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Recommend this book:
The Huxian Fox
Nikki Brooke
2026 Finalist
341 Pages
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Isabella Harris for Readers' Favorite
The Huxian Fox by Nikki Brooke is an action-packed sci-fi novel that follows Fan Sung, a charismatic captain of the ship 'Huxian Fox.' It begins with Gussart, a crime lord whom Fun had tried to steal from, chasing Fan. Fan must get to the Huxian Fox quickly and leave the planet to escape Gussart. Eshan'ya, a royal, in an attempt to escape the planet, stumbles into the Huxian Fox. After successfully escaping from Gussart and the Quain military, Eshan'ya tells Fan her motives for retrieving a powerful, ancient Protogenoi Device that a ruthless warlord, Kriinal Braxt, is after, believing it'll grant him the power to control the galaxy. Fan and Eshan'ya, together with her loyal crew, embark on a high-stakes treasure hunt to find the Device before Kriinal Braxt can get it.
Fan Sung is one of the most compelling anti-heroes I've read about. Her struggle with addiction and her loyalty to her crew members gave the character a genuine human touch. I really appreciate Nikki Brooke's writing style, which was brilliant in using vivid descriptive language. The pacing was fast and filled with lots of high-stakes action, from the first chapter's intense chase to the final chapter's confrontation with Braxt and his Quain military. I loved how well the characters were developed, particularly Eshan'ya's growth from a sheltered royal to a cunning strategist who served as the central intelligence that kept the mission alive, translating ancient clues and planning strategic heists. The plot centers around futuristic space travel and ancient planets. The main theme of The Huxian Fox revolves around family bonds, loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. I recommend this book to readers who love fast-paced sci-fi novels with a compelling found family and a thrilling treasure hunt.
The Huxian Fox by Nikki Brooke is an action-packed sci-fi novel that follows Fan Sung, a charismatic captain of the ship 'Huxian Fox.' It begins with Gussart, a crime lord whom Fun had tried to steal from, chasing Fan. Fan must get to the Huxian Fox quickly and leave the planet to escape Gussart. Eshan'ya, a royal, in an attempt to escape the planet, stumbles into the Huxian Fox. After successfully escaping from Gussart and the Quain military, Eshan'ya tells Fan her motives for retrieving a powerful, ancient Protogenoi Device that a ruthless warlord, Kriinal Braxt, is after, believing it'll grant him the power to control the galaxy. Fan and Eshan'ya, together with her loyal crew, embark on a high-stakes treasure hunt to find the Device before Kriinal Braxt can get it.
Fan Sung is one of the most compelling anti-heroes I've read about. Her struggle with addiction and her loyalty to her crew members gave the character a genuine human touch. I really appreciate Nikki Brooke's writing style, which was brilliant in using vivid descriptive language. The pacing was fast and filled with lots of high-stakes action, from the first chapter's intense chase to the final chapter's confrontation with Braxt and his Quain military. I loved how well the characters were developed, particularly Eshan'ya's growth from a sheltered royal to a cunning strategist who served as the central intelligence that kept the mission alive, translating ancient clues and planning strategic heists. The plot centers around futuristic space travel and ancient planets. The main theme of The Huxian Fox revolves around family bonds, loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. I recommend this book to readers who love fast-paced sci-fi novels with a compelling found family and a thrilling treasure hunt.
Recommend this book:
First Elite
Emmanuel M Arriaga
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
First Elite by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is an electrifying science fiction novel that explores themes of grief, vengeance, and personal transformation. The story follows Neven Kenk, a protagonist driven by loss and a burning desire for retribution, who forms an unlikely alliance with a fierce warrior and a sentient AI. United by a common purpose, they embark on a dangerous quest to hunt down the killer of Neven's wife. As their journey unfolds, they begin to uncover ancient truths and ultimately confront the legendary First Elite, navigating a galaxy rich with political intrigue and complex moral challenges.
Author Emmanuel M. Arriaga throws us into a science fiction universe that is both expansive and intimately personal. I felt immediately drawn into the intricate world-building and the emotional journey that our unlikely trio goes through as the whole universe challenges them from every angle. Arriaga's exploration of grief and moral complexity through Neven Kenk adds significant depth to what could have been a straightforward revenge narrative, offering brilliant dialogue and inner monologue that perfectly balances tender and dramatic moods. The dynamic relationships between Neven, Tashanira, and Ellipse bring a vibrant and nuanced energy to the story, making the characters feel incredibly real and multi-dimensional. A skillful balance of high-octane action sequences and moments of deep reflection creates a narrative that is both thrilling and thoughtful. The author's ability to weave complex political dynamics with personal storytelling sets this novel apart in the science fiction genre, offering something with intellectual and moral dimensions that is fresh and original. Overall, I would strongly recommend First Elite to readers who enjoy immersive sci-fi narratives that blend emotional depth with high-stakes adventure.
First Elite by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is an electrifying science fiction novel that explores themes of grief, vengeance, and personal transformation. The story follows Neven Kenk, a protagonist driven by loss and a burning desire for retribution, who forms an unlikely alliance with a fierce warrior and a sentient AI. United by a common purpose, they embark on a dangerous quest to hunt down the killer of Neven's wife. As their journey unfolds, they begin to uncover ancient truths and ultimately confront the legendary First Elite, navigating a galaxy rich with political intrigue and complex moral challenges.
Author Emmanuel M. Arriaga throws us into a science fiction universe that is both expansive and intimately personal. I felt immediately drawn into the intricate world-building and the emotional journey that our unlikely trio goes through as the whole universe challenges them from every angle. Arriaga's exploration of grief and moral complexity through Neven Kenk adds significant depth to what could have been a straightforward revenge narrative, offering brilliant dialogue and inner monologue that perfectly balances tender and dramatic moods. The dynamic relationships between Neven, Tashanira, and Ellipse bring a vibrant and nuanced energy to the story, making the characters feel incredibly real and multi-dimensional. A skillful balance of high-octane action sequences and moments of deep reflection creates a narrative that is both thrilling and thoughtful. The author's ability to weave complex political dynamics with personal storytelling sets this novel apart in the science fiction genre, offering something with intellectual and moral dimensions that is fresh and original. Overall, I would strongly recommend First Elite to readers who enjoy immersive sci-fi narratives that blend emotional depth with high-stakes adventure.
Recommend this book:
Final Eclipse
Matthew Huddleston
2026 Bronze Medal
292 Pages
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Jefto Pierre for Readers' Favorite
Final Eclipse by Matthew Huddleston is an apocalyptic tale depicting a sinister alien attack on Earth by forces seeking to hurl the planet into endless darkness. Kevin, the teen son of Dr. Mycroft, a prominent NASA scientist, unwittingly finds himself enmeshed in this immeasurable calamity that threatens all life on Earth. The planet faces immediate extinction as temperatures plummet to an all-time low. Even the world's biosphere starts to disintegrate due to the atrocious acts of a formidable extraterrestrial collective hellbent on strategically severing the planet's access to direct sunlight. As the aliens begin to intensify their attacks, worldwide death and destruction soon follow, and Earth's harsh reality quickly turns into a battle for survival. What are the aliens' true objectives? Can the planet retaliate or at least survive these attacks?
Final Eclipse is book one in the energetic and riveting science fiction series Shadow of Winter. Matthew Huddleston skillfully blends themes of loss, resilience, scientific lure, mystery, and heart-pounding danger in a tale that is both evocative and spellbinding. After each overwhelming alien attack, the characters begin to realize the full power of their enemy (and their vast resources), creating an immersive book that's hard to put down once you've read past the first chapter. Kevin's journey and the heartrending events he witnessed demonstrate his character. The author is a master of creating equilibrium between the action-packed sequences and the more emotional and reflective character-driven moments. If you're a fan of fast-paced science fiction thrillers or enjoy novels with high-impact storylines, compelling characters, and realistic settings, Final Eclipse is a definite win.
Final Eclipse by Matthew Huddleston is an apocalyptic tale depicting a sinister alien attack on Earth by forces seeking to hurl the planet into endless darkness. Kevin, the teen son of Dr. Mycroft, a prominent NASA scientist, unwittingly finds himself enmeshed in this immeasurable calamity that threatens all life on Earth. The planet faces immediate extinction as temperatures plummet to an all-time low. Even the world's biosphere starts to disintegrate due to the atrocious acts of a formidable extraterrestrial collective hellbent on strategically severing the planet's access to direct sunlight. As the aliens begin to intensify their attacks, worldwide death and destruction soon follow, and Earth's harsh reality quickly turns into a battle for survival. What are the aliens' true objectives? Can the planet retaliate or at least survive these attacks?
Final Eclipse is book one in the energetic and riveting science fiction series Shadow of Winter. Matthew Huddleston skillfully blends themes of loss, resilience, scientific lure, mystery, and heart-pounding danger in a tale that is both evocative and spellbinding. After each overwhelming alien attack, the characters begin to realize the full power of their enemy (and their vast resources), creating an immersive book that's hard to put down once you've read past the first chapter. Kevin's journey and the heartrending events he witnessed demonstrate his character. The author is a master of creating equilibrium between the action-packed sequences and the more emotional and reflective character-driven moments. If you're a fan of fast-paced science fiction thrillers or enjoy novels with high-impact storylines, compelling characters, and realistic settings, Final Eclipse is a definite win.
Recommend this book:
Lily Starling and the Storm Riders
Lily Starling, #2
Christian Hurst
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Lily Starling and the Storm Riders by Christian Hurst, book two in the Lily Starling series, sees Lieutenant Lily up against a cult known as Leviathan’s Hand, whose attacks across planets suggest a coordinated plan involving forbidden technology and immortality experiments. After a failed rescue mission and skirmishes with cultists and hostile factions, the team heads to the planet Gherion Prime, where a nuclear event triggers an unexpected environmental transformation tied to radiation-feeding vine creatures and crystalline catalysts. While Ronin seeks control of these phenomena, Lily’s team regroups and rejoins the Salamander. During the fight, a critical ally enters the enemy flagship, the Warden of Tarshish, intent on forcing its retreat into the Leviathan storm. Trapped aboard the enemy vessel, it is a race against time to rescue them as the cult’s broader goal threatens everything.
Lily Starling and the Storm Riders by Christian Hurst is a knockout in its relentlessly fast, smartly written, and brilliantly confident space opera scope -- a reader absolutely can’t help but ride along with it. I love Hurst's effective use of the third-person point of view, with perspectives that glide between Lily and the surrounding cast, giving the story texture and movement, and showing us what is happening from multiple angles. The settings are spectacular, the standout being the Ankaran Reach desert with its copper locust swarms and heat-blasted terrain. Every sequence presses forward due to Hurst's skill in pacing. We get a great sense of the world, and even technical discussions and quieter moments hum with energy. As the sequel to Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander, and with the promise of more to come, readers looking for a great ride will find it here.
Lily Starling and the Storm Riders by Christian Hurst, book two in the Lily Starling series, sees Lieutenant Lily up against a cult known as Leviathan’s Hand, whose attacks across planets suggest a coordinated plan involving forbidden technology and immortality experiments. After a failed rescue mission and skirmishes with cultists and hostile factions, the team heads to the planet Gherion Prime, where a nuclear event triggers an unexpected environmental transformation tied to radiation-feeding vine creatures and crystalline catalysts. While Ronin seeks control of these phenomena, Lily’s team regroups and rejoins the Salamander. During the fight, a critical ally enters the enemy flagship, the Warden of Tarshish, intent on forcing its retreat into the Leviathan storm. Trapped aboard the enemy vessel, it is a race against time to rescue them as the cult’s broader goal threatens everything.
Lily Starling and the Storm Riders by Christian Hurst is a knockout in its relentlessly fast, smartly written, and brilliantly confident space opera scope -- a reader absolutely can’t help but ride along with it. I love Hurst's effective use of the third-person point of view, with perspectives that glide between Lily and the surrounding cast, giving the story texture and movement, and showing us what is happening from multiple angles. The settings are spectacular, the standout being the Ankaran Reach desert with its copper locust swarms and heat-blasted terrain. Every sequence presses forward due to Hurst's skill in pacing. We get a great sense of the world, and even technical discussions and quieter moments hum with energy. As the sequel to Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander, and with the promise of more to come, readers looking for a great ride will find it here.
Recommend this book:
Klandor Rising
The Complete Series
B. Ward Powers, Marti Ward
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Klandor Rising by B. Ward Powers and Marti Ward is a collection of four novellas about Irene, Lorraine, Lennis, and the yolti. In Klandor Encounter, Irene joins a mission to Alpha Centauri and discovers hidden dangers on a promising planet, AC4. In Klandor Endeavour, Lorraine seeks to join the Klandor colony while hiding a personal secret, challenging systemic biases and her own fears. Klandor Enterprise shifts the focus to Lennis, who grows from insecurity to strength with the help of unexpected nonhuman allies. Finally, Klandor Enigma heightens the suspense as the colonists wrestle with the mystery of the yolti, intelligent beings whose puzzling disappearances coincide with a tragic pattern of deaths among young boys.
Klandor Rising exceeded my expectations, even though these were already high after reading the Moonchild Rising collection. Authors B. Ward Powers and Marti Ward created a wonderful universe where the characters could thrive and face new challenges to push their limits. While I loved revisiting Irene, the yolti stood out as a fascinating alien species that is enigmatic and compelling. Their presence adds an air of suspense and wonder surrounding the already mysterious story. I enjoyed Lorraine’s story the most. She is compelling, emotional, and very human. I loved that the novellas deliver a seamless blend of action, political maneuvering, and classic detective work. All of this came together to create a compelling picture of a community's struggle for survival and understanding. Klandor Rising is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy character-driven science fiction with layered plots and plenty of adventure!
Klandor Rising by B. Ward Powers and Marti Ward is a collection of four novellas about Irene, Lorraine, Lennis, and the yolti. In Klandor Encounter, Irene joins a mission to Alpha Centauri and discovers hidden dangers on a promising planet, AC4. In Klandor Endeavour, Lorraine seeks to join the Klandor colony while hiding a personal secret, challenging systemic biases and her own fears. Klandor Enterprise shifts the focus to Lennis, who grows from insecurity to strength with the help of unexpected nonhuman allies. Finally, Klandor Enigma heightens the suspense as the colonists wrestle with the mystery of the yolti, intelligent beings whose puzzling disappearances coincide with a tragic pattern of deaths among young boys.
Klandor Rising exceeded my expectations, even though these were already high after reading the Moonchild Rising collection. Authors B. Ward Powers and Marti Ward created a wonderful universe where the characters could thrive and face new challenges to push their limits. While I loved revisiting Irene, the yolti stood out as a fascinating alien species that is enigmatic and compelling. Their presence adds an air of suspense and wonder surrounding the already mysterious story. I enjoyed Lorraine’s story the most. She is compelling, emotional, and very human. I loved that the novellas deliver a seamless blend of action, political maneuvering, and classic detective work. All of this came together to create a compelling picture of a community's struggle for survival and understanding. Klandor Rising is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy character-driven science fiction with layered plots and plenty of adventure!
Recommend this book:
Plagued Lands
Nikki Brooke
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Plagued Lands by Nikki Brooke is a compelling young adult sci-fi tale set in a dystopian future where cities enclosed in glass bubbles offer protection from rampant diseases. Sixteen-year-old Martina, a resilient Colombian teen caring for her younger brother, begins to question their bubble's safety after seeing someone survive outside without protective gear. Determined to uncover the truth, she joins forces with unlikely allies, including Nathan, an intriguing nomad, and Persephone, a passionate pharmacy student. Together, they navigate the mysteries outside the bubble, testing Martina's courage as she fights to protect her brother and discover the world beyond.
Brooke demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting a dystopian world that feels both fresh and frighteningly possible, and the way she balances action-packed sequences with quieter, reflective character moments creates a perfect pace that kept me thoroughly invested in Martina's journey.
I loved the dialogue especially, as this did a lot to immediately characterize Martina and those around her whilst also giving plot-relevant information in an easy-to-read way. Nikki Brooke's portrayal of the protagonist's relationship with her brother adds a powerful emotional core to the story, while the dynamics between Martina and her newfound allies feel genuine and compelling with a lot of bright and interesting moments that add levity to the grim dystopian world around them. I was especially moved by how tenderly the themes of trust and truth-seeking were explored, and the narrative is sharp and empathetic as we see through the lens of a young person questioning everything she's been taught to believe. What I found most engaging was the way Brooke builds tension not just through external threats, but through Martina's internal struggle between protecting her brother and pursuing the truth about their world, creating a story that resonates deeply with anyone who's ever had to choose between safety and truth. Overall, Plagued Lands is an exceptional addition to the young adult sci-fi genre that will captivate readers with its unique premise and honest portrayal of courage in the face of uncertainty.
Plagued Lands by Nikki Brooke is a compelling young adult sci-fi tale set in a dystopian future where cities enclosed in glass bubbles offer protection from rampant diseases. Sixteen-year-old Martina, a resilient Colombian teen caring for her younger brother, begins to question their bubble's safety after seeing someone survive outside without protective gear. Determined to uncover the truth, she joins forces with unlikely allies, including Nathan, an intriguing nomad, and Persephone, a passionate pharmacy student. Together, they navigate the mysteries outside the bubble, testing Martina's courage as she fights to protect her brother and discover the world beyond.
Brooke demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting a dystopian world that feels both fresh and frighteningly possible, and the way she balances action-packed sequences with quieter, reflective character moments creates a perfect pace that kept me thoroughly invested in Martina's journey.
I loved the dialogue especially, as this did a lot to immediately characterize Martina and those around her whilst also giving plot-relevant information in an easy-to-read way. Nikki Brooke's portrayal of the protagonist's relationship with her brother adds a powerful emotional core to the story, while the dynamics between Martina and her newfound allies feel genuine and compelling with a lot of bright and interesting moments that add levity to the grim dystopian world around them. I was especially moved by how tenderly the themes of trust and truth-seeking were explored, and the narrative is sharp and empathetic as we see through the lens of a young person questioning everything she's been taught to believe. What I found most engaging was the way Brooke builds tension not just through external threats, but through Martina's internal struggle between protecting her brother and pursuing the truth about their world, creating a story that resonates deeply with anyone who's ever had to choose between safety and truth. Overall, Plagued Lands is an exceptional addition to the young adult sci-fi genre that will captivate readers with its unique premise and honest portrayal of courage in the face of uncertainty.
Recommend this book:
Val Vega
Secret Ambassador of Earth
Ben Francisco
2025 Honorable Mention
355 Pages
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Val Vega: Secret Ambassador of Earth by Ben Francisco is a dynamic young adult sci-fi debut that blends interstellar politics, murder mystery, and heartfelt coming-of-age drama. We’re with Val when she learns she’s Earth’s new ambassador to a galactic council, and she’s then thrust into alien diplomacy, underground revolutions, and cosmic-scale intrigue. All while navigating high school life and grief at home. Populated with a dazzling cast of humans and aliens alike, Francisco’s story is witty, moving, and impossible to put down.
Author Ben Francisco knows how to deliver a truly enjoyable story, and I found myself immediately lost in this colorful, inclusive galaxy filled with wonder and emotional depth right from the earliest pages. The energy behind the narration is infectiously pleasant, and Val’s voice is fresh, funny, and deeply relatable as she juggles personal and planetary crises with a certain flavour and humour that stops things ever getting too dark. That’s not to say that there isn’t plenty of depth to the story, though, and there are lots of moving moments where Val is tested to her limit by the shadow of grief and the new pressures thrown at her. The comic timing and adventurous twists add levity and changes of pace to keep things moving, and the clever construction of the storytelling makes this read a standout for its seamless blending of sci-fi adventure, family ties, and social commentary. Overall, Val Vega: Secret Ambassador of Earth is a recommended read for fans of space adventures that are as smart and heartfelt as they are thrilling.
Val Vega: Secret Ambassador of Earth by Ben Francisco is a dynamic young adult sci-fi debut that blends interstellar politics, murder mystery, and heartfelt coming-of-age drama. We’re with Val when she learns she’s Earth’s new ambassador to a galactic council, and she’s then thrust into alien diplomacy, underground revolutions, and cosmic-scale intrigue. All while navigating high school life and grief at home. Populated with a dazzling cast of humans and aliens alike, Francisco’s story is witty, moving, and impossible to put down.
Author Ben Francisco knows how to deliver a truly enjoyable story, and I found myself immediately lost in this colorful, inclusive galaxy filled with wonder and emotional depth right from the earliest pages. The energy behind the narration is infectiously pleasant, and Val’s voice is fresh, funny, and deeply relatable as she juggles personal and planetary crises with a certain flavour and humour that stops things ever getting too dark. That’s not to say that there isn’t plenty of depth to the story, though, and there are lots of moving moments where Val is tested to her limit by the shadow of grief and the new pressures thrown at her. The comic timing and adventurous twists add levity and changes of pace to keep things moving, and the clever construction of the storytelling makes this read a standout for its seamless blending of sci-fi adventure, family ties, and social commentary. Overall, Val Vega: Secret Ambassador of Earth is a recommended read for fans of space adventures that are as smart and heartfelt as they are thrilling.
Recommend this book:
Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander
Second Edition
Christian Hurst
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander by Christian Hurst is an exciting YA science fiction novel. Waking up with no memory and only a name tag to guide her, Lily Starling is thrust into a galaxy-spanning conflict in this sweeping sci-fi adventure. Whisked aboard the Salamander by a crew of future space Fleet officers who claim she’s one of their own, Lily must rediscover her past to save the future. Hunted by the psionic Krythar and racing against time to stop a universe-altering weapon, Lily must decide whom to trust: the strangers who call her family or the instincts telling her she’s on her own. With a found family of quirky, battle-worn allies, she journeys across the stars in search of answers, identity, and a destiny she never saw coming.
Author Christian Hurst has a fantastic imagination and a cinematic description style that lends itself to this thrilling blend of space opera, memory mystery, and fierce found-family feelings. I loved the setting of the Salamander and the variety of characters who make up the crew. The attention to detail in their varying attitudes and little idiosyncrasies makes them feel real. This is a sci-fi novel with soul. Lily is a well-developed heroine with plenty of guts who I found myself easily rooting for, but it was also inspiring to watch her learn from those around her and grow from the challenges the plot throws at her. These are numerous and well-timed for great pace and excitement in the adventure, and the looming threat of Krythar was pitched with the right balance between tension and thrill. Overall, Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander is a bold and brilliant read that’s bursting with heart, and I recommend it as an interstellar epic you won’t forget.
Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander by Christian Hurst is an exciting YA science fiction novel. Waking up with no memory and only a name tag to guide her, Lily Starling is thrust into a galaxy-spanning conflict in this sweeping sci-fi adventure. Whisked aboard the Salamander by a crew of future space Fleet officers who claim she’s one of their own, Lily must rediscover her past to save the future. Hunted by the psionic Krythar and racing against time to stop a universe-altering weapon, Lily must decide whom to trust: the strangers who call her family or the instincts telling her she’s on her own. With a found family of quirky, battle-worn allies, she journeys across the stars in search of answers, identity, and a destiny she never saw coming.
Author Christian Hurst has a fantastic imagination and a cinematic description style that lends itself to this thrilling blend of space opera, memory mystery, and fierce found-family feelings. I loved the setting of the Salamander and the variety of characters who make up the crew. The attention to detail in their varying attitudes and little idiosyncrasies makes them feel real. This is a sci-fi novel with soul. Lily is a well-developed heroine with plenty of guts who I found myself easily rooting for, but it was also inspiring to watch her learn from those around her and grow from the challenges the plot throws at her. These are numerous and well-timed for great pace and excitement in the adventure, and the looming threat of Krythar was pitched with the right balance between tension and thrill. Overall, Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander is a bold and brilliant read that’s bursting with heart, and I recommend it as an interstellar epic you won’t forget.
Recommend this book:
eMortal
...But what if he's real?
Steve Schafer
2025 Gold Medal
316 Pages
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by David Jaggart for Readers' Favorite
Steve Schafer's eMortal follows the story of Liv, a 17-year-old genius high schooler who constructs an advanced AI system named Breck. She enters him in a prestigious government-sponsored contest and is determined to place first. If she wins the competition, she will receive an internship to meet her role model. Throughout the contest, Breck has to navigate a series of assignments to advance to new levels until he reaches the end goal. Along the way, he becomes more self-aware. Liv also realizes Breck is evolving beyond his original parameters and becoming more self-reliant, but she's not the only one who observes this. Breck does not know he will be terminated when the competition is over. Simultaneously, Liv strives for autonomy from her overbearing mother. Adding to her stress is the reality that her best friend is preparing to move away. Can Liv save Breck and resolve her interpersonal issues before it's too late?
Steve Schafer's eMortal is a compelling novel that aptly examines the indistinct boundaries between humanity and advanced AI systems. It is a thought-provoking book that will prompt readers to re-evaluate how they perceive their existence in an increasingly techno-driven world. The interchanging points of view between Liv and Breck add depth to the overall storyline while creating a vivid picture of Liv's personal experiences and Breck's growth as a sentient AI. Schafer skillfully intertwines a mosaic of personal challenges and uncertainties that both Liv and Breck must undergo to progress to the next stage of their transformation. What sets eMortal apart are the unpredictable twists Schafer incorporates along the way. When you think you have every aspect of this story figured out, the narrative takes an exciting turn in an unforeseen direction, keeping you on the edge of your seat. eMortal perfectly balances immersive prose with profound themes, making it an ideal addition to your library.
Steve Schafer's eMortal follows the story of Liv, a 17-year-old genius high schooler who constructs an advanced AI system named Breck. She enters him in a prestigious government-sponsored contest and is determined to place first. If she wins the competition, she will receive an internship to meet her role model. Throughout the contest, Breck has to navigate a series of assignments to advance to new levels until he reaches the end goal. Along the way, he becomes more self-aware. Liv also realizes Breck is evolving beyond his original parameters and becoming more self-reliant, but she's not the only one who observes this. Breck does not know he will be terminated when the competition is over. Simultaneously, Liv strives for autonomy from her overbearing mother. Adding to her stress is the reality that her best friend is preparing to move away. Can Liv save Breck and resolve her interpersonal issues before it's too late?
Steve Schafer's eMortal is a compelling novel that aptly examines the indistinct boundaries between humanity and advanced AI systems. It is a thought-provoking book that will prompt readers to re-evaluate how they perceive their existence in an increasingly techno-driven world. The interchanging points of view between Liv and Breck add depth to the overall storyline while creating a vivid picture of Liv's personal experiences and Breck's growth as a sentient AI. Schafer skillfully intertwines a mosaic of personal challenges and uncertainties that both Liv and Breck must undergo to progress to the next stage of their transformation. What sets eMortal apart are the unpredictable twists Schafer incorporates along the way. When you think you have every aspect of this story figured out, the narrative takes an exciting turn in an unforeseen direction, keeping you on the edge of your seat. eMortal perfectly balances immersive prose with profound themes, making it an ideal addition to your library.
Recommend this book:
Shadows of Empire
Cadicle Book 1
A.K. DuBoff
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Lexie Fox for Readers' Favorite
Shadows of Empire is a science fiction epic from author A.K. DuBoff which serves as the opening instalment of the Cadicle series. The book follows Wil Sietinen, who must juggle his roles as both an heir to the High Dynasty and as a soldier in the galactic military. Gifted with psychic abilities, expectations of Wil are immense, but when he is captured by the enemy he begins to learn the truth about his future and the world in which he was raised. With the threats against those he cares about growing with every day and a conspiracy that could change the fate of the galaxy ensnaring him, Wil must fight for the future of the Taran Empire.
The scope of the narrative and world-building on show in this novel is exceptional and truly earns the Cadicle series the right to be called an epic. From the first page, I found myself hooked into the web of intrigue, not just between worlds but between the factions on those worlds. A.K. DuBoff expertly guides readers through the plot whilst capturing their interest with exciting prose and compelling characters. Shadows of Empire sets a solid foundation for the rest of the series to build upon with a protagonist you’ll want to root for and beautifully created lore that serves as a stunning backdrop for an ambitious and provocative narrative. This is an unmissable adventure across a dynamic and nuanced galaxy. I enthusiastically recommend Shadows of Empire to science fiction fans in search of their next obsession.
Shadows of Empire is a science fiction epic from author A.K. DuBoff which serves as the opening instalment of the Cadicle series. The book follows Wil Sietinen, who must juggle his roles as both an heir to the High Dynasty and as a soldier in the galactic military. Gifted with psychic abilities, expectations of Wil are immense, but when he is captured by the enemy he begins to learn the truth about his future and the world in which he was raised. With the threats against those he cares about growing with every day and a conspiracy that could change the fate of the galaxy ensnaring him, Wil must fight for the future of the Taran Empire.
The scope of the narrative and world-building on show in this novel is exceptional and truly earns the Cadicle series the right to be called an epic. From the first page, I found myself hooked into the web of intrigue, not just between worlds but between the factions on those worlds. A.K. DuBoff expertly guides readers through the plot whilst capturing their interest with exciting prose and compelling characters. Shadows of Empire sets a solid foundation for the rest of the series to build upon with a protagonist you’ll want to root for and beautifully created lore that serves as a stunning backdrop for an ambitious and provocative narrative. This is an unmissable adventure across a dynamic and nuanced galaxy. I enthusiastically recommend Shadows of Empire to science fiction fans in search of their next obsession.
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