The Lost Planet Series Series, Book 1

November 4, 2013
The quest for identity propels Chase Garrety through this sprawling SF adventure. When the story opens, Chase awakens on the planet Trucon without a single memory of who he is—that information comes from a heavily damaged microchip embedded in his head. Chase soon makes the acquaintance of Parker, a young gamer/ hacker, and an ultrastrong android named Mina. Debut author Searles is attentive to the evolving friendship between Chase and Parker, as well as Chase’s frustration at his own amnesia, but an encounter with a mysterious pilot named Maurus and a struggle for power between the controlling Federation and rebel group Karsha Ven escalate the stakes to macrocosmic significance. The action never lets up as Chase and Parker, uncertain of who to trust, are targeted from all sides as they race from planet to planet; some readers may feel as lost as Chase amid the flurry of alien creatures, worlds, and technology. The unveiling of Chase’s past provides a pleasing coda to his saga, but enough questions remain unanswered to support additional books. Ages 9–13. Agent: Joanna Volpe, New Leaf Literary + Media.

February 1, 2014

Gr 4-7-This debut novel is a rousing space adventure, filled with government conspiracies, a quest for identity, and nonstop action. In the distant future, intergalactic space travel is possible, Earth has colonies, all humanoid races are ranked, and the Fleet, controlled by Earthans, enforce justice. Chase Garrety wakes up on the planet Trucon with a blaster wound to the head and a case of amnesia. He is taken in by Parker, an orphaned ward under the care of the mysterious and absent Asa. It becomes clear that Chase is no ordinary boy, and no one is quite sure who or what he really is. To make matters more complicated, Chase and Parker witness a horrific attack on their planet while on its moon, sparking what could be the beginnings of war. Chase must learn who he is and where he comes from, no matter where the answers may lead. While the universe and its inhabitants are interesting, character development and world building are on the thin side. The book's appeal, however, lies in its plot-driven story line, making it fun and accessible. Short, fast-moving chapters with cliff-hanger endings will be particularly attractive for reluctant readers. There is a planned sequel. Recommended for general purchase.-Marissa Lieberman, East Orange Public Library, NJ

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

bookstory13 - When Chase Garrety wakes up he only knows one thing: Guide the star. His past unknown and only his basic skills to rely on, Chase sets out on a quest with his brand new friend Parker and Parker's android, Mina. When escaping from a chase, Mina is hit, and the boys pick up a man who's ship was blown to bits-but the man is more dangerous than he seems. When the rush to discover his past and fix the present leads Chase and his friends to a weapon smuggling black market, Chase wonders how deep he has gotten. But one thing is for sure-there's no backing out now. I REALLY liked this book because I couldn't seem to put it down and read it constantly until I finished. The author has a way with words and can pack in the action! A total 5/5! --BKS reviews

January 1, 2014
Grades 5-8 Terrifying monsters, cold androids, and intriguing mysteries abound in Searles' first novel. Chase Garrety awakens on a planet he doesn't know and with a face he doesn't recognize, his life up to now a complete blank. But his amnesia is far from his biggest problem: the only thing he can remember is a secret message, but what does it mean? Who is it for? His adventure across the planets of the Federation garners him new friends, old enemies, and more problems than he knows what to do with. Even though Chase is confused from the second he wakes up, his need to find out his history makes him easy to cheer on. Comparisons to Star Wars are not out of bounds, as this intergalactic escapade races on at an exciting pace. This fun, adrenaline-filled story is perfect for younger teen sci-fi fans. There could certainly be another installment to this story since Chase's exploits aren't easily put to bed, but The Lost Planet has a solid, satisfying conclusion. Let's hope Searles has more up her sleeve.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)