I read this when it was indie published and can see the differences and changes the author has made for the traditional published story. Things have been pulled out and drawn out less.

"A runaway TikTok sensation, Heavenly Bodies is the first book in a dazzling new romantasy series that blends mythology and shadow magic with a tantalizing enemies-to-lovers romance that will rewrite the stars.

“You know the most dangerous kind of villain? A woman with nothing left to lose.”

In a world ruled by the cruel and merciless Stars, Elara has been cursed by fate. A prophecy promises she will fall for a Star, but that it will kill them both.

So when Ariete, Star of Wrath, War and Chaos, descends to wreak havoc on Elara’s kingdom, she flees her home—the Kingdom of Night—for the neighbouring Helios, Kingdom of Light.

And strides straight into the arms of an enemy prince.

Fearing that Ariete might turn his sights to Helios next, Prince Lorenzo is forced to train Elara as a weapon—one worthy of battling against the tyrannical reign of the Stars. But there are shadows even within the Kingdom of Light—and they threaten to reveal the darkness in Lorenzo’s past and the ancient magic that slumbers in Elara’s veins.

And with it all comes an undeniable, star-crossed pull between Elara and Lorenzo that neither can seem to resist..."

Started out strong, then lagged. Pacing was off at points. Felt like the author was trying to fit EVERYTHING into this book. I wanted to finished cause I thought it would be a fast read but it was soo long. I thought it would be better since I also read the indie published version and I felt like it could have been cut in half.
The premise is still a interesting one, but nothing groundbreaking.

This book was just fine. It didn't revolutionize the genre by any means, but I certainly understand its appeal to a mass audience, and this book will probably sell well if it finds the right traction. It has all of the key components that make a viral romantasy: enemies-to-lovers, romance focus, strong female characters, etc. For me, this book exemplified what happens when books are written primarily to go viral and based around tropes. The end result is a just okay book. From the moment I began to read this book, I knew where it was going. Imani Erriu has undeniable talent, but the nature of this book didn't quite allow it to shine through.

i adore this book and it’s definitely a new all time favorite fantasy romance. i loved imani’s writing style and the world she created. cannot wait to dive into book 2!

In Heavenly Bodies, Imani Erriu presents readers with a dazzling and richly crafted fantasy that balances themes of love, power, and destiny against the backdrop of a world dominated by celestial forces. The narrative centers around Elara, a protagonist marred by prophecy and a sense of fatalism, who must navigate the treacherous terrain of her cursed existence while contending with the threat of Ariete, the formidable Star of Wrath, War, and Chaos. Elara embodies resilience and vulnerability in equal measure. She is acutely aware of the prophecy that looms over her, making her journey one of self-discovery as much as it is about survival. Paired with Prince Lorenzo, the tension between them crackles with an intensity bolstered by the idea of "star-crossed" lovers. Lorenzo, burdened by a shadowy past, is not just a love interest; he emerges as a complex character whose ambition to train Elara as a weapon against the Stars reveals his own struggles for redemption.
The themes of empowerment and overcoming one’s fate are particularly poignant as Elara learns to embrace the magic within her. This journey is not solely about resisting the curse that binds her, but also about claiming her autonomy in a world dictated by the whims of the Stars. This internal conflict is mirrored in her external battles, leading to a riveting climax that challenges the very nature of destiny. I highly recommend this book, It showcases a spellbinding journey that reminds us of the strength found in vulnerability and the intricate dance between light and dark. For those seeking a tale rich in romance, adventure, and fantastical elements, this book is an absolute must-read!

Run, do not not walk to get this book when it becomes avaliable at the bookstore. The stars are gonna pay for their ways and you are gonna want to be in the front row when Moon and the Sun come calling. Such a unique and fresh take on astrology and world building is explained but not overwhelming. The next installment is not coming out soon enough. Take me back to Heliois!

I will still order this book for the library because it is popular and people are requesting it but I personally, did not understand the story. The plot lost me from page to page and while I did read and finish the whole thing, I couldn't tell you a single thing I understood about it.

Thanks for the advanced copy! I read the original book when it first came out, really liked the book! I have also enjoyed the changes she made, while they don’t change the story I can see why they were made. Looking forward to the next ones!