The Sun and the Starmaker Book Review by Rachel Griffin

Rating: 5/5 Stars 

Enchanting. Sensory. An Instant Fairy Tale Classic. Beauty and the Beast Vibes. 

I received a complimentary digital copy in exchange for an honest review for this new release fantasy. Thank you so much Sourcebooks Fire! 

Aurora Finch lives in a village called Reverie, overtaken by a deadly frost. Their only hope? The Starmaker: a sorcerer that is elected by the Sun to bring sunlight and warmth everyday to their village to maintain it. Aurora has always been whimsical and loves the folklore of her village but she never expected to be chosen by the Sun to become the next Starmaker. But when she falls in love with the current Starmaker: can their love change fate? Featuring an enchanted marble castle with healing properties, magical paintings, and dozens of flowers blooming within frost. 

Both Aurora and The Starmaker’s hearts were frozen (they had guarded hearts) and slowly they thawed as they each navigate the realities of possessing Sun magic and the tricky gift of immortality. I deeply resonate with this book because like Aurora, I have always been afraid to love because of the risk of loss. Aurora taught me that living with an open heart with love is worth it and just maybe the Sun and the Stars know exactly how we feel too. The Starmaker was cold as ice despite the sun that reigned in his veins because he was afraid to get close to anyone else after he outlived all of his family. He lived as a recluse until Aurora showed him how to live rather than just survive. 

This book healed me. It defrosted my heart and replenished it with warmth and hope. The story felt rich with folklore and the characters were unforgettable–especially Constance! (The cutest immortal bunny ever). The writing was poetic and featured rich sensory details–feeling boots crunching in the snow and the heat from the sun upon your skin. I hope this story becomes a franchise!!

Griffin has used the magic of the elements to create a story reminding us that love is worth the risk. At its core this is a story about being vulnerable enough to open your heart and believe in the divine magic of the universe.