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yourbookishbff's review
adventurous
dark
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The Stardust Thief is one of my favorite reads of 2022 and one of the best fantasies that I've read in several years (specifically, it is one of the best series starts as well - lays a fantastic foundation for the trilogy). I read this one after reading a lot of Celtic inspired fantasy, and it felt like an invitation to an entirely new world and history. The emphasis on oral storytelling, the retooling of One Thousand and One Nights, the inversion of common character archetypes - it was all executed so skillfully by Abdullah that each twist was deserved and each character felt rich. My biggest frustration when I read fantasy is when authors use omission to create plot tension (I need SOME plot threads, please!), and I never felt frustrated or misled in this. Abdullah introduces new layers of complexity into her system of magic as she reveals expanded backstories for each character, weaving each together so seamlessly that you never lose interest in the quest or feel lost as a reader. And Qadir. Qadir is such a grounding force in Loulie's life and evolution, and I just loved his character so much. The ending was transporting, opening up an entirely new chapter for the start of the second book - I cannot wait to continue this story.
I would recommend The Stardust Thief to anyone who enjoys epic fantasy and loves the promise of a new series. I would note that this is graphically violent (confinement, kidnap, torture and murder).
I would recommend The Stardust Thief to anyone who enjoys epic fantasy and loves the promise of a new series. I would note that this is graphically violent (confinement, kidnap, torture and murder).
Content Warnings
Moderate: Torture
fromjuliereads's review
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I really loved this book! The characters - Qadir is a new favourite that I am obsessed with, Loulie is amazing and relatable, Aisha is a badass, and I really like Mazen. The worldbuilding, the magic, everything was so fantastic! I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Blood, Death, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, Grief, Injury/Injury detail, Mental illness, Murder, Misogyny, Torture, and Violence
onthesamepage's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You know that feeling when you're reading a book, and you're so immersed in the story, and when it ends there's nothing you can think of that would have made it a better reading experience for you?
Yeah, that's this book.
We follow three different POVs: Loulie, the Midnight Merchant, who finds old relics and makes a living selling them on the black market, Mazen, the prince who longs for the adventures he hears about in stories but is stuck in the palace, and Aisha, one of the infamous forty thieves. All of the perspectives are interesting, and I never found myself wanting to skip over one of the characters so I could get more of a different one. The pacing of the story is great, even though the book is on the large side, and the stakes get really high. I had a few "oh, shit" moments while reading this. The quality of the writing is excellent too. I also loved the short stories within the story, where we get to learn more about the folklore surrounding the jinn. Overall, I'm really impressed with this debut.
All the characters quickly endeared themselves to me, although it took me a bit longer to warm up to Aisha. I loved the dynamic among them, but my favourite was always going to be the bond between Qadir and Loulie. There were so many moments that made me want to hug them, and the book. The other notable thing is the lack of romance. The only whiff of it is between Loulie and Ahmed bin Walid, a side character, but it's very slight, which was honestly refreshing, even though I liked their relationship as well.
The shining star of this book is the setting and the Arab representation. Chelsea Abdullah doesn't coddle anyone, and that made me so happy. Characters frequently use Arabic phrases, the food was familiar, the garments were familiar, and she even spells Arabic words out in the Arabic alphabet! Not to mention the hints of 1001 Nights sprinkled throughout, from references to the king of the forty thieves, to the jinn in the lamp. Even though it was a fantasy world, it felt comforting, and a bit like home.
Despite the presence of jinn in the story, there are no references to Islam in this world (although one character is named Ahmed, which is a Muslim name, but I guess that on its own doesn't necessarily mean anything).
You know that feeling when you're reading a book, and you're so immersed in the story, and when it ends there's nothing you can think of that would have made it a better reading experience for you?
Yeah, that's this book.
We follow three different POVs: Loulie, the Midnight Merchant, who finds old relics and makes a living selling them on the black market, Mazen, the prince who longs for the adventures he hears about in stories but is stuck in the palace, and Aisha, one of the infamous forty thieves. All of the perspectives are interesting, and I never found myself wanting to skip over one of the characters so I could get more of a different one. The pacing of the story is great, even though the book is on the large side, and the stakes get really high. I had a few "oh, shit" moments while reading this. The quality of the writing is excellent too. I also loved the short stories within the story, where we get to learn more about the folklore surrounding the jinn. Overall, I'm really impressed with this debut.
All the characters quickly endeared themselves to me, although it took me a bit longer to warm up to Aisha. I loved the dynamic among them, but my favourite was always going to be the bond between Qadir and Loulie. There were so many moments that made me want to hug them, and the book. The other notable thing is the lack of romance. The only whiff of it is between Loulie and Ahmed bin Walid, a side character, but it's very slight, which was honestly refreshing, even though I liked their relationship as well.
The shining star of this book is the setting and the Arab representation. Chelsea Abdullah doesn't coddle anyone, and that made me so happy. Characters frequently use Arabic phrases, the food was familiar, the garments were familiar, and she even spells Arabic words out in the Arabic alphabet! Not to mention the hints of 1001 Nights sprinkled throughout, from references to the king of the forty thieves, to the jinn in the lamp. Even though it was a fantasy world, it felt comforting, and a bit like home.
Despite the presence of jinn in the story, there are no references to Islam in this world (although one character is named Ahmed, which is a Muslim name, but I guess that on its own doesn't necessarily mean anything).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Torture, Violence, and Murder
azrah786's review
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
4.5
[This review can also be found on my BLOG]
**I received a proof copy from Orbit Books UK in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, blood, injury, kidnapping, torture, murder, death, child death, death of parent, grief, confinement
--
If you’re craving an adventure in a whole new world then look no further!
Inspired by the stories from One Thousand and One Nights, The Stardust Thief is the entrancing first novel in an all new trilogy that reimagines and entwines the tales and legends anew.
We follow Loulie Al Nazari and her bodyguard Qadir, a merchant and jinn (sometimes lizard companion) duo who make a living by travelling the lands tracking and selling magical relics – a dangerous occupation in a world where such items are illegal and where jinn are hunted for the magic in their blood.
Despite the outlawed nature of her trade her infamous reputation comes to the attention of the Sultan, who once she is captured offers her her life in exchange for her services to locate a lamp, an ancient relic with immense power. The company of the Sultan’s son and a member of the Forty Thieves is also part of the deal and so the 4 of them embark on their quest across the Sandsea desert and all the perils it has to offer.
**I received a proof copy from Orbit Books UK in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, blood, injury, kidnapping, torture, murder, death, child death, death of parent, grief, confinement
--
If you’re craving an adventure in a whole new world then look no further!
Inspired by the stories from One Thousand and One Nights, The Stardust Thief is the entrancing first novel in an all new trilogy that reimagines and entwines the tales and legends anew.
We follow Loulie Al Nazari and her bodyguard Qadir, a merchant and jinn (sometimes lizard companion) duo who make a living by travelling the lands tracking and selling magical relics – a dangerous occupation in a world where such items are illegal and where jinn are hunted for the magic in their blood.
Despite the outlawed nature of her trade her infamous reputation comes to the attention of the Sultan, who once she is captured offers her her life in exchange for her services to locate a lamp, an ancient relic with immense power. The company of the Sultan’s son and a member of the Forty Thieves is also part of the deal and so the 4 of them embark on their quest across the Sandsea desert and all the perils it has to offer.
"Some things are out of our control. You know that just as well as I. All we can do is make choices based on the cards fate deals us."
Fast paced and addictive, Abdullah’s narration immediately draws you in to a world full of magic, myths and mayhem that anyone who has ever enjoyed a previous rendition of these classic stories and mythologies will instantly warm to. However, the atmosphere and settings in this book evokes much more authenticity and I think this comes down to Abdullah’s love for her own culture as well as her love for stories and storytelling which shines through the writing.
The best multi POV stories are the ones that keep you hooked on all the character perspectives and for me this was definitely one of those. Loulie, Mazen and Aisha each have a distinctive voice and I found myself loving them all (and I love Qadir too of course.) It was particularly inspiring to see their perseverance through the challenges on their journey, the truths and lies that get uncovered on the way and also when coming to terms with their individual vulnerabilities.
"We're all afraid Prince. The only difference between a hero and a coward is that one forgets their fear and fights, while the other succumbs to it and flees."
Just as compelling are the character relationships which Abdullah has developed beautifully. The dynamic between the leading trio and Qadir is really fun, equal parts wariness and banter that eventually reaches a borderline found family feel and I can’t wait to see how this develops further in the rest of the series. I even found myself totally invested in the relationships with minor characters such as Mazen and his brother Hakim and even Loulie and Ahmed. However, the most endearing relationship which I know everyone will agree with is the one between Loulie and Qadir. I honestly love it so much when there is a wholesome platonic duo at the heart of a book.
What was also pretty great was the little interludes of story interspersed amongst all the action and carefully plotted twists and reveals at times when a character is recalling a tale from legend. This not only further celebrated the art of storytelling but also touched on the themes and idea of how key details in accounts and histories can be lost and consciously distorted over time.
All in all a fantastic and highly enjoyable debut and I can’t wait to come back to this world and continue to follow these characters on the adventures Chelsea Abdullah has in store for them next!
Final Rating – 4.5/5 Stars
Content Warnings
Moderate: Torture, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail, Death, Child death, Confinement, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Death of parent, and Grief
bookishbasma's review
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Okay, this book. Prepare to be SICK of me. I'm going to be insufferable now that I've found more Arab rep. I will simply never shut up about it.
Let's talk Arab/MENA rep. I can count on one hand the books I feel represented in as an Arab. This book is an EXCELLENT addition to that list. I tabbed every word of Arabic and ended up running out of tabs. There's a thrill in seeing the words you speak on the pages you're reading. It never gets old. This book DELIVERED on Arab representation. Like the names of the characters in this book?? Are the names of my brother, my cousin, my friends. I felt seen and ready to take on the world after reading this. BRB gonna go prep my Loulie cosplay.
The book itself is a solid debut. The characters are fantastic (I am officially a Qadir stan) and their dynamic on page was so fun to read. While four POVs might sound like a lot, I truly enjoyed every single one and seeing their perspectives of each other is refreshing. I will say, I am SO here for the dramatic, lowkey himbo, main guy character trend that I've been seeing (first Kamran from This Woven Kingdom, now Mazen). If this is the YA community moving away from the "dark and broody", consider me on board.
The strongest aspect of this book is the world and magic system. It was developed so well and the references to old legends (as well as actual stories inserted) made for a magical and rich reading. I understood the magic system really well, and the reveals were done nicely. I did get a little lost with the plot at one point (hence the 4.5 rating) but the twists and turns were fun to read, even when I was ready to throw my book across the room.
Highly recommend preordering this one!
I received an arc of this title from Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review.
Let's talk Arab/MENA rep. I can count on one hand the books I feel represented in as an Arab. This book is an EXCELLENT addition to that list. I tabbed every word of Arabic and ended up running out of tabs. There's a thrill in seeing the words you speak on the pages you're reading. It never gets old. This book DELIVERED on Arab representation. Like the names of the characters in this book?? Are the names of my brother, my cousin, my friends. I felt seen and ready to take on the world after reading this. BRB gonna go prep my Loulie cosplay.
The book itself is a solid debut. The characters are fantastic (I am officially a Qadir stan) and their dynamic on page was so fun to read. While four POVs might sound like a lot, I truly enjoyed every single one and seeing their perspectives of each other is refreshing. I will say, I am SO here for the dramatic, lowkey himbo, main guy character trend that I've been seeing (first Kamran from This Woven Kingdom, now Mazen). If this is the YA community moving away from the "dark and broody", consider me on board.
The strongest aspect of this book is the world and magic system. It was developed so well and the references to old legends (as well as actual stories inserted) made for a magical and rich reading. I understood the magic system really well, and the reveals were done nicely. I did get a little lost with the plot at one point (hence the 4.5 rating) but the twists and turns were fun to read, even when I was ready to throw my book across the room.
Highly recommend preordering this one!
I received an arc of this title from Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence, Murder, Torture, and Grief
poppywarphan's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The Stardust thief is a wonderful and enchanting fantasy inspired by stories from One Thousand and One Nights. The author did a fantastic job at subtly weaving the tales into the story.
DUDES WITH EARRINGS ALERT! 😏
It was so refreshing to have a male character who's not a muscular macho warrior. Mazen is ahimbo curious prince who loves stories. Loulie or Layla is the midnight merchant who sells relics (objects with magical powers). “I would rather marry a dust-covered relic than a man,” Loulie, mood. She travels with Qadir who is a dilf, her jinn bodyguard and father figure.
“You rely on me, but I also rely on you. We are a team, you and I.”
“You are the most courageous person I know, Loulie al-Nazari. Without you, I would still be aimlessly wandering the desert, lost in my grief. You are not weak. That is why I follow where you walk: because I trust you.”
“The compass led me to you, and it is with you I shall stay until destiny demands we part ways.”
Tell me this isn't the most beautiful thing in the world 😭.
Loulie is brought before the sultan, and he blackmails her into going on a quest to find a relic, to which a powerful jinn is bound. He appoints his son Omar, a jinn hunter, to supervise her. It is actually Mazen who joins her—in return for a favor from Omar—disguised as his brother (with the help of a relic), and Aisha, a badass woman as well as one of Omar's 40 thieves. They travel into the desert and face many dangerous creatures. At the end, we find out who the true villain of the story is, that fucks everything up.
We never really get Loulie's and Ahmed's backstory, so I'm missing a bit of context there. And to the Stardust thief, I hope both sides of his pillow are warm.
Can't wait for the next installment. I've recently finished The city of brass, so if you're looking for similar vibes I'd definitely recommend The stardust thief.
Arc provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
DUDES WITH EARRINGS ALERT! 😏
It was so refreshing to have a male character who's not a muscular macho warrior. Mazen is a
“You rely on me, but I also rely on you. We are a team, you and I.”
“You are the most courageous person I know, Loulie al-Nazari. Without you, I would still be aimlessly wandering the desert, lost in my grief. You are not weak. That is why I follow where you walk: because I trust you.”
“The compass led me to you, and it is with you I shall stay until destiny demands we part ways.”
Tell me this isn't the most beautiful thing in the world 😭.
Loulie is brought before the sultan, and he blackmails her into going on a quest to find a relic, to which a powerful jinn is bound. He appoints his son Omar, a jinn hunter, to supervise her. It is actually Mazen who joins her—in return for a favor from Omar—disguised as his brother (with the help of a relic), and Aisha, a badass woman as well as one of Omar's 40 thieves. They travel into the desert and face many dangerous creatures. At the end, we find out who the true villain of the story is, that fucks everything up.
We never really get Loulie's and Ahmed's backstory, so I'm missing a bit of context there. And to the Stardust thief, I hope both sides of his pillow are warm.
Can't wait for the next installment. I've recently finished The city of brass, so if you're looking for similar vibes I'd definitely recommend The stardust thief.
Arc provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Blood, Injury/Injury detail, Murder, Violence, and Death
Minor: Fire/Fire injury, Child death, Child abuse, Death of parent, Grief, and Torture
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