A review by ericarobyn
Stars shining darkly by Mercedes M. Yardley

challenging dark mysterious sad tense fast-paced

4.0

Stars Shining Darkly by Mercedes M. Yardley is a gripping story of terror, violence, and the unbreakable bonds of blood, enduring through even the darkest circumstances.

Content Warning: Sexual assault.

After witnessing the brutal slaying of their parents, this child is forced to remain on the ship and pretend like they hadn’t witnessed the brutality from the crew. Determined to get revenge one day, they end up getting a little help from the unexpected.

Wow, this one dives straight into the horror! I almost put it down after the first few pages, but I’m so glad I stuck with it. I couldn’t resist following the character’s journey. The path turned out to be far more surprising than I expected, and I loved how the author guided us to such a satisfying conclusion.

My Favorite Passages from Stars Shining Darkly –

One day we were sailing somewhere new and ominous. Even the stars shown darkly. The ship creaked and rocked side-to-side while we watched off the bow. 

I didn’t know a man could go so pale and still be alive. The only color in his face was his rum blossom nose. 

Fire raced along the wood, taking great mouthfuls of anything that would burn. 

My Final Thoughts on Stars Shining Darkly –

Horror fans, if this isn’t on your radar, it should be! This was such a dark and fun read. Who doesn’t love a tale of revenge?!