Review: Beneath False Stars (Project Integration Book 1) by S.D. Grimm

About the Book

What they don’t see will hurt them.

The day to open the centuries-old Dome gates and reintegrate genetically engineered people back into normal society has arrived. There's one caveat—their powers must remain suppressed.

Amidst this Project Integration Initiative, hacker Ryleigh Stevens has her whole life planned out. The plan? Prevent a second Universal Tech War in two simple steps. First, help Project Integration Phase One succeed—but not for the reason she pretends. Next, infiltrate the rebellion and sabotage Phase Two—the part that would grant people unbridled access to their superhuman abilities.

Too bad the one person who can make her plan reality is her sworn enemy. He’s dangerous. He’s Powered. And he’s the reason her brother is dead. Faced with an impossible choice, Ryleigh must decide how to do what’s right for the good of all humanity, even if it means sacrificing everything she holds dear—again.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This is science fiction at its finest! I absolutely loved it! The world-building was great! I loved discovering this high-tech, futuristic world. It was fascinating seeing all the new tech. (A little scary too.) But I felt completely immersed in the story.

Ryleigh was a great character. She was relatable and realistic in her reactions. She was a little impulsive at times, which could lead to some trouble. But there was a lot riding on Project Integration, and you could tell how much it meant to her.

Knox was a really interesting and complex character, and I really enjoyed getting to know him better.

One of my favorite aspects of this book was seeing all the strong friendships. I loved watching the characters bond and grow together.

This high-stakes sci-fi story exceeded all expectations. It's full of intrigue and surprising twists and revelations I never saw coming. I want to say more, but I don't want to spoil anything. If you're a fan of this genre, don't hesitate to grab a copy of this book. Run and get it! You'll love it! I can't wait for book two!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Hybrid (The Hybrid Series Book 2) by Candace Kade

About the Book

Lee Urban's search for truth could destroy everything.

After narrowly surviving several attempts on her life, Lee Urban retreats into hiding, seeking refuge with her family for the Lunar New Year. But the relaxing holiday turns into a heist when someone crashes the party with intel on the hybrid’s identity.

Driven by desperation, Urban accepts a position within the elite Dragons AI team, a high-stakes gamble that will propel her into the heart of the turbulent West. As she follows the elusive clues to the hybrid, the journey takes her closer to uncovering the truths about her own origins and the odd circumstances surrounding her adoption.

Tensions between the Enhanced and Naturals grow increasingly violent, and the Western Federation teeters on the brink of civil war. Urban's choices threaten to tear her family apart, and the secrets she unearths just might shatter the delicate balance of society.

Amazon / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I loved this heart-pounding sci-fi thrill ride! It was exciting, fast-paced, and impossible to put down.

It’s been a while since I read the first book, so I was worried it might take a little bit to get back into this world. I shouldn’t have worried. I was able to dive right back in with no problem.

The worldbuilding is stunning! Intricate and detailed, yet never overwhelming. Futuristic yet not out of the realm of possibility. The tech and gadgets were really interesting! Just as I thought with the first book, this is one of the most impressive and unique stories I’ve had the pleasure of reading.

The second half of the book takes Urban to the Western Federation. It was really interesting to see how it differed from the Asian Federation.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys exciting, clean young adult science fiction. Be sure to start with book one, though. This is not a standalone. I can't wait for the next book!

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Augmented (The Hybrid Series Book 3) by Candace Kade

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Augmented (The Hybrid Series Book 3) by Candace Kade releasing September 16. I just finished reading Hybrid, the second book in the series, and am so excited for this one!

About the Book

Lee Urban must win to survive.

After being sentenced to the banned list, half of the Asian Federation believes Lee Urban is a ticking time bomb that could end the world as they know it. They’re willing to do anything to erase her existence and silence her voice before she can take a stand.

There’s only one way to fight back: enroll in the Race to the Clouds. Winning the competition would garner global media attention and give Urban the coverage she needs to dismantle the enhancement programs. Unfortunately, it also happens to be the deadliest event of the year.

With less time to train than her rivals, Urban and her team must find a way to best the competition. But as enemies close in, riots erupt, and her homeland teeters on the brink of civil war, one thing is certain—she’s running out of time. Not just for herself, but for every Natural she represents.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Hybrid (The Hybrid Series Book 2) by Candace Kade

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Hybrid (The Hybrid Series Book 2) by Candace Kade. I'm really enjoying it so far! 

About the Book

Lee Urban's search for truth could destroy everything.

After narrowly surviving several attempts on her life, Lee Urban retreats into hiding, seeking refuge with her family for the Lunar New Year. But the relaxing holiday turns into a heist when someone crashes the party with intel on the hybrid’s identity.

Driven by desperation, Urban accepts a position within the elite Dragons AI team, a high-stakes gamble that will propel her into the heart of the turbulent West. As she follows the elusive clues to the hybrid, the journey takes her closer to uncovering the truths about her own origins and the odd circumstances surrounding her adoption.

Tensions between the Enhanced and Naturals grow increasingly violent, and the Western Federation teeters on the brink of civil war. Urban's choices threaten to tear her family apart, and the secrets she unearths just might shatter the delicate balance of society.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Urban aimed straight for the dragon. The creature's bulbous eyes and enormous fangs grew larger as she pulled hard on the throttle of her motorcycle.

Friday 56

"We can't always choose our family." Uncle Chang nodded at Lucas, who had collapsed in a fit of hysterical laughter on stage. "But we can choose to make the most of the family we have."

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Beneath False Stars (Project Integration Book 1) by S.D. Grimm

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Beneath False Stars (Project Integration Book 1) by S.D. Grimm releasing September 9. 

About the Book

What they don’t see will hurt them.

The day to open the centuries-old Dome gates and reintegrate genetically engineered people back into normal society has arrived. There's one caveat—their powers must remain suppressed.

Amidst this Project Integration Initiative, hacker Ryleigh Stevens has her whole life planned out. The plan? Prevent a second Universal Tech War in two simple steps. First, help Project Integration Phase One succeed—but not for the reason she pretends. Next, infiltrate the rebellion and sabotage Phase Two—the part that would grant people unbridled access to their superhuman abilities.

Too bad the one person who can make her plan reality is her sworn enemy. He’s dangerous. He’s Powered. And he’s the reason her brother is dead. Faced with an impossible choice, Ryleigh must decide how to do what’s right for the good of all humanity, even if it means sacrificing everything she holds dear—again.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid Book 2) by Lyndsey Lewellen

About the Book

Brave the Plex. Unleash the stone. Embrace your destiny.

Freshly freed from an earth-dwelling monster, Juniper Conway is stuck with a promise she never intended to make. But if rescuing Plex City from a deadly nano drug is what she vowed, it’s what she’ll do.

Miles of wasteland stretch between Juniper and the domed city. In the Texas Outer Grid, following a tribe of whalers seems to be her best bet at surviving the chaotic storms. But when the nomadic tribes prove just as dangerous as the Grid itself, Juniper realizes her streak of bad luck is far from over.

Only her shipping crew friends can help her through the waste and into the Plex. When the crier stone guiding her mission only shows her fragmented steps, Juniper will need more than the stone around her neck and a halfhearted promise to make it out alive.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

What an epic sequel to The Chaos Grid! This high-stakes story exceeded all my expectations! I was hooked from the very first sentence and flew through the pages. The lightning-fast pace had me catching my breath as I tried to keep up!

The worldbuilding in this series is fantastic! As a lifelong Texas native, it’s been really interesting to see this possible future! Slightly terrifying too, lol!

I loved how, despite all the dangerous and crazy things Juna encountered, she still trusted God and His plans. She might not have understood why He was calling her to do it, but she knew there was a purpose to it all. I absolutely loved seeing that kind of strong faith!

This is one of the most imaginative dystopias that I’ve read. If you’re a fan of this genre, pick up a copy of this series! You won’t be disappointed. Be sure to start with book one.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Warsafe by Lauren Smyth

About the Book

Play. Win. Survive.

There’s one building on her island that Halley has never visited: the Mercenary House. Perched atop a mountain, surrounded by unnaturally evergreen foliage, the House is rumored to be a breeding ground for criminals. Mercenaries are liars, cheats, spies . . . and maybe, depending on who you ask, killers.

At the Warsafe headquarters in Seattle, Roscoe is beta testing the company’s new video game. It’s her job to track down glitches—but something is different about this one. Lurking behind the lines of malfunctioning code is a secret that threatens to drag her deeper into the game, forcing her to put her life on the line if she ever wants to come home.

Worlds collide as Roscoe teams up with Halley to uncover the island’s secret and expose Warsafe’s designs. But some mysteries are better left unsolved. As traitor after so-called traitor is revealed to be on their side, they begin to wonder: Could Warsafe’s mission be critical enough to justify its cruelty?

Amazon / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Y'all! This book was fantastic! Where do I even begin? It's a thrill ride from start to finish. We're thrown right into the story, and I was instantly intrigued and invested. I was glued to the pages and reading as fast as I could. I didn't want to put the book down for anything, but when I inevitably had to, it was constantly on my mind.

The world-building was great! Very believable! It was so immersive, like I could just step through the pages and enter the world myself.

There are several different POVs. When there are multiple perspectives like that, I'm usually drawn to one more so than the others, but I enjoyed them all equally here. I really liked the characters and enjoyed getting to know them and seeing things through their unique viewpoints.

I'm a big gamer, so all of the video game stuff was really interesting to me! I was definitely shocked by some of the turn of events. It kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat.

This was an incredibly compelling and unputdownable read! I loved it and highly recommend it! Smyth is a very talented author, and I'm looking forward to whatever she writes next.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Warsafe by Lauren Smyth

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Warsafe by Lauren Smyth. I'm almost halfway done with my ARC and am loving it! 

About the Book

Play. Win. Survive.

There’s one building on her island that Halley has never visited: the Mercenary House. Perched atop a mountain, surrounded by unnaturally evergreen foliage, the House is rumored to be a breeding ground for criminals. Mercenaries are liars, cheats, spies . . . and maybe, depending on who you ask, killers.

At the Warsafe headquarters in Seattle, Roscoe is beta testing the company’s new video game. It’s her job to track down glitches—but something is different about this one. Lurking behind the lines of malfunctioning code is a secret that threatens to drag her deeper into the game, forcing her to put her life on the line if she ever wants to come home.

Worlds collide as Roscoe teams up with Halley to uncover the island’s secret and expose Warsafe’s designs. But some mysteries are better left unsolved. As traitor after so-called traitor is revealed to be on their side, they begin to wonder: Could Warsafe’s mission be critical enough to justify its cruelty?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

I'd seen her name at the bottom of the list that morning. I remembered thinking it was a miracle she hadn't been killed yet. But I was more interested in the names at the top of the list - those who still had a fighting chance to win the game - and I soon forgot about her. It's hard to worry about mortality when you're scrubbing burnt egg off a saucepan.

Friday 56

"You were amazing," Roscoe blurted. "You've got the system figured out. I thought this was one of those games where you just charge in and shoot on sight, but you made it look so much easier than that."

What have you been reading lately?

Review: All the Wild Hearts (Stardust Hearts #1): A Red Riding Hood Retelling by J.M. Hackman

About the Book

Who’s afraid of the big bad businessman?
Everyone.

On the snowy planet of Amaris, Avarill Engle makes deliveries for her grandmother and the residents of Skift, while avoiding unwanted advances from the gray tycoon Wolfgang Vujic. When the crooked CEO buys the mortgage to her grandmother’s neo-res, the only way to keep their home is to go to work—for him.

With every passing day, Avarill grows more desperate and afraid. Blaiz Weylin, her new friend and expert codestitcher, creates a plan to destroy Vujic, and Avarill eagerly joins the sting operation. But Blaiz’s past entwines with Vujic in ways he can’t confess, even as his feelings for Avarill deepen. When his secret comes to light, Avarill must make a choice: trust in the man who could break her heart or fight to free herself from Vujic’s iron grasp. With one wrong move, her freedom will become a distant memory. Time is running out, and the wolf is closing in.

For fans of The Lunar Chronicles and the Ravenspire series, this fantasy retelling of Red Riding Hood is a stand-alone and blends charming romance, futuristic tech, and high-stakes adventure into a mythical tale of survival and redemption. Don’t miss out on this must-read novella—buy now!

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

What a clever sci-fi retelling of Little Red Riding Hood! I loved it! I was pulled right into the story. The worldbuilding was great. Vivid and detailed but never overwhelming.

Ava was endearing and easy to like. I thought her special ability was really interesting. I loved seeing the special and loving bond she had with her grandma. I also really liked her pet, Mo.

I didn’t know what to think of Blaiz at first, but he was very intriguing. I enjoyed getting to know him, his motives, and his background.

I really, really, really didn’t like Vujic. What a horrible man! I was so hoping he’d get his comeuppance!

I’m glad this is the start of a new series! I’m very eager for more stories set in this world! I can’t wait!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Master of Memories by Lani Forbes

About the Book

In a grim not-so-distant future where debt and drugs run rampant, Margot Azenari studies memory editing alongside the offspring of the rich and famous. She dreams of erasing the bad memories from her childhood-of her father's involvement with the Vibora drug cartel and her mother's struggle with addiction. Margot makes plans to escape the pain of her past, but her plans go awry when her mentor, Dr. Xander, asks for her help with a top-secret project.

Margot has always admired her classmate Isaac, a senator's son, who once saved her from a mean prank. She's shocked to find him in Dr. Xander's office unconscious and bruised after a recent plane crash. Just as Margot and Dr. Xander finish erasing dangerous memories from Isaac's brain, Dr. Xander gives Margot an urgent mission-she alone must return the memories that they've removed from Isaac, or the lives of thousands of people will be in jeopardy. Their conversation is cut short as two Vibora drug cartel goons break in. Margot hides as they shoot Dr. Xander.

Margot makes contact with Isaac, and the two agree to try to put the memories back. Slowly, they piece together a connection between the cartel and the US government...and how Isaac tried to discover the truth. Battling her own growing romantic feelings for Isaac, Margot finds herself stuck in the middle of a government conspiracy where Isaac's father is the main suspect. As they race to reinsert the memories, they find themselves walking a treacherous line, not knowing who they can trust.

Or if they can trust each other.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Quill & Flame Publishing / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

“We can’t change yesterday, and we have no idea what tomorrow will ask of us. All we have is now, and now is everything.”

What a stunning story! Thought-provoking and incredibly relevant to our time right now, I could hardly put it down. I finished it in record time.

I was transported inside the pages of this vibrant and dangerous world. The worldbuilding was excellent, and the memory editing technology was fascinating and slightly scary.

I liked Margot right from the start. I admired how resilient and kind she was despite all the things she had gone through. I loved watching her journey and her character growth.

I appreciated the lighter moments amidst the serious subject matter. The fake dating angle was a lot of fun.

This book has left a lasting impression on me. I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time to come. I loved that even though this book deals with some hard and serious topics, it also showed that there is light and hope too. I can’t recommend it highly enough. I loved it.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Master of Memories by Lani Forbes

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Master of Memories by Lani Forbes. I'm really enjoying it so far.

About the Book

In a grim not-so-distant future where debt and drugs run rampant, Margot Azenari studies memory editing alongside the offspring of the rich and famous. She dreams of erasing the bad memories from her childhood-of her father's involvement with the Vibora drug cartel and her mother's struggle with addiction. Margot makes plans to escape the pain of her past, but her plans go awry when her mentor, Dr. Xander, asks for her help with a top-secret project.

Margot has always admired her classmate Isaac, a senator's son, who once saved her from a mean prank. She's shocked to find him in Dr. Xander's office unconscious and bruised after a recent plane crash. Just as Margot and Dr. Xander finish erasing dangerous memories from Isaac's brain, Dr. Xander gives Margot an urgent mission-she alone must return the memories that they've removed from Isaac, or the lives of thousands of people will be in jeopardy. Their conversation is cut short as two Vibora drug cartel goons break in. Margot hides as they shoot Dr. Xander.

Margot makes contact with Isaac, and the two agree to try to put the memories back. Slowly, they piece together a connection between the cartel and the US government...and how Isaac tried to discover the truth. Battling her own growing romantic feelings for Isaac, Margot finds herself stuck in the middle of a government conspiracy where Isaac's father is the main suspect. As they race to reinsert the memories, they find themselves walking a treacherous line, not knowing who they can trust.

Or if they can trust each other.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

November 2096,

Washington, D.C.

They say that memories make us who we are, and if that's true, I'm definitely screwed. I've spent most of my life running from a past that should sentence me to a life like my mother's. But our pasts no longer have to dictate our futures, not when we have the technology to alter them.

Friday 56

I pretend to focus on my work, but his words swirl around in my head. A larger, scarier monster than even my memories threatens to rip its way through my chest. My shoulders almost shake with the effort of keeping it restrained, of holding back the intensity of whatever it is I'm feeling.

What have you been reading lately?

Cover Reveal: Singularity by Shannon McDermott

I'm so excited to join in the cover reveal for Singularity by Shannon McDermott releasing from Enclave Publishing in October 2025. This is the second book in The Eternities Duology (science fiction) and is available to preorder in hardcover today! How stunning is it?! It's one of my favorite covers in recent memory. Epic!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Machines in rebellion, humanity on the brink...

Lila Stanislaw, a freelance analyst with a roster of foreign clients, is summoned by the U.S. government to hunt down a mysterious threat. She joins a team of strangers with pasts as colorful as her own. The mission spirals when they discover that the AI created to run the new colony on Mars has gone rogue on Earth. As the conflict mounts to war, Speaker of the House Manasseh Cruz joins the fight with an implacable will to destroy the enemy. But the team, racing to find any vulnerability, must first confront the question of what the AI truly is.

As robots stalk the landscape and toxins poison the air, Lila is certain that the AI must be completely destroyed for the good of humanity. But she will find that not all humans, or even all of her teammates, agree.

PREORDER:

AMAZON: https://amzn.to/4hQls5D
ENCLAVE PUBLISHING STORE: https://www.enclavepublishingstore.com/singularity-hb

Review: Andromache by L.E. Richmond

About the Book
Some lives are valuable. But none are sacred.

The nation once known as the United States of America has fallen. On the West Coast, five cities collectively known as Cinq battle rampant poverty and disease. On the East Coast, the wealthy, technologically-advanced Federation’s human population is nearly extinct. A treaty between the two nations guarantees Western brides in exchange for Eastern technology.

When Andromache Kanoska is chosen to go East to wed a nobleman and bear his children, her greatest fear is that her infertility will be discovered. Her only chance of protection is to marry the soon-to-be Elector, Denzel Xavier.

While competing in challenges designed to determine if she is worthy to become the next Eastern Consort, Andromache learns a terrible secret. But the people in power are those responsible. And the only person able to make a difference is a man whom she is unsure whether to trust.

Will she risk exposure to protect others whose lives are regarded as expendable? Or will she choose to save herself at any cost?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Y'all! I loved this book! I'm a big fan of dystopias, and this is one of the best I've read. It's reminiscent of some of the greats, yet unique in its own way. It's fast-paced, exciting, and impossible to put down.

This is not a light read. It deals with some serious subjects. There were times when it almost made me cry. And yet, it was also so full of hope. It had such a great message. And I know I'll be thinking about it for a long time to come.

This book is full of great characters. I admired Andi's bravery and strength. The fact that she never gave up and was always looking out for others was very inspiring. I also really liked Heath, Bella, and Xavier.

The worldbuilding was excellent. Detailed and immersive, yet never overwhelming.

I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to these characters, so the ending felt a little abrupt, but other than that, this was an absolutely stellar read! It was exciting, thought-provoking, impactful, and inspiring. This book would be perfect for fans of The Selection, Hunger Games, and Matched.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

A couple of my favorite quotes: “Every life is precious. And if we say otherwise, we are using the exact same logic as the people who believe that you and I don’t deserve the air we breathe.” 

"If we are the handiwork of some Cosmic Artist, are we not all worthwhile because we bear His fingerprints?"

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid #2) by Lyndsey Lewellen

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid #2) by Lyndsey Lewellen releasing July 8. I loved the first book, The Chaos Grid, so I was ecstatic when I heard that there was gonna be a sequel! 

About the Book

Brave the Plex. Unleash the stone. Embrace your destiny.

Freshly freed from an earth-dwelling monster, Juniper Conway is stuck with a promise she never intended to make. But if rescuing Plex City from a deadly nano drug is what she vowed, it’s what she’ll do.

Miles of wasteland stretch between Juniper and the domed city. In the Texas Outer Grid, following a tribe of whalers seems to be her best bet at surviving the chaotic storms. But when the nomadic tribes prove just as dangerous as the Grid itself, Juniper realizes her streak of bad luck is far from over.

Only her shipping crew friends can help her through the waste and into the Plex. When the crier stone guiding her mission only shows her fragmented steps, Juniper will need more than the stone around her neck and a halfhearted promise to make it out alive.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

About the Book

The fight for the space mission begins in his homeworld.

Brock Rivers never wanted to be a repairman on Mars. Years ago, he failed to protect his family, and now he labors across a frontier planet to keep his children alive and escape CAUSE. But the spacefaring humanist regime is taking over Martian colonies, forcing all to join the secular state.

Back in Brock’s homeworld, his people summon him to fulfill old hopes with a new dream. After decades of cultural isolation, they plan to restore missions for the 22nd century, voyaging beyond Earth to share the gospel in space. Brock must find a ship and recruit a team of misfit believers. They expect opposition from the formidable CAUSE, but not from a more deceptive enemy.

One adversary attacks from the shadows to destroy the faithful. Others unify to oppose the project. Brock and his family must fight to resist these enemies of the space mission or else return to exile forever.

Amazon / Goodreads / Enclave Publishing / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

Y’all! This book was fantastic! It’s one of the best science fiction books that I’ve read. As soon as I finished it, I wanted to start it all over again.

The worldbuilding was excellent. I could see something similar actually happening in the future. It was a very immersive read. I felt like I was right there beside these characters.

I loved that this book featured a married couple. I liked Brock and Alicia a lot and enjoyed seeing their loving and supportive relationship.

I loved how passionate the characters were about spreading the Gospel. It was inspiring to see them working so hard on getting the Mission started. There were definitely problems along the way. Big ones. Seemingly insurmountable ones. But I loved their resiliency and continued trust in the Lord.

The danger and excitement kept ramping up, and I found myself losing all track of time. I was so absorbed in it.

This was an absolute blast to read. It was very inspiring. I really hope there’s a sequel. If you’re looking for science fiction with a strong Christian message, grab a copy of this book. You’ll love it! I highly, highly recommend it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Above the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen Burnett. This book releases this coming Tuesday, March 4. And y'all! It's so good! One of the best sci-fi books I've read in a long time! 

About the Book

The fight for the space mission begins in his homeworld.

Brock Rivers never wanted to be a repairman on Mars. Years ago, he failed to protect his family, and now he labors across a frontier planet to keep his children alive and escape CAUSE. But the spacefaring humanist regime is taking over Martian colonies, forcing all to join the secular state.

Back in Brock’s homeworld, his people summon him to fulfill old hopes with a new dream. After decades of cultural isolation, they plan to restore missions for the 22nd century, voyaging beyond Earth to share the gospel in space. Brock must find a ship and recruit a team of misfit believers. They expect opposition from the formidable CAUSE, but not from a more deceptive enemy.

One adversary attacks from the shadows to destroy the faithful. Others unify to oppose the project. Brock and his family must fight to resist these enemies of the space mission or else return to exile forever.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Crimson light flared in the darkness, beating with the emergency tone that pulsed in Brock's head. He drew himself out of the warmth, facing quadrupled flashes that silently cried out e-mer-gen-cy, e-mer-gen-cy. Dim hovering text summarized the call for help. A new dome in Xanthe Terra was leaking air, one percent in the last hour, cause unknown.

Friday 56

Brock met with Alexander and found no protesters had pursued them inside. The postgrad student who fetched their appetizers didn't mention the outside mess.

What have you been reading lately?

Cover Reveal: All the Wild Hearts by J.M. Hackman

I'm so excited to be part of the cover reveal for All the Wild Hearts the first book in the Stardust Hearts series by J.M. Hackman! It's releasing April 29 and is a futuristic sci-fi fantasy retelling of Little Red Riding Hood! 

About the Book

Who’s afraid of the big bad businessman? Everyone.

On the snowy planet of Amaris, Avarill Engle makes deliveries for her grandmother and the residents of Skift, while avoiding unwanted advances from the gray tycoon Wolfgang Vujic. When the crooked CEO buys the mortgage to her grandmother’s neo-res, the only way to keep their home is to go to work—for him.

With every passing day, Avarill feels more desperate and afraid. Blaiz Weylin, her new friend and expert codestitcher, creates a plan to destroy Vujic, and Avarill eagerly joins the sting operation. But Blaiz’s past entwines with Vujic in ways he can’t confess, even as his feelings for Avarill deepen. When his secret comes to light, Avarill must make a choice: trust in the man who could break her heart or fight to free herself from Vujic’s iron grasp. With one wrong move, her freedom will become a distant memory. Time is running out, and the wolf is closing in.

There are no preorder links at this time but be on the lookout for this book at the end of April! 

Review: Echo Nova by Clint Hall

About the Book
Dash Keane is about to become the biggest star in history.

As a poor teenager living in the Dregs, Dash Keane can only escape his dismal reality by competing in illegal rooftop races and staying up late to watch the timenet with his younger brother.

When there is an opportunity to participate in a competition set thousands of years in the past, he uses his rooftop racer skills to catch the eye of Mr. Myrtrym, head of entertainment for the massive Dominus Corporation.

It is the chance of a lifetime when Dominus Corp. hires Dash to be a timestar—the focus of his own series in which he must survive some of the most dangerous periods in history, including the Cretaceous period, feudal Japan, the Wild West, and the Golden Age of Piracy.

But when empathy for the people of the past conflicts with the desires of his new employer, he must decide whether the price of fame is worth it, a decision that may cost him everything.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Time once lost, cannot be regained.

Y’all! This book was so good! There was never a dull moment in this action-packed thrill ride. I was racing through the pages as fast as I could. I was invested in every heart-pounding moment.

The worldbuilding was great. It was so cool! I felt like I was completely immersed in the story. Like I was right there in the middle of things alongside Dash. And I found myself losing track of time while I was reading.

I thought the whole concept of the timestream, timenet, and timestars was really interesting. And the science behind time travel was fascinating. I’ve never heard it explained that way before, but it made perfect sense. And it was really cool seeing all the different time periods that Dash visited.

While Dash was impulsive and a bit stubborn at times, he was an endearing and likeable hero. I loved his tenacity and admired his bravery. I loved the supportive relationship between him and his brother Knox, and I liked seeing the strong bond of friendship between him and Garon.

There were some bumps along the way, which is putting it mildly, but I really enjoyed watching Dash's growth throughout the book. He faced so many tests and trials, but it was captivating following his journey.

I didn’t want this book to end! It was perfectly paced and an absolute blast to read. It wasn’t all fun and games, though, as it delved into some timely topics, which I really appreciated. Needless to say, I highly, highly recommend it! Fans of high-stakes science fiction are sure to devour it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Cover Reveal: Warsafe by Lauren Smyth

I'm so excited to join in the #coverreveal for Warsafe by Lauren Smyth releasing from Enclave Publishing in May 2025! This YA sci-fi standalone is available to preorder in hardcover today.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Play. Win. Survive.

There’s one building on her island that Halley has never visited: the Mercenary House. Perched atop a mountain, surrounded by unnaturally evergreen foliage, the House is rumored to be a breeding ground for criminals. Mercenaries are liars, cheats, spies . . . and maybe, depending on who you ask, killers.

At the Warsafe headquarters in Seattle, Roscoe is beta testing the company’s new video game. It’s her job to track down glitches–but something is different about this one. Lurking behind the lines of malfunctioning code is a secret that threatens to drag her deeper into the game, forcing her to put her life on the line if she ever wants to come home.

Worlds collide as Roscoe teams up with Halley to uncover the island’s secret and expose Warsafe’s designs. But some mysteries are better left unsolved. As traitor after so-called traitor is revealed to be on their side, they begin to wonder: Could Warsafe’s mission be critical enough to justify its cruelty?

PREORDER:

AMAZON: https://amzn.to/40Imj38

ENCLAVE PUBLISHING: https://www.enclavepublishingstore.com/waresafe-hardcover

Review: The Boy in the Iron Box series by Guillermo del Toro & Chuck Hogan

About the Book
Dawn breaks, but the nightmare only intensifies in the shocking finale of The Boy in the Iron Box. In a final confrontation, the true nature of the Boy is coming to light.

In a stone chamber, the familiar young figure lingers with an unsettling calm. He has a question for Liev: Do you want to stop me? Now, for two merchants of death, each with his own purpose, one last contest lies ahead.

From Academy Award–winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro comes Encounter, chapter six of The Boy in the Iron Box, a blood-chilling serialized novel about an ancient secret that was never meant to be unleashed, featuring exclusive interior artwork. Each chapter can be read or listened to in one breathless sitting.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Note: This is a review for the whole series. You can find my thoughts on the first episode here.

This was an exciting series jam-packed with fast-paced action and high stakes. The sense of impending danger was palpable. This is labeled "horror,” and while there were plenty of tense, suspenseful, and even gruesome moments that had me on the edge of my seat, I was never scared. That might just be me, though. 

I will say that I had a hard time keeping the characters straight. They weren’t distinct enough for me to easily tell them apart.

I'm a little conflicted about the ending. It wasn't bad, and I really don't know any other way it could've ended, but it left me feeling slightly unsatisfied. That’s not to say that I didn’t like this series. I did. It held my attention and was an entertaining way to spend the afternoon. I think it would make a great TV series. I'll definitely keep an eye out for more from these authors.

Just a warning: this was a bit gory, so if you’re sensitive to that, keep that in mind.

FOUR STARS