A review by dearhaleynicole
The Lord of Stariel by A.J. Lancaster

adventurous lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

Had wanted to listen to this on Audible for a while and noticed recently that unfortunately it's going off the app at the end of this month, so I wanted to get in a read of it before then! Just finished the book yesterday and have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was full of light fantasy and whimsical elements throughout. I particularly enjoyed the characters and the set up of the world/magic system! The plot did feel a tad predictable at times, but it was never unenjoyable to read. I really appreciated all of the descriptions of the house and land since much of the plot (and magic) centers around it. As for the romance portion of this romantasy read,
I really wanted more. The tension was good between Wyn & Hetta – don't get me wrong – but it took SO long for us to get to them finally just being even a little open with their feelings !! Still, I loved his nickname for her and will continue to swoon over: "My Star" ✨
All that to say, I'm definitely interested in reading the rest of the series based on this first book alone! I really liked the world Lancaster has set up and anxious to learn more about Stariel.

Audiobook-specific comment: I really enjoyed Finty Williams' narration of this book! I've seen other reviewers mention it but she had the portrayed the role of Hetta wonderfully. The posh tone she took on was delightful to listen to, but also gave me all the Bridgerton vibes I so desperately needed to listen to with the anticipation of Bridgerton's new season coming out in the next couple of months.
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