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Xeno
The huge spaceship the Xeno is en route to a new world light years from Earth, its payload of more than 50,000 cryogenically frozen colonists watched over by a supercomputer and a skeleton crew of only a dozen people.
When the ship comes into contact with a seemingly inert alien artefact drifting in space, the crew believes they've made a momentous discovery for all humankind. They’re unaware it’s the eve of true horror.
Soon it becomes clear the crew have unwittingly woken an evil so ancient and so powerful it threatens not only the ship and its slumbering passengers, but the future of the human race itself.
Recommended for mature readers due to graphic language, violence and sexual content.
When the ship comes into contact with a seemingly inert alien artefact drifting in space, the crew believes they've made a momentous discovery for all humankind. They’re unaware it’s the eve of true horror.
Soon it becomes clear the crew have unwittingly woken an evil so ancient and so powerful it threatens not only the ship and its slumbering passengers, but the future of the human race itself.
Recommended for mature readers due to graphic language, violence and sexual content.
Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 7, 2024
Fear and loathing on Xeno
This was a very cool story. It has the pacing of the first Alien movie, increasing discovery and fear the farther you go, and combines it with the mystery of The Abyss. More than once I was left yelling at the crew, unable to tear myself away from their inevitable demise. And if you live for that type of anxiety like I do, you need to get your hands on this.
This was a very cool story. It has the pacing of the first Alien movie, increasing discovery and fear the farther you go, and combines it with the mystery of The Abyss. More than once I was left yelling at the crew, unable to tear myself away from their inevitable demise. And if you live for that type of anxiety like I do, you need to get your hands on this.
February 14, 2024
I was in a mood for a first contact novel and this was one of the two books I bought. I didn't realize this was a self-published book and I had never read one before. To my surprise, this book was amazing. Brilliant blend of sci-fi and horror and great characters. I can think of several movies and tv shows this book might have borrowed some ideas from, but it combined it all so well.
If you are looking for a sci-fi horror or a first contact alien book, I definitely recommend this book.
If you are looking for a sci-fi horror or a first contact alien book, I definitely recommend this book.
April 9, 2020
I'm not a massive sci fi buff (I've read a few books, seen a few films, but nothing major) so going into this book I didn't know what to expect.
The premise sounded interesting - a skeleton crew of a dozen people stuck on a massive spaceship with an evil alien entity.
Starting off it was kind of hard keeping track of each character. All the crew were introduced in one go, using second names (which I think is harder to remember than first names) so it did take a little while to remember who was who whenever interactions happened between anyone.
On the flip side of that, the spaceship itself and all the technology was explained thoroughly enough that you could picture what was going on and what everything looked like (the ship itself for example has a very unique design)
Onto the storyline. This was more of a slow burn, creepy horror rather than a fast paced, in-your-face alien creature feature. It takes about half the book for things to really get going in the evil entity department, but I didn't feel like I was waiting around tapping my watch going 'is this gonna get going yet?'. I actually enjoyed all the lead up - in fact during the first quarter of the book I was kind of sad that I knew everything was going to go pear shaped because I was enjoying getting to know all the characters and just reading about their day to day ship life.
Talking about the characters, we mainly follow Gio, a computer technician for Xeno who has a dark past (content warning for mentions of past abuse) His best friend on the ship is Hugo, a botanist from Australia who is all about positive vibes. Because of such a large crew - in terms of 260-odd page book - a lot of the 12 members didn't have many personality traits, but I'd say at least half gave a lasting impression and had their own plot points (tension between two because of one's sexuality, a big religious plot, the job roles people had etc)
There was a bit of an open ended ending, which is always fun with these types of books. Should you feel happy? Should you feel sad? Should you feel a sense of foreboding? Who knows! I like it when books aren't wrapped up into a nice little neat bow, and keeps you thinking and guessing even after the last page.
Some more content warnings I'll put under spoiler tags. If you want to know then look here >
I was sent this book by the author, all opinions are my own.
The premise sounded interesting - a skeleton crew of a dozen people stuck on a massive spaceship with an evil alien entity.
Starting off it was kind of hard keeping track of each character. All the crew were introduced in one go, using second names (which I think is harder to remember than first names) so it did take a little while to remember who was who whenever interactions happened between anyone.
On the flip side of that, the spaceship itself and all the technology was explained thoroughly enough that you could picture what was going on and what everything looked like (the ship itself for example has a very unique design)
Onto the storyline. This was more of a slow burn, creepy horror rather than a fast paced, in-your-face alien creature feature. It takes about half the book for things to really get going in the evil entity department, but I didn't feel like I was waiting around tapping my watch going 'is this gonna get going yet?'. I actually enjoyed all the lead up - in fact during the first quarter of the book I was kind of sad that I knew everything was going to go pear shaped because I was enjoying getting to know all the characters and just reading about their day to day ship life.
Talking about the characters, we mainly follow Gio, a computer technician for Xeno who has a dark past (content warning for mentions of past abuse) His best friend on the ship is Hugo, a botanist from Australia who is all about positive vibes. Because of such a large crew - in terms of 260-odd page book - a lot of the 12 members didn't have many personality traits, but I'd say at least half gave a lasting impression and had their own plot points (tension between two because of one's sexuality, a big religious plot, the job roles people had etc)
There was a bit of an open ended ending, which is always fun with these types of books. Should you feel happy? Should you feel sad? Should you feel a sense of foreboding? Who knows! I like it when books aren't wrapped up into a nice little neat bow, and keeps you thinking and guessing even after the last page.
Some more content warnings I'll put under spoiler tags. If you want to know then look here >
I was sent this book by the author, all opinions are my own.
September 23, 2022
An entertaining read and one that will likely feel very familiar to many of you. There are elements of several different movies to be found in this book, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Certainly worth a read.
June 22, 2024
This book really kind of blew me away. This book was suggested from my mom, and I thought it was going to be some lame space book. Lame it was not! The only thing I would change was some more character development.
March 10, 2024
On a colonization expedition, the inhabitants of the ship Xeno has 50,000 cryogenically frozen humans piloted by a supercomputer and a small crew of about a dozen people at a time. When Gio’s team wake up for their 3-month long shift of helping pilot and tend to the ship, they encounter an alien spacecraft that is drifting slowly towards them. The crew decides to take this craft inside their ship to study it as they feel this is a momentous discovery, but they were right for the wrong reasons. When one of the crew chooses to get near the alien artifact and touches it despite being warned not to, all hell breaks loose on Xeno. The crew now understands this ship and its inhabitant is on a quest to destroy their ship, their entire colonization, and humankind itself - and they can’t seem to stop it.
Super interesting sci-fi/horror book that started off as a typical space voyage to the next habitable planet that quickly turns into a horror novel with some bewildering scenes of destruction. Mostly told from Gio’s point of view, we watch as this small skeleton crew realize the gravity of the situation as they each are subjected to the fear for their survival. At the end, we don’t learn too much about the background of why this happened, but we do get some closure which is usually not expected in a typical horror novel.
Super interesting sci-fi/horror book that started off as a typical space voyage to the next habitable planet that quickly turns into a horror novel with some bewildering scenes of destruction. Mostly told from Gio’s point of view, we watch as this small skeleton crew realize the gravity of the situation as they each are subjected to the fear for their survival. At the end, we don’t learn too much about the background of why this happened, but we do get some closure which is usually not expected in a typical horror novel.
September 13, 2022
Part Alien, part The Thing, this is the kind of book I'm hard-wired to enjoy, and I did, very much. I've no real idea whether it's scientifically accurate and I'm not that bothered whether it is or not being that it's first and foremost a horror novel that happens to be set in space. There were a few things that annoyed me or took me out of the story - a scene with Acevedo near the end of the book being so unbelievable I was genuinely shocked she didn't turn out to be the monster - but nothing that spoiled my enjoyment of the book as a whole. What we have might be a timeworn trope (one I love) of a confined group of people being killed off one by one, but I felt this was done really well. The tension is kept high throughout, the deaths are gruesome and the mystery surrounding the alien entity is well explored. As I say, for me it's not without its flaws, but at the same time it's easily one the most enjoyable space horror novels I've read.
August 23, 2024
I have to admit, I downloaded this book initially as I was looking for some indie scifi and it was free at the time. But what a story!
This is exactly what I was looking for to fill the void of a solid scifi horror after the disappointment that was SA Barnes' Ghost Station.
The true unknown power of the alien entity was explored in so many ways, the only thing you could be certain of was that it would not end well for the crew of the Xeno.
Could probably do with either trigger warnings or a link to the author site where there could be a short list as one of the MCs suffers from extreme abuse as a child which is referenced several times.
But overall, a brilliant book and I'm thrilled to learn that 5 years later, a sequel is in the works!
This is exactly what I was looking for to fill the void of a solid scifi horror after the disappointment that was SA Barnes' Ghost Station.
The true unknown power of the alien entity was explored in so many ways, the only thing you could be certain of was that it would not end well for the crew of the Xeno.
Could probably do with either trigger warnings or a link to the author site where there could be a short list as one of the MCs suffers from extreme abuse as a child which is referenced several times.
But overall, a brilliant book and I'm thrilled to learn that 5 years later, a sequel is in the works!
November 11, 2024
This book was amazing on every single level. Horror books are a really difficult thing to write, they require the right amount and timing of action and inaction, horrific images and connection to your characters - all of which were present wonderfully inside here. There were moments that gave me actual chills and made me stare at my ceiling at night.
I've been going through some personal stuff so it took me time to get through it and forced me to read in small intervalls, but every single time I opened this book, it sucked me right in without hesistation.
I don't get how so few people read this. Absolutely recommend.
I've been going through some personal stuff so it took me time to get through it and forced me to read in small intervalls, but every single time I opened this book, it sucked me right in without hesistation.
I don't get how so few people read this. Absolutely recommend.
June 9, 2024
I enjoyed reading Xeno. If you like space horror with first contact themes, then I recommend reading this book.
Everything goes wrong after our crew finds an alien artifact. While that may not sound entirely original at first, there was a lot of variety, like ghosts, creatures, and more found in here.
The characters all had different personalities, each given their own chapters, going up against what the stories evil entity can do. The main character Gio was especially interesting.
I hope we get more space horror books, it's one of my favorite subgenres.
Everything goes wrong after our crew finds an alien artifact. While that may not sound entirely original at first, there was a lot of variety, like ghosts, creatures, and more found in here.
The characters all had different personalities, each given their own chapters, going up against what the stories evil entity can do. The main character Gio was especially interesting.
I hope we get more space horror books, it's one of my favorite subgenres.
February 9, 2025
Attention: SciFi horror fans!
If you're looking for a fast-paced enjoyable interstellar adventure into the unknown, with the wonder and strangeness of first contact, then check this one out.
A colony ship with 50,000 colonists onboard in cryopods and a skeleton crew, are heading to Terra Nova, a new planet to colonize. But when they discover an alien artifact in the deepness of space, first contact isn't at all what they expected it to be.
Although I really enjoyed the story, I would have liked to have seen a little more character development. Otherwise a solid 3 stars.
If you're looking for a fast-paced enjoyable interstellar adventure into the unknown, with the wonder and strangeness of first contact, then check this one out.
A colony ship with 50,000 colonists onboard in cryopods and a skeleton crew, are heading to Terra Nova, a new planet to colonize. But when they discover an alien artifact in the deepness of space, first contact isn't at all what they expected it to be.
Although I really enjoyed the story, I would have liked to have seen a little more character development. Otherwise a solid 3 stars.
April 20, 2023
I got a lot more than I bargained for with this book. It is beautifully written, exciting, and genuinely creepy. Space both fascinates and terrifies me, and there is a very claustrophobic feel to the whole book that adds another dimension. This is extremely good sci-fi horror. Also, props to the author for including a sex-repulsed asexual character. This is the first such character I've encountered in fiction, and representation matters.
May 14, 2023
Not the average sy fi novel
Reading this you can just imagine yourself being wisked away from planet earth. With some trepidation and excitement in tow. But don't be surprised if you change your mind a little later on about what to expect.
Very well written and assembled. Good characters and surrounding descriptions and, bonus! A free read for me. A retiree on a very small and fixed income I very much appreciate the opportunity to read this book. Thanks
Reading this you can just imagine yourself being wisked away from planet earth. With some trepidation and excitement in tow. But don't be surprised if you change your mind a little later on about what to expect.
Very well written and assembled. Good characters and surrounding descriptions and, bonus! A free read for me. A retiree on a very small and fixed income I very much appreciate the opportunity to read this book. Thanks
September 4, 2023
A very enjoyable sci fi horror. It has a familiar feel to other stories (if you tend to read this type like me), but there are also some unique happenings and it makes you think. There is an assortment of characters, some jerks and some sweethearts. I think it was a tad long in some parts and didn't have a sense of urgency, so it was a bit slow sometimes, but it ended up being a satisfying read.
October 1, 2023
Okay ummm I’m kinda disappointed that I didn’t enjoy this one. I honestly don’t know the last time I’ve read true sci fi, but the synopsis of this book sounded like a movie I’d 100% watch so figured I’d give it a read. It was just …eh. Idk, definitely eerie and kinda spooky but I just wasn’t diggin it overall. Shame.
Oh and also there were so many words I didn’t know in this book??? Thank god for kindle dictionary.
Oh and also there were so many words I didn’t know in this book??? Thank god for kindle dictionary.
January 27, 2025
HOLY SHIT INCREDIBLE!! so much gore and horror, with a godlike alien aboard the ship that kills for its own amusement. love how their situation only gets more despairing as they learn about their intruder, the crew getting killed one by one. i can’t believe i was getting jumpscared in a book lol. also… love the entity’s fascination with Gio. sexual assault occurs. and man that ending!! amazing horror read. lots of queer undertones!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2022
“… specialised in astrophysics….”
“…clearly highly intelligent….”
And chocked full of homosexuality and homosexual treats !!!
And I swear I have seen this plot somewhere before, maybe on TV?
Can this story please STOP soon ???????
OK…thank yew….
…but I did not “get” the ending…. ?????
.
.
“…clearly highly intelligent….”
And chocked full of homosexuality and homosexual treats !!!
And I swear I have seen this plot somewhere before, maybe on TV?
Can this story please STOP soon ???????
OK…thank yew….
…but I did not “get” the ending…. ?????
.
.
April 10, 2024
SF Horror at its Best
Think of a story with some of the traits of Alien and Event Horizon and you have a fair description of Xeno.
The storytelling is superb, the characterization perfect, and once the tension gets started, it never gives up. Be prepared for a sleepless night because you will find it impossible to put the book down.
Think of a story with some of the traits of Alien and Event Horizon and you have a fair description of Xeno.
The storytelling is superb, the characterization perfect, and once the tension gets started, it never gives up. Be prepared for a sleepless night because you will find it impossible to put the book down.
January 4, 2025
An incredible read
I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did! Very well written with believable characters and a truly nightmarish antagonist. I couldn't put the book down and read it in one sitting. I even felt chills reading the climax. A perfect blend of sci-fi and horror!
I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did! Very well written with believable characters and a truly nightmarish antagonist. I couldn't put the book down and read it in one sitting. I even felt chills reading the climax. A perfect blend of sci-fi and horror!
January 17, 2025
A few days and a couple books later some of the scenes of this book still come to mind. It really has some great horror.
Its characters are wholly unconvincing, except for the protagonist.
Overall a really good horror read. The sci-fi elements were a bit weaker, only lending itself to the setting really.
Its characters are wholly unconvincing, except for the protagonist.
Overall a really good horror read. The sci-fi elements were a bit weaker, only lending itself to the setting really.
September 10, 2022
Something different
I really enjoyed this book. Set entirely in space, it gives a great perspective of people's reaction to an impossible situation. And a peek into the true depth a person is capable of. I scarcely put it down!
I really enjoyed this book. Set entirely in space, it gives a great perspective of people's reaction to an impossible situation. And a peek into the true depth a person is capable of. I scarcely put it down!
December 23, 2024
Note : My rating does not reflect the writing.
It reflects how I felt about the book.
The movie ALien? This book makes it look like a kids movie.
It's far more horrific. If you love horror, and creepy monsters, it's for you.
I want to forget I read it.
It reflects how I felt about the book.
The movie ALien? This book makes it look like a kids movie.
It's far more horrific. If you love horror, and creepy monsters, it's for you.
I want to forget I read it.
January 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this! I couldn’t put it down. I loved the mix of sci fi and horror. The story pleasantly surprised me and wasn’t predictable really at all. I ended the book really hoping there was a sequel
November 15, 2020
another good book from nathan kuzack. in this one, an earth vessel is sent to populate a new earth-like world and finds a problem along the way, with an evil entity onboard. kuzack always delivers.
August 27, 2023
Great Premise
A roller-coaster ride to be cherished. A real sci-fi page Turner and a book I will certainly read again for sure.
A roller-coaster ride to be cherished. A real sci-fi page Turner and a book I will certainly read again for sure.
September 24, 2023
wow
That was terrifying , exciting and all around amazing to read.
I had to keep putting it down to collect myself.
That was terrifying , exciting and all around amazing to read.
I had to keep putting it down to collect myself.
October 12, 2023
This book waxed and waned in interest for me. Around 60% in, when we get the big twist and reveal, it really picked up. I did find myself not really caring about the characters.
May 13, 2024
Very reminiscent of Alien and Event Horizon. This is what a space horror story should be and I very much enjoyed it. Recommend!
February 5, 2025
This book shines in its scenes of grotesque, existential horror and suspense. Unfortunately the dialogue is clunky, and the gullible characters are little too oblivious and predictable for my taste.
July 15, 2025
Good story and kept me engaged. Wasn’t trilled with the ending, but it didn’t ruin it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews