In this story of alien invasion, I enjoyed the use of a limited omniscient voice giving us access to Carl’s state the intense feelings throughout especially during his first disastrous EVA. Effective use of sentence fragments.

It’s fresh and interesting. I like it. Even though I love science fiction, I don’t have the hard science background to comment on everything with accuracy. I do love the aliens though.

I enjoy the occasional sf-mil read, but I had a hard time following a lot of the hand-to-hand battles and battle jargon. That’s probably due to my lack of comprehension rather than the writing itself. I don’t have a hard science background.

My favorite part is the incredibly imaginative and detailed alien creatures, their interactions, and their technology. I would love to have seen more of what was there, and also some context regarding their origin stories and what happens to them later. They felt like real and sympathetic characters.

In terms of last-minute critique, I would suggest another comb through for typos that spellcheck won’t find (homophones, autocorrectoes, etc.), grammar issues like (between vs among) and smoothing some stilted word choices. The spelling of Kurt Russell’s name. “Abdominal pouch” made me think “kangaroo” first, then “belly bags” from the 80s. My mind wanders a lot when the style and word choice feels a little forced at times. Another example, “From there, he and the other Earth advisors with their Kiran counterparts would disseminate into the other ship and get acquainted with their new crew.” I felt that the syntax is a bit wordy and awkward and for me, elicited a flashback of a Woody Allen movie with him dressed as a nervous sperm cell among a thousand others, waiting to disembark like a parachute jumper. A different word? Perhaps not “penetrate,” for a similar reason? I think a simplified rewrite would be best, and in general don’t mention things that don’t need to be spelled out.

In terms of a broader critique, I would have liked more context going in and leaving the story. Like a prologue and epilogue?

Thank you to Joshua Innes and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my opinion. If looking for an editor or another reader, I’d suggest checking with Kara, someone I follow on goodreads whose website mentions both. Very smart, excellent writer, loves sf, and likes to read ARC submissions.

2 stars, Wishes don't make it better

RELICT
by Joshua Innes

I had hoped to be more impressed by this novel, unfortunately, it left me feeling flat. Phrases such as "sucking his blood into her mouth" grossed me out. I didn't sign up for this.

Hopefully, the next book the author publishes will be less icky. I'm sure there are lots of people out there who do like this sort of book.

I received a complimentary copy from #NetGalley #IndependentPublishers of #Relict I was under no obligation to post a review.

#SciFi #Space #Aliens #JoshuaInnes #ReigningGlassSeries

A compelling science fiction novel that delves into the depths of the cosmos, weaving a tale of survival, unity, and sacrifice. In a future where Earth is visited by advanced civilizations, the clash between the Kir and the Va'lo sets the stage for a high-stakes battle. Finton Glass, a skilled engineer, finds himself at the center of this conflict as he and his Kiran partner, Ana, navigate treacherous terrain in deep space. What starts as a mission to offer consultation quickly transforms into a gripping struggle for their very lives. Innes skillfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, immersing them in a world where peace and survival are at odds, and unity comes at a dangerous cost. Relict is a thrilling journey that invites readers to ponder the complexities of human nature and the lengths we're willing to go to protect what we hold dear.

Whoa, hold onto your spacesuits because Relict by Joshua Innes is like a wild rollercoaster ride through space! Imagine Earth being visited by these super advanced beings, the Kir, and then they get into this huge showdown with the Va'lo – it's like action-packed right from the start. Finton Glass, the main guy, is just your regular engineer, but he ends up on this crazy mission with his Kiran buddy, Ana. And let me tell you, things go from 'let's give advice' to 'let's survive this madness' real quick. The book's like a mix of adrenaline, danger, and a whole lot of heart. You'll be glued to the pages as they face challenges that make you question what you'd do in their shoes. If you're into sci-fi that's not afraid to get deep and make you think, Relict is a must-read