Have you read Alex Aster’s other books? What elements from those books do you hope will be in Starside?
In the first chapter we are told that the challenge our main character is about to take on is risky, but the rewards are worth it. What would make battling other people and legendary beasts worth it for you?
Silver is the strongest metal and is seen as the highest. What do you think of the magic system so far?
We are told Aris has strange, coloured eyes. Not long after, we are told about the immortals whose eyes glitter like gems. Do you think these two things could be connected?
Did you think there would be a metal higher than Silver?
What do you think of our introduction to Harlan Raker?
Why do you think Stellan returned with an empty chalice?
At the end of Chapter One, Aris confesses to us her true plan to join the Questral. What do you think of her plan? Do you think she will be able to achieve it?
Who do you think stripped the books of their ink? Was it the gods? The immortals?
Why do you think that even after Aris has made it into the culling, Stellan is refusing to share information on how to survive in Starside?
Aris reveals to us why she is covered up, head to toe. Why do you think she has cursed markings?
Who do you think killed Stellan?
Stellan tells Aris to find Vander Evren. Who do you think he is? How do you think he will help Aris?
Do you think Aris will travel far with Kira and Zane? Or do you think she will endeavour to do most of the Questral on her own?
Raker’s sword has magic. Did you think that weapons could be imbued with magic?
From the moment Aris enters the castle, she is met with opulence. She also sees the king with his youthful face and luxuries. Which display of wealth do you think is worse? The material things or the fact that the king is unmarred by the same tragedies that his people experience?
Based on the king’s behavior and the opulence we’ve seen, what do you think his ultimate goals are for the Questral?
18 responses to “Starside Day One”
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This is actually my first time reading one of this authors books. But I am very excited.
This is a difficult to answer. I have never thought about it. But maybe good health for my friends and family.
I’m loving the magic system so far. It’s very unique.
Oh I definitely think there is more to her than meets the eye. Pun intended.
Yes, there is definitely metals stronger than Silver.
I’m still figuring him out. But his intriguing.
I think he got betrayed, or his Chalice was stolen.
I think there is more to her story than meets the eye. I think she is going to discover things about herself. But I do think she can achieve her plans.
Yes, I think it was the immortals.
Maybe he forgot? Maybe his time there was so traumatizing that he could not share what happened.
I don’t think she’s cursed. I think she is 10 to 1 chosen.
At this moment I have no idea.
No idea, but maybe he is one of the immortals.
I hope the 3 of them can create an alliance.
Yes
I think the material and waste of material wealth is worse.
More power definitely.
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I’ve read Summer in the City and thought that it was the perfect feel good romcom. I haven’t read her Lightlark series yet, so this is my first time seeing how she creates a fantasy world. I’m eager to see what she puts the characters through – if Day 1’s chapters are anything to go by then it means we’re in for a WILD ride. Some have mentioned that this world is brutal and I have to agree with them.
I don’t necessarily know if anything could make it worth it to me other than my family, friends, furbabies.. then yes. A life time supply of special editions? On a more serious note, if we look at the state of our world and what people go through on a daily basis, it would be worth the risk to see that change.
I’m SO invested in the magic system so far. I think it’s pretty unique too, especially when we see the introduction of Starside steel and just how powerful and rare that is.. I’m eager to learn more about the world and magic system.
Of course the eyes are connected! It has to be, right? I was side eyeing the entire time when reading that. Her eyes and the immortals eyes would not be mentioned otherwise. Well, at least I hope it’s connected as it will make it all the more interesting.
Yes, I suspected that there would be a metal higher than silver but I didn’t anticipate for it to be revealed so early on in the story.
I know I’m not alone when I say I’m fully invested in Harlan Raker.. What’s his story? What does his face look like? Why is he a part of this? Give me more. Give me everything.
I didn’t really put much thought into Stellan’s empty chalice at the time (I thought we’d be able to find it out when she went home… but sadly that didn’t happen) but I hope that his story is revealed.
Aris seems like a strong, resilient and capable character. I have no doubt that she’ll be able to achieve what she sets out to do but I know that there are going to be a ton of obstacles in her way. I have a feelings she’s going to learn things aren’t what they seem – and she’s already seeing that in the castle.
I suspect that the gods had something to do with stripping the ink from the books but I’m mostly suspicious of the King, if i’m being honest.
He didn’t want her to go. Maybe he physically couldn’t say anything to her? I don’t think that he would have let her gone in completely blind so maybe he was going to but just didn’t have the chance.
I AM SO CURIOUS OVER HER MARKINGS AND WHAT THEY MEAN. She does mention the day she got her markings more than once so I’m circle back to this question. I also suspect that Harlan has the same markings.
Maybe Harlan? There were so many people with motive to kill him. Orders from the King, maybe? To prevent him from warning Aris or telling her something he shouldn’t. I think it goes beyond the dagger.
Vander is someone who he knows will help her now that he can’t – someone who helped him through his own trials? I’ll laugh if it’s Harlan.
Yes, I think Aris will travel with Kira and Zane. Maybe not at first. Too much emphasis is placed on them being told to complete the Questral alone but that may be the issue – maybe they need to work as a team to survive it. But, I do love a found family trope so maybe it’s just me hoping.
I assumed that Starside steel wasn’t just ordinary steel so I’m not surprised that it was imbued with magic. Emphasis is also placed on the swords so it makes sense they’re magical.
I think the material things are worse. To some extent, we expect royalty to live better than us and to not experience the same tragedies that we do. But it’s seeing how he lives and the degree of excess, where he could be helping his people and ensuring they suffer less. The opulence is a slap in the face to his people and those suffering. We see Aris think similar to this and just how disgusted she is knowing how she’s had to live and those around her and then seeing the castle and it’s weath.
He’s power hungry. We already saw that in him exchanging swords for the promise of power. He’s never going to stop until someone stops him. Him getting Raker involved is suspicious though so I wonder how / why that is and why this Questral is different.
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No, this is my first Alex Aster book. This being her first adult romantasy novel I’m looking forward to seeing how she builds her world and how will the magic system be infused in this world.
For the vengeance of my loved ones, friends and family, I would battle any creature if the reward is worth their lives.
Very intrigued. I want to know more because it sounds interesting and how I like how everything is not forced down our throat, info dumping, we’re learning about this magic system at a steady pace.
The connection is the first thing that came to mind when I read that, so yeah, I think they are connected. For that specific feature to be mentioned, the author is giving us a hint of this connection.
I think so and I think this is the metal strong enough to defeat silver, metal of the gods.
A man who has some history with Aris. I’m very curious to learn about his story and Aris is far from being satisfied about what happened in the past and I also think she might know his real face.
I think he might have tried to bargain a way out for Aris, a way to stop her from partaking in the Questrial.
I like her bravery and resilience, she has the right attitude, and I think if she can stay focused and not trust the people she meets along the way easily, she will succeed with this plan.
My number one suspect is the king, that man is greedy and selfish, if he could take all the magic and be the sole owner of it, he would do it in a heartbeat.
At this point no one knows better than him, he has walked the path and knows how this will affect Aris. He just wanted to protect her rather than seem to be encouraging her by giving her tips on how to survive.
It could be her connection to the gods, she possess a connection to the gods and I think these marking might have a thing or two to do with that.
I might be too upfront about this, but my suspect is Harlan Raker, he’s the only person I can suspect to having the knowledge about the relationship of Aris and Stellan. Although I think this might have been done at the request of someone higher than him.
I kept wondering and asking myself as to why is Aris not mentioning this because I’m very curious myself, but I think it might be someone who helped Stellan during his Questrial times, someone who might have been a participant as well or informant who is trusted by Stellan might be able to help Aris.
As much as I wish for her to trust her guts and do this on her own, because I don’t trust anyone at this point, I think she will lean more to the two, helping Kira was an indicator that she will continue being a team player.
Yes, they can be imbued to be stronger and deadly.
Tragedy is what led her here and seeing the king as someone who is not unfazed by the same tragedies is such a slap on the face and I know she will hate that more than any material things that she sees or that the king can possess.
Help those who sworn an oath to giving him half the magic to win the Questrial, anyone else who didn’t will be seen as an enemy to the king and his ruling. He is greedy and power hungry, he will do whatever it takes to have more magic and more power.
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Yes Lightlark and Nightbane focus on deadly trials secrets romance and big twists I expect the same tension hidden identities and betrayal in Starside. Something life changing like freedom saving someone I love or gaining real power. It feels structured and ranked which makes it interesting and leaves room for something even stronger. Yes it feels like clear foreshadowing that Aris is not ordinary.
Yes it feels like a setup for a hidden or forbidden level. He feels dangerous controlled and not fully trustworthy. Either he failed or something bigger interfered. She is determined so she will get far but it will cost her. Most likely the immortals to control knowledge. He is either protecting her or the truth is too dangerous. It likely connects to forbidden magic or her past. Someone powerful and intentional tied to the bigger plot. A key figure who will guide or help Aris.
Only for a while she will likely go on her own later. Yes but it shows how rare and powerful certain people are. The king being untouched by suffering because it shows how disconnected he is.
M Power control and possibly hiding something darker. -
1. This is my first Alex Aster book
2. For a better future
3. I really enjoy it. I havent read anything like this before. I like that it is like alchemy.
4. It is possible. If she is not connected to the immortals. Maybe the gods themselves?
5. Oh yes definitely. It think the plot will be twiting quite a lot
6. I am itrigued by Harlan Raker. I dont think he is only it for the quest to win magic.
7. I think he has hidden the magic in the chalice
8. Not in this book. I think there will be a majot reveal to either change her mind or change her course
9. The immortals and the gods
10. I think he knows something and in his way wants to protect her
11. Either Cadan
12. Honestly I have no idea
13. I think they might team up for protection but later might betray one another
14. Oh yes
15. The fact that the king is umarred by the same tragedies
16. To gain more magic and power -
I have not read any of her other books yet
In Aris’ case its vengeance which i would say is reasonable… although in not sure if I would be able to do the same I dont think im brave enough to fight other people and beast. But if I had to choose id would be also for vengeance instead of magic.
Im loving the magic system and its really intriguing.
Yes I definitely think it could be connected, its not mentioned for no reason 😉
Yes its a possibility and would make for a great plot twist!
Harlan is OBVS the love interest in this story, I love the enemies aspect already!
I think Stellan was hiding something from Aris and I hope we find out what it was soon!
Yes definitely she has the will power to do what she needs. I love her fierceness.
It might be the gods.. or the king or maybe someone else? Has to be someone with reason to do it.
Again I think he was hiding something from her, something he doesnt want her finding out.
I think she might also be an immoraliteit somehow.
I think the king or maybe harlan…
Vander might know something that can help Aris get to the gods.
I think it would be smart to travel with them. I think they will be strong side characters so i think she will stick to traveling with them.
Yes i do think so.
Definitely the fact that he is unmarred by the same tragedies as his people.
He wants to send us many people on the questral so that he can get the magic from them so that he doesnt have to go himself.
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1. I have not read any of her other books.
However I am hoping for high-stakes trials, morally grey characters, and perhaps some plot twists.2. It would have to be something deeply personal – perhaps freedom, or saving someone I love.
3. It’s really intriguing so far. Using metals as a power feels structured, unique, and mysterious.
4. It definitely feels intentional. That kind of detail rarely shows up without meaning think there’s a strong chance Aris has a hidden connection to something.
5. Honestly, yes. Fantasy worlds love a hidden ultimate tier, so it wouldn’t be surprising.
6. He comes across as dangerous, mysterious and controlled. Definitely someone to watch closely.
7. I think he might have failed but it could maybe also mean he refused something.
8. A bit of both. It’s bold, but it also feels like she’s underestimating just how brutal the challenge will be.
9. I think it’s likely the gods trying to suppress knowledge. Information is power, after all.
10. Possibly to protect her.
11. It hints at forbidden magic. It could also mark her as dangerous or a chosen one.
12. It feels too targeted to be random. I think it might be one of the other contenders.
13. He sounds like a key figure in Starside. (his name is on the map). Maybe a rebel, or a mentor.
14. Probably not all the way until the end of the quest. Found family might form briefly, but her journey feels like one that will isolate her at the end.
15. Yes most definitely. It raises the stakes and makes things exciting when weapons hold power.
16. The king being unmarred feels worse. Wealth can be excessive, but being untouched by suffering while ruling over those who aren’t creates a disconnection and detachment.
17. It could be about entertainment, or even selecting individuals for a hidden purpose, but most definitely claiming some magic for himself.
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1. I haven’t read any of Alex Aster’s books before. I’ve seen a lot of people talk about her Lightlark series, but this is my first one, so I’m not really sure what to expect. It was sold as a romantasy, so I’m expecting good world building, some romance, and a solid epic fantasy.
2. In real life, I don’t think there’s anything I would literally risk dying for like that. Metaphorically, yes, for my friends and family I would fight. But actually going into something knowing I could die is very hard to justify.
3. I really like the magic system. The hierarchy of metals is really interesting and I don’t think I’ve seen something like this before. Usually it’s elemental or thought based or just manipulating metal, but not that different metals have different qualities. So I’m really intrigued by that.
4. Yes. I think Aris is either an immortal or half-immortal. She was probably born on Starside and is some sort of lost princess or something.
5. I might have slightly spoiled this for myself, but I saw there’s something called Starside steel which is stronger than silver because it’s enchanted. Generally you would expect gold to be the highest, so that’s interesting.
6. I think he’s a d*ck. A jerk. But I also feel like that’s intentional. It’s setting up enemies to lovers or reluctant allies, so we’re supposed to think that before we find out there’s more to him.
7. I don’t think he actually did. I think he returned with Aris and just said it was empty. There’s definitely more going on there.
8. I don’t fully understand her motivation yet. I don’t get why she hates the gods so much or why she’s so driven to change things. Everyone is suffering, so I feel like there’s more to her story that we don’t know yet.
9. I don’t think it was random. It feels like a punishment. Something must have happened and this was the consequence of it. And I suspect its the King
10. I think it ties back to what or who she is. He doesn’t want her going to Starside because people will realise she’s half god or immortal or whatever she actually is.
11. I think it’s connected to her being from Starside. I don’t think she’s what everyone thinks she is.
12. I think it could be the king, or at least ordered by the king.
13. I have no idea yet, but I’m sure we’ll find out soon. I think he probably knows something about Aris’s true history.
14. I think it’s going to be a reluctant alliance. That’s usually how these things go. Even if they’re competing, it’s better to have some kind of alliance.
15. I didn’t expect it. It made me feel like Raker has magic rather than just the sword being magical.
16. I think they’re both equally tasteless. All that silver being shown off when people are struggling is bad, but also the fact that he’s so young and untouched by everything his people are going through makes it worse. It shows selfishness.
17. I think it’s power. If he’s a villainous king, then it’s going to be self-serving and about becoming more powerful.
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Q: Have you read Alex Aster’s other books? What elements from those books do you hope will be in Starside?
A: I’ve only read Summer In The City and I really enjoyed her storytelling in that along with the romance. I’m excited to explore her fantasy side!Q: In the first chapter we are told that the challenge our main character is about to take on is risky, but the rewards are worth it. What would make battling other people and legendary beasts worth it for you?
A: The magic would be worth it alone but saving someone close to me might also drive me to do it.Q: Silver is the strongest metal and is seen as the highest. What do you think of the magic system so far?
A: I LOVE IT. And I love that silver is put first over gold instead of being runner up (as a silver girlie who also loves gold). I love that all metals get their time to shine and that some families are named after it – like the house of Sterling.Q: We are told Aris has strange, coloured eyes. Not long after, we are told about the immortals whose eyes glitter like gems. Do you think these two things could be connected?
A: I have not thought this far ahead yet but it most definitely will be!Q: Did you think there would be a metal higher than Silver?
A: I imagine the magic reinforces even the strongest metal so it makes sense!Q: What do you think of our introduction to Harlan Raker?
A: It’s giving Peeta and Katniss in the rain with the burnt bread and I’m here for every second of it. I can’t wait to see what happened with their initial interaction.Q: Why do you think Stellan returned with an empty chalice?
A: He probably had to give some to the King or made an oath and had to repay someone with most of it.Q: At the end of Chapter One, Aris confesses to us her true plan to join the Questral. What do you think of her plan? Do you think she will be able to achieve it?
A: I highlighted her quote with the silver pen – get it girl 💅 I’ll be here for her journey. I think she can achieve anything she puts her mind to but there is definitely more to her story and the truth might change her course.Q: Who do you think stripped the books of their ink? Was it the gods? The immortals?
A: Definitely someone higher up who did not want people gaining knowledge.Q: Why do you think that even after Aris has made it into the culling, Stellan is refusing to share information on how to survive in Starside?
A: He might have had to make an oath to not talk about it, or they wiped his memories. I am sure he would have helped her if he was able to.Q: Aris reveals to us why she is covered up, head to toe. Why do you think she has cursed markings?
A: She is the chosen one. I’m not sure for what yet.Q: Who do you think killed Stellan?
A: I don’t know but whoever it was better hide from me. That scene broke my heart.Q: Stellan tells Aris to find Vander Evren. Who do you think he is? How do you think he will help Aris?
A: I think he might be a rebel or friend of Stellan in Starside.Q: Do you think Aris will travel far with Kira and Zane? Or do you think she will endeavour to do most of the Questral on her own?
A: I hope to see more of them both, they’re both amazing characters already. I love Zane and his axe scenes.Q: Raker’s sword has magic. Did you think that weapons could be imbued with magic?
A: I did not think anything to be perfectly honest, I’m just vibing with the book. It does make sense and reminds me of Thor and Mjölnir.Q: From the moment Aris enters the castle, she is met with opulence. She also sees the king with his youthful face and luxuries. Which display of wealth do you think is worse? The material things or the fact that the king is unmarred by the same tragedies that his people experience?
A: I think having the opulent decorations is worse as some of those things can be life changing to his people, such as the water stream used as decoration.Q: Based on the king’s behavior and the opulence we’ve seen, what do you think his ultimate goals are for the Questral?
A: His goals are definitely to siphon magic. Or take it all to himself. -
1. I’ve only read Summer in the City! I enjoyed the overall flow of the story and how easy it was to dive in and would hope for the same with this one!
2. If I was in a similar situation as Aris then I’d be more inclined to enter something as daunting! I don’t have those kind of survival skills so I have no desire to enter something like this 😂
3. It’s unique! I love that metals a source of power in this world!
4. Absolutely! Maybe she is descended from an Immortal
5. I was not expecting it but I was wondering if there would be something more powerful than silver considering silver is not the most powerful IRL.
6. He reminded me alot of Rowan Whitethorn from ToG. Immensely powerful and mysterious! I’m so eager to learn more about him
7. Perhaps the magic was stolen or he had to sacrifice the magic for something more important to him!
8. She is greatly fueled by her vengeance and it seems like she has a complete disregard for her life. I’d be interested to see how her opinions shifts as the story progresses but I do think it will drive her during the toughest parts of her journey.
9. I think the Gods – it feels like they might be hiding something from both parties
10. I think he wanted to try and deter Aris as much as possible in order to protect her.
11. If I had to guess, I would say she’s marked by the Gods in some way and maybe she is they key to their downfall. I’m so curious about what this plus her eye color means!
12. I suspect one of the other challengers that taunted Aris killed him so that they could get her blade. She might have been followed!
13. Maybe a friend on the other side that would be able to assist her during the challenges since he knew it was too late for him to share anything useful with her.
14. I think she’d travel fairly far with them provided that they don’t betray her. I am a little skeptical about Kira and I feel like her motivations might turn her against the group quickly if she was pushed.
15. No and the magic system just became a little cooler! Considering the amount of emphasis they placed on the sword, it’s not far-fetched that they would contain magic.
16. I think both are equally as bad. Because it shows the blatant luxury that the King indulges in while the people suffer, which is so cruel. His greed is horrible to witness and his thirst for power plus arrogance will likely lead to his downfall.
17. I think he uses it as an opportunity to steal magic from the people who are able to extract for his own selfish gain and benefit. He rewards some people in order to keep up the farce of the Questral.
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I’ve only read her contemporary romance Summer In The City. Hoping this one has a great mmc like the she did in SITC haha
Nothing oop jk. Definitely magic or happiness & health for myself and loved ones.
I like it, its not intimidating to keep up with plus it’s definitely something different imo so it makes it really fun and cool to see how its executed.
I think Aris is something else entirely and the colour of her eyes and markings on her body are an indication of whatever she could be…
Yes, something that’s meant for Aris perhaps
I like that he is this badas$ untouchable guy that is insanely intimidating. I can’t wait to see him fold for Aris hehe
I think he bargained for something. He made some sort of deal or sacrifice.
Ambitious and reckless for sure however Aris is determined so she could have a shot and succeed but it ain’t gonna be easy…
Probably the immortals
Not gonna lie I was a little annoyed with him for not sharing helpful information with Aris like he could see nothing was gonna change her mind about going, least he could’ve done was help her. Maybe he had hope she’d change her mind or he wanted her to succeed on her own as he knew she had the strength to or he was forbidden from saying anything…
I dont think they’re cursed markings, I think it means something else. A gift in disguise?
No idea, a small part of me is assuming Raker did
An immortal? A royal? Give her information about who she really is. Reveal some secrets
She’d think she wants to do it alone but we can tell she secretly wants friends and likes them.
I thought as much yes. It just seems like something that could be. The sword gives off such mjolnir/thor vibes with it coming back to the wielder!
Both but more so the latter. It’s despicable to see that the king lives in such a manner where he doesn’t care about his people when its his job as King to see to them. Super selfish and aggravating when people of privilege and power behave with such an indifference and zero humanity!
His goal only involves himself and his welfare and betterment. Whatever serves him a purpose deserves finery and extravagance. He wants more magic & power.
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This is my first time reading an Alex Aster book. I love fantasy / romantasy books. I’m excited for this read. Full circle my first Alex Aster book and her first romantasy.
If I had to place myself within the lore , I’d say redemption , justice for innocent lives lost and the fight for the greater good to overthrow the system that has the people suffering.
I didn’t expect silver but the magic system has me really CURIOUS! I love how we get bits of information about it. This makes me even more excited for Starside , where “swords have magic and power isn’t inherited”
I definitely think there is a connection and I’m keen to see the story unravel , about her and why her village was burned down by a God.
I think so for sure! But maybe it has to be wielded by someone powerful like Aris.
I love how mysterious Harlan reaction is. Always watching , keeping to the ‘shadows’ , feared by everyone but there is definitely more to the story. Can’t wait to see how the relationship between Aris & him unravels.
I think Stellan got rid of it because he found out something.
Look where there is a will , there is a way. I don’t think she has much of a plan just that she knows she needs to survive the culling to get to Starside. She’s quick , great survival skills and hyper aware. This makes it even more exciting to see what happens as we get into the book.
I have no idea and I look forward to finding out.
I suspect for the same reason he came back with an empty chalice. He is protecting her from something bigger and I think the King is in search of that exact thing which is where Harlan fits in. But I think Harlan has an agenda of his own too.
Well it definitely has something to do with her disobeying her parents and going somewhere she shouldn’t have gone with her sister. I figured she was hiding something because she was covered up despite the heat and others struggling with it. Now that it’s revealed I’m even more intrigued.
I think maybe Kira , wild guess. I’d love to know because the loss cemented Aris desire for vengeance. Now she can’t fail in her quest.
I think it’s someone in Starside. He will probably be able to tell her about Sullen and perhaps offer help or how to get back without risking her life further!
They’ll look out for each other to a point but I sense a betrayal.
Yes!
That the King is unmarred by the same tragedies that his people experience
Mm I think he wants control of all magic and not just what he gets from those who partake in the questral.
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1. Yes, I like the simplicity of the worldbuilding. I am anticipating that.
2. Eternal magical powers!!!
3. I like it. It is different. I hope it goes into more detail. Right now it’s vaguely explained.
4. She definitely has some family history so I think that will be part of the storyline.
5. Most definitely. Fantasies like this are always pushing the power dynamics.
6. Very intriguing and mysterious. I need to know more!
7. I think he gave it up for a different cause that he chooses not to speak about.
8. I would do so too, if I were in her position.
9. I think it was the gods. To erase knowledge and keep people in ignorance of the truth.
10. He is probably hurt or traumatised and doesn’t want her to go through what he went through.
11. Now I definitely think she has some relation to immortals or a higher power.
12. I think it could be someone of the king’s court.
13. He is probably an immortal from Starside. He might have knowledge of the truth that Stellan is withholding.
14. I think she will team up with them but remain on guard of their motives.
15. Yes, I anticipated it.
16. The excessive display of material wealth AND the fact that the king is unbothered by his people’s suffering.
17. He wants the magical power (or something related) for himself.
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1) I have read Lightlark book 1 and 2 – and honestly I’m hoping for something different to those books, but I do hope the story itself is just as good. I couldn’t put Lightlark down!
2) Probably if it involved helping out my family or friends in some major way. To change their lives for the better.
3) The magic system is quite interesting! Especially placing silver above other metals (like gold, for example, in normal circumstances is seen as more valuable and strong). It’s something we’re going to have to keep in mind, as it’s not magic linked to a person, but rather to the metals and items they wield.
4) I definitely think they are connected, considering we know very little about her or her past in these first six chapters.
5) I didn’t but it makes sense that the metal higher than silver would be from another realm, imbued with some kind of magic.
6) I can’t place him as a villain yet nor as a potential love interest or as someone that will be helping Aris in anyway. He definitely has a slight villainous aura at the moment.
7) He probably had to give up his magic somewhere in his journey back from Starside.
8) That’s very ambitious – but I love that we’re told this straight away and we don’t have to guess at her intentions. I can’t tell yet if she will be able to. She seems strong and willing to do what it takes – but I don’t know if she has any particular “talents” that would help her. or people on her side.
9) I think it was whoever is in power, the king? especially if he has been alive and in power for so long. Hiding the truth.
10) He wants to deter her from continuing onward to the culling and potentially to Starside. I think he regrets his own journey and challenge there.
11) She was cursed or born with it – definitely main character energy with those markings.
12) probably one of the challengers that saw her use it and then followed her afterward.
13) Someone who will help her in the Questral, hopefully! Either with skills, weapons or knowledge.
14) Aris will likely start off wanting to do most of the Questral on her own, but probably end up teaming up with Kira and Zane to make it through. Maybe more Kira than Zane at this point but let’s see.
15) It makes sense that they are and can be – it makes them even more desirable.
16) The displays of wealth are worse, I think. Knowing that so many of his subjects live in poverty and worse, he should be doing what he can to alleviate this.
17) His ultimate goal has to be immortality – or breaking open the wall between Stormside and Starside so they are no longer divided.
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This is my first novel by Alex Aster. I have seen considerable excitement surrounding the book, so I am anticipating immersive world-building and a compelling romantasy narrative.
This is a challenging question; however, anything related to protecting my family or friends would serve as sufficient motivation.
The magic system is intriguing. Thus far, it is accessible and well-structured, without feeling overwhelming.
I believe there is likely a connection, possibly included as a subtle Easter egg.
I am inclined to think there is a metal more powerful than silver. The composition of the swords appears to be significant at this stage.
Harlan Raker has captured my interest. I am particularly drawn to brooding and enigmatic male characters.
I have not considered this in depth yet, but I hope it is explored further as the story develops.
I believe she has the capability to achieve her plan. She presents as determined and strong-willed.
I suspect the gods may have been responsible.
Stellan appears to care for Aris and likely did not want her to enter the Quetral. However, I do not believe he would have allowed her to proceed without preparation.
I am intrigued by her markings and their possible significance.
Possibly Harlan or the King.
It could be someone from his past who once assisted Stellan, or an individual who may help Aris understand her markings.
I anticipate that the three of them may form an alliance and journey together.
I assume that the Starside steel is imbued with magic, particularly given the way Harlan wields it.
I believe material indulgence is more problematic, especially when such luxury exists alongside the hardship experienced by many of the King’s subjects.
The King appears power-hungry, so it is plausible that he seeks to accumulate more magic for himself.
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1. I actually haven’t read any of Alex Aster’s other books yet, so Starside is my first introduction to her writing and I’m genuinely excited about that. So far, I’m really hoping for strong character development and deeper emotional connections as the story unfolds. I also can’t wait to see how the magic system expands.
2. Honestly? My sister. Without hesitation. She’s currently dealing with health struggles and an autoimmune disease that’s still being fully diagnosed, on top of hyperthyroidism that’s impacting her body in a major way. She lives in pain most days. If there was something worth risking everything for facing beasts, danger, whatever it took it would be for her health, her peace, and for her to have her quality of life back.
3. I’m absolutely living for this magic system. It feels fresh and honestly one of the most unique ones I’ve come across in a long time. I only got back into reading in mid-2024 as an adult, so everything still feels exciting but this one really stands out.
4. Definitely. That was honestly my first thought. It feels way too intentional to mention both so close together. I think there’s something deeper going on with Aris something ancient, hidden, or forgotten. Especially when you factor in her sky-touched marks, it feels like she’s tied to something bigger than she even realizes.
5. Yes, actually. There’s been so much emphasis placed on silver that it almost felt like setup for a future twist. So I was not surprised when we were introduced to Starside steel.
6. Dangerously mysterious. That’s the best way I can describe him. He gives the kind of energy where you know there’s more beneath the surface, but you can’t quite read him yet but he is definitely more sad boy than bad boy.
7. This one has me thinking. My first thought was that he lost it, it was taken, or he was forced to use it. I don’t have a solid theory yet, but it definitely feels like there’s more to the story than what we’ve been told so far.
8. I do think she’ll achieve it but not in the way she expects. Right now she has one clear goal, but I think the real journey will be discovering who she truly is. I feel like the truth about herself may completely change her mission.
9. I first leaned toward the gods because they’d have the power to erase knowledge and hide truths. But that feels a little too obvious, which makes me suspicious.
10. I think Stellan never truly wanted this life for Aris. It feels less like cruelty and more like protection like he hoped if she knew less, she might walk away before it was too late.
11. I think it’s tied to the destruction of her city and whatever really happened that day.
12. The King. Can’t tell you why but that was my first thought
13. I think Vander Evren was someone Stellan met during his time in the Culling. I think he’ll become a guide figure with key answers for Aris.
14. I’m hoping she travels with them because I love a found family trope. Zane helping her at the gates felt important, and Kira and Aris already have potential. Aris may want to do it alone, but I think they’ll be important to her survival.
15. Definitely. Once we learned about metals and Starside steel, magical weapons felt like a natural next step. I’m most curious whether the magic comes from the weapon itself or the person using it.
16.Material luxuries are one thing, but being unphased by suffering while the people around you carry scars, loss, and hardship feels far more disturbing.
17. Control.
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1. I haven’t read all Alex Aster’s books, but I’ve heard her worlds are intense. I just hope Starside keeps that same danger and strong characters.
2. It would be worth it if it meant freedom, survival, or protecting someone I care about.
3. I like the magic system so far. It feels structured and rule-based.
4. Yes, I think Aris’s eyes and the immortals’ eyes are connected. It feels intentional.
5. I didn’t expect a metal higher than silver, but it makes the world feel bigger.
6. Harlan Raker seems controlled and hard to read. Not sure about him yet.
7. Stellan’s empty chalice feels like something important is missing.
8. Aris’s plan is risky, but she’s determined enough to try.
9. I think the ink was removed by gods or immortals.
10. Stellan not helping feels intentional, like he’s hiding something.
11. Her markings feel linked to her past or something magical.
12. I’m not sure who killed Stellan yet, but it feels like something bigger is involved.
13. Vander Evren sounds dangerous and tied to death or forbidden power.
14. She’ll likely start with Kira and Zane, but rely more on herself later.
15. I didn’t expect magic weapons, but it’s interesting.
16. The king being untouched feels worse than his wealth. His goal feels like control or power through the Questral. -
⚔️I’ve read the Lightlark series. I love the “Centennial” aspect, and the highstakes, once in a century vibe that that brings. I also hope to see a really cool magic system as well.
⚔️I think the ability to save those I care about, or to make a lasting impact on people.
⚔️I think it’s really interesting and also unique. I haven’t read something with quite the same magic system before.
⚔️I think there’s definitely a connection. It is a typical trope of Alex Aster’s, that the FMC have these secret magical abilities.
⚔️Yes, especially because of the gods and the immortals. They must have something magical
⚔️Scary dude for sure. Is this ruthless dude our MMC or just the villain? I’m intrigued to find out.
⚔️I think he either gave up his magic for some reason or had it stolen from him.
⚔️I don’t know if it’s worth dying for. Revenge is never a good motivator for embarking on something like this, and I often don’t connect as much with a revenge plot because they can be derailed by a single moment of self awareness. I think something will happen to change her mind or she will uncover some reason why her feelings are misplaced or something.
⚔️Probably the immortals. I’m actually not sure but they probably wanted to keep all the knowledge and information for themselves.
⚔️I think he definitely doesn’t want her to go, and he’s hoping it will deter her. I also think he was probably deeply traumatised by the experience.
⚔️Goes back to her somehow being connected to the gods, or that she has a secret power or ability we’re going to learn about.
⚔️One of the challengers from the culling for sure. Someone who saw Aris use her blade.
⚔️He may be an immortal in Starside, who helped Stellan during his time there. He may give her a place to stay or even advice that she might need to survive.
⚔️I think she will hope to go far with them but I think her motivations for the QUestral are very different and I don’t know if she can keep up her revenge plot, surrounded by friends who have more wholesome intentions.
⚔️I definitely think so. I think magic systems are so cool, and creating magical weapons is the only logical step.
⚔️I think they’re both equally bad. But the opulence and luxury is the worst. It’s insulting for someone like Aris, who has had to skip meals and struggle for any once she has.
⚔️To serve his own ends definitely. I think he may be taking magic for himself or trying to manipulate the winners.
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