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DIEROCK 88: Kosmonautai Book One
AS DARKNESS DESCENDS, ATLAS MUST RISE.
In the sprawling tapestry of the Aurorion Galaxy, Atlas Viridian dreams of escaping the junk-strewn life of the Salvage Belt. However, his aspirations crumble when his father is arrested under suspicion of being the elusive terrorist, "Typhon." Accused of aiding and abetting, Atlas is thrust into the relentless grip of Horizon Corporation, condemned to toil for resources beneath the surface of a distant moon.
Trapped in the Dome of Dierock 88, Atlas' destiny becomes entwined with the clandestine machinations of "Vanguard," a shadowy Black Operations group. Their motives remain elusive—Atlas is the key, but to what?
Learning to live with a ragtag group of very different people, he’ll navigate the treacherous depths and discover that Horizon's facade of happiness conceals a darker Deadly creatures, remnants of the ancient alien Kosmonautai, haunt the caverns below. Every descent brings not only deadly adversaries but inexplicable mental turmoil.
BENEATH THE SURFACE, SECRETS AWAIT.
In the crucible of survival, he’ll grapple with the tragic lives around him and the harsh truths of the galaxy he inhabits. Dierock 88 becomes a dangerous journey of self-discovery, challenging a young man to unearth the mystery of his own existence, and decide what matters most in an unfair, and cruel society. Will Atlas survive the descent and emerge from the darkness? Or will the battle within himself be his downfall?
TORN ALLEGIANCE. FRACTURED TRUST.
BE REBORN.
In the sprawling tapestry of the Aurorion Galaxy, Atlas Viridian dreams of escaping the junk-strewn life of the Salvage Belt. However, his aspirations crumble when his father is arrested under suspicion of being the elusive terrorist, "Typhon." Accused of aiding and abetting, Atlas is thrust into the relentless grip of Horizon Corporation, condemned to toil for resources beneath the surface of a distant moon.
Trapped in the Dome of Dierock 88, Atlas' destiny becomes entwined with the clandestine machinations of "Vanguard," a shadowy Black Operations group. Their motives remain elusive—Atlas is the key, but to what?
Learning to live with a ragtag group of very different people, he’ll navigate the treacherous depths and discover that Horizon's facade of happiness conceals a darker Deadly creatures, remnants of the ancient alien Kosmonautai, haunt the caverns below. Every descent brings not only deadly adversaries but inexplicable mental turmoil.
BENEATH THE SURFACE, SECRETS AWAIT.
In the crucible of survival, he’ll grapple with the tragic lives around him and the harsh truths of the galaxy he inhabits. Dierock 88 becomes a dangerous journey of self-discovery, challenging a young man to unearth the mystery of his own existence, and decide what matters most in an unfair, and cruel society. Will Atlas survive the descent and emerge from the darkness? Or will the battle within himself be his downfall?
TORN ALLEGIANCE. FRACTURED TRUST.
BE REBORN.
- GenresScience Fiction
502 pages, Hardcover
Published December 23, 2023
5 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 13, 2024
RTC...
June 10, 2024
The sins of the fathers are visited upon the children.
DIEROCK 88 is an interesting story about a son cursed with the consequences of his father's actions and the various perspectives about his supposed destiny for a swath of groups. To some, he is destined to be a savior; to others, a tool. I thought this angle was awesome, and it was constantly shifting as different groups of people found different ways to use Atlas Veridian for their own personal agendas. A standout character of the story is Atlas's father, Pyros. The relationship between father and son in this book was the best part for me, and it was constantly engaging and throwing curveballs.
The prison moon DIEROCK 88 is dark location for the story. When the open barrens of a debris field in space feel more comfortable than a moon colony, you know they have a problem with the management. DIEROCK is owned by Horizon, who becomes the villainous corporation of the story. Ernster does a great job exploring this space, and by the end of the book, you'll feel like you know it. There are mysterious upon mysteries on DIEROCK, and various agents keeping their true motives in shadows. I was never able to guess where this story was going.
Great debut by S. A. Ernster!
DIEROCK 88 is an interesting story about a son cursed with the consequences of his father's actions and the various perspectives about his supposed destiny for a swath of groups. To some, he is destined to be a savior; to others, a tool. I thought this angle was awesome, and it was constantly shifting as different groups of people found different ways to use Atlas Veridian for their own personal agendas. A standout character of the story is Atlas's father, Pyros. The relationship between father and son in this book was the best part for me, and it was constantly engaging and throwing curveballs.
The prison moon DIEROCK 88 is dark location for the story. When the open barrens of a debris field in space feel more comfortable than a moon colony, you know they have a problem with the management. DIEROCK is owned by Horizon, who becomes the villainous corporation of the story. Ernster does a great job exploring this space, and by the end of the book, you'll feel like you know it. There are mysterious upon mysteries on DIEROCK, and various agents keeping their true motives in shadows. I was never able to guess where this story was going.
Great debut by S. A. Ernster!
February 13, 2024
Dierock 88 is a self-published sci-fi/space opera that offers good moments, a cool setting, and an overall good group of well written characters. However the book does suffer by often leaving the reader wanting more, and feeling like it some times tries and fails to do what other contemporaries of the genre have done better.
The main character can often be childish, sometimes to the point of verging on stupidity, and the side characters do often feel 1 dimensional ( I’m looking at you Lucien).
The parts of the book I found myself wanting more of, the intrigue of the actual exploration beneath the surface, time spent out of the dome and underground, always felt rushed and more like the characters were going 30 feet underground rather than on a prolonged dangerous trip. As well, the main villain of the book meets a very unsatisfying if not well deserved end.
All in all, this is a really good first outing that the author should be proud of and that sets this series up with a strong enough foundation to build something good off of if they can move past some of the initial struggles.
For anyone wanting a fun, easy to read sci fi book this is an easy recommend.
The main character can often be childish, sometimes to the point of verging on stupidity, and the side characters do often feel 1 dimensional ( I’m looking at you Lucien).
The parts of the book I found myself wanting more of, the intrigue of the actual exploration beneath the surface, time spent out of the dome and underground, always felt rushed and more like the characters were going 30 feet underground rather than on a prolonged dangerous trip. As well, the main villain of the book meets a very unsatisfying if not well deserved end.
All in all, this is a really good first outing that the author should be proud of and that sets this series up with a strong enough foundation to build something good off of if they can move past some of the initial struggles.
For anyone wanting a fun, easy to read sci fi book this is an easy recommend.
March 31, 2024
DIEROCK 88 by S.A. Ernster - 1st book in the Kosmonautai series
Challenging, dark, emotional, hopeful,
inspiring, mysterious, reflective, sad, and tense.
Fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
I try to go into reading books without knowing anything, or much about the story.
There is such a rush...when reading a story and discovering the world, the characters, the plot..that makes OPENING a new book, such a pleasure.
I'll admit, this was a cover buy. The artist that made this cover is a genius...for like the author said...it PERFECTLY conveys the story being told. I didn't know that...at the time, but it was definitely the story that I wanted to read. To be in THAT scene...with THAT ship, with THAT character, with THAT sword...in that green environment. Ugh. So atmospheric.
While reading this story, I got a little Red Rising by Pierce Brown (which is cool, since I will be picking up Golden Son and Morning Star in April), but also J.S Dewes' The Last Watch (another Indie author and her story). Though, both the books above are different, they are stories that I love, and that propel me to keep reading, deep into the night, and even doing an all-nighter, just to see where the story goes.
I loved the LOST feeling, how Atlas knows nothing...as his entire world is upended. His trust in his father...being tested. The found family, with the people he's thrown into...while at Dierock 88. How his character grew, from a boy (where everything is fairly small and intimate...to now being thrust into an environment...where he has to grow up quickly and rise up, to become someone...others will follow).
Then, the antagonists that are pitted against him, and some inserted as friends, at first. Well played. As a reader, it is fun to see who I trust, while the character in the story doesn't, OR when they trust someone...that I know is going to betray them (then to find out HOW wrong I was, OR vice versa).
The worldbuilding in this book is amazing. It starts off small and intimate, but with each page turned, we begin to realise what type of world they live in. Then, that is ripped away, and our main character is thrown into prison...and lies are told about him and his faither (so he thinks). Then finding his footing...and dealing with all this newness...within the penal system. The unfairness of it all.
Then, starting to understand the galactic politics that his father is involved with...and the idea of being betrayed. The information about what actually happened with his mother (I haven't bought into this one, yet...if ever...smells fishy to me).
I'm really NOT sure he's seeing the above as clearly as HE thinks he is. We shall see in the next books (for I hope that this is a story that spans the entire galaxy or universe).
There is SO much I want to know. Where are they going? Who's actually embedded as a friend, but actually an enemy? Who are their real enemies? Will we see a few of the characters from Dierock 88 in the future (IYKYK)? Was it worth being nice and going the extra mile for one, worth saving?
I want MORE, now. But, unfortunately...we have to wait.
If any of this entices you to pick up the book/story, please do. We need to support Indie/Self-pub books.
Thanks for this story, and I cannot wait to see what happens, next.
Challenging, dark, emotional, hopeful,
inspiring, mysterious, reflective, sad, and tense.
Fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
I try to go into reading books without knowing anything, or much about the story.
There is such a rush...when reading a story and discovering the world, the characters, the plot..that makes OPENING a new book, such a pleasure.
I'll admit, this was a cover buy. The artist that made this cover is a genius...for like the author said...it PERFECTLY conveys the story being told. I didn't know that...at the time, but it was definitely the story that I wanted to read. To be in THAT scene...with THAT ship, with THAT character, with THAT sword...in that green environment. Ugh. So atmospheric.
While reading this story, I got a little Red Rising by Pierce Brown (which is cool, since I will be picking up Golden Son and Morning Star in April), but also J.S Dewes' The Last Watch (another Indie author and her story). Though, both the books above are different, they are stories that I love, and that propel me to keep reading, deep into the night, and even doing an all-nighter, just to see where the story goes.
I loved the LOST feeling, how Atlas knows nothing...as his entire world is upended. His trust in his father...being tested. The found family, with the people he's thrown into...while at Dierock 88. How his character grew, from a boy (where everything is fairly small and intimate...to now being thrust into an environment...where he has to grow up quickly and rise up, to become someone...others will follow).
Then, the antagonists that are pitted against him, and some inserted as friends, at first. Well played. As a reader, it is fun to see who I trust, while the character in the story doesn't, OR when they trust someone...that I know is going to betray them (then to find out HOW wrong I was, OR vice versa).
The worldbuilding in this book is amazing. It starts off small and intimate, but with each page turned, we begin to realise what type of world they live in. Then, that is ripped away, and our main character is thrown into prison...and lies are told about him and his faither (so he thinks). Then finding his footing...and dealing with all this newness...within the penal system. The unfairness of it all.
Then, starting to understand the galactic politics that his father is involved with...and the idea of being betrayed. The information about what actually happened with his mother (I haven't bought into this one, yet...if ever...smells fishy to me).
I'm really NOT sure he's seeing the above as clearly as HE thinks he is. We shall see in the next books (for I hope that this is a story that spans the entire galaxy or universe).
There is SO much I want to know. Where are they going? Who's actually embedded as a friend, but actually an enemy? Who are their real enemies? Will we see a few of the characters from Dierock 88 in the future (IYKYK)? Was it worth being nice and going the extra mile for one, worth saving?
I want MORE, now. But, unfortunately...we have to wait.
If any of this entices you to pick up the book/story, please do. We need to support Indie/Self-pub books.
Thanks for this story, and I cannot wait to see what happens, next.
February 14, 2024
DIEROCK 88 is a fantastic first-in-series space opera book that has a satisfying conclusion yet leaves room for a sequel. The protagonist, Atlas, must survive the eponymous prison installation, sent there for crimes that he did not commit. While there, he meets a fascinating cast of characters while plotting his escape off of the planet.
It's soft sci-fi, softer than I normally read, but it's internally consistent and the science and technology works well for the setting - the depth at which is only hinted at in this book. Atlas is an incredibly well-written character, a boy torn between his present situation and his past, and is one of the best parts of the book. Many of the other characters lack his depth, however, but given that it's the first book in a series I would expect them to be fleshed out more in future novels.
The plot does meander a bit as well, especially in the middle, but comes together nicely at the end for an incredibly satisfying conclusion that gives plenty of room for future stories. I would highly recommend DIEROCK 88 for anyone looking for a space opera adventure somewhere between Piers Anthony's Bio of a Space Tyrant, with a much more sympathetic main character, and a more positive Pierce Brown's Red Rising series.
It's soft sci-fi, softer than I normally read, but it's internally consistent and the science and technology works well for the setting - the depth at which is only hinted at in this book. Atlas is an incredibly well-written character, a boy torn between his present situation and his past, and is one of the best parts of the book. Many of the other characters lack his depth, however, but given that it's the first book in a series I would expect them to be fleshed out more in future novels.
The plot does meander a bit as well, especially in the middle, but comes together nicely at the end for an incredibly satisfying conclusion that gives plenty of room for future stories. I would highly recommend DIEROCK 88 for anyone looking for a space opera adventure somewhere between Piers Anthony's Bio of a Space Tyrant, with a much more sympathetic main character, and a more positive Pierce Brown's Red Rising series.
September 19, 2025
I would give it 2.5/5 stars if I could give it a rating in half stars.
About 100 pages left, there is weird formatting CONSTANTLY in the book.
There has been missing quotation marks around speech as well. Likely could have used another look over from the editor.
Covers has these weird glossy smudge marks all over it on the front and the spine.
Book is decent, I mean it is definitely a YA novel, but I bought it mainly because the cover looked really cool. I am a sucker for a cool old school SciFi cover.
Could have used more time in the "scary underground", never felt any of the characters were in danger throughout the novel in any scenario in it, so hard to buy into it. Overall story and pacing felt rushed and not enough tension or character building to draw me in.
I think the book could have cut some parts and expanded others or be split into two books perhaps,and build tension and flesh out the one dimensional characters.
About 100 pages left, there is weird formatting CONSTANTLY in the book.
There has been missing quotation marks around speech as well. Likely could have used another look over from the editor.
Covers has these weird glossy smudge marks all over it on the front and the spine.
Book is decent, I mean it is definitely a YA novel, but I bought it mainly because the cover looked really cool. I am a sucker for a cool old school SciFi cover.
Could have used more time in the "scary underground", never felt any of the characters were in danger throughout the novel in any scenario in it, so hard to buy into it. Overall story and pacing felt rushed and not enough tension or character building to draw me in.
I think the book could have cut some parts and expanded others or be split into two books perhaps,and build tension and flesh out the one dimensional characters.
June 10, 2024
This book is a fantastic sci-fi adventure! It has great pacing throughout and does a great job of flowing from low-intensity dialogue scenes to high-intensity action scenes. The world building is done in such a natural way and the plot flows seamlessly alongside so it never feels like pure exposition.
The piece that stands out to me the most in the book is the writer's grasp of the characters. Each character has their own strengths and struggles and none of them feel one-dimensional (which actually is a point that’s woven into the story). It’s rare to see an author have this level of understanding of each of their characters. They all interact and behave in ways that are true to their motivation and this makes the plot flow naturally.
I would highly recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to a sequel!
The piece that stands out to me the most in the book is the writer's grasp of the characters. Each character has their own strengths and struggles and none of them feel one-dimensional (which actually is a point that’s woven into the story). It’s rare to see an author have this level of understanding of each of their characters. They all interact and behave in ways that are true to their motivation and this makes the plot flow naturally.
I would highly recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to a sequel!
April 22, 2024
Can't believe this is her FIRST book
I "found" this book in recommendations on Twitter/X when chatting with other readers about "indie authors".
WOW! This book is so well-written that I am shocked it is her first and not several books experience!
The plot is a slow burn that reveals more and more with each chapter. There are twists galore!
I typically read "military fiction" or "fantasy"...but also enjoy SciFi (especially ones with mysteries!).
I am looking forward to the rest of the series!!!
I "found" this book in recommendations on Twitter/X when chatting with other readers about "indie authors".
WOW! This book is so well-written that I am shocked it is her first and not several books experience!
The plot is a slow burn that reveals more and more with each chapter. There are twists galore!
I typically read "military fiction" or "fantasy"...but also enjoy SciFi (especially ones with mysteries!).
I am looking forward to the rest of the series!!!
May 6, 2024
This is about Atlas a young man whose life is turned upside down when his father is accused of being a terrorist and they're both arrested. I liked Atlas's struggle within Dierock and the slow reveal of the mysteries of his parents and what's really going on while answering a few questions along the way. I do think there are quite a few characters and maybe too many and I thought Atlas could be a bit too emotional but overall I liked the book and would read more.
October 23, 2024
Great read and highly recommend for sci-fi fans
Really enjoyed Ernster’s debut! Dierock88 tackles huge underlying parallels to the large corporations of today and the possible far future our galaxy may hold. The story has a steady pace and really ramps up around the 75% mark, so make sure you hang in for the ride and the awesome alien tech!Overall, I highly recommend this novel and look forward to diving into the rest of the series as they come out.
Really enjoyed Ernster’s debut! Dierock88 tackles huge underlying parallels to the large corporations of today and the possible far future our galaxy may hold. The story has a steady pace and really ramps up around the 75% mark, so make sure you hang in for the ride and the awesome alien tech!Overall, I highly recommend this novel and look forward to diving into the rest of the series as they come out.
December 25, 2024
An action packed heroes journey in a new world of science fiction filled with alien technology, political intrigue and the underdogs working to subvert it. The hero Atlas struggles with where he comes from and where he is going as family, insurgents and a mystical connection to the ancients each pull at his fate. I cannot wait for the next book. S.A. Ernster rises as the next great sci-fi adventure novelist.
If you like Star Wars, Gladiator, or The Expanse this is a book for you.
If you like Star Wars, Gladiator, or The Expanse this is a book for you.
August 19, 2025
I'm obsessed with gritty space operas, and this one hits the spot! Meet Atlas, the toughest character I've ever read, with a name that's just as badass. S.A. Oliver puts Atlas through hell, making me feel both horrible for him and rooting for him at the same time. That's what makes this book unputdownable! With its intriguing mystery and tense space atmosphere, this is a must read for space opera fans. Support S.A. Oliver and get your hands on this awesome book!
July 9, 2024
Ok so this book has it all. Space monsters, light sabres (kind of), celestial nepotism, and lots of torture. It was such a great ride through this plight and it definitely sets up for a sequel. There was a small promise which was never paid off by the end but I guess I’ll have to wait until the next installment to find out what happens. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2024
Dierock 88 is a sci-fi debut that is engrossing and full of life.
4.5⭐s
Full review can be found on FanFiAddict.com
4.5⭐s
Full review can be found on FanFiAddict.com
February 11, 2024
Liked the space opera, enjoyed making memes of the book. Am awaiting the second instalment of this book.
May 23, 2024
Vibrant writing, space optimism and the cover is hot 🔥🔥
June 13, 2024
Good scifi
Scifi for those who love a bit of everything. Action, mysteries, aliens, drama and a hint of romance. S. A. knows how to deliver a great story. Can't wait for more.
Scifi for those who love a bit of everything. Action, mysteries, aliens, drama and a hint of romance. S. A. knows how to deliver a great story. Can't wait for more.
September 5, 2024
I'll admit it, this was a total case of judging a book by its cover, but it did not disappoint! Just wow, what a cover! And what a story. If the momentum keeps up, this could very well be the next great scifi series! Loved Atlas and the gang. I can't wait to get to know them a little more. Especially Obe! Also, the world is very cool! While this book was mainly set in one location, I get the feeling we will get more planets and settings in the books to come. This was a pleasant surprise, and I am looking forward to the next one.
March 19, 2025
Great writer. Could’ve been a five star book with some editing for length. Lot of dross in the middle.
July 16, 2025
Enjoyable story and great narration for the audiobook.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews