Asrian Skies
Author: Anne Wheeler
Published: September 2017
Book Length: 300 Pages
Genre: Science Fiction
Buy the Book: Amazon
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Disclaimer: I was given a copy from the author in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Avery Rendon is weeks away from realizing her dream as a Commonwealth fighter pilot when planetary politics intervene. Reluctantly, she returns to her home planet of Asria, still hoping to break free of her controlling family and their faith. Not much has changed on Asria though, and after her almost-fiancé walks out on her, she’s not sure life can get much worse.
She’s wrong. When the Haederan Empire invades Asria, intent on rebuilding their interstellar domain, Avery becomes a target. She also becomes something else—a Commonwealth intelligence officer. It’s not long before she stumbles upon information that could change the course of the war, and suddenly she’s on the run, forced to confront her fear of death and her lingering doubts about her faith’s teachings.
Swept up in something more dangerous than politics or flying, Avery begins to wonder if her destiny lies somewhere closer to home. If those old beliefs are worth clinging to. And if she’ll live to see the end of it all.
This cover is stunning in person! The amount of detail in it is amazing! I love the contrast of blues and blacks. It truly depicts a wonderful outer space image. Let’s not forget about the font color choice. Anne did not settle for a simple flat color, she chose an ombre effect. This color effect to me imitates the changes characters go through. I know that was not the intention and I am digging too deep, it was merely aesthetically pleasing, but it can be symbolic as well.
I was lucky enough to have some nice weather, enabling me to read outside and enjoy the view.
This story begins with Avery Rendon. She is a Commonwealth cadet and a member of the royal family on her home planet. Now her uncle has abdicated the throne and she has been called back. All of her plans and dreams are out the window. Little does she know a whole lot more is about to change.
I want to begin by saying that this story and its characters have so much depth. Anne really thought out every detail of this story. This tale is told from the perspective of Avery. Since the reader only sees from Avery’s perspective, we are often left frustrated with the inaccurate information she is given. Though it is done in a way that only enhances the tension the reader and Avery feel as events occur.
Every character seems to be flawed…making them so much more realistic and believable. Sometimes you find a character who you really enjoy, but they just seem too perfect…not these ones. Avery was my favorite character. I loved watching her grow and develop. I really connected with her, feeling the loss and pain she went through. I did not simply read her story, I experienced it.
You feel that each character is planning things to push their own plot. You get glimpses of their interactions with Avery, but just know they are up to something more. As I read, I was trying to unravel what each person was up to…what their motives were. I did not have to wait too long though, for in the end I was shocked by some of the unexpected plot twists. Anne for sure takes you for a ride. She keeps you guessing at who to trust.
The world building in this book is wonderful. With a story that is so in depth, I often see the dreaded information dump. You will not find any of that here. The world is seamlessly built around the reader as the story progresses. Anne uses her aviator experience to make many aspects of the ships realistic. Not only was the world building so vivid, but the pace fit the storyline well. I hated to put this book down. It has been a while since I had read such an engaging, edge of your seat science fiction novel.
If you are looking for a new science fiction read that will pull you away from Earth and into an immersive, detailed world…keep you guessing about what each person is up to…this is a great choice for you. I have been dreading this review. I just feel that my review cannot justify how much I loved this book. Asrian Skies leaves you satisfied but still craving more. I am super excited to read the sequel Unbroken Fire, coming in June! Be sure to watch for my review.
Have you read this novel? Does it sound like something you would enjoy? Let me know what you think below.