Hmm. I don't quite know how to rate this title, or even what I think. This sample was just enough to pique my curiosity, but not enough to really get a feel for anything. The first five chapters on their own are confusing, more than anything. I'm definitely intrigued; it reminds me of The Hunger Games meets the Selection, I guess? Will be interested to see more.

LOVE!! Now I can't wait to get my preorder!

I was excited as soon as I read the synopsis and watched Alex's TikTok's. Not only was it atmospheric and addicting, I'm now left hanging for the rest of the book (and already anticipating book two).

These first five chapters really pulled me in! I can't wait to read the rest of the book and find out what happens. The characters are already so intriguing. Such a richly already developed world.

Lightlark is one of my most anticipated releases and this sneak peek was such a great way to give readers a taste of what the book has to offer. Even though this one shows the first five chapters of the book, I'm already loving Isla's character. The writing style is easy to read and makes it easy to dive into the world. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the book on release day and learning more about the characters!

I was able the get the first five chapters as an exclusive sneak peak for pre-ordering the book and OH MY GOD! I was screaming internally at every chapter! I am already in love with Grim, literally from his first line I was like "yep I'm in!" The story already feels so magical and epic, I truly believe this will be a comfort read for me when I get to read the whole thing. I am so ready for this adventure!!

These first 50 pages was everything I wanted. From what I've read so far the world building in this book is magnificent and the main lead is everything I want. She is strong, smart, brave, and loves chocolate:)
I cannot wait to finish this book. It has gotten me out of my long year reading slump.

I’m so excited to read this book! Those excerpt is absolutely amazing. I really like the details she’s added to the world building in the beginning and can only imagine what the entire book will be like.

I really enjoyed the sneak peek! The world building was so interesting and I love the different characters! I can’t wait to continue reading this magical YA fantasy!

Alex’s writing is absolutely transfixing. Lightlark has been one of my most anticipated reads of the year and I am distraught that I only have a few chapters. August 23rd cannot get here soon enough. The love that went into the story leaps from the page and I have already connected with the characters in such a way that is so rare. I can already tell that this is a book that will stay with me for a long time and is definitely on par with the greats of the YA genre.

Holy smokes. This was such a great tease to this series!!! I literally cannot wait to finish this book when it is released next month!!!

This review is based on the sneak peek (chapters 1-5), final review is yet to be decided after I read the complete book.

Lightlark is a world where the lost of lives and magic is at a cost, and would rely on the victor who can decide their futures. This reminds me slightly of the anime Fate/Zero in terms of fighting a battle at a certain period of time to get what they want/wish for.

What slightly threw me off is the explanation of what the Centennial is about—it was repetitive for me. I get that it was written for readers to get a sense of what, why, and how the Centennial happened, but it felt dragging and that I was getting an info I read from the previous chapter with only add-ons to the current chapter.

All of the realms are wonderful to visit. Each character has their own qualities to like and dislike. Isla's arc is nothing new but something I personally would want to see the progress.

In any case, I'm so excited to finish reading this.

#Lightlark #NetGalley

Six rulers, six curses, each fighting to break their respective kingdom's curse in a centennial competition against each other. Need I say more? The first five chapters have already trapped me with its smooth writing style, banter, and unexpected reveals already, The story is set, and I absolutely cannot wait until Lightlark's release date.

First of all, 5 chapters were not enough to fulfill my excitement about this book. These chapters left me anxious for more! I am already obsessed with Isla and want to know all about the history and past of Lightlark and its rulers. The story is already gripping and mysterious, I seriously don’t know how I will wait until my copy arrives!

Love it can't wait to read the rest of it when it comes out.
This little sample has be hooked. I need to read the rest.

I loved this sneak peek!! Super fantastical, wildly romantic vibes, and I already love the characters and the world.

Literally this was SO good I am itching for the rest of the book! I am not sure how I am going to be waiting until August for this to be released, but I can already tell this is going to be an amazing read.

I loved the sneak peek! I am looking forward to getting to read Lightlark in its full. I already love Grim and can’t wait to see his character develop! The sneak peek was great at giving a taste without giving the plot up. It looks like it will shape up to be an interesting read.

Many thanks to Netgalley, publishers, and Alex Aster herself for this advanced digital copy of the first five chapters to this book.

5/5

Wow. Okay.

This book has been HEAVILY anticipated on my TBR for a while, I preorded back in March. All of the additional hype from Alex herself with the preorder promotion, only made me want to read it even more.

All I can say is: I was not disappointed.

Granted, I cannot give a full review since I do not have the full book. But based on the first 50 (give or take) pages, it already seems like it will be a new favorite of mine!

I already love the characters and I am so excited for the full book so I can binge it in an afternoon and make it one of my new personality traits (lol).

Was provided a sample of Lightlark with my pre-order via netgalley for an honest review. Thus far, Aster’s prose and world building is excellent! I already am rooting for our main character Isla. I am looking forward to how Aster furthers both our plot as well as the intricate relationships between each character.

I received the first 5 chapters of LightLark early as a preorder gift. I am so excited for this book to release in August so I can find out what happens.