You’ll definitely be star-touched by this book. Inspired by Hades & Persephone and Indian mythology, The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi centres on Maya, who is doomed to bring destruction according to the horoscope, fleeing her home and enters the underworld. She becomes drawn to Amar, the master of that realm, but it’s short-lived as she’s tricked into something that unleashes a dark force across both worlds. She has to set things right before it’s too late.
The writing is rich and beautiful, enough to sweep you off your feet and sigh in bliss. The only downsides I picked up are the romance and character development. I thought the instalove was too fast and there wasn’t enough time to develop a chemistry or connection between Maya and Amar. I didn’t believe their love. I felt her mission to rescue him and his realm was out of obligation and apology.
Moreover, I’m tired of male characters who abduct female characters and force them to like/love them despite keeping secrets. No matter how tragic their backstory is. Also tired of female characters falling for these guys instantly, despite their shitty behaviour, because….of some unknown reason or their past life. For a moment, I wanted the actual villain to win over Amar. I would side with female villains over brooding males who don’t really give enough choices for the female protags or respect their wishes.
The characters were underdeveloped. I liked them but I didn’t feel an attachment to them. They were more mythical than real. I did feel something was missing in terms of plot and structure. The climax and ending felt abrupt and choppy. Despite these flaws, I enjoyed the book and wished for more. A sequel that flows better.
Rating: 4/5
