Starborn

by Lucy Hounsom
Starborn cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Fantasy
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 2258
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781447268512
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2015-04-23
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Kyndra's fate is forever altered when she accidentally disrupts an ancient ceremony in her small village, ending centuries of tradition. Blamed for an unnatural storm that targets her community, she fears for her life until two strangers save her, wielding powers fueled by the sun and the moon. Together, they flee to the hidden citadel of Naris, where Kyndra experiences disturbing visions of war and one man's terrifying response. Her journey is filled with danger and discovery as she navigates the city's subterranean chambers, encountering fanatics and rebels. To unlock her own magic, she must survive brutal tests, ultimately discovering a force greater than she ever imagined. But can she control it to right an ancient wrong? /n/nShortlisted for the 2016 David Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Debut, Starborn is a thrilling fantasy adventure that blends traditional fantasy elements with a richly imagined world. The novel explores themes of betrayal, salvation, and the struggle to control one's destiny. With the popularity of fantasy fiction at an all-time high, Starborn offers readers a captivating tale of magic, power, and the journey to self-discovery.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · 2025-10-13
original 3.90

The reviewer finds the book highly imaginative and complex, though it requires a significant amount of concentration. They appreciate the originality and the richly detailed world.

Fantasy Book Review notes that 'Starborn' is a highly imaginative and complex opening to The Worldmaker Trilogy. The reviewer acknowledges that the book requires a significant amount of concentration due to its intricate details and world-building. They appreciate the originality and the depth of the story, making it a standout in the fantasy genre. The reviewer also highlights the richly detailed world and the engaging plot, which keeps readers hooked.

Quick quotes

    A highly imaginative, complex and original opening book of The Worldmaker Trilogy.

    Initially I was overawed by the sheer concentration required to keep up with the intricate details.

    The richly detailed world and engaging plot make it a standout in the fantasy genre.

Andrew Wallace · Andrew Wallace · 2018-02-03
impressive 4.00

The reviewer praises the book's intricate world-building and engaging characters, noting that it's a strong debut. They appreciate the unique magical system and the depth of the story.

Andrew Wallace highlights the impressive world-building and character development in 'Starborn'. They are particularly drawn to the unique magical system and the way it integrates into the story. The reviewer finds the book to be a strong debut, with a richly detailed world that draws readers in. They also appreciate the depth of the characters and the engaging plot, making it a standout in the fantasy genre.

Quick quotes

    The world-building is intricate and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the story.

    The characters are well-developed and engaging, adding depth to the narrative.

    The unique magical system is one of the standout features of the book.

Amie's Book Reviews · 2017-06-24
enthusiastic 5.00

The reviewer is highly enthusiastic about the book, describing it as one of the best YA fantasy books in recent years. They praise the vividly described characters and the engaging story.

Amie's Book Reviews is highly enthusiastic about 'Starborn', describing it as one of the best YA fantasy books in recent years. They praise the vividly described characters and the engaging story, which makes it a compelling read. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to appeal to a wide audience, making it a standout in the genre. They also appreciate the richly detailed world and the unique magical system, which adds depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Starborn is a perfect example of fantasy fiction at its finest.

    I literally devoured this book.

    The characters are so vividly described that you can't help but be drawn into their world.

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