A review by meganmreads
Beneath These Cursed Stars by Lexi Ryan

3.0

This was set in the same world as These Hollowed Vows. I read the duology, but I have no memory of it, so there were some references that itched at my brain and didn’t ring any bells. You don’t have to read the duology, but the author doesn’t re-explain much. I definitely could’ve used a recap and new readers who haven’t read the duology might be confused. 

I actually loved the premise of the book! I felt engaged and sometimes on the edge of my seat. I loved the dual POVs of Jas and Felicity. 

I have similar criticisms as I did for the duology and that is the decision making capabilities of characters, especially the Mab ladies. I’m irritated by Brie, as she dismissed her depressed sister. She never thought to question why she’s sleeping all day (like maybe she’s out all night trying to get revenge?!)

I understood Jasalyn’s motivations, but I was skeptical of the ring. I’m shocked she had no qualms about it and also absolutely no understanding. She didn’t want to be Fae, but… how about instead of thinking about what YOU are losing by getting the ring, you think about what someone ELSE might be gaining? It’s like magic bartering 101 and I don’t even have magic in my world! The conflict could have been avoided if she wasn’t so focused on herself and her emotions. 

There were some surprises, but overall the book was predictable. I was more interested in how the relationships would pan out once secrets were revealed and less on the plot twists, anyway.

The audiobook was good, but the Jas narrator trails off softly and I had to keep adjusting the volume in my car, so a heads up to my fellow car listeners! 

Overall, it was a decent story. I wish the author had given her teen characters just a little more credit.. so much hinges on the impulsiveness/lack of communication and it is just tiring. Like could you imagine being a 100 year old Fae ruler and some 17 year old comes bopping in with just complete chaos and destruction?