Forging Silver into Stars by Brigid Kemmerer – [Review]

Book Information

Book Title: Forging Silver into Stars

Author: Brigid Kemmerer

Summary:

“Forbidden magic. Secret romance. Dangerous alliances. Enter the world of New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer’s electrifying series.

When nineteen-year-old Tycho, the King’s Courier, arrives in the remote village of Briarlock, he hopes to escape the demands of his new life in the royal court, where magic reigns for the first time in ages. He doesn’t expect to fall for a handsome blacksmith with a bruised heart.

After years of cruelty in his father’s forge, Jax never dared to dream of a better life — until a magic-wielding young lord shows him an enticing alternative. But when rumors of a rebellion reach Briarlock, Jax wonders who he can trust — and if he’ll even survive.

Jax’s best friend, Callyn, doesn’t trust anyone — especially not a handsome stranger with magic, which killed her parents years ago. When another royal emissary arrives, seeing a co-conspirator, Callyn finds herself embroiled in a plot that could lead them all to ruin. . .

As tensions flare throughout the kingdom, it won’t be long before everyone must choose a side.

War is brewing. Passions are building. And magic may doom — or save — them all . . .” (According to GoodReads)

Length: 545 pages

Genre: Fantasy; Fantasy Romance; LBGTIQA2S+, High Fantasy

Series: Forging Silver into Stars #1

Spice Level ( If applicable): 3 / 5 *

Overall Rating: 8.9 / 10

What’s the Buzz about this book?

I found this book at a book sale and was immediately intrigued. To be honest, I was a little worried about starting Forging Silver into Stars, when I had not read the previous series…especially with some of the characters appearing. Nevertheless, I enjoyed myself. I enjoyed the political intrigue, I felt for Tycho’s pain and frustration, I could sense the frustration of King Grey and Queen Lia Mara. I fell in love with Prince Rhen and his beloved, Princess Harper.

We are introduced to Callyn and Jax, two normal people trying to live their lives and pay off their debts. Callyn and her sister Nora run the family business after both parents have died. Jax works as a blacksmith with his abusive father. Money and their fear of magic are a common theme between these two friends. When an opportunity to make a little side money means that Jax and Callyn end up embroiled in a potential threat to the King and Queen. Tycho is faced with plenty of challenges. He is facing political character assassination attempts, trust issues, and a surprising low self-esteem.

While dealing with all the stress of message holding, and threats of violence towards the royal family, we are also introduced to two romances. At first, I was sure that Jax and Callyn would be involved with each other but I was wrong…and I am glad to be wrong. Jax and Tycho are so freaking cute and awkward. Whenever it was their chapter I awaited with bated breath for their cuteness, their respectfulness, and their shyness. Tycho is able to gain confidence through Jax, and Jax through Tycho. It was a welcome moment of peace among all the scheming and stress. Callyn ends up involved with Alek, one of the potential unhappy nobles that are unhappy with the magesmith King.

Magic is a hot topic and a controversial one. Syhl Shallow and Emberhall are just recently working together, as the brothers have forgiven each other. Magic has been banished from Syhl Shallow and when the King is blessed with that skill, some people are unhappy. To forge (he he) a friendly relationship between the two kingdoms, a plan to hold a competition is made.

All of the planning and the reacting boils down to an attempt on the royal family. Callyn must make a decision regarding her loyalty and her fear of magic. Jax tends to build the confidence in his abilities to fight off his father and to help Tycho and the King. I cannot wait to see what holds for the next book.

*How Spicy was the read?

As for spice. Forging Silver into Stars, has a far amount of vague sexual situations. Not as explicit as some fantasy romance but still hot. Some kissing, suggestive scenes.

Favourite Quote(s):

” I don’t think that’s how life works. Like you can just stay focused and nothing will ever go astray.”

He pauses. “People will surprise you, Tycho. For bad, for good, in so many ways you’ll never expect.”
Page 316

Spoilers Bee-ware!

You have been swarmed. Reading past this post means that you understand that you might spoil the book for yourself.

Stats + Facts:

Multiple Perspectives:

Callyn starts off the book, and has 21 chapters.
Tycho has 27 chapters to his name.
Jax has 19 chapters to his name.

Magic may be banished in Syhl Shallow but that does not stop the use of magic. 16 times Grey, Tycho, and even Callyn use magic.

First Kisses:

Alek and Callyn on page 275
Jax and Tycho on page 286

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