The Brilliance of Stars

by J'nell Ciesielski

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Pub Date Nov 01 2022 | Archive Date Dec 01 2022

Thomas Nelson--FICTION | Thomas Nelson

Historical Fiction | Romance

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Description

"Action! Romance! Spies! Secrets! The Brilliance of Stars has it all. This electrifying read from J'nell Ciesielski comes to life with historical details and sparkling descriptions that will leave the reader begging for book two!" —Amy E. Reichert

Amid the chaos of the Great War, two elite assassins learn precisely how dangerous it is to have something—or someone—worth losing.

Washington, DC, 1914. Ivy Olwen knows how to survive on the streets without two coins to rub together. Then destiny thrusts her into the nest of a covert agency of assassins sworn to drive back the world’s darkness, and she acquires a new set of lethal skills. Her education—from explosives to etiquette, sharpshooting to sabotage—is as far reaching as the organization’s missions. But it’s the hours she spends among the towering bookshelves in the library and stargazing on the roof with Agent Jack Vale that make her heart fly.

Jack knew plenty of hardship before the agency refined his rough edges, transforming him into the man who never misses. But he didn’t know the feeling of home until Ivy entered his world. Now Jack’s heart drums with a singular purpose: he will fight for her, fight alongside her. No matter the cost.

When the pair is sent on a seemingly simple mission to take down Russia’s newest and most dangerous arms dealer—a soulless man using the Great War as an opportunity to further his own depraved agenda—they discover that no amount of training could have prepared them for a manhunt that takes them across the frozen tundra, to the Crimean Peninsula, and along the Trans-Siberian Railway . . . only to discover that there is evil in the world they will never understand.

The first book of an epic duology from bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski, The Brilliance of Stars incorporates her signature blend of thrilling adventure, glamorous espionage, and sweeping romance.

Historical romance set during World War I
Book length: approximately 116,000 words
The first Jack and Ivy novel; book two, To Free the Stars—coming August 2023
Includes map of Europe 1917 and discussion questions for book clubs

Available Editions

EDITION	Other Format
ISBN	9780785248453
PRICE	$16.99 (USD)
PAGES	352

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Additional Information

Average rating from 122 members

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Featured Reviews

Kimberly T, Reviewer

I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved all of the different puzzle pieces coming together, and I cannot wait for the sequel!

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Reviewer 769752

J’nell Ciesielski is brilliant! I was hooked from page one and can’t wait to read the next book!!! Well done!

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Peggy S, Librarian

This first book of a two part series about the adventures of Ivy and Jack. Filled with action, adventure and historical elements. Well written and enthralling with strong character development. It's a love story, A spy thriller and war story that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

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Megan H, Reviewer

Plot:
•Takes place during the Great War
•Two master assassins
•Washington D.C.
•Blend of historical fiction and action adventure

My thoughts: I don’t even know what to say! This book completely took me by surprise and blew me away! I just loved this action packed, romantic read, the strong historical sense of place and time, and the characters we meet! It has an espionage, James Bond spy vibe to it that was so fun. I have never read another historical fiction book quite like it, which was totally refreshing! I will say, just be prepared that the action can be intense at times and there is evil presented that felt a bit dark. As much as I couldn’t put this own down, I did have to pace myself at these heavier times. This is no knock on the book, and the writing throughout all of these elements was absolutely phenomenal! I just feel it’s important to mention. Anyways, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this gripping and excellent duology!!!

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the gifted e-copy!