Quick Stats
Overall: 5 stars (I rounded up because it deserves it)
Characters: 5/5 stars
Plot: 5/5 stars
Setting: 5/5 stars
Writing:4/5 stars
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The Wide Starlight is a story containing Norwegian mythology/folklore. It follows Eli as she returns to the secluded Norwegian flord at the top of the world where she lived as a child as she searches for the truth about what happened the night her mother disappeared. Written from Eli’s point of view with multi-generational stories written like twisted bedtime stories sprinkled in, I was captivated by the world and story.

This is an incredible, strong debut by Nicole Lesperance and I can’t wait to read what she comes out with next.

The characters were all well rounded. Eli had a unique voice, and I never felt disconnected from her. I adored Iris’s character and their friendship. I do with we had gotten to see a little bit more of the forming of a relationship between Eli and Kaja, but what was there was well done.
It took me a few chapters to get drawn into the plot and writing, but once I did, I didn’t want to set down the book until I was finished. The magic was woven into every page beautifully. The story was supplemented with fairytale-esque stories that give the reader insight into Eli’s past in Svalvard and her mother’s past and experiences with Eli, magic, and her own mother. I loved this addition. It gave a whole new magical feel to the story and tied in with the plot very well.
When Eli arrived in Svalvard and began exploring I was swept up in the beautiful descriptions of the town at the top of the world. Everything about this novel is beautiful, magical, and atmospheric. I highly recommend this book, especially if you’re a fan of magical realism or contemporary fantasy.
A million thanks to PenguinTeen for an eARC of this book! This is an honest, unbiased review and all thoughts and opinions are my own!