Like several other reviewers, the striking cover led me to believe this was a fantasy, but it's definitely dystopian - being a fan of that genre, however, I wasn't disappointed.

This was more of a slow burn for me.  The first couple of chapters or so were quite confusing, and I wasn't sure if I'd be able to settle in with this book, but once Sev meets Howl and escapes the city, the story found its stride and hooked me.  The intricately layered and original world-building is done well and I enjoyed immersing myself in this world.

Sev is a likable protagonist - flawed, stubborn, bold, and intelligent.  The supporting cast is high in number and suspicion - trust doesn't come easy for Sev or the reader, as it's not made clear whose story is credible.  

As with most books in a series, this ends on a cliffhanger and with several curve balls in the plot, I'll be interested to see where the story goes from here.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC.

I almost put this book down at first...not because of bad writing, but because the basic plot was VERY similar to a book I had just read (thanks to netgalley). Luckily, I stuck with it.

I really enjoyed the story, and the struggle throughout. I loved that she trusted her instincts. I did knock it down one star, though, because though I know she was out of her element and so many things were so confusing after years of propoganda...but the fact that Sevvy just sat around and let things happen while in the mountain drove me up a wall. She didn't get a backbone until it was pretty much too late. She could tell people were hiding things...but didn't push to learn them...she waited for others to spill their guts.

STill...the story moved at a good quick pace, the characters were interesting, and the cliffhanger ended left me right where it (annoyingly) should have....wanting to know what happens next!

Thank you first to Netgalley for the ARC of this book and to the publishers for letting me get first crack at it.
Last Star Burning is a wonderful and dark novel that draws you in. The author builds a world that you can image, smell, and feel the tension in. Apparently, this is the author's first novel, but you can't tell from the writing. I found the entire book to be a wonderful addition to the dystopian genre. It can be hard to follow, but you really have to be paying attention to the details in the book it is important. I hope to read more from this author in the future.

Wowza!
Okay, so I requested this book based off of the cover, and description. I hadn't heard of it beforehand but I am totally glad the cover was awesome, as this book truly was worth the read.
It was a little tough for me in the big, complicated words department (I normally stick to easy YA and middle grades titles due to this) but I did make the attempt to continue forward and it was not a disappointment for sure.
The world building is done exceptionally well. It moved along at the perfect pace...and that protagonist? Perfection. She was tough, but in an awkward funny way - which makes her realistic. We definitely need more females protagonists that are featured in a similar light.
I will absolutely be waiting on book 2...after the ending there needs to be another one. Am I right?

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a digital ARC of “Last Star Burning” by Caitlin Sangster. This is my new favorite book. It felt like a combination of “Hunger Games” and “Divergent” but with an entirely original setting and plot. This book will appeal to those who enjoy romance, fantasy, dystopian, and science fiction. There is a little bit for everyone here!

I had a hard time getting into this book. It seemed to move slowly and took forever to build the backstory. Since I did not finish the book, I do not intend to publish a review.

Dragged way too long and the worldbuilding was underdeveloped. I wanted a better sense of place and time.

**Thank you so much to the publisher for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review!**

I really don't read enough fantasy novels, so I was so excited to be approved for this one on Netgalley. I started it as soon as I could. After starting it, however, I realized that it was a little more sci-fi than I had thought, which was awesome!

I absolutely loved Sev. She was incredibly strong and hilarious. She was even a little awkward at times, which made her really relatable. Plus, there was a great romance.

The ending... let's just say I'm really glad that there's going to be a book two! I can't wait to find out what happens next.

Also, I have to comment on the writing. I don't know what it is about it, but I loved it. I'll definitely be checking out more by Sangster in the future!

My review link will go live on October 6

I enjoyed the first 1/3 of the book but once they got to the Mountain I became bored and frustrated with Sev's inability to ask direct questions or make decisions and act on her own.