The Stars Never Rise
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The Stars Never Rise 〰️
This is my second read of this book. I read this initially when it first came out. I loved it then, and I love it even more after this re-read. Somehow I feel like I am more into this story now than when it first came out. But that's the thing about Vincent. Her books age like fine wine. They're always amazing the first read. But after some time away and you re-read them, they're somehow even better than they were the first read. There is a reason Vincent is my all-time favourite author. Her works are so good they always demand a re-read, and they never disappoint.
This story takes place in the future and yet is grounded in today's reality. The Church has taken over all manners of authority, and because in this universe where demons are real, everyone allows the Church to dictate every aspect of their lives. It mirrors our world in a way. Religion plays a huge role in most people's lives, and people don't usually question the higher-up's authority. However, in Vincent's world, the Church is far more sinister than ours. (Not to say there isn't any evil in the Church in our world; there is corruption in anything with authority, unfortunately. Not always, but it happens).
This book does read like a considerable world-building and is set up for the second book in two-part series. That isn't to say it's a bad thing. And that also doesn't make this a bad book. Far from it, actually. But I can see how some people may see it that way. But because Vincent is such a masterful storyteller, we don't even realize it's a massive exposition dump. It reads like a valid story and is intriguing the entire way.
I will say, however, that Finn and Nina's relationship feels a bit insta-lovey. While I love their relationship, and I do find they have chemistry, both Nina and Finn are pretty attached to teacher other (like kissing) basically from the moment they meet. And that's fine, but they're acting like they've been together a lot longer than a week or so. That's the only negative thing I can say about this book, and even then, it's a huge nitpick because I also ship these two so much.
If you're a fan of any of Vincent's books, you'll be sure to enjoy this one (as well as the sequel, I bet).
