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Jack and Ivy #1
The Brilliance of Stars
Amid the chaos of the Great War, two master assassins risk it all for love.
Washington DC, 1914. Ivy Olwen knows how to survive on the streets without two coins to rub together. But when she finds herself whisked into a secret society that seeks to maintain the balance of good and evil in the world, she can’t believe there’s more to life than just surviving. In the hallowed and historied halls of Talon, she learns European languages and ballroom dancing, as well as demolitions and sharpshooting—in short, everything a spy and assassin will need to survive in the field.
The first day Jack Vale meets Ivy, he knows she is not to be underestimated. The second day, he knows his heart will belong to no one else. Between sparring bouts and constellation gazing, Jack takes Ivy under his wing, and the two form a bond that soon turns to love.
While the rest of the world tumbles into war, the two embark on an official mission to take down a madman who has left a trail of blood and murder across Russia. Little do they know the unfathomable peril waiting in the wings of a chaotic Europe.
When Jack and Ivy are thrust into encounters each more terrifying than the last, Ivy must determine how far she will go to save the man she loves. Equal parts historical fiction and adventure novel, Ciesielski’s epic tale of espionage and romance will leave readers both enchanted and thrilled.
The first book of an epic duology from bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski, The Brilliance of Stars incorporates her signature blend of thrilling adventure, glamorous espionage, and sweeping romance.
Washington DC, 1914. Ivy Olwen knows how to survive on the streets without two coins to rub together. But when she finds herself whisked into a secret society that seeks to maintain the balance of good and evil in the world, she can’t believe there’s more to life than just surviving. In the hallowed and historied halls of Talon, she learns European languages and ballroom dancing, as well as demolitions and sharpshooting—in short, everything a spy and assassin will need to survive in the field.
The first day Jack Vale meets Ivy, he knows she is not to be underestimated. The second day, he knows his heart will belong to no one else. Between sparring bouts and constellation gazing, Jack takes Ivy under his wing, and the two form a bond that soon turns to love.
While the rest of the world tumbles into war, the two embark on an official mission to take down a madman who has left a trail of blood and murder across Russia. Little do they know the unfathomable peril waiting in the wings of a chaotic Europe.
When Jack and Ivy are thrust into encounters each more terrifying than the last, Ivy must determine how far she will go to save the man she loves. Equal parts historical fiction and adventure novel, Ciesielski’s epic tale of espionage and romance will leave readers both enchanted and thrilled.
The first book of an epic duology from bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski, The Brilliance of Stars incorporates her signature blend of thrilling adventure, glamorous espionage, and sweeping romance.
400 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2022
141 people are currently reading
6253 people want to read
About the author
J'nell Ciesielski
12 books903 followersBestselling author J’nell Ciesielski has a passion for heart-stopping adventure and sweeping love stories while weaving fresh takes into romances of times gone by. When not creating dashing heroes and daring heroines, she can be found dreaming of Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black and white movies. She is a member of the Tall Poppy Writers and lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and lazy beagle. Learn more at www.jnellciesielski.com.
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December 4, 2022
About the book: “Amid the chaos of the Great War, two master assassins risk it all for love.
The first book of an epic duology from bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski, The Brilliance of Stars incorporates her signature blend of thrilling adventure, glamorous espionage, and sweeping romance.”
I thoroughly enjoyed The Socialite by this author and was excited to read her newest book, the first in a duology, set during World War I. The opening scene propels you right into the middle of this story that’s part spy mystery, part romance, and part action adventure story with Ivy and Philip at the helm as trained assassins.
Overall, it’s a highly readable and sweeping journey, and thanks to a twisty cliffhanger, I’m on the edge of my seat awaiting book two, which promises to be just as exciting!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
The first book of an epic duology from bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski, The Brilliance of Stars incorporates her signature blend of thrilling adventure, glamorous espionage, and sweeping romance.”
I thoroughly enjoyed The Socialite by this author and was excited to read her newest book, the first in a duology, set during World War I. The opening scene propels you right into the middle of this story that’s part spy mystery, part romance, and part action adventure story with Ivy and Philip at the helm as trained assassins.
Overall, it’s a highly readable and sweeping journey, and thanks to a twisty cliffhanger, I’m on the edge of my seat awaiting book two, which promises to be just as exciting!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
September 3, 2022
Ivy Olwen is an orphan, and she and her best friend Philip have been living on the Washington DC streets for six years and where only the strong survive. Both are recruited into a secret society that wants good to prevail, victory is achievable, no matter the cost and course of action taken.
Talon needs candidates with bright minds, as they study languages, biology, dancing, etiquette, grammar, self-defence, shooting and how to use explosives. They encourage trainees to read as much as they can, general knowledge is another vital skill and to be able to think quickly. When Jack Vale a member of Talon first meets Ivy, he thinks she’s a boy and he soon learns that she has what it takes to be a secret agent. They practice boxing together, gaze at the stars and Jack starts to develop feelings for Ivy.
With the threat of The Great War in Europe, Talon sends operatives overseas, and Jack, Ivy and Philip all find themselves in Russia. They’re looking for an evil man, his name is Balaur, and he’s killed hundreds of innocent people, is developing a secret weapon and who knows what else he’s capable of? As the group travels from one end of Russia to another, they discover how difficult it is to track the elusive Balaur down, he seems to be one step ahead of them and is protected by his secret army and nasty followers.
I received a copy of The Brilliance of Stars (Jack and Ivy, #1) by J’Nell Ciesielski from HarperCollins Focus and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. It’s very different to the authors previous books, a historical thriller and action adventure story. I enjoyed reading about the lasting friendship between Ivy and Philip and her romance with Jack. All of Talon’s operatives have overcome tragedy and sadness in their lives, it makes them stronger and they need to be. The narrative’s plot is full of violence, espionage and suffering, the Talon group are fierce and loyal warriors, and I wouldn’t want to take them on! Three and a half stars from me, I look forward to the next book in the series, please read The Brilliance of Stars for yourself, and make up your own mind.
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Talon needs candidates with bright minds, as they study languages, biology, dancing, etiquette, grammar, self-defence, shooting and how to use explosives. They encourage trainees to read as much as they can, general knowledge is another vital skill and to be able to think quickly. When Jack Vale a member of Talon first meets Ivy, he thinks she’s a boy and he soon learns that she has what it takes to be a secret agent. They practice boxing together, gaze at the stars and Jack starts to develop feelings for Ivy.
With the threat of The Great War in Europe, Talon sends operatives overseas, and Jack, Ivy and Philip all find themselves in Russia. They’re looking for an evil man, his name is Balaur, and he’s killed hundreds of innocent people, is developing a secret weapon and who knows what else he’s capable of? As the group travels from one end of Russia to another, they discover how difficult it is to track the elusive Balaur down, he seems to be one step ahead of them and is protected by his secret army and nasty followers.
I received a copy of The Brilliance of Stars (Jack and Ivy, #1) by J’Nell Ciesielski from HarperCollins Focus and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. It’s very different to the authors previous books, a historical thriller and action adventure story. I enjoyed reading about the lasting friendship between Ivy and Philip and her romance with Jack. All of Talon’s operatives have overcome tragedy and sadness in their lives, it makes them stronger and they need to be. The narrative’s plot is full of violence, espionage and suffering, the Talon group are fierce and loyal warriors, and I wouldn’t want to take them on! Three and a half stars from me, I look forward to the next book in the series, please read The Brilliance of Stars for yourself, and make up your own mind.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/BooksKarrenm/
https://www.instagram.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
May 28, 2022
4 ⭐️
The Brilliance of Stars had it all--adventure, romance, suspense, and intrigue. This was my first book by J'nell Ciesielski, and a new author plus a gorgeous book cover were two things I couldn't turn down.
The pacing of the story was really great. The author wasted no time with a slow beginning; instead, she jumped right in, introducing the characters while maintaining a fast pace. I really loved Ivy and Philip's brother/sister relationship and how they'd protected each other since they were kids. They really had a great relationship, and I loved the scenes they were both in together. Also, just gotta say it--Jack was awesome. He had a great sense of humor and could make you laugh in one scene, but he was also deep and serious and could have you feeling the weight of whatever he was feeling--guilt, regret, or longing. The author did a great job with his character development throughout the story.
The only thing that's keeping me from giving this book a higher rating (because it really was an enjoyable read) is this: a content warning.
**SPOILER**
There's a scene in chapter twenty I ended up skipping because, well, it was quite obvious the direction it was headed in--a wedding night and a bedroom scene. (That sounds awkward to say, lol.) Although there wasn't explicit content (I probably would have DNFed the book if there was), there were enough descriptions for me to go, "Okay, I'm gonna skip this scene" because...I don't want to know what a husband and wife are doing on their first night of being married, haha. In a real-life marriage relationship, I know this would have been so sweet (and not to mention, appropriate) to experience, but as a fictional story, I'm not a fan of these kinds of scenes. (Please note that this is my personal preference, and if you don't have a problem with non-explicit bedroom scenes, then I think you'd give this book a higher rating than me.) There was also another comment made by the husband a few chapters later into the story that was quite suggestive (Awkward hint: a mention of bathing suits by the wife...and the husband made a suggestive comment about it), and I wished it wasn't included in the story.
(Comments like that always make me feel uncomfortable.)
Besides that scene in chapter twenty and a few other comments (all of my content warnings start to take place about 70%ish percent into the book, so you can still read a very decent amount of the book before they happen), I enjoyed this book. The author has a great writing style, great pacing and plot development, and a wonderful bunch of characters. Also, just gotta say--the ending made me mad. Because it was a cliff-hanger. Which means I was left in suspense. And have to wait for the next book to release. Ahh.
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of The Brilliance of Stars. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
The Brilliance of Stars had it all--adventure, romance, suspense, and intrigue. This was my first book by J'nell Ciesielski, and a new author plus a gorgeous book cover were two things I couldn't turn down.
The pacing of the story was really great. The author wasted no time with a slow beginning; instead, she jumped right in, introducing the characters while maintaining a fast pace. I really loved Ivy and Philip's brother/sister relationship and how they'd protected each other since they were kids. They really had a great relationship, and I loved the scenes they were both in together. Also, just gotta say it--Jack was awesome. He had a great sense of humor and could make you laugh in one scene, but he was also deep and serious and could have you feeling the weight of whatever he was feeling--guilt, regret, or longing. The author did a great job with his character development throughout the story.
The only thing that's keeping me from giving this book a higher rating (because it really was an enjoyable read) is this: a content warning.
**SPOILER**
There's a scene in chapter twenty I ended up skipping because, well, it was quite obvious the direction it was headed in--a wedding night and a bedroom scene. (That sounds awkward to say, lol.) Although there wasn't explicit content (I probably would have DNFed the book if there was), there were enough descriptions for me to go, "Okay, I'm gonna skip this scene" because...I don't want to know what a husband and wife are doing on their first night of being married, haha. In a real-life marriage relationship, I know this would have been so sweet (and not to mention, appropriate) to experience, but as a fictional story, I'm not a fan of these kinds of scenes. (Please note that this is my personal preference, and if you don't have a problem with non-explicit bedroom scenes, then I think you'd give this book a higher rating than me.) There was also another comment made by the husband a few chapters later into the story that was quite suggestive (Awkward hint: a mention of bathing suits by the wife...and the husband made a suggestive comment about it), and I wished it wasn't included in the story.
(Comments like that always make me feel uncomfortable.)
Besides that scene in chapter twenty and a few other comments (all of my content warnings start to take place about 70%ish percent into the book, so you can still read a very decent amount of the book before they happen), I enjoyed this book. The author has a great writing style, great pacing and plot development, and a wonderful bunch of characters. Also, just gotta say--the ending made me mad. Because it was a cliff-hanger. Which means I was left in suspense. And have to wait for the next book to release. Ahh.
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of The Brilliance of Stars. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
November 6, 2022
This book is really hard to review because it had such a mixed bag of things that I really enjoyed and thought worked well...and then things that made me raise my brow and go, "Really?"
Okay, so I do want to highlight the good things first because it had a lot!
•If you are looking for action, this book delivers. It starts out with bullets flying. Literally. Explosions, street fights, assassin training, and more throughout the entire book.
•I loved the historical setting. It's set on the cusps of WWI. And halfway through the book, we get to follow them to Russia!
•I adored Jack & Phillip's relationship. They are so fun together and I loved how Jack took Phillip under his wings right away.
•Found family
•There are some great side characters that felt fully fleshed-out and real.
•The ending (though it does leave on a cliffhanger and parts of it were predictable) was really good (though predictable).
Now, for what made me really go...meh...for most of the book:
•The biggest issue I have with this book is that it is being marketed everywhere (I realize this is a publisher issue and not an author issue, so no hate against the author for this at all) as a Christian fiction book. While this is a mostly clean book (we'll get to that in a min), this is NOT a Christian book. One time on around page 270, the MC "thanks God" for the girl. And right toward the end, the female MC says something like, "You're not the Almighty!" This is the ONLY mention of God in this book. There is otherwise, no faith. Which is a shame.
•The MC makes the comment that loving and worshiping the female MC aren't strong enough words to describe his feelings for her. I really hate when anyone says they worship someone else. Worship is for God alone.
• There are a lot of cheesy lines where they are declaring feelings and kissing while bullets are flying. No one would do this.
•The way Jack & Ivy speak to one another, while beautiful, does not match their characters.
•There's a fade-to-black scene (between a married couple) that I felt had too much detail and honestly...did nothing for the story. There's also more innuendo later (again between a married couple) that just seemed so out of place and wasn't necessary.
•I find it extremely hard to believe that in two years' time, someone (who said they could barely read before) can be fluent not only in several languages, but also understand the different local dialects of those languages, AND know dead languages. And also found time to become a deadly, trained assassin who's almost as good a shot as the snipper. 😒
•The romantic relationship and a lot of the storyline were predictable.
I really wanted to like it because I love history, WWI, spies, romance, and all the things this book promised. But a lot of it just fell flat for me.
Okay, so I do want to highlight the good things first because it had a lot!
•If you are looking for action, this book delivers. It starts out with bullets flying. Literally. Explosions, street fights, assassin training, and more throughout the entire book.
•I loved the historical setting. It's set on the cusps of WWI. And halfway through the book, we get to follow them to Russia!
•I adored Jack & Phillip's relationship. They are so fun together and I loved how Jack took Phillip under his wings right away.
•Found family
•There are some great side characters that felt fully fleshed-out and real.
•The ending (though it does leave on a cliffhanger and parts of it were predictable) was really good (though predictable).
Now, for what made me really go...meh...for most of the book:
•The biggest issue I have with this book is that it is being marketed everywhere (I realize this is a publisher issue and not an author issue, so no hate against the author for this at all) as a Christian fiction book. While this is a mostly clean book (we'll get to that in a min), this is NOT a Christian book. One time on around page 270, the MC "thanks God" for the girl. And right toward the end, the female MC says something like, "You're not the Almighty!" This is the ONLY mention of God in this book. There is otherwise, no faith. Which is a shame.
•The MC makes the comment that loving and worshiping the female MC aren't strong enough words to describe his feelings for her. I really hate when anyone says they worship someone else. Worship is for God alone.
• There are a lot of cheesy lines where they are declaring feelings and kissing while bullets are flying. No one would do this.
•The way Jack & Ivy speak to one another, while beautiful, does not match their characters.
•There's a fade-to-black scene (between a married couple) that I felt had too much detail and honestly...did nothing for the story. There's also more innuendo later (again between a married couple) that just seemed so out of place and wasn't necessary.
•I find it extremely hard to believe that in two years' time, someone (who said they could barely read before) can be fluent not only in several languages, but also understand the different local dialects of those languages, AND know dead languages. And also found time to become a deadly, trained assassin who's almost as good a shot as the snipper. 😒
•The romantic relationship and a lot of the storyline were predictable.
I really wanted to like it because I love history, WWI, spies, romance, and all the things this book promised. But a lot of it just fell flat for me.
July 6, 2022
First sentence: She kissed Jack hard on the mouth, then aimed her Beretta over his shoulder and fired a round of shots down the medieval corridor of Dobryzov Castle.
The Brilliance of Stars is a spy-thriller-romance with hints of the supernatural. It is set during the midst of the first world war or the "great war" or the "war to end all wars." It is published by Thomas Nelson, a Christian publisher, so I assumed that it would be Christian fiction. (I don't think it actually is.)
Ivy and Philip are orphans continually down on their luck. Though not biologically related, they've been there for each other in their darkest of days. And their luck changes--for better or worse--when they are together on the streets. They stumble across something that could potentially prove deadly... a very private conversation with spies in a super secret spy organization. But, the two are taken back to head quarters and are essentially recruited. (Because why not??? Homeless orphans with no education are prime potential spies.) Philip is drawn to the weapons and inventions and the fighting action--or potential thereof. And Ivy, well, Ivy is drawn to the intellectual aspects of it. She'll learn to read and write English, and pick up a dozen plus foreign languages in just a year or possibly two. All the while packing away history, literature, and folklore for multiple cultures. She'll need quick recall of all the above for her super-secret missions in warring countries.
Jack Vale, our super-dreamy hero, is training both Philip and Ivy. Though he's falling truly, madly, deeply in love with Ivy. (Though pretending not to.) When they are deemed field ready, he'll be supervising them both. The three of them will form part of a team...and most of their mission will occur in a war-torn, toppling Russia.
Their spy missions have absolutely nothing to do with World War I OR with the Russian Revolution. Their spy missions instead have completely everything to do with super secret spy organizations with occult ties. So think MARVEL MOVIES or ALIAS. The potential 'supernatural' connection has more to do with vampire folklore and the occult than to anything else. I also feel the author was inspired by this Marvel-esque super soldier idea.
I was drawn to this one potentially because of WORLD WAR I and, you know, actual history. Whether the focus was on World War I in general OR the Russian Revolution, it didn't matter so much. But I wasn't interested in a spy/thriller that was focused more on occult super secret evil organizations. So the book began to lose me when it went that direction.
There is so much potential for stories set in the real world in Russia during 1917 that I didn't need this other.
The romance I felt was a little heavy-handed. The dialogue was very cheesy. Which might work for some readers. No judgment. But it gave off Anakin and Padme vibes. Again, just my opinion. And to be published by a Christian publisher, I felt it was a little too physically graphic. Granted, they were married. But still. That doesn't mean readers need so much information about intimate moments.
The writing wasn't exactly my cup of tea.
Quotes:
Jack gritted his teeth as fury boiled to his lips.
Blood trickled from the slash angled across her bicep, the bright red drops marring her white skin and glowing in the campfire light.
The body that belonged to the voice stepped out of the darkness, unshrouding itself from a memory of billowing smoke, panicked screams ripping through a castle, and a single bullet lodging into skull and brain.
Balaur uprooted himself like a mushroom from its mud pit and walked to the reindeer, crooning low in his throat.
The Brilliance of Stars is a spy-thriller-romance with hints of the supernatural. It is set during the midst of the first world war or the "great war" or the "war to end all wars." It is published by Thomas Nelson, a Christian publisher, so I assumed that it would be Christian fiction. (I don't think it actually is.)
Ivy and Philip are orphans continually down on their luck. Though not biologically related, they've been there for each other in their darkest of days. And their luck changes--for better or worse--when they are together on the streets. They stumble across something that could potentially prove deadly... a very private conversation with spies in a super secret spy organization. But, the two are taken back to head quarters and are essentially recruited. (Because why not??? Homeless orphans with no education are prime potential spies.) Philip is drawn to the weapons and inventions and the fighting action--or potential thereof. And Ivy, well, Ivy is drawn to the intellectual aspects of it. She'll learn to read and write English, and pick up a dozen plus foreign languages in just a year or possibly two. All the while packing away history, literature, and folklore for multiple cultures. She'll need quick recall of all the above for her super-secret missions in warring countries.
Jack Vale, our super-dreamy hero, is training both Philip and Ivy. Though he's falling truly, madly, deeply in love with Ivy. (Though pretending not to.) When they are deemed field ready, he'll be supervising them both. The three of them will form part of a team...and most of their mission will occur in a war-torn, toppling Russia.
Their spy missions have absolutely nothing to do with World War I OR with the Russian Revolution. Their spy missions instead have completely everything to do with super secret spy organizations with occult ties. So think MARVEL MOVIES or ALIAS. The potential 'supernatural' connection has more to do with vampire folklore and the occult than to anything else. I also feel the author was inspired by this Marvel-esque super soldier idea.
I was drawn to this one potentially because of WORLD WAR I and, you know, actual history. Whether the focus was on World War I in general OR the Russian Revolution, it didn't matter so much. But I wasn't interested in a spy/thriller that was focused more on occult super secret evil organizations. So the book began to lose me when it went that direction.
There is so much potential for stories set in the real world in Russia during 1917 that I didn't need this other.
The romance I felt was a little heavy-handed. The dialogue was very cheesy. Which might work for some readers. No judgment. But it gave off Anakin and Padme vibes. Again, just my opinion. And to be published by a Christian publisher, I felt it was a little too physically graphic. Granted, they were married. But still. That doesn't mean readers need so much information about intimate moments.
The writing wasn't exactly my cup of tea.
Quotes:
Jack gritted his teeth as fury boiled to his lips.
Blood trickled from the slash angled across her bicep, the bright red drops marring her white skin and glowing in the campfire light.
The body that belonged to the voice stepped out of the darkness, unshrouding itself from a memory of billowing smoke, panicked screams ripping through a castle, and a single bullet lodging into skull and brain.
Balaur uprooted himself like a mushroom from its mud pit and walked to the reindeer, crooning low in his throat.
August 3, 2022
Washington DC and Russia 1914
The beginning of the novel drew me right in. What's not to love about two orphans getting a chance to improve their standard of living?
As the story line transitioned to missions in Russia and beyond, my head was spinning a bit at all Phillip, Jack and Ivy went through. Readers will find plenty of espionage and action as the three main characters and more work together to fight against those set on using weapons of mass destruction. I loved the historical details included in the pages and the marriage proposal.
I didn't enjoy this novel as much as Beauty Among the Ruins. However, the two are very different types of stories. The author is showing diversity in voice with the Jack and Ivy Series.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary NetGalley copy. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
The beginning of the novel drew me right in. What's not to love about two orphans getting a chance to improve their standard of living?
As the story line transitioned to missions in Russia and beyond, my head was spinning a bit at all Phillip, Jack and Ivy went through. Readers will find plenty of espionage and action as the three main characters and more work together to fight against those set on using weapons of mass destruction. I loved the historical details included in the pages and the marriage proposal.
I didn't enjoy this novel as much as Beauty Among the Ruins. However, the two are very different types of stories. The author is showing diversity in voice with the Jack and Ivy Series.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary NetGalley copy. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 31, 2022
Oh my stars! This book was epic!!
Seriously. Epic.
Go buy this book. It has suspense, romance in spades, an eye opening spotlight in history, and style uniquely Ms. Ciesielski. All of that makes this book readable and re-readable in my opinion.
I can't wait for book 2!!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
**Full review at: https://tonishiloh.com/2022/10/31/boo...
Seriously. Epic.
Go buy this book. It has suspense, romance in spades, an eye opening spotlight in history, and style uniquely Ms. Ciesielski. All of that makes this book readable and re-readable in my opinion.
I can't wait for book 2!!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
**Full review at: https://tonishiloh.com/2022/10/31/boo...
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November 18, 2022WWI spies, a spirited heroine, and a strong but gentle hero? I’m so in!
Then add gorgeous, sweeping scenery, a sparkling cast, and twisty plot. Gah! Bring it on. Now I just need the sequel…like yesterday, please.
Then add gorgeous, sweeping scenery, a sparkling cast, and twisty plot. Gah! Bring it on. Now I just need the sequel…like yesterday, please.
June 15, 2022
This book races around the globe with a duo that feels like a combination of Mission Impossible and the first Captain America. Add in a villain with Red Skull overtones and you have a good feel for this novel. I enjoyed reading it. Those who love action with a strong romance will enjoy this novel. Note, the romance is on the clean side of steamy but intense.
April 16, 2023
I don't make it a habit of rating books so harshly, but this book left me cold. Several things bothered me, but I'll preface the list by saying that, when I read a book from a Christian publishing house, there's an expectation that the book will be clean. But even beyond that, there will be at least an attempt to share the light of Christ.
The only mention of God's name in this book was when it was taken in vain. There is no excuse for that. Ever.
That's the first issue.
The second issue is the author used a Russian curse word. Granted, it was in Russian, most likely 98% of the readers didn't understand it, but does that make it ok?
The third issue is the author used two English curse words multiple times. One could argue that one of the words was used in its literal sense. I don't personally agree with that. The other word was used completely gratuitously.
The storyline itself was sprinkled throughout with references to the occult. If she had to include that garbage, she should have countered it with the light of the Gospel.
I'm quite sad, because I have enjoyed this author's books, but I'm just not comfortable supporting an author who is supposedly a Christian, but doesn't write like it.
The only mention of God's name in this book was when it was taken in vain. There is no excuse for that. Ever.
That's the first issue.
The second issue is the author used a Russian curse word. Granted, it was in Russian, most likely 98% of the readers didn't understand it, but does that make it ok?
The third issue is the author used two English curse words multiple times. One could argue that one of the words was used in its literal sense. I don't personally agree with that. The other word was used completely gratuitously.
The storyline itself was sprinkled throughout with references to the occult. If she had to include that garbage, she should have countered it with the light of the Gospel.
I'm quite sad, because I have enjoyed this author's books, but I'm just not comfortable supporting an author who is supposedly a Christian, but doesn't write like it.
June 27, 2022
Review TK.
October 19, 2022
When I come across a book I want to review I usually scan the synopsis briefly to see if I am interested. It's usually not something I commit to memory, especially if I am familiar with the author in some way. Sometimes in the interim between agreeing to read the book and actually sitting down to read it, (which can be a couple months) I forget what the book is about. This book really surprised me. Caught me off guard. I have read other books by this author and this book wasn't really like those. It had a different feel to it that I wasn't expecting.
There is a constant, pressing forward momentum in this story. It's got a LOT packed into it's pages. History, danger, intrigue and evil. I loved the first half of the book as we learned about Ivy and Phillip, their backstories, how they came to be with the spy organization. The growing friendship between the two and Jack was a good one. How can you not sympathize with the plight of orphans? Scrappy, brilliant orphans who finally find a place to belong. Yeah, there was some tugging of the heartstrings.
I didn't fully get the romance between Jack and Ivy because it was certainly unconventional and a bit out of the scope of what I understand. Fighting each other to blood one minute and kissing the next. Yeah, I don't really get that but I surely did love Jack's complete devotion to Ivy, especially once he took the leap to tell her. Once he was all in, he was ALL IN. I love that kind of loyalty and devotion.
The second half of the book definitely grew in intensity. It was a crazy whirlwind of places, people, intrigue and violence that just got crazier and crazier. By the time I reached the end, I felt quite over done. Overwhelmed. The other aspect I was caught off guard about was the ending. I didn't realize I would have a cliff hanger ending with some heavy foreshadowing of things to come. I don't love cliffhangers. I'm going with a 3.5/5 stars for this one.
Content: violence, death, peril, kissing. Fade to black intimate scene between a married couple.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
There is a constant, pressing forward momentum in this story. It's got a LOT packed into it's pages. History, danger, intrigue and evil. I loved the first half of the book as we learned about Ivy and Phillip, their backstories, how they came to be with the spy organization. The growing friendship between the two and Jack was a good one. How can you not sympathize with the plight of orphans? Scrappy, brilliant orphans who finally find a place to belong. Yeah, there was some tugging of the heartstrings.
I didn't fully get the romance between Jack and Ivy because it was certainly unconventional and a bit out of the scope of what I understand. Fighting each other to blood one minute and kissing the next. Yeah, I don't really get that but I surely did love Jack's complete devotion to Ivy, especially once he took the leap to tell her. Once he was all in, he was ALL IN. I love that kind of loyalty and devotion.
The second half of the book definitely grew in intensity. It was a crazy whirlwind of places, people, intrigue and violence that just got crazier and crazier. By the time I reached the end, I felt quite over done. Overwhelmed. The other aspect I was caught off guard about was the ending. I didn't realize I would have a cliff hanger ending with some heavy foreshadowing of things to come. I don't love cliffhangers. I'm going with a 3.5/5 stars for this one.
Content: violence, death, peril, kissing. Fade to black intimate scene between a married couple.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 3, 2024
I did not like this and I am sad about it 😬
August 8, 2023
first reviewed here: https://belovedgraceful-carissasbooks...
Title: The Brilliance of Stars
Author: J’nell Ciesielski
Ch: 28 plus prologue and epilogue
Pg: 400
Series: Jack and Ivy book 1
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 5 stars
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
“She kissed Jack hard on the mouth, then aimed her Beretta over his shoulder and fired a round of shots down the medieval corridor of Dobruzov Castle.”
This first line gives me Black Widow and Winter Soldier vibes. So, if that’s what the author was going for, it worked. I normally don’t include first lines in my reviews but this one needed it because I feel like it adds to my review. Because that first line hooked me from the get-go, and that rare.
Ivy is a woman of her time but she’s also quite capable. And Jack knows this doesn’t overstep. Which in my book makes him the perfect hero?. And it doesn’t hurt that books play a part. As both are readers. It’s rare to get a hero in historical fiction that’s a reader who has a balance of intelligence and strength. A sniper needs both. And that’s what we get in Jack. I do believe Jack Vale has become my new favorite historical hero.
The Brilliance of Stars gave me everything I love in historical fiction spies, Russia, Eastern Europe war. Loved that this one takes place during WWI which we don’t have enough of.
In The Brilliance of Stars J’nell gave me something the MCU failed to give me. A chance for the Winter Soldier/ Bucky has a chance to fall in love. She gave me the Winter Soldier and Black Widow vibes that was missing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Title: The Brilliance of Stars
Author: J’nell Ciesielski
Ch: 28 plus prologue and epilogue
Pg: 400
Series: Jack and Ivy book 1
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 5 stars
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
“She kissed Jack hard on the mouth, then aimed her Beretta over his shoulder and fired a round of shots down the medieval corridor of Dobruzov Castle.”
This first line gives me Black Widow and Winter Soldier vibes. So, if that’s what the author was going for, it worked. I normally don’t include first lines in my reviews but this one needed it because I feel like it adds to my review. Because that first line hooked me from the get-go, and that rare.
Ivy is a woman of her time but she’s also quite capable. And Jack knows this doesn’t overstep. Which in my book makes him the perfect hero?. And it doesn’t hurt that books play a part. As both are readers. It’s rare to get a hero in historical fiction that’s a reader who has a balance of intelligence and strength. A sniper needs both. And that’s what we get in Jack. I do believe Jack Vale has become my new favorite historical hero.
The Brilliance of Stars gave me everything I love in historical fiction spies, Russia, Eastern Europe war. Loved that this one takes place during WWI which we don’t have enough of.
In The Brilliance of Stars J’nell gave me something the MCU failed to give me. A chance for the Winter Soldier/ Bucky has a chance to fall in love. She gave me the Winter Soldier and Black Widow vibes that was missing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
October 23, 2022
A well blended story using a little bit of fantasy adventure, romance and historical accuracy in finally finding a place to belong in a secret society.
January 23, 2023
What a fun story! Plenty of action, plenty of romance. I’ll confess, I’m not a huge Marvel fan. I’ve barely seen any of the movies. But I loved Jack and Ivy. So if this story was inspired by the author watching tons of the Captain America Marvel movies (as she mentions in her author note), well, I may have to give those movies another try. Maybe it’ll help hold me over until her the next book releases.
Did not finish
September 18, 2024When am I going to learn I just don't like spy stories. I think maybe I have issues with the very concept of spying in the first place. But the other issue is that so many spy stories aren't about just spying on enemy activity and reporting back (which I would be OK with), but are about acting independently against an enemy. The morality gets very wishy-washy and I found that to be true here. Sure, the enemy was definitely a bad guy doing bad things, but the justification of the actions of the spy/assassin team all felt really thin to me. Especially when the lead guy was yelling at his team to follow his instructions EXPLICITLY while at the same time, forging ahead on an unauthorized mission. Maybe that was resolved later on, but I just decided I was forcing myself to read it while simultaneously looking longingly at the other books on my TBR. Why am I doing that to myself? That's stupid. The other thing is that this book is BRUTAL. There are graphic descriptions of fights, including knives, explosions, and other barbaric warfare elements. Not my cup of tea. I know it happens, but I don't need to read about it, not in this context, anyway. I do think there are a lot of people who would really like this book because it's written very well. I was invested in the characters until my interest in them got overshadowed by the stuff I didnt' like as much.
Thanks for reading my really long run-on paragraph.
Thanks for reading my really long run-on paragraph.
November 10, 2022
This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in Library Journal.
Ciesielski (The Ice Swan) starts off her new series with a kiss and a bang, and neither the romance nor action slows down from there. Ivy, Jack, and Philip are all orphans, hardened on the mean streets of early 20th century Washington, DC. A chance encounter under a bridge catapults them into a new life of deception and intrigue as part of a secret society called Talon, which has sworn to root out evil in every corner of the globe.
As Talon operatives learn combat and espionage skills, they also have to learn who to trust amidst a world at war.
VERDICT This is an adrenaline-packed, globe-trotting read for anyone looking for a clean-cut adventure reminiscent of Captain America. It’s a great title to add to genre-bending Christian fiction shelves containing Michelle Griep’s “Blackfriars” series and Ronie Kendig’s “The Tox Files” series.
Ciesielski (The Ice Swan) starts off her new series with a kiss and a bang, and neither the romance nor action slows down from there. Ivy, Jack, and Philip are all orphans, hardened on the mean streets of early 20th century Washington, DC. A chance encounter under a bridge catapults them into a new life of deception and intrigue as part of a secret society called Talon, which has sworn to root out evil in every corner of the globe.
As Talon operatives learn combat and espionage skills, they also have to learn who to trust amidst a world at war.
VERDICT This is an adrenaline-packed, globe-trotting read for anyone looking for a clean-cut adventure reminiscent of Captain America. It’s a great title to add to genre-bending Christian fiction shelves containing Michelle Griep’s “Blackfriars” series and Ronie Kendig’s “The Tox Files” series.
July 5, 2025
This gave me so much ‘captain america: the first avenger’ vibes only ten times better and with better romantic plot and I’m so here for it. I also have no words for the plot twist at the end🫨
November 5, 2022
Wow, this was such an intense book - in a good way!! I will say, it's not for the faint of heart as it is quite descriptive in its fighting and romance. Nothing I felt was inappropriate, but maybe better suited for older readers. Also, there were some swear words used in their literal, dictionary sense so, while I wasn't offended at that sort of use, I realize some people may be.
All that said, I cannot wait for the second book! I loved all of the training at Talon, the European history, the fight for righteousness, and (most of all), the characters! They're real, they're deep, they're flawed, yet they're perfect! Their ragtag sense of family is fantastic to watch! The author's writing is absolutely fabulous and I look forward to reading more of her novels!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
All that said, I cannot wait for the second book! I loved all of the training at Talon, the European history, the fight for righteousness, and (most of all), the characters! They're real, they're deep, they're flawed, yet they're perfect! Their ragtag sense of family is fantastic to watch! The author's writing is absolutely fabulous and I look forward to reading more of her novels!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 14, 2022
** “The agency upon which you have thrust yourselves is a beacon of light poised to roust out the bitter darkness seeping through the earth’s cracks. Yet for our work to find success, our light must be cloaked in shadow.” **
J’nell Ciesielski delivers an intense World War I era novel with “The Brilliance of Stars,” a story of clandestine organizations and finding one’s place in the world.
When orphans Ivy and Philip find themselves in a situation they shouldn’t be witnessing, they soon are drawn into a secret society called Talon — one that seeks to fill in the good versus evil cracks left behind by the government (“When a country’s government fails to send their army or extend aid to the defenseless that is when we step in. Whatever is required to ensure that good outweighs evil.”)
Trained and befriended by Jack, the trio quickly form a tight bond that soon takes them to Europe and Russia to find and eliminate a man creating a deadly weapon, as well as to search for fellow agents who have gone missing.
What follows is an intense story filled with violence, loyalty, determination and heroism. Ciesielski does an incredible job of developing a plot that will leave readers guessing as to whether Jack, Ivy and Philip will succeed in their cause. She also creates characters that you can’t help but fall in love with and root for, as well as some you will completely loathe.
She also offers several great themes in “The Brilliance of Stars,” like feeling safe; security and belonging; the past doesn’t determine who we are; tomorrow is never promised, so seek joy when you can; abandonment; and overcoming and dealing with guilt.
I did feel the plot was a little bogged down at times, and the story does contain a couple of incidences of very mild language. It does end on a cliffhanger, so be aware of that.
Fans of historical fiction, especially war-era stories, as well as action-packed characters like Clive Cussler’s Isaac Bell and dynamic duos like Agatha Christie’s Tommy and Tuppence and The Thin Man’s Nick and Nora will love “The Brilliance of Stars,” which is due out Nov. 1.
Four stars out of five.
Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
J’nell Ciesielski delivers an intense World War I era novel with “The Brilliance of Stars,” a story of clandestine organizations and finding one’s place in the world.
When orphans Ivy and Philip find themselves in a situation they shouldn’t be witnessing, they soon are drawn into a secret society called Talon — one that seeks to fill in the good versus evil cracks left behind by the government (“When a country’s government fails to send their army or extend aid to the defenseless that is when we step in. Whatever is required to ensure that good outweighs evil.”)
Trained and befriended by Jack, the trio quickly form a tight bond that soon takes them to Europe and Russia to find and eliminate a man creating a deadly weapon, as well as to search for fellow agents who have gone missing.
What follows is an intense story filled with violence, loyalty, determination and heroism. Ciesielski does an incredible job of developing a plot that will leave readers guessing as to whether Jack, Ivy and Philip will succeed in their cause. She also creates characters that you can’t help but fall in love with and root for, as well as some you will completely loathe.
She also offers several great themes in “The Brilliance of Stars,” like feeling safe; security and belonging; the past doesn’t determine who we are; tomorrow is never promised, so seek joy when you can; abandonment; and overcoming and dealing with guilt.
I did feel the plot was a little bogged down at times, and the story does contain a couple of incidences of very mild language. It does end on a cliffhanger, so be aware of that.
Fans of historical fiction, especially war-era stories, as well as action-packed characters like Clive Cussler’s Isaac Bell and dynamic duos like Agatha Christie’s Tommy and Tuppence and The Thin Man’s Nick and Nora will love “The Brilliance of Stars,” which is due out Nov. 1.
Four stars out of five.
Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
September 22, 2022
I’m waffling on the rating for this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it but there were things that drove me nuts and there are some warnings that I feel need to be made known.
Spy books are cool. Romances are sweet. But spy romances are hard to do. Why? Because the romance either gets in the way of the spy bits or it gets shoved aside for the action. Honestly, I prefer the latter.
I loved Jack and Ivy and their relationship. But they would get mushy at inconvenient times when it’s really dumb to be distracted. I just kept getting annoyed at them.
Then, I know that it is well and good for married people to be attracted to each other and I don’t mind things like a couple going into a room and closing the door or even insinuations of later on that night, but there is a scene with a married couple that walks dangerously close to the line. Again, it’s marriage and we should be showing marriage as good and desirable and all that but in books???? Just for this aspect I don’t recommend for anyone under 21 and maybe not for unmarried women. Especially if you struggle with thoughts and fantasies or have a past of sexual addiction. There is nothing graphic in this book but it leads to a place where you start to fantasize. I ended up skimming that part.
Okay, all that is important but you also need to know that this is a fun book. I loved the spy element and the secret agency working around the world but set against WWI. Very cool. I loved Phillip and who he is to both Ivy and Jack. This is a cool series that J’nell has created and I can’t wait to see where it goes. I will definitely be reading the next book. That cliff hanger has me all worked up, though!
Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and a favorable review was not required.
Spy books are cool. Romances are sweet. But spy romances are hard to do. Why? Because the romance either gets in the way of the spy bits or it gets shoved aside for the action. Honestly, I prefer the latter.
I loved Jack and Ivy and their relationship. But they would get mushy at inconvenient times when it’s really dumb to be distracted. I just kept getting annoyed at them.
Then, I know that it is well and good for married people to be attracted to each other and I don’t mind things like a couple going into a room and closing the door or even insinuations of later on that night, but there is a scene with a married couple that walks dangerously close to the line. Again, it’s marriage and we should be showing marriage as good and desirable and all that but in books???? Just for this aspect I don’t recommend for anyone under 21 and maybe not for unmarried women. Especially if you struggle with thoughts and fantasies or have a past of sexual addiction. There is nothing graphic in this book but it leads to a place where you start to fantasize. I ended up skimming that part.
Okay, all that is important but you also need to know that this is a fun book. I loved the spy element and the secret agency working around the world but set against WWI. Very cool. I loved Phillip and who he is to both Ivy and Jack. This is a cool series that J’nell has created and I can’t wait to see where it goes. I will definitely be reading the next book. That cliff hanger has me all worked up, though!
Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and a favorable review was not required.
November 8, 2022
BOOK REVIEW - THE BRILLIANCE OF STARS - 5/5 STARS
I started off my blog with a J'nell Ciesielski book and so I feel I must continue with the tradition of reviewing each of her books.
THE STORY
I should be sleeping right now but couldn't not review this book which was amazing! Such a different feel from other books I've read, including J'nell's other stories. It definitely still had her signature historic drama and swoony romance but this book also had a thrilling excitement that kept me on my toes and reading. Work and responsibilities are the only reasons this wasn't read in one sitting! It was fast paced, had an ever-changing scenery and a continually developing storyline with unexpected twists and turns. And the ending! Oh. My. Gosh. I can't remember when I was last so anticipated a sequel! J'nell Ciesielski, have mercy on us all and please release it quickly!
THE ROMANCE
Due to the fast pace of the story, it meant I didn't have to wait long for the romance to develop and I'll never complain about that! Love at first sight is not usually a favourite but J'nell Ciesielski still allowed time for feelings and maturity to catch up and I enjoyed that. And once feelings were declared, so much sizzle and pop while still remaining clean, the best combo!
THE TRUTHS
Storylines like in this book always make me ask myself, how far am I willing to go for a righteous cause? It's a moral conundrum which unfortunately I don't have time to get into today, so instead I'll ask this, how far are you willing to go for Christ? Hopefully, we all answer as far as it takes! I pray that if that we are called one day to stand for our faith, that we all stand strong and brave no matter the odds!
I started off my blog with a J'nell Ciesielski book and so I feel I must continue with the tradition of reviewing each of her books.
THE STORY
I should be sleeping right now but couldn't not review this book which was amazing! Such a different feel from other books I've read, including J'nell's other stories. It definitely still had her signature historic drama and swoony romance but this book also had a thrilling excitement that kept me on my toes and reading. Work and responsibilities are the only reasons this wasn't read in one sitting! It was fast paced, had an ever-changing scenery and a continually developing storyline with unexpected twists and turns. And the ending! Oh. My. Gosh. I can't remember when I was last so anticipated a sequel! J'nell Ciesielski, have mercy on us all and please release it quickly!
THE ROMANCE
Due to the fast pace of the story, it meant I didn't have to wait long for the romance to develop and I'll never complain about that! Love at first sight is not usually a favourite but J'nell Ciesielski still allowed time for feelings and maturity to catch up and I enjoyed that. And once feelings were declared, so much sizzle and pop while still remaining clean, the best combo!
THE TRUTHS
Storylines like in this book always make me ask myself, how far am I willing to go for a righteous cause? It's a moral conundrum which unfortunately I don't have time to get into today, so instead I'll ask this, how far are you willing to go for Christ? Hopefully, we all answer as far as it takes! I pray that if that we are called one day to stand for our faith, that we all stand strong and brave no matter the odds!
May 30, 2022
A perfect blend of both adventure and romance, The Brilliance of Stars was both hard to put down and has me wishing the next installment was already available. I’m already fully invested in Jack and Ivy’s story along with their friends.
I loved reading about the development of 2 orphans finding their place in belonging with Talon, along with the growth in Jack and Ivy’s relationship, and their friendship with Philip. The characters warred with their trust and rejection struggles coming out growing up abandoned or on their own, while having to rely on and work with each other in the espionage work they were a part of.
I also really loved how each person has their own talent, while also having to still be adept at basic fighting and strategy required in their line of work. Their personalities and baggage played well in their strengths and weaknesses.
The book ended on a cliffhanger and I’m looking forward to the next book to see how it ends. I think the ending really left a realistic note and didn’t just tie things up in a pretty bow, and I appreciate that.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved reading about the development of 2 orphans finding their place in belonging with Talon, along with the growth in Jack and Ivy’s relationship, and their friendship with Philip. The characters warred with their trust and rejection struggles coming out growing up abandoned or on their own, while having to rely on and work with each other in the espionage work they were a part of.
I also really loved how each person has their own talent, while also having to still be adept at basic fighting and strategy required in their line of work. Their personalities and baggage played well in their strengths and weaknesses.
The book ended on a cliffhanger and I’m looking forward to the next book to see how it ends. I think the ending really left a realistic note and didn’t just tie things up in a pretty bow, and I appreciate that.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 22, 2022
A departure from J'nell Cielsielski's other historical romances, "The Brilliance of Stars" is an intriguing Romantic Suspense complete with a secret paramilitary society determined to eliminate a dangerous megalomaniac. This complex novel features a cast of interesting characters; there's not a dull one to be found.
Rich in historical detail and sweeping in scope, this action-packed novel is also intensely romantic. Jack and Ivy's love for each other is deep and genuine. There is violence in this book; assassins' tools of trade are knives, guns and in the case of Philip, explosives. And while "The Brilliance of Stars" is clean, closed-door activity of a married couple is mentioned. The sparkling dialogue includes some humorous observations as well: “War and Peace made walking through the snow sound much more romantic than it actually is.”
Cielsielski's prose is crisp and evocative. A question I had about a certain character is answered at the end of this work, and sets up the continuing story arc. I look forward to the second novel in this outstanding two-part series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an ARC of this compelling novel.
Rich in historical detail and sweeping in scope, this action-packed novel is also intensely romantic. Jack and Ivy's love for each other is deep and genuine. There is violence in this book; assassins' tools of trade are knives, guns and in the case of Philip, explosives. And while "The Brilliance of Stars" is clean, closed-door activity of a married couple is mentioned. The sparkling dialogue includes some humorous observations as well: “War and Peace made walking through the snow sound much more romantic than it actually is.”
Cielsielski's prose is crisp and evocative. A question I had about a certain character is answered at the end of this work, and sets up the continuing story arc. I look forward to the second novel in this outstanding two-part series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an ARC of this compelling novel.
May 24, 2022
J'nell Ciesielski Is very quickly becoming one of my favorite historical fiction authors, and this was another fantastic book!
Two orphans, Ivy and Philip, who consider themselves siblings, have been living on the streets of the Washington DC area in 1914. After the accidentally overhear something they’re not supposed to, they’re taken in by a covert agency, Talon, to refine the skills that their leader thinks can be used for good. Ivy falls in love with a fellow agent, Jack, and when the two of them along with Philip and several other agents end up in Russia, they are tested by the pure evil that they encounter there.
This was an amazing book where the most compelling themes for me were friendship, love, and trust can become an anchor that keeps these characters fighting against evil, even when it seems impossible. J'nell Ciesielski’s writing is evocative and eloquent that I read this story in one sitting, much longer than I meant to.
I absolutely can’t wait until the next book comes out, especially with that ending!
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Two orphans, Ivy and Philip, who consider themselves siblings, have been living on the streets of the Washington DC area in 1914. After the accidentally overhear something they’re not supposed to, they’re taken in by a covert agency, Talon, to refine the skills that their leader thinks can be used for good. Ivy falls in love with a fellow agent, Jack, and when the two of them along with Philip and several other agents end up in Russia, they are tested by the pure evil that they encounter there.
This was an amazing book where the most compelling themes for me were friendship, love, and trust can become an anchor that keeps these characters fighting against evil, even when it seems impossible. J'nell Ciesielski’s writing is evocative and eloquent that I read this story in one sitting, much longer than I meant to.
I absolutely can’t wait until the next book comes out, especially with that ending!
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2022
Washington D.C. 1914
Ivy knows how to survive, so when she discovers the secret society of Talon and is trained to become a spy and assassin, which includes learning ballroom dancing, languages, sharpshooting, and demolitions.
She learns how hard it is to balance the world between good and evil as they track the trail of a madman across Russia during WW1.
The Brilliance of Stars does not lack adventure, but towards the end, it lost me, and I think it could’ve been wrapped a lot sooner than it was. I liked the adventure, the chasing of Tsar Balsur, and the exotic location of Russia in the early 1900s but in the end, I just wanted it to end.
I also did not connect with Ivy or Jack, who are the main characters. I found that their romance did not appeal to me, and I always look for at least a hint of romance wherever I can. It was disappointing. The time period in which this book is in is also a personal favorite of mine.
I did like the concept, it was just too long for me.
My gratitude to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson. "I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Ivy knows how to survive, so when she discovers the secret society of Talon and is trained to become a spy and assassin, which includes learning ballroom dancing, languages, sharpshooting, and demolitions.
She learns how hard it is to balance the world between good and evil as they track the trail of a madman across Russia during WW1.
The Brilliance of Stars does not lack adventure, but towards the end, it lost me, and I think it could’ve been wrapped a lot sooner than it was. I liked the adventure, the chasing of Tsar Balsur, and the exotic location of Russia in the early 1900s but in the end, I just wanted it to end.
I also did not connect with Ivy or Jack, who are the main characters. I found that their romance did not appeal to me, and I always look for at least a hint of romance wherever I can. It was disappointing. The time period in which this book is in is also a personal favorite of mine.
I did like the concept, it was just too long for me.
My gratitude to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson. "I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
May 15, 2025
This book was disappointing to me, because of the bad language sprinkled throughout. If not for that, it could have been “epic,” as it was marketed. Since the ugly language was present, the story fell flat instead.
I did appreciate that the book jumped straight into the action in Russia and that orphans were trained as spies in WWI (I wonder if that was real). Honestly, it feels like we need a civilian-run Talon today.
Content: crude humor, gambling terms, excessive expletives, tobacco, alcohol, breastfeeding, condemn oneself to hell to save someone, excessive profanity
I did appreciate that the book jumped straight into the action in Russia and that orphans were trained as spies in WWI (I wonder if that was real). Honestly, it feels like we need a civilian-run Talon today.
Content: crude humor, gambling terms, excessive expletives, tobacco, alcohol, breastfeeding, condemn oneself to hell to save someone, excessive profanity
July 26, 2023
Historical Mission Impossible.
That's really all my review needs to say. This book was packed with action and adventure, drawing the reader in with descriptions that delighted all of the senses. Spies, espionage, danger, romance, globe trotting characters out to keep the world safe. I loved it all. And can't wait to find out what happens next in book #2.
If you like Marvel or Mission Impossible and historical, turn of the century settings, this is the book for you. Highly recommended.
That's really all my review needs to say. This book was packed with action and adventure, drawing the reader in with descriptions that delighted all of the senses. Spies, espionage, danger, romance, globe trotting characters out to keep the world safe. I loved it all. And can't wait to find out what happens next in book #2.
If you like Marvel or Mission Impossible and historical, turn of the century settings, this is the book for you. Highly recommended.
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