What do you think?
Rate this book
Eclipsed Evolution #2
Totality
Listening Length: 4 hours and 42 minutes
After a solar eclipse opens a way between our world and a paranormal realm, and the dark side of first contact emerges, one woman’s loyalties will be tested in this gripping serialized adventure from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Hollows series.
Dr. Renee Caisson never expected that her scientific expertise would lead to a role playing interpreter between humans and the demonic-looking Neighbors. When the door between their worlds opened, she was drafted by the government to study the otherworldly beings and was able to prove her theory: the Neighbors had been to Earth before—and now they simply wanted to save their dying planet.
At least, that’s the story, and everyone—both human and Neighbor—is sticking to it. The Neighbor in charge of the new portal’s operation, Noel, isn’t that sure anymore. Having succeeded in finding a new planet to inhabit, the leaders of her world have made the dark truth of their existence clear to her: the Neighbors forcibly tried to make a foothold on Earth in the past—and they can’t afford to fail again.
But the Neighbors’ ability to magically teleport from place to place has convinced Major Jackson that the only way to keep control of the situation is to embrace it and tell the world of the Neighbors’ existence.
Unfortunately, not everyone agrees.
After a solar eclipse opens a way between our world and a paranormal realm, and the dark side of first contact emerges, one woman’s loyalties will be tested in this gripping serialized adventure from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Hollows series.
Dr. Renee Caisson never expected that her scientific expertise would lead to a role playing interpreter between humans and the demonic-looking Neighbors. When the door between their worlds opened, she was drafted by the government to study the otherworldly beings and was able to prove her theory: the Neighbors had been to Earth before—and now they simply wanted to save their dying planet.
At least, that’s the story, and everyone—both human and Neighbor—is sticking to it. The Neighbor in charge of the new portal’s operation, Noel, isn’t that sure anymore. Having succeeded in finding a new planet to inhabit, the leaders of her world have made the dark truth of their existence clear to her: the Neighbors forcibly tried to make a foothold on Earth in the past—and they can’t afford to fail again.
But the Neighbors’ ability to magically teleport from place to place has convinced Major Jackson that the only way to keep control of the situation is to embrace it and tell the world of the Neighbors’ existence.
Unfortunately, not everyone agrees.
5 pages, Audiobook
First published May 7, 2024
316 people are currently reading
2693 people want to read
About the author
Kim Harrison
83 books18.8k followersKim Harrison is best known as the author of the New York Times #1 best selling Hollows series, but she has written more than urban fantasy and has published over two-dozen books spanning the gamut from young adult, thriller, several anthologies, and has scripted two original graphic novels. She has also published traditional fantasy under the name Dawn Cook. Kim is currently working on a new Hollows book between other, non related, urban fantasy projects.
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHarrisons...
Instagram
https://instagram.com/kim_harrison_au...
and her blog http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/
other pseudonyms: Dawn Cook
Kim reaches out to her audience at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KimHarrisons...
https://instagram.com/kim_harrison_au...
and her blog http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/
other pseudonyms: Dawn Cook
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
June 2, 2024
3.5 Stars
June 12, 2024
I really like this series but i would have appreciated it as one book.
January 10, 2025
Just ok....
May 9, 2024
I recommend listening to this series in the order of its release. Totality picks ups where First Contact left off. In this installment, we learn more about the Neighbors and their history with Earth. We also get to know key individuals better. While both sides claim the Neighbors are here to save their planet, we learn some doubt that.
The Eclipsed Evolution trilogy is the perfect summer listen, from interesting characters to the interactions and tensions created by the Neighbors’ arrival. Have you ever wondered what first contact would be like?
Dr. Renee Caisson continues her role of interpreter, and much discussion is made about how to reveal the Neighbors’ presence to humanity. August and Renee’s interaction intrigued me. The two are moving into the friends category, and I am curious how that will influence decisions. The characters are interesting from optimistic to calculating and I was curious to learn about the players, especially after the debacle that took place during First Contact. What Noel learned about the Neighbors’ leaders built up suspense as did errors made my humans.
Once again I slipped into this science fiction tale and am excited to dive into Emergence, the final audiobook. Fans of science fiction and first contact stories will want to listen to this audio first series. Xe Sands does a wonderful job bringing these characters and their emotions to life.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
The Eclipsed Evolution trilogy is the perfect summer listen, from interesting characters to the interactions and tensions created by the Neighbors’ arrival. Have you ever wondered what first contact would be like?
Dr. Renee Caisson continues her role of interpreter, and much discussion is made about how to reveal the Neighbors’ presence to humanity. August and Renee’s interaction intrigued me. The two are moving into the friends category, and I am curious how that will influence decisions. The characters are interesting from optimistic to calculating and I was curious to learn about the players, especially after the debacle that took place during First Contact. What Noel learned about the Neighbors’ leaders built up suspense as did errors made my humans.
Once again I slipped into this science fiction tale and am excited to dive into Emergence, the final audiobook. Fans of science fiction and first contact stories will want to listen to this audio first series. Xe Sands does a wonderful job bringing these characters and their emotions to life.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
May 3, 2024
The mystery deepens, sinister forces come about, and someone is (hopefully) /very/ close to getting what they deserve. Can't wait for the final installment.
Thank you for the advanced listening copy on Libro.fm!
Thank you for the advanced listening copy on Libro.fm!
December 17, 2025
Thank you Penguin Random House Audio for the gifted copy of this audio book. This is the second installment in this paranormal/sci-fi series.
This second portion of the book leans more heavily into the politics of the two worlds. This isn't something that I see alot of in Kim Harrison's writing but I am definitely enjoying it. The romance has taken a back seat in this portion of the book, but she does seem to be setting up for a possible love triangle in the future. Dare I say, even a possible monster romance?
I can see the parallels she is drawing to our current political climate and think she is doing a really good job with this aspect of the story. I can not wait to see how this ends!
3.5 ⭐️
This second portion of the book leans more heavily into the politics of the two worlds. This isn't something that I see alot of in Kim Harrison's writing but I am definitely enjoying it. The romance has taken a back seat in this portion of the book, but she does seem to be setting up for a possible love triangle in the future. Dare I say, even a possible monster romance?
I can see the parallels she is drawing to our current political climate and think she is doing a really good job with this aspect of the story. I can not wait to see how this ends!
3.5 ⭐️
January 25, 2025
3⭐️ This book and the one before it could have all been one book. Its not boring at all in my opinion just very sciency and spread out. The part about the government finding more value in riches than maintaining the wellness of their people. 👀 oop! Good shid.
I STILL don’t buy Jackson as Renee’s love interest. I lowkey want August to be her love interest because it makes more sense and they have more chemistry.
Also, there is a guy who is very obviously mastermind evil but nobody else seems to notice. He somehow manages to hypnotize or manipulate people into doing what he wants and whatever it is gives Renee headaches. But nobody notices his manipulation at all.
Also this next book is gonna be tense, I can feel it and I’m trying to decide if I’m ready to go there. We shall see.
I STILL don’t buy Jackson as Renee’s love interest. I lowkey want August to be her love interest because it makes more sense and they have more chemistry.
Also, there is a guy who is very obviously mastermind evil but nobody else seems to notice. He somehow manages to hypnotize or manipulate people into doing what he wants and whatever it is gives Renee headaches. But nobody notices his manipulation at all.
Also this next book is gonna be tense, I can feel it and I’m trying to decide if I’m ready to go there. We shall see.
July 21, 2024
I won this ebook through a Goodreads giveaway. Loved this second installment! The world-building continued to be developed, and the vivid characters were even more fleshed out and became more complex. The first two books in this series aren’t very long, and they read even more quickly. But Harrison fits so many twists and turns in the story. I’m so excited to read the next book! Highly recommend.
August 22, 2024
For some odd reason, I’m hooked on this! It’s a very interesting plot in this series. I’m listening to it on audiobook and the narrator does a nice job. It’s just good! I’m wondering what’s going to happen next and have already started the third book. I don’t see any more books after the third book at this time. I hope the third book wraps it up. I don’t think I can wait for the ending!
August 29, 2024
This is a fast read that should have been part of a single book, rather than the second of what I think is a trilogy. It is, like everything Kim Harrison writes, interesting, but it isn’t until almost the last few chapters that it really begins to hook the reader.
October 28, 2024
A mediocre follow up to a decent beginning.
August 19, 2025
How the tides have turned..... That was a twist I did not see coming.
June 9, 2024
4.5 stars
Middle book syndrome? I really liked this book- the audio is only 5.5 hours- I buzzed through it in a day. The story & the characters progressed but I wanted more out if it.
There's lots to resolve in the third book- looking forward to it.
Middle book syndrome? I really liked this book- the audio is only 5.5 hours- I buzzed through it in a day. The story & the characters progressed but I wanted more out if it.
There's lots to resolve in the third book- looking forward to it.
May 28, 2024
4.25 Stars
The second installment takes off immediately where the first left off. We are getting a better feel for Renee. She is a strong female that luckily does not have to kowtow to the military brass, even though it is a fine line that she is walking.
I liked that we got to better know August and that we are getting some behind the scenes information on the "true" goals of the Neighbors. Jackson is developing into a really likeable character, and it feels like Renee is bringing out the best in him.
Some of the little breadcrumbs that were sprinkled in during the first book are beginning to make a little bit of sense after this book - (the ring.....hmmmm). And we also are learning that not everyone has good intentions.
So far so good, I'm just bummed that the next installment is not going to be out until June.
Bummer....
The second installment takes off immediately where the first left off. We are getting a better feel for Renee. She is a strong female that luckily does not have to kowtow to the military brass, even though it is a fine line that she is walking.
I liked that we got to better know August and that we are getting some behind the scenes information on the "true" goals of the Neighbors. Jackson is developing into a really likeable character, and it feels like Renee is bringing out the best in him.
Some of the little breadcrumbs that were sprinkled in during the first book are beginning to make a little bit of sense after this book - (the ring.....hmmmm). And we also are learning that not everyone has good intentions.
So far so good, I'm just bummed that the next installment is not going to be out until June.
Bummer....
June 3, 2024
Thank you #prhaudiopartner @prhaudio for my free audiobook copies.
I liked it a lot! We continue to find out more about The Neighbors as Renee gets closer to August. They begin to form a friendship far beyond just being 2 different species. Renee continues to be an interpreter but also a protector as things ramp up and the neighbors begin to be in danger.
This quick series was so interesting and I was hooked. I really binged these moving from audiobook 1 to 3, back to back. I’m hoping that we get more of this series! Not only that. I hope that, if there is more, Xe Sands is the narrator because she was amazing!
I liked it a lot! We continue to find out more about The Neighbors as Renee gets closer to August. They begin to form a friendship far beyond just being 2 different species. Renee continues to be an interpreter but also a protector as things ramp up and the neighbors begin to be in danger.
This quick series was so interesting and I was hooked. I really binged these moving from audiobook 1 to 3, back to back. I’m hoping that we get more of this series! Not only that. I hope that, if there is more, Xe Sands is the narrator because she was amazing!
May 16, 2024
I am enjoying the books in this series, but it bugs me that they have been presented as 3 separate books versus 1 book. There just isn't enough in each individual installment to warrant them being stand alone.
February 24, 2026
Totality is a sleek, high‑tension sci‑fi novella that blends cosmic mystery with human vulnerability in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. Kim Harrison steps outside her urban‑fantasy roots and delivers a story that’s sharp, clever, and surprisingly emotional, proving she can command the genre with ease.
The protagonist’s voice is crisp and grounded, carrying the story through scientific intrigue, eerie atmospheric shifts, and the unsettling sense that something far larger than humanity is stirring. Harrison balances technical detail with character‑driven momentum, making the science feel accessible without losing its awe.
What makes Totality shine is its pacing. The novella moves fast—tight chapters, escalating tension, and a creeping dread that builds with every new revelation. Yet it still finds room for emotional resonance, especially in the protagonist’s moments of doubt, determination, and connection. The stakes feel personal even as the threat looms on a planetary scale.
A standout line: “Sometimes the universe answers in ways we’re not ready to hear.” It captures the novella’s blend of wonder, fear, and discovery.
Atmospheric, smart, and quietly haunting, Totality is a compact sci‑fi thriller that punches far above its page count. Five stars for its tension, its character depth, and the way it turns a celestial event into a catalyst for something far stranger—and far more human.
The protagonist’s voice is crisp and grounded, carrying the story through scientific intrigue, eerie atmospheric shifts, and the unsettling sense that something far larger than humanity is stirring. Harrison balances technical detail with character‑driven momentum, making the science feel accessible without losing its awe.
What makes Totality shine is its pacing. The novella moves fast—tight chapters, escalating tension, and a creeping dread that builds with every new revelation. Yet it still finds room for emotional resonance, especially in the protagonist’s moments of doubt, determination, and connection. The stakes feel personal even as the threat looms on a planetary scale.
A standout line: “Sometimes the universe answers in ways we’re not ready to hear.” It captures the novella’s blend of wonder, fear, and discovery.
Atmospheric, smart, and quietly haunting, Totality is a compact sci‑fi thriller that punches far above its page count. Five stars for its tension, its character depth, and the way it turns a celestial event into a catalyst for something far stranger—and far more human.
June 19, 2024
This is the second novella in the Eclipse series. I like the characters. I like the premise. This installment doesn't feel like a full book. It's more like the middle of a serialized story.
Neighbors and humans learn more about one another. The listener learns some secrets that few of the characters have knowledge of. There's a potential for an intergalactic incident. There are enemies to fear within the ranks. I'm eager to see what happens next.
(I was somewhat annoyed that they said two solar eclipses crossed over Carbondale, Indiana when it was actually Carbondale, Illinois.)
Neighbors and humans learn more about one another. The listener learns some secrets that few of the characters have knowledge of. There's a potential for an intergalactic incident. There are enemies to fear within the ranks. I'm eager to see what happens next.
(I was somewhat annoyed that they said two solar eclipses crossed over Carbondale, Indiana when it was actually Carbondale, Illinois.)
November 25, 2025
Series Info/Source: This is the second book in the Eclipsed Evolution series. I got this on audiobook from Audible.
Thoughts: This was okay but they whole story feels a bit predictable and kind of just...well..blah. The idea presented in the first book was intriguing and fresh, but here it just feels like things are slowly playing out without any push or pull from the characters.
Dr. Renee Caisson has succeeded in getting the Neighbors (otherworldly beings) reunited and allowed some small freedoms. However, now comes the hard part. The Neighbors have a portal open on Earth, and now Earth's fractured leadership has to deal with the Neighbor's fractured leadership. When the Neighbor in charge of the portals, Noel, finds out that the Neighbors have visited Earth before she is torn about the Neighbors' goals. Meanwhile, on Earth the lab Renee is involved with is in conflict with other parts of the US Government. All Renee wants is to learn more about the Neighbors and help them save their home world. August just wants to help his people find species to bring home to help his world thrive. Renee and Jackson want to let the world know about the Neighbors but there are heavy ramifications of doing that for both species.
I still enjoyed a lot about the adaptive biology that is discussed in this book. Renee is a well done character but a bit passive at times. August is also well done, but comes off as a bit too passive. He seems unwilling to go against his supervisor's (Noel's) wishes despite knowing that there is a better course of action. I understand Jackson is bound by his loyalty to the Army, but he also could have be more proactive in moving things in a good direction.
I think that was my main issue with this. The story moves slowly, and the characters feel very passive throughout. This is a momentous things that has happened, contact with an alien life form! However, everyone who could have a beneficial impact seems to be sitting back and letting things take their course. It's the more nefarious characters that are taking aggressive actions.
I also think that this doesn't work well as a multi-book series. There isn't enough completeness to each book for them to stand alone. It would have been better to have all three novellas in one book; the way this is released seems like a money grab to me.
I listened to this on audiobook and the narrator's voice is a bit deep and gravely. This makes it hard to listen to in instances where there is a lot of background noise; in the car, outside walking. It's better over headphones, but if you are trying to listen to it over a speaker you have to turn it up really loud to clearly understand the narration.
My Summary (3/5): Overall this was okay but not great. I like the concept of adaptive evolution and the paranormal twist to an alien race. I think the characters are decent; they are easy to relate to and pleasant to read about. However, they also seem strangely passive in a fantastic situation. I am not loving this short novella format; I think it makes the story seem slower since each book doesn't stand alone well. I will probably finish the series since I already have the third book. Despite the unique premise, the storyline is taking a very mundane and overdone route, which I am not enjoying. The last thing I read by Harrison before reading this was the 14th book in The Hallows series and I DNF'd that. I think I am just not a huge fan of the way Harrison's writing style has changed over the years.
Thoughts: This was okay but they whole story feels a bit predictable and kind of just...well..blah. The idea presented in the first book was intriguing and fresh, but here it just feels like things are slowly playing out without any push or pull from the characters.
Dr. Renee Caisson has succeeded in getting the Neighbors (otherworldly beings) reunited and allowed some small freedoms. However, now comes the hard part. The Neighbors have a portal open on Earth, and now Earth's fractured leadership has to deal with the Neighbor's fractured leadership. When the Neighbor in charge of the portals, Noel, finds out that the Neighbors have visited Earth before she is torn about the Neighbors' goals. Meanwhile, on Earth the lab Renee is involved with is in conflict with other parts of the US Government. All Renee wants is to learn more about the Neighbors and help them save their home world. August just wants to help his people find species to bring home to help his world thrive. Renee and Jackson want to let the world know about the Neighbors but there are heavy ramifications of doing that for both species.
I still enjoyed a lot about the adaptive biology that is discussed in this book. Renee is a well done character but a bit passive at times. August is also well done, but comes off as a bit too passive. He seems unwilling to go against his supervisor's (Noel's) wishes despite knowing that there is a better course of action. I understand Jackson is bound by his loyalty to the Army, but he also could have be more proactive in moving things in a good direction.
I think that was my main issue with this. The story moves slowly, and the characters feel very passive throughout. This is a momentous things that has happened, contact with an alien life form! However, everyone who could have a beneficial impact seems to be sitting back and letting things take their course. It's the more nefarious characters that are taking aggressive actions.
I also think that this doesn't work well as a multi-book series. There isn't enough completeness to each book for them to stand alone. It would have been better to have all three novellas in one book; the way this is released seems like a money grab to me.
I listened to this on audiobook and the narrator's voice is a bit deep and gravely. This makes it hard to listen to in instances where there is a lot of background noise; in the car, outside walking. It's better over headphones, but if you are trying to listen to it over a speaker you have to turn it up really loud to clearly understand the narration.
My Summary (3/5): Overall this was okay but not great. I like the concept of adaptive evolution and the paranormal twist to an alien race. I think the characters are decent; they are easy to relate to and pleasant to read about. However, they also seem strangely passive in a fantastic situation. I am not loving this short novella format; I think it makes the story seem slower since each book doesn't stand alone well. I will probably finish the series since I already have the third book. Despite the unique premise, the storyline is taking a very mundane and overdone route, which I am not enjoying. The last thing I read by Harrison before reading this was the 14th book in The Hallows series and I DNF'd that. I think I am just not a huge fan of the way Harrison's writing style has changed over the years.
September 27, 2024
Ebook owned
3 stars
Book 2 of the series.
Got a little bit more information. Some of my questions from book 1 were not completely answered but some did get some clarity.
The Vaughn character: I’m thinking he’s a “Nix” This is a species that the Neighbors have shared/talked about.
They could alter thoughts. And Renee noticed he wore an unusual ring with unique pattern. Which matched a leaf pattern that August shared with Renee. The headaches after being around Vaughn and his therapy session.( hmmm…I am wondering if he’s collecting the creation sparks that are missing? Oh!?!? Is Dr Trayler a Nix? Hhmmmm…) pissed off Nix getting revenge on the Neighbors? )
The Nix’s world (unbeknownst to the humans) was seized by the Neighbors. (The Neighbors are not as mild and peaceful as they’re letting on. But Noel and August were not aware of the full reason for the exploration of portals. At the beginning of this book, Noel is introduced to the REAL power of their world: Sidriel, a very old female jin/angel who informs Noel of the truth. Their world is dying and therefore they need a new world to invade.) It appears they want to “trade” to sustain their world but Sidriel lets Noel know that the plan is to take over Earth.
Understanding more about the creation spark.
The ‘love triangle’ is still sort of present?!? Not as much romantic like interaction between Renee and August. Except Renee is like always thinking about him. There’s like 2 ‘mini’ dates between Jackson and Renee with the phrase “kindred spirits” showing up. **(another similarity between the Renee character and Rachel from the author’s Hollow series: romance is a struggle for these characters.)**
So I have book 3. I already know from some reviews that I’ve read that how book 3 ends makes you think that there’s more coming. We all thought it was a trilogy but there may be more?!?
Hopefully book 3 brings out some more likable qualities in Renee? She reminds me of Rachel. A lot. And I LIKE Rachel. But something about Renee is just not as likable? She’s cool but the connection hasn’t happened for me yet. Maybe it’s because each book is shorter than the Hollow series. (Shrug)
3 stars
Book 2 of the series.
Got a little bit more information. Some of my questions from book 1 were not completely answered but some did get some clarity.
The Vaughn character: I’m thinking he’s a “Nix” This is a species that the Neighbors have shared/talked about.
They could alter thoughts. And Renee noticed he wore an unusual ring with unique pattern. Which matched a leaf pattern that August shared with Renee. The headaches after being around Vaughn and his therapy session.( hmmm…I am wondering if he’s collecting the creation sparks that are missing? Oh!?!? Is Dr Trayler a Nix? Hhmmmm…) pissed off Nix getting revenge on the Neighbors? )
The Nix’s world (unbeknownst to the humans) was seized by the Neighbors. (The Neighbors are not as mild and peaceful as they’re letting on. But Noel and August were not aware of the full reason for the exploration of portals. At the beginning of this book, Noel is introduced to the REAL power of their world: Sidriel, a very old female jin/angel who informs Noel of the truth. Their world is dying and therefore they need a new world to invade.) It appears they want to “trade” to sustain their world but Sidriel lets Noel know that the plan is to take over Earth.
Understanding more about the creation spark.
The ‘love triangle’ is still sort of present?!? Not as much romantic like interaction between Renee and August. Except Renee is like always thinking about him. There’s like 2 ‘mini’ dates between Jackson and Renee with the phrase “kindred spirits” showing up. **(another similarity between the Renee character and Rachel from the author’s Hollow series: romance is a struggle for these characters.)**
So I have book 3. I already know from some reviews that I’ve read that how book 3 ends makes you think that there’s more coming. We all thought it was a trilogy but there may be more?!?
Hopefully book 3 brings out some more likable qualities in Renee? She reminds me of Rachel. A lot. And I LIKE Rachel. But something about Renee is just not as likable? She’s cool but the connection hasn’t happened for me yet. Maybe it’s because each book is shorter than the Hollow series. (Shrug)
November 4, 2024
This is the sequel to First Contact, a scifi/fantasy story about a portal opening between our world and a paranormal one, and making contact with the intelligent species that lives there.
I don’t get the “paranormal” vibes, but I accept that’s likely in the eye of the beholder. The aliens look like angels and demons, they can teleport, they can change their DNA to adapt to new worlds - I can see how some readers will get those vibes. (I frown at using the word ‘evolve’ to describe this, because shape shifting is not the same thing as evolution, but I admit I’m being pedantic here.)
The Neighbors existence can’t be kept a secret anymore, so it’s time for the world to find out. There’s secrets and corruption on both sides of the portal, and it’s making things harder for Renee, August and Jackson, all who just want to make this partnership succeed. And is the world even ready for aliens that look like the angels of legend and demons of nightmare? Yeah, that’s totally going to go off without a hitch, right?
This is super fast paced, easily read in a day I think; it’s only 140 pages so great for a vacation or rainy-day read. We get a lot of movement in the plot heading into the third book, and a deepening of the character relationships. I’m not sure how long this series is supposed to be, but I don’t know if it can all be wrapped up in just one more.
I’m personally rating this a 3.5 because it was fun and there weren’t any glaring problems I noticed, but I do tend to prefer more complex scenarios and hard sci-fi. Still, I’m going to check out the next one to see what happens.
I think this is a great entry point into sci-fi for anyone who likes fantasy/romantasy and wants to dip their toes into a new genre without lots of scientific jargon or hectic space battles. If that sounds like you, take a look and see what you think!
I don’t get the “paranormal” vibes, but I accept that’s likely in the eye of the beholder. The aliens look like angels and demons, they can teleport, they can change their DNA to adapt to new worlds - I can see how some readers will get those vibes. (I frown at using the word ‘evolve’ to describe this, because shape shifting is not the same thing as evolution, but I admit I’m being pedantic here.)
The Neighbors existence can’t be kept a secret anymore, so it’s time for the world to find out. There’s secrets and corruption on both sides of the portal, and it’s making things harder for Renee, August and Jackson, all who just want to make this partnership succeed. And is the world even ready for aliens that look like the angels of legend and demons of nightmare? Yeah, that’s totally going to go off without a hitch, right?
This is super fast paced, easily read in a day I think; it’s only 140 pages so great for a vacation or rainy-day read. We get a lot of movement in the plot heading into the third book, and a deepening of the character relationships. I’m not sure how long this series is supposed to be, but I don’t know if it can all be wrapped up in just one more.
I’m personally rating this a 3.5 because it was fun and there weren’t any glaring problems I noticed, but I do tend to prefer more complex scenarios and hard sci-fi. Still, I’m going to check out the next one to see what happens.
I think this is a great entry point into sci-fi for anyone who likes fantasy/romantasy and wants to dip their toes into a new genre without lots of scientific jargon or hectic space battles. If that sounds like you, take a look and see what you think!
June 4, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I loved the continuation with the scientific aspects of learning about the Neighbors and August learning about the plants and animals on Earth. We are seeing things from Renee's point of view, which is naturally more focused on the scientific wonder of this opportunity.
We start to learn more about the political and business thoughts. I don't know if I trust any of these folks with their greed and controlling attitudes. But I get it. The military will rightfully be more cautious about protecting Earth and our people. It feels repressive to Renee (and so us also) but Renee is compassionate and a bit impulsive. I agree with her wishes to make them more comfortable and certainly not to use them for science experiments.
The Neighbors are trading out personnel now. Noel who has headed the project for the Neighbors now has "higher ups" controlling the narrative and forcing her to do things that make her uncomfortable. We start to get some of Noel's point of view now. She is sent to Earth and ordered to bring August back.
Narration:
Xe Sands is a favorite narrator. I appreciate her distinct voices for the different characters, and even aliens. The most active characters are Renee, August, Major Jackson and Noel, but there are others. I listened comfortably at my normal 1.5x speed.
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I loved the continuation with the scientific aspects of learning about the Neighbors and August learning about the plants and animals on Earth. We are seeing things from Renee's point of view, which is naturally more focused on the scientific wonder of this opportunity.
We start to learn more about the political and business thoughts. I don't know if I trust any of these folks with their greed and controlling attitudes. But I get it. The military will rightfully be more cautious about protecting Earth and our people. It feels repressive to Renee (and so us also) but Renee is compassionate and a bit impulsive. I agree with her wishes to make them more comfortable and certainly not to use them for science experiments.
The Neighbors are trading out personnel now. Noel who has headed the project for the Neighbors now has "higher ups" controlling the narrative and forcing her to do things that make her uncomfortable. We start to get some of Noel's point of view now. She is sent to Earth and ordered to bring August back.
Narration:
Xe Sands is a favorite narrator. I appreciate her distinct voices for the different characters, and even aliens. The most active characters are Renee, August, Major Jackson and Noel, but there are others. I listened comfortably at my normal 1.5x speed.
July 22, 2024
I waited till i read the second book before i decided to write a review. Lets be clear-- I read all the other reviews and understandably can see why some reviews were lower. I feel that all 3 of the books should have been together and not separate. It flys by way too fast with this short novellas. I absolutely love the premise and the characters are easy to understand. These are a fun read. I think I really enjoyed them because of the main character-- she is me in many ways. I am a Doctor, I have mouthed off substantially to higher ups in the military and I have really tested the bounds when i believe in something. I love that she has a moral compass and goes against the grain. The only negative for me is that they are short-- and they could be waaaaayyyy longer. I want to explore more with these characters. I am presently on the third book-- so we will see if it ends okay.. or i am just left wanting way more. I plan on reading the other books by this author. If i am not feeling a deep and methodical read-- I gravitate to these easy reads; and Kim is good at delivering.
October 22, 2025
In "Totality," Volume 2 of the "Eclipsed Evolution" trilogy, the plot thickens and darkens. It turns out that the winged aliens had visited and unsuccessfully tried to take control over Earth three times in the past, and they can not afford to fail again because their own planet is too depleted to sustain them. Human memories of the previous visits have been relegated to stories of demons, angels, pixies, and other characters found in myths and fairy tales. That is a pity because humans should be very worried. Ruthless aliens are completing their plans to infiltrate and are willing to punish or kill anyone who stands in their way. Noelle, who had been orchestrating the opening of the current portal between the worlds, finds out that she is just an easily replaced pawn, not a pawn master.
This volume moves more slowly than the previous volume and raises the question that perhaps these three short books should have been combined into a single book.
This volume moves more slowly than the previous volume and raises the question that perhaps these three short books should have been combined into a single book.
June 4, 2024
I was so so on the first book, went back to listen to it before starting this one and things made more sense the second time around.
With this one, it seemed like a bit of a time jump. Both groups are together, but the one group really not doing so good and they were able to go home, which amazed those still there. It was great to see Renee still working with the Neighbors and excited about it. Even Jackson was good with them. Sadly there were others that weren't and one of the Neighbors in power, Noel, wasn't looking highly at what had gone on.
It didn't help with what was discovered at the end. Jackson did a good job of communicating the info and how upset he was to see things, but and it's a big but, things weren't left good. It will be interesting to see where things go from here.
With this one, it seemed like a bit of a time jump. Both groups are together, but the one group really not doing so good and they were able to go home, which amazed those still there. It was great to see Renee still working with the Neighbors and excited about it. Even Jackson was good with them. Sadly there were others that weren't and one of the Neighbors in power, Noel, wasn't looking highly at what had gone on.
It didn't help with what was discovered at the end. Jackson did a good job of communicating the info and how upset he was to see things, but and it's a big but, things weren't left good. It will be interesting to see where things go from here.
July 2, 2024
Totality picks up from the first novella, deepening all the relationships, learning more about the Neighbors' world, what they seek to accomplish on our planet, and generally pulling off a normal first-contact kind of story.
However -- it feels like it has been done many times before. The only twist is some people behaving badly and a strong ecological theme. And on top of that, I am getting the distinct impression that these three novellas ought to have been packaged as a single longer tale, that they may have been split for marketing reasons.
I can't say that it would have made it a better tale, either way, but that's my impression.
The story is mild. A slight three-way kind of thing, but really more focused on friendship building. For some readers, this should be a high selling point.
However -- it feels like it has been done many times before. The only twist is some people behaving badly and a strong ecological theme. And on top of that, I am getting the distinct impression that these three novellas ought to have been packaged as a single longer tale, that they may have been split for marketing reasons.
I can't say that it would have made it a better tale, either way, but that's my impression.
The story is mild. A slight three-way kind of thing, but really more focused on friendship building. For some readers, this should be a high selling point.
July 18, 2024
Rating is 4.5. So good! The relations between the Neighbors and humanity is becoming more complicated, especially since the Neighbor August can tell when a human lies, which is of course one of our more commonly used tools when dealing with others. The portal is open, and Neighbor officials have come to Earth while there is an ongoing effort to understand language and also test what life from Earth can be sustained on the Neighbors' environmentally compromised planet. Then there is a revelation of a more sinister plan that will change relations between the two worlds, and not for the better. A really engaging plot continues to get more complex and our characters are being challenged to both understand one another as well as preserve and protect respective societies. Ends on a cliff hanger and has me totally hooked!
April 6, 2024
More like a 3.5.
The continuation of an interesting human-alien contact story.
As I said for book 1 in the series, I'm not going to include a plot summary because I don't want to give anything away.
In this part of the story, new issues (or guessed at, hidden agenda) come to the surface. We begin to see whom our main characters should trust--even if they themselves are unsure. The interplay between underlings and bosses (in both worlds) becomes more important in this audiobook, and I'm curious to see how disagreements will be resolved.
Narrator Xe Sands is a stand-out. Again, I'm impressed with her ability to convey the characters' feelings as well as her sense of pacing.
Thanks again to PRH Audio for the review copy.
The continuation of an interesting human-alien contact story.
As I said for book 1 in the series, I'm not going to include a plot summary because I don't want to give anything away.
In this part of the story, new issues (or guessed at, hidden agenda) come to the surface. We begin to see whom our main characters should trust--even if they themselves are unsure. The interplay between underlings and bosses (in both worlds) becomes more important in this audiobook, and I'm curious to see how disagreements will be resolved.
Narrator Xe Sands is a stand-out. Again, I'm impressed with her ability to convey the characters' feelings as well as her sense of pacing.
Thanks again to PRH Audio for the review copy.
July 23, 2024
This is book 2 of 3 short little books which, when read in sequence, become one single story. For me, they seemed to come out of nowhere so I asked the author to tell me some more about her process. She answered my question here (https://www.goodreads.com/author/1705...). The story progresses. The aliens (Neighbors) and their world are fleshed out. Character development (the authors greatest strength in my opinion) is, well, developing. I didn't know these books existed until recently so I am reading them as one book (which is actually Book 1 of a 3 book series). I know it's confusing but that means I am about 2/3rds of the way through Book 1. Onto the conclusion. So far, so good. I'm looking forward to the conclusion!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews