Book Review of These Burning Stars by Bethany Jacobs

A science fiction fantasy with unique and diverse characters.

Welcome!

I won an e-copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for my honest opinion.
Well, you shall have it.

That may sound a bit ominous but really, it’s a bit trickier than that.
This was an impressive book but for me.. it was also a bit much. Despite that, I think a few of you will find it intriguing.

If you’re looking for your next read and an elaborate space fantasy with a whole host of diverse and curious characters is you’re kind of thing, this is one you’ll want to check out.

Enjoy!

(Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Any purchases made through my links may earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you.)

These Burning Stars by Bethany Jacobs

Publication date: October 17, 2023
Pages: 517
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, LGBT, Space Opera
Book 1 of 1: The Kindom Trilogy

First line: Her ship alighted on the tarmac with engines snarling, hot air billowing out from beneath the thrusters.

Characters: Many. Frustrating.
Storyline: Complex. Well thought out.
Pace: Slow but steady.
Writing: Intelligent. Full of detail.
Cover: 4/5

Multiple POVs

Three and a Half Stars

My Review:

The world created here is extremely elaborate, full of incredible detail and a frustratingly complex ruling system? hierarchy? The glossary in the beginning should have been warning enough, but it does little to keep the politics, positions, and power plays going on straight.
Then there’s the skipping back and forth on the timeline and between so many characters’ perspectives that only confuses the already complicated story further. I would need to make a diagram to keep up with it all, and I just don’t have it in me to make one.

I do have to give the author credit, though.. She manages to weave together a plethora of strong female characters, (go feminism!) Children stripped of their names and genders being used and abused by those meant to protect them, (sound familiar?) Same sex relationships, (because it’s practically a requirement these days..) This is like a melting pot of some of today’s biggest controversial hits.

Ten years ago, I wouldn’t have bat an eye at such topics showing up in a space opera/science fiction fantasy like this. Now? You can’t turn on the TV, surf the internet, or pick up a book that isn’t for or against someone’s cause. Maybe you won’t mind. Me? I found it exhausting and would just really like to read without being constantly reminded of all of the craziness going on IRL.

I found few of the characters likable, however, it was done in a way that worked for their purpose in the grand scheme of things.
They certainly weren’t boring.. but I didn’t feel compelled to root for them either.

The story felt slow moving, no doubt the result of all the information you’re attempting to assimilate. Thankfully, it does pick up towards the end. This is when the author throws a grenade or two in and surprises you—and pulls it off beautifully. It’s just a shame that the first part of the book wasn’t as compelling as the last handful of chapters.

Would I recommend These Burning Stars? Yes, it will be an amazing read for a lot of fantasy lovers.
Will I be picking up the next book in the series? Sadly.. Doubtful.

And that’s a wrap.
Thank you so much for stopping by and checking out my review, I hope that I haven’t turned you off it—it is an interesting read.
Be sure to stay safe and have a wonderful week ahead!

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