Lightlark (The Lightlark Saga Book 1) (Volume 1) (The Lightlark Saga, 1)

I have mixed feelings about “Lightlark,” but overall, I enjoyed it. The premise of a high-stakes competition on a magical island is intriguing, and the fast pacing kept me engaged. While there are some plot holes and inconsistencies, the story is entertaining if you don’t take it too seriously. The quick pace is filled with tension and twists, though some moments feel rushed. Despite its flaws, I became invested in the characters. It’s not perfect, but it’s a fun fantasy read. If you want a fast-paced, drama-filled escape, “Lightlark” might be worth a try.

Okay, so I know this book is controversial. I did see a lot of the marketing for this book when it first came out, bought it, and then I heard that people were very let down by it. So it has sat on my TBR for years. It was finally re-recommended to me by my sister, so I read it. The reviews for this book are either VERY positive or VERY negative. My verdict? It’s good. Is it groundbreaking and revolutionary? Not really, but it doesn’t have to be. Was it a fun read and an interesting world? Sure! Did I call the plot twist? Yeah, I was a little suspicious of that person, but I didn’t know how they were going to accomplish what they did. Will I continue the series? Probably. Was this over-marketed on TikTok? Most definitely. Is it a little basic on tropes? Yeah, but I read to escape. Not to critically think. It’s like when the dystopian craze of books was coming out, and you had divergent compared to hunger games. This is in the popular romantasy theme, it may have some plot wholes if you over analyze it. This will age like divergent, a product of its time that. And that is perfectly fine! Overall, it’s a good read. I like the characters, I like the world building, I like the vibes. Alex Aster is a talented writer. I am excited to see how she grows as an author, she has great potential.

Absolutely speechless. This book was amazing, the perfect mix of fantasy, action and romance 🌟

Lightlark was a surprisingly beautiful journey into a world where every detail felt meticulously crafted. Alex Aster's world-building immersed me in a landscape that felt both fantastical and real, with every corner of this universe bursting with mystery.

The characters were vivid and engaging. Their development throughout the story is stellar, as they grow and change in ways that feel authentic and deeply satisfying. The relationships between them, particularly the subtle romance that underpins much of the narrative, are handled with a delicate touch, adding depth and emotion without ever overshadowing the action.

And action there is—plenty of it. It achieved a perfect balance between heart-pounding sequences and moments of introspection, making for a story that is as thrilling as it is thought-provoking. The narrative flows seamlessly, keeping you engaged from start to finish, as it weaves together storytelling with bursts of adrenaline.

It's a book that lingers in your mind long after you've turned the final page, leaving you eager for more.

I don’t remember when or why I bought this book, bu I really enjoyed it and will definitely pick up the next one in the series. I kept waiting for a major betrayal and was shocked when it happened. I’m glad Isla found her purpose and what she was truly made of. Book #31 in 2025