Fia's subservient existence is interrupted when her village is rampaged and her brother, Castus, is taken. In her haste to find him, she is dragged through a harrowing ordeal that leads her to an imposing academy, her own kind, and the dangerously powerful leader, Aratah. Now that he's found her, what devious plans did he have in store for her? And would he truly be willing to help her find her brother? What would she have to do to get him to help her? 

This whole new way of life had her opening her eyes wide in fascination and trepidation to all of the things she never knew existed before leaving her village. There was so much she had to learn, even tuning into and embracing the power that existed within her. And she did this with the thought of finding Castus in the back of her mind -- that one day they would be able to live on their own on their own terms somewhere, even though that might be a pipe dream... The destiny written in the stars, the things lurking in the dark, and those who want to use her might have other ideas.

It took me a few tries to get into the book and it picked up about 15% in, at which point it started to get more intriguing, piquing my interest, but then it kind of ebbed and flowed. I had a mixed reaction to the world-building, some of it was mildly detailed. Other areas and characters you assumed would be a main came off as vague. That might have been the author's strategy so the reader doesn't get too attached to that information and character - making them instead more of an inconsequential bridge to the heart of the story/plot. Though I was still scratching my head over some things that were never quite explained. And a couple of times, I wished it had a glossary (even though I'm not normally partial to them, would rather have the uncommon terms defined within the storyline).

It was cute reading the uncertain feelings and reactions Fia got around Aratah at the beginning of their interactions. It was innocent, but seemingly foreign and uncomfortable for her as she had never experienced such things before -- she wanted to cower from him, but at the same time was drawn to him. She kind of floundered through her emotions and her attachments or detachments. Was never quite sure who she'd turn to.

This is a trilogy, and the 2nd book is supposed to come out in October, so I'll need to find out what happens!

I really enjoying reading about Fia’s journey. The FMC shows empathy, strength and resilience, three things of which I adore in a female protagonist. Her courage and determination not to be a ‘subject’ for someone else’s benefit comes through so well throughout the story and is warranted by the start in life she was given.
One of my favourite quotes ‘I too wish to make my own path….I will not be sacrificed so you can show your people you’re not a monster.’

This book has plenty of world building which is great but if you are looking for an easy read, well then I’d say this one is more of a ‘get stuck into it’ and complete 20% of the book at a time rather than one that you can pick up and put down after reading only a couple of chapters as I would have definitely felt lost had I not completed a good chunk of the book at a time. That could just be me.

There is also a bit of a love dilemma in this book and I adored the character progression of The Aratah and learning of his troubled backstory. It most definitely helped to shape his character.

All in all this book wasn’t a high favourite of mine, just personal taste but most definitely has promising elements and a good plot to get stuck into.

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.

The characters are compelling and well-developed. FMC undergoes significant growth, facing internal struggles and moral dilemmas that add depth to their journey. Supporting characters, such as [notable side character’s name] and [antagonist’s name], bring additional layers of complexity, with motivations and arcs that keep the reader invested.

Not my favorite read of 2025, but I don't regret reading this book. I think that my main reason that I didn't overly enjoy this book was the FMC. I'm all here for a strong woman doing what she wants, but sometimes Fia was just...frustrating? Irritating? Irrational? I don't know how to explain it. The plot also wasn't as good as I had hoped for when I read the description. It could also be a me thing, I know not everyone loves the same books - so take my opinion with a grain of salt because maybe you will love it.

Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this book. I was very intrigued with this fantasy novel in the beginning. As the story went on, I felt myself getting very confused as to what was going on and what the purpose was behind all of the characters being introduced. I had a very difficult time with the names of the groups of people... They just sounded very odd to me and as if they did not fit the story.

I tried very hard to get into the plot, but it was a struggle. Ultimately, I had to DNF around halfway through the book. I feel like this book could have been great, if the plot was a bit more focused.

I enjoyed this book way more that I thought I would!
The plot had me pulled in from the start and I couldn't wait to see what came next.
Though there wasn't a lot of character development I anticipate that to come with the next instalment. The book finishes on a cliffhanger and you can feel a shift coming.

The writing was a bit choppy at times but the overall story was unique and interesting.
I can't wait for book 2!

Blood of starlight had my interest at the begining but started to lose it at 50% and completely lost it by the time the end came.

At first, like i said, I found the plot and characters to be very intersting but many of the characters were there at first then quickly forgetten, it makes me wonder what their purpose was. Fia, the FMC, irritated me as the story went on. She wants this person, but as soon as she has him she doesnt want him anymore and wants person X. She goes through the motion of wanting X and despising him withing the same chapter and goes back to being attracted to him the following paragraph..

By the end of the book, I totally lost the plot. It felt like things were happening, just to happen. I also found there to be a few plot holes but seeing as its a series, they might be addressed in the following books. Fia's powers were also a mystery to me, as were everyone's powers tbh cause the worldbuilding was lacking, but I didn't understand why she suddenly got new powers towards the end of the book.

Overall, it had great potential, started off good then went off the rails for me.

Blood of Starlight by Belle Jerrica was an intriguing read with a dark, mysterious vibe, but it didn’t fully capture me. The connection between Fia and Aratah was interesting, and I liked the high stakes surrounding Castus and the prophecy. However, the pacing slowed down a bit in the middle, and Fia's inner struggles started to feel repetitive.

I appreciated Fia’s character growth, though, as she evolves from a pawn to someone who starts wielding her own power. The plot had potential, but it didn’t quite live up to the excitement I was hoping for. Overall, it’s a solid 3.5-star read—worth checking out if you enjoy dark fantasy, but not without a few bumps.

Blood of Starlight had all the ingredients for an engaging fantasy that could have led to something compelling, but despite its intriguing premise, this book simply didn’t work for me. I struggled to connect with the characters, found the world building lacking, and ultimately felt more bored than invested.

I had no emotional connection to Fia, even when her life was in danger, I found myself indifferent. Without that emotional investment, her journey never resonated, making it hard to care about her struggles.

The novel introduced many different names and concepts in terms of the people and the world. But, as I was reading I struggled to understand what exactly was being discussed. I kept seeing new terms without a real understanding of their significance, making the setting feel hollow and bland. Or I would see a word being mentioned again, and not care enough to recall what is was.

The ultimate deal breaker: I was bored. Reading this felt like a chore, and I kept stopping mid-chapter, not wanting to continue reading. I had been feeling this way early on and it continued until I decided to stop reading. A great book pulls you in, but this one had me constantly looking for an excuse to put it down.

At the end of the day, Blood of Starlight just wasn’t for me. If a story doesn’t make me want to turn the page or even pick up the book, then it’s not worth forcing myself through. I spent two weeks trying to read Blood of Starlight. This one, unfortunately, was a DNF.

Thank you netgalley for this Free e-arc!

The beginning was a bit confusing, making it hard to connect with Fia. But once you got into the story it clicked better. The gothic vibes were great. The plot twist was a nice surprise! Can't wait to read the next book!

I'm not sure I can really describe how much I love this book! I'm not really surprised by plotlines but this one had so many fun twists and turns.

Something really unique about this book is how Fia refuses to compromise herself or her feelings-even if doing so might make her safer or make things 'easier.' At first I actually was thinking about how frustrating she is for not being more rational and how she should make less waves in order to get her way.

When I acknowledged that frustration I really had to take a step back and realize the misogyny in that thought process. Fia's determination to never be quieted or made to feel small in pursuit of someone else's respect is so valid and something I personally need to take to heart. It may not have been the safest option or the path of least resistance, but it was the option that allowed her to survive as long as she did.
*
Thanks again to NetGalley for this ARC!!! This was such a joy to read!

🩷 Book Review 🩷
📚 Blood of Starlight
✒️ Belle Jerrica
💫💫

Thank you @netgalley for an eARC in exchange for a honest review.

It was an okay read, it didn't really grip me and because of that it took me 4 months to read it...

I got frustrated with our FMC Fia, with how she just didn't think before she acted. I understand that its a hero instinct but there is a difference between a hero and a reckless person.

There is zero character development and the plot was too drawn out. By the time I finished the book, I could not remember the start unfortunately.

Rating-
2.5/5 stars
(Rounded down)

Genre-
Fantasy

Quotes-

“She didn’t lose her starlight when she left the skies. It was insider her all along.”

“Can Death be sleep, when life is but a dream?”

Thoughts/Would I Recommend This?-
I was a bit confused at the beginning about the fmc powers and her story and other things like that. It was also pretty hard book to really get into and like. I literally read about 4 other books while trying to get through this, which honestly just speaks for itself and how hard it was to get through this book. I did really like the last 30ish% of the book and got way more into it after I got through the beginning, which is why I rated it a 2.5 and not a 1 star. I did still just felt it was lacking something and a bit confusing to be honest. So all in all I didn’t love this book but, I do think other people may like this way more than I did, but I just didn’t love it and wouldn’t really recommend it if I’m being honest.

honestly, not what I expected going into this! Took me a bit to get into it but it was worth the wait. I'm a sucker for a courageous character and slow burn tension.

The world building of this book was so good. I loved the different types of people and that they are trying to unite the people. Fia is such a strong woman and I loved reading her story. This fantasy world was so entertaining and interesting. I was loving every second of this book.

Holy cow is this an amazing read! Not sure what I was expecting but I got so much more than I even could pretend to have seen coming. Fia is fearless as she just completely dives headfirst into danger in order to rescue Castus... only she meets Aratah first. He's the legit definition of trouble, but that just makes it fun. The chemistry, the tension are all top notch and the stakes are extremely high. The morally gray decisions to be made, and the off-the charts power dynamics kept me turning the pages with eagerness. Such a perfect read for ones that love dark fantasy!

Thanks so much to NetGalley and Starlight Books for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.

Blood of Starlight is a tale of power, sacrifice, and dangerous alliances, following Fia as she plunges into a cursed mountain to save Castus, only to find herself entangled with the dark and magnetic Aratah. The slow-burn tension, morally gray decisions, and complex power dynamics had me completely hooked. I loved how Fia is caught between fate and choice, testing the limits of her own strength. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy dark fantasy with high stakes and a touch of irresistible intrigue.

Okay, someone needs to check on me because Blood of Starlight just snatched my soul and refused to give it back. Fia dives headfirst into danger to save Castus, but oh no, enter Aratah—mysterious, powerful, and the definition of trouble. Their chemistry? Sparks. The stakes? Ridiculously high. The twists? Jaw-dropping. This book had me screaming, “Fia, girl, be careful!” every other chapter, and I loved every second of it. If you’re into slow-burn tension, impossible choices, and morally complicated characters, this is your next obsession. 🌙🔥📖

Solid first book in the a Romantasy trilogy.

I definitely struggled at the beginning as there wasn't a lot of scene setting and explanations on her powers, or even a description of what she looked like so I struggled to connect with Fia.

I really enjoyed the gothic vibes, and it really came through with the story.

I love a morally grey MMC, but struggled to see their connection at points but there is definitely potential!

I really enjoyed the plot twist, and I'm also excited to find out with Amaris is!