The Stars Now Unclaimed

July 2, 2018
Williams’s sarcastic, trope-filled debut is a science fiction adventure that never takes itself too seriously. Jane is a human member of the Justified sect who’s trying to make up for what she views as the worst thing she’s ever done. A few generations ago, the universe was hit by the pulse, a weapon that destroyed all other weaponry. It got out of control and set planets back technologically, leaving some without even electricity. Jane’s sect was the one that released it, with her help. Now she’s trying to right her wrongs by traveling to different planets to find kids who have gained powers because of the pulse. With the help of Preacher, a member of the alien AI Barious, her goal is to help telekinetic child Esa save the universe. But the destructive, shortsighted sect known as Pax has been rallying for universal domination and stands in her way. For those familiar with the genre, this story won’t have many surprises, but it’s an enjoyable ride full of dry humor and thrilling action scenes. Agent: Chris Kepner, Kepner Agency.

In a thrilling nonstop adventure through the ruins of space, listeners accompany Jane, superbly portrayed as a hardened ex-soldier by Brittany Pressley. After Jane recruits a telekinetic teenager to her sect, the Justified, hoping to prevent the coming of a second disastrous space pulse, Jane's emotions slowly bleed through her tough exterior. Facing an invasion by another deadly sect, Jane teams up with her wise-cracking spaceship, whose upper-class British accent adds comedic relief between battles, an ex-boyfriend, and a lizard-like fellow soldier. Presley's narrative abilities bring each character to life, raising the emotional stakes as the gang faces horrific beasts and blazing guns in this pulse-pounding space opera. Science fiction fans will be riveted from the opening to the epic conclusion. J.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine