Mia Sheridan's Once We Were Starlight is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the struggle for freedom in a world that often feels suffocating. Set against the backdrop of a life steeped in secrecy and sin, the novel follows seventeen-year-old Karys as she navigates the tumultuous waters of her past and the uncertain shores of her future. Sheridan's ability to weave a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and beautifully lyrical makes this book a compelling read that resonates deeply with its audience.

The story begins in Sundara, a lush yet forbidden oasis where Karys and her partner Zakai perform in a world that thrives on sexual deviancy. This setting serves as a metaphor for their entrapment; while it is a place of beauty, it is also a prison of sorts, where the characters are bound by the expectations and desires of others. Sheridan's vivid descriptions of Sundara create a palpable atmosphere that immerses the reader in Karys's reality, making the stakes of her journey all the more significant.

At the heart of the novel is the relationship between Karys and Zakai. Their love is portrayed as a sanctuary amidst chaos, a light that guides them through the darkness of their existence. Sheridan skillfully captures the intensity of young love, portraying it as both a source of strength and vulnerability. As they transition from the confines of Sundara to the bustling streets of New York City, the challenges they face threaten to unravel the bond they have forged. This shift in setting is not just a physical relocation; it symbolizes the broader themes of growth and self-discovery that permeate the narrative.

Character development is one of Sheridan's strong suits in this novel. Karys is a complex protagonist whose journey is marked by both resilience and fragility. As she grapples with her new reality, the reader witnesses her evolution from a girl defined by her circumstances to a young woman who begins to carve out her own identity. The contrast between her life in Sundara and her experiences in New York City highlights her internal struggle. She is faced with the daunting task of reconciling her past with her present, and this conflict is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.

Zakai, too, is a richly developed character whose own journey is equally compelling. His struggles with the transition to a new life and the pressures of their past create a tension that drives the narrative forward. Sheridan does not shy away from depicting the complexities of their relationship, showcasing how love can be both a refuge and a source of pain. The dynamic between Karys and Zakai is beautifully rendered, making their moments of connection all the more impactful.

Thematically, Once We Were Starlight delves into the concepts of trust, freedom, and the search for belonging. As Karys navigates her new life, she is confronted with the reality that not everyone can be trusted, and the world outside Sundara is fraught with its own dangers. This theme of trust is intricately woven into the fabric of the story, as Karys learns to discern who truly has her best interests at heart. The exploration of freedom is equally poignant; while Karys escapes the physical confines of Sundara, she must grapple with the emotional and psychological chains that continue to bind her.

Moreover, Sheridan's writing is imbued with a lyrical quality that elevates the narrative. Her prose flows seamlessly, drawing the reader into Karys's world and evoking a range of emotions. The imagery she employs is striking, particularly in her descriptions of both the desert oasis and the vibrant chaos of New York City. This contrast serves to highlight the stark differences between Karys's past and her present, enhancing the overall impact of the story.

In comparison to other works that explore similar themes, such as Colleen Hoover's It Ends with Us or Anna Todd's After, Sheridan's novel stands out for its nuanced portrayal of young love and the complexities of personal growth. While both Hoover and Todd delve into the intricacies of relationships, Sheridan's focus on the journey of self-discovery and the quest for freedom adds a unique layer to her narrative. The emotional depth and character-driven storytelling in Once We Were Starlight make it a standout in the genre.

Overall, Mia Sheridan's Once We Were Starlight is a beautifully crafted novel that captures the essence of love, loss, and the search for identity. Through Karys's journey, readers are invited to reflect on their own experiences of trust, freedom, and the complexities of human connection. Sheridan's ability to create a vivid and immersive world, coupled with her skillful character development, makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking story. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love, leaving readers with a sense of hope and the belief that even in the darkest of times, we can find our way back to the light.