A review by tapestryofwords
Stardust in Their Veins by Laura Sebastian

3.0

3.5 stars. I found this book to be a lot slower than the first, Castles in Their Bones , and unfortunately seemed to suffer from "second book syndrome." A lot of the story this time around was just conversations about who knows what and who's going to do what , and without a lot of the actual doing happening. There are a few major plot points (particularly towards the end), but I don't think this book needed to be anywhere near 500+ pages. I think about 200 pages of dialogue and rehashing information could have been cut out. As it was, I felt like I had to push myself to keep going at times.

That said, I did enjoy getting to better understand Beatriz's powers and their cost, and seeing both Beatriz and Daphne mature. My favourite of the three sisters in book 1 was Sophronia, for her kind heart, and in book 2 it is Beatriz, for her sassy and fearless attitude. Perhaps in book 3 my favourite will be Daphne?

I also really like that this series showcases all sorts of relationships; so many books focus on romance to the exclusion of all else. I think the friendship and strong bond that has developed between Beatriz and Pasquale is really sweet, and I'm hoping Daphne and Cliona will develop a more trustworthy alliance/friendship in book 3.

Also, I'm so rooting for the daughters to take their mother down. The Empress is despicable, and it's incredibly frustrating that she's always one step ahead!