Beneath These Cursed Stars is a revelation, one that ironically began with trepidation. I have not read the duology this book is spin-off is from, so I entered this one worried about all those missed beats in story would negatively impact my enjoyment.

Fortunately, those worries were swiftly vanquished.

Yes, if you know the spin off’s predecessor, there is no doubt it will heighten your emotions as you experience this tale, but I did not have any difficulty fully immersing myself in the here and now of this adventure. The narrative provides enough foundation from the prior books to properly build upon in this story, so there is never a feeling of missing out— if anything, there’s now an itch I need to satisfy by diving into that duology. Especially considering how this book ending, with me at the edge of my seat, my breath caught in my throat, my heart beating relentlessly, I could use a detour into These Hollow Vows. Because, wow, this book ends on a bang and I am going to wear down the floors impatiently pacing as we await the sequel. I need to satisfy my impatience somehow!

But I’m getting ahead of myself! Let me take it back to the start, a start that begins with emerging heroines, their swoony love interests, and a lively cast of characters: all scattered across a board of massive intrigue, mystery, allure, and excitement in plot.

Jasalyn and Felicity are fantastic, dynamic leads.

I initially worried Jasalyn would be another stabby, wisecracking, girlboss fantasy heroine, but my fears were unflinchingly squashed.
Jas is a multifaceted protagonist, she is never one thing. She is as heartbreakingly vulnerable as she is inspiringly brave. She is as prickly as she is kind. She possesses a soft heart with sharp walls built around it. She fits the mold of the typical fantasy heroine, whilst also breaking it. I loved her, I admired her, I feared for her, and above all— I rooted like hell for her.
I felt so much of her hurt and pain, and I wanted to eradicate it all. I want so desperately to see her triumph, and I can’t wait to see where her journey leads her too. I’ll be there every step of the way.

Then there’s sweet Felicity. Felicity is such a lovely heroine!
I longed to reach into the pages to protect her from the inevitable hardships facing her upon the discovery of her true self. A true self both she and reader long to meet. She hides behind the face of others, and all I want is to see her claim herself, to claim her agency, to claim her freedom, and to claim her own personal victories. Her story is filled with potential and her arc is the one I most look forward to as the series continues.

Now for the romancing!
I am so on board the direction I hope Felicity’s love story goes, as I am riddled with fear given certain circumstances that unfold throughout the narrative. I will be keeping my fingers crossed!
As for Jas’ romance— I began the story so here for it, but left this one feeling unsure. My heart just hurt so much for her and I hope that hurt is mended. I most certainly will be holding my breath as her love story further develops.

I really enjoyed the cast of characters (although I can’t say I love Skylar, but I think I’ll eventually warm up, haha!), something I appreciated of this cast is how each individual truly stands out; it doesn’t feel like a monotone cluster of supporting cast, it feels like individual characters with endless potential and richness to untap. A cast like that really elevates the narrative to new heights, which I very much love.

All in all—I had a blast reading this one! And now I’m biting my nails impatiently awaiting the next! LFG! 4.5✨

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for this complimentary copy, I leave this honest review voluntarily.