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Solarborne

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In "Solarborne" embark on a thrilling journey with Aera Cain, a fearless survivor of Earth's demise, as she is thrust into a cosmic mission of epic proportions. Tasked by the mysterious Curator to become the space captain of the Leviathan, Aera and her diverse crew race against time to uncover ancient artifacts that hold the power to save the universe from impending doom.



As they navigate through treacherous landscapes and face unforseen challenges on Hex-947, Aera must confront uncertainty and find strength in the face of adversity. Amidst the chaos, she discovers an unexpected connection that defies all odds. Can Aera harness her courage, outsmart the ticking clock of fate, and prevent a catastrophic event that threatens all existence? "Solarborne" is a gripping scifi adventure brimming with intrigue, danger, and the indomitable spirit of a heroine standing against the unknown.

245 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 2, 2024

3 people are currently reading
24 people want to read

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Embry Hale

3 books3 followers

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Roz Anne.
343 reviews40 followers
July 2, 2024
We follow Aera Cain and her crew mates on an epic adventure across space... Earth is dead, but the rest of the universe can be saved...

The first part of the book sees the crew exploring multiple planets to try to find artefacts to save the universe. This gave me Guardian of the Galaxy vibes. I felt these missions happened quite quickly, and there could have been more depth and detail included. I say this because the author creates such interesting worlds/characters that I'd just have liked more. I'd include the back story and character development in this, too, as I feel this could have been done in more detail.

However, by the midpoint of the book, until the end, things ramp up, and the stakes are higher, the book becomes tense and really gets going. The story is enjoyable and makes sense with everything coming together in the end.

The pacing is good, especially by the midpoint. The book is not overly scientific, which often some sci-fi books are, and it therefore feels accessible to a larger audience.

There is romance within the book, but this in no way takes away from the overall story, and there is no spice again making the book accessible.

Overall, this was a really good debut novel, and I'm interested to see where book two takes us!

With thanks to the author for providing an ARC. This is my honest opinion, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Dana C..
Author 7 books17 followers
June 20, 2024
Aera Cain escaped catastrophe on Earth, and now, six years later in the vast expanse of space, she is faced with another. This one is of universal proportions, and could wipe out everything she's discovered exists outside of her home planet. Along with her crew, she now wrestles with strange power, mysterious artifacts, and secrets that followed her across space and time.

I enjoyed the premise for this book. Everything outside what we know, advance technology, and a trip through space are always a yes for me.

One thing that I wish I would have seen more of was depth. In the plot, in the backatory, in the world setting itself. I felt like a lot of details were missing as I read, things that could have connected me more with the characters and the conflict and the universe laid out here.

Captain Aera Cain was a strong FMC to follow, and I liked seeing how she interacted with the universe after losing everyone and everything she knew.

It's fast paced, fun, and exciting!
Profile Image for Gareth Davies.
Author 8 books41 followers
October 23, 2024
Solarborne is a fast-paced romp through the galaxies, starting with Earth's sudden destruction and escalating to the possible end of everything. Intriguing plot twists abound as we follow the journey of Aera Cain, a space pilot still reeling from escaping Earth's demise, as she's given a mysterious and impossible-sounding task. A colorful supporting cast aids and abets her in her mission, which is intimately tied to her own past. The real journey here is Aera's self-discovery, and she has a lot to learn.

I got a little confused by some of the science references, but not so much that it interfered with what is an enthralling tale. I hear there is a sequel in the works, and I will be in line to read it!
Profile Image for Nupur.
533 reviews14 followers
July 8, 2024
Wonderful Sci-fi Book
Rating- 4.5/5
What a fantastic read! I just loved the whole concept. It just played in my head like a sci-fi movie as I read the chapters. The story revolves around the Female MC and her journey after she escapes the death wave on earth and her adventures begin when she is chosen to find the artifacts.
The reveals at the end chapters of the book were amazing, couldn't have guessed. The fights and plans were all smoothly written. I'd definitely recommend this book to all sci-fi fans.
Can't wait to see how MC saves the universe in the next part.
Profile Image for Kristi.
77 reviews8 followers
June 30, 2024
Solarborne is a fast-paced, fun, and exciting space adventure (gives off major Star Trek vibes, and I absolutely love it!).

I really enjoyed the premise of this book, the characters, and the writing. The world-building is solid, and I'm hoping the next installment goes even deeper because this concept is so unique and intriguing—I just can't get enough of it!

There were multiple twists, and I did not see them coming. I even had to go back and reread because the second twist took me completely by surprise! Talk about a page-turner.

This may be a short read, but it's action-packed with thrilling space battles, ancient mysteries, strange powers, and secrets galore! It's the perfect blend of adventure and excitement.
Profile Image for Phoebe.
60 reviews12 followers
July 3, 2024
Solarborne
ARC Review
By: Kisa Rayen
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5

This book… It has closed door romance and full of action. In the beginning it’s a slow build. Making sure we are fully introduced to the characters and understanding the terms used. Once the plot begins moving it’s almost impossible to put the book down. This isn’t my first scifi book but it’s a good refresher and shows why I enjoy reading them so much.
Profile Image for kneecolereads.
257 reviews53 followers
June 13, 2024
The only way to counter how awful Earths demise would be is to have an incredibly strong FMC to root for. Aera is one of dozens who are sent to space to start over as the Death wave destroys Earth. There she meets the “Curator” who offers her a ship and a crew to collect mysterious artifacts that are required to save the universe.

The minute I finished the first chapter I knew this would be a wild ride and man was I correct. This had everything I love in a story and it felt like I was on a journey much like the video games Starfield and Cyberpunk offer. This book offers adventure as they navigate dangerous planets/situations to collect the artifacts, closed door romance, and unexpected twists and turns all wrapped in a perfect bow.

Honestly, the whole time I was reading this it felt like I was in a video game and I’m obsessed.

Huge thank you to Kisa Rayen for providing me with this ARC and for including me on your Street Team!
Profile Image for Lazarra Blair.
215 reviews4 followers
July 2, 2024
A epic sci-fi story of Aeras quest to save the universe. This book has everything... A thrilling, tense,fast paced plot that will draw you in and keep you enthralled throughout. Lots of really well worked twists that even I didn't see coming! The characters are all well developed and play a big part in helping you become invested in the storyline... it will have you begging for the next in the series. A must read in my opinion!
Profile Image for Mehdi Fakhrahmad.
Author 4 books22 followers
July 2, 2024
Great sci-fi adventure novel

I enjoyed this read, the plot twist in it without giving anything away with superb and definitely made me feel more connected to the main character and I look forward to the second book of this series!
Profile Image for PrettyLadyMaine Writes.
160 reviews4 followers
June 12, 2024
An ARC read Just like that everything can change in a blink of an eye life as you know it can crash down. Chapter 4 was intense man when family lie to you it hurts you the most. This was a great book I love how you explain everything at the end how to pronounce things and names
Profile Image for Joseph Hallett.
Author 10 books17 followers
September 30, 2024
Gripping page turner

I am an avid scifi reader, and this book had all the right ingredients! Pirates, smugglers, intrigue oh my! This is a great read, and it was something that I was looking forward to. Kisa nails it with a strong female main character in this fast-paced, exciting space adventure!  I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Kisa Rayen.
Author 8 books48 followers
July 3, 2024
Space adventures!

Really enjoyed this. Had a lot of fun and can't wait to do more. Space adventures are one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Abby.
275 reviews8 followers
June 19, 2024
I received an advance copy for free provided by the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I want to start off with the name Aera! It’s very similar to my sister’s name, and so I love it! I am pretty much imagining my sister as the main FMC at this point. She's pretty badass, btw, once you start to read on. The description of the character nearly resembles my sister, so that's kind of funny and ironic to me, only because there are other parts of this story that make it very relatable.

Would you ever accept a mission without even knowing what the full details are? I don’t think I would be able to do that. I would definitely be too afraid to put myself in that situation.

This story gave me Star Trek vibes in the beginning. I love that show, I grew up watching it. The Curator is such a mysterious individual in the book. The Curator's trait is very frustrating because they are so vague when they speak. She gives you enough information to pull you in, but not enough details to assist Aera and her crew. Kisa did a great job providing a character that you can grow frustrated with due to their character flaws, vagueness, and mysteriousness. Kisa also did a great job with the world-building in this story. I think that there definitely could be a little more room for world-building, but for being the short book that it was, it was very good. This is probably because it is all intended to be set up for the second novella. The brewing romance between Aera and Codix was just undeniable. There were several points in the story where I kept questioning this budding romance!

There were just numerous twists and turns! I wasn’t expecting several of them, and it really pulls you in. Aera goes through a transition of emotions, and so did I! Loyalties and integrity toward one another will be challenged. Truly, this is Star Trek and Indiana Jones in space, and I am absolutely enjoying it. The further I read into the story, the more I felt like I was in the “movie” Solarborne, and not a book. This book also reminds me a lot of the show Firefly. I love that show! One of my favorites! I absoutely love that this is set up for the second novella. However, this could also be read as a standalone. This narrative was also a short story to read, and definitely one that you could enjoy in one sitting! I know I surely did, and that’s also because I just didn’t want to put it down. I enjoyed it so much, and I don’t say this often, but it’s almost like I can pick out the celebrities that I’d like to play each character. Don’t ask me, though, I’m old, and I'll give you the names of old actors. I will definitely read the second book when it comes out! I can't wait to see what adventure awaits Captain Aera and her crew.
Profile Image for Nicole (book_drake on IG).
147 reviews
June 25, 2024
🚀✨ Just finished "Solarborne" by Kisa Rayen, and WOW, what a ride! Imagine if Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, and Farscape had a wild cosmic party and invited a badass heroine like Aera Cain. Earth bites the dust, and Aera is suddenly in charge of the Leviathan on a universe-saving mission. No pressure, right?

Our girl Aera is not just surviving, she's THRIVING in space, leading a motley crew on a quest for ancient artifacts. And who gives her this mission? The mysterious Curator. (Cue dramatic music!) This short read is packed with action, space battles, and a sprinkle of ancient mysteries – basically, it's everything a sci-fi lover dreams of.

If you're a fan of epic space adventures and need something fun and quick to dive into, "Solarborne" is your next must-read. Trust me, you’ll be begging for the next installment just like I am! 🌌📚

#BookReview #Solarborne #KisaRayen #SciFiReads #SpaceAdventure #MustRead
Profile Image for Noëmi.
340 reviews16 followers
July 21, 2024
3.5 stars from me

It was a nice read. But some things were just not there yet. Plotholes like:

One day the earth is dying and just about 80 humans can be saved. One of them is our fmc. One second she is in a spaceship and the next she is on a planet, in a bar. No idea how she got there. Or where the other humans are. Did thex survive? What about the spaceship?

Or going to one of the deadliest planets where nobody has ever returned and then puff…nothing happens. Tensions builds a lot but nothing happens.
There are some fights mentioned but not enough. Instead of jumping from one planet to another, it would have been nice to concentrate to a few and have more details on those.

The idea of the solarbornes was interesting though and I would have loved to read more about that. More lore, more history maybe. I heard there will be a second book. So here‘s to hoping that there will be more of that in it
Profile Image for Mary.
121 reviews2 followers
July 4, 2024
ok so I don't normally like space/dystopian type books but this one sounded very interesting so I really wanted to give it a try.

I appreciated that there was a lot of very creative battle scenes and world building and that the concept of the book was different then what I have come across.

However, the beginning of the book starts of being thrown straight into a mission with no too much background as to why. The characters were introduced very abruptly without much introduction, background or descriptions. Then they are immediately on a mission together and "close" when in the beginning it was mentioned that they had just joined as a team. So I was a bit lost. Did a lot of time pass that they became close? or was I to assume that their relationships just developed that quickly?

I think that overall the book was fun and a great start to what can be a great journey.

Profile Image for Kayla.
18 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2024
This was such a fun sci-fi/fantasy read! You follow Aera who escapes Earth's demise and six years later is thrusted into a quest with very little knowledge on how to achieve it. She quickly accepts the quest and captains a small space crew all with varying expertise but the best of what they do! Aera and her crew must race through galaxies to find artifacts that are the only things to save them and the rest of the universe!

I really enjoyed this read and watching Aera really come into her own as she navigates such a huge responsibility and losing all she's ever known. This was fast paced and action packed. The plot twist at the end was such a great twist and I can't wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Lunawolfwy.
224 reviews20 followers
July 30, 2024
I had the wonderful opportunity of reading Solarborne as an ARC reader.

This book had me pulled in from the first page! I loved everything in the story, from the heroes to the villains, love & war, friends, enemies & family, romance, and to the variety of beings from different planets & systems!

Kisa Rayen described the planets & the systems in amazing detail as well. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Jennifer Arriaga.
91 reviews1 follower
April 14, 2025
This was such a refreshing read. This gave me The 100 meets Xenon vibes. When Earth 🌎 dies due to the death wave Aera Cain survives with 89 others who take off into space to find a new planet. 6 years later she is at at Sanctum Eden. She is approached by the "Curator" and given a mission to save the Universe. I truly enjoyed Aera's travels through space while navigating friendships, love, loss & betrayal.
Profile Image for Shawn Brooks.
Author 7 books35 followers
June 15, 2024
I received an ARC copy in exchange for a review and am leaving this review freely.

Solid story. Even though it's set in space, there were a lot of fantasy vibes. And that's a good thing! Magical abilities, universe-ending stakes, a mysterious antagonist, and destiny that the main character Aera has to contend with. This book is a good set-up for more to come!
Profile Image for Micki-D.
1,692 reviews38 followers
July 2, 2024
What a great story
Aera Cain escapes earth just before its destroy killing all those she loves. Now 6 years later she is a space caption on a mission to get artifacts to save her plant or so she has been told. She is a great strong FMC

This a fast paced exciting space adventure full of action, twists, suspense and long lost family.
Profile Image for Alyce Reyes.
Author 3 books2 followers
July 7, 2024
Great read there, with lots of action and adventure type setting, travelling to other galaxies etc. The futuristic tech was well described. The sprinkle of romance added a good touch to the story.

I must say, the twist at the end and the final battle was exciting. For those looking for SciFi with strong FMC, this is the book to go for.
Profile Image for Jessica B.
42 reviews5 followers
January 13, 2025
Loved this!!

This was up my alley and so good! It fully kept my attention the whole time and had some good twist and unexpected turns. Definitely will be sticking around to read the full series.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews