All the Painted Stars: A dazzling queer historical romance, perfect for fans of Freya Marske in 2026 (The Barden Series) (Book 2)

Very enjoyable fun read. The characters are well-written and likable. The romance was sweet. I really enjoyed this book. Thanks for a very entertaining read.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) First off, All the Painted Stars is the kind of book that feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly day—cozy, heartfelt, and a touch bittersweet. Emma Denny writes her characters with so much tenderness and care that it’s impossible not to root for them from the very first page. Lily and Jo? Absolute gems. Their connection radiates off the page, and their love feels as natural as breathing. The premise immediately hooked me: a medieval tournament, a daring disguise, and a woman risking it all to save her best friend? Yes, please! Lily’s transformation into a would-be knight was not only entertaining but also deeply endearing. Her fierce determination to protect Jo showed how far love—and maybe a bit of stubbornness—can take you. And Jo? She’s the grounding force in the whirlwind of Lily’s antics, her strength and kindness balancing out Lily’s reckless energy. Together, they’re pure magic. Favorite moments? Oh, let’s dish! The whole tournament scene had me absolutely hooked. Watching Lily fumble (but fiercely!) as a knight was equal parts hilarious and nerve-wracking. And when things went sideways and Jo had to step in? Chef’s kiss. The vulnerability in their lakeside conversations later—hidden away from the world—was swoon-worthy. It’s those quiet, stolen moments that make their love story so believable. The themes of choice and sacrifice really stood out. Both women are faced with impossible decisions—Lily with her impulsivity and Jo with…

So I love this book beyond words I can literally express, I am very thankful I found it and that Emma Denny Wrote it, I love Lily because she’s everything I picture of the perfect ✨Women✨ and Jo bc I see myself in her. 🫶 I am literally going to reread this book over and over, it’s become a favorite for real!

Action packed and romantic, it’s a sweet story worthy of the likes of Caitlyn and Vi. 😚 I enjoyed every word.

What a joy to return to the Hartswood world, this time following the reckless Lily as she rushes off to save her friend from marriage. By entering a tournament to win her favor. Disguised. Pretending to be a man. As one does when they are in love and willing to do anything to help the one other woman who has stolen her heart, even if she doesn't know it yet. We saw glimpses of Lily and Johanna in Penn and Raff's story, but here they get to shine all on their own. They shine in their friendship and unfolding love for one another. When Lily's actions wind up putting her and Jo into a sticky spot, they flee to regroup and recover with the help of brew mistress Mabel and a chance to see who they are to one another without the oppressive eyes of everyone else in the castles and keeps they would normally be held to. I loved the quiet moments between Lily and Jo. The moments where they both realized exactly how they felt (and how they had been suppressing so much of their feelings due to society, propriety, and trying to fit in in a world that didn't quite fit their own dreams). The intimate moments between them were written beautifully, and you could feel their ache, pining, confusion, and the utter care they had for one another. And as much as I loved Raff and Penn, Lily and Jo have stolen my heart. I did get to read this early (prior to U.S. publication). All opinions are my own.