Name: The Cruel Stars
ISBN: 9780399593314

John Birmingham

"A group of intrepid heroes must band together to save civilization after a long dormant enemy awakens and strikes a devastating blow"--

The Cruel Stars

Laura Kehoe

I'm a huge Science Fiction fan and particularly love books that take place in space or on different planets. Throw in a dangerous enemy and some strong characters, and you've created a book tat is right up  my alley. At least in theory. I did enjoy The Cruel Stars and there were plenty of parts I thought were great, but overall, I was a little disappointed in this one. 

One thing that threw me off right away was the fact that there were quite a few different perspectives, but no real connection between them. Of course, later it all came together and made sense. But at first, I had a hard time feeling invested in each character's situation because it all seemed so disconnected and some of the situations weren't particularly interesting for me. There were a few perspectives I immediately enjoyed, however, so that gave me the push I needed to keep reading until the dots began to connect. Even then, there were some characters I didn't feel as invested in. But at least once I understood the plot better, I could see why they were present. 

But one thing I really appreciated the world building in this book. I was so impressed with Birmingham's ability to create a unique and well-developed universe with such a rich history. I would have liked a few more details about some things, but for the most part I thought the worlds and people created were filled with such rich details. I feel like I could step right into this world. 

Overall, I enjoyed The Cruel Stars, but not as much as  I was hoping. I still think it's worth reading though, especially if you love action-packed space operas. There is a lot to love about this book. 

Thank you to NetGalley and Del Ray for the chance to read and review this book!

Ian Marchant 

Melissa Railey

Kylie Frazer

They thought the Sturm were dead. They were wrong. Centuries after their defeat, the enemy has returned with an overwhelming attack on the fringes of human space. On the brink of annihilation, humankind's only hope is a few brave souls who survived the initial onslaught: Commander Lucinda Hardy, thrust into uncertain command of the Royal Armadalen Navy's only surviving warship; Booker3, a soldier of Earth, sentenced to die for treason, whose time on Death Row is cut short by the invasion; Alessia, a young royal of the Montanblanc Corporation, forced to flee when her home planet is overrun and her entire family executed; Sephina L'trel, the leader of an outlaw band who must call on all of their criminal skills to resist the invasion. And, finally, retired Admiral Frazer McLennan, the infamous hero of the first war with the Sturm hundreds of years ago, who hopes to rout his old foes once and for all – or die trying. These five flawed, reluctant heroes must band together to prevail against a relentless enemy and near-impossible odds. For if they fail, the future itself is doomed.