StarDust: A Science Fantasy Romance

If you’ve read “UpSpark”, you’ll know already what to expect in Nicole Wells' Five Elements series: amazing Native American rep, magical realism-esque worldbuilding, a discovery of spirituality, swoonworthy romance, and unforgettable character dynamics. “StarDust” takes everything that “UpSpark” had to offer, and takes it up a notch, resulting in a book that truly hooked me and refused to let me go. Leigh’s story was, for me, much more enjoyable than Enya’s journey; not because “UpSpark” was weak, but rather because “StarDust” is a particularly strong addition to the series. Although I did have an amazing time reading “UpSpark”, “StarDust” definitely felt like Nicole knew much better exactly where she wanted this entire series to go, and wasn’t afraid to start executing it. What a wonderful result she got! Leigh was daring, playful, bubbly, and oh-so-Aussie! I couldn’t help chuckling every time she teased Brayden with her Australian slang, and some of the dialogues regarding that actually cracked me up. Although she was stubborn as heck at some points, and made me want to grab her by the shoulders and shake her until she saw reason, she was still a character that felt like a friend. She’s also biracial, by the way! We have a half-Filipino main character!!! And we also have an indigenous Native American: Brayden, son of Grandmother Dream Walker and local hottie. Don’t let his drop-dead gorgeous physique fool you, though; his best trait by far is his heart of gold. Without being bland or passive, Brayden was supportive of Leigh even when everyone else actively turned their backs on her, as well as funny, witty, and intelligent. The chemistry between them was really sweet, and although even the characters themselves see it as an instalove (more like an insta-connection, actually) of sorts, the development of the relationship is still believable and gentle, Leigh and Brayden remaining absolute OTP material. At the beginning of most chapters there’s a fragment from the Book of the First Peoples regarding the ancient knowledge on the Five Elements, which often focuses on the Metal—Leigh. I found this to be an exquisite detail, that really helps give the reader deeper insight into the Five Elements series’ worldbuilding. The way Nicole incorporates different oral traditions and legends from several cultures is awesome, and the blending is excellently done. Anyone who loves to see cultural diversity will definitely hit the jackpot with the Five Elements series! All in all, “StarDust” was a really great book that kept me hooked until the very last page, and even after that thanks to the “TwinFlames” sneak peek. If you enjoy going on adventures, sharp-minded female main characters, swoonworthy love interests, Native and indigenous rep, and science fantasy, then this book is definitely for you.