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Through Sky and Stars
In 2763, humanity teeters on the brink of extinction after centuries of war with the alien Sh’keth. Val Koroleva, special forces operative, sacrifices her universe to leap across space and time to avert the disastrous war before it begins.
Eight centuries earlier, the world has yet to tumble into chaos. Bush pilot Nicole Baker, blissfully unaware of the alien threat lurking near her home, lives in peaceful solitude flying her airplane between far-flung corners of remote Alaska until a charming, mysterious stranger turns her world upside down.
Val won’t set her mission aside, but neither woman can ignore their unlikely connection. Can Val risk the future? Will love find a foothold despite a world on the brink of war?
Eight centuries earlier, the world has yet to tumble into chaos. Bush pilot Nicole Baker, blissfully unaware of the alien threat lurking near her home, lives in peaceful solitude flying her airplane between far-flung corners of remote Alaska until a charming, mysterious stranger turns her world upside down.
Val won’t set her mission aside, but neither woman can ignore their unlikely connection. Can Val risk the future? Will love find a foothold despite a world on the brink of war?
264 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2025
5 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 6, 2025
3.5⭐️ 700 years in the future. Val is sent back to earth in 1996, to Seward, Alaska. Her assignment is to locate an insect hive buried deep in the nearby mountains.
These alien Sh‘keth have eradicated all vegetation on earth and most of the humans. A few escaped and have battled these alien Sh‘keth for hundreds of years trying to save humanity.
When Val arrives she meets a local bush pilot, Nicole.
They get off to a rough start with Nicole shooting Val in the butt.
I liked both characters and all of the adventures in Alaska. The sci-fi battles were too long and boring for my taste.
For a debut book, this was well done. I enjoyed the dialogue and emotion s between the characters. Nicole was the real hero of the book.
Thanks to Net Galley and BSB for the opportunity to read and review this book.
These alien Sh‘keth have eradicated all vegetation on earth and most of the humans. A few escaped and have battled these alien Sh‘keth for hundreds of years trying to save humanity.
When Val arrives she meets a local bush pilot, Nicole.
They get off to a rough start with Nicole shooting Val in the butt.
I liked both characters and all of the adventures in Alaska. The sci-fi battles were too long and boring for my taste.
For a debut book, this was well done. I enjoyed the dialogue and emotion s between the characters. Nicole was the real hero of the book.
Thanks to Net Galley and BSB for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 29, 2025
A pilot from the future going back 800 years to save humanity from extinction. Val is the only one who can save their future, and she has about 5 days to do so. No pressure, right?
I really loved the idea of the book and was drawn in by the description, but I struggled with the storyline in spots. First, the issues were mainly resolved by the middle of the book. So for the second half of the book it felt like I needed to drag myself through it.
Another part I struggled with was that Val didn’t explain herself very well to Nicole when they first met, and Nicole pretty much fully trusted her. I personally would’ve thought that Val was an insane woman and would not be allowed in my home.
Nicole was so willing to jump in to help Val with the aliens when she had no clue what she was getting into and still, hardly knew Val but had super strong emotions for her. To be honest I think I just struggled with the timeline of it.
One part that also left me questioning a bit was when Nicole’s friend Jack was able to fix an alien motor with no prior knowledge to anything alien, and with his own tools? I found it a bit confusing.
I really really wanted to like this story, because I am huge on fantasy/alien stuff, but I just couldn’t get myself to love it. The idea of time travel and fighting aliens was so cool, but there really wasn’t much of it.
The relationship between Val and Nicole didn’t have much base to it. I loved the dynamic but there wasn’t much else.
Please note: I received an arc copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you NetGalley and author for a copy!
I really loved the idea of the book and was drawn in by the description, but I struggled with the storyline in spots. First, the issues were mainly resolved by the middle of the book. So for the second half of the book it felt like I needed to drag myself through it.
Another part I struggled with was that Val didn’t explain herself very well to Nicole when they first met, and Nicole pretty much fully trusted her. I personally would’ve thought that Val was an insane woman and would not be allowed in my home.
Nicole was so willing to jump in to help Val with the aliens when she had no clue what she was getting into and still, hardly knew Val but had super strong emotions for her. To be honest I think I just struggled with the timeline of it.
One part that also left me questioning a bit was when Nicole’s friend Jack was able to fix an alien motor with no prior knowledge to anything alien, and with his own tools? I found it a bit confusing.
I really really wanted to like this story, because I am huge on fantasy/alien stuff, but I just couldn’t get myself to love it. The idea of time travel and fighting aliens was so cool, but there really wasn’t much of it.
The relationship between Val and Nicole didn’t have much base to it. I loved the dynamic but there wasn’t much else.
Please note: I received an arc copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you NetGalley and author for a copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2026
I can't believe this is a debut novel! RTF
July 30, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the free eARC.
Giving this 3.5 stars, rounded up mostly to support a lesser-known book/author.
I want to start by emphasizing that I enjoyed reading this book. While it's science fiction (spaceships, aliens, and time travel are involved), this book is primarily a love story between two women. And any time you put sci-fi and sapphics together, you know I'm going to have a good time.
I like the setup - a soldier travels back in time to prevent centuries of war, and ends up falling in love along the way - even though it's probably been done before. I like the twist resolution, even if it's not too hard to see it coming. I like the main characters, and was rooting for them to have a happy ending. I like the writing style, even if it's a bit cheesy at times, but it's a romance so I can live with that.
The problem is that everything feels rushed. And this is largely due to the in-universe deadline that the soldier MC is given to complete her mission. It's only 5 days. That's an insanely short amount of time to travel back in time, adjust to your surroundings, make a plan, and then execute it successfully. It's also an insanely short amount of time to fall in love with someone enough that their very presence will change the way you accomplish your mission. But that's what happens.
We needed more time to sit with the main characters, to learn about their backstories and worldviews, to watch them get to know each other. As it is, it feels a little too close to insta-love. And while I like Val and Nicole together, I feel like they barely knew each other. If the mission deadline had been, say, 10 days or 2 weeks, or even longer, there would still have been pressure on Val, but we would have had more of an opportunity to see this relationship develop.
Overall, there are some great ideas and characters here, but the pacing isn't as strong as I'd like. I'd still recommend this to anyone who's a fan of sci-fi/time travel romances, especially with sapphics. There's definite room for improvement, but it's still an enjoyable read.
Giving this 3.5 stars, rounded up mostly to support a lesser-known book/author.
I want to start by emphasizing that I enjoyed reading this book. While it's science fiction (spaceships, aliens, and time travel are involved), this book is primarily a love story between two women. And any time you put sci-fi and sapphics together, you know I'm going to have a good time.
I like the setup - a soldier travels back in time to prevent centuries of war, and ends up falling in love along the way - even though it's probably been done before. I like the twist resolution, even if it's not too hard to see it coming. I like the main characters, and was rooting for them to have a happy ending. I like the writing style, even if it's a bit cheesy at times, but it's a romance so I can live with that.
The problem is that everything feels rushed. And this is largely due to the in-universe deadline that the soldier MC is given to complete her mission. It's only 5 days. That's an insanely short amount of time to travel back in time, adjust to your surroundings, make a plan, and then execute it successfully. It's also an insanely short amount of time to fall in love with someone enough that their very presence will change the way you accomplish your mission. But that's what happens.
We needed more time to sit with the main characters, to learn about their backstories and worldviews, to watch them get to know each other. As it is, it feels a little too close to insta-love. And while I like Val and Nicole together, I feel like they barely knew each other. If the mission deadline had been, say, 10 days or 2 weeks, or even longer, there would still have been pressure on Val, but we would have had more of an opportunity to see this relationship develop.
Overall, there are some great ideas and characters here, but the pacing isn't as strong as I'd like. I'd still recommend this to anyone who's a fan of sci-fi/time travel romances, especially with sapphics. There's definite room for improvement, but it's still an enjoyable read.
July 28, 2025
When I found a book that combined all my favourites, I was so excited: sapphic bad ass MC’s, sci-fi and time travel. I so hoped that combination would work, and I was so happy when the book even exceeded my expectations.
It was amazing to read about how the badass Val travels back in time to save humanity from being extincted by giant bugs. The romance with the amazing emphatic bush pilot Nicole, such a key person for the outcome of the story, is making the book even better. Add the beauty of Alaskan nature, a lot of cocoa and pop tarts and both Val and I were sold.
The book could have been even better with a little more action, more details on life in the 28th century since I am curious about that. Let’s hope the author is planning more books, perhaps with Kass, Val’s best friend, in the lead, that would be so amazing.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave a review voluntarily.
It was amazing to read about how the badass Val travels back in time to save humanity from being extincted by giant bugs. The romance with the amazing emphatic bush pilot Nicole, such a key person for the outcome of the story, is making the book even better. Add the beauty of Alaskan nature, a lot of cocoa and pop tarts and both Val and I were sold.
The book could have been even better with a little more action, more details on life in the 28th century since I am curious about that. Let’s hope the author is planning more books, perhaps with Kass, Val’s best friend, in the lead, that would be so amazing.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave a review voluntarily.
July 28, 2025
This story starts 700 years in the future. Earth as we know it no longer exists and humanity is about to be destroyed. A distant civilization has come up with a time machine and Val is going back to try and stop the slugs that destroyed earth.
Once she lands she meets Nicole an Alaskan pilot.
Val only has a few days some time is important. She knows where the hive is that holds the slugs and her mission is to destroy it but things aren’t always as they seem.
Nicole will not let her go alone after Val told her who she is.
But what will happen after the mission? Will Val jump back to her own time?
This is an amazing story and I highly recommend it. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.
Once she lands she meets Nicole an Alaskan pilot.
Val only has a few days some time is important. She knows where the hive is that holds the slugs and her mission is to destroy it but things aren’t always as they seem.
Nicole will not let her go alone after Val told her who she is.
But what will happen after the mission? Will Val jump back to her own time?
This is an amazing story and I highly recommend it. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.
August 20, 2025
Excellent
Val was an interesting character. First thought she was selfish but that truly was not correct. Her association with Nicole changed everything for all. The ability to see the other's needs changed the world. Not enough of that in this world today. Great writing. There was 1 error in the book though, I don't expect that from Bold Strokes Books.
Val was an interesting character. First thought she was selfish but that truly was not correct. Her association with Nicole changed everything for all. The ability to see the other's needs changed the world. Not enough of that in this world today. Great writing. There was 1 error in the book though, I don't expect that from Bold Strokes Books.
August 14, 2025
Very interesting book
This book has it all for the science fiction reader. Aliens at war, time travel and a love story. This book kept my interest from beginning to end. This is the first book I've read by this author. Waiting for her next book. Thanks
This book has it all for the science fiction reader. Aliens at war, time travel and a love story. This book kept my interest from beginning to end. This is the first book I've read by this author. Waiting for her next book. Thanks
July 13, 2025
Such a cute and fun read! Rom Com meets Sci Fi, I laughed, rolled my eyes, and enjoyed escaping into a different time and place 🤩
WARNING it might leave you craving Pop Tarts! 😋
WARNING it might leave you craving Pop Tarts! 😋
August 31, 2025
A hopeful and fast-paced adventure and love story, filled with time travel, Pop Tarts, and a love of flying through the Alaska wilderness.
November 8, 2025
I'm not a scifi fan but I'm a slow burn romance fan and that's why I picked up this novel. A soldier from the future travels back in time for the "small" task of saving humanity. She falls in love with a pilot.
The romance is beautifully written and the women have such a deep connection. I really enjoyed this story. Maybe I'll read more scifi in the future!
The romance is beautifully written and the women have such a deep connection. I really enjoyed this story. Maybe I'll read more scifi in the future!
August 11, 2025
A special thank you to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Book and author Tessa Croft for this ARC. I’m happily sharing my honest review.
I will start by saying that I generally am not an avid reader of books that are of the science fiction or fantasy variety even with the wlw component. However, the cover of this book was really lovely and hooked me. Upon reading the blurb, I found myself further enticed. I’m so glad that the beautiful cover captured my attention because this was a really good and enjoyable read.
To me, this book felt like more of a sweet wlw romance with time travel and aliens blended in rather than focusing entirely on the science fiction aspect..:and I loved that! Who knew I’d be a sucker for a time travel sapphic romance? But I most certainly am a sucker for this one. Strong, brave and smokin hot special forces soldier, Val, travels centuries back in time to save the earth and humanity. She is a woman on a mission, arguably the most important mission there is, saving the human race from extinction. Her strength and courage are rivaled only by her determination and grit. She expects her mission to be difficult. dangerous and life threatening. What she doesn’t expect is to meet the most incredible woman she’s ever known, bush pilot Nicole.
Nicole is a badass in her own right. She lives a rather solitary life and spends her days flying from one rural locale to another, all over Alaska. Her life is simple and peaceful and she really never fathoms the possibility of helping an extraordinary woman fight against aliens to save humanity. But, she does so willingly and is quite instrumental indeed.
The entire book is paced well and a lot happens in a really short time. Val only has days to complete her mission. Val becomes quite enamored with the breathtaking beauty of earth. Nicole shows her how wonderful simple pleasures can be. The chemistry between them is palpable and so fun to read. It’s kind of crazy to me that you can fall in love in less than a week but Val & Nicole made me a believer.
Nicole represents more than just a love interest for Val, she is the embodiment of what she is fighting for. Val travels back in time to save humanity from Aliens. And what is humanity without joy, simple pleasures, happiness and love? What, after all, is she fighting to save?! Ah it really is a heartening read. The writing is deep and flows so easily. The author does a wonderful job of capturing Alaska’s serenity and beauty. Val and Nicole were both written with such care to detail. They are wonderfully complex women who truly deserve each other in the very best of ways.
As someone who doesn’t usually read much from the sci-fi genre, I worried I might be bored, confused or even overwhelmed. Nope! The time travel, alien fighting, world saving badassery was on point. It was a fun and engaging plot for really sweet and beautiful love story. Val and Nicole’s connection, despite happening so quickly, didn’t feel rushed to me. It had none of the negative connotation of insta love even though they fell for each other so fast. What they found in one another felt real. I found myself wearing a big smile while reading this and was really sad to turn (swipe) to the last page. I was grateful for a happy ending for our girls & really hope for a sequel because I’d love to see more of Val and Nicole. I most definitely recommend this and plan to look for more from Tessa Croft.
I will start by saying that I generally am not an avid reader of books that are of the science fiction or fantasy variety even with the wlw component. However, the cover of this book was really lovely and hooked me. Upon reading the blurb, I found myself further enticed. I’m so glad that the beautiful cover captured my attention because this was a really good and enjoyable read.
To me, this book felt like more of a sweet wlw romance with time travel and aliens blended in rather than focusing entirely on the science fiction aspect..:and I loved that! Who knew I’d be a sucker for a time travel sapphic romance? But I most certainly am a sucker for this one. Strong, brave and smokin hot special forces soldier, Val, travels centuries back in time to save the earth and humanity. She is a woman on a mission, arguably the most important mission there is, saving the human race from extinction. Her strength and courage are rivaled only by her determination and grit. She expects her mission to be difficult. dangerous and life threatening. What she doesn’t expect is to meet the most incredible woman she’s ever known, bush pilot Nicole.
Nicole is a badass in her own right. She lives a rather solitary life and spends her days flying from one rural locale to another, all over Alaska. Her life is simple and peaceful and she really never fathoms the possibility of helping an extraordinary woman fight against aliens to save humanity. But, she does so willingly and is quite instrumental indeed.
The entire book is paced well and a lot happens in a really short time. Val only has days to complete her mission. Val becomes quite enamored with the breathtaking beauty of earth. Nicole shows her how wonderful simple pleasures can be. The chemistry between them is palpable and so fun to read. It’s kind of crazy to me that you can fall in love in less than a week but Val & Nicole made me a believer.
Nicole represents more than just a love interest for Val, she is the embodiment of what she is fighting for. Val travels back in time to save humanity from Aliens. And what is humanity without joy, simple pleasures, happiness and love? What, after all, is she fighting to save?! Ah it really is a heartening read. The writing is deep and flows so easily. The author does a wonderful job of capturing Alaska’s serenity and beauty. Val and Nicole were both written with such care to detail. They are wonderfully complex women who truly deserve each other in the very best of ways.
As someone who doesn’t usually read much from the sci-fi genre, I worried I might be bored, confused or even overwhelmed. Nope! The time travel, alien fighting, world saving badassery was on point. It was a fun and engaging plot for really sweet and beautiful love story. Val and Nicole’s connection, despite happening so quickly, didn’t feel rushed to me. It had none of the negative connotation of insta love even though they fell for each other so fast. What they found in one another felt real. I found myself wearing a big smile while reading this and was really sad to turn (swipe) to the last page. I was grateful for a happy ending for our girls & really hope for a sequel because I’d love to see more of Val and Nicole. I most definitely recommend this and plan to look for more from Tessa Croft.
July 23, 2025
I was drawn to this book by its description, which gave Recursion vibes, and its seemingly incompatible cover, which screamed Amelia Earhart.
Through Sky and Stars delivers a character-driven contemporary romance with sci-fi elements pushing the plot. Val's Post Disapora world reminded me of Starship Troopers (that giant insect war movie that I had rewatched too many times growing up).
Val was sent back in time to destroy the first colony of the alien Sh'keth. Vivid scenes of the Alaskan landscape seen from Val's eyes serve as a reminder of Earth's beauty. Nicole is a kickass but lonely bush pilot living in that dreamy cozy cabin with a library of books. Val is introduced to the beauty of Earth - the luxury of paperback books, Pop Tarts, and hot cocoa - and falls, for the planet, for the 'primitive' aircraft, and of course, for Nicole. And I LOL'ed at the first meet-cute moment; the one between Val and Beav 😏.
I'm no pilot, but the author is, and she sure delivered some details during flight scenes. (Though most of it went over my head.) And after reading this, experiencing an Alaska bush plane tour is now an item on my bucket list.
That said, as a visual reader, I thoroughly enjoyed the writing. It was vivid, not just visually. I could hear some scenes in my head, too.
While there were bits where the pace dipped a little (and provided reprieve), the story was generally well-paced. And I found myself drawn in.
After reading the book, the cover feels more compatible. Most of the story takes place in modern day.
The book is 5-star, but it isn't perfect. Time travel and sci-fi take a back seat until the plot needs to move, which feels like a waste. The resolution felt a little too naive, too easy. It felt like the gravity of intergalactic war that had spanned decades was brushed off like a squabble at the playground. But this is a romance novel after all, so...🤷♀️. Though I did wish Kass was given more "screentime".
Overall, Through Sky and Stars was an enjoyable read and one that I look forward to re-reading once it's published. I look forward to future works from the author as well.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC!
Through Sky and Stars delivers a character-driven contemporary romance with sci-fi elements pushing the plot. Val's Post Disapora world reminded me of Starship Troopers (that giant insect war movie that I had rewatched too many times growing up).
Val was sent back in time to destroy the first colony of the alien Sh'keth. Vivid scenes of the Alaskan landscape seen from Val's eyes serve as a reminder of Earth's beauty. Nicole is a kickass but lonely bush pilot living in that dreamy cozy cabin with a library of books. Val is introduced to the beauty of Earth - the luxury of paperback books, Pop Tarts, and hot cocoa - and falls, for the planet, for the 'primitive' aircraft, and of course, for Nicole. And I LOL'ed at the first meet-cute moment; the one between Val and Beav 😏.
I'm no pilot, but the author is, and she sure delivered some details during flight scenes. (Though most of it went over my head.) And after reading this, experiencing an Alaska bush plane tour is now an item on my bucket list.
That said, as a visual reader, I thoroughly enjoyed the writing. It was vivid, not just visually. I could hear some scenes in my head, too.
While there were bits where the pace dipped a little (and provided reprieve), the story was generally well-paced. And I found myself drawn in.
After reading the book, the cover feels more compatible. Most of the story takes place in modern day.
The book is 5-star, but it isn't perfect. Time travel and sci-fi take a back seat until the plot needs to move, which feels like a waste. The resolution felt a little too naive, too easy. It felt like the gravity of intergalactic war that had spanned decades was brushed off like a squabble at the playground. But this is a romance novel after all, so...🤷♀️. Though I did wish Kass was given more "screentime".
Overall, Through Sky and Stars was an enjoyable read and one that I look forward to re-reading once it's published. I look forward to future works from the author as well.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC!
July 24, 2025
This is So. Freakin. Good.
I picked this up thinking it was a fun, little sapphic romance with a bit about planes and other stuff I thought was cool but knew nothing about.
It is so much more than that.
I am BLOWN AWAY. The writing is better than the NY Times bestselling author’s newest book this librarian just read. If anyone is listening, Tessa Croft needs a 5-book deal. And a spot on that list.
I am not a Sci-Fi fan. I dabble in the Whoniverse occasionally and time travel has always interested me, but I don’t tend to add much science fiction to my TBR. All respect to Tolkien, the worldbuilding is usually just too much. I want to get to know the people: their hopes and dreams, their relationships, the way they love. Tessa Croft gave me ALL of that. And built a pretty amazing world while she was at it. Alaska came ALIVE to me as I read this. I could imagine flying across its lush landscape in the right seat of Nicole’s beloved Beav, drinking in all that Alaska has to offer. I could imagine sliding across the unforgiving ice and cracking jokes as I sipped Jackie’s cocoa. I felt like I was THERE, you know?
Val and Nicole are fully formed and fascinating characters. I was shipping and rooting for them from the beginning. Flawed but inherently good, brave, smart, and capable - these are the kind of protagonists I want to read about. They were REAL. And their relationship was nuanced and perfect.
All the futuristic aspects of the book were inherently nerdy, but completely believable, even for a neophyte like me.
I hope there is a second installment. I want to see Val and Nicole partner up to save other worlds! And I wouldn’t mind stopping in to check on Kass, either. 😉 More, please!
I picked this up thinking it was a fun, little sapphic romance with a bit about planes and other stuff I thought was cool but knew nothing about.
It is so much more than that.
I am BLOWN AWAY. The writing is better than the NY Times bestselling author’s newest book this librarian just read. If anyone is listening, Tessa Croft needs a 5-book deal. And a spot on that list.
I am not a Sci-Fi fan. I dabble in the Whoniverse occasionally and time travel has always interested me, but I don’t tend to add much science fiction to my TBR. All respect to Tolkien, the worldbuilding is usually just too much. I want to get to know the people: their hopes and dreams, their relationships, the way they love. Tessa Croft gave me ALL of that. And built a pretty amazing world while she was at it. Alaska came ALIVE to me as I read this. I could imagine flying across its lush landscape in the right seat of Nicole’s beloved Beav, drinking in all that Alaska has to offer. I could imagine sliding across the unforgiving ice and cracking jokes as I sipped Jackie’s cocoa. I felt like I was THERE, you know?
Val and Nicole are fully formed and fascinating characters. I was shipping and rooting for them from the beginning. Flawed but inherently good, brave, smart, and capable - these are the kind of protagonists I want to read about. They were REAL. And their relationship was nuanced and perfect.
All the futuristic aspects of the book were inherently nerdy, but completely believable, even for a neophyte like me.
I hope there is a second installment. I want to see Val and Nicole partner up to save other worlds! And I wouldn’t mind stopping in to check on Kass, either. 😉 More, please!
October 15, 2025
Through Sky and Stars was a really interesting dual timeline, time travel, save-the-world, sci-fi sapphic romance. Val, a forces soldier in the year 2763, is sent on a special mission: travel more than 750 years into the past, to 1996 Alaska, for a last-ditch attempt to save the human species from the formidable alien species they've been at war with for centuries. She has less than a week to complete her mission, and she has only a vague idea of how to complete it, but she knows that she's the only one who can. So...like...no pressure or anything.
Val leaves behind her entire world and everyone she knows, crash landing in Seward, Alaska. There she comes across Nicole, a local bush pilot. They have an interesting encounter that ultimately leads to Nicole accidentally shooting Val in the tush. Oops! The two spend the next few days healing, bonding, and feeling, which makes up the majority of the first half of the book.
Now, I've seen some reviews that say things like, "the mission was complete halfway through!" And I mean, yes...but was it really? The mission results in some unexpected things that carry us through the rest of the book, and in my opinion, it made for a really interesting story—far more so than if the entire book had been the one mission. It also gave us time to get to know some of the other Sewards residents, which was great, and allowed for a more well-rounded feeling. I give this one 4.5 stars, rounded up.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
Val leaves behind her entire world and everyone she knows, crash landing in Seward, Alaska. There she comes across Nicole, a local bush pilot. They have an interesting encounter that ultimately leads to Nicole accidentally shooting Val in the tush. Oops! The two spend the next few days healing, bonding, and feeling, which makes up the majority of the first half of the book.
Now, I've seen some reviews that say things like, "the mission was complete halfway through!" And I mean, yes...but was it really? The mission results in some unexpected things that carry us through the rest of the book, and in my opinion, it made for a really interesting story—far more so than if the entire book had been the one mission. It also gave us time to get to know some of the other Sewards residents, which was great, and allowed for a more well-rounded feeling. I give this one 4.5 stars, rounded up.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
August 8, 2025
Val Koroleva, is an elite special forces soldier from over 750 years in the future. The humans are losing the centuries long war with the alien Sh’keth. Val is being sent back to Alaska in 1996, when the aliens were first on earth to change history with the hope of changing the future. There she stumbles on to Nicole Baker, a bush pilot, who lives in the wilderness near Seward. The pair of course get off to a rocky start but things quickly change.
The pace is intentionally fast. There is a time deadline of only five days to complete the mission. The characters are both likable and capable. And I like the remote setting of Alaska as that seemed more realistic for aliens to be undetected. Val is fun as she is awed by paperbacks, cocoa and Pop Tarts. Most of the story takes place in 1996 so there isn’t a lot of description of the future. Nicole is just as much a heroine in the story. Time travel is tricky, but the author helps it make sense without getting into the technology of it all.
I really enjoyed the book. It doesn’t get bogged down with lots of details, focusing on the two women and the mission. If best friend Kass gets her own book I would read it. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
The pace is intentionally fast. There is a time deadline of only five days to complete the mission. The characters are both likable and capable. And I like the remote setting of Alaska as that seemed more realistic for aliens to be undetected. Val is fun as she is awed by paperbacks, cocoa and Pop Tarts. Most of the story takes place in 1996 so there isn’t a lot of description of the future. Nicole is just as much a heroine in the story. Time travel is tricky, but the author helps it make sense without getting into the technology of it all.
I really enjoyed the book. It doesn’t get bogged down with lots of details, focusing on the two women and the mission. If best friend Kass gets her own book I would read it. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
August 9, 2025
At first I thought I was in the sapphic remake of Aliens or Starship Troopers, desperately fighting the bugs. Then Terminator, sending a lone warrior back through time to fix the problem before it starts. But then, it flipped the script completely, and was that much better for it!
I loved the flying scenes, the die-hard independent Alaskan characters, the direction that the present-day scenes took, the tense invasion of the bug lair, the Pop Tarts, the way time travel wasn’t a one-time gimmick but came back into the story later on, and the way Val has to fight for her future in two different ways in two different places (times). There were funny parts and sweet parts and tense parts and it just really covered it all.
In some sense, I wouldn’t have minded a bit more of the bug hunt before everything changed (I do adore those movies, after all). But also, I wouldn’t have minded more time with Val and Nicole in the present day. So I guess the conclusion there is that it struck a great balance.
All in all, a new sci-fi favorite. I was really impressed!
Discussion with Maria: https://www.instagram.com/p/DM7st3JOlrx/
I loved the flying scenes, the die-hard independent Alaskan characters, the direction that the present-day scenes took, the tense invasion of the bug lair, the Pop Tarts, the way time travel wasn’t a one-time gimmick but came back into the story later on, and the way Val has to fight for her future in two different ways in two different places (times). There were funny parts and sweet parts and tense parts and it just really covered it all.
In some sense, I wouldn’t have minded a bit more of the bug hunt before everything changed (I do adore those movies, after all). But also, I wouldn’t have minded more time with Val and Nicole in the present day. So I guess the conclusion there is that it struck a great balance.
All in all, a new sci-fi favorite. I was really impressed!
Discussion with Maria: https://www.instagram.com/p/DM7st3JOlrx/
August 8, 2025
700 years in the future. Val is sent back to earth in 1996, to Seward, Alaska. Her assignment is to locate an insect hive buried deep in the nearby mountains. The aliens Sh‘keth have eradicated all vegetation on earth and most of the humans. A few escaped have battled against the Sh‘keth for hundreds of years trying to save humanity and still are.
When Val arrives she meets a local bush pilot, Nicole. They get off to a rough start with Nicole shooting Val in the butt. I liked both characters and all of the adventures in Alaska. The sci-fi battles were too drug out though and could have been shorter.
For a debut book, this was decently well done. I enjoyed the sci fi aspect, but I liked Nicole better than Val and not just because that's my wife's name. She was the hero.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Val arrives she meets a local bush pilot, Nicole. They get off to a rough start with Nicole shooting Val in the butt. I liked both characters and all of the adventures in Alaska. The sci-fi battles were too drug out though and could have been shorter.
For a debut book, this was decently well done. I enjoyed the sci fi aspect, but I liked Nicole better than Val and not just because that's my wife's name. She was the hero.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2025
It’s been ages since I read any sci-fi, and I’m so glad I picked this one up. Through Sky and Stars is beautifully written, emotional, vivid, and hopeful.
I loved the mix of elements here: a sapphic lead, time travel, and a slow-burn romance that actually works. Val, a soldier from the 28th century, jumps back in time to stop humanity from being wiped out by the alien Sh'keth and ends up meeting Nicole, a bush pilot living a quiet life in Alaska. Their connection is beautiful and real, with a mix of awe and longing. The author does such a good job of showing Val rediscovering the beauty of Earth — books, hot cocoa, Pop Tarts, and flying over the Alaskan wilderness.
It is an enjoyable, heartfelt story, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more books from this author.
I loved the mix of elements here: a sapphic lead, time travel, and a slow-burn romance that actually works. Val, a soldier from the 28th century, jumps back in time to stop humanity from being wiped out by the alien Sh'keth and ends up meeting Nicole, a bush pilot living a quiet life in Alaska. Their connection is beautiful and real, with a mix of awe and longing. The author does such a good job of showing Val rediscovering the beauty of Earth — books, hot cocoa, Pop Tarts, and flying over the Alaskan wilderness.
It is an enjoyable, heartfelt story, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more books from this author.
July 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this unsual adventure. I laughed out loud a few times and got pretty invested in the characters. If you like planes and space, and bad ass women this is a great read. The author is obviously passionate about aircraft and flying, and space too - that passion is baked into every page. It's a quick read but a fun escape with some really interesting twists in turns. I was a little sad when I was done reading that there wasn't more! Hoping there's another book.
August 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! I was hooked from the start and did not want it to end. It was a wonderful combination of my favorite tropes: aliens, time travel, and saving the world. With a little first contact thrown in for good measure. Enjoyed the relationship between MCs. The only thing that I did not like was that I finished the story. Now what will I read?
August 22, 2025
Thanks to the publisher Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
A sweet sapphic time travel romance? Yes Please! This is fast paced and well written. There's action (I could've gone for a touch more) but for a debut Tessa came in with a bang and I can't wait to see what comes next!
A sweet sapphic time travel romance? Yes Please! This is fast paced and well written. There's action (I could've gone for a touch more) but for a debut Tessa came in with a bang and I can't wait to see what comes next!
August 27, 2025
I was torn between 3 or 4 stars on this- it was a fun story, I really liked the main characters (especially Val- she felt well developed to me). Ultimately I chose 3 because the ending felt rushed and I also wish it wasn’t closed door.
September 30, 2025
Loved it!
October 20, 2025
This story does an excellent job of weaving a fictional sci-fi world into present day. I was rooting for both main characters Val and Nicole and loved the vivid descriptions of flying and Alaska.
November 4, 2025
Thank you to the author and Bold Strokes for providing me with a copy of
Through Sky and Stars!
As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
3.75 stars rounded up
✨ Sapphic Speculative Fiction/Romance
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 1.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Standalone
✨ Rep: PTSD, masc MC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Time travel
- Gears of War vibes
- Adult MCs
- Aviation
- Fast paced reads
Content warnings after review.
Initial Thoughts
This book diverges from what I’ve typically been reading lately, which I think is a good thing! Right off the bat, I’m getting Gears of War vibes, so I’m loving that so far (I’ve played all the video games).
Plot
I love the Alaska setting, and even though there is a time travel aspect it isn’t overly confusing. The chapters are on the shorter side, and the book isn’t very long making for a quick, engaging read. There were a couple parts that didn’t feel like they were drawn out enough making it seem too “easy”. The stakes didn’t feel as high, and the romance is a main part of the plot giving the book a bit of a cozier feel despite the main character, Val, being on a mission to literally save humanity.
Characters
I really liked that the main characters weren’t too young, with Val being 32 years old. I found the characters likable, and I like how knowledgeable and competent both women were in their fields. Definitely a huge fan of strong female characters.
Romance
I thought the romance was really sweet overall. I do think maybe the feelings were a bit… not exactly rushed, but I think more context around their first meeting might have helped things feel more organic. I was definitely rooting for them. Be aware that Val is in a friends with benefits type situation at the beginning with another woman. The foreplay is pretty descriptive, but the actual spice is fade-to-black hence the 1.5 out of 5 spice rating.
World-building
I would have loved to see more of the world/timeline Val originated from! There was enough in the context of the story, but I’m a huge sci-fi lover and would have loved more. I’d love a book with Kass at the main character for this reason.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this was an enjoyable debut! It was an easy read that I didn’t want to put down. I’m hoping for another book set in the same universe… Worth the read, and particularly great for summer!
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
near death experience, guns, non-fatal shooting, s*x as a coping mechanism, PTSD, s*xual content, violence
3.75 stars rounded up
✨ Sapphic Speculative Fiction/Romance
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 1.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Standalone
✨ Rep: PTSD, masc MC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Time travel
- Gears of War vibes
- Adult MCs
- Aviation
- Fast paced reads
Content warnings after review.
Initial Thoughts
This book diverges from what I’ve typically been reading lately, which I think is a good thing! Right off the bat, I’m getting Gears of War vibes, so I’m loving that so far (I’ve played all the video games).
Plot
I love the Alaska setting, and even though there is a time travel aspect it isn’t overly confusing. The chapters are on the shorter side, and the book isn’t very long making for a quick, engaging read. There were a couple parts that didn’t feel like they were drawn out enough making it seem too “easy”. The stakes didn’t feel as high, and the romance is a main part of the plot giving the book a bit of a cozier feel despite the main character, Val, being on a mission to literally save humanity.
Characters
I really liked that the main characters weren’t too young, with Val being 32 years old. I found the characters likable, and I like how knowledgeable and competent both women were in their fields. Definitely a huge fan of strong female characters.
Romance
I thought the romance was really sweet overall. I do think maybe the feelings were a bit… not exactly rushed, but I think more context around their first meeting might have helped things feel more organic. I was definitely rooting for them. Be aware that Val is in a friends with benefits type situation at the beginning with another woman. The foreplay is pretty descriptive, but the actual spice is fade-to-black hence the 1.5 out of 5 spice rating.
World-building
I would have loved to see more of the world/timeline Val originated from! There was enough in the context of the story, but I’m a huge sci-fi lover and would have loved more. I’d love a book with Kass at the main character for this reason.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this was an enjoyable debut! It was an easy read that I didn’t want to put down. I’m hoping for another book set in the same universe… Worth the read, and particularly great for summer!
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
near death experience, guns, non-fatal shooting, s*x as a coping mechanism, PTSD, s*xual content, violence
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