Obviously, with the huge (and "huge" probably isn't a strong enough word, let's be real) success of the Illuminae Files series, Jay & Aime's next book was destined to be at the top of everyone and their mom's reading lists. And look, I was cautiously optimistic? Optimistic enough to give it a try, clearly, cautious because Obsidio... well it was not my fave.
So, I am pleased to report that I definitely enjoyed Aurora Rising!! Let us talk about why:
- •The characters are incredible. I daresay I like them more than those of Illuminae. I felt a much stronger connection to them, and just plain cared more about them. I loved that they were (begrudgingly so, at first) such a cohesive team. Even when they didn't really want to be, they were loyal to the core. And they were all such different and unique personalities that it was pretty easy to differentiate, even with so many points of view.
- •Fine, so it low key reminded me of The 100. I'm not sorry, you know that will always be a plus for me. Especially Aurora, for reasons I won't explain (and not because of spoilers for this book, but spoilers for The 100 hah).
- •Space adventure! Obviously if you're picking this up, you're absolutely here for space adventure. And yes, it delivers. There is a ton of action and shenanigans.
- •It read super fast. I was shocked when I found out it was almost 500 pages! You'd seriously never guess, it didn't bore me, or drag, or lag. Good stuff.
Truly, the only thing that I have reservations about is the same thing that irked me about Obsidio- it felt kind of safe? I mean, maybe that is because of my aforementioned Obsidio bias, but I guess I just didn't feel a huge sense of doom, even given the dire situations the gang found themselves in. Regardless, it was worth it.
Bottom Line: Such an enjoyable and entertaining sci-fi adventure, complete with characters that I laughed with, and felt sympathy for.