SCALES AND STARDUST

Fourteen-year-old Aster Lourdes is now the Major, ruler of the Bear Highen, but there’s still turmoil in the kingdoms in this sequel to The Bear House (2021).

When a star falls from On-High, something that hasn’t happened in 200 years, royalty from all over flock to the Kingdom of Felisbrook for the Shooting Star Parade. The new Queen of Felisbrook, Iris Goreman, although selected by a High Beast, isn’t accepted by everyone. Some in the kingdom are still loyal to the previous—now exiled—ruler. When Iris, Aster, and Aster’s friends Dev, Lorc, and Quintin discover a mysterious girl in the Deadwood, they have no idea of the danger that awaits. The Moon Door is open, and the Terror Maids, a trio of sisters turned into Moon Demons, have plans for the girl that threaten the entire Highen. This medieval fantasy has court politics, lovable and unique beasts, spooky evil creatures, and just a hint of romance. The intricate lore of this constellation-inspired world continues to grow. As before, there’s a complete story arc but still many open threads that could be explored. Patience is required, as this tale takes a while to get going and sometimes the writing feels repetitive, but it pays off in a cinematic finale. Most characters are assumed White; Iris has brown skin.

Not quite as captivating as the first book, but the rich worldbuilding continues to shine.