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Spaceborn
The first ever interstellar spacecraft Sagan has been silently cruising through the blackness of space for 128 years towards mankind's first colonisation attempt in Epsilon Centauri. The Halfway event is fast approaching and the aging spinship will soon start decelerating the rest of the way to Aquanis, the ocean world that is promised to the 20,000 passengers that live inside its halls.
Julian and Rachel have lived all their lives bearing the cruel fate of the middle generation, born too late to have seen the Earth and too early to witness Aquanis. There is no way out of their floating prison but people have kept disappearing over the years. When Rachel finds out her brother is the last person to go missing, both teenagers will stop at nothing until they discover what happened to him.
What they uncover is a clandestine truth that has remained concealed since the Sagan left the Earth, a secret that will put everyone in danger and jeopardise the fate of the ship and the mission. The silent war that was happening in the shadows of the ship is reignited and there will be no coming back from it.
Julian and Rachel have lived all their lives bearing the cruel fate of the middle generation, born too late to have seen the Earth and too early to witness Aquanis. There is no way out of their floating prison but people have kept disappearing over the years. When Rachel finds out her brother is the last person to go missing, both teenagers will stop at nothing until they discover what happened to him.
What they uncover is a clandestine truth that has remained concealed since the Sagan left the Earth, a secret that will put everyone in danger and jeopardise the fate of the ship and the mission. The silent war that was happening in the shadows of the ship is reignited and there will be no coming back from it.
498 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2024
3 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Ilias Siametis
2 books4 followersIlias Siametis studied architecture but ended up becoming a construction planner. When the work day ends he is a father of twins and after bedtime he finally becomes a writer. A big science nerd, he's in love with the stars and the future. In the rare case he has some free time, he designs and 3D prints all sorts of things, reminiscing the time he used to play games instead. Born in Athens, Greece but lives in London, UK.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 22, 2024
This book hooked me from the start! Its ability to depict lifelike characters and vivid settings meant it immediately rated highly for me.
As someone fairly new to sci-fi novels, I found "Spaceborn" to be both fascinating and easy to follow. The scientific elements were presented in a way that was easy to grasp, and I appreciated how the main character, Julian, served as a relatable guide through the more complex concepts.
The narrative flowed smoothly, drawing me in completely. It's the kind of book that makes you forget that you're reading because the style and pace of the writing is such a pleasure to read.
The attention to detail in world-building was evident, with the incorporation of real science and logical progressions that added depth to the futuristic setting. From clear descriptions of the surroundings to subtle cues in characters' body language, every aspect felt meticulously crafted and had me yelling at an overthinking Julian, oblivious to his own feelings when they were glaringly obvious to everyone else.
The story's structure, divided into two parts, was effective in maintaining suspense and intrigue. Even in the seemingly quieter moments of part one, there was a sense of foreboding, hinting at the mysteries lurking beneath the surface and building towards the conspiracies which come to a head in Part two.
The use of two main points of view was well done, with each character having a distinct voice and perspective. Julian's narrative, in particular, stood out for its consistency and utter relatability of an MC struggling with an almost nihilistic outlook. His sense of claustrophobia and lack of control really comes through and often had me uncomfortable with how much I felt it too and loved seeing him eventually come into his own and grow in confidence.
While Rachel's single-mindedness occasionally grated on me (perhaps because I resonated more with Julian), her character development was one of the highlights of the novel. Her tone of voice, thoughtfulness and awareness of Julian (despite worrying about her brother) shows a maturity her act first think later character perhaps doesn’t. Her growth and motivations over the course of the book were also portrayed in a way that felt authentic. When she hits her pivotal turning point and decides to just go for what she wants, is one of my favourite scenes.
Overall, this book provides an enjoyable exploration of profound questions such as the purpose of existence, the value of sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness through the eyes of teenagers doomed to live and die aboard a floating ship. Not only do they tackle the very real danger of dealing with a group of ‘crazies’ they accidentally uncover, but they’re also figuring out what truly matters to them and everyone around them.
Be prepared though—there are moments when you might find yourself empathising, and even understanding, the 'Crazies' point of view.
As someone fairly new to sci-fi novels, I found "Spaceborn" to be both fascinating and easy to follow. The scientific elements were presented in a way that was easy to grasp, and I appreciated how the main character, Julian, served as a relatable guide through the more complex concepts.
The narrative flowed smoothly, drawing me in completely. It's the kind of book that makes you forget that you're reading because the style and pace of the writing is such a pleasure to read.
The attention to detail in world-building was evident, with the incorporation of real science and logical progressions that added depth to the futuristic setting. From clear descriptions of the surroundings to subtle cues in characters' body language, every aspect felt meticulously crafted and had me yelling at an overthinking Julian, oblivious to his own feelings when they were glaringly obvious to everyone else.
The story's structure, divided into two parts, was effective in maintaining suspense and intrigue. Even in the seemingly quieter moments of part one, there was a sense of foreboding, hinting at the mysteries lurking beneath the surface and building towards the conspiracies which come to a head in Part two.
The use of two main points of view was well done, with each character having a distinct voice and perspective. Julian's narrative, in particular, stood out for its consistency and utter relatability of an MC struggling with an almost nihilistic outlook. His sense of claustrophobia and lack of control really comes through and often had me uncomfortable with how much I felt it too and loved seeing him eventually come into his own and grow in confidence.
While Rachel's single-mindedness occasionally grated on me (perhaps because I resonated more with Julian), her character development was one of the highlights of the novel. Her tone of voice, thoughtfulness and awareness of Julian (despite worrying about her brother) shows a maturity her act first think later character perhaps doesn’t. Her growth and motivations over the course of the book were also portrayed in a way that felt authentic. When she hits her pivotal turning point and decides to just go for what she wants, is one of my favourite scenes.
Overall, this book provides an enjoyable exploration of profound questions such as the purpose of existence, the value of sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness through the eyes of teenagers doomed to live and die aboard a floating ship. Not only do they tackle the very real danger of dealing with a group of ‘crazies’ they accidentally uncover, but they’re also figuring out what truly matters to them and everyone around them.
Be prepared though—there are moments when you might find yourself empathising, and even understanding, the 'Crazies' point of view.
March 20, 2024
Before reading Spaceborn, I have to say I'd never thought of myself as much of a sci-fi fan. However, I found that this book struck a perfect balance between world-building, dynamic character development and an engaging plot that now I realise I might have been missing out on a fantastic genre!
I enjoyed the poignant and thought-provoking aspects, tempered with a clever hint of humour from nuanced characters. The author has created a vivid setting and an intriguing story that kept me gripped throughout.
I enjoyed the poignant and thought-provoking aspects, tempered with a clever hint of humour from nuanced characters. The author has created a vivid setting and an intriguing story that kept me gripped throughout.
March 21, 2024
One of the most realistic sci-fi books I've read. Not just the science and technologies but also the characters and the moral themes explored. We quite often get the stereotypical sci-fi tropes that don't often focus on what they would realistically look like but this does.
The most interesting thing about Spaceborn is that there isn't a good Vs bad situation. It's a grey area with complicated moral questions that have you questioning what you would do in their place and that is reflected in the characters and their choices. I loved how science plays an important role in the decision making of their society and how that trust in it is communicated throughout the book. But science can be wrong sometimes.
A sci-fi with a lot of action packed while also exploring human themes and diving into existential questions that get you thinking.
The most interesting thing about Spaceborn is that there isn't a good Vs bad situation. It's a grey area with complicated moral questions that have you questioning what you would do in their place and that is reflected in the characters and their choices. I loved how science plays an important role in the decision making of their society and how that trust in it is communicated throughout the book. But science can be wrong sometimes.
A sci-fi with a lot of action packed while also exploring human themes and diving into existential questions that get you thinking.
March 14, 2024
I read this as an ARC. I loved the world building and the gorgeous graphics. Whoever did the art work, congratulations. The novel is an interesting take on what an escape from earth scenario would look like. It's somewhat dystopic! You can never escape the basic flaws of a society that involves a collection of humans with very different aspirations and perspectives on how to live together. Some how the BS always catches up. I won't spoil how it all plays out, but there are some twists that make you think.
May 7, 2024
I received this as an ARC reader. Ilias's experience as an architect was evident in his excellent world-building, and his love of science fiction is clear in creating the spaceship and the challenges faced in traveling a great distance in space. This is hardcore sci-fi with an Asimov-type pacing. Most of the extensive effort was put into making the world on the spaceship as rich and believable as possible.
September 3, 2024
A very enjoyable read.
Once this story gets going, it's an absolute page turner.
I felt like the first part of the book, the pushing was a little off , but the author more than made up for it with the quick pace of the rest.
I did wish there was a little more transition between those big scenes, but it was still good.
Of you like a good fast-paced YA slave drama, you'll enjoy this book very much.
Once this story gets going, it's an absolute page turner.
I felt like the first part of the book, the pushing was a little off , but the author more than made up for it with the quick pace of the rest.
I did wish there was a little more transition between those big scenes, but it was still good.
Of you like a good fast-paced YA slave drama, you'll enjoy this book very much.
December 1, 2024
One of the best sci-fi and coming of age books that I have ever read. The thick plot as well as the capability of the author to develop his characters chapter by chapter is mesmerizing.
It keeps you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the mystery page by page.
A truly must read book for whoever loves science, romance, politics and ethics.
It keeps you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the mystery page by page.
A truly must read book for whoever loves science, romance, politics and ethics.
March 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. The thought that at some point this will likely happen is fascinating. I don't want to give any spoilers away, but the thought of never living anywhere but in space is thought provoking and the ending is great. Highly recommend.
March 31, 2024
I was immediately drawn in to the world of the book. I was attached to the characters before I even finished the first chapter. I got angry for them and scared with them. Definitely recommend this book
June 28, 2025
Loved this story! Great intro into sci-fi and loved how the author explained some of the more tech-y concepts. I found the characters believable and the world (or ship) building really intriguing. Definitely looking to read more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews