed than the first book (although that changes toward the end) but it is as raw and real. Definitely a duology I will revisit.
Personally, I did enjoy the first book more but King of Starcast Skies is a powerful sequel. It is also a very satisfying end to the duology and wraps up all the loose ends. I'm trying to stay spoiler-free, so all I will add is that the pace is slower and the characters more introspective. It is slightly less action packed than the first book (although that changes toward the end) but it is as raw and real. Definitely a duology I will revisit.
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