Nora Roberts, a prolific author known for her ability to weave romance with elements of fantasy and suspense, embarks on a new journey with Stars of Fortune, the first installment in The Guardians Trilogy. This novel is a captivating blend of magic, destiny, and the power of human connection, set against the enchanting backdrop of the Greek island of Corfu. Roberts' storytelling prowess is on full display as she introduces readers to a world where dreams and reality intertwine, and where the stakes are as high as the stars themselves.

The story centers around Sasha Riggs, a reclusive artist whose life is dominated by vivid dreams and nightmares. These visions, which she translates into extraordinary paintings, lead her to the sun-drenched island of Corfu. Here, she encounters Bran Killian, an enigmatic Irish magician who seems to have stepped right out of her dreams. The chemistry between Sasha and Bran is palpable from the outset, and Roberts skillfully develops their relationship, balancing the tension of their mysterious connection with the warmth of burgeoning romance.

Roberts excels in character development, and Stars of Fortune is no exception. Sasha is a compelling protagonist, grappling with her fears and insecurities while discovering her true potential. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace her unique gifts and the destiny that awaits her. Bran, with his charm and secrets, complements Sasha perfectly, and their dynamic is both engaging and believable. The supporting characters, each with their own distinct personalities and backstories, add depth to the narrative. The group of six, drawn together by fate, must learn to trust one another and work as a team to find the elusive fire star.

The themes of Stars of Fortune are both timeless and universal. At its core, the novel explores the idea of destiny and the power of choice. Sasha's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the courage it takes to embrace one's true self. The novel also delves into the importance of trust and collaboration, as the characters must overcome their differences and unite for a common goal. Love, in its many forms, is a central theme, and Roberts handles it with her trademark sensitivity and insight.

The setting of Corfu is beautifully rendered, with Roberts' descriptive prose bringing the island to life. The lush landscapes, vibrant colors, and rich history of the island provide a stunning backdrop for the unfolding drama. The magical elements of the story are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the sense of wonder and enchantment that permeates the novel.

In terms of pacing, Stars of Fortune strikes a fine balance between action and introspection. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. Roberts' ability to blend romance, fantasy, and suspense is evident, and she keeps the tension high as the characters race against time to prevent the fire star from falling into the wrong hands.

Comparatively, fans of Roberts' previous works, such as The Circle Trilogy or The Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy, will find familiar elements in Stars of Fortune. The blend of romance and fantasy, along with a strong ensemble cast, is a hallmark of Roberts' style. However, Stars of Fortune stands out with its unique setting and the intriguing premise of dreams guiding destiny. Readers who enjoy the works of authors like Deborah Harkness or Sarah J. Maas, who also blend romance with fantasy, will likely find much to appreciate in this novel.

Overall, Stars of Fortune is a compelling start to The Guardians Trilogy. Nora Roberts has crafted a story that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, with characters that resonate and a plot that captivates. The novel's exploration of destiny, love, and the power of human connection is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers. As the first book in a trilogy, it sets the stage for what promises to be an epic journey, and fans will undoubtedly be eager to see where Roberts takes them next.

For those interested in exploring this magical world, Stars of Fortune is available on Goodreads for further details and reviews.