QUEEN OF THE NIGHT SKY

A woman is torn between her lover and the enigmatic ruler of a rival kingdom in the conclusion to this romantasy duology.

Following the events of The Starlight Heir (2025), Suraya Saab has been revealed to be a Starkeeper, the only source of naturally occurring magic in the kingdom of Oryndhr. Her abilities were the key to placing Roshan Acharia, illegitimate son of the former ruler, on the throne. First friends and then lovers, they thought they had surmounted most of their obstacles. But as Roshan fights to retain his power, he begins to corrupt Suraya’s magic. Roshan’s desire to subjugate the kingdom is at odds with the man Suraya loves and thought she knew. A shadowy figure soon emerges in her dreams, a man who feels both dangerous and protective. When an assassination attempt on Suraya goes awry, she’s rescued by a mythical dragon-like creature who transports her to the enemy kingdom of Everlea. Ruled by the Night King Darrius, Everlea is teeming with magic and possibility. Suraya instantly recognizes Darrius as the man in her dreams. Darrius has his own connection to Suraya; she’s his fated mate and the woman he’s destined to kill. Caught between the two men and their kingdoms, Suraya must navigate the threat of war, ancient gods, and complex romantic dynamics. Howard expands the richly crafted mythology and worldbuilding from The Starlight Heir, introducing another kingdom with its own distinct culture and community. With all the pining and yearning going on, emotion feel as integral to the book as physical action, though introducing a second love interest does slow down the pace. Everything is wrapped up, but right at the last second.

A twisty sequel that raises the stakes for its main characters.