Book review : Night of a Thousand Stars by Deanna Raybourn

Night of a Thousand Stars
City of Jasmine book #2
by Deanna Raybourn
GENRE : #historical-adventure-mystery
( with a little touch of romance)

My rating: ★★★★★
Actually 4,5 stars rounded up to 5.

Deanna Raybourn's "Night of a Thousand Stars" it's a bit of a misleading title, it's suitable for a romance, I would title it instead: "A Daring Escape into a World of Intrigue"!
Prepare to be swept away!
This is a gripping adventure, a captivating journey that had me turning pages late into the night.

The story is a fantastic journey of self-discovery, intrigue, and daring feats.
I rated it a solid 4.5 stars thanks to its thrilling plot, vibrant characters, and fascinating historical depth.

----> It would've easily been 5 stars if only there had been more romance all the way through!

_____ THE PLOT IN A NUTSHELL __
We are in England in the early 1920s.
The story kicks off with a bang when the spirited Poppy Hammond, on the cusp of an uninspired aristocratic marriage, makes the only sensible choice: she flees her own wedding in her gown!

With the unexpected assistance of the charming curate, Sebastian Cantrip, Poppy escapes to her estranged father's quiet country village.
Though her family's uproar follows, the dust eventually settles, but then Sebastian vanishes under mysterious circumstances. This disappearance ignites Poppy's determination, revealing that her enigmatic rescuer is far more than he seems.

Driven by a strong hunch and whispered clues, Poppy, accompanied only by her loyal lady’s maid, secures new employment and embarks on a clandestine journey east across the seas.
What unfolds is a breathtaking odyssey fraught with danger as Poppy finds herself entangled in the clutches of those determined to unearth a fabled ancient treasure.
Amidst conflicting loyalties—to her kindly employer and a dashing, shadowy figure—Poppy risks everything to unravel a much larger conspiracy, one that reaches into the very heart of the British government and threatens all she holds dear.

***** ________ *****

The synopsis, title, cover, and even the opening pages all heavily hinted at a good dose of romance and flirtation, but honestly, the author just didn't develop that side of things. So, if you're a romantic at heart craving deep courtship, playful banter, and sweet or passionate kisses, you might want to look elsewhere.

Luckily for me, I'm a big fan of adventure, and the story still totally swept me away!
It was a daring whirlwind of escapes, clever disguises, characters who kept me guessing (were they good? bad? both?), plenty of action, fascinating historical insights, and a surprise ending that neither the main character, Poppy March, nor the reader saw coming.

While the book definitely could've used more flirty excitement, we do eventually get a happy ending in the final chapters, complete with a kiss and some implied (but not described!) intimacy.

----> For readers familiar with Raybourn's work and especially for all fans of the "Lady Julia mystery series", here is a little gem: Poppy is none other than Lady Julia's brother's daughter!!!!
... And as such you will have the pleasure of meeting again, albeit in a more mature guise, Plum, Julia's brother.

It's worth also noting that "Night of a Thousand Stars" is it's the sequel/completion of the novel "City of Jasmine" ( Book #1 in City of Jasmine series ).
This adventure beautifully intertwines with the world of Gabriel Starke and his wife Eve (main characters in City of Jasmine ), featuring Sebastian as a close friend of Gabriel's since the time before the Great War.
The story also explores the nature of their bond and how it dragged Sebastian, and consequently Poppy, into an equally frenetic, dangerous, and utterly exciting adventure in the exotic locales of Damascus.


____ A THRILLING RIDE _________

From beginning to end, this novel is a riveting, fast-paced adventure that rarely lets up.
Desperate escapes, clever disguises, ambiguous allies and adversaries, intense action...Certainly, while reading I didn't have time to get bored and the swing of positive and dangerous events kept the tension high.
Author Deanna Raybourn masterfully juggles multiple plot threads and a vibrant cast, blending all the elements together so spectacularly that I never once felt lost or confused.

Unfortunately, as I've already noted above, the romantic development is so subtle that it's barely noticeable.
However, the plot offers a satisfying conclusion not only in terms of the villains' punishment and the discovery of Sebastan's secrets, but also from a sentimental standpoint: without expecting great things, you can close the book knowing that our couple has found their perfect ending.


________CHARACTERS THAT SHINE:________

I was particularly captivated by the dynamic between Poppy and Sebastian. Despite secrets and significant time apart in the narrative ( until, they feel incredibly in tune as a couple.

SEBSTIAN: In a refreshing change, the male lead utterly stole the show for me here.
Sebastian is not only intelligent and patient but also remarkably humble. He endures Poppy's spirited, if sometimes naive, chatter with grace.
Circumstances compel him to maintain a strict adherence to duty, preventing him from immediately succumbing to Poppy's more brazen provocations. Yet, he is never offensive or rude, unlike Gabriel in the previous book.
His charm lies in his quiet strength, his often-enigmatic presence (especially in his "desert prince attire"), and his profound devotion to protecting Poppy with unwavering courage.

POPPY: While initially a touch insistent in her judgments and impulsive in her pursuit of dangerous plans, Poppy acts with immense heart and enthusiasm. Her good intentions redeem her stubbornness and occasional superficiality when navigating perilous situations.
Her entire journey is crucial to her emotional growth, transforming her from a somewhat naive young woman into a responsible adult. Even the VILLAINS and POSITIVE SUPPORTING CHARACTERS are remarkably interesting.
Despite the book's substantial length, the intense sequence of events meant there wasn't always space for deep dives into every individual. Yet, Raybourn skillfully conveys each character's unique traits through a few vivid scenes and lines, leaving a lasting impression.


______ A DELIGHT FOR HISTORY BUFFS :____

One of my favorite aspects in reading historical novels is how the author seamlessly weaves a creative imagination into real historical events, introducing fascinating real-life characters.
As an Italian, my knowledge of the British Empire's intricacies beyond elementary facts is limited, and I knew even less about the eccentric or unusual British figures who dared to challenge the rigid norms of Regency and Victorian society.

This read was a delightful opportunity to learn about (and subsequently research further online) the incredible Lady Esther Stanhope, a truly astounding historical woman and the intriguing legend of the Treasure of Ashkelon.
Raybourn meticulously introduces these historical elements at precisely the right moments and gradually, making them an integral and exciting part of the narrative rather than a burdensome or boring academic detour.


I also loved the folkloristic part with the description of local customs (for example the ritual of bathing in the hammam, the way of dressing or the black make-up on the eyes...) and of some of the local gastronomic delights.
All this contributed effectively to making me fully perceive the atmosphere of that place and that time.


_____________ CONCLUDING:______

This is a beautiful, engaging and relentlessly fast-paced story that I wholeheartedly recommend to all lovers of historical adventure and light, carefree reading.

However, if your primary goal is a passionate love story with deep romantic thrills, this definitely will not satisfy that craving(sorry to say that even a "proper regency romance" will give you more shivers on your skin and butterflies in your stomach).

___SUITABLE FOR ALMOST ALL AGES ___

_ Clean language.
_ While there's a hint of a sex scene towards the end, it is discreetly handled and not explicitly described.
_ While the plot involves three or four murders, none of these scenes are detailed graphically.


Thank you all for stopping by and reading my opinion, I hope it can be helpful in choosing your next book :-)

Curious to learn more about the book "City of Jasmine" to which this is a sort of sequel?
Read my review here:

A review of the short prequel that tells the story of Eve's first meeting with her husband Gabriel, can be found here: WHISPER OF JASMINE book #0.5

Gabriel and Eve, adventure in Damascus :
CITY OF JASMINE book #1

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ITALIAN EDITION : libro disponibile anche in italiano : RECENSIONE DISPONIBILE NEI PROSSIMI GIORNI

Book review : City of Jasmine by Deanna Raybourn

City of Jasmine
City of Jasmine book #1
by Deanna Raybourn
GENRE : #historical-adventure-mystery
( with a touch very little touch of romance)

My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,9 stars rounded up to 4.

Deanna Raybourn's "City of Jasmine" offers a vibrant desert adventure, filled with compelling characters, sparkling dialogue, and a charming, exotic setting with a touch of historical depth. While I wouldn't recommend this to those seeking a passionate, sweeping romance, I wholeheartedly recommend it to those who enjoy a light, fast-paced read packed with thrilling adventures and a satisfying resolution.

THE STORY IN A NUTSHELL:

It's the 1920s, and renowned aviatrix Evangeline Starke has long believed her adventurer husband, Gabriel Starke, perished with the Lusitania. Their whirlwind courtship amidst London's glittering pre-war social scene was cut short by his apparent death. Now, five years later, Evie is forging a new life, circling the globe as a celebrated pilot and journalist. However, her world is shattered when she receives a mysterious – and recent – photograph of Gabriel, forcing her ambitious stunt to a screeching halt.

Accompanied by her eccentric Aunt Dove, Evie traces the photograph's origin to the ancient City of Jasmine, Damascus. There, she discovers that nothing is as it seems. Danger lurks around every corner, and a priceless relic – an artifact lost to time – is at stake. Criminals will stop at nothing to acquire it, even murder. Evie embarks on a perilous journey across the desert, determined to uncover the truth behind Gabriel's disappearance and recover the relic.

Along the way, Evie must confront the deceptions that separated her from Gabriel and embrace a passion that could redefine her future...

_________ ******* ________

WHAT I LOVED: 1__ Evangeline Starke Adventurous Life Introduction: I was immediately drawn in by the concise yet effective introduction to Evangeline Starke. We quickly learn how she reinvented herself as a celebrated aviatrix, earning a living by globetrotting and providing newspapers with captivating articles and photographs of herself, her adventurous aunt, and her aristocratic friend, Wally. This instantly establishes an unconventional heroine and sets the stage for thrilling escapades across the world.

2__ Eve, Captivating Heroine of the Story: Evie is a beautifully crafted character who resonates deeply because of her complexity and realism. She's not a perfect heroine but a real person—full of contradictions, strength, and vulnerability.
Her enduring love for her husband, despite years of absence and a difficult marriage, showcases a passionate stubbornness that feels genuine rather than contrived. The way she conceals her true feelings, even from herself, adds layers to her emotional struggle.

What truly stands out is Evie's refusal to be a victim. Even when faced with her husband's rough treatment, she responds with wit and unyielding will, demonstrating both courage and fierce loyalty. She's patient beyond reason and willing to confront painful truths instead of running away, which gives her remarkable depth. Her self-awareness, acknowledging her flaws while also displaying generosity and warmth to those around her, makes her incredibly relatable.

It's a shame the author didn't imbue Gabriel with the same depth or charm, as this imbalance can diminish the emotional impact. But Evie's character shines so brightly that she carries the story with authenticity and heart.
She's the kind of character you want to root for, the kind who stays with you long after you turn the final page.

3__ Impressive Desert Adventure: I absolutely loved the thrilling desert adventure that unfolds, filled with twists and turns. It magically rekindled that specific atmosphere of the Middle East, reminiscent of the fairy tales of Aladdin, Scheherazade, and The Arabian Nights, which I adored as a child. Unfortunately, I had lost that enchantment over the years, particularly after the rise of ISIS and the Taliban, their attacks on the West, the executions of journalists, and the ongoing conflicts between various religious factions. For a long time, when I thought of the Arab world, all that came to mind was dust, dirt, blood, and fear.

This book, however, delivered an adventure that reignited my curiosity, making me want to discover more about the historical and cultural stories behind these lands.

4__ Historical Echoes: I also thoroughly enjoyed the historical backdrop of the 1920s. The narrative subtly highlights how, even after the devastation of the First World War, Western colonial empires continued their attempts to exert control over what was not rightfully theirs.

The references to Lawrence of Arabia were particularly engaging (whom I only knew from movies, since he's part of British history, while I'm Italian). While reading the book, I found myself exploring online the life of this Englishman who tried to help the Arabs establish an independent state, and how the subsequent events and the revolts against the Turks unfolded in a disappointing manner.

I enjoyed researching, through Wikipedia, blog articles, and old black-and-white photos, the real-world places mentioned in the book, such as Damascus, Palmyra, and the Zenobia Hotel, an elegant hotel that was still in operation until 2013, but now sadly a victim of the conflict in Syria, riddled with holes and decay. This historical immersion added a rich layer to the story.

5__ Intrigue and Mystery: The intrigue surrounding the archaeological finds, perfectly interwoven with the political climate of the time, was another strong point. It kept me guessing and fully invested in the unfolding mystery.

6__ A Vibrant Supporting Cast: Finally, I loved almost all the supporting characters, both good and bad. Evie's loyal friend Wally, the enigmatic Sheikh Hamid, the diverse personalities at the archaeological dig, the charming British diplomat Hallyday, and even the funny and chatty parrot, they all added depth and flavor to the narrative. There was only one character I didn't quite connect with, although I know many readers appreciated her.

WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE:
1__ A Romance Mismatch: My primary disappointment stemmed from the book's cover and blurb (in addition to a prequel written a year after the book), which strongly suggest an intense love story between two protagonists deeply in love with each other. However, for up to 90% of the book, it seems like the only one truly in love is Evie. Her ex-husband, meanwhile, consistently adopts a gruff tone, and the only two kisses we witness toward the middle of the book are completely sterile and devoid of passion and genuine feeling. The romance trope should be "enemies to lovers," but here, even the slightest hint of love and interest on his part is missing, making the book profoundly disappointing from a romantic perspective.
Only in the last 10% do we get a making-love scene. It's tasteful; the author hints at it without explicit details, making it suitable for younger readers. Unfortunately, even after that scene, there are no overwhelming emotions or romantic thrills.

The ending is happy, but even here, the author missed an opportunity to make the hero more tender towards his ex-wife and now-returned partner. In fact, she's the only one who says "I love you," and there are no kisses that give you goosebumps (as any romance should, even if it's "clean" and free of explicit scenes).

2__ The Unconventional Aunt: The character I didn't like was the elderly aunt. While she's meant to be a whimsical, adventurous character, which could have been endearing, her portrayal as a 60-year-old Victorian woman who, despite her storied past, still flirts and makes insistent advances, even towards young men, felt off-putting. I found it quite jarring and out of place within the narrative.
It's also utterly absurd that, at a certain point in the story, she, at 60 years old and without prior experience, manages to fly an airplane on her own after less than an hour of lessons. This is particularly unbelievable, considering Evie herself has taken countless lessons from aviators recovering from the war, preparing herself practically, mentally, and physically.

3__ Too much of Peter Pan Influence: The last thing that bothered me slightly was the constant references to Peter Pan and Wendy, and the famous fairy tale. I've loved that fairy tale since I was a child, but in this context, it seemed a bit forced, and for a man of the world like Gabriel to constantly reference Peter Pan felt somewhat ridiculous and out of character.

*******______ ****** In any case, the negative aspects I mentioned were only a minor annoyance for me; overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the main characters and their world stayed with me for several days after I finished reading.

Despite its few flaws, "City of Jasmine" is a fantastic read for those seeking adventure, historical intrigue, and an escape to a vibrant, bygone era.

Thank for stopping by and reading my review. :-)

A review of the short prequel that tells the story of Eve's first meeting with her husband Gabriel can be found here: WHISPER OF JASMINE book #0.5

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Book review : The Blighted Cliffs by Edwin Thomas

The Blighted Cliffs
Reluctant Adventures of Lieutenant Martin Jerrold Book #1
by Edwin Thomas

GENRE: #Historical-adventure-mystery

My rating: ★★★★☆

This is an adventurous mystery, set against the backdrop of 1806 Dover when the city was infested by smugglers and threatened by the French tyrant Napoleon.

I found it nice and engaging from the start, but it became more compelling chapter after chapter, involving the main character in one adventure (or rather misadventure ) after another.
The second part is wonderfully fast-paced and I couldn't help but turn the page to see what would happen next.

This is the first mystery I've read where the main character belongs to the naval world.
Although I loved the "Hornblower" tv series and the "Master and Commander" movie ( both based on well known book series ) I never read a book in that genre until now.
Of course this one is far less dramatic than the two I named above, but the same it has been a captivating story.
I suggest it to those looking for a light, adventurous read.
I think I'll certainly try other adventure and mystery novels in this genre from now on.

__ PLOT IN SHORT __ England, 1806.
Lieutenant Martin Jerrold is sent by his uncle, the Admiral, to the White Cliffs of Dover, with one final chance to redeem his reputation, after his poor performance (or rather: no performance at all) during the Battle of Trafalgar.

On his first night in Dover, while loitering near the harbor, he stumbles upon a body that has fallen from the cliffs.
The consequence is immediate: he's now the prime suspect in the murder.
Distrusted by his superiors, set upon by intriguingly well-informed smugglers, and attacked by the French at sea, Jerrold has two weeks to clear his name and save his skin... or perish in the attempt.

__________________

__ MAIN CHARACTER __ A really nice main character.
He is a young man (about 25 years old) portrayed in the general plot as a coward, but he is not the kind of slimy person whose cowardice makes others pay the consequences. Absolutely not.

Jerrold is the kind of boy who is not yet very keen on taking on any kind of responsibility and is naturally inclined to do as little work as possible.
A young man who is still immature, we would say nowadays.

Unfortunately, fate and his impulsive and somewhat rebellious nature constantly lead him into trouble.
I couldn't help but love him and root for him though,because of his inherent goodness and because his impulsiveness, while causing problems, also compels him to act in recklessly heroic ways, often surprising even himself.

_ SIDE CHARACTERS___ They are equally well-developed.
Whether virtuous or villainous, each character effectively expresses themselves through vivid actions and dialogues. I found them all remarkably believable.

_ HISTORICAL PART___
The story is not only centered around a murder's mystery, but it tells us the significant problem of smuggling along the English coast at the time, as well as the threat of a French invasion.

Although it may appear to be a light read dedicated to pure entertainment, this story is actually based on historical facts and lesser-known events. Those events are not widely discussed in history books, but they're supported by clues and evidence.
I cannot tell you more, because if I did, I would spoil the mystery's resolution.
You will find out everything in the ending and in the author's historical notes.

Reading this story also revealed that hot air balloons already existed in 1785, a fact I was unaware of, in fact I used to think that people's adventures with these means belonged to the end of the 19th century.
That's why I love historical fiction: one always has something new to learn !

_ At the end of the book there are INTERESTING AUTHOR NOTES about true history and I suggest you not to read before the end of the story if you want to avoid spoilers.

_ READABLE AS A STANDALONE _
-----> It's book#1 in a series of 3, but it offers a satisfying happy ending with no cliffhanger.

_ SUITABLE TO ALL AGES _
----> Clean language, no gruesome scene.

Thanks for reading my opinion and please forgive any errors you may find in my review, since English is not my language.

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