I really liked this. It was nice to read a book that doesn't display the female lead character as a helpless or stubborn child. Plot was exciting and kept my attention well.

A big thanks to NetGalley and E.L. Lyons for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

You know what I appreciate, authors that list out all of their content and trigger warnings. INCLUDING one about the fate a animal character. Thank you, Lyons I appreciate and respect you.

Starlight Jewel by E.L. Lyons is a fantasy novel about Axly who, like all hybrids, is Company property—from the rings on her fingers to her woody bones and the skin that covers them. Her rank as the Starlight Jewel affords her some freedom in the city of Minalav, where the hybrids of the Starlight Company follow a code to keep balance between humans and sprygans. Axly isn’t bound by this code, especially when it conflicts with protecting her human half-brother. She’ll do anything to keep him safe—even if it means damaging company property or destroying Minalav’s balance to do it. General Arthur Grimwalt is only in Minalav to secure a deal to protect his country, not be romanced and robbed by the infamous Starlight Palace’s lavish balls. Securing such a deal has left Grim with more than he bargained for and vague memories as to how it happened. If the Starlight Company won’t let Axly go, then she’ll give the gluttons what they want and more. No one leaves this tale unscathed.

I cannot stop recommending this book to people. The characters are fantastic and dynamic, the plot, though slow at times due to the need for world building, was top notch and kept me guessing at every turn, and the setting *chef's kiss*. I instantly fell in love with this world and especially with *excluded for spoilerly reasons.* I can't wait to get my hands on book two, and perhaps I will be foaming at the mouth until then.