It is a beautiful romance and very nice to see the two come together. It is also nice to see how the two different times relate to one another. If you are an impatient reader this book may not be your cup of tea. This has more to do with my personality than anything, I am naturally very impatient, and I like to get the good stuff as fast as possible.

Set the Stars Alight is an amazing story in finding the treasures God has for us as we discover our true passions. I adore the cover for Amanda Dykes newest novel Set the Stars Alight. What a beautiful cover! As for the story, I loved learning the past story before the present timeline learned the story. The story opens with us, readers, discovering the characters heart and early passions, then it moves into how those passions guide their future lives and love. Dash is a fascinating hero who loves the stars and everything to do with Lucy; whereas, Lucy wants to discover the reality of what her father's stories mean. As someone who misses her father, I understand the hurt that can take over with a lost parent. The story is interesting, and the writing is wonderful. Overall, Set the Stars Alight is a delightful story with unique characters and unseen twist.

I received a complimentary copy of Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

“The world is dark, so dark we sometimes forget the stars. But they are always there—we need only fight to see these places of brilliant light, these echoes of the truest story.” This book is beautifully written and mirrors the greatest “story” of all time, the story of one who “sets the stars alight.” Definitely one you’ll want to savor. Highly recommended.

Set the Stars Alight was a well-written and had the feel of nostalgia of all that was forgotten, but unfortunately, I was never able to find myself within this story or connect with any of the characters. Its pace was too slow for me, and a lot of it was lost on me. 2.5 stars

Incredibly unique blending of two time periods largely through the use of fables or passed down stories. In the current day thread, Lucy befriends Dashel when they are both young children. They are lonely children and their friendship is a bright light. Lucy's father spins tales for them to enjoy and learn from.

Two hundred years prior there is a young boy, Frederick, that like Dashel feels rather alone in the world.

There is a mystery that bridges these two stories and it was enjoyable to see if unfold. While the contemporary story drew me in quickly, the tale from the past took a bit longer to engage my full interest. Ultimately though, I found myself anxious to see how things would turn out for all of them.

Amanda Dykes’ novel Set the Stars Alight delightfully weaves together stories from two time periods, developing interesting and dynamic characters. In the modern day, after losing touch for a few years, childhood friends marine archaeologist Lucy and astrophysicist Dashel find themselves thrown together to solve the mystery of the sunken ship, the Jubilee. Their research takes them on a historical journey as they discover the long-hidden story of Frederick and Juliette. Full of twists and turns, the mystery spins a tale of sacrificial love both then and now. As a master storyteller, Dykes provides a hard-to-put-down story while marrying the past and the present in a quaint and delightful tale. I look forward to more of Dykes’ novels. She’s my new favorite author.

Note: I received a copy of the novel from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Childhood friends Lucy and Dashel grow up forming treasured memories together. Separated during a time of grief, they go their own ways. Years later, Lucy is now a marine archaeologist and Dashel is a forensic astronomer, they are brought together for the search for the long lost Jubilee, driven by stories from their childhood to find the missing ship.



Two hundred years earlier we also follow the story of childhood sweethearts, as they face war and betrayal.



Timelines entwine in this powerful story of love and redemption.



This book started out slow for me as we are introduced to multiple characters in various situations, but as the dots started to connect I didn't want to put it down. This is my first read from this author, who came to me highly recommended, and this book certainly didn't disappoint! I loved how the story was told through dual timelines, and I was equally invested in both of the stories.



Well developed characters, that are complex. This book is very character driven, as well as plot driven. And I loved Lucy's father and his stories that he told. I also loved the strong faith portrayed in this beautiful and well layered book. A captivating story, poignant and powerful. You won't regret picking this one up, I know I sure don't!



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

One word to describe this book: WONDER. Amanda Dykes has a compelling author's note at the end of this book where she talks about wonder: "an aching word, a thing radiating hope if we will but pay attention and be amazed at the miracles of this life, of this very world."

This book has two stories. One is about Lucy, a marine archeologist, and Dash, a forensic astronomer. After the two childhood friends reconnect, they try to find a ship called the Jubilee, lost in 1811. The other story is about a boy named Frederick, a sailor in 1811. I loved watching how the two stories overlapped, reminding me how stories in history fade and become warped over time. The characters in this book have full hearts, the setting is homey England, and it honestly felt like a cozy Hallmark movie or a book club read. The story moves at a crawling pace though, so you'll need some patience to make it to the end.

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4.5
Plot/Movement: 3
Character Development: 4
Overall: 4

Thank you, Bethany House and NetGalley, for the review copy!

4 1/2 Stars. Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes is a exciting read! Who doesn't love a time-slip novel. I had a little trouble at the beginning but it didn't take long to get into it. Going between the past and the present, getting to know each character makes for a challenge to decide which story line is your favorite. And I still don't know because both are good.

Trying to discover a mystery that took place 200 years earlier; Lucy Clairmont (a marine archaeologist) enlists the help of Dashel an old family friend and a forensic astronomer to help her try to gather enough information to receive a grant to complete her study.

Truths are discovered in the past and in the present, friendships and romance. A great story-I'm looking for more great books from Ms. Dykes.

Amanda Dykes has gifted us with another captivating novel in her latest release, “Set The Stars Alight.”Her lyrical writing style and her eclectic cast of characters really give this story life and breath. I’m am again amazed and the way this author crafts her words to truly place the reader into her stories and allow you to feel and experience what her characters are going through. The themes of wonder and light are used expertly throughout this story to bring both of the storylines together and ultimately point to God the creator of all things. The layered details in this story make it so deep and rich! I loved the hidden gems of Biblical parallels! This book was truly fantastic and is definitely going on my top reads of the year list!

"All stories-the very best ones, anyhow-may be full of fairy tales and nonsense and lore, but if they are to be lasting....they must have truth at their very core."

This enchanting story full of riddles, magic and wonder brings hope and love to two lost souls. Amanda Dykes prose is spellbinding, her pen that of a master storyteller. I felt as if I had slipped into one of the magical books of my childhood, filled with wonder and possibilities.

This is a split time story, one historical, one contemporary. Lucy and Dash's story warmed my heart, one of a childhood filled with the spinning of fairy tales and riddles. Now the marine archeologist and forensic astronomer wonder if these childhood memories could be the key in their search for the answer to a very old riddle? I also loved the allegory hidden amidst Frederick's story.

The secrets of the stars as well as the hidden depths of the earth and its oceans will resonate with readers as they unite two lost souls in search of the answer to a riddle. But beyond the magic, is a story as old as time, filled with an allegory of Truth, that will fill the hidden recesses of one's soul. Amanda Dyke's unique voice will captivate readers. This definitely belongs on the keeper shelf!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Dykes is a new author to me, whose language, pacing and story-telling reminded me of the classic writings of George MacDonald. Once settled into the style, I thoroughly enjoyed discovering, along with the characters, what happened to the ship, Jubilee. Lucy and Dash bring interesting areas of expertise - marine archaeology and forensic astronomy - to try to locate the prison ship that disappeared in 1811 with a traitor on board. The parallel story of Frederick and how he came to be on the Jubilee is alive with historical detail. Most important for all characters is the power of story, which is fitting as this story will stay with you. Recommend this to readers who love lyrical writing and a touch of magical realism, being sure they aren’t expecting a high-speed adventure. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for a review copy. Opinions expressed are my own.

“‘We keep the stories.’ He said we pass them on-it is our duty . . . and our honor. In a world as dark as this, people forget how to see the light, so we need to remind them by telling the truth, paying attention . . . setting the stars alight.”
What powerful words!
I have found this whole book is full of words like this. Amanda Dykes is a truly gifted author. She writes dual-time books in such a way that they blend in a seamless fashion. Her stories are brimming with words that are so descriptive and etiquette they will capture you and keep you reading until the very end.
From the very first page to the end, this book had me captivated and wanting to read more. I didn’t want to put it down. It really was a book I kept thinking, “just one more page!” and hours later realizing I needed to go to bed. But also, not wanting to finish it because I felt a part of the story.
In this book, Amanda Dykes has written a beautiful story of many people’s lives all intertwined and deeply touched by loss, mystery, honor, and sweet love. It touched me to the core of my being.
I loved the whole idea of story-telling and how it can change a person’s life.
This story took me on an adventure digging deep into the life of a sailor and the life of one set in the stars.
It’s also a story where we find how one life can make a difference in many lives. One choice can change many things, like a ripple in time. We all have the ability to influence those around us and those to come.
This story will sit in my heart for days to come. I highly recommend you pick it up and reach for the stars.
I was given this book by the publisher and NetGalley which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

I enjoyed this time slip novel from present to past with awesome characters and a wonderful plot.
Dykes sure knows how to draw her readers in from the beginning until the end.
Her writing is very beautiful!
I think what I really liked about this book was how the generations of Lucy's family was woven in to be believable and realistic.
A very entertaining story that will make you want to keep turning the pages of this book until you are finished.
I didn't want the book to end it was so good!
I really loved this quote " To Remember the God who is coming and coming and coming to find your heart" he'd said. Wherever you are, whatever's happened. With every miracle that around every ordinary corner. It did not feel like he was riddling them, only continuing his nightly stories.
I believe what he's telling Lucy is that God knows what is inside her heart all the time and that he's coming again.

This is a perfect example of storytelling, magic wonder. Great story building catching the readers interest at its first sentence. An intriguing story of wander, wonder, love and perseverance. The author brings to life and gives light to the story through vivacious Lucy, showing the power and struggles of friendship and life in general. A must read!

I first encountered Amanda Dykes BEAUTIFUL storytelling when I read "Whose Waves These Are" which was my favorite book of the 75 books I read that year, so to say I was excited to read "Set the Stars Alight" is an understatement. This beautiful story stretches the imagination and is lovely in every way.

I had no idea where the story would take me and I cheerfully and willingly, with pleasure went along for the ride and was completely enchanted. If I had to use three words to describe, I would choose lovely, lyrical, and lessons. Lucy's parents helped to form an enchanting tapestry of stories and truths to which Lucy and Dash could build on.

In the author's notes at the end of the book, Amanda Dykes says "Pay attention. May we all stretch toward the wonders around us May we pause to think on their significance." That is my big takeaway from this brilliant story.

Oh my goodness, This book has touched my heart in such a way...I have no words.

Amanda, if you ever read this, I just want to say THANK YOU. Thank you for writing such a beautiful story of hope and light.

I don't even know where to start. I just merely finished reading the book a couple of minutes ago, and I'm still trying to process everything.

I could never have imagined that a split time story could be this powerful...could be weaved so beautifully the past and the present, like melody and harmony, creating a beautiful story of wonder.

The story starts with the life of Lucy, a little girl named after the light, one who dreams of dragon liars and of adventures sailing the seas galore. Yet she lives a quiet life listening to her father, the watchmaker, stories by the fire and surrounded by the tender care of her mother, the three of them living in their little glass house in London.

Then one day a lost boy with huge round rim glasses and messy hair filters into their lives, filling it with star wonder, galaxies and nebulae, opening doors to hidden worlds thought his telescope. He becomes part of the watchmaker's family, the best friend Lucy never had, and they grow together, imagining their castles in the sky, planning their future, always drinking the wonders of the universe in their own simple little ways.

At the same time, we have the story of another lost boy, though his story is set far away in time from Lucy's and Dash's.

It is the 1800's and among wealth and prestige, a boy is being raised to conquer seas, to bring honor and glory to his family. But he is broken, lost, void of the things that makes everyone's hearts tick, love.

But then, the stars guide him to meet a shepherd, a girl, and a stubborn boy. It is then that he makes a vow, to protect them, to be there for them, to even give their life for this family he couldn't call his own.

Because he has made a mistake, a terrible error he would never forgive himself from, one that would hunt him to the grave, and maybe, just maybe, the nightmares would ease if he pledged himself to them. To the girl with wings made for the sun.

The story of these pairs of friends progress in time though the book, we see friends grow together, friends drift apart, friends unite... yet the stars are always the ones to bring them home. To shine the story, the Creator wrote for them since the beginning, one of hope, wonder, and light.

Oh, guys, I can't-

This story has made me so emotional. It is so beautiful, so deep.

When I first started reading it, I had no idea how Amanda would be able to bring both stories together. Yet she did marvelously.

The faith message in the book is also beautiful. To think God has written the story of our lives, that nothing happens because of luck, that everything was carefully planned by him, the Creator of the galaxies and of you.

The story is slow, but at the same time, I think I can't imagine it any other way. It brings a certain charm to it. It makes it peaceful, not rushed.

Because of the pacing, the book seems long, just a heads up for the readers who like their fast-paced books.

Amanda's writing is so beautiful, deep yet poetical, but at the same time engaging. It draws you into the story makes you feel so many things for the characters.

The characters were also superb. Each one was crafted with a unique voice and was not put on the page without a purpose. They stirred the plot forward, and sprinkled the book with light.

Set the Stars Alight will hold a special place in my heart.

I will say, the synopsis doesn't make the book justice. Yet, I can't think of one that will...It is one of those books that holds too much wonder and light in it, the only way for you to savor it is by reading it yourself.


Again, thank you, Amanda.



Cleanness: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 (Glad to say this book is so so clean...Squeaky clean 😂❤️)

Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5

Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5



*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. All thought are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.*

I can’t shake the feeling that we’ve somehow found ourselves right smack in the middle of one of his tales. But instead of hearing it, we’re living it.
- Amanda Dykes, Set the Stars Alight.
•
This was a beautiful story told in a very atmospheric and enchanting way. While I can appreciate the beauty of this story, it isn’t my usual style. It’s a very slow moving book and felt a bit confusing at times. I have a rather impatient personality, so I know other, more patient readers, would appreciate this story far more then I did. That is a reflection of me personally and not this book.
•
We are following 2 separate timelines, set 200 years apart. Both stories are quite unique and interesting. As we continue through the book we find out how these stories are connected to each other.
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It’s quite funny, because in the beginning I was all for Lucy and Dashel’s 2020 story line, a ‘lost’ boy found by a quirky family. A treasured friendship between 2 souls who just clicked. So I found it frustrating to switch over to Frederick’s 1800’s chapters, another boy on a journey of self discovery who’s simple decisions impacted his entire life. By the end of the book I had really reversed my preferences and loved reading Fredericks story.
•
For me personally, I found I wanted more from the book. I am definitely a character driven reader and I found some super interesting and complex characters in this book. I just wanted more from them. I found that the conversations were often kept very brief and I was left wondering why.
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The concept of the overall story was very intriguing and unique but I would have liked a little more from the ending.
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This is a wonderful story that I believe will appeal to many people. Particularly those who enjoy a slower, more whimsical read.

This book is exquisitely written, moving beyond all words. The author has a special gift in drawing the reader in from the first few pages. My life has been touched by this beautiful story of love, grace and redemption.

Set the Stars Alight is hands down my top fiction read of Q2 2020. I came a bit late to the game with Whose Waves These Are (Dykes' first novel); when I did make it there, I knew it was something special. So I might have jumped a little too happily at the chance to read Set the Stars Alight!

The two books are standalone; feel free to read either first. I guarantee once you read one, you'll want to read the other immediately!

Dykes has a way with words that I've not experienced in many other authors. She writes lyrically, poetically--and makes this reader, anyway, vacillate between wanting to speed ahead and find out what happens next, and read ever so slowly to savor every word. (The perennial conundrum of wanting to have one's cake and eat it too?!)

I loved that certain things I thought would happen didn't. I don't say that often, but it's true here; I was happily proved wrong and left far more satisfied than if I'd been right. Whew. (This non-English major fears that when something is super obvious to me, it's going to be even more obvious to a lot more people. So yay.)

Having been to Greenwich on my last British adventure, I loved revisiting the Prime Meridian and other notable places of interest in this book. Dykes truly brought each location to life! (And can I please visit Stone's Throw now?) The mystery around the HMS Jubilee proved fascinating, and resolved even better than I envisioned.

Excellent, excellent read. I think I'll go read it again now, hmm?

I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.