A nice easy-to-read palette cleanser. A lovely take on the One Thousand and One Nights. We follow our characters on a grand adventure in a land of sand and heat. The descriptions of this world had me painting pictures in my mind.
I would recommend for young adults and up

The Stardust Thief will transport you, enchant you, and revive your belief in the magic of storytelling. I highly recommend this book! Stunning, a page-turner which stays long in the memory!

This is a debut adult fantasy inspired by 1001 Nights stories that I enjoyed a lot. It's an engaging adventure story, fast paced, entertaining, full of magic - jinns and ifrits and magical relics

The world building is outstanding, it transports right into the desert in a very real and very magical way. The desert with all its secrets and magic was like a living character in the story. The magic system is not overly complicated, it made sense to make and was easy to follow which is not always the case in high fantasy.

We have a group of different, even opposite characters brought together by the circumstances together on a quest through the desert. Aisha stood out to me with her loyalty and revenge that fueled her action in the story. She starts a a jinn hunter with a single focus on her mission only to learn things are not always what they seem to be, there is more than loyalty and revenge. There is friendship and trust and tentative even if elusive happiness.

Mazen is a gentle, bookish second son of the sultan, carrying his mother's love of love of stories, dreaming of adventure but being completely ill-suited for it - he is shy, pampered and protected. He doesn't become a fearless warrior but he learns how to go for things he wants, he learns to act instead of always hiding. He suffers betrayal and loss but gains friends (sort of) that he wants to keep safe and protect.

Loulie - is everything - a force of nature unstoppable, independent but also vulnerable, we see her completely defeated and in despair only to find her strength again, not without the help of Qadir. Her resilience is formidable but it's her vulnerability that broke me. Her grief, her sense of loss, of her own self included, was heart-breaking.

Qadir is a very interesting character in this story - Loulie's sullen bodyguard for those who don't know them but in truth he is her most trusted friend, her guardian. Yet, he remains mysterious, secretive almost till the end. Theirs was really the most interesting relationship for me. They are very close, they are each other's destiny (not in a romantic sense). He needs her as much as she needs him.

The story plays a lot with lies and deception, the different personas the characters assume and I loved seeing that the world is not just black and white, it's all about nuance. People have many sides, they are always changing and growing.

Another central element in the story was the storytelling itself, the power of words to shape our world. I have always loved 1001 Nights for the magic of the stories Scheherazade tells, they create worlds and save lives. Mazen is Scheherazade's son and he carries her heritage as a storyteller.

There is no cliffhanger but the ending made me excited for the sequel. The desert has so many more stories to tell. Mazen and Loulie's adventure is far from over.

CW: parental death, patricide, violence, torture

This is one of those books which, for me at least, promises a lot but doesn't really deliver on most of it - I'm often left wondering if this is a first-time novel issue, as that seems to be a common theme when a good premise is dramatically underused.

Anyway, the basic premise of The Stardust Thief, is that it's set in a world where the jinn are both feared for their power but also envied and hunted for the same - their blood has magical properties and there are also 'relics' which contain elements of their power (usually some kind of device like our protagonist's compass, which can locate missing things or people). The book itself is set up with chapters from different points of view, which is rarely my favourite way of organising a story, especially if you feel the need to label them (as this book does) with the character's name. Is this in case you can't actually tell one character's perspective from another?

Our main character was rescued as a child from the massacre of her tribe and now makes a living finding relics along with her rescuer/erstwhile bodyguard, who hides his jinn identity from everyone else. She's blackmailed into a particular mission by a prince who leads a group of jinn killers but who then uses jinn magic to send his younger (and eminently disposable) brother on the trip instead, along with one of said jinn killers. The rest of the book consists of their journeys and adventures.

It's always a difficult sell when your reader is left only giving a crap about one relationship (our protagonist and her friend/parental figure) and not really caring all that much about the other main characters. At least there's no attempts made, or if there are then they're really low key, of pushing a romantic storyline between our protagonist and the prince she's travelling with, as that would have been the last straw for me. As it is, the world-building is excellent (though a little heavy handed at times) but the characters just aren't written strongly enough against that backdrop and I was left thumbing through quite often to get to the end. Not a promising set-up for the first book of a trilogy!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, via Netgalley. This is my honest review of the book in question.

A mesmerizing tale I've read in a very long time!

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC.

I would like to thank NetGalley for providing me with an enhanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Stardust Thief is an incredibly gorgeous story full of adventure that flows through the pages like desert sands. It never fascinates or excites.
To me, the most intriguing feature is how the book had the interweaving of history related to what happened at the time. Compared to other parts of the book, which seemed to be drawn out, in time uninteresting.
The storytelling in these stories really drew me in. I admit, I had to skim through some parts, as I was not particularly interested in what was happening. However, there were some exciting moments
I felt that by the end of The Stardust Thief, a lot of memorable characters and concepts were created and ready for the series. Unfortunately, I still couldn't deal with the book for most of its duration. All three characters are based on intriguing philosophical and intellectual principles, but I don't think we've learned much about them. There are a lot of combat situations that convey an adventurous sense, but that also means that many elements of connection happen quickly or even backstory - I can't help thinking that many of the most fascinating incidents end up happening.

Wow, this book was incredible! I’ve found it difficult to put my thoughts into words because I was honestly just blown away.

The world building and the way the author crafted it to make the locations so real really took me out of reality, placing me in this world I just want to find out more about. I didn’t want to pull myself out of the book; I wanted to live in it and I’m so happy this is a series. I already cannot wait to jump back in.

I loved the characters. Every one felt like a real person, that I was walking beside them listening to them tell their story. The plot felt unique whilst also taking inspiration from folklore. And I LOVED that because the author weaved it together so beautifully, throwing twist after twist at me and always keeping me on my toes.

I cannot wait to get my hard copy of this, and for the rest of the series to release. It cannot come soon enough! Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author, for a chance to read and review this incredible book!

An absolutely stunning fantasy brimming with adventure that spills across the pages like the desert sands, The Stardust Thief is equal parts enchanting and gripping. I cannot wait to see what Chelsea has in store for us next.

My gratitude to NetGalley for providing me an advanced copy in exchange for a review.

The Stardust Thief is an adult, Arab inspired fantasy that immediately piqued my interest when I saw the synopsis. I thought it had a lot of potential, but ultimately, that potential was not reached. I mean, it's a good, solid book, but it didn't impress me that much.

The characters were okay. I liked them, but they also felt a little flat to me. Like halfway through and I felt nothing, except for maybe Mazen. I think objectively, Mazen and his characterization was unique, because so often the main male character is dark and brooding or suave or something of that sort. Mazen is incompetent, sometimes his actions makes you want to bonk his head, and I really enjoyed his character.

The most interesting aspect for me is how there were tales inserted through the book that connected with what was currently happening. The storytelling in those stories really sucked me in compared to the other parts of the book, which felt slow and sometimes even boring. Admittedly, there were portions I had to skim because I wasn't all that invested in what was going on. There were a few exciting moments though, especially near the middle part that had me on the edge of my seat and gasping and wondering at what was going to happen next.

The author definitely has potential to write better books and I'm looking forward to the next books that they will be publishing. Still on the fence if I will continue the series or not. Overall, I think this is still a solid fantasy book despite its issues, and I feel like a lot of people will enjoy it, especially those who are just dipping their toes into the genre.

Thank you to Netgalley and Orbit for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Last year I got really into the Shadow and Bone/Six of Crows series and I fell in love with this in exactly the same way. I love a book that transports me, and this epic Arab fantasy certainly did just that! It’s full of rich, evocative description that sweeps you away into a world of magic and stories. I loved spotting the familiar tales of the 1001 Nights - the magic lamp, the 40 thieves, Scheherazade, etc - and how they were weaved into the narrative. The magical relics were great fun (couldn’t help thinking the compass is very Jack Sparrow and the shadow relic very Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak!).

However, the best thing about this book for me is that it’s full of loveable, 3-dimensional characters with realistic flaws. When we first met Loulie I thought, ooh brilliant, a badass female character with bags of personality… then I met Aisha, who is just as badass, if not more! I also loved the contrast between the three princes: cocky Omar, studious Hakim, and Mazen the underdog, who develops so well as a character throughout.

I do think there were times when the story became a little convoluted and it was difficult to understand the narrative. However, there was a delicious twist near the end and I am itching to read the next instalment!

"One cannot know the outcome of a journey if one is not brave enough to take it."

Loulie, Midnight Merchant and purveyor of illegal jinn relics, must cross the desert with the Sultan's son in search of an enchanted lamp, long lost in the shifting sands of the Sandsea and believed to contain a mighty jinn. Accompanied by Qadir, Loulie's jinn bodyguard and faithful companion, and Aisha, one of the legendary Forty Thieves, the group of adventurers face betrayal and unlikely allegiances at every turn, from a mysterious killer in black robes, to ghouls and jinn, to the most formidable opponent of all: their own selves.

The worldbuilding is rich and vibrant, and Abdullah paints such a wonderful picture of rolling deserts and vibrant cities. The tales that she sprinkles in throughout the story are a wonderful way to impart more of the world's lore to the reader.

The characters were compelling, each with their own flaws, their own strengths and weaknesses. Their motivations were believable, and I enjoyed watching each one grow in their own way, at their own pace.

Each chapter was bite-sized, taking only a few minutes to read, making it the perfect "just one more chapter" book, and easy to hop in and out of during spare moments. Each main character takes turns being the focus of each chapter, letting the reader really get to know each one's inner thoughts and their heart.

Occasionally I was left a little confused by the action scenes, which tended to be quite chaotic. During the final encounter, I felt as though I lost the thread a few times and had to backtrack in order to pick it back up again.

I'm looking forward to continuing on with this trilogy. I'm invested! I am also obsessed with the dynamic between Loulie and Qadir, and I wonder what sort of hero gentle Mazen will turn out to be?

UM...?! I already knew this was going to be a 5-star story before I even read it. Also, to anyone who has read this majestic book: who is your favourite, and why is it Qadir? (Also, I NEED TO SEE QADIR AGAIN AGH.)

The Stardust Thief is a beautiful start to an Arabic fantasy trilogy inspired by stories from One Thousand and One Nights. It follows a merchant who sells relics, her jinn bodyguard, a cowardly prince and a thief associated with the Forty Thieves, and through a series of events, they are sent to find a legendary lamp and the powerful jinn trapped within it.

Within this world, the desert isn’t some exotic landscape with little character and is restricted to being home to monsters and villains: it’s a rolling landscape that hides secrets in its ever-shifting dunes; it’s a home that many storytelling wanderers miss when away in cities; it gifts you the stars as you go to sleep. This is just to say I love how the desert is a vivid setting full of life in the book. And this is just ONE aspect of the book's worldbuilding. Wait 'till you read the rest! (And I can't wait for what's to come in the next one!)

A prominent theme of the novel is storytelling: it's a way for people to get together after a long day of travel; it's a favourite pastime of the cowardly prince; it's a way for truths to live on, even in unrecognizable forms; and more. Additionally, I freaking love all the fables and myths that are smoothly interwoven within the folds of the story. It just adds more richness to the book's world.

Some quick-fire notes:
- I love this band of characters and the arcs they go through. GOD, and the slow reveal of secrets (I'm especially looking at you, QADIR)? The internal struggles? If there's anything these characters aren't, it's boring.

- Twist after twist after twist! Literally can’t get enough of them. Admittedly, I was too swept away by the magic of the book to remember to wear my detective hat at all times, but I'm happy to have at least predicted *some* of the twists!

- I'm nervous about what will happen in the next two books.

Overall, a MUST-READ!

Thanks to Netgalley and Orbit for providing me with the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

By the end of The Stardust Thief, I felt that there were a lot of interesting characters and ideas all set up and ready for the series. Unfortunately, for most of the length of the book, I just didn't connect with it like I wanted. The three protagonists are all built around interesting thematic and conceptual premises, but I don't feel we gained a lot of detailed understanding of them. There are a lot of action scenes, which give a very adventurous feel, but it meant that a lot of the relationship stuff is brief or just backstory - I can't help but feel many of the most interesting things happened "offscreen". The embedded stories also didn't shine enough for me to enjoy them - I was hoping this kind of storytelling story would have a more distinctive sense of voice and style. As much as it didn't work for me, I'm very happy to see where the series goes, because it feels like a narrative that will find its feet now some of the major set-up is done.

Review to be posted on GR closer to publication

2.5/5

this was such an underwhelming read, i barely have anything to say about it.

everything about the stardust thief was simply serviceable. there was a plot, there were characters, there was a magical world - it was certainly a book! if an incredibly mediocre one. it lacked the complexity i've come to expect from adult fantasy - characters, plot, worldbuilding were all okay, nothing wrong with them exactly, but they were just too simplistic, predictable and surface-level for my taste. the characters felt so one-note and passive, like the plot was only happening to them instead of them doing anything significant to drive the action forward. the writing felt more geared towards a younger audience - again, very simple and bland.

the relationships were all pretty superficial and boring except for loulie and her jinn bodyguard qadir - their adopted child/parent bond was so genuine and sweet, it kept me from completely giving up on this book.

i wish so badly i could've loved the stardust thief as much as i loved its premise but it turned out to be too uninspired and forgettable for me, and i doubt i'll read the sequels. however, if you're a newbie fantasy reader looking for a light beginner adult fantasy, i'd recommend this! it's also heartening to see an arab adult fantasy by an arab author and i can only hope this is the gateway to better ownvoices arab fantasy books being published in the future.

The Stardust Thief is a story about stories, and for a debut novel it is nothing short of amazing.

For starters we have three povs, and they are all distinct from each other. The characters are all fully realised and none of them end the book as they begin it, they all go through some kind of change, some more drastically than others. I adored Mazen, the storytelling Prince. The kind hearted, non-violent Prince who is so well meaning, but also very hopeless. Luckily he has reluctant bodyguard Aisha, and the Midnight Merchant Loulie to help him. There's also a mysterious Jinn who I was curious about right from the beginning, he is one of the main draws that kept me reading and I was no disappointed in the answers we got about him.

Secondly we have the idea of relics. I love a good magic system and the way it worked in The Stardust Thief was fascinating. The use of relics to give humans magical abilities, and the Jinn with their elemental powers, it all made sense in the novel and I appreciated the way Abdullah explained it all. The way it all gets turned on its head later on as well, my mind was blown! It was such a good twist and I applaud Abdullah because I never saw it coming.

The Stardust Thief was an absolute joy to read, a fast-paced adventure ride that I loved absolutely every moment of. Now just to speed up time so I can get the sequel into my hands (especially after that cliffhanger!!) because I cannot wait to see what comes next for these beloved characters.

Many, many thanks to Orbit and Netgalley for allowing me to read this wonderful book ahead of publication in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book in one sitting.

For a fantasy book that rounds the 400 pages, that’s an incredible achievement on the author’s side.

This is also why the superb pacing absolutely made this book for me, and why I want to start off talking about that. Specifically, about how Abdullah’s mastery of tension across multiple POVs reminded me a lot of Stewart’s “The Bone Shard Daughter”, which I also read in one sitting. It’s a flex of a balance act to weave gradual tension into a secondary world narrative that spans across several personalities and multiple POVs, and Abdullah manages to do this with ease, hence why I read this book in literally one afternoon. Each chapter transition pulled me in so expertly.

In my opinion, balance is the keyword when it comes to creating the coveted “unputdownable” book—and Abdullah understands this, 100%.

The way that she creates tension also reminds me a lot of videogames. And I want to dwell on that for a bit. Firstly, the book is built around a quest narrative, meaning that the plot itself is reminiscent of many videogame plots. Secondly, there’s as much necessary exposition in this book as there is in any fantasy novel, yet Abdullah twists exposition into the plot in such a way that I felt like I was playing a videogame. One with various possible storylines splayed out in front of me, endlessly. I felt that anything and everything could happen, all the time, so I had to keep reading, you know? It felt like I kept leveling up, yeah?

This also applies to the worldbuilding. Specifically, the magic. The scope of the world and of the magic that governs the world constantly evolve on the page as the backstories of the characters are revealed and the history of the world is conveyed. It’s a bit like spoon-feeding. This means that we start out with a scope that feels narrow (but never lacking), and we end up with a scope that feels broad (but never overwhelming). Again, we have balance. On a knifepoint.

As for the theme of the book, Abdullah doesn’t beat around the bush.

This is a story about stories.

In particular, it’s about the way that stories empower those who take the time to listen to them.

It’s just like Mazen, our storyteller prince of the book, would say: “It’s in the details.”

Storytelling is how humans understand the world. How we understand power and the lack thereof. That’s what the “The Stardust Thief” is about. We have a group of people that become united by stories over the course of 400 pages. Their own stories. The stories of those they care about. Even the stories of the people that they don’t care about. There are no good or bad stories, Abdullah seems to tell us. And the power is not in the story itself, or even in the storyteller, but in the audience. That’s where stories have power; they empower.

A second theme that resonates strongly throughout the book is the theme that the dead are never truly gone. Rather, they live on in the stories we tell and the trinkets we keep. Abdullah takes this theme very literally, incorporating ghouls and resurrections into the plot, but she also keeps it emotional. For starters, each character suffers from the loss of family. Additionally, we have Loulie, our business-savvy merchant, whose character arc and transformation in large part revolves around the discovery that she’s been selling souls encapsulated inside relics for years, wrongly believing that these relics were nothing but trinkets. Not understanding that the magic inside of them was alive. That the magic was a soul.

Lastly, let me talk about voice.

As far as I am concerned, voice really boils down to the joy of storytelling. If the reader can feel that the writer truly enjoyed writing their book (even if it’s a sad book, yes), then the voice is there—and Abdullah has voice in spades. She has joy in spades. And it shows. And I personally can’t wait to see where her joy takes us next.

This book is really absorbing. I really felt like j was right in the middle of the story all the way through. I loved the character development and the plot building. It was really atmospheric and a great fantasy Nov. Loved it

On discovering an Arab american female write, writing about stories of djinns from the desert, I was intrigued to read The Stardust Thief.
An excerpt:
'Even through an orange veil of sand, the sun was bright enough she could make out the tiers of the great desert of Madinne. At the top was the sultan's palace made up of beautiful white domed towers and minarets that reached for the sun.
The Stardust thief is a YA novel based on 1001 night and is full of magic, djinns and heroines.. The characters are young, so this is a book that would suit youngsters and a Western audience.

Definitely a fun story, I found the worldbuilding really intriguing and it was fun learning about it. The characters were kinda simple in my opinion, and they felt a bit too childish for my taste sometimes. I also wanted deeper relationships between them so I could really care about what happened to them.

The plot was okay I would say, the plot twists weren't really all that surprising but it was still interesting enough to keep me reading.

Gripped from the first page.

A world of magic, gods and mortals. Everything I enjoy about a YA novel, good story-telling and strong characters.
Excited to know that this is the start of a trilogy and I will definitely continue with the journey through books 2 and 3.