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Starside
Not yet published
Expected 24 Mar 26From Alex Aster, the #1
New York Times
bestselling author of the
Lightlark
series, comes her first adult romantasy. Enter the world of
Starside
, where swords wield magic and power is not inherited...but claimed.
Hundreds of years ago, a brutal war split a land in two. Starside is the realm of magic and immortals—the descendants of the gods, living in a power-rich paradise. Stormside is where mortals fight for scraps of that magic.
Every fifty years, the gates between them open, and fifty challengers are allowed to journey across Starside on a deadly quest to access a pool of magic that can heal, grant wealth, or extend life. Everyone has their reasons for entering, but Aris has only vengeance. As a child, a goddess set fire to her village, killing her family. Aris isn’t after the gods’ magic—she’s going to kill them.
First, she must survive the Culling, the king’s deadly competition to choose his fifty challengers. An orphaned blacksmith’s apprentice, Aris doesn’t have the superior weapons of the heirs from the Great Houses. But the greatest swords—ones that contain power—are not inherited or bought, they are claimed, by both sides. And when Aris claims a great sword, it makes her not just a real competitor—but a target.
Getting past the gates is only the beginning. Starside is deadlier than it seems. If the ancient creatures, magic-wielding beasts, and bloodthirsty immortals weren’t dangerous enough, a new peril has even immortals fearing what rises from the ground at night. With a blade most would kill to claim, Aris can’t trust anyone. Especially not Harlan Raker, the merciless and mysterious king’s guard who betrayed her years ago—and who may now be the key to her survival.
But Aris is hiding a secret tied to her family’s death. And when it’s revealed, not even the gods will be able to stop what’s coming…
Hundreds of years ago, a brutal war split a land in two. Starside is the realm of magic and immortals—the descendants of the gods, living in a power-rich paradise. Stormside is where mortals fight for scraps of that magic.
Every fifty years, the gates between them open, and fifty challengers are allowed to journey across Starside on a deadly quest to access a pool of magic that can heal, grant wealth, or extend life. Everyone has their reasons for entering, but Aris has only vengeance. As a child, a goddess set fire to her village, killing her family. Aris isn’t after the gods’ magic—she’s going to kill them.
First, she must survive the Culling, the king’s deadly competition to choose his fifty challengers. An orphaned blacksmith’s apprentice, Aris doesn’t have the superior weapons of the heirs from the Great Houses. But the greatest swords—ones that contain power—are not inherited or bought, they are claimed, by both sides. And when Aris claims a great sword, it makes her not just a real competitor—but a target.
Getting past the gates is only the beginning. Starside is deadlier than it seems. If the ancient creatures, magic-wielding beasts, and bloodthirsty immortals weren’t dangerous enough, a new peril has even immortals fearing what rises from the ground at night. With a blade most would kill to claim, Aris can’t trust anyone. Especially not Harlan Raker, the merciless and mysterious king’s guard who betrayed her years ago—and who may now be the key to her survival.
But Aris is hiding a secret tied to her family’s death. And when it’s revealed, not even the gods will be able to stop what’s coming…
464 pages, Trade Paperback
Expected publication March 24, 2026
19230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 13, 2025
Trial fatigue has been a real struggle of mine lately but this was thoroughly entertaining. Alex Aster needs to continue writing adult romantasy because this was GOOD. Genuinely love the way the last 30 pages of the book made me feel, a great start to a new series. FUN!!
December 11, 2025
Someone please inform the Habsburgs they are no longer the most inbred thing now that this book exists.
This is a DNF (edit: I ended up reading the rest) because even my hate reads have limits. Alex Aster saw Lauren Roberts’ success (in evading a plagiarism lawsuit) and said “bet.”
I’ve truly never read a more poorly written, copy-and-paste book in my entire life. Like, if you’re 13 and have never read anything beyond The Babysitter’s Club before, you might like this. But, if you’ve read even one contemporary YA fantasy-ish book before this, you’ve read this book and I can’t see how you’d enjoy it.
And this is YA—despite Alex Aster stamping an “adult” label on it. I’m sure it has smut in it later (it did and it was baaaad) and they say “fuck” a lot, but if you take out those two things, this is a young YA novel, borderline middle grade.
Nothing in here is original (and don’t give me the “nothing nowadays is original”) people who say that are too chronically online and are simply reading the same tropes over and over and over again. Even things that are inspired by other things are still able to put a twist on it.
This has no twist on ANYTHING. Suzanne Collins (among many authors) needs to sue because the blatant copying in this was insane!
Not to mention we got a “she made a vulgar gesture at him.” Okay, Sarah…
We get the “pretend” make out against a wall scene from The Powerless series. Between these two authors, they’re quite literally copying from each other. The literary incest is rampant.
We get the corset tying scene from Fourth Wing, like almost beat for beat.
We get the two halves of a whole (this time it’s swords, whereas in Harry Potter it’s the two feathers from the same Phoenix for their wands)
We get the fuck in a cave and then the betrayal duel ending scene from Serpent and the Wings of Night.
Aster decided to go a bit farther back and take from George R. R. Martin: our sassy fmc has a dragon and, get this, cannot be burned in a fire. Bet ya never heard that one before, aye. (In writing this I just remembered our fmc is named Aris—Daenerys. Daen-erys. Erys. Aris. I don’t care if you think that’s a stretch; even if it’s unintentional, it just goes to show how unoriginal this all is.)
We got the surly, broody guardian to our orphan character that ends up dying (sorry for the spoiler, but this book sucks so much AND there is zero emotional weight to it, so you’re not missing anything) from Silver Elite—which in itself was a copy-and-paste book!
We’ve got the overarching plot of the “every 50 years there is a competition” from Alex Aster’s OWN books! She got so lazy she plagiarized herself! Quite a feat.
There was some Quicksilver metal magic (ish), some Xaden broody, leans against a wall-ness, the “I’m doing this for my sister and I wear a braid to fight in this competition” Suzanne, get your lawyers on the phone now, some Draco Malfoy school bully character (we’re doing JKR again)…
Romantasy, at this point, is just Charles II of Spain, unable to eat, walk, or reproduce because it has been so inbred that there is ZERO originality to be found.
People…authors… GO OUTSIDE! Talk to new people that aren’t just booktok people reading the same bullshit enemies to lovers books. Read a genre that isn’t the exact one you’re writing about! It doesn’t even have to be non fiction! Read a sci-fi book! Read a horror! Read a love story literary fiction! Read an actual well-written YA fantasy with a MINOR subplot of romance.
You’re all producing inbred romantasy children that have to be spoon fed!
And if you’re the children enjoying it, beyond the 10-mile radius you have blocked yourself within, there are good, action-packed books with yearning and interesting magic systems that aren’t just tropey, elemental garbage written at a 2nd grade level.
I beg you to explore and find them.
Anyways, thanks as always to Edelweiss for being that girl and letting me read an early ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a DNF (edit: I ended up reading the rest) because even my hate reads have limits. Alex Aster saw Lauren Roberts’ success (in evading a plagiarism lawsuit) and said “bet.”
I’ve truly never read a more poorly written, copy-and-paste book in my entire life. Like, if you’re 13 and have never read anything beyond The Babysitter’s Club before, you might like this. But, if you’ve read even one contemporary YA fantasy-ish book before this, you’ve read this book and I can’t see how you’d enjoy it.
And this is YA—despite Alex Aster stamping an “adult” label on it. I’m sure it has smut in it later (it did and it was baaaad) and they say “fuck” a lot, but if you take out those two things, this is a young YA novel, borderline middle grade.
Nothing in here is original (and don’t give me the “nothing nowadays is original”) people who say that are too chronically online and are simply reading the same tropes over and over and over again. Even things that are inspired by other things are still able to put a twist on it.
This has no twist on ANYTHING. Suzanne Collins (among many authors) needs to sue because the blatant copying in this was insane!
Not to mention we got a “she made a vulgar gesture at him.” Okay, Sarah…
We get the “pretend” make out against a wall scene from The Powerless series. Between these two authors, they’re quite literally copying from each other. The literary incest is rampant.
We get the corset tying scene from Fourth Wing, like almost beat for beat.
We get the two halves of a whole (this time it’s swords, whereas in Harry Potter it’s the two feathers from the same Phoenix for their wands)
We get the fuck in a cave and then the betrayal duel ending scene from Serpent and the Wings of Night.
Aster decided to go a bit farther back and take from George R. R. Martin: our sassy fmc has a dragon and, get this, cannot be burned in a fire. Bet ya never heard that one before, aye. (In writing this I just remembered our fmc is named Aris—Daenerys. Daen-erys. Erys. Aris. I don’t care if you think that’s a stretch; even if it’s unintentional, it just goes to show how unoriginal this all is.)
We got the surly, broody guardian to our orphan character that ends up dying (sorry for the spoiler, but this book sucks so much AND there is zero emotional weight to it, so you’re not missing anything) from Silver Elite—which in itself was a copy-and-paste book!
We’ve got the overarching plot of the “every 50 years there is a competition” from Alex Aster’s OWN books! She got so lazy she plagiarized herself! Quite a feat.
There was some Quicksilver metal magic (ish), some Xaden broody, leans against a wall-ness, the “I’m doing this for my sister and I wear a braid to fight in this competition” Suzanne, get your lawyers on the phone now, some Draco Malfoy school bully character (we’re doing JKR again)…
Romantasy, at this point, is just Charles II of Spain, unable to eat, walk, or reproduce because it has been so inbred that there is ZERO originality to be found.
People…authors… GO OUTSIDE! Talk to new people that aren’t just booktok people reading the same bullshit enemies to lovers books. Read a genre that isn’t the exact one you’re writing about! It doesn’t even have to be non fiction! Read a sci-fi book! Read a horror! Read a love story literary fiction! Read an actual well-written YA fantasy with a MINOR subplot of romance.
You’re all producing inbred romantasy children that have to be spoon fed!
And if you’re the children enjoying it, beyond the 10-mile radius you have blocked yourself within, there are good, action-packed books with yearning and interesting magic systems that aren’t just tropey, elemental garbage written at a 2nd grade level.
I beg you to explore and find them.
Anyways, thanks as always to Edelweiss for being that girl and letting me read an early ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
September 19, 2025i'm sorry but this reads like a lightlark fanfic au 💀
September 11, 2025
Sounds like discount Lightlark and Lightlark was already Temu level fantasy.
Want to read
September 13, 2025☆彡pre-release: 13th sept, 25
ALEX OH MY GOSH I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. NO WAY THIS IS COMING OUT ON THE DATE OF MY BIRTHDAY NEXT YEAR. IS THIS A SIGN?! 🥹😭💕
ALEX OH MY GOSH I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. NO WAY THIS IS COMING OUT ON THE DATE OF MY BIRTHDAY NEXT YEAR. IS THIS A SIGN?! 🥹😭💕
September 13, 2025
I don't care what it's about, if Alex writes it I'm reading it.
![Profile Image for ishraq ★ [hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1770240497i%2F172784347._UX200_CR0%2C4%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
Want to read
September 13, 2025Why is this strangely similar to Lightlark….?
November 6, 2025
⋆⊹ ⤿
pre-release
|| ~ releases 03 . 24 . 26
okay alex !! this one's going to be funnn... adult debut, i see you !! somehow, with very little details released so far, i’m already super intrigued…highkey would sell my soul for a sample. the special edition is sooo pretty 🤭
──★ ˙ what we’re expecting 🧷 ̟ !!
✦ details
✨ first person
✨ 500+ pages
✨ magical swords
✦ characters
⚔️ aris + raker ❤️🔥
✦ fantasy romance
✦ power claimed instead of inherited
✦ enemies to lovers
→ can’t be alex aster without enemies to lovers 🤭
✦ realm of magic and immortals
every 50 years, the gates between the gods and mortals open, and 50 mortals are allowed to take part in a deadly quest for magic !!
okay alex !! this one's going to be funnn... adult debut, i see you !! somehow, with very little details released so far, i’m already super intrigued…highkey would sell my soul for a sample. the special edition is sooo pretty 🤭
──★ ˙ what we’re expecting 🧷 ̟ !!
✦ details
✨ first person
✨ 500+ pages
✨ magical swords
✦ characters
⚔️ aris + raker ❤️🔥
✦ fantasy romance
✦ power claimed instead of inherited
✦ enemies to lovers
→ can’t be alex aster without enemies to lovers 🤭
✦ realm of magic and immortals
every 50 years, the gates between the gods and mortals open, and 50 mortals are allowed to take part in a deadly quest for magic !!
Want to read
September 11, 2025Lowkey Miss Aster writes like she’s running out of time!! 4 books in 1 year! 3 in 6 months!!
Want to read
September 12, 2025the fact that mother is just pumping out these books 😍 my goodness alex you be spoiling us 🤗🤗🤗
also... the plot? I'M SAT. gimme the freaking book 🙌
also... the plot? I'M SAT. gimme the freaking book 🙌
September 19, 2025
Ive read the first 100 pages of this 2 days prior to announcement (I was at the news release “birthday party”) and OMGGGG I love it so far!!!
Want to read
December 3, 2025Isla and Grim will return in Avengers: Doomsday
November 30, 2025
The synopsis reads like an inbreeding program between ToG and Lightlark tbh.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Want to read
September 14, 2025im… intrigued I personally never loved her writing but maybe this will change my mind?
update: the art officially HAS convinced me to read this book bc its so pretty
update: the art officially HAS convinced me to read this book bc its so pretty
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
First off, I just want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Alex Aster and Avon Books/HarperCollins for sending me an arc of this book!! I've been looking forward to the release of Starside since Alex announced it. It's my most anticipated release of this year, and let me tell y'all, it did NOT disappoint!
I know that when Alex first shared the synopsis for Starside, a lot of people were afraid it'd basically be Lightlark fanfiction. I can tell you with dead certainty that it is not.
Starside is such a unique story! It's been so long since I've read a quest-based fantasy, and now I'm in the mood to read more, although I know it won't cure my hangover from this book.
I loved the characters so much! The FMC, Aris, is definitely my favorite (she's honestly one of my favorite fictional characters ever), which surprises me since usually I end up loving a side character more. I also adore Harlan Raker (I blushed so many times while reading his dialogue haha) and can't wait to see how his relationship with Aris evolves throughout the series, especially considering the ending of Starside. I know Alex's books are always filled with insane twists towards the end, but I was not expecting THAT! Aris and Harlan Raker are going to be the best enemies-to-lovers duo ever, I'm calling it right now!
As for the plot, I ate it up!! A lot of parts, especially the beginning, reminded me of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire — you've got lethal challenges, a new Golden Trio, and an even more obnoxious version of Draco Malfoy + his gang of friends.
I was also reminded of Fourth Wing for a few reasons: 1. There's bonding between dragons and riders; 2. When Aris claims her sword, there's a complete flip in the power hierarchy, similar to when Violet bonded with Tairn and Andarna; and 3. NO ONE is safe, not even the main characters. Alex warned us that Starside is more brutal than Lightlark, and she isn't kidding! I was constantly on the edge of my seat any time Aris ran into trouble. (Side note: I think she and Violet would be best friends if they ever met haha).
So, if you love Goblet of Fire, Fourth Wing, Hunger Games, or Red Queen — or if you love enemies-to-lovers, dragons, revenge quests, feminine rage, and sword magic — you should pre-order Starside now!
Also, it's perfect if you're a fan of steamy, corset-ripping, saying "I hate you" while getting it on romance 🤭
All in all, I think Starside may be one of the best books I've ever read. I'm so excited to see how the rest of the series plays out!
I know that when Alex first shared the synopsis for Starside, a lot of people were afraid it'd basically be Lightlark fanfiction. I can tell you with dead certainty that it is not.
Starside is such a unique story! It's been so long since I've read a quest-based fantasy, and now I'm in the mood to read more, although I know it won't cure my hangover from this book.
I loved the characters so much! The FMC, Aris, is definitely my favorite (she's honestly one of my favorite fictional characters ever), which surprises me since usually I end up loving a side character more. I also adore Harlan Raker (I blushed so many times while reading his dialogue haha) and can't wait to see how his relationship with Aris evolves throughout the series, especially considering the ending of Starside. I know Alex's books are always filled with insane twists towards the end, but I was not expecting THAT! Aris and Harlan Raker are going to be the best enemies-to-lovers duo ever, I'm calling it right now!
As for the plot, I ate it up!! A lot of parts, especially the beginning, reminded me of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire — you've got lethal challenges, a new Golden Trio, and an even more obnoxious version of Draco Malfoy + his gang of friends.
I was also reminded of Fourth Wing for a few reasons: 1. There's bonding between dragons and riders; 2. When Aris claims her sword, there's a complete flip in the power hierarchy, similar to when Violet bonded with Tairn and Andarna; and 3. NO ONE is safe, not even the main characters. Alex warned us that Starside is more brutal than Lightlark, and she isn't kidding! I was constantly on the edge of my seat any time Aris ran into trouble. (Side note: I think she and Violet would be best friends if they ever met haha).
So, if you love Goblet of Fire, Fourth Wing, Hunger Games, or Red Queen — or if you love enemies-to-lovers, dragons, revenge quests, feminine rage, and sword magic — you should pre-order Starside now!
Also, it's perfect if you're a fan of steamy, corset-ripping, saying "I hate you" while getting it on romance 🤭
All in all, I think Starside may be one of the best books I've ever read. I'm so excited to see how the rest of the series plays out!
January 9, 2026
I loved Starside — and I’m honestly obsessed with Alex writing adult romantasy. 🔥
The world-building pulled me in straight away: gods, immortals, mortals and a deadly quest every fifty years? Say less.
This is proper enemies to lovers. Not “we mildly dislike each other” — real betrayal, real tension. And I loved that even by the end, there’s still that edge of are we still enemies? The slow burn absolutely wrecked me in the best way.
Aris was such a great main character. Watching her go from underestimated blacksmith’s apprentice to someone powerful and dangerous was so satisfying, and I loved how the magic felt earned, not handed to her.
And Harlan… listen. I KNOW I shouldn’t be drawn to him. I knew it the whole time. Did it stop me? Absolutely not. 🥵
He’s ruthless, mysterious, and walking red-flag energy — and I was fully invested anyway. Their chemistry had me holding my breath more than once.
Sharp, tense, magical, and addictive. Loved it. Need more immediately. Can’t wait for book 2, especially after that ending broke me! 💔
The world-building pulled me in straight away: gods, immortals, mortals and a deadly quest every fifty years? Say less.
This is proper enemies to lovers. Not “we mildly dislike each other” — real betrayal, real tension. And I loved that even by the end, there’s still that edge of are we still enemies? The slow burn absolutely wrecked me in the best way.
Aris was such a great main character. Watching her go from underestimated blacksmith’s apprentice to someone powerful and dangerous was so satisfying, and I loved how the magic felt earned, not handed to her.
And Harlan… listen. I KNOW I shouldn’t be drawn to him. I knew it the whole time. Did it stop me? Absolutely not. 🥵
He’s ruthless, mysterious, and walking red-flag energy — and I was fully invested anyway. Their chemistry had me holding my breath more than once.
Sharp, tense, magical, and addictive. Loved it. Need more immediately. Can’t wait for book 2, especially after that ending broke me! 💔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
This was so fun. A true enemies to lovers with a broody MMC who wants nothing to do with her. Also, the magic in this book is so cool. The world is beautiful and full of so many magical and whimsical creatures, there are deadly trials, and some really lovable side characters/found family. I really enjoyed this one! It’s an adult Romantasy, but really only one spicy scene. So good!
Want to read
September 21, 2025Did I put this on my want to read because an illustrator I love made an illustration for it? Yep, proud of it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.25 stars
I'm going to be honest... I read the first 100 pages and was worried. There was absolutely promise, but I felt like the start of the book hit the ground SPRINTING and I was left playing catch up bc I wasn't invested in any of the characters. But it gets better. And then better yet.
You can tell that Aster's strength is in her romance because as soon as Raker and Aris start to actually interact, the story hits its stride. Things smooth out and get so much more fun. Raker is a quiet, GRUMPY as hell head knight and I ate his character UP. And guys, it's ACTUALLY a mf slow burn!!!
Once we got into the meat of the story I began to love Starside and all its magical (and deadly) landscapes, and even the side characters suddenly had more depth and I was excited to see more of them. I do wish the magic was more fleshed out, but nonetheless I found it very unique and interesting. There was also some fun twists, especially in the last chunks that left me on such a high!
However, this isn't perfect even after it hits its stride. I found several parts repeatitive, a couple scenes too unbelievable, and there's a certain bond that forms way too quick and felt like it was only there bc it was convenient for the plot later (I was particularly disappointed in that one). But... the romance absolutely carried this one for me. It was by far this book's biggest strength, and I mean it was good enough for me to forgive some of its shortcomings.
Almost as soon as Raker is officially inducted into the plot, I started GRINNING as I read it. Then kicking my feet. Then full on whisper squealing into my hands. At one point I put the book down for a second to get a drink and was just... maniacally giggling to myself?? So if you take away anything from this review: Read this one for the "plot" (ie: Raker), and I don't think you'll be disappointed. I wasn’t🤭
I'm going to be honest... I read the first 100 pages and was worried. There was absolutely promise, but I felt like the start of the book hit the ground SPRINTING and I was left playing catch up bc I wasn't invested in any of the characters. But it gets better. And then better yet.
You can tell that Aster's strength is in her romance because as soon as Raker and Aris start to actually interact, the story hits its stride. Things smooth out and get so much more fun. Raker is a quiet, GRUMPY as hell head knight and I ate his character UP. And guys, it's ACTUALLY a mf slow burn!!!
Once we got into the meat of the story I began to love Starside and all its magical (and deadly) landscapes, and even the side characters suddenly had more depth and I was excited to see more of them. I do wish the magic was more fleshed out, but nonetheless I found it very unique and interesting. There was also some fun twists, especially in the last chunks that left me on such a high!
However, this isn't perfect even after it hits its stride. I found several parts repeatitive, a couple scenes too unbelievable, and there's a certain bond that forms way too quick and felt like it was only there bc it was convenient for the plot later (I was particularly disappointed in that one). But... the romance absolutely carried this one for me. It was by far this book's biggest strength, and I mean it was good enough for me to forgive some of its shortcomings.
Almost as soon as Raker is officially inducted into the plot, I started GRINNING as I read it. Then kicking my feet. Then full on whisper squealing into my hands. At one point I put the book down for a second to get a drink and was just... maniacally giggling to myself?? So if you take away anything from this review: Read this one for the "plot" (ie: Raker), and I don't think you'll be disappointed. I wasn’t🤭
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
✨🩶⚔️ ARC Review: Starside by Alex Aster ⚔️🩶✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Release Date: March 31, 2026
⚔️ Summary: Hundreds of years ago, a brutal war split a land in two: Starside (magic and immortals) and Stormside (mortals). Every fifty years, the gates open and fifty challengers compete in a deadly quest for magic, but Aris isn't after the gods' magic—she's going to kill them for destroying her village and family. Armed with a powerful claimed sword, she must survive ancient creatures, bloodthirsty immortals, and Harlan Raker, the merciless king's guard who betrayed her years ago—and who may now be the key to her survival.
🩶 What I Loved:
✨ The world-building! So many magical creatures and Starside sounds like an endless magical paradise—I need to know more!
✨ Aris is such a fierce and powerful FMC! Her determination to get revenge is unmatched and I loved every second of her journey!
✨ Raker is such a powerful MMC with major black cat vibes! 🖤
✨ This is a TRUE enemies to lovers—you could feel the resentment Aris has for Raker!
✨ The character development! Watching both of them evolve throughout the story was everything!
✨ Action-packed from start to finish! I couldn't put it down!
🐦🔥 Tropes:
🗡️ Enemies to Lovers
🗡️ Magical Swords
🗡️ Slow Burn
🗡️ Forced Proximity
🗡️ Magical Creatures
🗡️ Deadly Quest
🗡️ “Who did this to you?”
Alex Aster, HOW DARE YOU end the book like this?! 😭 I need the next one ASAP! This book absolutely destroyed me!
Thank you so much Alex Aster and Avon Books for this ARC! I still can't believe I got 1 of the 100 physical ARCs! 🩶⚔️✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Release Date: March 31, 2026
⚔️ Summary: Hundreds of years ago, a brutal war split a land in two: Starside (magic and immortals) and Stormside (mortals). Every fifty years, the gates open and fifty challengers compete in a deadly quest for magic, but Aris isn't after the gods' magic—she's going to kill them for destroying her village and family. Armed with a powerful claimed sword, she must survive ancient creatures, bloodthirsty immortals, and Harlan Raker, the merciless king's guard who betrayed her years ago—and who may now be the key to her survival.
🩶 What I Loved:
✨ The world-building! So many magical creatures and Starside sounds like an endless magical paradise—I need to know more!
✨ Aris is such a fierce and powerful FMC! Her determination to get revenge is unmatched and I loved every second of her journey!
✨ Raker is such a powerful MMC with major black cat vibes! 🖤
✨ This is a TRUE enemies to lovers—you could feel the resentment Aris has for Raker!
✨ The character development! Watching both of them evolve throughout the story was everything!
✨ Action-packed from start to finish! I couldn't put it down!
🐦🔥 Tropes:
🗡️ Enemies to Lovers
🗡️ Magical Swords
🗡️ Slow Burn
🗡️ Forced Proximity
🗡️ Magical Creatures
🗡️ Deadly Quest
🗡️ “Who did this to you?”
Alex Aster, HOW DARE YOU end the book like this?! 😭 I need the next one ASAP! This book absolutely destroyed me!
Thank you so much Alex Aster and Avon Books for this ARC! I still can't believe I got 1 of the 100 physical ARCs! 🩶⚔️✨
November 2, 2025
Do I have this already preordered on Barnes and Noble & Waterstones? ✅
Did I just finish the first 100 pages? ✅✅
Why did it take me so long to finish the 100 pages? Well, I was afraid of this exact feeling that I have right now. And that feeling is of longing and desperation for the whole book now 🫠
If you’re on the fence about this book, I’d say give it a shot! It’s fast paced, has a fun “magic” system involving swords, interesting set of characters, and has a blending of worlds setting to it ✨
In an alternate universe of Lightlark, I’d like to think that Aris reminds me of a young Oro, and Harlan is a Grim without Isla in his world. Teehee 🤭 I very much look forward to Aris and Harlan’s shenanigans!
So while I curl up and hibernate, waiting for Starside to release, just a huge thank you to Alex and her publishing and marketing team for allowing me to attend the reveal party and for the 100 page sample!! 🥹❤️
Did I just finish the first 100 pages? ✅✅
Why did it take me so long to finish the 100 pages? Well, I was afraid of this exact feeling that I have right now. And that feeling is of longing and desperation for the whole book now 🫠
If you’re on the fence about this book, I’d say give it a shot! It’s fast paced, has a fun “magic” system involving swords, interesting set of characters, and has a blending of worlds setting to it ✨
In an alternate universe of Lightlark, I’d like to think that Aris reminds me of a young Oro, and Harlan is a Grim without Isla in his world. Teehee 🤭 I very much look forward to Aris and Harlan’s shenanigans!
So while I curl up and hibernate, waiting for Starside to release, just a huge thank you to Alex and her publishing and marketing team for allowing me to attend the reveal party and for the 100 page sample!! 🥹❤️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was completely consumed by Starside, I couldn't put it down! Aris is so strong and determined, from the second she is introduced you are cheering for her every single step of the way. She is set on revenge but the pureness in her heart shines through throughout the Challenge. Along the way she meets some friends, foes and everything in between. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time wondering what would happen next, and to me that is the makings of a wonderful story.
The entire story is single POV...although I think there is a bonus chapter in Harlan's POV somewhere... I would have traded my first born for a glimpse into his mind part way through the book...for reasons.
Now I will just casually be waiting for Stormside...for I don't know how long, but I know it will be worth the wait.
The entire story is single POV...although I think there is a bonus chapter in Harlan's POV somewhere... I would have traded my first born for a glimpse into his mind part way through the book...for reasons.
Now I will just casually be waiting for Stormside...for I don't know how long, but I know it will be worth the wait.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I absolutely devoured this book!
From the very first page to the last, I was completely consumed by the story and its gripping writing style. Alex truly never disappoints. This is enemies to lovers done right, a deliciously slow burn that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The cast of characters is layered and complex, and I loved discovering how each of their stories intertwined. At every turn, I found myself questioning who could be trusted, with twists that kept me constantly guessing. While the pacing takes a moment to build, the payoff is more than worth it, delivering a jaw dropping, mind blowing ending I never saw coming. I closed this book in shock and now I am desperately counting down the days until book two.
Thank you so much to Avon Publishing and Alex Aster for an early copy in exchange for my honest review. #29ARC
From the very first page to the last, I was completely consumed by the story and its gripping writing style. Alex truly never disappoints. This is enemies to lovers done right, a deliciously slow burn that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The cast of characters is layered and complex, and I loved discovering how each of their stories intertwined. At every turn, I found myself questioning who could be trusted, with twists that kept me constantly guessing. While the pacing takes a moment to build, the payoff is more than worth it, delivering a jaw dropping, mind blowing ending I never saw coming. I closed this book in shock and now I am desperately counting down the days until book two.
Thank you so much to Avon Publishing and Alex Aster for an early copy in exchange for my honest review. #29ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
FIRST 150 PAGES REVIEW! X Spoilers!
Oh my god?!! Wow where to begin? A lot of people were giving this book a lot of negative feedback due to some similarities with Lightlark but can I just say it’s way better?!! It’s different in a good way! The beginning is slow but quickly it becomes more and more interesting and after page 50 it quickly became AMAZING! not to say before that page it wasn’t great but wow! This book shows how much she truly grew as an author and first person RULES!!!! I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE BOOK!!! I even drew fan art of the main characters in excitement! Definitely her best so far!!!!!
Oh my god?!! Wow where to begin? A lot of people were giving this book a lot of negative feedback due to some similarities with Lightlark but can I just say it’s way better?!! It’s different in a good way! The beginning is slow but quickly it becomes more and more interesting and after page 50 it quickly became AMAZING! not to say before that page it wasn’t great but wow! This book shows how much she truly grew as an author and first person RULES!!!! I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE BOOK!!! I even drew fan art of the main characters in excitement! Definitely her best so far!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received the first six chapters of the book. The magic system is unique, utilizing a ranking system based on metals that also appears to channel magic. However, the character motivations and the trial game setting feel quite familiar. The main character is likable, making her easy to root for, but the identity of the primary love interest is quite predictable. Additionally, the story seems to set up multiple villains, including those within the game, the king, and their gods. It will be interesting to see where the story leads.
September 14, 2025
Here’s to hoping there’s no love triangle.
To anyone who says this sounds like Lightlark—did we read the same description? The only similarity is the every 50 years, and that just seems like the setup? This is a quest with magical swords in a world divided… nothing like Lightlark at all. For all we know, this could be a spin-off.
As a huge Lightlark fan, I hope this is similar, but to me it couldn’t sound more different.
AUTOMATIC BUY. BEING AN ALEX ASTER MEANS BEING FED REGULARLY
To anyone who says this sounds like Lightlark—did we read the same description? The only similarity is the every 50 years, and that just seems like the setup? This is a quest with magical swords in a world divided… nothing like Lightlark at all. For all we know, this could be a spin-off.
As a huge Lightlark fan, I hope this is similar, but to me it couldn’t sound more different.
AUTOMATIC BUY. BEING AN ALEX ASTER MEANS BEING FED REGULARLY
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have CHILLS — this book was absolutely PHENOMENAL!! Alex was BORN to write adult romantasy and this is EASILY the best book she’s ever written.
The array of emotions I experienced during this journey was unbelievable. From beginning to end, Aris’ story had me locked in. The trials were unique, the true enemies-to-lovers romance was done perfectly, and the plot twists had my jaw on the floor.
If I’m honest, I’m ready for an IMMEDIATE reread (& book two) — 6 stars, no notes.
The array of emotions I experienced during this journey was unbelievable. From beginning to end, Aris’ story had me locked in. The trials were unique, the true enemies-to-lovers romance was done perfectly, and the plot twists had my jaw on the floor.
If I’m honest, I’m ready for an IMMEDIATE reread (& book two) — 6 stars, no notes.
September 13, 2025
If Alex Aster writes it, I buy it. The care and passion she puts into her books is clear. Now we know why she’s been writing 7 days a week at 6am. The fact she’s been writing this one for years makes me really excited.
I would say get some rest Alex Aster, but you are FEEDING us, and I’m hungry for every bite.
I would say get some rest Alex Aster, but you are FEEDING us, and I’m hungry for every bite.
September 14, 2025
THE IDEA OF A QUEST IS SO COOL. We haven’t had many quests in romantasy (that I know of). Good, because I’m tiring of trials
My predictions:
-this will be nothing like Lightlark, and the 50 years for the gates thing is just a minor detail
-Aris will be a badass and more likable character than Isla
-Raker will be my next book boyfriend
My predictions:
-this will be nothing like Lightlark, and the 50 years for the gates thing is just a minor detail
-Aris will be a badass and more likable character than Isla
-Raker will be my next book boyfriend
Review of advance copy received from Author
“ my sword doesn’t need to be lighter. I just need to be strong enough to carry it “ ⭐️⚔️⭐️⚔️⭐️⚔️⭐️
LAST 30 PAGES MADE ME SCREEEAM ACTUALLY!!!! 4.8⭐️
90% enemies 10% lovers just how I like it… so thankful I received this arc it was action packed, so much angst, full of rage and revenge. REAL enemies shit. Need book 2 NOW
LAST 30 PAGES MADE ME SCREEEAM ACTUALLY!!!! 4.8⭐️
90% enemies 10% lovers just how I like it… so thankful I received this arc it was action packed, so much angst, full of rage and revenge. REAL enemies shit. Need book 2 NOW
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