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The Vale of Stars #0.5
The City of Dreams
City of Dreams? More like a nightmare.
When Ariella, reluctant heir and failed witch, is banished to the bustling city of Pyscoria, she dreads being pulled into the power games of the Blood. She knows it's only a matter of time until someone discovers the secret of her missing magic. Even worse, she'll have to mingle.
When help comes from an unexpected quarter, Ariella discovers the first real family she's ever known. And when her friendship with Prell blossoms into something more, Ariella begins to discover the keys to unlocking her magic.
But the Blood are not known for their patience. When her refuge is threatened, Ariella will need to make a choice: Does she have the strength to defy centuries of expectation, or will she lose the only love she's ever known?
A prequel novella, The City of Dreams, is a story of first love, blossoming magic and the power of choices. In a world of Stars and Blood, Ariella must confront her destiny - and the sacrifices it demands.
When Ariella, reluctant heir and failed witch, is banished to the bustling city of Pyscoria, she dreads being pulled into the power games of the Blood. She knows it's only a matter of time until someone discovers the secret of her missing magic. Even worse, she'll have to mingle.
When help comes from an unexpected quarter, Ariella discovers the first real family she's ever known. And when her friendship with Prell blossoms into something more, Ariella begins to discover the keys to unlocking her magic.
But the Blood are not known for their patience. When her refuge is threatened, Ariella will need to make a choice: Does she have the strength to defy centuries of expectation, or will she lose the only love she's ever known?
A prequel novella, The City of Dreams, is a story of first love, blossoming magic and the power of choices. In a world of Stars and Blood, Ariella must confront her destiny - and the sacrifices it demands.
77 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2017
44 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Griffiths
5 books28 followersHailey writes stories about love and magic (which are sometimes the same thing) from a comfy chair in Berlin. The cat keeps watch to make sure she’s doing it right.
If she’s not writing, you can probably find her reading under a pile of snacks, or, on the rare occasions she’s forced outdoors, trying to find the best burger in Berlin.
If she’s not writing, you can probably find her reading under a pile of snacks, or, on the rare occasions she’s forced outdoors, trying to find the best burger in Berlin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 16, 2018
DID SOMEONE SAY MAGIC???
Wonderfully written, easy to follow, smooth flowing and captivating read with twists and turns and surprises that keep you on your toes. Great characters and scenes so realistic you can almost see it. Fantastic storyline, I pulled right in and couldn't put it down until the end. Haley did an incredible job bringing this read to life.
Wonderfully written, easy to follow, smooth flowing and captivating read with twists and turns and surprises that keep you on your toes. Great characters and scenes so realistic you can almost see it. Fantastic storyline, I pulled right in and couldn't put it down until the end. Haley did an incredible job bringing this read to life.
April 13, 2018
The world building was great, not too much & there's still elements of mystery to the story that the author can explore. I love the writing, it felt like the story became alive. Recommended!
October 14, 2018
The City Of Dreams
Hailey Griffiths
(A Vale Of Stars Novella)
Is a 70ish page long Novella about a young woman called Ariella, who has been sent to Pyscoria, City Of Dreams as punishment by her mother Ellentyre.
She stay's with a woman named Yora and her son Prell; she begins to grow close with the two and helping in Yora's allotment, and falling in love with Prell.
Though she is from a family called the Grace's, who supposedly have power. Ariella is supposed to get betrothed to someone of the Synod's choosing, (a group of people who are in charge I think.) thus leaving her wanting control of her life.
My Opinion.
There is definitely plenty of room for this world to grow, we don't exactly know who the Synod is, why her mother Ellentyre is a bitch, and where and how Ariella controls her powers.
It seams to me that this will grow into a beautiful magical world, and I cannot wait till a full story comes.
Not a bad start.
What I didn't like/bothered me firstly, was it seams like instant love between Ariella and Prell, and I don't mid that but it's far too much cutsie for my liking; secondly Ariella was too childish and crumbles far to easy, she needs a backbone or at least a kick up the bum.
4/5*
Hailey Griffiths
(A Vale Of Stars Novella)
Is a 70ish page long Novella about a young woman called Ariella, who has been sent to Pyscoria, City Of Dreams as punishment by her mother Ellentyre.
She stay's with a woman named Yora and her son Prell; she begins to grow close with the two and helping in Yora's allotment, and falling in love with Prell.
Though she is from a family called the Grace's, who supposedly have power. Ariella is supposed to get betrothed to someone of the Synod's choosing, (a group of people who are in charge I think.) thus leaving her wanting control of her life.
My Opinion.
There is definitely plenty of room for this world to grow, we don't exactly know who the Synod is, why her mother Ellentyre is a bitch, and where and how Ariella controls her powers.
It seams to me that this will grow into a beautiful magical world, and I cannot wait till a full story comes.
Not a bad start.
What I didn't like/bothered me firstly, was it seams like instant love between Ariella and Prell, and I don't mid that but it's far too much cutsie for my liking; secondly Ariella was too childish and crumbles far to easy, she needs a backbone or at least a kick up the bum.
4/5*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2019
Ariella, the Grace in waiting, has been sent to Pyscoria, a city set across several islands outside the Everwood, for further training. Happenstance finds her housed with Yora and Prell, who seem to understand her better than she does. Although the city is beautiful, there is an undercurrent of hatred Ariella must navigate.
This prequel has definitely whetted my appetite for reading more of the stories set in this world.
This prequel has definitely whetted my appetite for reading more of the stories set in this world.
January 20, 2018
This was a fantastic short read! Fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo will enjoy this enchanting tale--a glimpse into a world of magic, politics, and expectations. Griffiths is amazingly talented and I cannot wait until the debut of The Forest of Fate so I can jump back into this world. Griffiths is a name I can see quickly catching on so take note, the adventure is about to begin!
December 25, 2017
-I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
The City of Dreams, by Hailey Griffiths, is a young adult fantasy about finding where you belong, and that family is family, no matter what society says.
Because of her disobedience, Ariella was banished to the City of Dreams, where she will live out her banishment with a woman named Yora, and her son, Prell. Ariella soon finds herself in her newfound home, and with her blossoming love with Prell, she becomes content. Even so, a more sinister monster lurks within the walls, and with the arrogance brimming within the walls, Ariella soon finds herself a political pawn with a destiny she never asked for. In this fantasy, Griffiths illustrates how precious innocence is in a world filled with danger.
I loved Prell and Ariella’s relationship. When I first saw them, I was a bit skeptical, but after a while, I did grow fond of them. I liked reading about Yora as well, but what won me over was how motherly she was towards Ariella. For a time, it really did feel like they were family; they kept each other safe, and that’s all that mattered. I was shocked at some of the actions they took to keep Ariella safe; after all, murder is murder. But then of course, corruption ran within the walls of the city, so I can’t really judge them. If I was in the same situation, I probably would’ve done the same thing.
Another thing that Griffiths does incredibly well is show the differences between the dream and cruel, earth-shattering reality. The City of Dreams really does sound intriguing, as does the powers of a Grace. Even so, manipulation, arrogance, and poverty are stacked within the city; it’s as if I’m reading a section of America’s Gilded Age all over again. The Rose Quarter was another thing that was beautifully done; it was made up of royal families who swore loyalty to the Graces. Even so, they shunned Yora and Prell, though Ariella knew they were better than anyone else.
I did wish there were more detail regarding the city; there were certain scenes that I fell in love with, scenes that gave me my imagination. The ending was rather abrupt as well, but it does align with Prell’s beliefs and attitudes.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. Ariella’s story shows just how far people are wiling to go for their families, even if they have to kill. This young adult fantasy details the stark contrasts between dreams and realities, but that even so, innocence can still blossom. As such, I would give this book a rating of a 3.9 out of 5.0 stars, and would recommend it to those who fell in love with Through a Dark Glass by Barb Hendee, and Scribes by James Wolanyk.
The City of Dreams, by Hailey Griffiths, is a young adult fantasy about finding where you belong, and that family is family, no matter what society says.
Because of her disobedience, Ariella was banished to the City of Dreams, where she will live out her banishment with a woman named Yora, and her son, Prell. Ariella soon finds herself in her newfound home, and with her blossoming love with Prell, she becomes content. Even so, a more sinister monster lurks within the walls, and with the arrogance brimming within the walls, Ariella soon finds herself a political pawn with a destiny she never asked for. In this fantasy, Griffiths illustrates how precious innocence is in a world filled with danger.
I loved Prell and Ariella’s relationship. When I first saw them, I was a bit skeptical, but after a while, I did grow fond of them. I liked reading about Yora as well, but what won me over was how motherly she was towards Ariella. For a time, it really did feel like they were family; they kept each other safe, and that’s all that mattered. I was shocked at some of the actions they took to keep Ariella safe; after all, murder is murder. But then of course, corruption ran within the walls of the city, so I can’t really judge them. If I was in the same situation, I probably would’ve done the same thing.
Another thing that Griffiths does incredibly well is show the differences between the dream and cruel, earth-shattering reality. The City of Dreams really does sound intriguing, as does the powers of a Grace. Even so, manipulation, arrogance, and poverty are stacked within the city; it’s as if I’m reading a section of America’s Gilded Age all over again. The Rose Quarter was another thing that was beautifully done; it was made up of royal families who swore loyalty to the Graces. Even so, they shunned Yora and Prell, though Ariella knew they were better than anyone else.
I did wish there were more detail regarding the city; there were certain scenes that I fell in love with, scenes that gave me my imagination. The ending was rather abrupt as well, but it does align with Prell’s beliefs and attitudes.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. Ariella’s story shows just how far people are wiling to go for their families, even if they have to kill. This young adult fantasy details the stark contrasts between dreams and realities, but that even so, innocence can still blossom. As such, I would give this book a rating of a 3.9 out of 5.0 stars, and would recommend it to those who fell in love with Through a Dark Glass by Barb Hendee, and Scribes by James Wolanyk.
December 18, 2018
This is a beautifully written YA fantasy.
There is romance (a bit quick off the mark, but hey, it's a short story). There's also a strong theme of political ambitions and tensions between ancient bloodlines - notably Ariella's hereditary position of being a "Grace" - someone with magical abilities indicated by her distinctive red hair. In fact there's quite a lot going on under the surface of such a short read.
The fantasy world described is fresh and fascinating, although I did feel like I was missing something. Certain descriptions don't always lead you to be sure what kind of fantasy world it is (Medieval vs Regency), and the topic of what a Grace is doesn't really come up until quite a way in. If I'd know a bit more earlier on, thinks would have felt a bit more comfortable. I'm still a little hazy on the Stars/Graces/Synod setup, which hopefully would be explained more in the full novels.
Nit-picks aside, the writing is really very good, and it makes for a nice short story within the world of the Vale of the Stars. It's certainly something I'd follow up on.
There is romance (a bit quick off the mark, but hey, it's a short story). There's also a strong theme of political ambitions and tensions between ancient bloodlines - notably Ariella's hereditary position of being a "Grace" - someone with magical abilities indicated by her distinctive red hair. In fact there's quite a lot going on under the surface of such a short read.
The fantasy world described is fresh and fascinating, although I did feel like I was missing something. Certain descriptions don't always lead you to be sure what kind of fantasy world it is (Medieval vs Regency), and the topic of what a Grace is doesn't really come up until quite a way in. If I'd know a bit more earlier on, thinks would have felt a bit more comfortable. I'm still a little hazy on the Stars/Graces/Synod setup, which hopefully would be explained more in the full novels.
Nit-picks aside, the writing is really very good, and it makes for a nice short story within the world of the Vale of the Stars. It's certainly something I'd follow up on.
March 22, 2018
I liked this book very much. I felt for Ariella in the way her mother had abused her both mentally and physically. Luckily for her the mayor was gone when she arrived and a kind woman and her son took her in. This woman showed her love she never got from her mother and became a “mom” she could ask questions to. Because of Yora’s kindness and helpfulness in showing Ariella how to tend plants she discovered the magic inside of her which came to her aid in the closing moments of the book.
I believe that young and old alike will enjoy this story. The idea that there is a elite group of people who are better than others is unfortunately still prevalent in our society as well as others. It will take a lot of effort to debunk this false doctrine.
I believe that young and old alike will enjoy this story. The idea that there is a elite group of people who are better than others is unfortunately still prevalent in our society as well as others. It will take a lot of effort to debunk this false doctrine.
June 2, 2020
A litte taste of a what is expected
The Prequel Novella begins with Arielle who arrives in a town called Psycoria. We learn she's Grace in waiting someone with a magical ability that's highly respected but also treated harshly by her mother and those in power. While she stays with a humbly and loving family she gains more confidence and her ability starts to awaken unknownly to her. But something happens that's changes her fate. Which I guess we'll find out more in the rest of the series. I liked that the author didn't give us to much world building and info dumping in the novella only tints of it. But I would've liked more info on her ability and the romance to be more slowed down between Arielle and Prell.
The Prequel Novella begins with Arielle who arrives in a town called Psycoria. We learn she's Grace in waiting someone with a magical ability that's highly respected but also treated harshly by her mother and those in power. While she stays with a humbly and loving family she gains more confidence and her ability starts to awaken unknownly to her. But something happens that's changes her fate. Which I guess we'll find out more in the rest of the series. I liked that the author didn't give us to much world building and info dumping in the novella only tints of it. But I would've liked more info on her ability and the romance to be more slowed down between Arielle and Prell.
December 19, 2017
This is an absolutely enchanting read. From the get go you are drawn into the world of Ariella. The author weaves the characters and environment in such a way that you walk, see and feel with them. There is an intriguing juxtaposition between the two main characters. Both young, but one has been forged by a tough upbringing, while the other is filled with youthful enthusiasm and childlike joy.
Crumbs of information are thrown the readers way in the opening chapters that make you willing and eager to follow and find out more about what is clearly going to be a great battle of good against evil.
I found very little to criticise! Can't wait for more from this promising young writer.
Crumbs of information are thrown the readers way in the opening chapters that make you willing and eager to follow and find out more about what is clearly going to be a great battle of good against evil.
I found very little to criticise! Can't wait for more from this promising young writer.
September 5, 2018
4.5 stars
Dammit, I think I might have just fallen for yet another author this year because this short story (novel preview? ficlet?) was so entertaining. Yeah, there were a few typos and nitpick stuff (I am so rarely >90% satisfied with a book). On the other hand, it was adorable and heartwarming and made me smile so it did the trick as a good pick-me-up read. Now I’m gonna have to see if there’s more books set in the same universe.
Edit: This is the only book set in this universe so far and now I have the sads. Welp. Guess I have a new author to follow in case she writes more books!
Dammit, I think I might have just fallen for yet another author this year because this short story (novel preview? ficlet?) was so entertaining. Yeah, there were a few typos and nitpick stuff (I am so rarely >90% satisfied with a book). On the other hand, it was adorable and heartwarming and made me smile so it did the trick as a good pick-me-up read. Now I’m gonna have to see if there’s more books set in the same universe.
Edit: This is the only book set in this universe so far and now I have the sads. Welp. Guess I have a new author to follow in case she writes more books!
April 8, 2024
2.75 ⭐️
I loved the fairytale vibes of this book and I liked the plot but it just fell super flat for me. I felt liked I missed parts of the story like I had skipped pages or something. But I liked the world this book was set in and the 2 main characters were really cute but extremly immature that also made me like this book less sadly.
I do think I will continue this series but this is def not a good start to keep your readers engaged.
I did like how she found her powers and how she killed the mayor because he sounded terrible!!
I loved the fairytale vibes of this book and I liked the plot but it just fell super flat for me. I felt liked I missed parts of the story like I had skipped pages or something. But I liked the world this book was set in and the 2 main characters were really cute but extremly immature that also made me like this book less sadly.
I do think I will continue this series but this is def not a good start to keep your readers engaged.
I did like how she found her powers and how she killed the mayor because he sounded terrible!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2018
Magic, Magic everywhere, or not. This book is about a young girl who was raised by an unloving mother to be royalty. Banished to a lower island, Ariella thinks she is headed for a terrible adventure. However, she finds love and acceptance instead. This is truly a good coming of age story of good vs evil. Highly recommend this book as an entertaining reading experience. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
March 2, 2019
Shows promise.
The heroine in this novella is a bit immature. She is also really wishy washy. She is bold, then timid, then bold, then timid. In the end her decisions are taken out of her uncertain hands. Because it was so short the romance was severely rushed but since it is really a prequel for the series there is time for more development later.
I found the scenario and the characters sufficiently interesting to continue reading the series.
The heroine in this novella is a bit immature. She is also really wishy washy. She is bold, then timid, then bold, then timid. In the end her decisions are taken out of her uncertain hands. Because it was so short the romance was severely rushed but since it is really a prequel for the series there is time for more development later.
I found the scenario and the characters sufficiently interesting to continue reading the series.
April 4, 2019
This story grabbed my attention from the first page, and after I read straight through to the last it left me wanting more. It is a short story, very well written, the central characters are well drawn and likeable, in an unusual but well scripted world where magic exists.. for some. It might be considered YA, for the age of Arielle and Prell, who's story it tells, but it's been a long time since I could be considered that, and I enjoyed it a great deal.
December 15, 2019
A nice story about a girl who's a "Grace-in-Waiting": someone that's supposed to become a big deal (and is kind of a big deal already) but whose life choices are theoretically out of her hands. Well, not so fast, Patriarchy. This is mostly a calm story, but it does get nerve-wracking toward the end. I look forward to reading the first full novel.
January 27, 2018
The City of Dreams: A Vale of Stars Novella.
I enjoyed this book immensely. It quickly drew the reader in and made them feel for Ariella. This was a short story but it packed an emotional wallop.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys fantasies and great writing.
I enjoyed this book immensely. It quickly drew the reader in and made them feel for Ariella. This was a short story but it packed an emotional wallop.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys fantasies and great writing.
September 18, 2018
Really nice story, a bit of a coming of age type. Althought its a bit weird to read about a world we dont really know about as i am used to read novellas after the main "story" about that specific universe.. but i can tell i will like the Vale of Stars world.
July 22, 2023
The City of Dreams by Hailey Griffiths – She is the only daughter to inherit her mother’s legacy, but the corruption that she only guessed at may be deeper than she ever feared. This is a very cool world! Happy Reading!
March 22, 2018
Great story and it was magical.
November 29, 2018
Good
My only complaint is that it was too short. This novella was like an episode and left me wanting more. Definitely cute but now I want to know more and how things turn out.
My only complaint is that it was too short. This novella was like an episode and left me wanting more. Definitely cute but now I want to know more and how things turn out.
January 26, 2019
Shows you that some things need the right environment to grow. So well bound I can't wait to read more!
March 21, 2019
A cute little novella
May 5, 2019
3.5 stars
It does say it's a half story and it certainly felt like it had just started to get going and it was already over! Keen to see if I can find the next part.
It does say it's a half story and it certainly felt like it had just started to get going and it was already over! Keen to see if I can find the next part.
June 12, 2019
B
I have to admit I wasnt real into the book at first but as I got into it, I liked it. Am looking forWard to the next novella.
I have to admit I wasnt real into the book at first but as I got into it, I liked it. Am looking forWard to the next novella.
June 27, 2019
Great book
July 8, 2019
Over too soon
January 1, 2022
Ariella and Prell's story is a captivating read. Love, magic, choices, and so much more happen in this. A must read page turner that'll leave you wanting more of the story. Loved this prequel.
June 28, 2020
This was beautifully written, and I adored the worldbuilding that we were given. The characters - especially Ariella were fantastic, and I loved the warmth of the relationships that were developed even within the space of a short book and I will be checking out the author's other work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews