Aurora Rising (Aurora Cycle, #1)

by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

[kimbacaffeinate]

Kristoff and Kaufman are magic together. The tale that unfolds while suitable for young adults is one that will appeal to fantasy and science fiction lovers universally.

Unique and diverse characters from across the Galaxy with their own customs was just as addictive as the world these author’s created. While most of our time was spent aboard their ship, we also spent time on stations, traveling the fold and learning about the wars, galaxies and its people.

The crew of Squad321:

-Tyler Jones: Captain of Squad 321 Tyler lives and dies by the code/rules and he will be faced with difficult decisions.

-Zila Madran: Science officer. Zila has had over thirty-two reprimands in the past two years at the academy. She is smart but I wouldn’t cross her.

-Kal Gilwraeth: Syldrathi born and bred for battle. His race is known for their arrogance and skill. I liked Kal and found information about his world and customs fascinating.

-Finian de Seel: If it’s broke he will fix it. I liked Fin who struggles in his skeletal suit and can be a downright arse.

-Catherine “Cat” Brannock: Ace pilot. She is opinionated, and at times abrasive. She claims to not have “feelings” for Tyler. *raises brow*

-Scarlett Jones: Trained black belt, sister to Tyler and peacekeeper.

-Aurora Jie-Lin O’Malley was awoken 200 years after entering cryo-sleep. Rescued by Tyler she may be the key to saving the galaxy. If she doesn’t get them all killed first.

From the fast-paced action scenes to intergalactic discoveries and beginning series ARC the story was a tight, well-paced and took me as the listener through a gamut of emotions. I came to connect with the members of this motley crew and experienced moments of laughter as we witnessed comradery, snark and banter. Seeing them become a unit rocked.

The audiobook is narrated by a full cast. It had added sound effects that heightened our experience. It was brilliant, seamless and a delight to behold. Kim Mai Guest, Johnathan McClain, Candice Moll, Lincoln Hoppe, Steve West and Erin Spencer provided the voices and narration. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer