Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

Some books crawl inside you and take root, staying with you long after you read the final page, and Set the Stars Alight is one of those. This is one of these books that left me speechless, but I’m going to do my best to share my thoughts.

The novel itself features two perspectives, Frederick Hanford, a Regency-era Admiral’s son, and Lucy Clairmont, a modern-day marine archaeologist. Between Lucy’s storyline and Frederick’s, Dykes leads the reader on a magical journey as Lucy, “The Matchstick Girl,” tries to solve the mystery of the HMS Jubilee, a ship that went missing two centuries ago.

This book has everything: magic, adventure, romance, and mystery. And the way Dykes weaves Frederick’s and Lucy’s stories together is phenomenal and masterful. She drops hints and clues throughout, bringing the reader into the mystery as Lucy strives to unravel it.

I’ll just warn you: this book is hard to put down! Not just because of the mystery but also the characters.

First you have Lucy, whose relationship with her parents is endearing. Dykes manages to immerse you into the family. So much so that when tragedy strikes, you really feel it with Lucy. Then there’s Frederick whose childhood is almost the opposite of Lucy’s. And you can feel the difference. Seeing the two grow up not only adds to their characterization but also draws you closer to them.

Then you have the supporting characters. Of all them, Dash is definitely my favorite. From the gangly boy to the grown man, Dash gripped my heart and wouldn’t let go. (I think he may be my new book boyfriend.)

And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the spiritual themes of truth and sacrifice. Dykes weaves in these threads naturally without sounding preachy, and there were so many times in the novel I found myself reminded of God’s majesty and His Son’s sacrifice without her even having to mention it (although there are a few points where she does, and since you’re already thinking about it, it doesn’t hit you over the head.)

Overall, Set the Stars Alight is an unforgettable book you’ll want to reread as soon as you turn the last page.

Further Information

Set the Stars Alight releases on June 30. To pre-order, click the image or check out your favorite book retailer.

For more on Amanda Dykes, check out her website and sign up for her newsletter or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

If you enjoy dual-timeline novels, check out my review for Echoes Among the Stones by Jaime Jo Wright.

(Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.)