Amalie Howard, the brilliant author behind the Taming of the Dukes series, has officially ventured into the world of adult romantasy with The Starlight Heir. The moment I read the synopsis, I could not wait to read this book! While my physical copy was delayed due to a snowstorm (and honestly, can we take a moment to appreciate how stunning that cover art is?), I didn’t have to wait to experience the magic—I grabbed it on Kindle Unlimited and devoured it while we were snowed in.
This 5-star read was the perfect escape, and I can’t wait to share why it’s such a must-read for romantasy lovers! I seriously finished it in 24 hrs and I cannot stop thinking about it!
Synopsis (spoiler free)
Suraya Saab, an ordinary bladesmith living in a quiet desert town, never imagined her life would change with a single, glittering summons. When a royal invitation arrives, inviting her to participate in a bride pageant for the crown prince, she assumes it’s a joke. But once at the palace, Suraya discovers that the stakes are far higher than she ever imagined—and that she is far from ordinary. Suddenly, she’s thrust into a world of political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and hidden magic, where her own destiny is bound to a power she’s only beginning to understand.
When rebels attack the palace, Suraya finds herself on the run with Roshan, the prince’s illegitimate and infuriatingly broody half-brother. As their journey takes them across a richly built fantasy world, Suraya struggles to control her newly awakened magic and navigate the undeniable attraction sparking between them. What she doesn’t expect? The looming threat of a dark, shadowy god whose interest in her might be more dangerous than anything she’s faced so far.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Should You Read It?
Amalie Howard’s first adult romantasy absolutely delivers when it comes to lush world-building and thrilling stakes. The rich, Middle Eastern-inspired lore brings a fresh and vibrant feel to the fantasy genre, making The Starlight Heir a joy to immerse yourself in.
One of the standout aspects of the book for me was the dynamic between Suraya and Roshan. Their relationship was a slow burn with plenty of sizzling chemistry, but best of all—no miscommunication trope! Their lusty banter and mutual respect kept me hooked, and I loved watching their partnership grow into something deeper.
While the bride pageant that kicks off the story felt a little rushed, the pacing finds its stride once the plot moves into action-packed adventures and deadly trials. And let’s not overlook the broody, shadowy god, who adds even more tension and mystery to the story!
If You Like:
- Deadly trials and high-stakes competition
- Prophecies and chosen-one storylines
- Broody protective princes with secrets
- Lush, Middle Eastern-inspired fantasy worlds
- A reluctant hero discovering her hidden power
- A fast-paced, romantic fantasy with magic, danger, and passion
This book is for you!
The Starlight Heir is a fast-paced, magical ride that truly has it all—deadly trials, broody princes, ancient prophecies, and a heroine discovering her hidden magic. The story blends action, romance, and lush world-building seamlessly, creating a novel that’s both gripping and fun to read.
The Starlight Heir
Amalie Howard
- -Fast paced
- -Epic quest
- -Forced Proximity
- -Touch her and die
- -Persian and Indian mythology
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If you’re looking for a romantasy with a well-built world, a chosen-one heroine, a brooding prince, and a mysterious, shadowy god, this one’s for you. It’s a solid 5-star read for me, and I can’t wait to see what the next book in the series has in store!
