[I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
Summary
Tyler has achieved all he’s worked for. He’s completed his Academy training at the top of his class. He’s going to get first pick for the best squad of graduates – until he discovers Aurora.
Two hundred years ago, Aurora left Earth in cryostasis, headed for a colony. Her ship disappeared. When Tyler finds it two centuries later, Aurora is the only one on the ship still alive.
Rescuing Aurora was the right thing to do, but it cost Tyler his chance at an elite squad. His twin sister, Scarlett is still with him as his diplomat, and Cat is still his pilot and best friend. But the other three – Finian, Zila, and Kaliis – weren’t anyone’s first, second, or third choice.
When Tyler and his team – plus Aurora – head out on their first assignment – a garbage assignment that feels beneath them – everything that could go wrong, does. That’s when they discover that the Global Intelligence Agency is eager to get their hands on Aurora. And the GIA isn’t very particular about what happens to anyone else who gets in their way.
Review
I am a huge fan of great science fiction stories, and Aurora Rising definitely qualifies. I loved this whole adventure – the characters, the world, the heist, the aliens – all of it.
We have only scratched the surface with these characters. This book left me wanting to know more about them. Kal and Zila were the most interesting for me – and I hope we hear more from Zila in the next book. She’s still pretty much a mystery. I also loved Aurora’s 21st century vibe – references to Lord of the Rings and all – because she feels the most familiar, coming from a time near our own.
The authors do an amazing job of rolling out a captivating story without giving all their secrets away early on. While so many questions are answered by the end, there are yet more out there for book 2. And book 2 is a MUST read for me. I can’t wait to share this one with my family – I gave it to my teen as soon as I finished – and friends. It’s a terrific story – and it’s only the beginning of Aurora’s journey. I can’t wait to read more! (Some language, references to off-page sex)