The Symmetry of Stars

Embark on a mesmerizing journey of fate, identity, and self-discovery with Alex Myers' "The Symmetry of Stars," a captivating retelling of the epic Italian legend of Orlando Furioso. From the acclaimed author of "The Story of Silence," this 2022 hardcover release from HarperVoyager weaves a rich tapestry of magic, myth, and heroic self-affirmation that will enchant fans of literary fantasy like "Uprooted" and "The Bear and the Nightingale." Beyond the familiar constellations, a celestial battle rages between two powerful gods: one championing Nature, the belief that destiny is etched in our very being from birth; the other advocating for Nurture, the conviction that our true selves are revealed through love, experience, and the shaping influence of the world around us. To settle their cosmic dispute, they wager a bet, choosing twin pairs as their earthly avatars. The twins who triumph will determine the fate of the world, deciding which philosophy reigns supreme. In a serene westerly valley, nestled amidst rolling hills and ancient forests, a noble family welcomes the birth of twins, a girl and a boy. These children are entrusted to the care of a mysterious teacher, a wise and compassionate mentor who nurtures their potential without the constraints of societal expectations. They are taught to embrace knowledge, cultivate love, and explore the boundless possibilities that lie within. Far to the east, on a remote island shrouded in mist and steeped in arcane energy, a lone woman washes ashore, clinging to life. With her final breath, she delivers twins into the world. These children are raised under the peculiar tutelage of a reclusive sorcerer, their lives defined not by affection but by danger, magic, and the untamed forces of nature. He surrounds them with perilous trials, honing their instincts and shaping them into formidable warriors. Society anticipates these children to conform to traditional gender roles, to become men and women bound by societal norms. However, the immortal gods have their own agenda. Disregarding human conventions, they guide the twins according to their divine purposes, each pair embodying a different facet of the age-old debate. As the twins' paths converge, they will face a series of trials that will test their strength, courage, and resolve. Which twins will prevail? What factors truly determine a person's destiny? Is it the inherent nature we are born with, or the nurturing environment that shapes our character? Alex Myers masterfully reimagines the classic tale of Orlando Furioso, exploring themes of twinship, East versus West, and the struggle for self-discovery. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, he crafts a multilayered narrative that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page. Myers is known for his skill at reinterpreting classic literature through a modern lens, particularly with LGBTQ+ themes, adding layers of depth and relevance to timeless stories. Readers can expect similar explorations of gender and identity in "The Symmetry of Stars," making it a compelling read for those interested in diverse and inclusive storytelling. "The Symmetry of Stars" is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and enchanting escape into a world where magic and mythology intertwine, and where the very essence of human identity is called into question.