The Last Starborn Seer is a fantastic story that is so much more than the sum of it's tropes.
Yes, it's a coming of age, found family quest with elemental magic, but if you think that means you've read this story before - think again!
We follow Leilani who needs to find an ancient relic to cure the world of the Sickening. She also needs the unity of the four feuding realms to do this. Thus starts an epic quest with characters I can not stop thinking about, magical beings I'm obsessed with and romances I adore.
I need book 2 already, and book 1 isn't even out yet!

Read this book, you won't regret it

I was lucky enough to receive this ARC and I am so glad I did. As soon as I saw the name, cover and blurb I needed to read this.

The Last Starborn Seer is a story of self discovery, found family and love. It is a dual POV book where we meet Leilani and Astrophel. I enjoyed their chapters a lot and liked them both individually. They are very different at the beginning of the book and it was a joy to see them develop over the course of the story.

The book also boasts an excellent cast of side characters who all have their own personalities that add to the story. I particularly liked Blayze and Tansy. The magical creatures that supported the human characters were also great. Briar, the sylvanmare, reminded me of Peter S. Beagle’s The Last Unicorn a lot!

The book was filled with magic and lore that I was obsessed with. At the beginning, there was a lot of world building down to the naming of the passage of time. Once I was familiar with this it only helped embed the flow of the story in me.

I absolutely adored this book and the world Constantine created. I can’t wait for the next one!

The Last Starborn Seer officially comes out in March 2026!

Thank you to NetGalley, publishers and Author for this Arc


Leilani is the last heir to a cursed bloodline, feared for her unstable Starborn magic that grants visions while slowly breaking her mind. Cast out by her own family and forced into an arranged marriage with her childhood rival, she believes her magic is even killing her mother.

When a prophecy hints at a relic that could end the deadly plague her ancestor unleashed just before the wedding Leilani escapes the court and embarks on a perilous journey to the Astral Mountain determined to reclaim her fate and prove she’s more than the monster they believe her to be.

The Last Starborn Seer is beautifully written with its rich world building and unique magic system. The lore is weaved so naturally into the book which just adds depth into the book.

Perfect for readers who love fantasy that feels alive, layered, and full of characters you genuinely want to follow.

The Last Starborn Seer is a wonderful mix of Epic Fantasy and Romantasy, with its lofty world building and political plot having a side of romance that's hard to look away from. This book hits all the must-haves for readers who love an immersive world with enough grit to sink your teeth into, and takes you on a journey of unique magic and political manoeuvrings to thoroughly get wrapped up in. While I struggled at first to become invested in the characters and their camaraderie, Constantine's writing is one I kept wanting to return to, and come the end the plot had me captured. A stunning debit of epic proportions, The Last Starborn Seer introduces readers to a rich world and grand journey that is bound to leave a lasting impression.

“She sees the future. But to save her world, she must survive the past.”

Venetia Constantine’s The Last Starborn Seer is a sweeping, emotionally resonant fantasy debut that blends high-stakes magic, political intrigue, and forbidden love into a story that feels both timeless and urgent. At its heart is Leilani Stellarion, a seer cursed with prophetic Starborn magic, burdened by visions she cannot control and a destiny she cannot escape.

As the Sickening - a plague born of ancient betrayal - ravages her realm, Leilani must journey across the Astral Mountains, confront the ghosts of her lineage, and navigate a court where loyalty is currency and love is a liability. Constantine’s prose is lush and lyrical, her world-building intricate without being overwhelming, and her characters heartbreakingly human.

This is fantasy that doesn’t just dazzle - it devastates. The romantic tension is palpable, the stakes are epic, and the emotional payoff is immense. Constantine writes with the confidence of a seasoned author and the soul of a poet.

Why @KlacksReads Recommends This:

- Leilani is a heroine for the ages - complex, courageous, and beautifully flawed.
- The world-building is immersive, with mythology that feels ancient yet fresh.
- It’s a romantasy that respects its readers - no clichés, just chemistry and consequence.
- Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Throne of Glass, and The Priory of the Orange Tree.

The Last Starborn Seer is a shimmering debut that proves epic fantasy can be both intimate and immense. It’s a story of fate, fire, and the fierce magic of choosing your own path, even when the stars say otherwise.

KlacksReads | London | 27 October 2025

When I say I screamed in excitement when I was accepted to read an eARC of this book, I’m not even exaggerating.

Thank you so much to Venetia Constantine, Aria Books, and NetGalley for the review copy!

In The Last Starborn Seer, we follow Leilani Stellarion - the last of an ancient bloodline whose Starborn magic gives her these haunting, prophetic visions that could easily destroy her. She’s the reluctant heir to a corrupted throne, stuck in a court full of secrets, politics, and betrayal. With an arranged marriage looming and danger closing in, she ends up on a quest that’s equal parts epic and terrifying, involving ancient relics, blood rites, uneasy alliances, and a darkness that’s always one step behind her.

This was a phenomenal book. From the first page I was completely immersed - the writing is so lyrical, and the world-building is simply breathtaking. The lore is so beautifully intricate that I could picture every scene vividly, like I was walking through the world myself.
It felt like a really unique approach to a magic system as well, with the political and social tensions woven into every aspect of the story, you truly understand each character’s motivations and their development.

The characters completely stole my heart. They’re so wonderfully flawed and real, making every emotion hit harder. The unreliable narration had me second-guessing everything (in the best way!), but it also gave such a deep insight into both the Leilani and Astrophel. I loved being inside their heads and seeing how differently they viewed the same moments - I was genuinely shouting at both of them at different points.
This is definitely more of an epic fantasy with a romance subplot, but the characters are so gorgeously written, so compelling, that even if you’re not usually an epic fantasy reader, you’re going to love this!!

And that ENDING… I was absolutely floored. My heart was in my throat and I still can’t stop thinking about it. I need the next book immediately!!

A stunning, emotional, and completely captivating read - easily one of my top books of 2025!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book. A 4 star rating from me. Loved the plot and the storytelling and relatable, likable characters. Loved every single second reading it.

“𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘷𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘮 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘪𝘭.”

“𝘠𝘦𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦. 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺’𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯.”


✨Tropes✨

- Dual Pov
- Diverse Found Family
- Fantastical Creatures
- Corruption Arc
- Ancient Prophesies/Evils
- Mental Health Rep
- High Stakes Quest
- Feuding Realms
- Cursed Elemental Magic
- Secondary World Fantasy
- Dying World


Wow, thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this arc, I’m quite anxious about what i choose on Netgalley but this was an epic romantasy read that I had been initially dragged In by the cover, as it reminded me so much of The Last Unicorn, which is a huge favourite for me, I also found the synopsis so alluring! It’s really different to most romantasys/epic fantasies, just purely because of the world and magic! Very otherworldly 😉

Now finishing this i’m so excited for the next book to come and to follow Leilani’s journey and seeing if bonds can be fixed! The writing was really stunning and I definitely got ethereal vibes from the whole magic system and just the world in this story overall. I’d like to say that the characters were written really well and especially the main character, it’s a nice change from someone else maybe doing something they shouldn’t and has definitely given Leilani more depth to her character (trying not to spoil 🫣). The journey itself with the challenges along the way were very entertaining to read and kept me gripped to the story! I really did get The Last Unicorn vibes completely and that made me so happy! and I LOVED the different types of guardians that was a really cool idea!

I already have this on preorder for a physical copy and I cannot wait to hopefully see it as a Special edition, because I will be buying it ASAP. This is expected to release March 5th (how perfect is that? Pisces season 🥰) 🖤

Leilani Stellarion is cursed, and this book lives in that ache from first page to last. As the last of the Sistertouched bloodline, Leilani’s volatile Starborn magic grants prophetic visions while slowly eating away at her mind, and the way Constantine explores that creeping corruption is the strongest part of the story. There’s a real sense of urgency and tragedy to Leilani’s arc — she’s hated and feared by her court, watching her mother waste away, and forced into an arranged marriage designed to strip her of the succession she’s been born into.

When a prophecy points to a relic that could end the Sickening — the curse that sank the four realms into war — Leilani grabs the one chance she has to change her fate. The journey to Astral Mountain and the ancient blood rite that follows make up the heart of the book: a perilous quest where fragile alliances must be forged, old rivalries are tested, and an unsettling, faceless spectre stalks them through the mountains. I loved the texture of the adventure, the sense of an old, mythic world under threat, and the way danger always feels immediate.

Romantically, the novel leans into slow burn tension. Leilani’s relationship with the rival envoy is quietly complicated — there’s chemistry, mutual distrust, and moments of real tenderness — all played out under the constant surveillance of her watchful fiancé and the court’s expectations. That love thread grows in a believable, restrained way and complements the darker emotional beats rather than distracting from them.

My favourite elements were the moral complexity and the focus on mental deterioration as a form of magic. Leilani’s prophetic gift is as much a curse as it is power, and Constantine handles that ambiguity with care. The spectre threat brings real menace, and the political manoeuvring at court adds satisfying layers of tension.

That said, the middle of the book did feel a touch slow at times. The quest sections are atmospheric but occasionally linger on world detail at the expense of forward momentum. A couple of side characters could have used deeper development, and I wanted a little more clarity about some of the Starborn rules earlier on. Those are small quibbles against a book that otherwise builds a haunting mood and compelling stakes.

Overall, The Last Starborn Seer is a thoughtful, atmospheric fantasy about fate, the cost of power, and the dangerous clarity of prophecy. It’s not flawless, but Leilani’s story is memorable and I’m very curious to see where Constantine takes her next.

A brilliant start to the series. I loved the female lead and the characters and chemistry between them. I found myself not wanting to put this book down and I was completely emersed.

For people who loved the magic of Tolkien and want strong women at the forefront who are unapologetically themselves, this is a beautiful debut set in an immersive land far away. This book is full of opalite sparkle alongside a realm ending plague and the secret evil within in a weaving epic fantasy that feels like home for lovers of LOTR and Heavenly Bodies.

Can’t wait to reread on publication! PS there’s a special edition at Waterstones to preorder✨

Thank you to Head of Zeus for an early ebook💜

Absolutely gorgeous writing, very reminiscent of When the Moon Hatched. The glossary at the start is brimming with useful details and I recommend taking time to read it before diving into the story.
A beautiful start to what will be a hugely successful series!

*thanks very much to netgalley and aria & aries / head of zeus for providing this e-arc, and thanks to the author Venetia Constantine for this story! this is my completely honest review*

5⭐️

the last starborn seer end up becoming my 1st and one and only 5⭐️ read this year (out of the ~40 fantasy books i read this year)!!!! 💕💕💕

the world is incredibly ethereal and beautifully written, with lyrical prose that feels really smooth and immersive 🌙✨
the world is quite big in scope, so the story started a bit slow in the beginning due to the world building; there’s a section before the story that explains the main terminology, and i actually found it very helpful 🫶reading that first made the opening chapters much easier to follow. once the plot really begins, the story becomes super engaging and easy to stay hooked 🫶

the story uses first-person multi pov, mainly from fmc leilani and mmc astrophel (he is one of the mmc / leilani’s love interests) 💛
i really liked seeing how the same events could feel completely different to each of them. it added depth and I as the reader get to live through leilani and astrophel’s emotional journey, which made their emotional reactions feel very grounded, and i connected to both of the characters deeply💭

there’s a love triangle going on, and the romance is done really well without taking over or overwhelming the book 💌
all of the characters involved are flawed, morally grey, and very multi-dimensional. nothing feels flat or simple, and their relationships really feel very layered and complex and realistic in a way that makes perfect sense for the story 💫

i think the character development is my fav part of this book 🥰🥰 leilani’s character development is very clear and strong, but the other main characters also change meaningfully throughout the book ❤️
it felt satisfying to watch them evolve, especially during the quest part of the story, which I really really enjoyed 💕💕

the ending is def unexpected and has a cool plot twist!! i think it sets up the rest of the planned trilogy really strongly, and i’m genuinely so intrigued to see where the story goes next!!! 😳📚

overall, the world is intriguing, the characters’ quest/journey is bery fun to follow, the romance is so well done, and the plot/pacing is also well-structured 🫶🫶 this was truly a standout read for me this year and the best book i’ve read this year (this being my one and only 5⭐️ read, now you know how much i love it!!! 💕💕✨✨)
it’s just so beautifully written with very interesting characters and engaging plot!! 🧚🏻✨

this book is coming out in march 2026 (i read the e-arc this month - in december 2025), and i highly highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys romantic high fantasy with emotional depth and a strong sense of adventure!!! ❤️❤️

This book gave me exactly what I was hoping for. It has that rich magical atmosphere with a story that slowly pulls you in until you realise you’ve been completely swept up in it. It felt like a true fantasy escape with just the right amount of emotional tension.

Leilani is such an interesting main character. She’s not your typical chosen one. She feels flawed and unsure of herself and that actually made me like her more. Her powers come with a cost and watching her navigate that while everyone seems to either fear her or expect things from her added real depth to the story.

The worldbuilding is one of the biggest highlights for me. It felt detailed and vivid without being confusing. You get magic systems, political tension, prophecy vibes and even a bit of folklore woven through. It felt like the kind of place you could get lost in for a while.

And yes there is a love triangle but it actually worked for me. It did not feel forced or cringey. It added emotional layers to Leilani’s journey and the romantic tension had that mix of sweet and complicated that I enjoy in fantasy. Nothing felt too predictable and that made it more satisfying to read.

Overall it has everything I love in a romantic fantasy. Strong heroine with real struggles. A sweeping quest. Real stakes. Soft moments between chaos. If you enjoy character driven stories with magic and heart this one is worth putting on your radar.


*thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

When I tell you I had such high hopes for this book and Venetia Constantine absolutely smashed it!!

If you had sparkles mixed with the Tolkien-esque exploration of how power can corrupt, you’d get The Last Starborn Seer! Leilani is a complex and wonderfully written character and I could understand her and her decisions throughout the course of the story.

Each character arc was woven together, with each a unique thread that made the larger tapestry more detailed and beautiful! I really enjoyed Astrophel’s and Blayze’s characters and how they both put up a front and try to outdo each other - I’m sure they’d both hate me comparing them in parallel!

I am thrilled that this the first of a fantasy book trilogy and I truly can’t wait for the rest of the journey with Leilani and the Quaternity!!

Oh I loved this so much.

The Last Starborn Seer is a beautifully-written and highly immersive blend of high fantasy and romantasy, with a fresh premise centred around Leilani, the last surviving member of an ancient bloodline and heir to her father’s throne, as she embarks on a quest to recover a lost relic that she hopes will end the curse that has plagued her, and spiralled her realms into war and ruin.

I’m really looking forward to seeing where the rest of this trilogy goes. This is a beautiful world with captivating and well-fleshed out characters, and I just couldn’t stop turning the pages. I was so engrossed in Leilani’s journey of self-discovery and how she developed through the story, as well as the actual physical journey itself, and I’m absolutely foaming at the mouth for the second book.

I was very kindly sent an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review and I’m very grateful for the opportunity. This was wonderful!

4.5⭐
The Last Starborn Seer is one of those books that as soon as you start you completely forget that you are reading, it is very heavy on worldbuilding and lore so it is definitely a book that you need to take your time with to fully understand but once you do it makes the reading experience so much more fulfilling as the author weaves together a beautiful story from straight the start.

The descriptions, the vivid imagery are so vibrant and intense and so breathtaking that makes it all so easy to visualise while reading and it is down to just how stunning the authors writing is and the storytelling that has been created, you can truly tell the time and dedication that has been taken in creating this intriguing and immersive story of a cursed princess and even more so when it comes to the interesting magic system and how unique and complex it is. There is a love triangle that slowly develops but it is done in such a good way that really works especially as I feel it is more of a subplot to the overall story that makes it more impactful as the world and everything about bout it is so beautifully planned out.

The main characters growth from start to finish is phenomenal and there are so many wonderful side characters that makes the found family aspect of the story even better as they are all so important to the story in their own way even the animal companions who I absolutely adored. There were so many moments and plot points that I wasn't expecting, some even made me tear up and the ending has me excited for book two. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough it is truly amazing and such a beautiful story.

Thank you so much to the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review before publication. All opinions are my own.

Leilani Stellarion, the last of a cursed bloodline, born with volatile Starborn magic that gives her prophetic visions while slowly eroding her mind. Feared by her court, trapped in political maneuvering, and pushed toward an arranged marriage designed to strip her power, Leilani is running out of time.

A prophecy reveals a relic that could end the plague destroying the realms, and Leilani seizes her only chance at freedom. Her journey to Astral Mountain unravels into an epic quest filled with ancient rites, uneasy alliances, court secrecy, and a faceless evil stalking her every step. The world is lush, dangerous, and deeply mythic and Leilani’s unraveling mind sits at the heart of it.

Tropes and vibes in this lush world:
✴️ Epic-fanta-mance (epic fantasy somewhat romantasy)
🌌 Ancient prophecy a d cursed magic
👑 Reluctant heir
🗡️ Mythic quest
🔥 Slow burn tension
🌫️ Love Triangle
✨Mental deterioration as magic
🧭 Found family alliances
🪷 Tolkien-coded landscapes

This world hooks you instantly with its scale and atmosphere, but it’s the magic that steals the show! The prophecy, corruption, and Leilani slowly losing herself in ways that are equal parts haunting and heartbreaking.

Not everything lands perfectly: the middle stretch lingers a little too long in detail, a few side characters could have been sharpened, and the worldbuilding occasionally outpaces the plot. But the emotional beats hit hard, the tension is high, and the ending is the kind that makes you sit up, blink twice, and mourn that book two isn’t already in your hands.

If you want an epic that blends prophecy, politics, slow burn yearning, and a world dripping in lore, this is it. A stunning debut that feels both classic and new.

I do think you need to be emotionally prepared for the world building and not think this is like every other romantasy. This leans a LOT more to epic in how the lore and world building is done, which was fantastic for me but doesn’t make for an ‘easy’ read.

Braincells required: 🧠🧠🧠🧠/5
Read if you like: When The Moon Hatched, Heavenly Bodies, Tolkien-esque worlds.
Highlight: UNIQUE and I loved the mental health rep.

This was a book I’d been eagerly anticipating, so I was thrilled when NetGalley approved my request for an advanced copy. Now for the important bit: I wasn’t disappointed (which, let’s be honest, can sometimes happen when there’s a lot of hype surrounding a new release).
From the opening, with the origins of the Cradle World, I was completely enraptured. It instantly reminded me of Tolkien’s The Silmarillion, beautifully crafted with an expert weaving of nostalgia and something fresh. It had me excited for what was to come.
I was dropped straight into Leilani’s world. From the very beginning, the stakes are high and the atmosphere tense, with a vivid, fully realised setting. The writing pulled me in as the story unfolded. Like Tolkien, there’s a band of unlikely ‘brothers’ brought together on a quest, but this is far from a retelling. It feels distinct and unlike anything I’ve read before, while still carrying that sense of nostalgia (an oxymoron, I know). The world is beautiful and sparkling, and at times brutal, and the writing brings it vividly to life.
As a longtime fan of The Last Unicorn, the themes in this story really spoke to me, particularly the exploration of destiny, loss, and what it means to be human. I loved the powerful magic that comes with a real cost. For fans of the love-triangle trope, there’s something here for you (and I know exactly who I want Leilani to choose; I’m a sucker for the misunderstood).
It isn’t just the worldbuilding that shines. The characters are complex and vivid, and now I have to wait for the next instalment. Oh man.
This debut is due for release in just a few months, and I already know I’ll be getting myself a physical copy to start what will inevitably become a growing collection as the series continues. I’m very much looking forward to a re-read before the next book arrives.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced copy.

An excellent debut novel. Thank you to the publisher and net galley for the ARC copy.

I wasn’t sure about this book as I started out but around 20% I found myself hooked.

The world building in this book is fantastic, the animals, the different races and the lore which goes with it has me truly enthralled.

The writing itself was done well and no real complaints.

I particularly liked the group quest made up of members from opposing races. It does lend itself to the Lord of the rings type quest. I enjoyed most of the characters but I’m not 100% sold on the FMC. I can’t really follow how she ended up in the love triangle so fast after such little interaction. I do however adore the guardians! I hope we see language return to all the animals!

The plot itself (love triangle gripe aside) was good, well executed and the twists at the end were interesting.

I have pre ordered now and look forward to book 2 to see what happened next!

Okay, this was INCREDIBLE.
I had so so much fun reading this and am already looking forward to a reread down the line!

The world building and lore was so rich, the magic system had me captivated, all the characters had me hooked, I love an unexpected group forming a bond (hello Fellowship).
The growth in all of these characters, especially our main 3 was really enjoyable to witness as the book progressed, some questionable choices were made but growth was significant.

Venetia poured her everything into this book and it shows, I can't wait for the sequel!

I’ve got to start by talking about the author’s writing style—it's so immersive! Parts of it feel like an epic fantasy, but with those romantic fantasy vibes I’m totally into. The world-building was beautiful, and it felt so real.

I also really loved the character dynamics. Astrophel, Leilani, and Blayze each bring something different to the story, and I was all in for the slow-burn romance between them.

The Last Starborn Seer does an awesome job mixing themes of heritage, power, and personal growth, all while Leilani’s on her mission to find a lost relic. I was super invested in the plot and can’t wait to see what happens next!

The Last Starborn Seer by Venetia Constantine 💜
Publishing March 2026!

Meeting Venetia on bookstagram a few years ago meant that I had some vague notions of what TLSS might be but I don't think i was quite prepared for what turned out to be a compelling, and richly imagined world, an engaging quest, and a magic system that feels original and full of potential.

Leilani is an intriguing MC. She has such internal conflict, in possession of a magic she doesn't understand and a fear of the darkness within herself. Theres definite growth by the end of the book but i wish we got to linger in her emotional moments a bit more. She often feels distant or guarded, even with herself, so I didn't feel as emotionally connected to her as I wanted to be. I did however find myself quite invested in Astrophel though, his emotional moments lingered a little longer than Leilani's. Both POVs had such distinctive voices - one cool and guarded the other emotional and sometimes brash, super interesting contrasting voices!

Overall, this is a strong and imaginative start to a series with a fascinating world, an engaging quest, and a magic system I genuinely want to learn more about. The story and the world have such promise I’m very curious to see where book two takes these characters and this world!

Thanks for the ARC!

The Last Starborn Seer is full of rich world building, interesting character dynamics and a magic system that instantly grabbed my attention. I thought the history behind Leilani’s (our fmc) magic was engaging and really helped me to immerse myself in our characters quest to find the sceptre, which has the potential to change her fate.

You can tell a lot of thought and attention to detail was put into the magic system and the history behind it, and how it all intertwines with all the other lands and the politics between them. The writing is beautifully descriptive which I always love as it helps me to picture what I am reading, even down to how the characters look. I thought it flowed nicely and I was able to understand what was happening and why, and I liked that the story showed depth with the history behind Leilanis bloodline and her Starborn magic.

We have multiple POVs which I enjoy as I like to see other characters perspectives in situations and it helps to understand exactly how they are feeling. It made for interesting character dynamics as I was trying to guess how feelings etc would change throughout the book as they dealt with situations on their quest.

If you want a captivating, rich world and magical system, plenty of action and characters that keep you engaged (as well as multiple POVs which I love in a book!) then add this one onto your TBR and keep an eye out for when it releases in March 2026!

Thank you to the publisher Head of Zeus for the arc.

As soon as I heard the blurb for this book – I knew I had to try and request an ARC copy (thank you Head of Zeus for accepting my request).

The story follows Leilani Stellarion, who is despised by her father and his wider court, for the dangerous Starborn magic she possesses as she matures. She lives in a fractured, dying world where its peoples and magical creatures were nearly wiped out by a magical plague, so they are rightly wary of magic-users. Leilani's own mother is dying of the sickening, so when Leilani learns of way to save her, she recruits a band of representatives from opposing nations to agree to embark on a quest with her to save the world. This isn't an easy task in itself, as the Outlanders are suspicious of her and each other, and despite the latent attraction between her and one of the representatives – Blayze Arcuri – the magical prejudice in this realm is strong. Plus, the fact that Leilani is unwillingly betrothed to Astrophel, a rather pompous courtier who will stop at nothing to please her father so that he can rise through the ranks, she really has her work cut out for her.

The novel is written in 1st person narrative style and in present tense, which gives the prose an intimate immediacy which I really enjoyed. Constantine's style is poetic and rich in intricate world-building, which creates an 80's nostalgia aesthetic reminiscent of films like The Last Unicorn, The Neverending Story and Labyrinth - but entirely adult in tone. The environmental themes and magical prejudice resonate with me and I think Constantine really sets up the potential for the rest of series evolving really well.

Leilani is a complex character who is full of self-loathing and has suffered and is only beginning to find her true self and find self-acceptance, as she comes into her powers, but she's aware of everything that's at stake, should she not succeed in her task, so she's someone we can definitely root for. And Astrophel, the second lesser POV, who at first seems so up-himself that I started to think he was the real villain of the story, is someone who definitely grew on me. No spoilers but his pain and suffering really shows his humanity, so even though his POV is minor – I really enjoyed reading his chapters.

I think the fact that the objectives of the secondary characters don't always align means that this is not the jovial camaraderie we see in Tolkien, but something infinitely more complicated and it creates suspense and tension throughout the novel.

This is not a romantasy, but it is an epic fantasy with romance. There's slow burn and heat, plus the beginnings of a very messy love triangle (or quadrangle depending on which way you look at it). This is the kind of fantasy I love, because even though the romance is subplot, I felt invested in the stakes of the fantasy plot and satisfied with the quest elements, so I think this will have a broad appeal for SFF readers in general.

The quest plot itself was full of foreboding and no spoilers but it didn't end as I expected at all, which has really left me pondering – in a good way – in the days since I finished reading it. Constantine has created a complex world and so the plot itself is complicated and there's a lot of unresolved mystery at the end of the novel which compels you to want to read more in the series. I personally can't wait for book two and I'm very much looking forward to rereading this one, with the audiobook when the novel comes out.

Iconic. Think Lord of the Rings for epic fantasy girlies with a sprinkle of romance and yearning. Absolutely obsessed and could not put this down.

The world building is absolutely incredible and it is such a descriptive world that Venetia has put so much love and thought into for the reader experience. You devour the story as if you are there in their realm.

The characters have depth and complexity to them which adds to this magnificent world we are taken into where their world is dying and everyone is suffering. We have a dual POV which is my favourite in fantasy books. We see Leilani Stellarion, who is a princess born with magic that comes with a tainted past and disliked from the people of her world from those who walked before her with the same branding and magic, and Astrophel, who is a boy bought up in the kingdom and is Leilani’s chosen husband by her father, the king. His character grew on me slowly… very slowly! But we have to wait and see what happens with their relationship and if they are to be married.

Leilani is a fragile and unstable character from being shunned her whole life and being made to fear her magic. But we see her grow and go on a journey with her magic as she goes on a quest to find a cure for her dying mother.

There’s characters from different lands who are deemed as enemies, who are with Leilani and Astrophel on their quest, and we see a love triangle form whilst friendships build with further understanding and empathy as Leilani learns the truths of her world and starts to see them as her friends who she cares for.

I was completely obsessed and couldn’t put this down. I devoured this beautifully written story that Venetia has created. Every chapter had twists, secrets and new revelations. I was hooked. The world will shine brighter now this story has entered the fantasy book world.

This was a solid epic fantasy and definitely on the heavier side, but in a way I really enjoyed. The worldbuilding is super detailed and adds a lot to the story without feeling pointless or overwhelming. There is a romance subplot, which was nice, but it never took over and stayed very much in the background.

I also had the privilege of experiencing this both as a physical read as well as being able to listen to it on audiobook, and honestly, both were great. The dual narrators were spot on and really brought the story to life, which made it even easier to stay immersed in the world and the characters.

I really liked Constantine’s writing style. It flowed well, the pacing worked for me, and the characters actually felt like they grew as the story went on. Leilani is a great main character, and I stayed invested in her journey the whole way through.

There’s a lot going on here: politics, magic, prophecies, travel, and trials, but it all felt purposeful. If you’re into epic fantasy that takes you on an adventure and doesn’t shy away from complexity, this one’s worth checking out.

An enjoyable story with an intriguing mythology and lore behind it. The FMC lives a lonely, isolated life and we quickly find ourselves rooting for her to escape her tyrant father..

Once the action eventually gets going, it's a much easier read as you get more invested in the outcome of their mission. However, the only downside was that is took way too long to get to the action. I felt like the first 50% were all exposition, more, world building etc. I love world building info but find that it needs to be balanced with moments of action or else it's a struggle to want to pick it back up.

This is easily one of my favorite books of 2026 and we are only in January. I would give this six stars if I could.

Set in the world of Arcelia, we follow Leilani Stellarion as she journeys to the Astral Mountain with newly forged alliances to ancient enemies to receive the lost Sceptre that will save her mother’s life.
This has absolutely everything I adore in a fantasy book. An epic quest, a unique magic system, a fully detailed world with lots of exposition, and unique, loveable characters.
The Last Starborn Seer was such a refreshing take on a quest fantasy, with classical old- school elements and its own unique whimsy.
Leilani is the perfect heroine for this kind of story. Soft and sheltered and yearning for freedom, she proves there is strength in perseverance and healing. Alongside Leilani, we get introduced to a great cast of characters including Astrophel- Leilani’s betrothed- and Blayze, Clanschief of the Fire Clans of Oralia, and Leilani’s mortal enemy.
It’s been a long time since I was this obsessed with a book and its characters. I was in love with the animal companions: Serafine and Briar. They really added a lot to the story.
The way the relationships develop between the characters are uneasy at first, but then they tug at your heart and don’t let go.
Filled with gorgeous descriptions and writing throughout, this is a book you want to live in.
So much action in the second half and plenty of moments that will have you screaming. A slow burn love triangle that makes this completely unputdownable.
This is a story that has been many years in the making and you can absolutely tell how much thought and passion has been put in to it.
A new staple in fantasy fiction for sure.

This was a fabulous start to a trilogy. The world building was incredible. I felt like I was in the world of Arcelia through the descriptions Venetia wrote. I felt invested right from the get go. I’m a sucker for a magical quest. I also adored the different creatures created within this story. I think my favourite were the craggstalkers but I loved all the guardians that our quartet all had. Such an incredible imagination Venetia has.

It was full of twists and turns, some that were unexpected, which I was pleasantly surprised by. I like it when I don’t guess things.

We’ve got a love triangle in this story and I am so here for it. I don’t know who I want to succeed more. The tension is palpable and I have no idea who they will pick in the end. Or even if they will be the one to make that decision.

The ending felt like a pretty big cliffhanger and I am slightly peeved that I’ve got to wait a while for the next book. But that’s also one of the reasons this book is so good!

4.25 Stars

The last Starborn seer is an epic Romantasy that follows Leilani Princess and the final Starborn seer and branded as she goes on an epic journey to save the realm and her mother from the sickening that has been killing their realm for 800 years. Together she takes the perilous journey with Astrophel her reluctant betroved, Blayze the clanchief for the fire people who she feels an instant connection to (love triangleeee), Maris and Delphine waterfolk, and my personal fave Tansy from the woodland folk. Along with their very cute companions and guardians they face various challenges on their quest all while haunted by the ghost of Arden who released the sickening in the first place.

I really enjoyed this book! It was beautifully written and the world building was amazing. I was sucked in from the beginning. The book handles some pretty heavy topics very well- check the trigger warnings please. The ending low-key broke me Venetia my therapy bills are incoming. Can't wait for the next one!

💜 This was a very highly anticipated read for me so, I was nervous after much eagerness. I need'nt have been worried, the moment I entered into Venetias world, I left mine and was transported into her vivid and ethereal imaginings. 💜

💎 It was a joy to feel like I was waking in the characters shoes, experiencing their highs and lows. I felt like all of my senses were heightened through the perfect descriptions so I was fully able to empathise with their journeys.💎

🗻 I really enjoyed getting to know Arcelia and it's rich history. This book may have a world that is all beauty and grace on the surface but very quickly, I realised it also has beautifully complex characters full of flaws, grit and all with their own intriguing story to tell. Their backgrounds slowly start to come to light making you realise that where their actions may lead you to certain conclusions, there is so much more driving them. I adored exploring the ever changing relationships between the main characters and seeing them grow against all odds after being forced into many an uncomfortable revelation and situation. 🗻

🗡️ Venetias prose is nothing short of GORGEOUS. Knowing that she has Art and English in her past is very apparent in her world building. I felt the cold the characters were feeling, I marvelled at the beauty that they did, I felt their despair and all of the other feels. 🗡️

💜🩶 I always adore a dual POV and this book is the perfect example of it done well. You're really seeing two very different sides of the same story. It was easy to see how the Leilani and Astrophel draw the wrong conclusions and also, interesting to get the internal thoughts of each to see the truth of it from their eyes 🩶💜

🔮 Overall I came out of this book mourning the end when it felt like just the beginning despite all that happened on this epic adventure. The cliffhangers and unanswered questions! I shall be dropping everything as soon as I am able to get my mitts on book 2! I've no idea how it's going to go and while I feel safe in Venetias hands on this journey, I simultaneously know she is willing to rip my heart out 😂🔮

✨ Thank you so much Venetia for having me as a part of Team Stardust and Thank you Head of Zeus for the ARC ✨

This is very much a fantasy-led story, built around prophecy, political tension, and a classic quest structure rather than romance.

At its core, this is a journey narrative. Leilani’s escape from court and perilous trek toward the Astral Mountain drives the plot, giving the story a strong sense of momentum and purpose. In its structure and scope, the story is reminiscent of a The Lord of the Rings–style adventure, with divided realms, perilous quests, and a sense of history weighing heavily on the present, but reimagined through a more celestial lens, with star-born magic and cosmic prophecy at its heart.

The Starborn magic is volatile and invasive, and I appreciated that her power feels like a curse she’s constantly negotiating with, rather than something she can easily control. The slow mental corrosion adds genuine stakes to every choice she makes.

The worldbuilding is layered and deliberate, with rich lore surrounding the Sickening, the Sistertouched, and the fractured realms of Arcelia. Political maneuvering, uneasy alliances, and inherited rivalries shape the journey, and while the pacing slows slightly in the middle, it’s doing important groundwork, deepening the mythology and clearly setting up future books in the series.

I didn’t always agree with the characters’ choices, but it felt honest and in keeping with the story. Romance exists, but it’s a secondary thread: restrained, tension-filled, and never allowed to overtake the quest or the wider stakes. This will suit readers looking for epic fantasy with emotional undercurrents rather than a romance-forward plot or spice-heavy romantasy.

Overall, The Last Starborn Seer is a confident debut that lays solid foundations for what feels like a much larger series. If you enjoy prophecy-driven fantasy, dangerous magic, and quest-based storytelling with political weight — especially with a strong celestial edge — this is well worth picking up. Four and a half stars from me - rounded up to 5, and I’ll definitely be continuing the series to see what happens next.

Thank you to Aria & Ares, NetGalley, and the author for the eARC.

Thank you to Netgallery and Venetia Constantine for an eARC and audiobook ARC of The Last Starborn Seer in exchange for my honest review.

The perfect blend of high fantasy and subtle romantasy, this book is packed with rich world building, an intriguing magic system and powerful character dynamics, allowing me to become fully immersed into this world.

The slower pacing of this book will appeal to those who prioritise, and love, strong world building. Think Lord of the Rings but with lots more sparkle.

The writing was so beautifully descriptive. Complementing this by reading alongside the audiobook made the world really come to life for me and I was pulled right in, unable to put it down.

It’s obvious a lot of work and thought has gone into the background of each character and the depth of the story as a whole, and I feel this is only a small glimpse of what is to come as the series evolves further.

Multiple POVs, love triangle (without it being too much), an epic quest and magic with consequences. I can’t wait to get my hands on my pre order copy!

Also… that ending!! I read it three times, leaving me inpatient for book two (and this one hasn’t even been released yet).

“I know I am asking you to take a leap of faith, to place yourself in danger, but you have more within you, Leilani, than you realise. Be brave. Shine bright.”

Leilani Stellarion must bring representatives from each realm on a quest to help save her mother, and their world.

Leilani is not the typical romantasy heroine, and for that I’m glad. Her judgement is clouded by her own anxieties and self-hatred, she’s indecisive and at war with herself. She isn’t even always a reliable narrator. Through this story, her sheltered world opens up, as she meets new people, and learns new things about herself.

TLSS feels more epic and high fantasy than a lot of what I’ve read lately, with an expansive world, and plenty of lore to get stuck into. It still has a strong romance plot, which I got completely invested in, but it definitely sets itself apart from other romantasy reads.

The romance is technically a love triangle, but it’s more nuanced than “who will she pick”, with complex characters all round. I was either rooting for, or angry at, different characters at different points.

The strong personal journey at the centre, along with the world-building, helped this feel like a healthy mix of high fantasy and romance.

There are two POVs in this book: Leilani and Astrophel.

Their betrothal has been planned by Leilani’s father, the king,and while it would benefit Astrophel, Leilani is desperate to escape the arranged marriage.

Astrophel’s POV was ESSENTIAL, and I’m not just saying that because I have a huge soft spot for him. There’s an extra dimension added to the story when we get to see it through Astrophel’s eyes. Sometimes, that extra dimension might break your heart a little. Or maybe you’ll hate him? I honestly don’t know, but his chapters were such an important part of the story.

One big theme in this is heritage, birthright, power. Is it a curse or a gift? Can it be both? In my experience, fantasy is a great genre for exploring themes like this, and it’s done really beautifully here. Shame and duty, blood vs. found family, destiny vs. free will.

Outside of the character development, the setting is incredibly vivid and immersive. I love when a book fully drops you into a world the way this one does. The way the world-building unfurls through the story works well, without the info-dumping that can come with books like this. It really does feel like a nostalgic fantasy setting; sparkling, beautiful, but dangerous.

Just like the main character, whose appearance sounds like that of an otherworldly, ethereal princess, but who holds darkness within, either in her past or in her mind.

Great fantasy book! Really detailed world building and looking forward to the series continuing!

I really enjoyed the 2 POV and am excited to see who the author will bring to the story in the next book! This is very much not a romantasy, deffo a fantasy with sub plot or romance!

The magical creatures were my favourite and I enjoyed the travelling and adventure scenes.

The Last Starborn Seer is the highest of high fantasy with magical creatures and a perilous quest, this is one for the lovers of intricate worldbuilding and epic fantasy!

Following Leilani Stellarion, the last Starborn Seer, born with a curse and scorned by her kingdom, her usefulness is limited to the marriage of convenience that's arranged for her. That is, until she finds a way to escape her forced marriage and save her dying mother's life. Joined by a member of each of the realms of Astelia, and the man she hates - her betrothed, Leilani sets out on a perilous quest to save her mother and the future of Astelia itself.

Constantine has crafted a world that shines brightly, with glittering prose and complex characters. I loved the epic worldbuilding and characterisation - each of the members of the quaternity are well fleshed-out with their own personalities and motivations. There is a love triangle, betrayal and a looming sense of dread throughout as Leilani's own magic poses a threat to her and all the members of the quaternity. My only dislike was I found Leilani to be quite unlikeable by the end of the book but I think that was a deliberate choice by the author and I look forward to seeing how her character develops in the next book!

Tropes -
Love triangle
Chosen one
Forced proximity
Perilous quest

4.5 stars rounded up to 5

I really enjoyed this and I really enjoyed the narration. I think it’s so important to have a good narrator when it comes to audiobooks and this did and it really made the book so much better

I absolutely adored this.
I loved the complexity of the characters. How they weren’t inherently good or bad but perfectly flawed. You feel like you go on a journey with them through their mistakes, weaknesses and ever changing identities. The ending had me gasping. I NEED answers and the next book ASAP.

I would like to thank the author and publisher for providing me with a digital copy of The Last Starborn Seer via NetGalley to review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

From the beginning, the premise of this story felt very unique and unlike any of my previous reads. We meet Leilani who is cursed and branded, blamed for a sickness that has claimed many in the realm of Arcelia. Mistreated by her father, the King, who holds her at fault for many miscarriages her mother has suffered as well as her mother's terminal illness. At every opportunity, her father tries to poison the minds of others against Leilani, including her betrothed, Astrophel. A person of illegitimate birth, Astrophel sees his binding to Leilani as an opportunity to increase his power and improve his station. Blind to the King's lies and twisted tales about Leilani, Astrophel often treats her poorly and appears to see her as his right and a means to an end.

When she receives a prophecy that can end the sickening and heal her mother, Leilani unites rival realms to journey for an essential relic. Journeys through treacherous settings and encounters with evil rulers follow. During the course of their journey, Leilani blossoms as a character and finds her strength and her voice. It's a journey of self-discovery and embracing her powers, which have always brought her shame. My only wish for her is that she could have communicated better and more openly with Astrophel, Blayze and the other characters, but I can also see their necessity for the plot. As with any character, Leilani has her flaws and is still learning how to open up with those around her.

I really enjoyed the growth and arc of Astrophel, who starts as a selfish, infuriating and entitled fool. As the story progresses and the King's manipulations are undone, we see more of his kindness and care for Leilani which really changed my opinion of him. A special mention for Blayze also, whose sarcastic and strong character was one I loved. There were many facets to his personality and emotions to be discovered which I enjoyed as I learned more about him and elements of his past.

Venetia has a very pleasant and immersive writing style. There were times where I felt like I was on the journey with the characters. She did wonderfully in forging the bonds between them throughout the chapters and the pacing was spot on for me. There were many chapters which felt high stakes that I enjoyed, with slower paces between to develop the relationships and personalities of the characters. I'd most definitely purchase a copy of this book for my collection and I'm praying that book 2 is released soon!

I ended up really enjoying The Last Starborn Seer. It is a very rich, immersive fantasy that leans heavily into epic worldbuilding while still weaving in romance, character drama, and emotional stakes. It definitely feels like the start of a big, ambitious series, and by the end I was fully invested in the world and where the story is heading.

The standout element for me was the worldbuilding. There is so much history, lore, magic, and political tension layered throughout the story, and it genuinely felt detailed and thoughtfully constructed. The different realms, magical systems, and mythology all added depth and made the world feel alive. It is the kind of book that takes a little time to settle into, but once everything starts to click, it becomes really engaging.

I also really liked the character dynamics, especially seeing things unfold through multiple perspectives. Leilani’s journey was interesting to follow, particularly her struggles with her magic, identity, and the expectations placed on her. I enjoyed watching her grow and make difficult choices, even when I did not always agree with them. The romance elements worked well for me too. The slow burn tension and complicated relationships added emotional weight without completely taking over the main fantasy plot.

The writing style is very descriptive and lyrical, which helped create a strong atmosphere. Some scenes were genuinely beautiful and very easy to picture. You can really tell how much care went into crafting this world and story.

That said, the book does have a slower pace, especially in the first half, and there were moments where the amount of lore and terminology felt slightly overwhelming. It also took me a little while to fully connect with some of the characters, and I think a few side characters could have been explored a bit more. Once the main plot gained momentum though, I found myself much more emotionally invested.

Overall, this is a strong and memorable debut that blends epic fantasy with romantic elements really well. It is perfect for readers who enjoy detailed worldbuilding, morally grey characters, and slow burn relationship development. I am definitely curious to see how the story continues in the next book.

Rating: 4.25⭐️


The Last Starborn Seer is such a fascinating book, with an enchanting worldbuilding and a well fleshed out heroine.
The worldbuilding might seem confusing at first given the multiple nations, creatures and characters but once you get used to that, you start really appreciating how elaborate it is!

As for the characters, i appreciated Leilani and Astrophel’s growth throughout the story! I didn’t particularly like them at the beginning (especialli Astrophel) but i ended up loving reading their thoughts and supporting their actions (especially towards the end👀!).

They’re definitely two flawed characters who are trying to cope with the difficult hand life has dealt them. I also really liked Tansy and Briar!

The ending was very interesting and it definitely makes me want to pick up book 2 as soon as it comes out.

In spite of this, some parts of the book (especially towards the half of it) were excessively slow in my opinion and i didn’t really like Blayze.😅 I found him to be a bit stereotyped and I couldn’t relate to him (his relationship with Seraphine was cute though).


Thanks so much to the publisher Head of Zeus and netgalley for a free earc, all opinions are my own!

4⭐️

Firstly this cover is absolutely gorgeous!! This book blended high political fantasy with romance really well. At times I was a bit lost in the world building but the world this author built was great and I was so intrigued. The writing was very immersive so I’m excited to pick up more books! I thought the book was well paced and I really enjoyed the plot. The characters had great depth to them and honestly felt very real.

The Last Starborn Seer Review 💫🌌🔮

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

The Last Starborn Seer is a well written romantasy set in a richly detailed and unique high fantasy world. The worldbuilding is immersive and layered, with distinct nations, history, and magic that feel fully realized and thoughtfully crafted.

Leilani is the last of the Starborn and the only living Branded. She carries the weight of her magic, her legacy, and her grief as a deadly sickness spreads throughout the country, claiming the lives of countless civilians, including her own mother who is slowly dying. The four nations have remained divided ever since the Sickening was unleashed by Arden (Flame), leaving the world fractured and distrustful. Through a letter left behind by her ancestor Noelani, Leilani learns that her fate is tied to the Starlight Staff, a powerful artifact capable of granting a single wish. To reach it she must complete a blood rite with four from each nation.

After summoning them and convincing them that this journey is necessary, the Nine is formed. What follows is an intense and emotional adventure filled with dangerous mountain climbs, brutal encounters with Frostfangs, and moments of found family that add warmth to the story. The relationships that develop along the way add depth and heart, balancing the high stakes and action with quieter character driven moments.

This story delivers a wild and gripping journey through an extremely detailed world, and it ends on a major cliffhanger that leaves you eager for more.

4 stars!! ✨🤍
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of fantasy, especially readers who enjoy romantasy, epic quests, and found family.

Thank you so much to @netgalley, @headofzeus and the wonderful @venetiaconstintine for allowing me the absolute pleasure of reading the eARC for The Last Starborn Seer.
Venetia has got the most beautiful lyrical writing style, I was immediately immersed in her world and wow is it incredible. The world building in this book is next level, like insanely detailed and wonderfully complex, but in the absolute best way. I felt like I was there.
For me, almost every single character in this book is a bit morally grey, there is a hardness, and arrogance, and a bit of a selfish thing about most of them and it really makes you think about them as a person/character. I loved the feelings that Venetia provoked in me because at times I really wanted to scream at the FMC. I am also not entirely sure I can forgive her for a certain something and Venetia you know exactly what that is 😂
I don’t know who to trust, I don’t know who I should be rooting for, and there is just so much more to come.

I have no idea where certain aspects of this story are going to do, I just know that I need to find out, so if book 2 would like to land in my lap at any time, I’m cool with that.

If you love Sarah A Parker’s writing style, this is PERFECT for you!

Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of The Last Starborn Seer by Venetia Constantine, to be published on March 5th, 2026.

“BE BRAVE, SHINE BRIGHT”

The Last Starborn Seer is a beautifully written and emotionally rich mix of epic fantasy and romantasy, with very immersive and captivating world-building that had me hooked from the first chapter. The vivid descriptions painted a beautiful image of the world, its diverse characters, and magical creatures in a way that felt cinematic and atmospheric.

The story follows Leilani, a princess shunned for her magic, cursed by prophetic visions that are slowly corrupting her mind. Trying to escape her fate of an arranged marriage to her childhood rival, she sets off on a quest to find a sceptre which, according to a prophecy, could end the Sickening that has plagued the realms of Arcelia.

💜 WHAT TO EXPECT 💜

🖤 Dual POV
🖤 Slow burn
🖤 Found family
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Love triangle
🖤 Magical creatures
🖤 Forced marriage
🖤 Epic adventure
🖤 Prophecy & destiny

✅ WHAT I LOVED

“I felt a spark in that cave, and these mountains are living proof that flowers can bloom in the most barren soil”.

I absolutely adored all the magical creatures and the vivid writing that literally made the world ✨sparkle✨. The book focuses more on the political side and the quest, with romance being more of a backstory (so far! 😏). It really got my brain working - it wasn’t a book I could just whizz through. It truly is an epic fantasy that makes you feel like you are going on an adventure with the characters.

The side characters are really memorable, and I wish Maris, Delphine, and Tansy had a bit more “page time” as opposed to Blayze. Leilani was an interesting character, constantly battling her mental struggles and torn between saving the realm or saving her mother. I really felt for her despite her being frustrating at times and making questionable decisions driven by her selfishness. The ending had me on the edge of my seat, and it definitely made up for the slower parts!

❌ WHAT DIDN’T WORK AS WELL

The world-building felt a bit too heavy at times, especially with the names and terms being very similar. The pacing seemed a bit off - after about 50%, I had to really push through as nothing seemed to happen and the plot felt repetitive. I was also missing some character development, as it seemed that everyone was just morally grey.

Despite the romance playing more of a background role in the story, it felt a bit generic, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic seemed slightly forced. I don’t mind love triangles, but this one felt a bit unnecessary, at least at this point.


💜 FINAL THOUGHTS💜

Overall, it’s a great and promising start to the trilogy. The world is rich, the stakes are high and there is so much potential for the story and characters to grow. I cannot wait to be back in Arcelia and see where the story goes.

Dazzling, ethereal and glimmers with adventure, self-reflection and true human emotion.

I just have to start by saying I loved it. The world, the magic, the characters, the creatures, all of it was ambitious, cohesive and ultimately, absolutely spectacular to visualise in my mind. I could hear the waters of Nimbi, smell the ice and crystals and I could SEE the diaphanous haze round the edges of my minds vision as I followed Leilani, Astrophel and crew as they undertook their journey.

There is a world, and an eco-system to be built at the beginning of any series, and although that can seem somewhat heavy to those who maybe haven't delved to far into any of the larger epic-fantasy stories, the world-building is concise, incredibly beautiful and I found it very easy to understand the world, the magic and how it turns. There is this beautiful crystalline aesthetic that is ever present and I truly feel I would walk around Leilani's ream with child-like wonder and awe.

Leilani was an interesting character, at times unlikeable, at times selfish and at times, so stuttered by her own mental struggles that decisions are not made with clarity that outside of a fantasy setting and fictional storyline, there is a true undercurrent of human emotion here.

Astrophel was a young boy used as a pawn, and I think that is clearly evident how he will blindly follow Leilani's fathers thinly vieled disgust of his "branded" daughter, I enjoyed his discovery of Leilani the person, rather than Leilani the Princess and how his opinion of her changes throughout their journey.

The rest of the characters, Blayze, Maris, Tansy I all thought were very well-rounded with their own ambitions, fears and they made for wonderfully rich companions on what seems a simple task. Little do they all know what is coming next. Blayze's one-liners were a wonderful comic relief to some of the darker, more fraught scenes and I definitely laughed out loud more than once.

The romantic undercurrent throughout this is very interesting, as there is somewhat of a triangle forming but not in the way it initially seems and it opened up a thread that I am intrigued to see continue and where it eventually goes.

The story is full of adventure, wonder, perilious journeys, difficult sacrifices and a delicate but fraught battle between duty, desire, friendship and self-belief and I truly, truly cannot wait to continue this series.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy.

When I first started reading, I expected a fantasy with a touch of romance because the worldbuilding at the beginning is so rich and detailed. Instead, it turned out to be more of a romance with fantasy elements. That said, I can’t overstate how immersive this author’s writing style is. Everything feels so vivid and alive. It actually reminded me of When the Moon Hatched, which I loved, so that ended up being a wonderful comparison for me.

One thing I struggled with was the fact that only one MMC had a point of view. I really missed getting inside the other character’s head, and I think having both perspectives would have made the emotional journey even stronger.

Overall, though, I truly enjoyed this book.

I went into this expecting a Tolkienesque epic fantasy and it absolutely delivered on world-building. The Last Starborn Seer is dazzling, intricate, and immersive, with a magical world so vivid you can see the crystals sparkle, hear the waters of Nimbi, and feel the chill of Astral Mountain. Venetia Constantine’s writing is lyrical and detailed, and I was immediately pulled into Arcelia’s shimmering realms.

Leilani Stellarion, the last of her bloodline, is a complex protagonist. Her prophetic Starborn magic corrupts her mind and isolates her, and following her journey. Balancing personal struggles, family duty, and a quest to end the Sickening was compelling. She’s flawed, selfish at times, and frustrating, but her struggles feel real and human. Astrophel and the supporting cast are morally grey, which adds layers to their interactions, though I found some character development a little rushed, especially in how fast their attitudes shift during the quest.

The romance elements are present but secondary; there’s the hint of a love triangle, but at this stage it feels more like tension and lust than a fully developed relationship. I appreciated that the story prioritizes adventure, politics, and magic over instant romance but if you’re expecting a traditional love story, that’s not the focus here.

The pacing is uneven at times. The first half is slower, heavily focused on exposition and world-building, which might feel overwhelming with all the lore, magical systems, and terminology. The second half picks up, and the stakes become higher, with emotional and political tensions that kept me engaged.

What stood out most was the world-building opalescent, glittering, and alive with history, magical creatures, and unique cultures. The magical system and mythology are well-integrated, and the landscapes themselves feel like characters. Some side characters, like Maris, Tansy, and Briar, could use more development, and a few plot points felt repetitive, but the foundation for a sweeping series is solid.

Overall, The Last Starborn Seer is an ambitious, enchanting start to a series. It’s perfect for readers who love rich, cinematic fantasy worlds, morally complex characters, and quests that challenge both body and mind. I’m curious to see how the story and the characters develop in the next book.

3.5/5

YES.

Ever since this book started popping up on my feed, I was curious. It sounded like such a promising start to a new fantasy series, and I’m so happy to say it delivered.

From the very first chapters, you’re IN the story. I was amazed by how quickly it made me feel so many different emotions.
Leilani instantly had my sympathy, while Astrophel was someone I didn’t like at all in the beginning. Getting both POVs was interesting, and I kept going back and forth in my thoughts about them. Without spoiling anything, let’s just say my opinions may have changed more than once.
I’m also hoping that the side characters get more page time in the next books, because I found myself wanting more of them.

I immediately noticed how much I enjoyed the writing style. The world feels incredibly lush and vivid, and I could picture everything so clearly. Be it places or creatures, it was coming alive in my head. The only small challenge for me was the language. As a non-native English reader, I found myself looking up quite a few words, likely because of the 16th/17th-century tone. While it added to the atmosphere, I was sometimes a bit tired of learning new vocabulary on top of the worldbuilding.

The story takes a little time to build, which makes sense for the first book in an epic quest series. I never felt that it dragged, and I was never bored. The pacing fit the journey perfectly, and I loved how the deep lore was woven naturally into the narrative. Most of the time, explanations arrived just before I even realized I had questions.
The only aspect that remained slightly unclear to me was the full extent of Leilani’s magic. Discovering it alongside her was interesting, but I’m still not entirely sure what she is capable of or exactly how it works.

Once the quest truly begins, the pacing picks up, and I was completely on the edge of my seat approaching the ending. Some moments felt a little predictable, but there were still enough surprises—and an ending that definitely made me think, okay… wow.

I’m incredibly curious to see where this story goes next. This world still feels vast and full of things left to explore, and I can’t wait to watch the characters and their relationships develop in future installments.

Definitely recommending it to fantasy lovers who enjoy lush worldbuilding, deep lore, and a plot-driven quest at the heart of the story.

This intricately crafted fantasy brims with whimsy and depth. The compelling plot keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Leilani, burdened by a curse and ostracized for her starborn powers, becomes the target of blame for the sickening. Spurred by a prophecy about an ancient artifact, she embarks on a quest to find it, hoping to escape her arranged/forced marriage. Told through dual points of view, the narrative offers fresh perspectives and a well-rounded tale. Unlike many familiar stories with obvious tropes this one stands out as an original, exceptional read. It is truly an epic fantasy with romantic elements rather than a traditional romantasy.

The Last Starborn Seer is a must-read for fans of intricate magic systems, immersive world-building, and richly layered characters. The story unfolds through thoughtful internal dialogue delivered in a compelling dual POV, allowing readers to fully inhabit both perspectives and experience the emotional stakes from multiple angles.

One of the standout elements is its top-tier nickname execution… truly some of the best in the genre. Alongside that, the novel delivers on several beloved tropes:
• Quest-driven adventure
• Reluctant allies
• Ancient, lingering magic
• A tension-filled love triangle

If you enjoy character-driven fantasy wrapped in mythic stakes, complex relationships, and layered perspectives, this one is well worth your time.

Many thanks to Aria & Aries Fiction and NetGalley for the early copy - I thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

Fantastic book! Loved this storyline so much. I cannot wait to see if there is a book 2. From start to finish i was hooked.

Just… Wow 😨 I’m genuinely not even sure where to start with writing this review! I had a feeling this book was going to be good but it exceeded ALL expectations. The only thing I will mention is that it definitely leans more YA than Adult, I’m fine with that but others may not be.

The Last Starborn Seer is the most beautifully written story I have read in a long time. And it really is a STORY in the most wonderful sense. The depth of feeling and lyrical writing verges on poetry, and don’t even get me started on the intricate, immersive world-building! I felt like I was living Leilani’s journey (both literal and metaphorical) right alongside her.

I really love the found-family trope and this book is a masterclass in both that and morally-grey main characters. Oh and the plot twists? Done to perfection!!
I just want to say thankyou to Venetia Constantine for bringing this world and story to life because it really is so beautiful 🥹 I cannot wait to read more! 💜

Huge thankyou to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the eARC 🫶🏻

4.25⭐️

Thanks to NetGalley and Aria&Aries/Head of Zeus for this eARC, this is my honest review!

Leilani is the last surviving member of an ancient bloodline. She is shunned for her Starborn magic, and bears the legacy of the SisterTouched. When she discovers the chance to end the Sickening that is plaguing her world, she has to form an alliance and embark on a quest to receive the lost sceptre.

This book was BEAUTIFULLY written. When I say beautifully, I really mean it. The description of every character, setting and event was so incredibly written that it felt truly immersive. The world building starts fairly complex, but that’s because it’s quite big in scope and full of history. This felt a little terrifying at first, but I will say that as the book progressed it made much more sense.

I love love loved every character in this book. The way that the alliance of essentially people who did not trust or really like each other strengthened and blossomed into a family feel was beautiful. No character in this is perfect (perhaps except Tansy, she’s a sweetie) but just that adds to the potential for character development which we see throughout this book. I also really loved the quest side of this book. It was full of challenge, teamwork and unexpected twists, and gave a real sense of adventure.

I would say this book has a slow to medium pace, not being as gripping as some other fantasy books, however I think this pace worked for the lyrical nature of the writing style and the world building. Any faster and it may have felt rushed. The ending has definitely opened up the options for the rest of the series, and I can’t wait to see how the story evolves.

‘Two magi will rise. One of fire and one of stardust. One fated to destroy the world; the other to save it.’

“But as the last Starborn Seer, turning a blind eye is one luxury I can’t afford. Not anymore.”

I was thrilled to receive this unexpected but gorgeous ARC of The Last Starborn Seer by @Venetiaconstantine from @hqstories and I couldn’t wait to dive in and what a read it was.

Leilani is Startouched, a legacy that brought about a deadly curse that has plagues the four kingdoms. When a prophecy uncovers a relic capable of ending the Sickening, Leilani seizes the chance to escape the court and reclaim her destiny. To recover the lost sceptre, she must survive the treacherous journey to Astral Mountain and perform an ancient blood rite—one that requires unity between the feuding realms.

To succeed, Leilani must form fragile alliances with sworn enemies, outsmart rebel forces, and conceal her growing feelings for a rival envoy—all under the watchful eye of her fiancé, Astrophel. But something darker stalks them through the mountains: a faceless spectre with a centuries-old grudge, intent on claiming the sceptre for itself

The world building was grand, with an intricate magic system and political intrigue amongst and within kingdoms sets up a story that draws you in slowly due to the complexity. Leilani is convinced that being Startouched, she is the key to curing the Sickening but can she do it quickly enough to save her mother? Astrophel quickly grows on you as he realises that he has been manipulated and you see how he truly cares for Leilani. I adore Blayze for his love for Serafine alone and then the depth of emotion he displays. The characters grow closer as they progress on this quest and you are left holding your breath as they battle the odds in an attempt to cure their world. While I entirely understand Leilani, the life she has led thus far and her motivations for doing as she does, it did leave me not liking her very much. I suspect however this is deliberate so that we appreciate her growth as she heals over the series and I look forward to this very much.

Pick this up if you are a fan of epic quests and complex magic systems with deep themes of growth, healing and love firmly interwoven

The Last Starborn Seer is POWERFUL. Tense, anxiety inducing, and utterly heart wrenching.

This story doesn’t shy away from difficult themes. It explores racism, the fear of what isn’t understood, generational trauma, and the unbearable cost of sacrificing one person for the survival of many. Every page feels heavy with consequence, creating a constant undercurrent of dread that kept me emotionally on edge from beginning to end.

The characters are deeply complex and painfully human, each battling their own trauma, addiction, and buried secrets. Their struggles feel raw and authentic, making their choices, even the devastating ones, feel inevitable rather than contrived.

This is not an easy read emotionally, but it is an unforgettable one. My heart genuinely hurts after finishing it and yet I already need more.

I thought that the Last Starborn Seer was a brilliant read. It felt like I was reading a high fantasy book and the world building was done well. I think the author managed this well as it felt like a very intricate world which needed to be thoroughly thought of and described. The pacing of the book is a little slow because of this but I think that needs to be acknowledged with every good fantasy book as if you rush it too much it can lead you to forget.

I enjoyed the dual pov an how this and I quite liked how the romance wasn’t a focal point but more of an added on feature to the story. FMC is interesting and likeable and I also enjoyed the MMC.

I would recommend this book.

This was somehow more high fantasy than fantasy than I was expecting but I’m not mad at it I loved it! Defo a lot to get my head around the lore and the world building but it was a lot of fun once it got going! This was seriously so beautifully written I was obsessed! I need book 2 now pleaseeeeee!

⋆｡°✩ ᴀʀᴄ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ✩°｡⋆

ᴛɪᴛʟᴇ : The Last Starborn Seer
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : Venetia Constantine
ꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅ: E-Book & Paperback

Tropes:
⚬ High Fantasy
⚬ Love Triangle
⚬ Magical Quest
⚬ Dual POV
⚬ Fantastical Creatures
⚬ Political Twists

So I'm normally a big romance/romantasy reader, but i really do enjoy High Fantasy books as well and this one was amazing! Venetia did such a good job at creating such a mag9ical and beautiful world that sucked me in and i wish i could visit!

The wording was so lyrical throughout that the whole book flowed really well. You can see how much work Venetia did to build this incredible world. I really enjoyed the magic system and the lore behind everything, i was really happy we has a glossary style thing at the beginning of the book, this was such a big help to keep track of who and what is being described. I could see everyone and everything so clearly and when i looked at the art Venetia had posted to her socials i was very pleased to see they looked exactly how i imagined from the descriptions!

OMG how cute are the animals though!??!!? Briar is gorgeous!

The quest was fun and interesting to follow, i love how we learned about the world along with Leilani and Astrophel. Leilani development throughout the book is so good! You can see how much she grows and evolves. How she becomes more confident in herself and i loved seeing her discover her magic!

In the book there is a kind of love triangle, while romance is not the main feature of the book i think it was done really well! Both of the males have flaws and morally grey, it was nice too see both their journeys and i hope in book 2 week get more POVs to show this more!

That ending, omg my heart was in my throat! My heart broke for, someone. no spoilers lol! I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book with the crew!!!