**Disclaimer: I was given a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.**
Title Forged in Fire and Stars
Author Andrea Robertson
Release Date May 5, 2020
Description from Amazon
Ara has always known the legend of the Loresmith: the blacksmith who served alongside the kings and queens of Saetlund, forging legendary weapons to arm warriors and protect the kingdom. She’s been told it’s her fate to inherit the title and become the next Loresmith. But since the monarchy’s downfall in a vicious conquest years before, Ara has never truly believed she would be able to take up her duty.
But when the lost Princess Nimhea and Prince Eamon steal Ara from her quiet life with a mission to retake the throne and return Ara to her place as the Loresmith–Ara’s whole world turns upside down.
Suddenly, Ara must leave her small mountain village and embark on a dangerous adventure where she will uncover new truths about her family’s legacy, and even face the gods themselves. With a mysterious thief as an unexpected companion, and dark forces following their every move, Ara must use all her skills to forge the right path forward–for herself, her kingdom, and her heart.
Initial Thoughts
I was super excited when Penguin Teen offered me the chance to review this book early. It has been on my TBR for a while now and the premise sounded really interesting.
Some Things I Liked
- Lore and mythology. This book felt like it was inspired by Norse mythology and I loved the way lore and gods were woven into the history of the world.
- Unexpected turns. I’ve read a ton of YA books and I sometimes find that the plots can be a bit formulaic or predictable. I can honestly say this book kept me guessing. Not in a bad way, mind you. I felt like the plot twists were well executed and there were subtle hints to them earlier on.
- That ending. Wow. That’s all I’ll say on the matter.
One Thing I Wasn’t Crazy About
- The age of the main character was my one issue with this book. Ara was 15 which just felt a little young for the responsibility and expectations the adult characters had for her. I know this is YA but typically YA is characterized with adults who are not present or totally evil. Ara had her grandmother and I found it odd that she was so quick to let her leave for her quest with basically some random kids she met. It’s a small critique, but I’d have preferred if Ara was a smidge older. It would have made the story feel more realistic.
Series Value
I would definitely keep reading this series. I have many unanswered questions and I’m eager to know more about these characters.
Furthermore, I think that this series has high re-read value. There are so many details in this book and I’d definitely want them fresh in my mind as I read the next installment.
Final Thoughts
I enjoyed this book. It has really good bones for the start of a series and I’d gladly keep reading.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Recommendations for Further Reading
- Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa – if you liked the concept of “found family” in Forged in Fire and Stars, check out this finished series by Julie Kagawa.
- Seven Deadly Shadows by Courtney Alameda and Valynn E. Maetani – again, if you liked the idea of a “found family” or where the main character has to gather warriors to fight with her, try this standalone based on Japanese mythology.
Books Over Everything 