Review of ‘Charting Stars‘ (The Nine Realms Tales #1) by Micheline Ryckman. An enchanting and whimsical journey that will leave readers with a smile. This cozy fantasy doesn’t aim to be highbrow literary fiction; instead, it excels as a feel-good adventure filled with humor, heart, and delightful characters.
“And you- you must be the child the stars spoke of.”
– Charting Stars
Micheline Ryckman
‘Charting Stars’ by Micheline Ryckman is a whimsical and cozy fantasy with delightful characters and charming humor, perfect for a lighthearted escape
Synopsis
A girl thrown between worlds. A prophecy untold. An unexpected romance. A quest for home.
Stargazer and artist Talia Benson never wanted an adventure. The titles of student, dutiful daughter, and crazy cat lady suited her just fine. But when she’s swept into an unknown world where sentient animals exist, monsters roam, and angelic beings sway fate, she’s forced to adjust to adventuring as she embarks on a quest to return to her quiet Canadian life.
Jarrett is the best runner in the Nine Realms. Well, maybe not the best––still, he’s proud of the reputation he’s built for himself. But with only a squirrel for company during his extensive travels, his social skills have grown rusty. At least, that’s what he tells himself when he impulsively delays an important mission to help a strange, vibrant girl find her way home.
Unbeknownst to most, turmoil brews in the otherworldly Nine Realms. The guardians have seen a shift in the heavens. Something has changed, a prophecy unleashed. A darkness is coming, throwing Talia, the runner she’s failing to suppress her feelings for, and their growing band of fantastical friends into the center of an oncoming war.
Review
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you NetGalley and Titan Books for this eArc.
The story follows Talia, a Canadian girl who finds herself transported to the magical Nine Realms. Accompanied by the charming Jarrett, Talia embarks on a series of lighthearted yet thrilling encounters with various enemies. The narrative is lighthearted but well-structured, providing a perfect blend of whimsy and excitement. The enemies they face add just the right amount of tension to keep readers engaged without overshadowing the story’s cozy nature.
Talia and Jarrett are absolutely adorable. Their chemistry and interactions are heartwarming, making them instantly lovable. The misunderstandings between Talia, with her earthly Canadian references, and the inhabitants of the Nine Realms add a layer of humor and charm to the story. I also really loved the addition of Bash and Moses; together with Talia, Jarrett, and Maren, they formed the perfect little group, each with their own personality that both challenged and complemented one another. However, more background information on characters like Maren and Jora would have enriched the narrative. Hopefully, future installments will delve deeper into their stories.
Another thing I really liked it the concept of allocated animals. It is fascinating, though I would have loved to hear QB speak, just like Drew. Maybe just like a couple of phrases to give the squirrel even more of a personality.
As for world-building, the Nine Realms are vividly described, immersing readers in a world that feels both magical and cozy. Ryckman masterfully crafts a rich and diverse setting where each realm has its own unique charm and challenges.
The Star Trek references are a delightful bonus for fans (I am fans), adding to the overall enjoyment.
Micheline Ryckman’s engaging and fast-paced writing makes the story flow effortlessly, making it easy to devour in a single sitting. Ryckman herself describes ‘Charting Stars‘ as a comedic, cozy (but spirited) fantasy, and it truly lives up to this description. It’s a book designed to make readers feel good, and it certainly succeeds.
Would I recommend it?
‘Charting Stars‘ is a whimsical and heartwarming start to The Nine Realms Tales series. It’s a fast-paced, well-written fantasy that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment. I can’t wait to see where Talia and Jarrett’s adventures take them next!
Rating
9/10
Details
- Trigger warnings / Abandonment
- Representation / Main character of color
- Genre / Fantasy
- Pages / 248
- Publication date / June 7th, 2024
- Publisher / Whimsical Publishing
- About the author / Micheline Ryckman lives on a farm in the Rocky Mountains of Canada with her family and multiple pets. When she’s not spending time with said family and pets she writes, reads, and illustrates. It was her love of art and literature that inspired her to build Whimsical Publishing up to the point where she could publish other authors and support other artists. She gives thanks everyday for how her little company continues to grow and do just that.
With love,
heavenlybookish 