A review by stacktheforest
Celestial Bodies: The Black Arts of Vexora by Blane Bellamy

3.0

 I was so lucky to be an ARC reader of Blane Bellamy’s debut novel! This is a bit of a mixed review because there were aspects of this book which I really enjoyed and other that had me considering whether this book was really for me. The end of this book was definitely a highlight and made the whole thing worthwhile! 

 

Let’s start with the positives. I loved the world that Blane built here! It is complex and interesting with a lot to be discovered. The world building was rapid but I was immersed immediately. The way it kept growing throughout the whole book was incredible. I think he has written really strong characters, the two MMCs were super interesting. I loved Daicus’ character and I can’t wait to learn more about him. I also loved Souzie and how she supported Julen but was still a badass the whole time. 

 

Next some criticism. Sadly, I didn’t buy the chemistry between the MMCs and their romantic journey. It felt a bit like an epic friend journey with some unnecessary sex scenes that didn’t add much value to the characters or chemistry. This book could have easily been YA if it dropped the spice; I don’t think the story would have been lost. I was really disappointed that badass Souzie, had a weak romantic storyline when she could have easily been happily flying solo or making the men earn her love with a slow-burn. 

 

I think the writing was a bit clunky but hopefully that improves as the series continues. 

 

Thank-you to the author for providing me an ARC to review. This is my honest opinion.