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cobaltbookshelf's review against another edition
3.0
The Stars Between Us may just be one of those books that are hard to describe and review about. I'm not even sure if I could write a decent introductory paragraph, but let's just put it this way: young adult fantasy with vibes of dystopia.
There're a lot to like in this book, but what captivated me the most was the narration and the characters were also really well-rounded.
I especially recommend it to readers who don't read Science Fiction but would love to try it out.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There're a lot to like in this book, but what captivated me the most was the narration and the characters were also really well-rounded.
I especially recommend it to readers who don't read Science Fiction but would love to try it out.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
izzys_internet_bookshelf's review against another edition
3.0
3.5/5
Ok I really enjoyed the world building of this book but I wish there was more, because then I would have felt a little more immersive to me. I loved the characters and plot though
3.5/5 REREAD
Ok so I forgot what this book was about, and it was one I just randomly chose to read. randomly. I found the plot to be hard to remember. There was a lot going on at once sometimes, even thouh the beginning seemed to be slow. The romance in this book was hard to understand and I wish there was more character to these characters.
Ok I really enjoyed the world building of this book but I wish there was more, because then I would have felt a little more immersive to me. I loved the characters and plot though
3.5/5 REREAD
Ok so I forgot what this book was about, and it was one I just randomly chose to read. randomly. I found the plot to be hard to remember. There was a lot going on at once sometimes, even thouh the beginning seemed to be slow. The romance in this book was hard to understand and I wish there was more character to these characters.
heyitsmeg777's review against another edition
4.0
While this book just came out and my review is a bit late, I am definitely glad I got to read this one! It's science fiction, my first love of genres for books, it was a space opera with the perfect dose of mystery, action, romance and humor that makes Soap operas.... well...
You know, DRAMATIC.
Now, onto the chaos.
Short Summary? A Barmaid in a faraway planet gets the news she is to marry the richest heir of one of the richer empires, all to find out that *SPOILER ALERT* he got killed before he met his destination and from there, this barmaid gets swept into a world of glittering courts, crazy chases and stopping bad guys from getting all the power.
Longer Summary: Vika is a simple barmaid who hates her job and hates the planet she lives in more. When she gets a visit from an ambassador informing her that a former tutor recommended her as the perfect bride for the prince who has recently lost his father, her task is to marry a stranger so he can unlock his fortune. In exchange, she can get a better life for her and her family. It should be easy... but not as easy as it actually seems.
When said prince gets caught in an accident (but not really, y'all) that seemingly takes his life away, Vika's life gets thrown into a chaotic series of events as she becomes royalty, one of the most coveted women in the galaxy, and most importantly, a target for those who wish for Vika's death along with anyone who is included in the will for the big fortune.
So... no pressure, right?
I've always loved soap operas and even when they take place in space, it adds more onto the tension and chaos that unfolds which is *chef's kiss*. I loved Vika since page one and some of the other characters like Sky Foster *cough cough, don't get me started with him* keep you going and before you know it, you get pulled in and by the time you're done, you're wondering where your time went, and why it had Marissa Meyer's The Lunar Chronicle vibes too! (Honestly, The Lunar Chronicles and Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff's The Aurora Cycle is what I recommend as similar books in this genre of sci-fi space soap operas!) Although my one issue with it was it being a standalone, I think we can live with some standalone books in our lives.
Overall: 4/5 stars
You know, DRAMATIC.
Now, onto the chaos.
Short Summary? A Barmaid in a faraway planet gets the news she is to marry the richest heir of one of the richer empires, all to find out that *SPOILER ALERT* he got killed before he met his destination and from there, this barmaid gets swept into a world of glittering courts, crazy chases and stopping bad guys from getting all the power.
Longer Summary: Vika is a simple barmaid who hates her job and hates the planet she lives in more. When she gets a visit from an ambassador informing her that a former tutor recommended her as the perfect bride for the prince who has recently lost his father, her task is to marry a stranger so he can unlock his fortune. In exchange, she can get a better life for her and her family. It should be easy... but not as easy as it actually seems.
When said prince gets caught in an accident (but not really, y'all) that seemingly takes his life away, Vika's life gets thrown into a chaotic series of events as she becomes royalty, one of the most coveted women in the galaxy, and most importantly, a target for those who wish for Vika's death along with anyone who is included in the will for the big fortune.
So... no pressure, right?
I've always loved soap operas and even when they take place in space, it adds more onto the tension and chaos that unfolds which is *chef's kiss*. I loved Vika since page one and some of the other characters like Sky Foster *cough cough, don't get me started with him* keep you going and before you know it, you get pulled in and by the time you're done, you're wondering where your time went, and why it had Marissa Meyer's The Lunar Chronicle vibes too! (Honestly, The Lunar Chronicles and Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff's The Aurora Cycle is what I recommend as similar books in this genre of sci-fi space soap operas!) Although my one issue with it was it being a standalone, I think we can live with some standalone books in our lives.
Overall: 4/5 stars
optimisticbooknerd's review against another edition
3.0
3 ⭐
This one I have complicated feelings about. I didn't mind the writing style but the story didn't completely captivate me either. I did really like the futuristic aspect and I think I'll reread this one in the future to give a proper review
Thankyou to Netgalley for allowing me to read this one early
This one I have complicated feelings about. I didn't mind the writing style but the story didn't completely captivate me either. I did really like the futuristic aspect and I think I'll reread this one in the future to give a proper review
Thankyou to Netgalley for allowing me to read this one early
kitsuneheart's review against another edition
4.0
What I thought would be my second arranged marriage book of the month went QUICKLY awry as the potential husband is offed in about the first 30 minutes of the audiobook. So…things were off to an interesting start!
There is a lot of focus in this book on the problems of poverty and what women will do to escape it. Vika had the opportunity to marry herself into wealth, and when she has a taste of comfort as a ward of the SECOND set of Chapin heirs, she determines that she is NOT going back to a life of want.
Her narrative counterpart, Sky, also has thoughts in marriage, love, and wealth, but he’s fallen on another side of the equation: he’d rather have freedom than wealth. So, the two had best stay out of each-other’s way.
…they do not.
All surrounding this main plot of romance and finance is the greater story of economic exploitation between one wealthy planet and its colony. Vika’s family scrapes by as Vika parties it up as the Chapin ward, police brutality lurks in every scene on the colony planet, and a rebellion looks for a foothold to gain freedom.
While the book was a bit predictable, I figure that’s what’s wanted from a romance. The sci-fi of this is really more of a backdrop than a core element, so don’t be scared off if you read in just the romance genre. You could just as easily make the two planets into two islands, and it’d work great. Just set dressing and a bit of ambiance. An enjoyable listen.
Advanced copy provided by the publisher.
There is a lot of focus in this book on the problems of poverty and what women will do to escape it. Vika had the opportunity to marry herself into wealth, and when she has a taste of comfort as a ward of the SECOND set of Chapin heirs, she determines that she is NOT going back to a life of want.
Her narrative counterpart, Sky, also has thoughts in marriage, love, and wealth, but he’s fallen on another side of the equation: he’d rather have freedom than wealth. So, the two had best stay out of each-other’s way.
…they do not.
All surrounding this main plot of romance and finance is the greater story of economic exploitation between one wealthy planet and its colony. Vika’s family scrapes by as Vika parties it up as the Chapin ward, police brutality lurks in every scene on the colony planet, and a rebellion looks for a foothold to gain freedom.
While the book was a bit predictable, I figure that’s what’s wanted from a romance. The sci-fi of this is really more of a backdrop than a core element, so don’t be scared off if you read in just the romance genre. You could just as easily make the two planets into two islands, and it’d work great. Just set dressing and a bit of ambiance. An enjoyable listen.
Advanced copy provided by the publisher.
rakoerose's review against another edition
4.0
I ended up liking this far more than I thought I would! I didn’t think Dickens-esque high society drama would meld with the scifi world, but they complimented each other like salt enhances caramel.
It’s certainly as grandiose and intense as can be expected of that genre of classic. Full of carefully crafted twists and turns and the secret rules one must follow. Vika is thrown into it all after being named in the will of one of the most prestigious men, forced to marry his son to receive a fortune. But the upheavals of her life don’t end there.
If there’s one thing that may turn away potential readers, I think it’s Vika’s temperament in the beginning. She is indeed very selfish and focused on her own issues initially. But, as she acclimates to the society she’s learning is not all the glitter it seems, she grew on me a lot. I think the way she begins as dazzled before becoming more scrutinizing of the way money corrupts was important to show. But her dedication to herself and her causes is what really makes her shine in my eyes!
Sky is a fantastic male lead. The discussions on how he had to repress his emotions and the handling of his awareness that the way his father was toxic to him… and yet loving him and wanting his praise anyway because that’s his dad. Oof. Painful.
I only managed to guess some of the reveals, and not all of them! Yet looking back, those clues stand out in stark relief. It was a satisfying read, which is always nice.
Other reviews here seem to say Terrill’s other work is just as good if not better. And as a lover of high-speed, large-intensity tales, I may have to come around for another look at her catalogue sometime soon!
It’s certainly as grandiose and intense as can be expected of that genre of classic. Full of carefully crafted twists and turns and the secret rules one must follow. Vika is thrown into it all after being named in the will of one of the most prestigious men, forced to marry his son to receive a fortune. But the upheavals of her life don’t end there.
If there’s one thing that may turn away potential readers, I think it’s Vika’s temperament in the beginning. She is indeed very selfish and focused on her own issues initially. But, as she acclimates to the society she’s learning is not all the glitter it seems, she grew on me a lot. I think the way she begins as dazzled before becoming more scrutinizing of the way money corrupts was important to show. But her dedication to herself and her causes is what really makes her shine in my eyes!
Sky is a fantastic male lead. The discussions on how he had to repress his emotions and the handling of his awareness that the way his father was toxic to him… and yet loving him and wanting his praise anyway because that’s his dad. Oof. Painful.
I only managed to guess some of the reveals, and not all of them! Yet looking back, those clues stand out in stark relief. It was a satisfying read, which is always nice.
Other reviews here seem to say Terrill’s other work is just as good if not better. And as a lover of high-speed, large-intensity tales, I may have to come around for another look at her catalogue sometime soon!
beyondevak's review against another edition
5.0
Quick Summary: A dystopian fantasy
My Review: The Stars Between by Cristin Terrill is a 2022 hit, as far as I am concerned. This incredible work of fiction was simply outstanding!
About the Book: Although dire circumstances exist in Vika Hale's life, things are never what they seem. One day, she lives her life like a pauper, and in the next moment, her life is dramatically changed forever.
My Final Say: Why isn't this a movie? It was twisted. It was thrilling. It was lovely. It was heartbreaking. It was plain, old fantastic. I would love to hear this story as an audiobook. It would be insanely good; I already know.
Other: Readers who enjoy YAs with grit and drama will love this story.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: YA/T
Status/Level: ⭐
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (St. Martin's Press, Wednesday Books), and to NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book. It was brilliant. I look forward to reading more from this writer.
My Review: The Stars Between by Cristin Terrill is a 2022 hit, as far as I am concerned. This incredible work of fiction was simply outstanding!
About the Book: Although dire circumstances exist in Vika Hale's life, things are never what they seem. One day, she lives her life like a pauper, and in the next moment, her life is dramatically changed forever.
My Final Say: Why isn't this a movie? It was twisted. It was thrilling. It was lovely. It was heartbreaking. It was plain, old fantastic. I would love to hear this story as an audiobook. It would be insanely good; I already know.
Other: Readers who enjoy YAs with grit and drama will love this story.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: YA/T
Status/Level: ⭐
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (St. Martin's Press, Wednesday Books), and to NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book. It was brilliant. I look forward to reading more from this writer.
ameserole's review against another edition
3.0
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Stars Between Us started off on an interesting note. In it, you will meet Vika. Now she was a character that gave me whiplash. Constantly. For most of this book, she rubbed me the wrong way. Especially after finding out the truth behind her family's "wealth". For the most part, she was pretty selfish and entitled. I also didn't really like how she treated Leo/Sky and thought he deserved way better than her.
Speaking of Leo/Sky, I really liked the guy. Felt horrible for him because he basically chased Vika like a little lost puppy. Don't even get me started on the romance between these two because I have no idea what he saw in her to begin with. Eventually she became a decent and more likable person, but I still think he deserves better.
Other than those two, we do get some mystery and drama throughout. I'll admit that I was a little disappointed with the ending/reveal. For some reason, I was expecting something completely different than what we got. Maybe I'm a little hopeful that these two will work things out and become a stronger couple. Or maybe, just maybe, I'm hoping Leo runs away and finds love elsewhere.
In the end, I'm really happy that I got the chance to jump into this. Will definitely be on the lookout for another book written by Cristin!
The Stars Between Us started off on an interesting note. In it, you will meet Vika. Now she was a character that gave me whiplash. Constantly. For most of this book, she rubbed me the wrong way. Especially after finding out the truth behind her family's "wealth". For the most part, she was pretty selfish and entitled. I also didn't really like how she treated Leo/Sky and thought he deserved way better than her.
Speaking of Leo/Sky, I really liked the guy. Felt horrible for him because he basically chased Vika like a little lost puppy. Don't even get me started on the romance between these two because I have no idea what he saw in her to begin with. Eventually she became a decent and more likable person, but I still think he deserves better.
Other than those two, we do get some mystery and drama throughout. I'll admit that I was a little disappointed with the ending/reveal. For some reason, I was expecting something completely different than what we got. Maybe I'm a little hopeful that these two will work things out and become a stronger couple. Or maybe, just maybe, I'm hoping Leo runs away and finds love elsewhere.
In the end, I'm really happy that I got the chance to jump into this. Will definitely be on the lookout for another book written by Cristin!
cathyatratedreads's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 stars
The Stars Between Us is set where space travel is possible and there are other advanced technologies, but it’s not crucial to the essential plot. It could be set at pretty much any time and place. Two young people find out what’s most important to them, and find each other. They face difficult choices and danger.
I enjoyed it and found myself rooting for our heroine, who is tough and more than a little jaded by what she’s gone through. The setting was a bonus, since space stories tend to hook me. Now I’ll go back and read some of the author’s other books, one of which I already had on my to-read list from a while back!
Read my full review, including a rating for content, at RatedReads.com: https://ratedreads.com/the-stars-between-us-science-fiction-young-adult-book/
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Stars Between Us is set where space travel is possible and there are other advanced technologies, but it’s not crucial to the essential plot. It could be set at pretty much any time and place. Two young people find out what’s most important to them, and find each other. They face difficult choices and danger.
I enjoyed it and found myself rooting for our heroine, who is tough and more than a little jaded by what she’s gone through. The setting was a bonus, since space stories tend to hook me. Now I’ll go back and read some of the author’s other books, one of which I already had on my to-read list from a while back!
Read my full review, including a rating for content, at RatedReads.com: https://ratedreads.com/the-stars-between-us-science-fiction-young-adult-book/
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
smalltownbookmom's review against another edition
4.0
I was 100% drawn to this YA fantasy mystery/romance for the gorgeous cover but was pleasantly surprised by just how much I really enjoyed the story too! Set in space, this was a rags to riches type story featuring Vika, a poor barmaid who was betrothed to a rich heir. When its assumed he dies in a spacecraft crash his family reaches out and offers Vika a place among their household, introducing her to a life of wealth and riches she's only ever dreamt of before.
I loved what a relatable character Vika is! She owns how selfish and avaricious she is and isn't afraid to marry for money if it means helping change her family's circumstances. What she doesn't realize is Sky, the servant boy who turned up mysteriously out of nowhere is hiding a secret identity. While the storyline was a bit predictable I still really enjoyed both the romance and the mystery and thought this was great on audio too! Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
I loved what a relatable character Vika is! She owns how selfish and avaricious she is and isn't afraid to marry for money if it means helping change her family's circumstances. What she doesn't realize is Sky, the servant boy who turned up mysteriously out of nowhere is hiding a secret identity. While the storyline was a bit predictable I still really enjoyed both the romance and the mystery and thought this was great on audio too! Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!