Monday, September 8, 2025

 A Game of Fallen Stars

by S.E. Berkeley 

 

I truly enjoyed diving into this book, it’s a beautifully written slow-burn, grumpy/sunshine paranormal romance that had me hooked from the very first page. The contrast between the MMC and FMC is so sharp yet compelling, and it’s impossible not to root for them as they navigate their way toward a well-earned happily ever after. I also really appreciated the thoughtful representation woven into the story, the FMC is midsize, and the cast includes LGBTQ characters. And I can’t go without mentioning the cover: it’s stunning and perfectly reflects the atmosphere and mood of the book.

The story begins with Ethan, our MMC, on the phone with his narcissistic mother, who berates him for his life choices. Having left behind a high-stress job to retreat to a remote cabin, Ethan is seeking peace and much-needed space from her constant criticism. With encouragement from his sister, and thanks to the boundaries he’s been working on in therapy, he finally manages to end the call. The quiet moment doesn’t last long, though; after his sister leaves, Ethan steps outside and witnesses something extraordinary plummeting from the sky.

What he finds is unlike anything he could have imagined: a glowing, humanoid figure with no memory of who they are or why they’ve come to Earth. As Ethan cares for them, this being slowly transforms from a mysterious, light-filled entity into Star, a curious and endearing woman who is both innocent to the ways of the world and eager to explore it. Their dynamic is captivating, Ethan, the loner trying to respect boundaries while struggling with his undeniable attraction, and Star, whose openness and wonder make her utterly lovable. The romance builds slowly, but the payoff is worth every single moment.

Beyond the central romance, the book shines with its rich lore and supporting characters, each of whom adds depth and nuance to the world. It’s clear the author put an incredible amount of care and detail into the story, making it feel fresh and original. The writing itself is both engaging and lyrical, and the character development was a real highlight for me.

Overall, this is a story that balances heart, magic, and romance in a way that feels truly unique. I’d love to see this expand into a series, I’m eager to learn more about the “stars” above us and the mysteries they hold.





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