Have I read the best book of 2024? I believe I have.

Dance of Stars and Ashes is the sequel to Heart of Night and Fire. My initial thoughts were “OMG that was divine. I need a reread.” Dance of Stars and Ashes created so much connection, passion and intrigue that I am not ready to be done.

Nisha took her masterfully created world from HONAF and infused passion, humor and an epic war of good and evil. This was an incredible Romantasy (romance + fantasy). The book is equal parts plot and interpersonal relationships. I am saying it’s perfect. If you are looking for a book to ensnare you, pick this one up.

This book has it all:
- Snarky best friends
- Spice
- Elaborate world building
- Humor
- Fate of the world on HER shoulders
- Fated pairs
- Magic
- Romantasy at it’s finest

This is my honest review of an incredible book. I was given an advanced ebook from Second Sky @secondskybooks publishing and Netgalley @netgalley in exchange for a review.

Dance of Stars and Ashes is the second book in the Nightfire Quartet. I have been excitedly anticipating for this book to be published after devouring the first book, Heart of Night and Fire. This is absolutely my favorite book of the year! Dance of Stars and Ashes is such a unique story with rich detail, emotional friendships, adventure, action and suspense that throws the reader into another world. It is so different from all the romantasy books that are currently trending. I couldn't get enough of this slow burn spicy romance. I highly recommend this book and series and I can't wait for the next book.

I was very excited for book 2 of the series and it didn't disappoint. I still don't like some characters, specifically one but that's on me. The slow burn!!! The enemies to lovers! Ah, I really adored everything in this book. The pace was faster than in book 1 so I enjoyed this a little bit even more.

I really can't wait for book 3, the level of angst waiting for us!

I would like to express my gratitude to NetGalley, Bookouture and Second Sky for granting me the opportunity to delve into "A Dance of Stars and Ashes" by Nisha J. Tuli prior to its official release. This installment seamlessly continues the narrative from "Heart of Night and Fire." The book maintains a rapid pace throughout, ensuring an engaging and entertaining experience for the reader.

However, I must address a notable aspect that detracted from my overall enjoyment of the book: the dialogue. Regrettably, I found it lacking in maturity. The choice of words often felt juvenile and, at times, cumbersome to digest. This detracted from the otherwise immersive experience.

In summary, while "A Dance of Stars and Ashes" offers a thrilling continuation of its predecessor's storyline, the dialogue could benefit from refinement. Lengthening and elevating the vocabulary would greatly enhance the reading experience, allowing the narrative to truly shine.

First of all a huge massive thank you to Nisha J. Tuli, the publishers, NetGalley, anyone who had a hand in my getting to read this book early. This book has been one of my most anticipated since I read the first in the series last year and Nisha J. Tuli has quickly become one of my must read authors.

This is the first book I have devoured in awhile. This book picks up close to where the last book left off with Amrita preparing to fulfil her duty after her mother's death. I really felt for Zarya who was preparing to lose one of her best (and only) friends as that relationship would never be the same again.

This book is as action packed as the first and continuing to develop on Zarya's understanding of her own magic and the mending of her relationships with those around her.

Rabin was broody and hot, my earlier thoughts on him were confirmed, but I will give nothing away because this book is well worth a read. Yasen continued to be one of my favourite characters in this book. He is just great.Zarya is and always will be a bit of a bad*ss. She really grew during this book. I love her.

Honestly, I would recommend you give this book a read if you loved ACOTAR and TOG. It has vampire like creatures in it, and like every character is BIPOC. It's a spicy indian-inspired fantasy, what more could you want?

'“Be careful. If anything happens to you now, I won’t survive it.” Then, he reeled her in for a fierce, bruising kiss.'

I'm so happy we didn't have to wait a full year (or even a full 6 months) for this book, hopefully the next one will be out just as fast because the level of ANGST I'm in after that ending...I CAN'T WAIT THAT LONG OKAY.

This was even better than book one, even more fast paced and, the one thing everyone's been waiting for, I'm sure, steamier!!! Or technically speaking, the steam *starts* in this one, but I have no doubt we'll get loads more of it to come. Nobody ever say you can't learn anything from romance books, Zarya sure did. You'll have to read and find out what it is though.

So yes the romance was definitely romancing, the tension was perfect, I had some squeely giggly moments and highlighted a bunch of lines. I'm veeery satisfied with what we got.

There is, of course, a conflict which is a twist in itself and I can't even be mad about it because it was well explained. But listen, if I have to go one more book without these two firmly being together by the end I am going to go insane!!! LET THEM BE HAPPY.

Plot wise we got action, several battle scenes and some answers about Zarya's parents. I love the vanshaj storyline the most, I can't predict how that's going to go down, but I'm excited to see it.

I like that we (seemingly) got to see a portion of the plot tied up, so now they can move on to other issues.

All the characters grew, but as before Yasen, Zarya and Rabin are my absolute faves. I am developing a bit of a soft spot for Row too.

I wasn't going to comment on Vikram because he's kind of irrelevant (it's clear he won't be endgame), but there was a scene where we got to see a different, not so good side of him that's making me wonder if he'll turn into a villain in the next two books...I hope I'm wrong.

Also, be prepared to shed a tear or two, because near the end there's moments where we don't know if some characters survived or not, and sadly some didn't. I'm not telling you who though so don't ask!!

4.5

*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*

This book was better than the first one. I feel like we really get to understand characters and their developments, and there was so much action packed fighting. I really love the magic system in this world. I will definitely be recommending this book to a lot of people and saying that this series is super amazing.

3.5/5

Yasen is actually my favorite character, I love him SO much 😭

Unfortunately, this one kind of fell flat for me compared to the first book. I kind of wish there was more plot and character development rather than the constant action or Zarya’s inner monologue. I think I needed more depth, because I wanted to FEEL more of the angst and sadness and anger and betrayal that’s prevalent throughout the book.

Also, I wish there would have been WAYYYYY more chemistry/depth between Zarya and Rabin. I loved their interactions in the first book, but it felt super rushed/lowkey forced in this one. Also the scar????? What???? There’s SO many other words that could have been used 😭

I do absolutely love the cultural aspects of the magic system and world-building - it’s super unique. I’m excited to see where this story goes!

And finally - thank you so much to NetGalley and Second Sky for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!

Dance of Stars and Ashes
The Nightfire Quartet #2
Fantasy
Nisha J Tuli
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

• ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ • ᴅʀᴀɢᴏɴ ꜱʜɪꜰᴛᴇʀ • ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ •

I couldn't wait to read this book!

The glossary of characters, places and terms at the beginning was great. It meant I could flip back to them at any point if I forgot what something meant or who a certain character was.

The pacing was perfect and I finished reading this book in one sitting.

I loved the characters. I felt sorry for Amrita, she didn't really have a choice about her future and what she had to do for her people. Yasen was a good side character. He was supportive, funny and always had Zarya's back.

There was definitely more spice in this book compared to the first one and it was done well. It actually felt natural and it wasn't forced. I loved how the tension was created through flirting and banter and I liked how Zarya didn't give in to Rabin straight away.

This book was a brilliant sequel and I've completely fallen in love with the world and the characters.

*Thank you to @Netgalley, @nishajtwrites, and @secondsky for providing this ARC. This is my own opinion and an honest review, which I am leaving voluntarily*

Fabulous sequel and the author definitely turns up the heat here in more ways than one ! If you wanted more action in the first book this will have you squealing with glee as Zarya and those around her really start to engage and battle against the blight and demonic activity associated with it. This is clearly inspired by South Asia but with a wholly unique twist and magic that simply amazes .
I'm really enjoying the world building here and if honest I'm still mind boggled by the events that transpire in this book. Zarya is a heroine to get behind and there's a lot ( I mean a LOT ) of steamy scenes with Rabin although I couldn't quite say why but their romance didn't quite grab me . What I really enjoyed was her friendships and how supporting characters especially Yasen just made this fun to read. I'm going to be frank and say I really wanted more about Amrita but I guess as a tree the author wasn't quite sure how to bring her more fully into the limelight. Plus I'm totally bamboozled by the betrayal and deception ( no spoilers ) that brought this episode to a close but so looking forward to what happens next.
This is fantasy that pulls the reader in and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about these characters.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

As I wrote in the review of Heart of Night and Fire this is a fantasy romance series and the fantasy plays the main role and the romance is always a bit a sort of subplot.
I would like to start with the world building: this is a Indian setting with elements taken from the Hindu tradition and I was fascinated by how it was developed and how the magic system worked.
The characters are fleshed out, Zarya is the FMC and I liked her and I'm rooting that she will find her HEA and learn to control her powers.
The author did an excellent job in developing a set of characters who are fleshed and some are quite intriguing. I found the bad guys well done and interesting but there was a good balance and its not a sort of black/white type of stories.
The tightly knitted plot is fast paced and action packed. I had fun and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I'm curious about the rest of the series as there's a lot I want to know.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Second Sky for this ARC, all opinions are min

If you're looking for a rollercoaster ride of action, romance, and South Asian-inspired fantasy, then you definitely need to dive into Nisha J. Tuli's addictive series. From the moment I cracked open the pages, I was hooked!

Tuli's world-building is nothing short of spectacular, weaving together a tapestry of Indian and South Asian cultural influences that immerse you in a vivid, captivating landscape. This is honestly my favourite part of the whole series so far!
I find that Worldbuilding/lush landscape is one thing that can be lacking in the genre of Romantasy but this series does not disappoint.

From the slow-burn romance to the palpable tension and looming darkness, every element feels meticulously crafted to keep you on the edge of your seat.

But what truly sets this series apart are the characters. From the fierce and determined heroine to the enigmatic side characters like Yasen, who effortlessly steals the spotlight, each one is fleshed out with depth and nuance. And let's not forget the found family trope that tug at your heartstrings and the friendships that warm your soul.

Now, onto the romance. While some found it scorching hot, others felt it fell a bit flat. Personally, I was invested in the dynamic between Rabin and Zarya but I have to say that once the spice hit, it felt off for me. I think mainly because the spice just wasn’t for me. But also, I was hoping for more connection beforehand. One moment he’s refusing feelings, then she is, then with little to no explanation, they are all over each other. There is one scene after Zarya talks to the brother that just did not sit right with me too.

where the romance may falter, the plot picks up the slack in spades. With epic battles & betrayals there's never a dull moment. And just when you think you have it all figured out, Tuli throws in enough twists and turns to leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.

In essence, if you're a fan of fantasy that's as rich in cultural detail as it is in heart-pounding action, this series is a must-read.

I loved this book so much the twist at the end totally caught me off guard. I did suspect who the bad guy was going to be there was something about him that I just didn’t like. But the twist and turns to both Vikrams character and also Rabins was shocking. I can’t wait to see what Zarya and Rabins future holds. So so thankful for Yasan. Those who have read this will know. It’s hard not to feel the love and the lose with all of these characters.

4 Stars
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and the second book did not disappoint! I love following these characters, and the tension between Zarya and Rabin is too good. The world building just keeps getting better and I found myself getting heavily invested with the secondary characters as well (I want Yasen to also be my BFF please). I did find that this started off slow for me though it definitely delivered on the spice. Will definitely continue the series because of course I need to know what'll happen next after that reveal at the end!

Thank you NetGalley and Second Sky for the ARC!

This was an amazing follow up to the last book. So many questions answered but so many knew questions asked. I can't wait to see what's next for my new favorite fmc

I enjoyed this even more than book 1... and I loved book 1! The tension? The pining? Exquisite! I CANNOT WAIT to see where the series goes from here. I have so many thoughts, opinions, hopes, and theories and I can't wait to see which come true. Nisha J Tuli remains an auto-buy author for me! The audiobook is fantastic.

She wasn't kidding when she promised this one would heat up. We went from no spice to burning hot. And I am NOT complaining.

I was fortunate enough to snag digital and audiobook ARCs of this title, so I indulged in my favourite reading method: simultaneously listening and reading along. The narrator did an exceptional job, hooking my attention from start to finish.

The storyline keeps getting better and better, the fantasy aspects based on South Asian lore are a great change in scenery from the usual fantasies I've been reading. I can’t wait to see where the narrative leads in future instalments.

Now, the romance, on the other hand, fell flat for me. Rabin was such an enigmatic character in the first book, and I had really high hopes for him. He’s presented as the morally ambiguous male lead I always look forward to, he just didn't do it for me. The dynamic between him and Zarya felt more contentious than affectionate.

On the bright side, the side characters, particularly Yasen, were great. I really enjoyed the redemption arcs of Row and Aarev, though Vik's behaviour left much to be desired. Unfortunately, Amrita lacked any type of personality, which I get it, she’s a tree. But yeah, I wanted a bit more from her.

Overall, for fantasy enthusiasts, this series is a solid choice. But if you're seeking a romance-heavy romantasy, this may not be the ideal pick for you.

Zarya continues her adventures in the city of Dharati, helping fight demons gathering beyond the walls of the city and trying to find a way to push back the blight. As she continues to explore her powers and seek answers about her family, Zarya finds new threats and leans on her friends.

I’m obsessed with Nisha J. Tuli’s writing. She creates fantastical worlds that are so easy to immerse yourself in!

I absolutely loved seeing Zarya’s friendship with Yasen grow in this book. Yasen is one of my favorite side characters and is just so supportive. I also liked the exploration of Zarya’s changing relationship with Amrita as she becomes queen. It was realistic watching their relationship change as one of them entered a new phase of life. I definitely have concerns for Amrita that I’m hoping are resolved in the next book! The slow burn between Zarya and Rabin was so intense! He has so many feelings for her and it was swoon-worthy.

Thank you to the Nisha J. Tuli and Second Sky for the eARC!

I loved this book! 4.25 stars if we’re going to be precise. I enjoyed book 1, (Heart of Night and Fire) but book 2 really brought it home. It was beautifully paced and read so easily, I finished it in two sittings. I thoroughly enjoyed the growing character dynamics and it was nice to see the main character, Zarya, act a little more mature. I did get a bit annoyed with her in book 1 always talking about how she’s an adult now and not a child anymore etc.

Learning a bit more about the connection between Zarya and Rabin was fun and it was nice to see their relationship grow. Even more enjoyable was having Yasen and Row with their concerns and commentaries. We all need a best friend like Yasen! However, I think I’ve read a few more romantasy books than Zarya because girl, I saw this coming a mile away. But I have faith that everything will work out exactly how it’s supposed to… right Nisha?! RIght?!

However, I didn’t expect the main threat/betrayal to come from that particular person. I think it was a successful reveal and also emotionally impactful for the characters. This was someone they respected and trusted for many many years and then to learn the truth… well let’s just give props to karma. I also enjoyed that Nisha didn’t shy away from painful things and we do lose a meaningful character that will assist in Zarya moving forward with her destiny. However, I’m very happy we get to keep the real gem of this series, Yasen. I didn’t believe that we’d lost him for even one second!

I was happy that Nisha wrapped up a lot of the main story arc for books 1 and 2 here. I know there are more books planned but I don’t think I could have handled another major cliffhanger ending here. The story is in a great place to progress and expand the world and I’m wholeheartedly looking forward to it.

The second in this series did not disappointment! If you're fantasy/romantasy lover this is for you. But this second book is for the romantasy girls 👏

Now onto the review. I rated this overall a 4.25 ⭐️

THE WAY I GASPED AT THE ENDING. This is the epitome of you can never trust a fantasy book 😂

The ending was both heart breaking at times, exciting, but then also shocking.

The slow burn was done sooooo well in this. I was screaming at the book so many times for them to get together but then it all happens so perfectly.

I can't wait for more of this series. Zarya continue to prove how much of a bad ass she is. I love that although this is a fantasy book and we have world building, we still get so much character building with Zarya. I love reading about her finding herself and becoming more and more confident. I also appreciate how (most) of the other characters encourage her to keep growing. It was also nice reading about her healing process with other characters as well.

I also think every girl needs a Yasen in their lives.