DNF @ 25%

I have taken so long to write this review because I was SO excited about this book, and I didn't really hate it...I just didn't like it? I didn't find myself connecting to the plot or characters, and I found the writing to be very slow. So many people DID love it and I wanted to give it another chance, but it's been four months and I think I need to admit that I'm never going to finish this book.

I think I was really uncomfortable with the initial noncon, and the FMC's starting point was really confusing and bleak, and that made it hard for me to connect to her. I like my FMC's in particular to be strong, and it seemed like this one had reasons to be the way that she was, but it took too long for me to understand them and I just needed a single moment of joy or levity for me to personally connect with the book.

I would recommend it to fantasy readers who have a lot of patience for the plot to start and want to immerse themselves in a really unique world.

I received an eARC of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

I was unsure about this book at first. I'm not a huge fan of vampire books mostly due to the inconsistencies that seem to be inherent in them (for example saying that a vampire let out a breath he/she didn't know they were holding but having previously stated that they did not breath!!!!). However, this book was a pleasant surprise. Not only was it not solely focused on vampires a la Twilight but it also had different types of vampires and kept a lot of the vampire details vague enough to be inconsequential. In this book there are at least two different types of vampires: those who suck your blood and those who steal your soul. I believe that both take away time from your life when feeding but the soul suckers (aka Nightcrawlers) seem to be the most vicious and deadly. They also have Fae, humans and Celestials. The fae are not described in too much detail although we know of at least one by the end of the book who is a shapeshifter. Fae and Celestials were on the wrong side of the war and are either hunted, conscripted into the vampire army via mindcontrol/brainwashing, or are forced into hiding. The Celestials also seem to be hidden behind the veil? Which is only vaguely described as well. This book is about two possibly fated beings who are both each others love and doom (as well as the doom of the world's). They are finding their way back to each other (maybe). One of them remembers everything that has come to pass and the other was reborn and remembers next to nothing. The dynamic is crazy and you are left unsure if you as the reader are being manipulated as well as the characters that you are reading about. The relationships between the characters feels real and have dynamics that leave a reader unsure who they empathize with or whose side they should be on. I haven't read a book in a long time that left on such a potent line as this one did: "I know how you got that scar". Excuse me ma'am but I would like to know too! What do you mean I have to wait for book two!? Also I really enjoyed the extra scenes with Zath/Rose and Nyte at the end as bonus chapters. I cannot wait to read book two!

Imagine spending so much time together with someone that you start to love and trust them completely. They then turn around and use you for their gain and it seems like they never truly loved you in the first place.

What it is about:
Astraea finds herself thrown into a trial that her best friend was supposed to be competing in NOT her. With no memory of her past, but trying to escape her present, Astraea struggles to find who she is, survive, and figure out who she can trust since lies are around every corner. In a world full of vampires, fae, and warring kingdoms, politics rule everyone’s lives.

What I think:
This is a generous 3 stars for the story, which I enjoyed. The writing was difficult to follow, especially at the beginning. While I liked the story, I still wanted/needed more explanation of the world. This book had SO much potential. In the beginning I was automatically rooting for the FMC and was excited to learn more about the world. I might read the next book just to see what happens and if the writing gets better!

2.5/5 ⭐️ finally finished omg. i have a lot of mixed feelings about this one. overall i enjoyed it and will be reading the sequel when it comes out but this definitely wasn’t an “i can’t put this book down” read for me.

i think the biggest drawback was how predictable the plot was at times. there were a couple reveals towards the end that i didn’t see coming and were fun, but for the most part everything felt very in your face and some stuff (being a bit vague here to avoid spoilers) felt too similar to some other popular romantasy series (ACOTAR and from blood and ash come to mind specifically).

i do really like the world and i’m an absolute sucker (no pun intended) for vampires so that was a plus for me. the writing itself was very beautiful imo. i enjoyed that astrea didn’t feel like she annoyingly fixated on problems for way longer than she should like some protagonists tend to in romantasy books, but she did feel overly naïve occasionally and sometimes i was like “girl be real HOW CAN YOU NOT SEE THIS COMING”. god help me i love nyte, but this should
come as no surprise to anyone at all who knows me. the secondary characters also have a special place in my heart (shoutout zath and rose) and i think my love for the characters kept me interested most of the time and got me through some of the predictability and lulls.

it was a good read (… lol?) and i’m looking forward to getting more lore and worldbuilding in the second one because dang i need to know everything that happened to these two please

How have I not read this book sooner. I was captivated from page 1. It was very melancholy the whole time but there were parts that were happier. If you were a fan of The Crowns of Nyaxia series, this is totally for you, but it meets hunger games, meets shadow and bone, but is totally original. I ate this up. Also the MMC is very much giving mystery and like morally grey. Lived for it and the spice was top and not overlly done.

The world and the magic are truly five star elements of this book to me. The plot and character motivations lose me a lot. I really wanted to like this more, but the plot felt like it meandered a lot and that Astraea did not exactly know what was happening a lot. I think Peñaranda did an excellent job discussing the issue of domestic abuse and how Astraea recovers from that.

I am likely going to read the sequel but it may take me a minute to do so.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

I really tried to like this book.... really tried, but couldn't. I read it because I saw the second one was being released and wanted to read the first one first. Obviously. But after reading the first one, I declined the second one.
The cover is beautiful, the title is awesome, the premise is stellar, but those are the ONLY good things about this book. The story is so slow, no real plot, the fmc is all over the place.... I got about half way through, skipped several chapters and still felt like I missed absolutely nothing. There was no connection with any of the characters. Astraea gave off Paris Hilton vibes every time she encounter a new male character: "He's Hot". Really? Just ugh. Gave it a final rating of 1.75 stars and that was being generous.

The Stars Are Dying by Chloe C. Peñaranda is a dark, seductive fantasy that completely pulled me in from the start. With a unique blend of Greek mythology and pulse-pounding romance, this book is perfect for anyone who loves intense, atmospheric stories full of twists, betrayal, and, of course, irresistible vampires.

The protagonist, Astraea, is a complex and intriguing character who is trapped not only by a tyrannical king but by the elusive fragments of her own memories. Her journey to uncover the truth about her past while competing in the dangerous Libertatem trials is captivating, and I found myself invested in every step of her quest. But what really makes this story stand out is the magnetic, dangerous relationship between Astraea and Nyte, the vampire who promises her protection—yet whose motives remain shrouded in mystery. Their chemistry is electric, and the push-pull of trust and desire kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.

Peñaranda’s world-building is rich and immersive, with the dangerous and enigmatic vampires, the political intrigue of the trials, and the constant threat that looms over Astraea’s life. The tension between the dark magic, hidden truths, and the emotional stakes is incredibly well-executed, creating a story that feels both epic and personal.

The Stars Are Dying is the kind of dark fantasy that leaves you eagerly flipping pages, desperate for more. With its breathtaking romance, high-stakes action, and a heroine whose journey is as thrilling as it is heartbreaking, this book is a must-read for fans of seductive, high-stakes fantasy. Chloe C. Peñaranda has crafted a story that’s impossible to put down, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! No spoilers. Beyond amazing I enjoyed this book so very much. The characters and storyline were fantastic. The ending I did not see coming Could not put down nor did I want to. Truly Amazing and appreciated the whole story. This is going to be a must read for many many readers. Maybe even a book club pick.

I think this book has SO much potential. The world-building could be amazing and I think there is a great start for the rest of the series. The pacing (at least for me) was the hardest thing to deal with. I had been almost done with the book for awhile, but forced myself to finally finish it.

It felt like the author wanted the reader to be second-guessing or asking questions, but because of the pace, the questions felt like they weren't ever going to be answered, or too many questions came up that it made me forget what I was reading. The FMC felt like she was lacking a TRUE purpose. Yes, she lost her memories, so logically, you'd think that was what the book would focus around. But the plot felt jumpy, and would focus on side characters, before coming back to the FMC where her 'purpose' changed.

The chemistry/romance was one of the pros for this book. I think she gave them a good chemistry that readers could really fall in love with, which made the characters more relatable.

I think overall, it's possible that book 2 will be better if we have the growth that I think book 1 set up for the FMC.

From the first line of the book, I was obsessed. This is the Romantasy book I have been searching for. A weaving plot you're trying to understand, an immersive world, a morally grey MMC who is vulnerable only with her, a high stakes competition that brings intrigue and puzzles; it's all INCREDIBLE!

Read this if you're in the mood for...
- star crossed love
- morally grey MMC
- forgotten memories
- who did this to you (x4)
- betrayal
- celestials, vampires and far

I can't say enough good things about this book. It's written in such a lyrical way that is beautiful to read but also reflects the celestial nature of the story. The artwork in also gorgeous and adds so much to the moment. I enjoyed the little hints and easter eggs along the way as you try to figure out what happened in the past and watch Astraea struggle to remember. I can't wait to reread this to notice the memories sneaking through when she doesn't realize it (her love of cinnamon has to mean something!!).

Here are a few of my favorite things...
- the prologue! It captured me completely
- how often she called to him but she had no idea she was the one doing it lol
- the bonus chapter from Nyte's pov! I hope we get more of that in the next book
- the kitty! I had a feeling who she was but it loved that addition
- the focus on stars and constellations throughout is such a good fit to the story

I would HIGHLY recommend this book! I can't wait for the next one to come out!

I loves the stars are dying and was so nervous this would end in a disappointing solution that was so built up. Thankfully it wasn't and this is a must read!

2.5 - This unfortunately was a DNF at 40%. I tried to get into the fantasy world but the writing just did not work for me. The hardest thing for me about this book was trying to understand the writing and where the plot of this book was going. I would spend a few chapters trying to figure out what was happening with the story, think I had something figured out, and the next chapter the book would lose all organization. I understand that the author was trying to lead the female main character through a journey of growth and healing, but I often felt as lost as the female main character. This book definitely had potential with the world building, politics, and romance, but unfortunately it just fell flat for me.

Thank you to Bramble Romance for sending me this free book!!

Astraea is an intriguing main character, a girl whose memory has been fragmented. Astraea enters into a bargain with the mysterious character Nyte and trouble ensues. I enjoyed the world building in this book and found it really novel but found the plot quite convoluted and was often confused at times. The ending was intriguing but I'm not certain I'd rush to pick up any future books in this series. Thanks so much to the publishers Tor for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

Title: The Stars are Dying by Chloe C. Peñaranda
Genre: Romantasy
1st Pub Date: July 10, 2023
Repub Date: October 8, 2024
📖 432 pages

❤️‍🔥 Vampires, Shapeshifters + Fae
✨️ Deadly Trials
❤️‍🔥 FBAA x Serpent & the Wings of Night
✨️ World Inspired by Greek Mythology
❤️‍🔥 Tyrannical King
✨️ Found Family
❤️‍🔥 Touch Her and ☠️
✨️ Star Crossed Lovers
❤️‍🔥 Devastating Betrayals

My Review:

This one literally ripped my heart out... a couple of times. If you're a fan of FBAA x The Serpent and the Wings of Night, I highly recommend you add this to your TBR.

Astrea is refreshing— adventurous, headstrong, and not too naive (even with her memory loss). I really appreciate how part of her journey is escaping and abu$ive relationship and learning to cope, as I believe so many readers will resonate with her. I absolutely adore Cassia and how much she loves and supports her friend, and Rath being so loyal despite his position working for her captor.
The trials were so well done. I was worried it would be too much like Hunger Games, but the competitors having to traverse the unknown city, the item they're trying to retrieve and how it correlates to the twists, and the fact that they're fighting for their towns' protection from the vamps was so interesting.

Overall, this was a great read and if you love vampires, morally grey men, great side characters and a FMC who fights for those she loves, this will be a great pick!

Thank you so much, NetGalley and Bramble Romance, for the digital review copy ❣️

Chloe C. Peñaranda's The Stars Are Dying is a bold entry into the realm of fantasy fiction, weaving together lush world-building, complex characters, and a high-stakes narrative. While the novel shines in many aspects, certain elements hold it back from reaching its full potential, resulting in an enjoyable yet uneven reading experience.

What Works:
Peñaranda's prose is undeniably beautiful, often lyrical and evocative. She paints her world with vivid strokes, immersing the reader in settings that feel alive with detail and mystery. The central characters are deeply flawed and multifaceted, making their journeys compelling to follow. Themes of destiny, betrayal, and resilience resonate strongly, lending depth to the narrative.

The book's strongest asset is its ambition. Peñaranda tackles expansive lore and intricate political dynamics with confidence, creating a world that feels both magical and grounded. Fans of slow-burn relationships and morally grey characters will find much to love here, as the tension and stakes between characters simmer enticingly.

What Could Be Improved:
At times, the pacing falters. The novel often gets bogged down in lengthy descriptions and exposition, which, while rich in detail, can slow the story's momentum. Some plot points feel overly convoluted, and certain resolutions lack the punch needed to leave a lasting impact.

Character arcs, while engaging, occasionally feel uneven. Secondary characters fade into the background or serve primarily as plot devices, and moments of emotional payoff are sometimes undermined by the rapid shift to the next plot twist.

Additionally, the intricate world-building, while impressive, can be overwhelming. The novel introduces a plethora of terms, histories, and factions, and readers may find themselves struggling to keep track of it all without a glossary or additional context.

Overall Impression:
The Stars Are Dying is a story that sparkles with promise and offers glimpses of brilliance, but it falls short of delivering a fully polished gem. Chloe C. Peñaranda's talent and vision are evident, and readers who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds with morally complex characters will likely find much to appreciate. However, those looking for tightly paced storytelling and fully developed side plots might feel left wanting.

This is a solid debut that hints at even greater potential in future works, and it's worth picking up for fans of lush, character-driven fantasy willing to navigate its occasional rough edges.

I have mixed feelings tbh. I love a good villain gets the girl story, so I did enjoy aspects of this, but the pacing was really odd and took away from the story.

This was not for me. I really struggled with the fantasy/political storyline. It seemed like the author was trying too hard to do too much. There were vampires, fae, celestials, magic, other unspecified...beings, combinations of all of the above, a competition that was all important and then just didn't matter anymore, a royal system that didn't make any sense... I don't know. I don't mind complicated world building or back story, but I just felt like this was too much. The romance was okay, but that can't carry the whole (long) book. I don't think I'll read more from this author, but maybe others might find this to their taste in a way I didn't.

2.5 stars rounded up to 3

Thanks to Tor Publishing Group | Bramble and NetGalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.