I am writing this review after the book ended. FINDING STARDUST ended in chapter 248. So, you don't have to be wary of reading a long and dragging novel. It only has less than 250 chapters, of which 50 chapters are free.
Chapter 249 - present is the sequel. It was supposed to be in a separate book, but I have exhausted my book quota in Webnovel and cannot make a new one. So, if you're looking to read only the first book, you can stop at chapter 248.
STORY DEVELOPMENT
It's set in the future, the year 2056. Mostly in Singapore (a bit of Paris), and a new planet, Akkadia. So, you will get a slice-of-life feel from the book. Even after the MCs go to Akkadia, the planet is described to be a more advanced planet similar to earth with 6 main kingdoms, with Akkadia as the biggest kingdom that rules all. Magic and technology live side by side in this planet.
The story is well-paced, not too fast not too slow. I would say perfect. However, since I'm a pantser, I write as I go. I only know the beginning and ending of the story. I am discovering the story as I write it, just like you.
CHARACTERS
The female lead is Emma Stardust, a non-typical girl. She is cold, reclusive, and overpowered. Physically, she is very beautiful and she is also a genius. However, she is not too social and only care about herself and the people she loves. She couldn't care less about other people and is scheming to the bone.
There are 3 male leads in this book and they will have their own time to shine. Their love story with FL will not happen simultaneously, so it's not that kind of reverse-harem. You might like one and not the others, or you might love all, but all MLs are doting, protective, and loving. There is no overbearing, rapey, aloof male leads here.
STABILITY OF UPDATES
has gone down because I was sick all through December 2020, but I will pick up the back again soon. So, at least I can publish 1 chapter per day.
WARNING
This story depicts personal struggle and many, many hardships experienced by the MC. If you are not comfortable with tragedy, I suggest you to skip this book. Like a thorny rose, it's beautiful but it will tug your heartstrings and you might cry in some parts.