Receiving an advanced copy of a much-anticipated book is a privilege that few readers experience, but for one journalist, it led to an unforgettable literary journey. When a copy of Imani Erriu's 'Fallen Stars' arrived, the sequel to the TikTok phenomenon 'Heavenly Bodies', it was devoured in a matter of days, leaving a profound impression.
From Indie Darling to Traditional Publishing
Imani Erriu's series first captured hearts as an independently published work, which explains the significant number of ratings and reviews it accumulated on platforms like Goodreads. However, the author has now transitioned to traditional publishing, with the official release of 'Fallen Stars' set for late November 2025. This move brings the beloved story to an even wider audience, though the early buzz suggests the sequel has some towering expectations to meet.
The first book, Heavenly Bodies, was such a triumph that the reviewer admits to weighing it against the iconic 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' (ACOTAR) series, a bold statement in the world of romantasy. Following up such a success was no small task, but the early indications are that Erriu has delivered.
An Unforgettable Heroine and Unpredictable Plot
At the heart of the story is main character Elara, who stands out as a refreshingly dynamic female lead. She is portrayed as the antithesis of typical romantasy characters; she is sassy, sharp-witted, fiercely independent, and knows exactly how to achieve her goals. This compelling characterization makes her a figure readers will undoubtedly adore.
While the first book ended on a cliffhanger that left fans reeling, the reviewer warns that the conclusion of 'Fallen Stars' is even more devastating. It creates an intense, immediate craving for the third instalment, ensuring readers will be left desperate for more. The sequel is described as being even more action-packed and unpredictable than its predecessor, raising the stakes considerably.
Why You Should Ignore the Goodreads Reviews
In a world where many readers, including the reviewer, often consult Goodreads ratings to gauge their interest in a book, a crucial piece of advice is offered: ignore the existing negativity surrounding Fallen Stars. The reviewer confesses that had they heeded the critical reviews, they would have missed out on a brilliant continuation of one of the best books they have read all year.
This serves as a powerful reminder that while online reviews can be helpful, sometimes forming your own opinion is the best path. The reviewer, having not read the original indie version, cannot compare the two, but they confidently assert that any fan of Heavenly Bodies will enjoy the second instalment in equal measure.
For those who need further convincing, the official blurb sets the stage for Elara's next adventure: Elara is vengeful. Her love is in a deep sleep, trapped between the realms of life and death. Her enemy has vanished, Enzo’s only connection to the waking world with him. And a life that Elara has never wanted has been thrust upon her, along with a new power she can not control. Now a disgraced queen, Elara must go on a quest to find a way to wake Enzo, while also seeking help from the Titans, a league of gods who ruled the world long before the Stars. But there is a darker power at play, one that even Ariete, King of the Stars, is afraid of. With enemies at every turn, Elara must tread carefully if she has any hope of waking her soulmate, and keeping the promise she made - that every Star will fall.
