Introduction
Published back in 2021, this Sci-fi standalone has captivated the hearts of thousands with its new resurgence into the spotlight after the movie adaptation was released in Cinemas across the world.
A Summary
Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a tiny ship with no idea who he is, why he’s there, or why two very dead crewmates are floating nearby. His memories come back in slow, frustrating pieces, and none of them explain why he’s drifting through deep space with no backup plan. As he starts putting the clues together, he realizes he’s been sent on a mission that’s far bigger than he ever imagined. Earth is in serious trouble, and he might be the only person who can figure out how to save it. The problem is that he’s light‑years from home, running out of time, and trying to solve a scientific puzzle that feels almost impossible. Just when it seems like he’s truly on his own, something unexpected changes everything and gives him a reason to hope he might not be as alone as he thought.
Writing Style
The writing style feels very unique. It follows one POV - Dr. Ryland Grace, through the past and present as his memories come back. The prose mixes a level of humour and the sad reality that he is in, which molds this very unique, but extremely enjoyable read.
My Thoughts
I chose to pick this up as part of my conscious attempt to read outside of my comfort zone this month, and this book certainly did that. I am not usually someone that reads books to do with space, on account of the fact that I am petrified of it. This book was chock-a-block with space, the ocean and spider-y like beings that absolutely would have ruined me if the book wasn’t written so well. I didn’t have time to be afraid because I was incredibly immersed in Dr. Grace’s POV. The book only allowed you to feel how he felt, which I appreciated. I am notably horrible with physics, and math in general (hence the fact I became a writer), but the way that the complex physics were explained genuinely astonished me. I could - not only follow along - but accurately comprehend what information was being given. Also, Rocky. Just Rocky. I love him and I fear he has forever changed my perspective on life.
Recommendation
I typically do not enjoy sci-fi books but this one felt different. I would absolutely recommend it for those that love sci-fi or those that want to spread out and try it. My advice would be that if you get 50 pages in, and you don’t understand the physics that are being explained at all, then it probably isn’t the book for you.
Songs
Songs that I find reminiscent of the book:
Two Of Us by The Beatles
I Am the Antichrist to You by Kishi Bashi
(P.S. We made them links so feel free to click on them and get teleported straight into the vibes.)
