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The Basilisk Trilogy #1

Technically Not Dead

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When a disillusioned hacker, Ouen Vincent, is approached by nanite-enhanced Amara with an enticing offer of adventure, money, and possible vengeance, he accepts. It doesn’t take much time working together before they begin to realize that their pasts have eerily similar beginnings. Instead of diminishing, their questions only seem to increase at a rapid pace.

The more they search, the more peril unfolds. A simple quest for retribution mutates into a world of conspiracy theories brought to life. The pair quickly find themselves on the verge of being hollowed by the shadows of an ancient cult shrouded in secrecy.

Ouen and Amara, along with their companions, Rex and Thea, fight to free themselves from the web in which they’ve become ensnared. This heart-pounding adventure reaches into the vastness of space and challenges the limits of friendship, duty, and love.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 17, 2023

5 people are currently reading
225 people want to read

About the author

Leah Jubilee

3 books30 followers

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5 stars
18 (42%)
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16 (38%)
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5 (11%)
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3 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Ash.
394 reviews8 followers
August 19, 2025
DNF at 38%

The FMC is "so tiny," and both the FMC and MMC are superhuman at everything. As a huge fan of military sci-fi, I can't tolerate the flippant scenes of siege and fighting. Without research, experience, help from experts, anything more solid than Marvel movies for reference--just because one *wants to* write military sci-fi, doesn't mean one should. Leave the guns alone, that's what magic and fantasy is for. Though I suppose on the flip side, if you enjoy action as believable as a Paw Patrol, here ya go!
Profile Image for Lydia Thurm.
80 reviews4 followers
November 17, 2023
I loved being an ARC reader for this book! It was one of the fastest books I have read in a while. While it took me a second to understand the world-building, I quickly was drawn into this book. I loved the chemistry between Ouen and Amara and loved how more was revealed about their connection throughout the book. I was surprised with how much I fell in love with the characters and how fast they made a home in my heart.

I also really appreciated how this is a clean, closed-door book. While some of the themes are heavier, I enjoyed the exploration of the ethics behind them.

I am excited to see where this series goes, especially with the major cliffhanger at the end of this book. I can't wait to reread this book while I anxiously await the release of book 2!
Profile Image for Nathaniel.
Author 33 books277 followers
December 11, 2023
I'm unsure of how to approach this review because I have a lot of thoughts.

The good: If you're looking for an entertaining sci-fi book, Technically Not Dead is going to fit the bill. It's fast-paced, fun, and clever at times. The fact that I have an exam today and delayed my studying to finish this book speaks for itself. I had a ton of fun. The strength with this book is the characters. I ADORED them. I annotated a lot in this book and most of my highlights were dialogue. I couldn't get enough of Amara and Ouen. The book felt a bit weirdly paced only because the synopsis didn't really happen until the last 3rd of the book. I did enjoy the unique twist that happened, but I am unsure as of right now if I will be continuing on with the series.

The not so good: this book isn't perfect. If you are critical with your books, you will probably find issues with pacing and writing (in terms of style). I'd say this book is best for those who just want a fun time that doesn't require much brain work. So there's an audience for this. I'm part of that audience. This delivered exactly what I wanted.

Even if I don't continue in this series, I will be reading more from Leah. She has proven her potential with this debut and I look forward to seeing where her writing career takes her.
Profile Image for emelieandbooks.
20 reviews
November 17, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Technically not DEAD
I got the honor of reading this amazing book as an ARC. Thank you, for giving me this opportunity!

"[] her lonely heart couldn't help but hear her thoughts as they took every opportunity to remind Amara that she was one-of-a-kind. In other worlds, she was alone."

This book is about Ouen and Amara. It follows their crazy story from their first meeting to, well the end of this book (huge spoiler if I told that 😅)
They live far in the future where everyone can travel through the universe. Earth is a disaster and the two main characters are on a mission. (Anything else is literally a spoiler 😭 - go read this book right now!!!!)
It takes turns and has such an interesting way of telling this story! I loved it!
The characters were all very different from one another and unique in general. Imagining the future and putting these thoughts into a book while also trying to make others understand the world is not an easy task, I can imagine. BUT it was perfectly executed.
The only thing I have to criticise is: Sometimes I didn't know which POV was speaking at the start of a chapter (not a problem for a long period of time, obviously) and sometimes it wasn't clear where and when we currently are.

In general I loved the concept of this book and I'm so excited to know what's happening next!!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Millions of dust particles glistened as they floated contentedly through the expanse as though it was their right to be luxurious with their time. Amara had never been so fortunate."

This book is for anyone who's looking for their next adventure! Go for this book and you won't regret it. 😊
Profile Image for Tiff Miller.
402 reviews48 followers
November 28, 2024
An interesting premise, a likeable cast of characters, and a futuristic sci-fi setting? Yes, please!

This independently published debut novel surprised me by being on equal ground with so many debuts published by the big publishing houses. In fact, it's better than some I've read. It's well-written, pretty well polished, and hard to put down.

The relationship between Amara and Ouen is complicated, but not due to the more common tropes. It's a bit odd until you finally find out why they're connected the way they are, and raises the stakes once the climax unfolds. It all comes together just enough to lay the groundwork for the second book, and I am here for it!

I found it hard to put down, honestly. Stupid adulting forced me to sleep instead of reading!

It ends on a cliffhanger, and I immediately bought the second book because I needed to know what happens next!

I think the only thing it needs is an experienced, professional editing hand to give it the last boost it needs to read like a great book. It's a phenomenally good book -- no doubt -- and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves sci-fi, found family, and a little bit of mystery.

I do think Jubilee has something great to give the world, and I would love to see her work in bookstore windows.
Profile Image for Trish.
68 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2023
Technically Not Dead
by Leah Jubilee

Thank you to the author for providing a much anticipated ARC! Looking forward to news about a sequel @bibliophile_from_space 😉

Release Date: November 17, 2023

In my own words, Technically Not Dead is a sci-fi novel with lots of banter and romantic tones. The tension is there, y’all 🫠 I absolutely loved the MMC, Ouen (Yoo•uhn). He’s thoughtful and pragmatic and definitely swoon worthy. Ouen is sought out and recruited by Amara. She’s been blessed, and cursed, with nanos throughout her body that are, at times, more harmful than helpful. Together, they travel through space on a hunt to end corruption, one that has destroyed everything they care about. Even with the help of her crew, Amara’s search for truth becomes more mysterious and chaotic. They might find more than they bargained for.

Technically Not Dead is Leah Jubilee’s first novel and it was interesting to the last page! I was impressed with the research that must have gone into writing this book.

The story twists and turns as it’s filled with jaw dropping discoveries. I was gripping the arm of my chair while reading much of this book. And, by the end, I wanted to scream.

Technically Not Dead
Available for preorder (Barnes and Noble)
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Profile Image for its_just_cat.
3 reviews
November 17, 2023
Technically not dead grabbed my attention from the first page. The main character Amara entered the scene with a bang and she kept you on your toes the entire time. The banter between her and Ouen is amazing. The relationships created and shared with every character in the novel was amazing. The tension was real. My only complaint is the ending, but who doesn’t love to hate a cliffhanger?!

Thank you for the opportunity to read this as an ARC, I will be waiting and watching to see what happens next!

Available November 17, 2023!
Author 4 books6 followers
November 17, 2023
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this new author, and I felt very privileged to have an early look at this debut novel! It took me a few chapters to get into the story, but the author soon had me engrossed in her storytelling! I especially loved the small detail of color in one of the main character's eyes (you will know once you read the book!), and the action was incredible. This has romance in it, but I thought it was very sweet and natural throughout the book. The clean, descriptive language was also an appreciation of mine since vulgar terms often deter me from a book. I had faint Star Wars vibes, and loved the space travel! It was obvious the author did extensive research to make sure her descriptions were believable. It is definitely worth the read!
Profile Image for Elise A Peculiar Mademoiselle.
34 reviews
November 18, 2023
Debut author Leah Jubilee creates a wonderful sci-fi world that drags you in. The characters are well written and I love seeing them grow. The book takes us all across the dystopian solar system, is action packed, and has a clean romance as well. I recommend checking this book out.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
150 reviews16 followers
January 9, 2024
This book is a not to be missed dystopian sci-fi adventure with a colorful cast of characters that will steal your heart. It gives Star Trek vibes in a good way (the second season of the Picard series, honestly, with its great ensemble cast whose humor and emotions play off each other effortlessly), but also reminds me sometimes of the Star Wars series Andor and Ahsoka Tano.
The adventure leads the characters to a lot of different sites throughout the solar system, and their interactions in coffee shops, at festivals, on military bases, is exceedingly well done. Due to my avid sci-fi show watching over the last 35 years, this felt very familiar and was fantastically detailed down to the clothing the speaker was wearing without it detracting from the scene. Clearly, the author has done a lot of research into science fiction, but also wowed me in brand new ways. Bits from my favorite stories and shows combined with fresh takes on common situations.
In addition to the sci-fi part, though, there is literally so much more. Adventure, humor, a sword wielding assassin, the revival of an ancient Earth sect that were thought to have been dead and gone a very long time ago, clean romance, hidden connections, Scottish accents, a ginger cat, Clydesdale horses, a creepily awesome villain with a chilling endgame, multiple identities, and cross galaxy pursuits fraught with danger. There is mystery that is breadcrumbed throughout,tons of intrigue, and the solidifying security of found family. This all sounds lovely, but there really is danger afoot, other reviewers are correct, the plot will haunt you. And the cliffhanger is chilling. I can’t tell you any more.
The characters are so well thought out and relatable. Amara is great. She’s a fantastic lead character, her introduction is very sassy, and gives you an immediate taste of the vibe she carries. She knows more than you think she does, she’s got her own agenda, and either you’re in or you’re out. The way she reacts to Ouen continually surprises her, and that recognition and wonder comes through clearly. Ouen’s character development was a pleasure to watch, I really enjoyed his perspective. The author nails the older brother vibe with Rex, and the interpersonal relationships are really what make the found family a crew. They uncover way more than Amara ever expected at the start, and frankly, more than Ouen signed up for when he left Pluto And then there’s Thea, that it turns out, is the most like me. Which made me happy because she’s awesome. She’s a familiar type of character resembling several of my favorite warrior women in literature, movies and shows. There are well fleshed out side characters, some who simply have their usefulness, others who were or become like family, and the author makes you feel something for each one.
The ending is a cliffhanger, and there are more books planned in this series. I happily and heartily give this book five stars.
Profile Image for Elle Rushing.
Author 2 books3 followers
September 10, 2025
High level impressions of the book - Very engaging plot, the story is well thought out and carried by a relatively small cast of characters, who I feel were fleshed out well (the story took a bit to find its feet, but was very well paced), and the two main characters played off each other well.

Two things I think Leah Jubilee did a wonderful job at: Keeping representation of Amara's struggles with the nanites consistent, and keeping the setting of the entire novel within our solar system. I have to say, representation of neurodivergent/otherwise challenged people, along with their strengths, is a delicate balance. Keeping the setting of the story limited to such a small 'space' forces the reader to think about the nearby (actual) planets and destinations in more immediate terms and lets the author's love for sci fi and our little stellar neighborhood shine.

Barring the need for more comprehensive line editing and a little more explanation at times (especially when it came to character motivations early on), I found this book very entertaining and could overlook minor mistakes as I was very invested into the characters. I've already bought the two following books and I see myself completing, and very much enjoying, the rest of their story :)

Looking forward to seeing how Amara and Ouen grow in the next book, and also learning more about Alton's motivations.
Author 3 books25 followers
October 13, 2025
This book has the bones of a compelling story, but right now it is just that. Bones.

With 200+ pages of extensive world building added this book would have been an enthralling read, but sadly the worldbuilding is almost non existent.

Every planet seems the same other than the general weather. There were no cultural or physical differences and no explanation as to how other planets became inhabitable other than “terraforming”. The sci-fi stuff which I was excited to read about like devices and tech was also poorly described. Nothing was particularly unique. The whole story could’ve easily taken place on earth, especially considering the name and origins of the villains.

The characters are passable but a lot of action, weirdly, happens off page (eg was the rescue of Josie when infiltrating the ZM). The writing also suffers from clunkiness and poor pacing.

I will read the next book because I bought the entire series, but unfortunately this is not up to par for a new adult sci fi.

Profile Image for Tired Mom Book Club.
31 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2023
The ENDING?! WHAT DID I JUST READ?? Okay but seriously, the amount of research that Leah most definitely put into this novel is out of this world (get my pun? No? Read the book 😉). There is so much detail and description and knowledge all wrapped up in this book that I’m completely in awe. Her writing style is well beyond her years (and mine), and I’m beyond impressed. This was my first adventure into sci-fi and I loved it! Ouen was easily my favorite character. He’s a bit quirky but adorable and the most fun for me to read about. I love that he was a bit of a recluse who came out of his shell and made deep bonds with the other 3 main characters. I am VERY unhappy with the ending of this book, but in the best way. I really, really hope the next book doesn’t take another 8 years to write because I’m not sure I can wait that long? I just… I have a lot of questions now. Check out Leah Jubilee’s debut novel! She knocked it out of the park, in my opinion.
Profile Image for Abby Draper.
130 reviews11 followers
November 17, 2023
I want to thank the author for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review! I think this is a unique scifi universe with lovable characters. It’s a little bit space bounty hunter, a little romance, and a little espionage. I had a little bit of a hard time getting into the first half which kind of seemed like a totally different book compared to the second half. When I started, I thought it was going in a whole other direction. The second half went much faster and drew me in with the action! I realized at the end that there will be a sequel and of course the drama and cliffhanger has me wanting to read the next one! Overall, good story and great debut for the author.
2 reviews1 follower
November 19, 2023
I was happy to be selected by the author to be an ARC reader.

If you are into a fast-paced, space fantasy filled adventure with a dash of romance this is the book for you!

Amara is on a mission for revenge and she is going to recruit Ouen to come along whether he wants to or not (which he does after a relatively boring life in space suburbia)

I loved Ouen's and Amara's relationship as well as the dynamic between the other characters!

Well developed plot and... Can't say anything else without giving away spoilers!

All in all would recommend!

Profile Image for Tonya Friend.
1 review
January 25, 2024
A job well done!

This is a great read! I thoroughly enjoyed it! The author maintained a consistency that is mind boggling with all the threads running parallel to each other. She makes the space sci-fi theme totally fit in with the nods to old world technology. The characters are full bodied and believable, while the scenarios have far-reaching impacts in multiple directions. Yet the story is told in a way that you can easily keep up with the author’s nanite mind functions (you’ll get it, if you read the book).

Great job Leah! I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Profile Image for Matt Grojean.
10 reviews3 followers
May 30, 2024
Excellent story, world building and character development. I felt a real connection to the characters and an investment in the storyline. This sci-fi adventure has a lot to offer that is unique to this series. Some elements are definitely on the psychological thriller side. What would make this a 5 star read would be improvements in proofreading, editing and a bit more seasoned writing style. An excellent first effort and the overall story and experience more than makes up for what it lacks. I will definitely continue to read the rest of the series as it becomes available.
Profile Image for Mikah Wonders.
12 reviews
September 5, 2025
I was an ARC reader for this book and my review never got posted so here it is!!! I loved “Technical Not Dead” it was a fantastic read. Amoras character development stuck out to me the most it was really well written and I fell in love with her journey. It took me the first two or three chapters to understand the world that we were in but once you’re in it MAN it is great.

This book is fantastic for readers who want a quick, simple read that’s also CLEAN! I appreciated that there wasn’t any bad language there wasn’t any spice. It made it so much easier and more engaging to read.
7 reviews
Read
May 4, 2024
Recently bought this book at a library supporting local authors. I absolutely loved it. It was a true page turner, and kept me interested throughout. My only disappointment is that it didn't resolve the situation, which means I now have to wait for book two in the series. I wonder when that will be.
Profile Image for Natalie Colburn.
Author 3 books10 followers
December 15, 2023
This story has a slow start, however, as the action picks up, it's definitely worth it. It feels like a mix between Shatter Me and Cinder, all while maintaining its own unique storyline. I love Amara and Ouen's dynamic and can not wait for the sequel!
2 reviews
February 23, 2024
This was an incredible read! The characters sucked me in from the start. It has an original plot, unique worlds, snarky banter, and an intense cliff hanger that has me anxiously waiting for the sequel. 😍
Profile Image for Nərmin.
636 reviews173 followers
June 28, 2024
That was really a good book! I adored the main characters and their relationships, friendly banter and all. The story was solid and kept me interested throughout the book. The middle part had some pacing issues but the plot twist was amazing. Can't wait for the second book!
4.5 stars
Profile Image for Surah.
63 reviews10 followers
avoid
September 11, 2025
this author is sad for charlie kriks death🤡
Profile Image for M.A. Mashburn.
Author 2 books1 follower
April 12, 2024
The characters are very fun. I enjoyed their dynamics and chemistry. The time skips makes for compelling and entertaining storytelling!!
Profile Image for Amy Rietveld.
73 reviews2 followers
February 7, 2024
This book was SO GOOD! The ending ripped out my heart and I am extremely excited for the sequel! I NEED it!
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