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The Darkness Outside Us #2
The Brightness Between Us
In this sequel to The Darkness Outside Us, a Stonewall Honor Book, New York Times bestselling author Eliot Schrefer delivers another ambitious, genre-bending novel and epic love story that spans thousands of years and the far reaches of the galaxy.
Seventeen years have gone by since the Coordinated Endeavor crashed on a distant exoplanet. Ambrose Cusk and Kodiak Celius are now the devoted parents of two teenage children, Owl and Yarrow, in a hardscrabble frontier home. Though life on Minerva is full of danger, the family’s bond is enough to make it all worth it—until they learn that the biggest threat to their survival might come from within.
More than thirty thousand years in the past, Ambrose wakes on Earth to find that his mission to save his sister was a ruse. His mother betrayed him, and the truth of her plan—to send twenty clones of him to continue human civilization thousands of light-years away—sets Ambrose spiraling. When he discovers that another spacefarer is suffering his same fate, he will have to decide whether to risk crossing a world at war to reach him.
Separated by time and space, a young family and two strangers learn that their lives are intimately intertwined. They race to uncover the unexpected connections that might save them all . . . and perhaps humanity as well.
Seventeen years have gone by since the Coordinated Endeavor crashed on a distant exoplanet. Ambrose Cusk and Kodiak Celius are now the devoted parents of two teenage children, Owl and Yarrow, in a hardscrabble frontier home. Though life on Minerva is full of danger, the family’s bond is enough to make it all worth it—until they learn that the biggest threat to their survival might come from within.
More than thirty thousand years in the past, Ambrose wakes on Earth to find that his mission to save his sister was a ruse. His mother betrayed him, and the truth of her plan—to send twenty clones of him to continue human civilization thousands of light-years away—sets Ambrose spiraling. When he discovers that another spacefarer is suffering his same fate, he will have to decide whether to risk crossing a world at war to reach him.
Separated by time and space, a young family and two strangers learn that their lives are intimately intertwined. They race to uncover the unexpected connections that might save them all . . . and perhaps humanity as well.
464 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2024
553 people are currently reading
14661 people want to read
About the author
Eliot Schrefer
43 books1,628 followersELIOT SCHREFER is a New York Times-bestselling author, and has twice been a finalist for the National Book Award. In naming him an Editor’s Choice, the New York Times has called his work “dazzling… big-hearted.” He is also the author of two novels for adults and four other novels for children and young adults. His books have been named to the NPR “best of the year” list, the ALA best fiction list for young adults, and the Chicago Public Library’s “Best of the Best.” His work has also been selected to the Amelia Bloomer List, recognizing best feminist books for young readers, and he has been a finalist for the Walden Award and won the Green Earth Book Award and Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award. He lives in New York City, where he reviews books for USAToday.
Also: I love marshmallows and early twentieth century fiction. And apes.
Also: I love marshmallows and early twentieth century fiction. And apes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,290 reviews
July 30, 2024
did eliot schrefer wake up one day and think "i did not sufficiently emotionally devastate the world" or
post read: eliot turn on your location i just want to talk
post read: eliot turn on your location i just want to talk
May 5, 2024
[5 stars but I might be a teensy bit biased.]
I know THE DARKNESS OUTSIDE US didn't exactly scream out for a sequel. Sequels are risky: for every ALIENS there's also a GREASE 2 out there. I told myself that I wouldn’t continue the story of Ambrose and Kodiak unless I came up with a story concept that could stand up to the first book on its own, that wasn’t simply “Day 2” of the storyline. For two years, that good-enough story idea didn’t come, so I told my editor a sequel wasn't going to happen.
In the meantime, I spent a lot of time on this site. I know the general advice is that writers shouldn’t read their reader reviews. I think that’s good advice, I really do. I GIVE that advice. I didn’t take it, though, and found myself reading every single review I could find of TDOU, even the scathing ones... and I actually got a lot out of the experience. If you left a review for that book, I've read it. I chuckled when someone said the real horror in the novel was that there was no moisturizer on the ship. I got a nice little “mission accomplished” feeling when someone said that the book was like the movie Interstellar—if it came out as queer and then pushed them down the stairs.
We writers know the book we’ve written, but it’s hard to know the book that gets read. Marinating in your responses to TDOU helped me figure out what the novel was about from the reader’s end. I let my subconscious bubble away, and one day it provided a story idea that wouldn't let me go, and I knew I'd be writing it.
There’s a moment in TDOU when Ambrose decides that “intimacy is the only shield against insanity. Intimacy, not knowledge. Intimacy, not power.” This book very much takes that idea as its launching point. How does humankind survive itself—and should we? I think the answer to the second part of that question is (a complicated) yes . . . and it’s hard to imagine a version of that answer that doesn’t have intimacy and family and love threaded all the way through it.
Thank you for coming back into this world. I can’t wait to know what you think.
Yours truly,
Eliot
I know THE DARKNESS OUTSIDE US didn't exactly scream out for a sequel. Sequels are risky: for every ALIENS there's also a GREASE 2 out there. I told myself that I wouldn’t continue the story of Ambrose and Kodiak unless I came up with a story concept that could stand up to the first book on its own, that wasn’t simply “Day 2” of the storyline. For two years, that good-enough story idea didn’t come, so I told my editor a sequel wasn't going to happen.
In the meantime, I spent a lot of time on this site. I know the general advice is that writers shouldn’t read their reader reviews. I think that’s good advice, I really do. I GIVE that advice. I didn’t take it, though, and found myself reading every single review I could find of TDOU, even the scathing ones... and I actually got a lot out of the experience. If you left a review for that book, I've read it. I chuckled when someone said the real horror in the novel was that there was no moisturizer on the ship. I got a nice little “mission accomplished” feeling when someone said that the book was like the movie Interstellar—if it came out as queer and then pushed them down the stairs.
We writers know the book we’ve written, but it’s hard to know the book that gets read. Marinating in your responses to TDOU helped me figure out what the novel was about from the reader’s end. I let my subconscious bubble away, and one day it provided a story idea that wouldn't let me go, and I knew I'd be writing it.
There’s a moment in TDOU when Ambrose decides that “intimacy is the only shield against insanity. Intimacy, not knowledge. Intimacy, not power.” This book very much takes that idea as its launching point. How does humankind survive itself—and should we? I think the answer to the second part of that question is (a complicated) yes . . . and it’s hard to imagine a version of that answer that doesn’t have intimacy and family and love threaded all the way through it.
Thank you for coming back into this world. I can’t wait to know what you think.
Yours truly,
Eliot
October 26, 2024
How easily I pushed that five star button …
Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.
Ambrose Cusk
I often have difficulties getting into a highly anticipated read. My eyes want to roam over the pages in just a few seconds to get to the next page, scared they won’t deliver what I’m hoping for. At the same time, I don’t want to read further because I’m too afraid the story will be over too soon. Starting a highly anticipated book can be a challenge.
So, I was a mess while reading Owl’s POV in part 1. I only calmed down when I met Ambrose in part 2. Oh, sweet Ambrose. So lost and constantly in search of intimacy. And then suddenly, I was with Yarrow, and my heart broke. Kodiak mended it a little, but then I got back to Owl, and my fragile heart fell into a million pieces again.
Somewhere along the road, a thought entered my mind. I didn’t think anything when I read the blurb—or the author’s note. But, burrowing myself more and more in this book, my comparison to Cloud Cuckoo Land in my review of The Darkness Outside Us sparked up in my head. People separated by time and space. And then it clicked. IT CLICKED. Eliot, did my review ignite a spark in your brain to write this sequel??? Because … because … Owl and the guns firing at …and even Cuckoo in the sky. Are those Easter Eggs? Or maybe this is me trying to prove my own theory.
Back to the story because it is again a brilliant masterpiece. Don’t expect as many plot twists as the prequel has. Instead, this book leans far more on the first quote in this review (from The Darkness Outside Us):
Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.
The Brightness Between Us made me laugh, made me cry, and made me laugh-cry. It’s about humanity in all its forms. About surviving as human beings in a world that’s decaying. About surviving in a new world with only a few people around. But most of all this story is about loneliness, (found) family, grief, and the human connections we seek, to live on. So, even though this is a Sci-Fi book, it’s deeply human.
Now I need that movie ASAP. Or a third book. Or preferably both.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, HarperCollins International, for this ARC. I was so happy you let me read this sequel early. You definitely made my day!
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Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.
Ambrose Cusk
I often have difficulties getting into a highly anticipated read. My eyes want to roam over the pages in just a few seconds to get to the next page, scared they won’t deliver what I’m hoping for. At the same time, I don’t want to read further because I’m too afraid the story will be over too soon. Starting a highly anticipated book can be a challenge.
So, I was a mess while reading Owl’s POV in part 1. I only calmed down when I met Ambrose in part 2. Oh, sweet Ambrose. So lost and constantly in search of intimacy. And then suddenly, I was with Yarrow, and my heart broke. Kodiak mended it a little, but then I got back to Owl, and my fragile heart fell into a million pieces again.
Somewhere along the road, a thought entered my mind. I didn’t think anything when I read the blurb—or the author’s note. But, burrowing myself more and more in this book, my comparison to Cloud Cuckoo Land in my review of The Darkness Outside Us sparked up in my head. People separated by time and space. And then it clicked. IT CLICKED. Eliot, did my review ignite a spark in your brain to write this sequel??? Because … because … Owl and the guns firing at …and even Cuckoo in the sky. Are those Easter Eggs? Or maybe this is me trying to prove my own theory.
Back to the story because it is again a brilliant masterpiece. Don’t expect as many plot twists as the prequel has. Instead, this book leans far more on the first quote in this review (from The Darkness Outside Us):
Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.
The Brightness Between Us made me laugh, made me cry, and made me laugh-cry. It’s about humanity in all its forms. About surviving as human beings in a world that’s decaying. About surviving in a new world with only a few people around. But most of all this story is about loneliness, (found) family, grief, and the human connections we seek, to live on. So, even though this is a Sci-Fi book, it’s deeply human.
Now I need that movie ASAP. Or a third book. Or preferably both.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, HarperCollins International, for this ARC. I was so happy you let me read this sequel early. You definitely made my day!
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October 23, 2025
I feel like these two age the definition of “I will find you in every life time (threat)”
BUT HOW LUCKY ARE WE that we get to meet Kodiak and Ambrose in every life and fall in love with them over and over whilst they fall in love over and over. SQUEEEEEEEEEEE.
Every variation of them, is perfect.
And there is a charm in the fact that they all seem to different but so unequivocally them? At the same time?
The thing I wish I’d known about this book going in though, is that kodiak and Ambrose are not the main characters. They’re more than side characters because we already know and love them, but they really do just be passenger princesses in this book.
Which makes sense, but also makes me sad? But I love our new MCs also…. So it’s okay 😇
This book was WRACKED with mystery and I felt tense ALL THE DAMN TIME.
Be aware: when you find out what the title is 😭😭😭 brooooooooooo I wasn’t readyyyyyyyyy
pre read:
Crying screaming and throwing up over that cover reveal. Please do not talk to me for 3-5 business weeks so I can process.
BUT HOW LUCKY ARE WE that we get to meet Kodiak and Ambrose in every life and fall in love with them over and over whilst they fall in love over and over. SQUEEEEEEEEEEE.
Every variation of them, is perfect.
And there is a charm in the fact that they all seem to different but so unequivocally them? At the same time?
The thing I wish I’d known about this book going in though, is that kodiak and Ambrose are not the main characters. They’re more than side characters because we already know and love them, but they really do just be passenger princesses in this book.
Which makes sense, but also makes me sad? But I love our new MCs also…. So it’s okay 😇
This book was WRACKED with mystery and I felt tense ALL THE DAMN TIME.
Be aware: when you find out what the title is 😭😭😭 brooooooooooo I wasn’t readyyyyyyyyy
pre read:
Crying screaming and throwing up over that cover reveal. Please do not talk to me for 3-5 business weeks so I can process.
September 21, 2024
E-ARC generously provided by HarperCollins Children's Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much!
4.5 stars. Harrowing, a bit tragic, but ultimately about hope, family, and humanity's ability to persevere in even the most unlikely of circumstances, The Brightness Between Us is a brilliant sequel to a sci-fi duology that I will absolutely be revisiting in the future.
4.5 stars. Harrowing, a bit tragic, but ultimately about hope, family, and humanity's ability to persevere in even the most unlikely of circumstances, The Brightness Between Us is a brilliant sequel to a sci-fi duology that I will absolutely be revisiting in the future.
November 5, 2024
“I will live in these current moments as fully as possible. Then I will be gone. Ambrose will be gone. . .It arrives. The brightness between us.”
i was beyond excited to finally get my hands on this considering Darkness was one of my top 5 reads of last year and while i enjoyed this book, it sadly didn’t elicit any strong emotions in me as i was hoping :/
THE PLOT
the book has a decent pacing with multiple povs with two new characters but it’s less engaging than Darkness. the story is told in shifting timelines which slowed things down considerably. definitely a lot less action packed too with more emphasis on the politicking and technical aspects. there’s a general sense of unease in the beginning chapters that made me curious to know what would happen next. it almost feels like i’m reading an extended epilogue or prequel novella of sorts. i strongly believe that the previous book should’ve been a standalone but i’m not complaining because i love the characters dearly and didn’t mind reading this one even though nothing too crazy happened.
THE CHARACTERS
ambrose as always was sunshine in human form. he was the life of the party and the optimist in the family. i liked that he was the glue that kept everyone together and voice of reason. i enjoyed his witty personality in both books and was happy to know that not much had changed about him.
kodiak was my favourite character in the book and duology as a whole. there are so many different facets to him and i enjoyed watching them get peeled off one by one. he’s a very multidimensional character and underneath that tough persona he’s just a softie who wants to vulnerable about his feelings.
owl was childish and overly optimistic at times but she’s a kid so i suppose that’s to be expected. her POV was very joyful and honest. it highkey felt like i was reading an autobiography or a journal rather than chapters in a book. by the end of the book though her personality felt more developed.
yarrow who is another new character that we get introduced to had a rather dark POV and his thoughts bordered on lunacy which a total shift from the previous narratives of other characters. after we learn why he’s that way, it’s easy warming up to him.
FINAL THOUGHTS
overall, Brightness is a cozy sci fi read with low stakes that didn’t quite live up to my expectations but i still had a fun time being back in the world. if you loved ambrose and kodiak from book 1 then you’ll find this sequel heartwarming because it’s 90% character driven. with that said, i wouldn’t mind a third instalment in the series so long as the story doesn’t get watered down any further.
October 6, 2024
4.5***** stars
Tell me whatever you want but I don’t believe we’ve seen the last of this family yet.
Buckle up people for when young Kodiak and Ambrose on earth are trying to save their other selfs and their assumed family 30 000 years in the future while in said future young son Yarrow battles dark thoughts and young daughter Owl the Dads for freedom to explore their home planet.
A lot of topics were handled here, at times tragic and heartbreaking but with a lot of human grace, kindness and love, fascinatingly wrapped up in this captivating sequel that comes once again with a fantastic audio version.
***************
Book 1 - The Darkness Outside Us - 4.75 stars
Book 2 - The Brightness Between Us - 4.5 stars
--- pre-read note ---
MY AUDIO JUST GOT DELIVERED!! LET'S GOOOHOOOO. 😍
Tell me whatever you want but I don’t believe we’ve seen the last of this family yet.
Buckle up people for when young Kodiak and Ambrose on earth are trying to save their other selfs and their assumed family 30 000 years in the future while in said future young son Yarrow battles dark thoughts and young daughter Owl the Dads for freedom to explore their home planet.
A lot of topics were handled here, at times tragic and heartbreaking but with a lot of human grace, kindness and love, fascinatingly wrapped up in this captivating sequel that comes once again with a fantastic audio version.
***************
Book 1 - The Darkness Outside Us - 4.75 stars
Book 2 - The Brightness Between Us - 4.5 stars
--- pre-read note ---
MY AUDIO JUST GOT DELIVERED!! LET'S GOOOHOOOO. 😍
July 18, 2024
If The Darkness Outside Us was a sci-fi thriller romance, then The Brightness Between Us is a sci-fi (pre)apocalyptic novel that's both dystopian and hopeful 🌌🚀🌎
(spoilers for the prequel TDOU, no spoilers beyond the blurb for TBBU!)
"We’re all alone on this patch of soil, on this planet, solar system, galaxy. The universe is so enormous, all around me, that I keep shrinking the more that I think about the scale of it."
The Brightness Between Us is about humanity, intimacy, family, survival, power, and colonialism. Which sounds a lot like TDOU but this is notably different - mainly it's not a romance and there are less twists. Additionally, there are several POVs and settings that we switch between throughout the book.
Brightness is also focused on identity, socialization (or lack thereof), and family during the Minerva parts which are told through the children's POVs. Where in the prequel, Ambrose and Kodiak were tasked with carrying on humanity, that torch is gradually being passed to their children who've never known life on Earth, or any life besides on a likely desolate planet.
Meanwhile, back on Earth 30K years prior, we meet the original Ambrose and Kodiak as they're finding out their clones were sent into space, not on a rescue mission, but to colonize a new planet. The two have very different reactions to this news but still have to figure out whether they want anything to do with each other amidst chaotic conditions.
"Somewhere out there, maybe right now, millions of years away, in the void of space, a version of me is being woken up next to a version of him, these two beings who are intimately connected and nothing alike."
Brightness is an amazing book! TDOU is one of my fave reads so I had high expectations for this one, and Eliot Schrefer did a great job exploring his ideas of "how does humankind survive itself? - and should we?"! The book had me both crying and laughing, and I loved being back with Kodiak and Ambrose. I highly recommend rereading TDOU before reading Brightness as remembering the events of the first book is a bonus.
While the book is fantastic, there are a few things I wish we'd gotten a bit more of. I would've loved Kodiak's and Ambrose's POVs on Minerva as I really wanted to reconnect with them and not just see them through their children's eyes. I did love finally getting Kodiak's POV on Earth but I would've also loved some of Ambrose's thoughts while they were together. It's only wishful thinking though because I love these boys so much, and I can never get enough of them ❤️
Speaking of possibly wishful thinking, while Brightness felt complete, the story itself is definitely not over. Brightness certainly laid the groundwork for more exploration of humanity, identity, and survival on Minerva with the Celius-Cusk family and I, for one, would absolutely love another book in this series!
The Brightness Between Us by Eliot Schrefer // ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Thanks to HarperCollins International, and Edelweiss for the ARC. The Brightness Between Us is out October 1
(spoilers for the prequel TDOU, no spoilers beyond the blurb for TBBU!)
"We’re all alone on this patch of soil, on this planet, solar system, galaxy. The universe is so enormous, all around me, that I keep shrinking the more that I think about the scale of it."
The Brightness Between Us is about humanity, intimacy, family, survival, power, and colonialism. Which sounds a lot like TDOU but this is notably different - mainly it's not a romance and there are less twists. Additionally, there are several POVs and settings that we switch between throughout the book.
Brightness is also focused on identity, socialization (or lack thereof), and family during the Minerva parts which are told through the children's POVs. Where in the prequel, Ambrose and Kodiak were tasked with carrying on humanity, that torch is gradually being passed to their children who've never known life on Earth, or any life besides on a likely desolate planet.
Meanwhile, back on Earth 30K years prior, we meet the original Ambrose and Kodiak as they're finding out their clones were sent into space, not on a rescue mission, but to colonize a new planet. The two have very different reactions to this news but still have to figure out whether they want anything to do with each other amidst chaotic conditions.
"Somewhere out there, maybe right now, millions of years away, in the void of space, a version of me is being woken up next to a version of him, these two beings who are intimately connected and nothing alike."
Brightness is an amazing book! TDOU is one of my fave reads so I had high expectations for this one, and Eliot Schrefer did a great job exploring his ideas of "how does humankind survive itself? - and should we?"! The book had me both crying and laughing, and I loved being back with Kodiak and Ambrose. I highly recommend rereading TDOU before reading Brightness as remembering the events of the first book is a bonus.
While the book is fantastic, there are a few things I wish we'd gotten a bit more of. I would've loved Kodiak's and Ambrose's POVs on Minerva as I really wanted to reconnect with them and not just see them through their children's eyes. I did love finally getting Kodiak's POV on Earth but I would've also loved some of Ambrose's thoughts while they were together. It's only wishful thinking though because I love these boys so much, and I can never get enough of them ❤️
Speaking of possibly wishful thinking, while Brightness felt complete, the story itself is definitely not over. Brightness certainly laid the groundwork for more exploration of humanity, identity, and survival on Minerva with the Celius-Cusk family and I, for one, would absolutely love another book in this series!
The Brightness Between Us by Eliot Schrefer // ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Thanks to HarperCollins International, and Edelweiss for the ARC. The Brightness Between Us is out October 1
September 12, 2024
I can’t believe I got an arc for this. I’m at peak existence.
THE PREMISE: mysteries, now and then time jumps, and lots of impending doom.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Multi-pov. This book is a family affair. I love Owl
- *It’s always you, in every lifetime*
- World building that’s so catastrophically good, every other science fiction writer should just sit down
- I had to put this down for a few days because it made me so anxious [affectionate]
- The in-text title reveal nearly had me crying in a hotel room at 10pm
- Somehow Eliot’s writing has gotten even better
I loved this. I would also now like a third book, please and thank you.
5⭐️ No 🌶️
THE PREMISE: mysteries, now and then time jumps, and lots of impending doom.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Multi-pov. This book is a family affair. I love Owl
- *It’s always you, in every lifetime*
- World building that’s so catastrophically good, every other science fiction writer should just sit down
- I had to put this down for a few days because it made me so anxious [affectionate]
- The in-text title reveal nearly had me crying in a hotel room at 10pm
- Somehow Eliot’s writing has gotten even better
I loved this. I would also now like a third book, please and thank you.
5⭐️ No 🌶️
October 20, 2024
they found each other in every universe……
While this book isn’t as mysterious, scary, grand and gut-punching as book 1, I still really enjoyed it! I liked seeing the stories from the different timelines converging, and I loved seeing that glimpse of Earth (something that left me really curious ever since book 1).
My favourite section was for sure OG Ambrose and Kodiak’s story (although I have to say that that use of the title at the end of this section was absolutely DIABOLICAL).
Definitely a great sequel. I wish we got to see more of these characters, though! I want to see Yarrow getting better, and Owl exploring Minerva!!! 🥺
(20/10/2024)
----------------
WHY DID NO ONE TELL ME THIS WAS HAPPENING???!?!!??!!??!?!?!
(18/01/2024)
While this book isn’t as mysterious, scary, grand and gut-punching as book 1, I still really enjoyed it! I liked seeing the stories from the different timelines converging, and I loved seeing that glimpse of Earth (something that left me really curious ever since book 1).
My favourite section was for sure OG Ambrose and Kodiak’s story (although I have to say that that use of the title at the end of this section was absolutely DIABOLICAL).
Definitely a great sequel. I wish we got to see more of these characters, though! I want to see Yarrow getting better, and Owl exploring Minerva!!! 🥺
(20/10/2024)
----------------
WHY DID NO ONE TELL ME THIS WAS HAPPENING???!?!!??!!??!?!?!
(18/01/2024)
September 10, 2024
The Brightness Between Us is the sequel to The Darkness Outside Us, and I am enamoured. As usual, I finished the book at an ungodly hour at 1am last night, tears flowing down my face as I was rapt with all the emotions. It’s easy for me to say that I absolutely loved it and is very worthy of a 5 star rating.
The story itself feels like the perfect continuation of the first book, building on the blocks we already established, whilst also providing a fresh, exhilarating, intriguing, and exciting storyline that also interweaves with the first book. It’s so very well done and I applaud Eliot on his ability to have created a sequel that achieves this. It’s not easy for a sequel to do just as well, so I think all of the elements he had were the perfect combination.
I really enjoy Eliot's writing, he makes the story so consumable, making you hungry for more. I think the pacing is medium, and really picks up near the end, which is where you want it because it just elevates your emotions and reactions to what's happening.
I won’t say much else as I don’t want to spoil and the book itself comes out in three weeks time (October 1), but it’s one that I think fans of the first book will absolutely eat up.
The story itself feels like the perfect continuation of the first book, building on the blocks we already established, whilst also providing a fresh, exhilarating, intriguing, and exciting storyline that also interweaves with the first book. It’s so very well done and I applaud Eliot on his ability to have created a sequel that achieves this. It’s not easy for a sequel to do just as well, so I think all of the elements he had were the perfect combination.
I really enjoy Eliot's writing, he makes the story so consumable, making you hungry for more. I think the pacing is medium, and really picks up near the end, which is where you want it because it just elevates your emotions and reactions to what's happening.
I won’t say much else as I don’t want to spoil and the book itself comes out in three weeks time (October 1), but it’s one that I think fans of the first book will absolutely eat up.
June 18, 2025
“This world is too heavy not to treat it as lightly as we can.”
i was wondering what this would offer, book one didn’t really strike me as something that needed a sequel. thankfully, this was just as good as the first book and i fell in love with these characters and now, their family, all over again. to think that Ambrose and Kodiak continue to choose each other every. single. time. is just beautiful. when their son goes rouge and tries to kill the rest of his family, they notice a holo signal offering help. it’s really clever the way the author intertwines these timelines, i also loved the flashbacks and the turns this took in the latter half, the tone is balanced so well too.
i was wondering what this would offer, book one didn’t really strike me as something that needed a sequel. thankfully, this was just as good as the first book and i fell in love with these characters and now, their family, all over again. to think that Ambrose and Kodiak continue to choose each other every. single. time. is just beautiful. when their son goes rouge and tries to kill the rest of his family, they notice a holo signal offering help. it’s really clever the way the author intertwines these timelines, i also loved the flashbacks and the turns this took in the latter half, the tone is balanced so well too.
February 12, 2025
I spent the last half an hour staring at a wall and trying desperately to collect my thoughts for this review. So, here we go:
This book had all of the elements I loved in the first one: twists that kept me on my toes, moments that left me genuinely shocked, and an emotional gut punch that I felt down to my very soul. Eliot Schrefer does an incredible job weaving suspense and heart into this story, and I was completely invested from page one.
We get two different timelines and a few POVs in this one with Kodiak’s especially outstanding to me - and not just because the way James Fouhey narrates him is so sexy… Yeah okay, maybe a little 😏
Anyway, I loved the way we explored many new aspects of earths aesthetics, technology and especially politics while simultaneously seeing the effects of these political agencies in all their horrific glory 30.000 years in the future.
And I continue to love Kodiak and Ambrose, maaan these two have my heart 😭♥️
That said, while the story was gripping, there were a few things that kept it from being a full five stars for me. Some of the major obstacles were resolved a little too easily, and I found myself wanting more depth or explanation in certain areas. A few background details felt glossed over, and I couldn’t help but wish for just a bit more complexity in those moments. I also wanted, no needed a much happier ending with much more closure after all they had to suffer through. PLEASE TELL ME THERE WILL BE A THIRD BOOK?!? Ugh… 😩
In general I’d say this was even less a YA romance than the first one, but instead a beautiful story of connection, resilience and survival and the unbreakable bonds that form in the face of unimaginable hardship. It’s raw, emotional, and at times brutal but in the end, it’s also a testament to the quiet, stubborn hope that keeps us going.
So yeah, not as good as the first one in my opinion but still really fucking great. What made reading this book so incredibly special and fun and exciting though was my lovely girl Teru, with whom I BR this! The live reactions, the shared shock, all the theories we spun, the moments where we had to pause and scream about what just happened, made this one of the best reading experiences of my life. THANK YOU GIRL, LOVE YOU, WHEN IS THE NEXT BR?? 😭♥️
So, if you’re thinking of picking this up, I highly recommend reading it with a friend. It turns an already great book into something quite unforgettable.
This book had all of the elements I loved in the first one: twists that kept me on my toes, moments that left me genuinely shocked, and an emotional gut punch that I felt down to my very soul. Eliot Schrefer does an incredible job weaving suspense and heart into this story, and I was completely invested from page one.
We get two different timelines and a few POVs in this one with Kodiak’s especially outstanding to me - and not just because the way James Fouhey narrates him is so sexy… Yeah okay, maybe a little 😏
Anyway, I loved the way we explored many new aspects of earths aesthetics, technology and especially politics while simultaneously seeing the effects of these political agencies in all their horrific glory 30.000 years in the future.
And I continue to love Kodiak and Ambrose, maaan these two have my heart 😭♥️
That said, while the story was gripping, there were a few things that kept it from being a full five stars for me. Some of the major obstacles were resolved a little too easily, and I found myself wanting more depth or explanation in certain areas. A few background details felt glossed over, and I couldn’t help but wish for just a bit more complexity in those moments. I also wanted, no needed a much happier ending with much more closure after all they had to suffer through. PLEASE TELL ME THERE WILL BE A THIRD BOOK?!? Ugh… 😩
In general I’d say this was even less a YA romance than the first one, but instead a beautiful story of connection, resilience and survival and the unbreakable bonds that form in the face of unimaginable hardship. It’s raw, emotional, and at times brutal but in the end, it’s also a testament to the quiet, stubborn hope that keeps us going.
So yeah, not as good as the first one in my opinion but still really fucking great. What made reading this book so incredibly special and fun and exciting though was my lovely girl Teru, with whom I BR this! The live reactions, the shared shock, all the theories we spun, the moments where we had to pause and scream about what just happened, made this one of the best reading experiences of my life. THANK YOU GIRL, LOVE YOU, WHEN IS THE NEXT BR?? 😭♥️
So, if you’re thinking of picking this up, I highly recommend reading it with a friend. It turns an already great book into something quite unforgettable.
October 5, 2024
DON'T MIND ME I'LL JUST BE SOBBING IN THE CORNER TRYING TO GET OVER THIS BOOK 😭
If The Darkness Outside Us was like getting hit by a car, then The Brightness Between Us was like having the car that hit you back up and try again. Just to be clear, Eliot Schrefer is driving the car. I say this with love, please, Eliot, shift into drive again and make it third time's a charm because I'm going to need book three to round out my destruction.
Joking aside, I cannot say enough good things about this book 💙💙💙 I always try to manage my expectations for sequels, especially for books near and dear to me, because it's hard to recapture that first book magic, but TBBU far exceeded anything I could have hoped for and more. I went into TBBU having no preconceived notions about what I thought the plot would be because after having read TDOU, I knew better. Now, having read it, I can say with confidence that had I tried, I would have been laughably wrong about all of it. Just like with TDOU, TBBU pulled the rug out from under me when I least expected it 🤯
There's not a lot that can be said about the plot without giving too much away, so I won't delve into any specifics aside from one thing below under the spoiler tag. BUT! It is THE SPOILER of them all. Do not click unless you've read the book because it will 100% ruin the twist for you.
What I can say is that feelings of love and family are woven throughout the entire book. We get to see sides of Ambrose and Kodiak I never expected. The story is presented in a unique way that has the reader jumping between past and present and shifting between POVs. I was completely caught up in the story in a way that had me wanting to race through it as fast as possible while also never wanting it to end. I love these characters so much I wasn't ready to let them go. I already loved Ambrose and Kodiak, but Owl and Yarrow quickly stole places in my heart. I loved everything we were given in TBBU, but I was left wanting so much more. I need book three like I need air to breathe 🥹
If The Darkness Outside Us was like getting hit by a car, then The Brightness Between Us was like having the car that hit you back up and try again. Just to be clear, Eliot Schrefer is driving the car. I say this with love, please, Eliot, shift into drive again and make it third time's a charm because I'm going to need book three to round out my destruction.
Joking aside, I cannot say enough good things about this book 💙💙💙 I always try to manage my expectations for sequels, especially for books near and dear to me, because it's hard to recapture that first book magic, but TBBU far exceeded anything I could have hoped for and more. I went into TBBU having no preconceived notions about what I thought the plot would be because after having read TDOU, I knew better. Now, having read it, I can say with confidence that had I tried, I would have been laughably wrong about all of it. Just like with TDOU, TBBU pulled the rug out from under me when I least expected it 🤯
There's not a lot that can be said about the plot without giving too much away, so I won't delve into any specifics aside from one thing below under the spoiler tag. BUT! It is THE SPOILER of them all. Do not click unless you've read the book because it will 100% ruin the twist for you.
What I can say is that feelings of love and family are woven throughout the entire book. We get to see sides of Ambrose and Kodiak I never expected. The story is presented in a unique way that has the reader jumping between past and present and shifting between POVs. I was completely caught up in the story in a way that had me wanting to race through it as fast as possible while also never wanting it to end. I love these characters so much I wasn't ready to let them go. I already loved Ambrose and Kodiak, but Owl and Yarrow quickly stole places in my heart. I loved everything we were given in TBBU, but I was left wanting so much more. I need book three like I need air to breathe 🥹
February 12, 2025
First of all – I buddy-read this with amazing and beautiful and kind Pauline and I can’t thank her enough because it made the overall reading experience a BLAST 💥 Love you girl, thanks for all the discussions and theories ❤️ I would have to stare at the wall way longer without you 😂
This book, I swear. The general theme could be summed up as “Could Ambrose and Kodiak finally catch a break for fuck’s sake?!” Fun times! 👌 I will be as ambiguous in this review as possible so I won’t spoil anything.
The Brightness Between Us (oh and do I have a beef with the title, Mr Schrefer is cruel 😟) was such an emotional rollercoaster that led me through ups and downs...and more downs. Because OUCH. Not only do we watch our lovely boys Ambrose and Kodiak suffer, no, Mr Schrefer said it’s not enough, so we add to the melee two teenage kids, Owl and Yarrow.
Normally I’m not a fan of switching both POVs and timelines but here, the way the story was written worked so well. We follow not just this little family of four on an exoplanet living peacefully (ahahaHAHA🙃), but we also go back in time on Earth to the original Ambrose and Kodiak, to get a glimpse of how that shitshow went down! Would they meet, and how would they tolerate each other out of the forced proximity of being on the ship together in book 1? I loved seeing the original boys because they truly felt like different human beings.
As you can imagine, shit is going down on all fronts in some ways and you’re left gaping and gasping and scrambling your brain for possible theories. As I said, fun times! The plot felt a little bit convoluted at times but smart and well-thought-out enough to leave me in awe.
I especially loved the moral dilemma of human colonization of a different planet. After what we’ve done to Earth, do we deserve a second chance? Should such a mission even happen? And if we somehow manage to sabotage it, what of the people sent on the mission and therefore doomed? Is their suffering okay if it means a planet will be potentially saved from humans? Do they even matter, or are their lives just collateral damage?
„Why would they have done this to me? What did I do to deserve it?“
Huh, I almost continued staring at the wall here.
However...I have to admit I wanted more. More bonding in general (I’m so sorry but sex talk isn’t truly bonding to me...but it showed their age I guess), more insight into what exactly was happening on Earth, just...more. And an epilogue would’ve been nice, come on! As ifwe they didn’t suffer enough! It’s also my main reason for not giving it five stars, I was left a bit too unsatisfied.
There were some questionable details and convenient moments that required suspending disbelief, but honestly, I think that goes hand in hand with the whole sci-fi genre.
And Yarrow...sweet gentle Yarrow. This boy exists to break our collective hearts, no other way to say it. Yet still, I love him to bits 😩❤️
AND a bit of a spoiler as a treat – get ready for KODIAK’S POV!!! 😍
This book, I swear. The general theme could be summed up as “Could Ambrose and Kodiak finally catch a break for fuck’s sake?!” Fun times! 👌 I will be as ambiguous in this review as possible so I won’t spoil anything.
The Brightness Between Us (oh and do I have a beef with the title, Mr Schrefer is cruel 😟) was such an emotional rollercoaster that led me through ups and downs...and more downs. Because OUCH. Not only do we watch our lovely boys Ambrose and Kodiak suffer, no, Mr Schrefer said it’s not enough, so we add to the melee two teenage kids, Owl and Yarrow.
Normally I’m not a fan of switching both POVs and timelines but here, the way the story was written worked so well. We follow not just this little family of four on an exoplanet living peacefully (ahahaHAHA🙃), but we also go back in time on Earth to the original Ambrose and Kodiak, to get a glimpse of how that shitshow went down! Would they meet, and how would they tolerate each other out of the forced proximity of being on the ship together in book 1? I loved seeing the original boys because they truly felt like different human beings.
As you can imagine, shit is going down on all fronts in some ways and you’re left gaping and gasping and scrambling your brain for possible theories. As I said, fun times! The plot felt a little bit convoluted at times but smart and well-thought-out enough to leave me in awe.
I especially loved the moral dilemma of human colonization of a different planet. After what we’ve done to Earth, do we deserve a second chance? Should such a mission even happen? And if we somehow manage to sabotage it, what of the people sent on the mission and therefore doomed? Is their suffering okay if it means a planet will be potentially saved from humans? Do they even matter, or are their lives just collateral damage?
„Why would they have done this to me? What did I do to deserve it?“
Huh, I almost continued staring at the wall here.
However...I have to admit I wanted more. More bonding in general (I’m so sorry but sex talk isn’t truly bonding to me...but it showed their age I guess), more insight into what exactly was happening on Earth, just...more. And an epilogue would’ve been nice, come on! As if
There were some questionable details and convenient moments that required suspending disbelief, but honestly, I think that goes hand in hand with the whole sci-fi genre.
And Yarrow...sweet gentle Yarrow. This boy exists to break our collective hearts, no other way to say it. Yet still, I love him to bits 😩❤️
AND a bit of a spoiler as a treat – get ready for KODIAK’S POV!!! 😍
October 20, 2024
someone needs to lock up eliot schrefer for his crimes against my emotional wellbeing.
November 7, 2024
This is another great book by Schrefer. I actually think you might be able to read this book-2 in the series prior to book-1, as I reflect. Each book stands alone very well. While this one takes Ambrose and Kodiak further into their future, there are back-story chapters that tell of their past.
There are fewer intimacy-scenes in this book vs the The Darkness Outside Us, yet enough description to let your mind fill in the blanks. The book can remain unchallenged on a high school shelf.
I currently have my hands down the pants of the president of the Student Union for a Better Earth.
They are crucial to the plot as well.
The brightness between us.
We have Ambrose (Dad) and Kodiak (Father) as the parents of a 15 year old daughter Owl, and a turning-16 year old son Yarrow. They are both helpful with exploring and scientific research. Things are not as right as they wish on their new planet/home. It has been influenced by events in the long-distance past. The POV alternates nicely in both past/present and through each character, matching perfectly with the developing story-line.
Son Yarrow has his 16th birthday party and is learning pearls of wisdom.
Yarrow: What was it that Dad once said? Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.
Bigger philosophical questions arise as more is discovered about Earth in the past.
Maybe humanity is a scourge, and ought to be stopped, which means Satittarion Bb should fail. We should fail.
I like the words on young-Ambrose's chest on Earth: Labels are the Root of Violence. He is unquestionably 'out'.
This remains a Sci Fi story, similar to the way I think we were all surprised with how Book-1 (Darkness Outside Us) stayed Sci Fi. Its just very cool to have some queer characters. It is great to read words like these in a Sci Fi novel:
"Stop," I whisper, pushing a sodden branch back and forth, back and forth, with my foot. Part of me is angry at the effeminacy of what Ambrose is saying. Part of me feels it's mean for him to compare me to a piece of meat. And part of me want to coil around Ambrose as he says these words of desire, ask him to repeat them while I purr like a cat.
I had some tears in this book. I am extremely satisfied with how this story resolved. While this book ENDS, there is still room if Schrefer wants to keep running with this series. There are zygotes/embryos to incubate and grow up. Being genetically different, they can surely 'interact'. ;)
Solid 5*
There are fewer intimacy-scenes in this book vs the The Darkness Outside Us, yet enough description to let your mind fill in the blanks. The book can remain unchallenged on a high school shelf.
I currently have my hands down the pants of the president of the Student Union for a Better Earth.
They are crucial to the plot as well.
The brightness between us.
We have Ambrose (Dad) and Kodiak (Father) as the parents of a 15 year old daughter Owl, and a turning-16 year old son Yarrow. They are both helpful with exploring and scientific research. Things are not as right as they wish on their new planet/home. It has been influenced by events in the long-distance past. The POV alternates nicely in both past/present and through each character, matching perfectly with the developing story-line.
Son Yarrow has his 16th birthday party and is learning pearls of wisdom.
Yarrow: What was it that Dad once said? Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.
Bigger philosophical questions arise as more is discovered about Earth in the past.
Maybe humanity is a scourge, and ought to be stopped, which means Satittarion Bb should fail. We should fail.
I like the words on young-Ambrose's chest on Earth: Labels are the Root of Violence. He is unquestionably 'out'.
This remains a Sci Fi story, similar to the way I think we were all surprised with how Book-1 (Darkness Outside Us) stayed Sci Fi. Its just very cool to have some queer characters. It is great to read words like these in a Sci Fi novel:
"Stop," I whisper, pushing a sodden branch back and forth, back and forth, with my foot. Part of me is angry at the effeminacy of what Ambrose is saying. Part of me feels it's mean for him to compare me to a piece of meat. And part of me want to coil around Ambrose as he says these words of desire, ask him to repeat them while I purr like a cat.
I had some tears in this book. I am extremely satisfied with how this story resolved. While this book ENDS, there is still room if Schrefer wants to keep running with this series. There are zygotes/embryos to incubate and grow up. Being genetically different, they can surely 'interact'. ;)
Solid 5*
Want to read
January 18, 2024So scared because the Darkness Outside Us was perfect and didn't need a sequel??
November 28, 2024
Genius. 7 stars!
October 14, 2024
Putting this before reviews on a few of my recent reads:
Depression been stealing my energy to read like I did before but trying to be easier on myself (in this case, I got to spend more time with characters I loved so still all good).
------
Not much to say except this was an excellent sequel/prequel to the first book.
This one has a different pace than the first one and it feels shorter despite the fact it's not.. and also more.. far reaching I think is the right phrase.
I was unsure at first when I saw the Kodiak and Ambrose weren't narrating the present parts but once I got used to Owl and Yarrow, I was swept right along with it all :).
Despite knowing the outcome in the past Timeline, still felt myself hoping for a different outcome:(.
The storyline end on a bittersweet answer hopeful notes (not telling which is which) .
I'm hoping we get another book or novella with everyone... sad to say goodbye to these people 🫂.
There's a handful of revelations in the book and... whoah was my main reaction. I could see why the people in question though they were right and justified while also shaking my head.
Would recommend 👌 👍🏼 :)
Excited for the adaptation being made of the first book 📖 .
Depression been stealing my energy to read like I did before but trying to be easier on myself (in this case, I got to spend more time with characters I loved so still all good).
------
Not much to say except this was an excellent sequel/prequel to the first book.
This one has a different pace than the first one and it feels shorter despite the fact it's not.. and also more.. far reaching I think is the right phrase.
I was unsure at first when I saw the Kodiak and Ambrose weren't narrating the present parts but once I got used to Owl and Yarrow, I was swept right along with it all :).
Despite knowing the outcome in the past Timeline, still felt myself hoping for a different outcome:(.
The storyline end on a bittersweet answer hopeful notes (not telling which is which) .
I'm hoping we get another book or novella with everyone... sad to say goodbye to these people 🫂.
There's a handful of revelations in the book and... whoah was my main reaction. I could see why the people in question though they were right and justified while also shaking my head.
Would recommend 👌 👍🏼 :)
Excited for the adaptation being made of the first book 📖 .
August 5, 2024
4.5! Guess I'll just go stare at a wall for all of eternity!
January 1, 2025
✰ 3 stars ✰
“Sunrise is even more beautiful when you’re above it.”
The thing I look back fondly on when I recall reading Ambrose and Kodiak's story for the first time was the perfectly executed reveal that left me blind-sided.. Brilliantly done and viscerally built up upon that I still remember with vivid clarity how wow'd I was by it. 🥺
“We’re still going to make human choices, which will probably ‘repeat all that,’ whether or not you hide the past from us.”
Sometimes I equate my level of enjoyment of a read with how many notable quotes I highlight; perhaps, as one not quite a fan of science-fiction, there was not much that held up. However, it was still a very accessible read, despite the scientific jargon and hefty names that I kinda glazed over. 😣 Even with the narrative alternating between the present-day scenes and flashbacks, it was effectively heightened by the impending tension that was closing in on them.one that moved through the various timelines and perspectives easily. For the two things that I've found Eliot Schrefer excels in is building suspense and capturing the intensity of his characters' emotions in such a visceral way that it's tangible. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
And the tension was prevalent - the quiet inching forward of each cautious but trepidatious reveal was nicely done. It made each action feel more pointedly critical and mindful to be aware of. The gamut of feelings that overwhelmed Ambrose in the past was my favorite; the reaction, the whole interaction was so impactful that I felt for him so much. It was real and raw; the sequence of events that followed was that sharp cut of how the past was simultaneously coinciding with the future that made each reveal heightened and explained. 💔👌🏻
“Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.”
The cover gave me the impression that I would get a story featuring the older versions of these two fated souls; it does feel a bit misleading, too. It also made me wonder that considering the age dynamic how The Brightness Between Us would still be Young Adult-appropriate. 😕 So, it does make sense why rather than getting a first-hand glimpse into the parents' thoughts, we were instead treated with their children's perspectives, along with the younger versions of themselves before the initial launch.
Not wholly warranted, but understandable. 🤷🏻♀️
I liked that we got to see what really happened - a part of history that is both painful and heartbreaking, but sadly also the bittersweet inevitable truth. 🥺 Getting to even be privy to Ambrose and Kodiak in those final moments portrayed the depth of their resolve, as well as how broad their connection extended beyond the galaxies. True, there are moments of suspension of disbelief that one has to weigh in to explain how their paths ultimately crossed, but it made for some action-packed and tense scenes that also evoked a palpable feel to Ambrose's feelings which I wholly empathized with. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“There used to be an “us” in my world, and it got taken away by my own mind.”
Owl and Yarrow's storyline was alright - I was not too invested in them, but the sibling dynamic was intriguing enough to keep me curious to see how it would be resolved. It raises the question of what of humanity needs to be preserved, what influences of our past will affect our future survival. There is a predominant threat that also evades their means of survival, one that has them test the boundaries of their trust and the need for human connection in order to survive.
I liked that they both had different bonds with their parents - one that showed how each of them have certain traits, while also proving to be their own persons. 🫂 I just wish we could have seen some exchange between the parents, even within YA-restraints. It would have really tied the whole storyline in a more engaging way, and would have been interesting to see what their initial reactions were to the sudden changes and reveals being thrust upon them. 😞
I still appreciate the effort of continuing the story, albeit in a way not quite predicted, so kudos to that. It felt like there is a potential for the story to continue; Owl, maybe not so much, but it would be interesting to see how Yarrow would fare after the events that took place. And yes, I loved the little hints to where their namesakes came from; so bittersweet, but oddly fitting to think that even then, the thoughts traversed through time... 🪷
“Sunrise is even more beautiful when you’re above it.”
The thing I look back fondly on when I recall reading Ambrose and Kodiak's story for the first time was the perfectly executed reveal that left me blind-sided.. Brilliantly done and viscerally built up upon that I still remember with vivid clarity how wow'd I was by it. 🥺
“We’re still going to make human choices, which will probably ‘repeat all that,’ whether or not you hide the past from us.”
Sometimes I equate my level of enjoyment of a read with how many notable quotes I highlight; perhaps, as one not quite a fan of science-fiction, there was not much that held up. However, it was still a very accessible read, despite the scientific jargon and hefty names that I kinda glazed over. 😣 Even with the narrative alternating between the present-day scenes and flashbacks, it was effectively heightened by the impending tension that was closing in on them.one that moved through the various timelines and perspectives easily. For the two things that I've found Eliot Schrefer excels in is building suspense and capturing the intensity of his characters' emotions in such a visceral way that it's tangible. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
And the tension was prevalent - the quiet inching forward of each cautious but trepidatious reveal was nicely done. It made each action feel more pointedly critical and mindful to be aware of. The gamut of feelings that overwhelmed Ambrose in the past was my favorite; the reaction, the whole interaction was so impactful that I felt for him so much. It was real and raw; the sequence of events that followed was that sharp cut of how the past was simultaneously coinciding with the future that made each reveal heightened and explained. 💔👌🏻
“Intimacy is the only shield against insanity.”
The cover gave me the impression that I would get a story featuring the older versions of these two fated souls; it does feel a bit misleading, too. It also made me wonder that considering the age dynamic how The Brightness Between Us would still be Young Adult-appropriate. 😕 So, it does make sense why rather than getting a first-hand glimpse into the parents' thoughts, we were instead treated with their children's perspectives, along with the younger versions of themselves before the initial launch.
Not wholly warranted, but understandable. 🤷🏻♀️
I liked that we got to see what really happened - a part of history that is both painful and heartbreaking, but sadly also the bittersweet inevitable truth. 🥺 Getting to even be privy to Ambrose and Kodiak in those final moments portrayed the depth of their resolve, as well as how broad their connection extended beyond the galaxies. True, there are moments of suspension of disbelief that one has to weigh in to explain how their paths ultimately crossed, but it made for some action-packed and tense scenes that also evoked a palpable feel to Ambrose's feelings which I wholly empathized with. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“There used to be an “us” in my world, and it got taken away by my own mind.”
Owl and Yarrow's storyline was alright - I was not too invested in them, but the sibling dynamic was intriguing enough to keep me curious to see how it would be resolved. It raises the question of what of humanity needs to be preserved, what influences of our past will affect our future survival. There is a predominant threat that also evades their means of survival, one that has them test the boundaries of their trust and the need for human connection in order to survive.
I liked that they both had different bonds with their parents - one that showed how each of them have certain traits, while also proving to be their own persons. 🫂 I just wish we could have seen some exchange between the parents, even within YA-restraints. It would have really tied the whole storyline in a more engaging way, and would have been interesting to see what their initial reactions were to the sudden changes and reveals being thrust upon them. 😞
I still appreciate the effort of continuing the story, albeit in a way not quite predicted, so kudos to that. It felt like there is a potential for the story to continue; Owl, maybe not so much, but it would be interesting to see how Yarrow would fare after the events that took place. And yes, I loved the little hints to where their namesakes came from; so bittersweet, but oddly fitting to think that even then, the thoughts traversed through time... 🪷
October 2, 2024
this was SO good, it's so rare that a sequel completely elevates its predecessor. (especially when its predecessor didn't even need a sequel and stood on its own.)
I already liked book 1, but I absolutely loved this. The characters felt so fleshed out and the relationships felt real and complex (which was actually the only thing I thought was missing from the first book).
never getting over this. omg the emotions. I need 3-5 business days for the adrenaline to leave my body.
I already liked book 1, but I absolutely loved this. The characters felt so fleshed out and the relationships felt real and complex (which was actually the only thing I thought was missing from the first book).
never getting over this. omg the emotions. I need 3-5 business days for the adrenaline to leave my body.
February 19, 2025
LA SUITE NOWWWWW
October 12, 2024
The Darkness Outside Us was my favorite read last year and is high up on my list of favorite books. This sequel did not disappoint. I finished it last night and today I find myself thinking about the last few chapters and feeling emotional. The first book stayed with me for quite a few days after I finished it too—always the sign of a good book in my opinion. Very very easily a five star read.
June 7, 2025
This is a sequel to The Darkness Outside Us, a fantastic book I recommend to anybody who thinks they might like YA-tinged science fiction (the YA touches are not the usual things). And if that sounds interesting, read the original as "cold" of spoilers as possible, to the point of not reading about this sequel.
So just for the readers of the first book, that is a very hard book to write a sequel to, particularly because it stops in a good place. But it was so good I had to get this sequel even if I was a little fearful it would ruin things somehow. But I liked it a lot—it brings extra conflict past the epilogue, it develops plot, it brings insight into the context, and it was mostly very, very satisfactory.
Though I have a quibble, there are, it turns out, two sources of tension and action, and I think one of them is definitely too much—it is very clear to me which one felt extraneous and also scientifically unlikely:
But in all, I am really glad I read it, and it's wonderfully put together—the tension, the PoVs, the character development. It is noticeably YA in a few things, some good (the PoV of real teens and one of the plots being quite relatable to issues affecting some teens today, , and in others less to my taste (that extra plot, which I think serves mostly for there to be extra action), but it's a really great example that being YA does not mean it is bad or worse written or less interesting to an adult (who has an open mind).
I am happy with it as a sequel also! It is not as special as the first one, but that was indeed Special. Read that one if you think you might like YA SF.
So just for the readers of the first book, that is a very hard book to write a sequel to, particularly because it stops in a good place. But it was so good I had to get this sequel even if I was a little fearful it would ruin things somehow. But I liked it a lot—it brings extra conflict past the epilogue, it develops plot, it brings insight into the context, and it was mostly very, very satisfactory.
Though I have a quibble, there are, it turns out, two sources of tension and action, and I think one of them is definitely too much—it is very clear to me which one felt extraneous and also scientifically unlikely:
But in all, I am really glad I read it, and it's wonderfully put together—the tension, the PoVs, the character development. It is noticeably YA in a few things, some good (the PoV of real teens and one of the plots being quite relatable to issues affecting some teens today, , and in others less to my taste (that extra plot, which I think serves mostly for there to be extra action), but it's a really great example that being YA does not mean it is bad or worse written or less interesting to an adult (who has an open mind).
I am happy with it as a sequel also! It is not as special as the first one, but that was indeed Special. Read that one if you think you might like YA SF.
October 28, 2024
The Darkness Outside Us is one of my favorite books, so I was both excited and nervous when the sequel was announced. TDOU is a book that, in my opinion, very much stood on its own, so I was worried a sequel might undermine the original book and my feelings toward it. It wouldn't be the first time an unnecessary sequel ruined one of my favorite books. With that being said, I can confidently say TBBU enhanced the original story and made me love TDOU even more.
As both a prequel and a sequel, we got more insight into how the original Ambrose and Kodiak felt when they learned the true nature of their mission, as well as how 30,000 years in the future the clones of Ambrose and Kodiak, as well as their children, are faring on Minerva.
In the past, Ambrose and Kodiak are understandably struggling. Ambrose with his mother's betrayal and with accepting, once again, his sister's death. Kodiak with the knowledge that the mission he trained for his entire life isn't what he thought it was. For both of them, with the knowledge of the suffering their clones will endure in the future all for the sake of saving humankind. Kodiak is able to find some peace with it, but Ambrose spirals out, ultimately making a choice that will affect everyone on Earth, as well as a version of himself and his family 30,000 years in the future.
In the present, their daughter Owl is eager to explore their new home to better prepare for possible disasters in the future while their son Yarrow yearns to learn more about where they came from, all of which Ambrose and Kodiak are hesitant to indulge in after everything they've lost. Unbeknownst to all of them, major threats are on the horizon, threatening to destroy them and everything they've built.
Though I wouldn't say TBBU kept me on the edge of my seat quite as much as TDOU did, the switching between past and present definitely kept me hooked and I ended up finishing the book in about 2 days. With that being said, the dual storytelling is ultimately what also made me knock off a star from my overall rating.
I think the "prequel" and the "sequel" portions of this book very easily could have been made into their own full length, separate books. There was so much going on in each portion that combining them and confining each story into roughly 200 pages just wasn't enough in my opinion. The bones of each story was amazing, and I think it deserved more exploration and fleshing out. The fast paced storytelling of each timeline made everything feel a bit too rushed for my liking.
In the past, Ambrose's feelings of betrayal led him to make a rash decision that would ultimately turn the people against both governments at a time where they were already on the brink of war. Considering his mental state at the time, it's understandable that he would go down such a path, but in the months long time skip between his POV and Kodiak's, I wish we could have seen more of how he felt about his choices once the initial anger faded, as well as how much actual impact the reveal to the public had on the war. I especially wish we had gotten more insight into how he felt once he realized his actions allowed Devon to sabotage the zygotes that were supposed to be the future of humanity. It would have been really interesting to see more of Ambrose and Kodiak's reaction to this reveal, and wrestle with the question of whether colonizing another planet after destroying their own was morally right. As for Kodiak, when we finally get to his POV, he's a relatively different person than who we met in TDOU after months of coming to terms with the true mission reveal. Again, I wish we could have seen more of how he got from point A to point B, and how that character development led to the decisions he made once meeting Ambrose.
In the present, I would have loved to have gotten more of Ambrose and Kodiak in general. We got bits and pieces through the eyes of their children, but I wanted so much more. I wish we had gotten to see more of how they had changed since we last saw them, how they felt about being parents, about how losing multiple children affected them, how they struggled to decide if it was better to tell their children humanity's past mistakes in hopes of a different, better future or to give them a clean slate. I wish we could have seen more of how Owl felt about being the clone of Minerva, as well as the knowledge that she would never have a partner the way her parents do. I wish we could have seen the virus take slower control of Yarrow's mind. I wish we could have seen more of how they all felt about the impending comet, as well as the knowledge they had been sabotaged from the beginning. Just like with the "prequel" portion, I just wanted more.
As I said, the bones of each story was perfect, and that's why I ultimately wanted more of each. Regardless, I still think this continuation gave even more depth to the original story, and I am overall glad it was written even if I wish a few things had been done differently.
As both a prequel and a sequel, we got more insight into how the original Ambrose and Kodiak felt when they learned the true nature of their mission, as well as how 30,000 years in the future the clones of Ambrose and Kodiak, as well as their children, are faring on Minerva.
In the past, Ambrose and Kodiak are understandably struggling. Ambrose with his mother's betrayal and with accepting, once again, his sister's death. Kodiak with the knowledge that the mission he trained for his entire life isn't what he thought it was. For both of them, with the knowledge of the suffering their clones will endure in the future all for the sake of saving humankind. Kodiak is able to find some peace with it, but Ambrose spirals out, ultimately making a choice that will affect everyone on Earth, as well as a version of himself and his family 30,000 years in the future.
In the present, their daughter Owl is eager to explore their new home to better prepare for possible disasters in the future while their son Yarrow yearns to learn more about where they came from, all of which Ambrose and Kodiak are hesitant to indulge in after everything they've lost. Unbeknownst to all of them, major threats are on the horizon, threatening to destroy them and everything they've built.
Though I wouldn't say TBBU kept me on the edge of my seat quite as much as TDOU did, the switching between past and present definitely kept me hooked and I ended up finishing the book in about 2 days. With that being said, the dual storytelling is ultimately what also made me knock off a star from my overall rating.
I think the "prequel" and the "sequel" portions of this book very easily could have been made into their own full length, separate books. There was so much going on in each portion that combining them and confining each story into roughly 200 pages just wasn't enough in my opinion. The bones of each story was amazing, and I think it deserved more exploration and fleshing out. The fast paced storytelling of each timeline made everything feel a bit too rushed for my liking.
In the past, Ambrose's feelings of betrayal led him to make a rash decision that would ultimately turn the people against both governments at a time where they were already on the brink of war. Considering his mental state at the time, it's understandable that he would go down such a path, but in the months long time skip between his POV and Kodiak's, I wish we could have seen more of how he felt about his choices once the initial anger faded, as well as how much actual impact the reveal to the public had on the war. I especially wish we had gotten more insight into how he felt once he realized his actions allowed Devon to sabotage the zygotes that were supposed to be the future of humanity. It would have been really interesting to see more of Ambrose and Kodiak's reaction to this reveal, and wrestle with the question of whether colonizing another planet after destroying their own was morally right. As for Kodiak, when we finally get to his POV, he's a relatively different person than who we met in TDOU after months of coming to terms with the true mission reveal. Again, I wish we could have seen more of how he got from point A to point B, and how that character development led to the decisions he made once meeting Ambrose.
In the present, I would have loved to have gotten more of Ambrose and Kodiak in general. We got bits and pieces through the eyes of their children, but I wanted so much more. I wish we had gotten to see more of how they had changed since we last saw them, how they felt about being parents, about how losing multiple children affected them, how they struggled to decide if it was better to tell their children humanity's past mistakes in hopes of a different, better future or to give them a clean slate. I wish we could have seen more of how Owl felt about being the clone of Minerva, as well as the knowledge that she would never have a partner the way her parents do. I wish we could have seen the virus take slower control of Yarrow's mind. I wish we could have seen more of how they all felt about the impending comet, as well as the knowledge they had been sabotaged from the beginning. Just like with the "prequel" portion, I just wanted more.
As I said, the bones of each story was perfect, and that's why I ultimately wanted more of each. Regardless, I still think this continuation gave even more depth to the original story, and I am overall glad it was written even if I wish a few things had been done differently.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2024
This prequel/sequel failed in comparison to the first book. It was interesting getting to know, Ambrose, Kodiak, and their two kids, and seeing how they’ve progressed since landing. It started a little slow, but I thought some drama would happen. Then when it turned it into a prequel, I was very confused. The flashback parts of the book showing a younger Ambrose and Kodiak were totally unnecessary. It just made the book drag on. And then to make a “surprising” villain out of a random side character seemed ridiculous. I felt the author could’ve come up with better reasons for the difficulties and challenges Ambrose and Kodiak face building a New World.
The first book blew me away with its twist and turns and lovable characters. I think it would’ve been better left as a standalone.
*** I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ***
The first book blew me away with its twist and turns and lovable characters. I think it would’ve been better left as a standalone.
*** I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ***
February 16, 2025
This book brought, frankly, the exact same kind of anxiety and terror and hope and sadness and love for humanity that the real world has brought me lately. There were times when I wanted to set it down because it was so stressful but I kept thinking, “what am I going to do instead, read the news?” I knew I had to keep reading because if I just kept reading, things would get better - and they did. Not perfect, not “solved,” not “fixed,” but better.
…All of which to say, add this to the list of books I’ve shed tears on a plane about!
…All of which to say, add this to the list of books I’ve shed tears on a plane about!
September 26, 2024
i’m gonna need a moment, my god.
cover review:
i’m going to need another 1-3 months to process that cover reveal. pls respect my time
cover review:
i’m going to need another 1-3 months to process that cover reveal. pls respect my time
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