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heidirgorecki 's review for:

The Brilliance of Stars by J'nell Ciesielski
5.0

A perfect blend of both adventure and romance, The Brilliance of Stars was both hard to put down and has me wishing the next installment was already available. I’m already fully invested in Jack and Ivy’s story along with their friends.

I loved reading about the development of 2 orphans finding their place in belonging with Talon, along with the growth in Jack and Ivy’s relationship, and their friendship with Philip. The characters warred with their trust and rejection struggles coming out growing up abandoned or on their own, while having to rely on and work with each other in the espionage work they were a part of.

I also really loved how each person has their own talent, while also having to still be adept at basic fighting and strategy required in their line of work. Their personalities and baggage played well in their strengths and weaknesses.

The book ended on a cliffhanger and I’m looking forward to the next book to see how it ends. I think the ending really left a realistic note and didn’t just tie things up in a pretty bow, and I appreciate that.

Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.