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Xerus Galaxy Saga #1
Suspended in the Stars
A girl in hiding. A boy on the run. The fate of the galaxy between them.
When Talie Zarna is forced to hide rogue soldier, Renner Cartha, her life isn’t the only thing threatened. Living as the famed Soaring Staress on the circus spaceship Midway masks her true identity, but Renner’s very presence threatens to draw unwanted attention.
As a former royal guard, Renner holds secrets of his own. Like evidence of a political assassination he is on a mission to deliver to the Xerus Galaxy’s governing council. Renner's flirtatious confidence is at odds with the seriousness of his mission, but when his former guard captain, Jas Uli-Tai, discovers him hiding among the circus performers, Talie risks everything she's come to cherish—going so far as to leave the safety of the Phenomena circus—to do what is right.
With Jas closing in at every turn, Talie and Renner come close to finding the High Council only to discover corruption at its core. Their only option for escape is a cocky smuggler who’s not quite what he seems and an underground resistance group called The Rising that’s fighting for change in the galaxy.
Faced with the weight of her true identity and the cost of embracing it, Talie must decide if she is willing to give up everything for the sake of saving the Galaxy, even if that means giving up the boy she loves.
---
Suspended in the Stars is the first book in the Xerus Galaxy Saga. It is a no spice romantic space opera perfect for fans of The Lunar Chronicles, The Starboard Trilogy, and The Illuminae Files.
When Talie Zarna is forced to hide rogue soldier, Renner Cartha, her life isn’t the only thing threatened. Living as the famed Soaring Staress on the circus spaceship Midway masks her true identity, but Renner’s very presence threatens to draw unwanted attention.
As a former royal guard, Renner holds secrets of his own. Like evidence of a political assassination he is on a mission to deliver to the Xerus Galaxy’s governing council. Renner's flirtatious confidence is at odds with the seriousness of his mission, but when his former guard captain, Jas Uli-Tai, discovers him hiding among the circus performers, Talie risks everything she's come to cherish—going so far as to leave the safety of the Phenomena circus—to do what is right.
With Jas closing in at every turn, Talie and Renner come close to finding the High Council only to discover corruption at its core. Their only option for escape is a cocky smuggler who’s not quite what he seems and an underground resistance group called The Rising that’s fighting for change in the galaxy.
Faced with the weight of her true identity and the cost of embracing it, Talie must decide if she is willing to give up everything for the sake of saving the Galaxy, even if that means giving up the boy she loves.
---
Suspended in the Stars is the first book in the Xerus Galaxy Saga. It is a no spice romantic space opera perfect for fans of The Lunar Chronicles, The Starboard Trilogy, and The Illuminae Files.
Audible Audio
Published March 7, 2024
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About the author
E.A. Hendryx
12 books191 followersE. A. Hendryx is an author, graphic designer, photographer, and podcaster living in Indiana with her husband, two dogs, and a cat named Pages. She writes fiction in multiple genres and spends more time on Instagram than she probably should. She grew up on a steady diet of Star Trek and Nancy Drew and believes that every idea is better in space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
September 13, 2023
Did I write this book? Yes I did. And I’m also giving it 5*
A little arrogant of me, perhaps, but I will say I poured my heart and soul into these characters and, personally, will reward myself with all the stars. 🤩
But I also realize that not every book is for every person and I’m learning to be okay with that.
If you like no spice romance, a space setting (ships and new worlds), a unique take on the circus, and some flirtatious banter mixed in with your action/adventure this book might be for you 😉
It is soft scifi and has fantasy elements to it and I’ve been told by many that it’s a scifi they actually liked (from non-scifi readers 🤣).
It’s The Greatest Showman meets Star Wars and is the first in a planned trilogy. Coming out 11.7.2023
Note: No language and no spice - sizzle without the heat as I like to say.
A little arrogant of me, perhaps, but I will say I poured my heart and soul into these characters and, personally, will reward myself with all the stars. 🤩
But I also realize that not every book is for every person and I’m learning to be okay with that.
If you like no spice romance, a space setting (ships and new worlds), a unique take on the circus, and some flirtatious banter mixed in with your action/adventure this book might be for you 😉
It is soft scifi and has fantasy elements to it and I’ve been told by many that it’s a scifi they actually liked (from non-scifi readers 🤣).
It’s The Greatest Showman meets Star Wars and is the first in a planned trilogy. Coming out 11.7.2023
Note: No language and no spice - sizzle without the heat as I like to say.
October 31, 2023
Holy cow. I’m shook. Shookth. I read this book back in 2020 when the author was doing a Blog a Book challenge. It’s come a LONG way since then and man oh man, is it ever GOOD!
Renner and Talie’s story is Tangled meet Greatest Showman meets Star Wars. Sound odd? Maybe but does it ever work!
Set against the dazzling backdrop of space, interesting planets, and memorable characters, Suspended in the Stars checks all the boxes for a heart-racing, squeal-inducing, breath-stealing sci-fi fantasy!
Five out of five!
Renner and Talie’s story is Tangled meet Greatest Showman meets Star Wars. Sound odd? Maybe but does it ever work!
Set against the dazzling backdrop of space, interesting planets, and memorable characters, Suspended in the Stars checks all the boxes for a heart-racing, squeal-inducing, breath-stealing sci-fi fantasy!
Five out of five!
April 27, 2024
This book was completely out of my comfort zone with it being a legit sci-fi book. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect, but I’ve read a handful of space-y, planet-themed books despite having no interest in wars in space or treks through the stars. 🤷🏻♀️ Overall, though, I did enjoy this book and found it to be clean. I wasn’t a big fan of the romance, but I’m learning that I’m picky with my fantasy romance (romantasy) books.
I do think it started a little abruptly into the plot, but I also like that element because we quickly got into the main part of the story. Contradicting thoughts, I know.
I did find it a bit like a typical fantasy book where the main guy threatens the main girl into helping him, but while he’s pointing a gun at her, they’re thinking (or trying not to think) about how pretty/handsome the other is. I think I saw this promoted as a slow burn romance, and I would like to *greatly* argue that. That has to be my brain getting it wrong because they were very attracted to and thinking of each other right off the bat. Even if I wasn’t expecting a slow-burn romance, they did fall quickly even by normal standards. But, I suppose that’s due to the whole forbid love trope that enters in to the book a bit before halfway through, so we have to have the angst of that.
I feel like some things could’ve been explained better such as the animals and just different details of this science-fiction world. I wasn’t really sure what I was supposed to be envisioning some of the time, so I just went along with the ride and would sometimes, eventually be told whatever they were talking about was. (Edit to add: I went through the extra content at the end and there is a glossary that explained what everything was. Would have preferred it throughout the book, but good to know now, I suppose.)
I liked Talie but founds Renner to be…a little too try too hard? His humor and flirting, that is. Like I said earlier, I didn’t really care for the romance parts and throughout they noticed each other’s body and lips too much, but at least it was kept safe for teens?
I can’t put my finger on why I didn’t really enjoy this book, but I did like aspects of it. I can see why it’s compared to “The Lunar Chronicles” and I honestly would put that writing as very similar to this style…it’s almost a bit too basic for my tastes (that sounds mean and I don’t mean it to be, but it didn’t impress me—also like “The Lunar Chronicles”). It wasn’t my favorite, but I was interested in seeing what would happen and intrigued by the plot. I’ll be picking up the next book when it releases because that ending was mean.
I would say ages 14/15+, but if a 12/13 year-old read "The Lunar Chronicles" and the content in that series (the main four books, at least) were okay, then this book would definitely be okay.
Main Content-
We see characters with “gifts” that are different ranging from being able to walk through walls, create silk from their hands, defy gravity, ability to see the future, convincing others to do what you tell them (vocal persuasion), etc. *Spoiler* ; **Major Spoilers** **; The Teller (person who can see the future) is known to be correct and Talie believes her, but she’s not a major role in the book; The one who can convince others to do his bidding (vocal persuasion) uses it to protect Talie & is said that he could speak something into being, like an illusion; A mention of a magician at a circus.
Mentions of faeins, wings, & wishes; Mentions of evil people & evil looks in their eyes; Mentions of tattoos that have glowing features; Mentions of devilish smirks & flirting; A couple mentions of a god of the sea; A mention of an evil one who only wants to destroy; Something is said to “hurt like Hades”; Someone is wished “may the luck of the Verse travel with you”.
No Christian faith Contant, but in a short Novella best read after this book is there is a mention of the gifts that some characters have are from “the makers” (but it may be not a God-like figure and instead of kind of science fiction thing?); The phrase “bless the journey” is said after saying a deceased person’s name; A man is said to have passed to the “Great Sea” (death); Renner (partially joking) hopes his armor will rest in peace; Talie lifts a silent prayer to the stars (once) and also curse the stars (once); “Thanking the stars” and “Thank the Verse” are said often and sometimes sincerely; “Stars help us” is also said a couple of times; A mention of calling on the stars; A few mentions of having faith in something good happening.
No major or mild cussing, but there are fictional curses for the word where Verse and Stars are used frequently (verse is typically a replacement for world/earth)
‘What in the Verse’, ‘For all that’s good in the Verse’, ‘For the love of the Verse’, out of this Verse/in the galaxy’, ‘’Versing’ (replacement for freaking or stronger), ‘’How in the Verse’, Great Verse’ (exclamation), Thank the Verse’,’ Thank the stars’, ‘For star’s sake’, ‘Stars’ (just as an exclamation) and other such versions; Other fictional curses such as ‘what in the galaxy’, ‘what in the black’, ‘curse it all/him to the black’, ‘saying to the black with it all’, ‘whatever the black’, & ‘sweet muffins’ (exclamation); Something is said to “hurt like Hades”; Also ‘gah!’, ‘heck’, ‘blasted’, ‘bloody’, ‘shut it’, ‘dumb’, ‘idiot’, and ‘stupid’ are used; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; A few mentions of our main characters cursing (not written out); A mention of swearing by The Moons of Elysi.
Talie & Renner meet when he’s threatening to kill her to help him (they fight and tussle, him aims a blast pistol at her to comply, we see this in both POVs); Both Talie & Renner lie to the other and keep secrets for the first part of the book (Talie later recalls her mother telling her that someone in the political field, you must say what you need to in order to gain the desired outcome, but Talie never liked but sees her point that there will sometimes be lies of omission to be preferable); Talie overlooks the kidnapping/threats at the beginning after seeing Renner trying to do the right thing again and again; Renner wants to harm others to harmed or mean to harm Talie (he lets loose on one, pummeling him until his knuckles bleed); Talie is scared of the violence that Renner is capable of, but knows it’s to protect her; Talie wants to tell Renner where he care shove his opinion on something but is interrupted.
Fighting, Being hit/attacked, Being tied-up and threatened, Being held at gun-point and knife-point, Being drugged, Shooting/Stunning others, Being stunned, Being shot, Pain, Passing out, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to a few sentences); There are humanoids & bionic cyborgs (including humans with bionic abilities).
Mentions of assassinations, killings, & violence (up to a few sentences in length); Mentions of deaths & grief; Mentions of human trafficking & people being sold to fight in arenas (including slaves); Mentions of gangs; Mentions of the caste system in a planet & the injustices of it; Mentions of poisons & others being poisoned/drugged; Mentions of crimes, criminals, thieves, & stealing; Mentions of being held at gun-point, being shot, injuries, pain, passing out, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & a bar (our main characters do not partake in any, mentions being of side-characters and surroundings); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors; Mentions of an injured animal; A few mentions of blackmail; A few mentions of pots for waste; A mention of the possibility of a slit throat; A mention of a husband abusing his wife (which was a lie); A hinted mention of gambling; A mention of throwing up.
Almost kisses (up to a few sentences), a cheek kiss, two palm/hand kisses, a temple kiss, a few not-detailed kisses, a sentence-length kiss, four semi-detailed kisses (few sentences in details), and three detailed kisses (about a five to seven sentences); Remembering kisses (up to a few sentences); Staring at lips (few sentences); Quite a bit of Wanting to kiss, touch, & embrace (up to a few sentences); Lots of noticing & attraction (and fighting said attraction, including muscles and curves, up to a few sentences); Touches, Embraces, Nuzzling, Hand-Holding, Warmth, Tingles, Nearness, & Smelling (up to a few sentences in details); Blushes, Winks, & Flirting; Talie & Renner wear a lot of (this sci-fi’s world appropriate) skin-tight outfits which makes certain assets noticeable (like muscles and curves); Renner takes off his shirt in front of Talie (noticing his muscles and abs, a few sentences); Renner takes a sick Talie to his bed to rest and teases that he won’t tell anyone she’s been in his bed; A man comments on Talie’s soft skin and wanting to travel with her (Renner turns furious at this comment); The one-bed trope enters in with Talie being shocked by there only been one bed (Renner teases her about being in his bed before), but another bed is discovered and it’s implied they sleep separately; A man licks his lips when staring at Talie; A couple comments that could be sexual innuendoes if read deeply into them; Talie sees Renner in his under-shorts (and notices his abs and muscles, up to a few sentences); When on pain meds, Renner has the thought to kiss a man on the cheek for his help (doesn’t happen).
Mentions of some men looking at women (including Talie) like they are property or meat (one licks their lips when looking at Talie); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & wanting to kiss; Mentions of flirting, flirts, jealousy, winks, & blushes; Mentions of shirtless & partially dressed men (including Renner and a sea god); A couple mentions of a sports bra; A couple mentions of a see-through dress (that Talie would wear over a bodysuit, but Renner teases her about it); A mention of trying to strike a man’s “most vulnerable anatomy”; “baby” is said twice.
I do think it started a little abruptly into the plot, but I also like that element because we quickly got into the main part of the story. Contradicting thoughts, I know.
I did find it a bit like a typical fantasy book where the main guy threatens the main girl into helping him, but while he’s pointing a gun at her, they’re thinking (or trying not to think) about how pretty/handsome the other is. I think I saw this promoted as a slow burn romance, and I would like to *greatly* argue that. That has to be my brain getting it wrong because they were very attracted to and thinking of each other right off the bat. Even if I wasn’t expecting a slow-burn romance, they did fall quickly even by normal standards. But, I suppose that’s due to the whole forbid love trope that enters in to the book a bit before halfway through, so we have to have the angst of that.
I feel like some things could’ve been explained better such as the animals and just different details of this science-fiction world. I wasn’t really sure what I was supposed to be envisioning some of the time, so I just went along with the ride and would sometimes, eventually be told whatever they were talking about was. (Edit to add: I went through the extra content at the end and there is a glossary that explained what everything was. Would have preferred it throughout the book, but good to know now, I suppose.)
I liked Talie but founds Renner to be…a little too try too hard? His humor and flirting, that is. Like I said earlier, I didn’t really care for the romance parts and throughout they noticed each other’s body and lips too much, but at least it was kept safe for teens?
I can’t put my finger on why I didn’t really enjoy this book, but I did like aspects of it. I can see why it’s compared to “The Lunar Chronicles” and I honestly would put that writing as very similar to this style…it’s almost a bit too basic for my tastes (that sounds mean and I don’t mean it to be, but it didn’t impress me—also like “The Lunar Chronicles”). It wasn’t my favorite, but I was interested in seeing what would happen and intrigued by the plot. I’ll be picking up the next book when it releases because that ending was mean.
I would say ages 14/15+, but if a 12/13 year-old read "The Lunar Chronicles" and the content in that series (the main four books, at least) were okay, then this book would definitely be okay.
Main Content-
We see characters with “gifts” that are different ranging from being able to walk through walls, create silk from their hands, defy gravity, ability to see the future, convincing others to do what you tell them (vocal persuasion), etc. *Spoiler* ; **Major Spoilers** **; The Teller (person who can see the future) is known to be correct and Talie believes her, but she’s not a major role in the book; The one who can convince others to do his bidding (vocal persuasion) uses it to protect Talie & is said that he could speak something into being, like an illusion; A mention of a magician at a circus.
Mentions of faeins, wings, & wishes; Mentions of evil people & evil looks in their eyes; Mentions of tattoos that have glowing features; Mentions of devilish smirks & flirting; A couple mentions of a god of the sea; A mention of an evil one who only wants to destroy; Something is said to “hurt like Hades”; Someone is wished “may the luck of the Verse travel with you”.
No Christian faith Contant, but in a short Novella best read after this book is there is a mention of the gifts that some characters have are from “the makers” (but it may be not a God-like figure and instead of kind of science fiction thing?); The phrase “bless the journey” is said after saying a deceased person’s name; A man is said to have passed to the “Great Sea” (death); Renner (partially joking) hopes his armor will rest in peace; Talie lifts a silent prayer to the stars (once) and also curse the stars (once); “Thanking the stars” and “Thank the Verse” are said often and sometimes sincerely; “Stars help us” is also said a couple of times; A mention of calling on the stars; A few mentions of having faith in something good happening.
No major or mild cussing, but there are fictional curses for the word where Verse and Stars are used frequently (verse is typically a replacement for world/earth)
‘What in the Verse’, ‘For all that’s good in the Verse’, ‘For the love of the Verse’, out of this Verse/in the galaxy’, ‘’Versing’ (replacement for freaking or stronger), ‘’How in the Verse’, Great Verse’ (exclamation), Thank the Verse’,’ Thank the stars’, ‘For star’s sake’, ‘Stars’ (just as an exclamation) and other such versions; Other fictional curses such as ‘what in the galaxy’, ‘what in the black’, ‘curse it all/him to the black’, ‘saying to the black with it all’, ‘whatever the black’, & ‘sweet muffins’ (exclamation); Something is said to “hurt like Hades”; Also ‘gah!’, ‘heck’, ‘blasted’, ‘bloody’, ‘shut it’, ‘dumb’, ‘idiot’, and ‘stupid’ are used; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; A few mentions of our main characters cursing (not written out); A mention of swearing by The Moons of Elysi.
Talie & Renner meet when he’s threatening to kill her to help him (they fight and tussle, him aims a blast pistol at her to comply, we see this in both POVs); Both Talie & Renner lie to the other and keep secrets for the first part of the book (Talie later recalls her mother telling her that someone in the political field, you must say what you need to in order to gain the desired outcome, but Talie never liked but sees her point that there will sometimes be lies of omission to be preferable); Talie overlooks the kidnapping/threats at the beginning after seeing Renner trying to do the right thing again and again; Renner wants to harm others to harmed or mean to harm Talie (he lets loose on one, pummeling him until his knuckles bleed); Talie is scared of the violence that Renner is capable of, but knows it’s to protect her; Talie wants to tell Renner where he care shove his opinion on something but is interrupted.
Fighting, Being hit/attacked, Being tied-up and threatened, Being held at gun-point and knife-point, Being drugged, Shooting/Stunning others, Being stunned, Being shot, Pain, Passing out, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to a few sentences); There are humanoids & bionic cyborgs (including humans with bionic abilities).
Mentions of assassinations, killings, & violence (up to a few sentences in length); Mentions of deaths & grief; Mentions of human trafficking & people being sold to fight in arenas (including slaves); Mentions of gangs; Mentions of the caste system in a planet & the injustices of it; Mentions of poisons & others being poisoned/drugged; Mentions of crimes, criminals, thieves, & stealing; Mentions of being held at gun-point, being shot, injuries, pain, passing out, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & a bar (our main characters do not partake in any, mentions being of side-characters and surroundings); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors; Mentions of an injured animal; A few mentions of blackmail; A few mentions of pots for waste; A mention of the possibility of a slit throat; A mention of a husband abusing his wife (which was a lie); A hinted mention of gambling; A mention of throwing up.
Almost kisses (up to a few sentences), a cheek kiss, two palm/hand kisses, a temple kiss, a few not-detailed kisses, a sentence-length kiss, four semi-detailed kisses (few sentences in details), and three detailed kisses (about a five to seven sentences); Remembering kisses (up to a few sentences); Staring at lips (few sentences); Quite a bit of Wanting to kiss, touch, & embrace (up to a few sentences); Lots of noticing & attraction (and fighting said attraction, including muscles and curves, up to a few sentences); Touches, Embraces, Nuzzling, Hand-Holding, Warmth, Tingles, Nearness, & Smelling (up to a few sentences in details); Blushes, Winks, & Flirting; Talie & Renner wear a lot of (this sci-fi’s world appropriate) skin-tight outfits which makes certain assets noticeable (like muscles and curves); Renner takes off his shirt in front of Talie (noticing his muscles and abs, a few sentences); Renner takes a sick Talie to his bed to rest and teases that he won’t tell anyone she’s been in his bed; A man comments on Talie’s soft skin and wanting to travel with her (Renner turns furious at this comment); The one-bed trope enters in with Talie being shocked by there only been one bed (Renner teases her about being in his bed before), but another bed is discovered and it’s implied they sleep separately; A man licks his lips when staring at Talie; A couple comments that could be sexual innuendoes if read deeply into them; Talie sees Renner in his under-shorts (and notices his abs and muscles, up to a few sentences); When on pain meds, Renner has the thought to kiss a man on the cheek for his help (doesn’t happen).
Mentions of some men looking at women (including Talie) like they are property or meat (one licks their lips when looking at Talie); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & wanting to kiss; Mentions of flirting, flirts, jealousy, winks, & blushes; Mentions of shirtless & partially dressed men (including Renner and a sea god); A couple mentions of a sports bra; A couple mentions of a see-through dress (that Talie would wear over a bodysuit, but Renner teases her about it); A mention of trying to strike a man’s “most vulnerable anatomy”; “baby” is said twice.
December 31, 2024
Enjoyable sci-fi romance. The chemistry is written well and the plot surprised me at multiple times with all the escapades our characters faced. It reminded me of the banter and energy of Star Wars in some unexpected ways.
October 16, 2024
This cover is gorgeous, and definitely was a factor in me actually buying the book.
I had high expectations for this book, which led me unfortunately to dnf it, but I picked it up again.
The story itself has lots of potential and the characters as well.
It fell flat for me, and I didn’t care for the experience of reading it, but I’m sure lots of others would.
I had high expectations for this book, which led me unfortunately to dnf it, but I picked it up again.
The story itself has lots of potential and the characters as well.
It fell flat for me, and I didn’t care for the experience of reading it, but I’m sure lots of others would.
October 4, 2024
Loved it! This book hit just the right spot when I needed a good sci-fi read. Also the audiobook was really great too! I really loved the character of Renner, and I can't wait to see more of him in the next book hopefully too. The mix of space opera and circus performing, I mean it can't get any better with the action and thrills.
November 28, 2023
Instant new favourite. The characters in this story are so fantastic. The banter is peak. The suspense kept me turning pages. The only reason I didn't read this in one sitting is because I was reading as I recorded the audiobook.
I laughed, I gasped, I maybe screamed a little bit, but I'll edit that all out before you can all listen to the audiobook, don't worry. It was such an incredible honour to narrate Talie's chapters, and I need the whole world to read this and be as obsessed with it as I am!!!!
I laughed, I gasped, I maybe screamed a little bit, but I'll edit that all out before you can all listen to the audiobook, don't worry. It was such an incredible honour to narrate Talie's chapters, and I need the whole world to read this and be as obsessed with it as I am!!!!
February 24, 2025
The worldbuilding in this book was EXCEPTIONAL. I wanna live in a space circus, thank you VERY much. every single scene set in the circus was delightful. the motley crew! the found family! the collection! it was brilliant.
i think if we'd stayed there and perhaps moved a little more slowly, i would've enjoyed this more. as it is: things moved so quickly, and i very rarely felt empathy with the characters' situation. i wanted them to make it, yes, but they were so low-key for the level of danger they were supposed to be in that i found myself constantly questioning whether the danger was real. I also...didn't ship the MCs *hides face* I love a slow burn! I love to see people becoming friends FIRST! and they didn't and argghhhh. flirting while telling yourself why you can't be with someone EEEEEVVVEEEERRRR is not friendship, btw. i wish it was but i just....cannot get into romance of that nature.
but yeah overall i loved the worldbuilding and i will probably read the sequels because i feel like a lot of my frustrations were with early book setup things that felt implausible. but. moving forward should fix a lot of that. lezgo.
i think if we'd stayed there and perhaps moved a little more slowly, i would've enjoyed this more. as it is: things moved so quickly, and i very rarely felt empathy with the characters' situation. i wanted them to make it, yes, but they were so low-key for the level of danger they were supposed to be in that i found myself constantly questioning whether the danger was real. I also...didn't ship the MCs *hides face* I love a slow burn! I love to see people becoming friends FIRST! and they didn't and argghhhh. flirting while telling yourself why you can't be with someone EEEEEVVVEEEERRRR is not friendship, btw. i wish it was but i just....cannot get into romance of that nature.
but yeah overall i loved the worldbuilding and i will probably read the sequels because i feel like a lot of my frustrations were with early book setup things that felt implausible. but. moving forward should fix a lot of that. lezgo.
September 1, 2024
If you're looking for a fun YA sci-fi adventure, this is for you. It has a space circus, secret identities, hidden powers, a gorgeous cover, and really strong writing. Hendryx has definitely proved herself as a promising author with this book.
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May 1, 2025
╰┈➤ ✿ ɴᴏᴡ ᴘʟᴀʏɪɴɢ . . . :･*✧ ♩♪
。°⋆✫A Sky Full of Stars ⇾ Coldplay✫⋆°。
2:49─────●──4:28
◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹
❝ I’m falling through the air ❞
✨𝟹.𝟻✨
A very delightful read, fascinating, and full of color and life. I loved the world building and the characters, but some of the analogies used to describe the situations and worlds were hard to understand, because Hendryx used a lot of similes that referenced other worlds that us, the readers, have never been on or seen.
They have never been described to us yet Talie and Renner were using them as descriptions like you’d use the earthly sun, moon, or grass. I couldn't see the animals clearly, and kept having to flip back to the glossary to get a good picture. It broke the mood. It felt like looking for the translation.
I was also a bit confused by the plot at times. It feels like Renner never accomplished his goal, and nor did Talie. The ending did feel very satisfactory, though, but it wasn't the initial goal that got completed. I had to force myself to keep reading at times because it got slow in some places.
However, I did like the relationships in the story. I enjoyed the different points of view. Renner, in no way, felt like a girl in his thoughts. It was very easy to differentiate his voice from Talie's. Also, all I can think about is Chris Pine when I see Renner! Leef is my favorite character even though he came in later.
The world building was really good too, despite the vague descriptions of animals and planetary environments I had no experience with. The politics and government of the Xerus Galaxy felt believable. Talie's did not feel cliche or silly, either.
But the descriptions that did not help and sometimes slow plot didn't help. That's why I deduce two stars. I would still recommend this to space opera lovers or sci-fi fantasy fans.
sexual:
there are several kisses, but none of it is over-the-top or gross. No spice. There is a mildly descriptive neck kiss. Renner teases Talie about a see-through dress. A man threatens to use Talie to keep Talie as a bedmate. Talie sees Renner in his undershorts, and there is some teasing about there only being one bed but they never share one
substance abuse:
I only remember mentions of alcohol and being drunk, but it’s never done by the mcs. Some drugs to knock people out
violence:
people getting shot at, glass in hands, a gaping wound on Renner's side, explosions, punching, kicking, and beating people up, not very detailed
magic:
many characters have gifts that defy science, but no magic spells or witchcraft. More like superpowers
lgtbq+:
there is a scene where Renner is under the influence of a medical drug and he gets all silly and leans in to kiss Leaf’s (a male) cheek but doesn’t get to. It’s not exactly gay but I just wanted to point that out. I think it was meant to be silly but it was a little weird for me
verdict: rated PG/11+
。°⋆✫A Sky Full of Stars ⇾ Coldplay✫⋆°。
2:49─────●──4:28
◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹
❝ I’m falling through the air ❞
✨𝟹.𝟻✨
A very delightful read, fascinating, and full of color and life. I loved the world building and the characters, but some of the analogies used to describe the situations and worlds were hard to understand, because Hendryx used a lot of similes that referenced other worlds that us, the readers, have never been on or seen.
They have never been described to us yet Talie and Renner were using them as descriptions like you’d use the earthly sun, moon, or grass. I couldn't see the animals clearly, and kept having to flip back to the glossary to get a good picture. It broke the mood. It felt like looking for the translation.
I was also a bit confused by the plot at times. It feels like Renner never accomplished his goal, and nor did Talie. The ending did feel very satisfactory, though, but it wasn't the initial goal that got completed. I had to force myself to keep reading at times because it got slow in some places.
However, I did like the relationships in the story. I enjoyed the different points of view. Renner, in no way, felt like a girl in his thoughts. It was very easy to differentiate his voice from Talie's. Also, all I can think about is Chris Pine when I see Renner! Leef is my favorite character even though he came in later.
The world building was really good too, despite the vague descriptions of animals and planetary environments I had no experience with. The politics and government of the Xerus Galaxy felt believable. Talie's did not feel cliche or silly, either.
But the descriptions that did not help and sometimes slow plot didn't help. That's why I deduce two stars. I would still recommend this to space opera lovers or sci-fi fantasy fans.
sexual:
there are several kisses, but none of it is over-the-top or gross. No spice. There is a mildly descriptive neck kiss. Renner teases Talie about a see-through dress. A man threatens to use Talie to keep Talie as a bedmate. Talie sees Renner in his undershorts, and there is some teasing about there only being one bed but they never share one
substance abuse:
I only remember mentions of alcohol and being drunk, but it’s never done by the mcs. Some drugs to knock people out
violence:
people getting shot at, glass in hands, a gaping wound on Renner's side, explosions, punching, kicking, and beating people up, not very detailed
magic:
many characters have gifts that defy science, but no magic spells or witchcraft. More like superpowers
lgtbq+:
there is a scene where Renner is under the influence of a medical drug and he gets all silly and leans in to kiss Leaf’s (a male) cheek but doesn’t get to. It’s not exactly gay but I just wanted to point that out. I think it was meant to be silly but it was a little weird for me
verdict: rated PG/11+
March 8, 2025
I CANNOT believe that this book sat on my TBR for so long!! It was fabulous!!! I loved every second of it! My attention was grabbed from the very beginning and held it all the way to the end!
I haven’t read much science fantasy but I want more!!!! Renner was by far my favorite character, followed closely by Talie! Their chemistry was so good and well written (and his love for muffins was so adorable 🥰). Leef was also a close favorite, his cockiness and underlying sweetness made me so excited for the next book!
I absolutely fell in the with the Greatest Showman Vibes mixed with Star Wars! This series is a must read for fans of those movies!
I haven’t read much science fantasy but I want more!!!! Renner was by far my favorite character, followed closely by Talie! Their chemistry was so good and well written (and his love for muffins was so adorable 🥰). Leef was also a close favorite, his cockiness and underlying sweetness made me so excited for the next book!
I absolutely fell in the with the Greatest Showman Vibes mixed with Star Wars! This series is a must read for fans of those movies!
April 1, 2024
Beautifully written, with complex political hijinks and a fast-paced chase through a vibrant galaxy. And that epilogue! I can’t wait for book two!
March 22, 2024
As soon as I saw this book being compared to The Greatest Showman and Star Wars, I knew I had to read it. I’ll admit that this book sat on my shelf for several months first, though, because I was a bit nervous. How could a book claim to be as epic as BOTH Star Wars and The Greatest Showman.
Well, friends, this book is absolutely epic as both of those masterpieces.
The pacing of this story was phenomenal and the development of the world and characters blew me away. From the beginning, the Hendryx paints a vivid picture that brings every spaceship, port, and planet to life, showcasing the vastness and uniqueness of the galaxy. I felt like I was right there zipping through the galaxy with Renner and Talia, and I had SO much fun reading this book.
And don’t even get me started on Renner and Talia and Leef. The way the character’s secrets and backstories are revealed and the fact that Renner loves muffins and the color black…I was endeared so quickly to these characters, and again, the details Hendryx included about each character made them come alive until I felt like I was planet-hopping to safety with my friends, not reading a book. Which just happens to be my favorite kind of story—the kind that sucks you into the world until you feel like you’re right there.
I cannot wait for book two to release and am counting down the days until I can return to Renner and Talia’s world!
Well, friends, this book is absolutely epic as both of those masterpieces.
The pacing of this story was phenomenal and the development of the world and characters blew me away. From the beginning, the Hendryx paints a vivid picture that brings every spaceship, port, and planet to life, showcasing the vastness and uniqueness of the galaxy. I felt like I was right there zipping through the galaxy with Renner and Talia, and I had SO much fun reading this book.
And don’t even get me started on Renner and Talia and Leef. The way the character’s secrets and backstories are revealed and the fact that Renner loves muffins and the color black…I was endeared so quickly to these characters, and again, the details Hendryx included about each character made them come alive until I felt like I was planet-hopping to safety with my friends, not reading a book. Which just happens to be my favorite kind of story—the kind that sucks you into the world until you feel like you’re right there.
I cannot wait for book two to release and am counting down the days until I can return to Renner and Talia’s world!
August 29, 2024
3.5 stars rounded down
Action-packed and fun world-building. The synopsis pretty much covered the whole plot, so I wasn't as invested as I wanted to be. I enjoyed the space circus setting for the first portion of the book and my favorite character was hands-down Leef: the flirty pilot with a robot best friend.
I feel like the author is setting up very exciting things in the world she's created so I will most likely be picking up book 2!
Action-packed and fun world-building. The synopsis pretty much covered the whole plot, so I wasn't as invested as I wanted to be. I enjoyed the space circus setting for the first portion of the book and my favorite character was hands-down Leef: the flirty pilot with a robot best friend.
I feel like the author is setting up very exciting things in the world she's created so I will most likely be picking up book 2!
August 13, 2023
Absolutely stunning! A fantastic read—how the author creates such worlds is a mystery to me!—such an amazing story.
This story will take you on a ride you won’t want to get off…the characters are so personable, you fall in love with them. The humor is hilarious! I live the ‘snarkiness’ that the author brings out with some of the characters.
A great read that I will read again later!!
This story will take you on a ride you won’t want to get off…the characters are so personable, you fall in love with them. The humor is hilarious! I live the ‘snarkiness’ that the author brings out with some of the characters.
A great read that I will read again later!!
July 9, 2025
I also like muffins!
June 30, 2024
Plot- If you can get over the unrealistic start, the space opera plot is pretty good!
The circumstances at the beginning require some suspension of belief. The FMC is a famous starlet and she goes WAY out of her way for a complete stranger, even pretending to be engaged to him (her reasoning was not sound), throwing him into her public act without him having any training (??), and putting herself and her crew at risk of exposure, and for what? She’s known him for like a day, and doesn’t really trust him or the fake story he’s feeding her. Just didn’t make any sense.
But the action is a lot of fun as the book progresses!
Writing- Good. The universe building was unique.
Romance- Unfortunately, this felt instalove. Their relationship was entirely missing a foundation.
I mean, this was compared to Tangled (my all-time fave animated movie EVER) and in that movie they had a full day together where they were becoming friends and realizing their attraction and feelings for each other. So when they kissed, it felt RIGHT.
But this book didn’t have that. They were just suddenly (and very quickly) all in, and I didn’t know why- I felt no connection at all.
I wish the author had made it a slow burn, where the attraction, anticipation, and chemistry builds over time until it crescendos.
As it was, I would say their chemistry was rather low. That’s why I gave the book 3 stars.
Characters-
Dual POV.
I liked the FMC’s personality.
The MMC was fine. I can see how he was similar to Flynn Ryder from Tangled with his cheeky comments, but whereas I thought Flynn Ryder was cocky in an entirely endearing and funny way, this MMC’s attempts at banter were a little too much/too immature. Idk. (But the male narrator was not good and did no favors to the characters- see below.)
Cliffhanger- Their romance is complete. The story is not complete, but this book ends in a good place. They are together and are going to take on a corrupt system by joining forces with the rebellion. I believe the next book will feature new characters, the MMC of which is a very cool side character we were introduced to in this book. I don’t know if I will read it. I’m only interested in reading it if it features a high chemistry romance. I’ll wait for the reviews…
(And just to be clear, an author can achieve high chemistry without including any explicit scenes, so it’s totally possible in a clean book!)
Content-
Language- no swearing
Substance abuse- none
Spice- clean. some chaste kissing
Cover- I LOVE IT! The cover with the two main characters looking at each other has great chemistry and pulls me in.
Format- Audiobook on Everand
Narrators-
The male narrator was NOT A GOOD MATCH. Sounded like a 50-year old Liam Neeson (not a 22 year old soldier!) and his voice for the FMC was VERY affected and snooty. I DO NOT recommend the audiobook because of the male narration. Although I got used to it, I definitely know it detracted from my enjoyment of the novel.
The female narrator was pretty good.
The circumstances at the beginning require some suspension of belief. The FMC is a famous starlet and she goes WAY out of her way for a complete stranger, even pretending to be engaged to him (her reasoning was not sound), throwing him into her public act without him having any training (??), and putting herself and her crew at risk of exposure, and for what? She’s known him for like a day, and doesn’t really trust him or the fake story he’s feeding her. Just didn’t make any sense.
But the action is a lot of fun as the book progresses!
Writing- Good. The universe building was unique.
Romance- Unfortunately, this felt instalove. Their relationship was entirely missing a foundation.
I mean, this was compared to Tangled (my all-time fave animated movie EVER) and in that movie they had a full day together where they were becoming friends and realizing their attraction and feelings for each other. So when they kissed, it felt RIGHT.
But this book didn’t have that. They were just suddenly (and very quickly) all in, and I didn’t know why- I felt no connection at all.
I wish the author had made it a slow burn, where the attraction, anticipation, and chemistry builds over time until it crescendos.
As it was, I would say their chemistry was rather low. That’s why I gave the book 3 stars.
Characters-
Dual POV.
I liked the FMC’s personality.
The MMC was fine. I can see how he was similar to Flynn Ryder from Tangled with his cheeky comments, but whereas I thought Flynn Ryder was cocky in an entirely endearing and funny way, this MMC’s attempts at banter were a little too much/too immature. Idk. (But the male narrator was not good and did no favors to the characters- see below.)
Cliffhanger- Their romance is complete. The story is not complete, but this book ends in a good place. They are together and are going to take on a corrupt system by joining forces with the rebellion. I believe the next book will feature new characters, the MMC of which is a very cool side character we were introduced to in this book. I don’t know if I will read it. I’m only interested in reading it if it features a high chemistry romance. I’ll wait for the reviews…
(And just to be clear, an author can achieve high chemistry without including any explicit scenes, so it’s totally possible in a clean book!)
Content-
Language- no swearing
Substance abuse- none
Spice- clean. some chaste kissing
Cover- I LOVE IT! The cover with the two main characters looking at each other has great chemistry and pulls me in.
Format- Audiobook on Everand
Narrators-
The male narrator was NOT A GOOD MATCH. Sounded like a 50-year old Liam Neeson (not a 22 year old soldier!) and his voice for the FMC was VERY affected and snooty. I DO NOT recommend the audiobook because of the male narration. Although I got used to it, I definitely know it detracted from my enjoyment of the novel.
The female narrator was pretty good.
November 23, 2023
This is begging to be turned into a movie—how do we make this happen???
This upper YA science fiction romance has everything you need: well-developed characters, a circus in space, a fake engagement, a slow burn romance, political intrigue, high action twists, help where you least expect it, beautiful lessons on what love is and using power and talents to better the world, and muffins. Cannot wait for the next adventure of the Xerus Galaxy Saga!
This upper YA science fiction romance has everything you need: well-developed characters, a circus in space, a fake engagement, a slow burn romance, political intrigue, high action twists, help where you least expect it, beautiful lessons on what love is and using power and talents to better the world, and muffins. Cannot wait for the next adventure of the Xerus Galaxy Saga!
September 19, 2023
This book is marketed as a mashup of The Greatest Showman and Star Wars, and it delivers. The characters are amazing, the plot is fast-paced and twisty, and the setting is out of this world. (Pun very much intended.)
Tallie is immediately lovable, with her loyalty and gritty determination to place the needs of others before her own. Renner's muffin-obsession and flirty facade make him endearing, even while the mystery of his past and mission draws the reader in. Both characters are ones you automatically root for and eagerly journeying with through the obstacles they face.
Combine them with a stellar cast of supporting characters, keeping the witty banter flying, and it's a great Sci Fi adventure, appropriate and exciting for all ages of readers.
Tallie is immediately lovable, with her loyalty and gritty determination to place the needs of others before her own. Renner's muffin-obsession and flirty facade make him endearing, even while the mystery of his past and mission draws the reader in. Both characters are ones you automatically root for and eagerly journeying with through the obstacles they face.
Combine them with a stellar cast of supporting characters, keeping the witty banter flying, and it's a great Sci Fi adventure, appropriate and exciting for all ages of readers.
May 13, 2024
Oh my stars and planets, what an absolutely captivating story! There aren’t adequate words in the entire verse to describe just how much I loved this book!
To be honest I’m not much of a sci-fi fan, but I am however a super fan of the author behind this book (my goal is to read EVERYTHING she writes!) and I knew I could trust her to write a spellbinding YA sci-fi I’d love, and oh my goodness she made me love a genre that’s not usually my cup of tea! Brava!
I was enthralled with this story from the very first sentence, and I absolutely adored every second I spent soaring through the stars with Talie and Renner! They have the sweetest no-spice romance that totally warmed my heart!
Talie is such a sweet and strong heroine. She’s exactly the kind of character I wish were real because I’d love to be besties with her.
And Renner, oh my goodness what an amazing swoon-worthy soldier with a heart of gold. In fact I’m coining a new term: Instead of a cinnamon roll hero I’m going to call him a sweet muffin of a hero, iykyk! He seriously deserves all the heart-eye emojis!
The world building in this book is absolutely spectacular! This is one of the things I tend to struggle with in sci-fi and fantasy books, the world-building is often so overly descriptive and detailed that I get confused, can’t picture things, and get bored with the story. But this author does an amazing job of describing things with just enough detail that the book played out like a movie in my mind. Well done!
I absolutely loved the Circus Phenomena and all the planets featured in this book!
This book is breath-stealingly exciting! There is always something happening that will keep you flying through the pages so fast it just might create enough momentum to launch you into the Xerus Galaxy!
I seriously ADORED every single word of this book, and am now sitting here trying and failing to wait patiently for book 2!
Suspended in the Stars is an absolutely magnificent story that is destined to become a classic of the genre!
This book deserves every star in the sky, and I most highly recommend it! Stop whatever you’re doing and grab yourself a copy of this phenomenal book! You can thank me later!
I am beyond grateful that I took a step outside of my comfort zone! This book will live rent free in my head forever! Suspended in the Stars has a permanent spot on my keeper shelf, and it’s one of my favorite reads of 2024!
To be honest I’m not much of a sci-fi fan, but I am however a super fan of the author behind this book (my goal is to read EVERYTHING she writes!) and I knew I could trust her to write a spellbinding YA sci-fi I’d love, and oh my goodness she made me love a genre that’s not usually my cup of tea! Brava!
I was enthralled with this story from the very first sentence, and I absolutely adored every second I spent soaring through the stars with Talie and Renner! They have the sweetest no-spice romance that totally warmed my heart!
Talie is such a sweet and strong heroine. She’s exactly the kind of character I wish were real because I’d love to be besties with her.
And Renner, oh my goodness what an amazing swoon-worthy soldier with a heart of gold. In fact I’m coining a new term: Instead of a cinnamon roll hero I’m going to call him a sweet muffin of a hero, iykyk! He seriously deserves all the heart-eye emojis!
The world building in this book is absolutely spectacular! This is one of the things I tend to struggle with in sci-fi and fantasy books, the world-building is often so overly descriptive and detailed that I get confused, can’t picture things, and get bored with the story. But this author does an amazing job of describing things with just enough detail that the book played out like a movie in my mind. Well done!
I absolutely loved the Circus Phenomena and all the planets featured in this book!
This book is breath-stealingly exciting! There is always something happening that will keep you flying through the pages so fast it just might create enough momentum to launch you into the Xerus Galaxy!
I seriously ADORED every single word of this book, and am now sitting here trying and failing to wait patiently for book 2!
Suspended in the Stars is an absolutely magnificent story that is destined to become a classic of the genre!
This book deserves every star in the sky, and I most highly recommend it! Stop whatever you’re doing and grab yourself a copy of this phenomenal book! You can thank me later!
I am beyond grateful that I took a step outside of my comfort zone! This book will live rent free in my head forever! Suspended in the Stars has a permanent spot on my keeper shelf, and it’s one of my favorite reads of 2024!
May 19, 2024
What can I say, I think I’ve become a sci fi lover!!
I have been really looking forward to this book, pitched as The Greatest Showman meets Star Wars and a science fantasy, and it did not disappoint! A circus in space with a swoony love story, I really loved it right from chapter one.
As someone who loves Star Wars but doesn’t really read Sci Fi, I was glad there was a map included in the beginning. It definitely made keeping track of the systems and planets easier. The space lingo took a bit to get used to, but once the story got going it was easy to follow. I agree with what others have said that this is a good intro into Sci Fi for Fantasy lovers, because the fantasy aspect helps propel the story.
Talie and Renner are both great characters with a lot of growth throughout, and while Insta love isn’t my favorite, I would say this is more Insta attraction, and so it totally worked and fit the characters. I am very excited to see where their stories continue to go in book two and where they ultimately end up. (I won’t say more as to not spoil!)
The story flowed well, there were no loopholes; there are a lot of characters to keep track of, especially with new ones introduced in the second half of the story, but I’m hoping that all those characters will continue to play a role in the rest of the trilogy. I also wish there was more circus, but again, hoping for more circus and those characters in book 2. And with how the story ended, sweet muffins, I am itching to get that second book!
Suspended In The Stars releases November 7th, and I highly recommend preordering and getting your copy. This isn’t one to miss!
I have been really looking forward to this book, pitched as The Greatest Showman meets Star Wars and a science fantasy, and it did not disappoint! A circus in space with a swoony love story, I really loved it right from chapter one.
As someone who loves Star Wars but doesn’t really read Sci Fi, I was glad there was a map included in the beginning. It definitely made keeping track of the systems and planets easier. The space lingo took a bit to get used to, but once the story got going it was easy to follow. I agree with what others have said that this is a good intro into Sci Fi for Fantasy lovers, because the fantasy aspect helps propel the story.
Talie and Renner are both great characters with a lot of growth throughout, and while Insta love isn’t my favorite, I would say this is more Insta attraction, and so it totally worked and fit the characters. I am very excited to see where their stories continue to go in book two and where they ultimately end up. (I won’t say more as to not spoil!)
The story flowed well, there were no loopholes; there are a lot of characters to keep track of, especially with new ones introduced in the second half of the story, but I’m hoping that all those characters will continue to play a role in the rest of the trilogy. I also wish there was more circus, but again, hoping for more circus and those characters in book 2. And with how the story ended, sweet muffins, I am itching to get that second book!
Suspended In The Stars releases November 7th, and I highly recommend preordering and getting your copy. This isn’t one to miss!
February 2, 2025
Fantastic! This story was exciting from start to finish. Talie is strong and smart she is able to think fast and act on her feet. Renner is more then he lets on for sure a cinnamon roll I love him fierce protective and brave. We meet some great characters along the way. I loved the greatest showman vibes with the circus such a great concept. I really enjoyed the narrators for the audio book to Jane is phenomenal and Magnus his voice was perfect. Both draw you in and make the characters come to life. This story definitely left me ready to read book two to see where we go!
March 10, 2025
Kept me fully engaged, right down to the end!
December 4, 2025
An interesting space opera. Full review later.
December 14, 2024
I love this cover! I wasn't sure what to expect but really liked the circus aspect of the story, and the growth of the relationship between the two main characters. He wasn't who he seemed to be, but then neither was she!
This is a clean read.
This is a clean read.
June 24, 2025
A fun Sci-Fi fantasy read. Will definitely be reading the next book which picks up after this book and continues the overall story but focuses on different characters.
• Hidden identities
• A circus in space
• Found family
• On the run action
• Muffins 🙂
• Hidden identities
• A circus in space
• Found family
• On the run action
• Muffins 🙂
February 6, 2024
This was such a high-flying, fast-paced, thrilling scifi romance! I was connected with the characters quickly because their points of view were written so well. The pacing in the story was perfection, and the surprises and twists had me at the edge of my seat. You will be rooting for our two main characters and their romance, but also understand why they have hesitations. The ending has me so excited for book 2 in the series.
October 25, 2023
Give me book two right now!!
What a wild ride! I loved every second of it.
✨Suspended in the Stars grabbed ahold of my heart and still hasn’t let it go. I fell in love with this story so completely. The characters. Renner. The world building. Renner. The plot. Renner. The beautiful writing. Did I mention Renner?
Picture a setting like The Greatest Showman but ✨in space✨ Sounds pretty, cool, right? It 100% is.
This novel really has it all. Loveable characters, a circus, secrets, danger, comedy, romance, twists and turns, flirtatious banter, adventure, and a very well built world. I was kept on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Hendryx is an incredibly talented writer. She will pull you into her world, keep you there until the final page is turned, then leave you wishing you could live in the pages of her novel for a little longer.
If you like
🎪The Greatest Showman
👑Tangled
🌌Star Wars
🧁 Muffins (yes, I know that is a cupcake. Renner would be so disappointed that there isn’t a muffin emoji.)
do yourself a favor and preorder a copy of Suspended in the Stars. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it.
✨
✨
✨
*I received a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own*
What a wild ride! I loved every second of it.
✨Suspended in the Stars grabbed ahold of my heart and still hasn’t let it go. I fell in love with this story so completely. The characters. Renner. The world building. Renner. The plot. Renner. The beautiful writing. Did I mention Renner?
Picture a setting like The Greatest Showman but ✨in space✨ Sounds pretty, cool, right? It 100% is.
This novel really has it all. Loveable characters, a circus, secrets, danger, comedy, romance, twists and turns, flirtatious banter, adventure, and a very well built world. I was kept on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Hendryx is an incredibly talented writer. She will pull you into her world, keep you there until the final page is turned, then leave you wishing you could live in the pages of her novel for a little longer.
If you like
🎪The Greatest Showman
👑Tangled
🌌Star Wars
🧁 Muffins (yes, I know that is a cupcake. Renner would be so disappointed that there isn’t a muffin emoji.)
do yourself a favor and preorder a copy of Suspended in the Stars. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it.
✨
✨
✨
*I received a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own*
November 25, 2023
It’s been a while since I’ve give a book five stars. I was hoping for a fantastic haunt in space and was not disappointed. Loved the main characters and the pacing was spot on. I can’t wait for book two!
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of The Aurora Cycle series by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff. It definitely has the same vibes.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of The Aurora Cycle series by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff. It definitely has the same vibes.
September 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
GENRE
-YA science fiction
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: kisses
-⚠️: some violence, loss of parents (past)
This was fantastic! I think the only science fiction I’ve really read is The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer, and this had some similar vibes. It’s not a retelling or copying that in any way, but I think if you (like me) enjoyed that series, you’ll also enjoy this.
I don’t want to give away anything, so I’m going to be vague on purpose. Talie and Renner are our main characters. They meet in a circus that travels across the space, which is unique and super cool. Then they embark on a journey across the galaxy. There is a quite a cast of characters, and I’m super interested in one of them in particular. The author left us on a note of suspense, and I saw in the blurb for book two that this characters is one of the MCs in that. I’ll give you one guess as to what book I’ll be picking up next. 😜
This one has lots of secrets, including secret identities, adventure, suspense, and some funny robot companions. I can’t wait to jump into book two!
Favorite Quotes:
-"As long as we don't move, they won't notice us."
"Any man with eyes would notice
you."
His words pool in my abdomen like hot coals. "How can you joke at a time like this?"
"I wasn't joking."
-“Stars, life is dangerous Renner. If that's all we focus on, then we'll never truly live."
-All I want is for someone to see me.
All of me. And yet that is also what I fear the most, because when they do, I don't know if they'll accept what they find.
GENRE
-YA science fiction
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: kisses
-⚠️: some violence, loss of parents (past)
This was fantastic! I think the only science fiction I’ve really read is The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer, and this had some similar vibes. It’s not a retelling or copying that in any way, but I think if you (like me) enjoyed that series, you’ll also enjoy this.
I don’t want to give away anything, so I’m going to be vague on purpose. Talie and Renner are our main characters. They meet in a circus that travels across the space, which is unique and super cool. Then they embark on a journey across the galaxy. There is a quite a cast of characters, and I’m super interested in one of them in particular. The author left us on a note of suspense, and I saw in the blurb for book two that this characters is one of the MCs in that. I’ll give you one guess as to what book I’ll be picking up next. 😜
This one has lots of secrets, including secret identities, adventure, suspense, and some funny robot companions. I can’t wait to jump into book two!
Favorite Quotes:
-"As long as we don't move, they won't notice us."
"Any man with eyes would notice
you."
His words pool in my abdomen like hot coals. "How can you joke at a time like this?"
"I wasn't joking."
-“Stars, life is dangerous Renner. If that's all we focus on, then we'll never truly live."
-All I want is for someone to see me.
All of me. And yet that is also what I fear the most, because when they do, I don't know if they'll accept what they find.
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