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Seven Beyond
Recipient of the Bronze Science Fiction 2014 Reader Favorites Award.
Resident aliens escape a lost homeworld on a quest to find the New Restingplace of the Dead. A blood feud follows them to a colony on Earth. Can they avoid assassination and reach their destination before time runs out?
In this plot-driven journey story perfect for lovers of science fiction fantasy, diverse companions protect Longists Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer from curious close encounter seekers while they manage a shared dreamscape to bolster his memories of extraterrestrial travel. Will Dr. Meenins reconcile with his nemesis David Shanklen? Can the Longists hide in plain sight on Earth?
________
"Wielding a wickedly original pen and a universe-shattering imagination, author Stella Atrium delivers a tour de force of sci-fi fantasy. Reconceptualizing everything from mental illness and animal-keeping to hierarchical social structures and interstellar politics, there is no limit to the creative corners this book explores. The world-building is on par with other great sci-fi minds, folding reality seamlessly into myth and dream and memory. Seven Beyond is an impressive work of metaphysical fiction, and Atrium has confidently summoned an intricate realm for the reader’s imagination to run wild." -- Self-Publishing Review 2022
Resident aliens escape a lost homeworld on a quest to find the New Restingplace of the Dead. A blood feud follows them to a colony on Earth. Can they avoid assassination and reach their destination before time runs out?
In this plot-driven journey story perfect for lovers of science fiction fantasy, diverse companions protect Longists Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer from curious close encounter seekers while they manage a shared dreamscape to bolster his memories of extraterrestrial travel. Will Dr. Meenins reconcile with his nemesis David Shanklen? Can the Longists hide in plain sight on Earth?
________
"Wielding a wickedly original pen and a universe-shattering imagination, author Stella Atrium delivers a tour de force of sci-fi fantasy. Reconceptualizing everything from mental illness and animal-keeping to hierarchical social structures and interstellar politics, there is no limit to the creative corners this book explores. The world-building is on par with other great sci-fi minds, folding reality seamlessly into myth and dream and memory. Seven Beyond is an impressive work of metaphysical fiction, and Atrium has confidently summoned an intricate realm for the reader’s imagination to run wild." -- Self-Publishing Review 2022
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2002
9 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Stella Atrium
13 books418 followersStella Atrium is a cynical septuagenarian. She has spent a lifetime exploring female characters for real world reactions to obstacles. Often pushed into submissive and non-verbal roles, women really live in a world of networking among aunties, cousins, wives of husbands, convenient friends and neighbors. This rich world is largely unexplored.
“I grew up with all brothers, so I knew about women from stories and from school. What I found at school wasn’t anything like in the stories, so I set out to learn why.”
“I grew up with all brothers, so I knew about women from stories and from school. What I found at school wasn’t anything like in the stories, so I set out to learn why.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 2, 2022
An alien race is among us, but many people are unaware of their existence or prefer blissful ignorance as their safety net. Feelings are universal as instances of confusion and lust with other emotions are displayed throughout the book.
In "Seven Beyond," author Stella Atrium introduces her readers to several characters in the beginning chapters that make the reading a bit confusing. The story's momentum takes a natural pace but picks up as the chapters progress. After going through the character development and getting familiar with the various characters involved, the story begins to unfold most entertainingly. As you read, you will learn about Temporals and Longists, who are typical creatures and potential extraterrestrial beings that would be living amongst others. Love is something that no matter what race, or nationality you are, creature or human, there is no denial of that feeling. The most romantic scene occurred when John decided to leave, though he felt the intensity of love and care towards Felicity. We then learn that in John's tradition, a woman must initiate their road forever for a man to take her as his woman for life.
The author maintains the reader's attention by drawing you in at the start, leaving your mind to work out logistics of what is happening with the characters. Living a life similar to those of humans means there could be a shift in understanding as the veil between humans and aliens could be a bit alike. This book really makes you think of the endless possibilities of a world where both races merge on the same dimension and how would it go. It begins to add a level of insight that keeps the reader intrigued to uncover more as the story progresses. If you're not paying attention to every intricate detail described throughout this story, you might miss an important key to unlocking a new level in the book.
If you are a fan of historical science fiction novels, this book would be best suited for you. Aside from having an extraordinary imagination, the author does a fine job filling in all the details, which would usually go unnoticed. You will learn a bit about their history, why they are here, and what they hope to accomplish. Both Temporals and Longists are going through the course of "life" while enjoying themselves within the bounds of ecstasy. I recommend this book to those specifically in love with this genre because reading this is interesting, as someone would have to understand the story well.
In "Seven Beyond," author Stella Atrium introduces her readers to several characters in the beginning chapters that make the reading a bit confusing. The story's momentum takes a natural pace but picks up as the chapters progress. After going through the character development and getting familiar with the various characters involved, the story begins to unfold most entertainingly. As you read, you will learn about Temporals and Longists, who are typical creatures and potential extraterrestrial beings that would be living amongst others. Love is something that no matter what race, or nationality you are, creature or human, there is no denial of that feeling. The most romantic scene occurred when John decided to leave, though he felt the intensity of love and care towards Felicity. We then learn that in John's tradition, a woman must initiate their road forever for a man to take her as his woman for life.
The author maintains the reader's attention by drawing you in at the start, leaving your mind to work out logistics of what is happening with the characters. Living a life similar to those of humans means there could be a shift in understanding as the veil between humans and aliens could be a bit alike. This book really makes you think of the endless possibilities of a world where both races merge on the same dimension and how would it go. It begins to add a level of insight that keeps the reader intrigued to uncover more as the story progresses. If you're not paying attention to every intricate detail described throughout this story, you might miss an important key to unlocking a new level in the book.
If you are a fan of historical science fiction novels, this book would be best suited for you. Aside from having an extraordinary imagination, the author does a fine job filling in all the details, which would usually go unnoticed. You will learn a bit about their history, why they are here, and what they hope to accomplish. Both Temporals and Longists are going through the course of "life" while enjoying themselves within the bounds of ecstasy. I recommend this book to those specifically in love with this genre because reading this is interesting, as someone would have to understand the story well.
September 21, 2022
In ‘Seven Beyond’, the reader is treated to an out of the ordinary tale that takes one through various areas on space, and even the stars. The storyline starts off as a tad complex but soon the reader identifies with the plot. Stella Atrium wrote an intriguing book that will make you fall in love with sci fi as a genre, and get you interested in life in the outer world. The writing is magical and the author has an exceptional way of unfolding events. I also like that every chapter has a sub-plot that fuses well in the main plot.
‘Seven Beyond’ follows the story of 800 year old Dr. Meenins, a resident alien whose life gets to be entangled in a series of escapades that bring him trouble and reveal how strong one can be when faced with obstacles. Dr. Meenins has escaped his home and gone to find a new colony. His journey to this new place despite being adventurous is not easy. Traveling through the stars to hide in an alien colony exposed to Dr. Meenins the significance of having acquaintances, how to build a community, solving conflicts and adapting to new situations among other things. I like that despite the book being a fantasy novel, the author employed real life experiences that readers could relate to.
Stella Atrium is creative, imaginative and a genius of literature. Her book Seven Beyond is engrossing, thrilling and entertaining. Every sentence of every chapter is carefully constructed and the diction used outstanding. You can never get bored while reading the book. I also loved that the author was diverse when creating the characters, making each of them inimitable and with extraordinary qualities. The protagonists of the book is easy to like while the antagonists are special in their own ways.
‘Seven Beyond’ follows the story of 800 year old Dr. Meenins, a resident alien whose life gets to be entangled in a series of escapades that bring him trouble and reveal how strong one can be when faced with obstacles. Dr. Meenins has escaped his home and gone to find a new colony. His journey to this new place despite being adventurous is not easy. Traveling through the stars to hide in an alien colony exposed to Dr. Meenins the significance of having acquaintances, how to build a community, solving conflicts and adapting to new situations among other things. I like that despite the book being a fantasy novel, the author employed real life experiences that readers could relate to.
Stella Atrium is creative, imaginative and a genius of literature. Her book Seven Beyond is engrossing, thrilling and entertaining. Every sentence of every chapter is carefully constructed and the diction used outstanding. You can never get bored while reading the book. I also loved that the author was diverse when creating the characters, making each of them inimitable and with extraordinary qualities. The protagonists of the book is easy to like while the antagonists are special in their own ways.
April 22, 2014
In a lot of ways, “Seven Beyond” follows life as it happens. John, a merchant’s son, is brought into the fold as something of a musical apprentice and Felicity, an apprentice who gives lessons, has an overwhelming attraction to him. Atrium writes a romance that may be ill-fated but starts out quit courtly. There’s a firmly implied class structure that carries down from Lady Drasher to a merchant’s son. The structure of the world is mirrored in the characters and while some of what is written seems to have a touch of the modern world there is a taste of the medieval. “Seven Beyond” is a masterfully constructed story.
Atrium’s settings are a step back in time reminiscent of the greats of science fiction. These characters are a world apart from us and their freedom or lack thereof in this somewhat foreign and somewhat familiar world is enticing and speaks to Atrium’s creativity. I have read other novels by this author and there is a continuity of feeling.
The plotting of “Seven Beyond” is perhaps not traditional but readers won’t care. This is a story that won’t let go once it has you. Atrium’s work is unique and takes on a spectrum of emotions. If you like science fiction and eclectic tales, “Seven Beyond” is the novel for you.
Atrium’s settings are a step back in time reminiscent of the greats of science fiction. These characters are a world apart from us and their freedom or lack thereof in this somewhat foreign and somewhat familiar world is enticing and speaks to Atrium’s creativity. I have read other novels by this author and there is a continuity of feeling.
The plotting of “Seven Beyond” is perhaps not traditional but readers won’t care. This is a story that won’t let go once it has you. Atrium’s work is unique and takes on a spectrum of emotions. If you like science fiction and eclectic tales, “Seven Beyond” is the novel for you.
March 4, 2014
One of the reviews for Seven Beyond describes it as 'simply mesmerising' and I can't disagree. Highly original, written with style and flair, the story and plot are pure escapism. I can't praise author Stella Atrium enough. She has a new covert!
September 11, 2022
A dreamy world that seeks to combine the reality as we know it with a reality that we don’t. Beings from afar are fleeing potential persecution and come to rest at the Earth, in an attempt to rebuild their lives. Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium is indeed a wonderful book, but you must be willing to allow yourself to be carried away. This is not a book for those who want to keep themselves separate from the story being told. You must be willing to be consumed by the book, by the story and the prose, in order to truly grasp the tale that is being spun.
The story is truly an original amalgamation of science fiction and fantasy, involving a timeline that is not quite clear and a journey that sways between the physical and the ethereal. There are many twists and turns, a plethora of characters and dreams of galactic travel. A past has been forgotten and it must be remembered. A present is being lived while a future is dreamed about. Atrium is quite good at her craft: the narrative is prose-heavy and very dream-like in its delivery. The world feels a little out of touch: as though you can reach for it, but you will always feel like something is missing. The characters are well developed for such a world, but the story does pull you in, provided you let yourself be swallowed whole.
Perhaps a blessing and a curse, this book will not be for everyone. Not everyone is able or willing to be completely consumed by the story they are reading. It is difficult to follow the twists and turns if the reader tries to apply their logic to the tale. The setting can be difficult to connect with as well: it takes place on our Earth, but it is not our Earth at the same time. A mix of historical and current settings can be confusing for some which may make it harder to enjoy the story.
If you want a book that you can completely be consumed by, and enjoy being lost in pages, then you should pick up a copy of Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium. You must be prepared, as the reader, to allow yourself to be swallowed by the book. It is the only way the prose-like narrative and the endless effort that went into crafting this world could truly be appreciated.
The story is truly an original amalgamation of science fiction and fantasy, involving a timeline that is not quite clear and a journey that sways between the physical and the ethereal. There are many twists and turns, a plethora of characters and dreams of galactic travel. A past has been forgotten and it must be remembered. A present is being lived while a future is dreamed about. Atrium is quite good at her craft: the narrative is prose-heavy and very dream-like in its delivery. The world feels a little out of touch: as though you can reach for it, but you will always feel like something is missing. The characters are well developed for such a world, but the story does pull you in, provided you let yourself be swallowed whole.
Perhaps a blessing and a curse, this book will not be for everyone. Not everyone is able or willing to be completely consumed by the story they are reading. It is difficult to follow the twists and turns if the reader tries to apply their logic to the tale. The setting can be difficult to connect with as well: it takes place on our Earth, but it is not our Earth at the same time. A mix of historical and current settings can be confusing for some which may make it harder to enjoy the story.
If you want a book that you can completely be consumed by, and enjoy being lost in pages, then you should pick up a copy of Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium. You must be prepared, as the reader, to allow yourself to be swallowed by the book. It is the only way the prose-like narrative and the endless effort that went into crafting this world could truly be appreciated.
September 13, 2022
Seven Beyond is a historical, science-fiction fantasy quest novel written by Stella Atrium. The story is driven by the plot via conversations of the characters, who are introduced in conversation. This book starts off with end of the world vibes. We have alien forces, a star traveler seeking refuge, and some history and religion in the mix. Dr. Meenins is an old traveler who comes to Earth to hide in a colony of aliens. Other aliens have also sought refuge on Earth for their New Resting Place of the dead, but danger follows them. It then becomes a fight for their survival.
Seven Beyond is an interesting amalgamation of different genres that works well. Artrium can blend the genres seamlessly, which I think is not something that writers can do easily. It was a little slow at first (also a little confusing), but then it took a turn, and I was completely invested. I had a hard time putting the book down. I think it was fast-paced but not because of the action, but because of the unique way Atrium told the story. I don’t see a lot of books where authors use conversation to drive the plot, and Artrium does it so well. I loved the natural flow of conversations. I also love how the conversations are used to world-build and tell the story and plot. There were also some funny moments in the conversation and some thought-provoking moments.
I think that lovers of science-fiction and fantasy would love this quest novel. It’s weird and unique but in a fun way. I know the beginning can be a little slow and confusing, but continuing with it is worth it. I would have liked a little explanation more with the world-building, like the meaning of words, but it was overall enjoyable.
Seven Beyond is an interesting amalgamation of different genres that works well. Artrium can blend the genres seamlessly, which I think is not something that writers can do easily. It was a little slow at first (also a little confusing), but then it took a turn, and I was completely invested. I had a hard time putting the book down. I think it was fast-paced but not because of the action, but because of the unique way Atrium told the story. I don’t see a lot of books where authors use conversation to drive the plot, and Artrium does it so well. I loved the natural flow of conversations. I also love how the conversations are used to world-build and tell the story and plot. There were also some funny moments in the conversation and some thought-provoking moments.
I think that lovers of science-fiction and fantasy would love this quest novel. It’s weird and unique but in a fun way. I know the beginning can be a little slow and confusing, but continuing with it is worth it. I would have liked a little explanation more with the world-building, like the meaning of words, but it was overall enjoyable.
February 2, 2023
I recently read Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium, and I was thoroughly impressed with the way she crafted the story. I was gifted this book by the author in exchange for a review. It is a gripping tale of Dr. Meenins, who embarks on a journey to try and understand the mysterious dreams and his guilty conscious. As he starts on his journey Linda Deemer is sent to help him. Along with a whole cast of travel companions that help him to chase away his haunted memories.
The author does an excellent job of creating a vivid and captivating setting, full action, and intrigue around Dr. Meenins. The action is awesome and I loved the cast of characters. I found myself rooted in the unpredictable world of Seven Beyond.
Overall, Seven Beyond is an exciting and thought-provoking read that I highly recommend. Stella Atrium is a talented writer, and I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
The author does an excellent job of creating a vivid and captivating setting, full action, and intrigue around Dr. Meenins. The action is awesome and I loved the cast of characters. I found myself rooted in the unpredictable world of Seven Beyond.
Overall, Seven Beyond is an exciting and thought-provoking read that I highly recommend. Stella Atrium is a talented writer, and I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
August 13, 2025
Seven Beyond is an extraordinary fusion of philosophical depth and speculative wonder. Stella Atrium doesn’t just tell a story, she creates an experience that invites you to slow down, think deeply, and savor every sentence.
The premise hooked me immediately: resident aliens fleeing a lost homeworld, carrying a centuries-old blood feud, and seeking a place where their dead can finally rest. But what impressed me even more was how Atrium uses this framework to explore humanity itself. Through the eyes of Dr. Meenins, Linda Deemer, and their diverse companions, we witness the fragility of memory, the persistence of identity, and the cost of exile.
I especially loved the balance between the cosmic and the personal. There are moments where you feel the sweep of galaxies, the weight of history, and the scope of political intrigue, yet the emotional beats are always grounded in intimate, human (and alien) relationships. The dreamscape sequences were some of my favorite parts, blurring the line between reality and memory in a way that felt almost poetic.
For readers who enjoy Ursula K. Le Guin’s thoughtfulness or David Mitchell’s layered narratives, Seven Beyond offers a similarly rich reward. It’s the kind of book that lingers not because of a cliffhanger or shock twist, but because its ideas and emotions have quietly rooted themselves in your mind.
Truly a gem of literary science fiction.
The premise hooked me immediately: resident aliens fleeing a lost homeworld, carrying a centuries-old blood feud, and seeking a place where their dead can finally rest. But what impressed me even more was how Atrium uses this framework to explore humanity itself. Through the eyes of Dr. Meenins, Linda Deemer, and their diverse companions, we witness the fragility of memory, the persistence of identity, and the cost of exile.
I especially loved the balance between the cosmic and the personal. There are moments where you feel the sweep of galaxies, the weight of history, and the scope of political intrigue, yet the emotional beats are always grounded in intimate, human (and alien) relationships. The dreamscape sequences were some of my favorite parts, blurring the line between reality and memory in a way that felt almost poetic.
For readers who enjoy Ursula K. Le Guin’s thoughtfulness or David Mitchell’s layered narratives, Seven Beyond offers a similarly rich reward. It’s the kind of book that lingers not because of a cliffhanger or shock twist, but because its ideas and emotions have quietly rooted themselves in your mind.
Truly a gem of literary science fiction.
May 21, 2023
Seven Beyond is a captivating science fiction novel that took me into an exhilarating journey through a richly imagined universe. Atrium's masterful storytelling, intricate world-building, and diverse cast of characters make this book a must-read for everyone who enjoys this kind of stories. The author's attention to detail and meticulous research add depth and authenticity to the story, while the exploration of existential questions and the human condition brings a thought-provoking element to the narrative, which I really enjoy. This reading, even though it is a novel, make me have an introspective journey as the pages go on. With a perfect balance of thrilling action and introspective moments, Seven Beyond offers an immersive and intellectually stimulating reading experience. Atrium's skillful storytelling and captivating imagination make this book a true gem that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
August 13, 2025
Some books entertain you. Others stay with you. Seven Beyond belongs firmly in the second category. Stella Atrium has written something both deeply human and beautifully strange, a story that manages to feel epic in scale yet achingly personal at its core.
At the heart of this journey are Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer, whose bond is unlike any I’ve seen in science fiction. It’s not the typical hero-companion dynamic; it’s a layered, evolving partnership rooted in mutual trust, shared responsibility, and a quiet understanding of each other’s burdens. Through them, Atrium explores themes of loyalty, loss, and the ways we carry the weight of the past.
I found myself particularly moved by the portrayal of exile not just as physical displacement, but as an emotional state. The characters are always between worlds, between identities, between versions of themselves. That tension gives the novel a bittersweet beauty, as they search not just for a destination, but for peace.
The prose is elegant and deliberate, offering moments of breathtaking imagery that made me pause and reread. And the dreamscape passages… they felt like stepping into another consciousness, where memory and reality blend into something both unsettling and profound.
If you’re looking for a book that will touch your heart as much as it stimulates your mind, Seven Beyond is it.
At the heart of this journey are Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer, whose bond is unlike any I’ve seen in science fiction. It’s not the typical hero-companion dynamic; it’s a layered, evolving partnership rooted in mutual trust, shared responsibility, and a quiet understanding of each other’s burdens. Through them, Atrium explores themes of loyalty, loss, and the ways we carry the weight of the past.
I found myself particularly moved by the portrayal of exile not just as physical displacement, but as an emotional state. The characters are always between worlds, between identities, between versions of themselves. That tension gives the novel a bittersweet beauty, as they search not just for a destination, but for peace.
The prose is elegant and deliberate, offering moments of breathtaking imagery that made me pause and reread. And the dreamscape passages… they felt like stepping into another consciousness, where memory and reality blend into something both unsettling and profound.
If you’re looking for a book that will touch your heart as much as it stimulates your mind, Seven Beyond is it.
September 15, 2022
Seven Beyond, written by Stella Atrium, is a middle length novel with a totally captivating plot. It has a very well created mixture of science fiction and fantasy with intrigue that captured my attention completely.
I liked the characters because they are complex and well developed from the very beginning. They are also described very well, making the reader empathise with some of them.
The author's narrative is captivating from the start; it was difficult to stop reading. I would totally recommend it!
I liked the characters because they are complex and well developed from the very beginning. They are also described very well, making the reader empathise with some of them.
The author's narrative is captivating from the start; it was difficult to stop reading. I would totally recommend it!
May 22, 2023
Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium is a great science fiction book selection for readers.
In this story, we get to know a group of resident aliens that have escaped their home to go on a quest to find another one. However, a blood feud follows them, and they will have to face their inner demons to be at peace as a community.
In my opinion, it was a comfortable read. The plot unravelled itself smoothly and the characters had a full development from beginning to end. However, it was quite a challenging read. Being in the science fiction world, learning new settings and characters can be quite a challenge, and in this book, it was the case.
All in all, it was a compelling and page-turner read and I would recommend it to many readers!
In this story, we get to know a group of resident aliens that have escaped their home to go on a quest to find another one. However, a blood feud follows them, and they will have to face their inner demons to be at peace as a community.
In my opinion, it was a comfortable read. The plot unravelled itself smoothly and the characters had a full development from beginning to end. However, it was quite a challenging read. Being in the science fiction world, learning new settings and characters can be quite a challenge, and in this book, it was the case.
All in all, it was a compelling and page-turner read and I would recommend it to many readers!
May 19, 2023
"Seven Beyond" presents an enthralling science fiction fantasy that takes readers on a captivating ride. Fleeing their lost home world, a group of resident aliens embarks on a perilous quest to find a new sanctuary for the deceased. However, a blood feud pursues them to an Earth colony, threatening their very existence. The story unfolds as diverse companions rally together to protect Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer, Longists who carry vital memories of galactic travel. Battling assassination attempts and navigating a shared dreamscape, they strive to reconcile with their nemesis, David Shanklen. The gripping plot keeps readers on edge, pondering whether they can maintain their secrecy amidst curious close encounter seekers. "Seven Beyond" is a thrilling and immersive adventure for science fiction enthusiasts seeking a blend of mystery, interstellar travel, and hidden identities.
April 2, 2023
The book is well done. I'll keep it spoiler free but I enjoyed the plot a lot. The main character is amazing. The story is well paced for a science fiction novel. The worldbuilding is interwoven well into the story. It's brilliant
I recommend a read.
I recommend a read.
May 18, 2023
''Seven Beyond'' by Stella Atrium is a mix of science fiction and fantasy novel. Where a group of aliens is finding a new home.
It is a story that you must read carefully and pay full attention to all the details that the author puts into it. This book has an incredible vocabulary which can be challenging for some people, but it fits the story perfectly. The way that the author writes is great and reaches to transport us to a different world even when she does reference so many social and political problems that we can find in real life. I really enjoyed this book; it is a masterpiece.
May 16, 2023
Aliens on Earth
Fleeing factions on their homework, a group of aliens make a new home on our earth. Their journey was harrowing as the political and ideological persecution seemed to have followed them. The main character, Dr. Meenins attempts to secretly integrate his people into earth society, all while exploring a new dreamscape in order to unlock his memories and evade his arch nemesis. While this book is a sci-fi saga, the main setting is earth, so it feels familiar. The writing is very descriptive and prosaic, which makes it hard to read. There is also a very slow start when the author is introducing the various characters, so you have to get over that hurdle before the story begins to flow more smoothly.
Fleeing factions on their homework, a group of aliens make a new home on our earth. Their journey was harrowing as the political and ideological persecution seemed to have followed them. The main character, Dr. Meenins attempts to secretly integrate his people into earth society, all while exploring a new dreamscape in order to unlock his memories and evade his arch nemesis. While this book is a sci-fi saga, the main setting is earth, so it feels familiar. The writing is very descriptive and prosaic, which makes it hard to read. There is also a very slow start when the author is introducing the various characters, so you have to get over that hurdle before the story begins to flow more smoothly.
August 28, 2022
An unforgettable story
“Seven Beyond” by Stella Atrium is an awesome science fiction book. I was at the edge of my seat while reading it, intrigued by the action in it and by the thoughts and feelings of the witty characters.
I believe this book is perfect for the new generations, mainly because there is not time to rest. I felt my brain and my soul were completely trapped and into the plot, following the characters and thinking about: “what could possibly happen next?”. The story did not stop surprising me.
I was flabbergasted by this reader and this is why I give this fiction five stars. I recommend it to fiction lovers!
“Seven Beyond” by Stella Atrium is an awesome science fiction book. I was at the edge of my seat while reading it, intrigued by the action in it and by the thoughts and feelings of the witty characters.
I believe this book is perfect for the new generations, mainly because there is not time to rest. I felt my brain and my soul were completely trapped and into the plot, following the characters and thinking about: “what could possibly happen next?”. The story did not stop surprising me.
I was flabbergasted by this reader and this is why I give this fiction five stars. I recommend it to fiction lovers!
August 29, 2022
With a simple cover, this middle length book captured my attention at first sight. Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium is a historical sci-fi fantasy story that hooked me from the start. It is well written and a must read for fantasy lovers. Its world-building, its development and its pace are all magnificently done.
I liked this book and I would like to read more by this award winning author who provides us with a tale with diversity. I think those who enjoy science fiction and fantasy would love to read Seven Beyond. I am certainly going to recommend this book!
I liked this book and I would like to read more by this award winning author who provides us with a tale with diversity. I think those who enjoy science fiction and fantasy would love to read Seven Beyond. I am certainly going to recommend this book!
August 27, 2022
Seven Beyond is a fascinating metaphysical novel. Its author, Stella Atrium, has created a complex and intricate world that I am sure will blow readers’ minds. The work is original and imaginative. The plot is very well-developed and it soon captivates readers.
Mixing an invisible world of immortal and powerful beings with aliens and humans, this novel narrates a story that goes beyond the imaginable.
Its main character, Dr. Meenins, is guided through an internal journey to free his troubled mind. He embarks on a search to find the answer to some of the greatest mysteries of existence.
This is a great book for science fiction and fantasy lovers. I enjoyed it a lot and I recommendit.
Mixing an invisible world of immortal and powerful beings with aliens and humans, this novel narrates a story that goes beyond the imaginable.
Its main character, Dr. Meenins, is guided through an internal journey to free his troubled mind. He embarks on a search to find the answer to some of the greatest mysteries of existence.
This is a great book for science fiction and fantasy lovers. I enjoyed it a lot and I recommendit.
August 25, 2022
Very interesting.
If you are a fan of science fiction, fantasy and stories based on aliens and inter-galactic journeys, this book is for you.
Seven Beyond is a unique novel written by Stella Atrium. One of the main characters is Dr. Meenins, an 800-year-old alien who, along with other aliens, has travelled through the stars to Earth to hide in an alien colony while searching for the New Resting Place of the Dead.
The author created a plot that tells an interesting story, in which she mixes metaphysical concepts with realistic stories and good morals. It is definitely a complex book and it is necessary to pay a lot of attention to understand it but it engaged me and I enjoyed it!
If you are a fan of science fiction, fantasy and stories based on aliens and inter-galactic journeys, this book is for you.
Seven Beyond is a unique novel written by Stella Atrium. One of the main characters is Dr. Meenins, an 800-year-old alien who, along with other aliens, has travelled through the stars to Earth to hide in an alien colony while searching for the New Resting Place of the Dead.
The author created a plot that tells an interesting story, in which she mixes metaphysical concepts with realistic stories and good morals. It is definitely a complex book and it is necessary to pay a lot of attention to understand it but it engaged me and I enjoyed it!
August 25, 2022
“Seven Beyond” is a great piece of work. I’ve to say that I really liked it.
I enjoyed the characters, especially the interesting protagonists, the setting and the intricate world of the galactic travels. Another positive point was the fact that the author didn’t fall into the repetition of creating non-sense scenes.
However, I give the book four stars and not five because the plot is a little confusing with so many twists that sometimes, I lost the idea and I had to read the paragraph again. All in all, this is just my opinion and nothing that has conditioned me to leave it aside.
For fantasy buffs, this is a must read!
I enjoyed the characters, especially the interesting protagonists, the setting and the intricate world of the galactic travels. Another positive point was the fact that the author didn’t fall into the repetition of creating non-sense scenes.
However, I give the book four stars and not five because the plot is a little confusing with so many twists that sometimes, I lost the idea and I had to read the paragraph again. All in all, this is just my opinion and nothing that has conditioned me to leave it aside.
For fantasy buffs, this is a must read!
August 26, 2022
Seven Beyond is a fantasy novel featuring a strange world and characters that are memorable with uncertainty. I like reading stories about the unusual and this one was perfectly fitting for that aspect, given the main character is an 800-year-old traveller who is working with alien colonies. Definitely recommended for readers who enjoy the fantasy or sci-fi genres, as this captivated me from the beginning with vivid scenes and descriptions. It took me a few chapters to really feel pulled in, but once I was in, I was so glad I had chosen to give this one a chance and drive into the world with the characters.
August 22, 2022
The author, Stella Atrium, is a cynical septuagenarian, she is an award-winning fantasy writer who wrote this marvellous book. You follow Dr. Meeins an 800-year-old resident alien who's escaped his lost home world to find a new resting place of the dead, which is Earth. It's not all easy though. He relives his memories of galactic travel by exploring this dreamscape, all whilst being protected by his friends. A blood feud follows Meeins and his friends towards a colony on earth, they try and stave off assassination for as long as possible. An interesting book with an interesting plot based around diversity and facing your guilt because of your previous actions. A great read for lovers of science fiction. If you enjoy books like that, then you might like this one.
September 22, 2025
Seven Beyond is unlike any science fiction novel I’ve read before. From the very first page, Stella Atrium’s prose drew me into a world that is both vast in its scope and intimate in its emotions. This isn’t just a story about interstellar travel, it’s a meditation on identity, exile, and the echoes of memory that shape who we are.
Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer are two of the most intriguing companions I’ve met in fiction. Their dynamic is layered, laced with mutual respect, unspoken grief, and a shared sense of purpose. I especially loved how the novel balances quiet, philosophical conversations with bursts of political tension and moments of dangerous beauty. Atrium’s worldbuilding is detailed without ever becoming overwhelming; the alien cultures feel lived-in, and the dreamscape sequences are hauntingly vivid.
What stayed with me most was the undercurrent of longing, the sense of searching for a “New Restingplace of the Dead” and the constant question of what it means to truly belong. Even after closing the book, I found myself thinking about its questions long into the night.
This is a novel for readers who crave more than action in their sci-fi. It’s for those who want to sit with ideas, who don’t mind lingering in the spaces between stars, and who believe that the most epic journeys are the ones we take within ourselves.
Dr. Meenins and Linda Deemer are two of the most intriguing companions I’ve met in fiction. Their dynamic is layered, laced with mutual respect, unspoken grief, and a shared sense of purpose. I especially loved how the novel balances quiet, philosophical conversations with bursts of political tension and moments of dangerous beauty. Atrium’s worldbuilding is detailed without ever becoming overwhelming; the alien cultures feel lived-in, and the dreamscape sequences are hauntingly vivid.
What stayed with me most was the undercurrent of longing, the sense of searching for a “New Restingplace of the Dead” and the constant question of what it means to truly belong. Even after closing the book, I found myself thinking about its questions long into the night.
This is a novel for readers who crave more than action in their sci-fi. It’s for those who want to sit with ideas, who don’t mind lingering in the spaces between stars, and who believe that the most epic journeys are the ones we take within ourselves.
April 10, 2023
In all honesty, I think this book needs more readers.
It is well-written, imaginative, and dreamy.
BUT I must say that it may not be the book for everyone. I, for example, had trouble connecting with the book during the first few chapters. I was confused as to what was happening, but I still gave it a chance, and it did not disappoint. Also, I usually don't read prose-heavy books and when I do, I usually ended up not liking them BUT this one... *chef's kisses*
Keeping this review short as I am lost for words for this book.
Another book you should add to your TBR ;)
It is well-written, imaginative, and dreamy.
BUT I must say that it may not be the book for everyone. I, for example, had trouble connecting with the book during the first few chapters. I was confused as to what was happening, but I still gave it a chance, and it did not disappoint. Also, I usually don't read prose-heavy books and when I do, I usually ended up not liking them BUT this one... *chef's kisses*
Keeping this review short as I am lost for words for this book.
Another book you should add to your TBR ;)
August 9, 2016
As soon as you begin reading this novel you note how the author has given much attention to detail, and how she has maximised her ability to use descriptive prose in an effective way, to bring the scene alive in the reader’s mind. The writing is really good, and the styling of the story is quite different from the standard way a sci-fi/fantasy novel is usually written. It was refreshing to read a book which had good editing also. I personally found the first half of the novel to be mysterious and intriguing, but somewhat confusing at the same time. However, I can appreciate how this also compelled me to read on, so I could figure out all the nuances of the plot, and to see how the story played out. Overall, I quite liked this book, and I enjoyed how it was surprising in its styling, and designed to be read by the more ‘intellectual’ reader.
June 6, 2025
Recommended
At first, I wasn’t sure I would like Seven Beyond, but I ended up really liking the characters. Linda Deemer and Dr. Meenins have such a unique relationship; it’s not romantic, but they rely on each other in strange ways. There’s a lot of tension between the people in this book, and that kept me turning pages. I was especially intrigued by how old wounds and grudges still influence their actions even after centuries.
I didn’t fully understand the politics or alien cultures at first, but I didn’t mind. For me, it was about the people, how they interact, and how they carry pain and hope through time. The character Lady Drasher really jumped off the page; funny, sharp, and unpredictable. I'd read a whole book just about her.
At first, I wasn’t sure I would like Seven Beyond, but I ended up really liking the characters. Linda Deemer and Dr. Meenins have such a unique relationship; it’s not romantic, but they rely on each other in strange ways. There’s a lot of tension between the people in this book, and that kept me turning pages. I was especially intrigued by how old wounds and grudges still influence their actions even after centuries.
I didn’t fully understand the politics or alien cultures at first, but I didn’t mind. For me, it was about the people, how they interact, and how they carry pain and hope through time. The character Lady Drasher really jumped off the page; funny, sharp, and unpredictable. I'd read a whole book just about her.
June 10, 2025
Great book
Reading Seven Beyond felt like taking a long journey through time and space. It’s not your typical space opera. It’s more like a puzzle, with little clues dropped along the way. I loved the way the story slowly unfolded and built tension. Stella Atrium is clearly a smart writer who isn’t afraid to take risks. The pacing might be slow for some readers, but I enjoyed that—it gave me time to really absorb the characters and their histories. The shared dreamscape scenes were especially fascinating. I haven’t read anything quite like this before. It reminded me a bit of Cloud Atlas with its layers and complexity. If you’re patient and enjoy literary-style sci-fi, this is a gem.
Reading Seven Beyond felt like taking a long journey through time and space. It’s not your typical space opera. It’s more like a puzzle, with little clues dropped along the way. I loved the way the story slowly unfolded and built tension. Stella Atrium is clearly a smart writer who isn’t afraid to take risks. The pacing might be slow for some readers, but I enjoyed that—it gave me time to really absorb the characters and their histories. The shared dreamscape scenes were especially fascinating. I haven’t read anything quite like this before. It reminded me a bit of Cloud Atlas with its layers and complexity. If you’re patient and enjoy literary-style sci-fi, this is a gem.
October 5, 2022
Seven Beyond by Stella Atrium is a sci-fi/fantasy novel featuring an alien race that makes their way to Earth. The main character, Dr. Meenins, is an alien who is seeking to survive an angry adversary, and his escape leads him to the planet we’re all familiar with. However, the political undercurrent of those around him is a swirling vortex of intrigue and guile. Even more interesting is the conflict within Meenins himself, as he reflects on the moral and philosophical implications of his actions, and the actions of those around him, including some human individuals who have their own motivations.
It is the depth of conflict within Meenins that brought me the most entertainment with this novel. The way that Atrium is able to craft the musings of a philosophical mind with such tenacity is truly inspiring. While the prose created a feel of more classical literature, the topics breached felt raw, as if their relevance to current society could not be better stated. Where classic literature might whimsically dance around the subjects, Atrium does a march in that direction. Still beautiful and poetic, but much more direct.
If this book has any weaknesses, it might be that the prose will be inaccessible to those who possess an average reading ability in current society. To be honest, it’s not much of a weakness, because there is nothing wrong with a book demanding more of its reader, and this book demands plenty. If you happen to be a reader with a good amount of patience and can swallow your pride to re-read something that didn’t make sense the first time, this might be the book for you. As for me, I will likely read it again to see how the first few chapters feel with a better sense of what is happening. 4 stars.
It is the depth of conflict within Meenins that brought me the most entertainment with this novel. The way that Atrium is able to craft the musings of a philosophical mind with such tenacity is truly inspiring. While the prose created a feel of more classical literature, the topics breached felt raw, as if their relevance to current society could not be better stated. Where classic literature might whimsically dance around the subjects, Atrium does a march in that direction. Still beautiful and poetic, but much more direct.
If this book has any weaknesses, it might be that the prose will be inaccessible to those who possess an average reading ability in current society. To be honest, it’s not much of a weakness, because there is nothing wrong with a book demanding more of its reader, and this book demands plenty. If you happen to be a reader with a good amount of patience and can swallow your pride to re-read something that didn’t make sense the first time, this might be the book for you. As for me, I will likely read it again to see how the first few chapters feel with a better sense of what is happening. 4 stars.
November 2, 2025
What makes Seven Beyond stand out in the realm of science fiction is its refusal to paint characters in simple black-and-white terms. Stella Atrium gives us a cast that feels authentically human, flawed, layered, and constantly evolving.
Dr. Meenins, with his fragmented memories and elusive truths, is both sympathetic and enigmatic. Linda Deemer, fiercely capable yet quietly burdened, is a grounding force in the story. Even secondary characters, like the companions who join their journey, have distinct voices, motivations, and moral codes. No one is here just to serve the plot, they each carry their own histories, and you feel the weight of those histories in every choice they make.
I appreciated how Atrium avoids easy heroes and villains. Conflicts are often driven by cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and deeply held beliefs rather than by one-dimensional malice. This makes the political and personal stakes much more compelling, you understand why every side believes they’re in the right, even when their choices have painful consequences.
The result is a story where relationships are as tense and unpredictable as the journey itself. You care about these characters not because they’re perfect, but because they’re real. And by the end, you realize that the moral questions the book raises are just as relevant to our world as they are to Atrium’s galaxies.
Dr. Meenins, with his fragmented memories and elusive truths, is both sympathetic and enigmatic. Linda Deemer, fiercely capable yet quietly burdened, is a grounding force in the story. Even secondary characters, like the companions who join their journey, have distinct voices, motivations, and moral codes. No one is here just to serve the plot, they each carry their own histories, and you feel the weight of those histories in every choice they make.
I appreciated how Atrium avoids easy heroes and villains. Conflicts are often driven by cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and deeply held beliefs rather than by one-dimensional malice. This makes the political and personal stakes much more compelling, you understand why every side believes they’re in the right, even when their choices have painful consequences.
The result is a story where relationships are as tense and unpredictable as the journey itself. You care about these characters not because they’re perfect, but because they’re real. And by the end, you realize that the moral questions the book raises are just as relevant to our world as they are to Atrium’s galaxies.
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