From Alex Aster comes an adult romantasy set in a land split by a brutal war. Starside is the realm of magic and immortals while Stormside holds mortals who fight for scraps of that power. Every fifty years the gates open and fifty challengers cross into Starside to pursue a pool of magic that can heal, grant wealth, or extend life.
Aris, an orphaned blacksmith's apprentice, seeks only vengeance after a goddess burned her village and killed her family. She must survive the king's Culling and claim a great sword to become a true competitor, but that weapon also makes her a target amid ancient creatures, bloodthirsty immortals, and a new peril that rises from the ground at night. Harlan Raker, the king's guard who betrayed her years ago, may prove crucial to her survival while Aris hides a secret tied to her family's death.
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Aris begins as a lowborn competitor who must claim a powerful sword to survive a deadly selection. The story centers on magic, immortal rulers, and a ritualized contest that sends mortals into Starside. Ancient creatures and a newly rising threat make the realm dangerous and uncertain. Harlan Raker is a merciless guard who betrayed Aris years ago and now figures in her struggle to stay alive.
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G-NRIS™ identifies Starside (Deluxe Limited Edition) primarily as Dark Fantasy. Its strongest themes include Vengeance, Survival, Magic and Power, Betrayal and Trust, and Quest. Prominent narrative patterns include Deadly Tournament, The Chosen One, Reluctant Hero, and Enemies to Allies.
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