A review by irenetrexqueen
The Stars Undying by Emery Robin

challenging slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

2.0

Before I get into the review, please have a bit of background: 

My grandfather’s favorite movie was Cleopatra, not the one many know from 1963, but the 1934 black and white piece starring Claudette Colbert. After he passed, I clutched onto that film as a small piece of him that I could say we had in common. Throughout the years I found Cleopatra a bit of a hero, and yes, I am well aware I am not unique in this. I speak of this more to show how I have way too much knowledge about the subject and partially explains why I found this book not to my taste. 

I have said it many times, I am not a huge fan of romances. I would rather watch a movie than read about it in a book. I think no less of those who like romance, it is just not a genre I find excitement in. 

Review: 

Have you ever watched the 1963 Cleopatra and thought this is great but what if it was in space, Anthony was a female, and there were more politics? If so, this is the book for you. 

There was so much promise in this with the use of space and sci-fi technology, but it really is rarely used—so much potential lost. 

My knowledge around the subject is honestly too much and with this book going ALMOST beat for beat like that of historic events, but again in space it makes it only a repeat of what I already know. Even at 2x speed, I was so bored and waiting for something to happen, but so little did. After the first events of the queen fighting for her throne is over be ready for an EPIC section around of politics with a few scenes fading to black or distant spice. 

What truly got me about this is the fact it was full of so much *filler* yet leaves on a “cliffhanger” to make those liking it have to come back for the second half of this tale. 

I understand the appeal of this book, truly but it is not for me.