Book Title: The Wandering Stars by J.D. Rasch
Category: Adult Fiction 18 yrs +, 316 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Lamina Press
Release date: October, 2026
Format available for review: print - softback (USA only) and ebook (EPUB, PDF, MOBI for Kindle) internationally
Content Rating: PG: No profanity. Occasional mentions of sex but nothing explicit.
When a sacred journey is corrupted by ambition, a quest for unity becomes a struggle for control
Elsewhere, Alitheia—the Wanderer and one of the few to have found the Golden Tree—returns to the Silver Forest, only to discover another tree rising from a desolate plain. Joined by Rogi, a former wizard searching for meaning beyond power, she follows a path not toward dominion but understanding.
As Thurmore's influence spreads, two competing visions of the future emerge: one built on obedience and fear, the other on compassion and connection. The fate of the wandering stars—and all who follow them—hangs in the balance.
Philosophical and character-driven, The Wandering Stars is an epic fantasy adventure exploring ambition, redemption, and the enduring search for meaning.
Expect a nice thought provoking blend of fantasy, adventure and questions. The author offers some interesting questions about power, compassion, and the choices people make in The Wandering Stars. The story follows several characters whose paths connect through their search for the Golden Tree, although each has a different reason for wanting to find it. I enjoyed the way the author showed that even good intentions can lead to trouble power and ambition are involved. The author gives plenty of attention to his characters and what they're going through. The pace is a little slower than you might expect from a fantasy adventure, with more focus on personal struggles and decisions than nonstop action. This speed not be for everyone, but I think the slower pace works well with the kind of story Rasch is telling.
The author brings a mix of characters to drive the storyline. Alitheia and Rogi seek understanding and connection, while Thurmore seems more interested in gaining power. The different character motivations and personalities create much of the conflict throughout the book. Malzus also has an interesting storyline as he deals with his past and tries to find answers about his father's death. His struggle with guilt and redemption adds another layer to the story. The characters each have their own reasons for making certain choices, and those decisions don't always lead where they expect (or where readers may want).
Would I recommend The Wandering Stars? Yes, especially to readers who enjoy fantasy that devotes more focus on the characters and the meanings behind their adventures. The novel contains magic, conflict, and an interesting quest, but there's also a lot about ambition, forgiveness, and learning from past mistakes. If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy that's action-packed from beginning to end, the slower pace may require some patience here. But if you enjoy getting to know the characters and seeing the impact of their choices on the story, this one is definitely worth checking out. It is the third book in The Wanderer series, and although it can be read on its own, reading the earlier books may help you connect with the characters and their journeys a little more. Overall, The Wandering Stars is a good choice for anyone who enjoys a fantasy adventure that gives them something to think about along the way.
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Jody is also a painter whose art explores the mysteries of our world. He worked in finance for many years but managed to use it for good by helping banks that give loans to the poor. Jody currently serves on not-for-profit boards that seek to make the world a better place.
A native New Yorker who was forced to move to the burbs, Jody now lives just outside New York City.
Connect with the author: website ~ instagram ~ goodreads
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