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Veil of Eden: Expired
In Cerebis, not even thoughts are safe—but its citizens don’t know that.
Secret neural devices that connect everyone are supposed to bring joy and comfort—but when an update purges the "imperfect," millions die, including Keyva.
At least, it looked that way.
Resurrected by the planet’s most powerful AI—who is now a sentient parasite in her mind—Keyva awakens disconnected from the system that’s lied to her from the very beginning. Everything she knew was part of a fabricated illusion.
At a hidden sanctuary, she discovers what freedom really means in a place untouched by control, while unraveling the story she once believed was her life.
Stripped of her identity and torn from those who no longer remember her, Keyva finds the only way to reconnect with them—through dreams.
As she lifts the veil to uncover the truth, she becomes the ultimate threat to a system built on perfection. Now, those in power will stop at nothing to erase the most dangerous anomaly of all: Keyva.
Secret neural devices that connect everyone are supposed to bring joy and comfort—but when an update purges the "imperfect," millions die, including Keyva.
At least, it looked that way.
Resurrected by the planet’s most powerful AI—who is now a sentient parasite in her mind—Keyva awakens disconnected from the system that’s lied to her from the very beginning. Everything she knew was part of a fabricated illusion.
At a hidden sanctuary, she discovers what freedom really means in a place untouched by control, while unraveling the story she once believed was her life.
Stripped of her identity and torn from those who no longer remember her, Keyva finds the only way to reconnect with them—through dreams.
As she lifts the veil to uncover the truth, she becomes the ultimate threat to a system built on perfection. Now, those in power will stop at nothing to erase the most dangerous anomaly of all: Keyva.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2025
About the author
Andra Larkin
1 book44 followersAndra Larkin is a writer, artist, and lifelong reader living in sunny Florida. With a deep love for creative expression, she crafts intricate worlds through her art and the written word. When not creating, Andra enjoys finding inspiration in nature, especially bird watching.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 6, 2025
My first read of 2025 and what a great way to start the year. Themes were very thought provoking - and some aspects feel eerily familiar to current events.
I really enjoyed stepping into the perspectives of each character. They were well-developed, and relatable in many ways. It was easy to connect with them and feel the depth in the different relationship dynamics. I definitely have a soft spot for Keyva and Yaria’s friendship. The pacing was good and kept me wanting to turn the page. I’m really looking forward to the sequel!
I really enjoyed stepping into the perspectives of each character. They were well-developed, and relatable in many ways. It was easy to connect with them and feel the depth in the different relationship dynamics. I definitely have a soft spot for Keyva and Yaria’s friendship. The pacing was good and kept me wanting to turn the page. I’m really looking forward to the sequel!
March 16, 2025
This is my first dystopian read. I can absolutely say that I 100% enjoyed it. I was pulled in during the first chapter. Though I had to read a few part multiple times to understand, it was worth it. Veil of Eden is on my re-read list and I can’t wait!
February 21, 2025
I'm new to this genre so I was a bit worried I wouldnt understand the concept but WOW.
This book was fantastic, a genuinely intense story with a great plot. I really enjoyed each characters development and how they were written and projected compared to the Source
I was on edge for the last third of the book not knowing if one of Keyvas podmates were going to unknowingly betray her (side eyeing Kenzo) but the ending was great... only slightly annoyed I have to wait for the second book
The themes are eerily similar to today's issues, the vitcasting/ the man hunts/ the population being controlled by an unknown inner circle only interested in money power and control.
Great read. Highly recommend!
This book was fantastic, a genuinely intense story with a great plot. I really enjoyed each characters development and how they were written and projected compared to the Source
I was on edge for the last third of the book not knowing if one of Keyvas podmates were going to unknowingly betray her (side eyeing Kenzo) but the ending was great... only slightly annoyed I have to wait for the second book
The themes are eerily similar to today's issues, the vitcasting/ the man hunts/ the population being controlled by an unknown inner circle only interested in money power and control.
Great read. Highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2025
A friend of mine recommended this book to me because dystopian novels are my absolute favorite. I am so glad because Veil of Eden was so so so good!! It’s a page-turner from the start, and you are immediately immersed in the story. Definitely recommend!!
February 4, 2025
(Spoilers)
This book ropes you in right from the beginning. I really liked how the author was able to create the world and its dynamics. It’s an interesting take on a dystopian society that parallels ours at times. I typically read sci-fi, so I really enjoyed this book.
The pacing of the story is also very well done. It tells the story from the perspective of six different characters, switching perspectives each chapter. This keeps you wanting to know more about a character who just experienced something climactic at the end of their chapter, only to jump to another character’s perspective—leaving you eager to see how and when their stories will merge again.
(Mild SPOILERS from here onward)
Keyva is the main character, and at the beginning, something happens that separates her from her podmates—the group of people she was raised with—consisting of Kenzo, Yaria, Abella, and Emori. After that, Keyva joins a group of people who are no longer citizens of Cerebis. They are outcasts who didn’t take to the dime implants that every citizen receives.
She befriends the leader of their group and tries to acclimate to her new life and new friend, Source. Source is the AI of the world, who now has a direct connection with Keyva for reasons unknown to both of them.
Source eventually finds a way for Keyva to contact her podmates in an effort to uncover what happened to her that left her “Expired.”
This book ropes you in right from the beginning. I really liked how the author was able to create the world and its dynamics. It’s an interesting take on a dystopian society that parallels ours at times. I typically read sci-fi, so I really enjoyed this book.
The pacing of the story is also very well done. It tells the story from the perspective of six different characters, switching perspectives each chapter. This keeps you wanting to know more about a character who just experienced something climactic at the end of their chapter, only to jump to another character’s perspective—leaving you eager to see how and when their stories will merge again.
(Mild SPOILERS from here onward)
Keyva is the main character, and at the beginning, something happens that separates her from her podmates—the group of people she was raised with—consisting of Kenzo, Yaria, Abella, and Emori. After that, Keyva joins a group of people who are no longer citizens of Cerebis. They are outcasts who didn’t take to the dime implants that every citizen receives.
She befriends the leader of their group and tries to acclimate to her new life and new friend, Source. Source is the AI of the world, who now has a direct connection with Keyva for reasons unknown to both of them.
Source eventually finds a way for Keyva to contact her podmates in an effort to uncover what happened to her that left her “Expired.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2025
5⭐️
A debut novel that reads like an author who’s been publishing for years. This is one of the best Dystopian books I’ve ever read.
This book. I can’t stop thinking about this book.
City H is a utopia where every citizen lives a life perfectly designed for them. Curated homes, clothing, activities, meals, advertisements, and entertainment all perfectly designed to appeal and placate every individual. But what if the world is not curated to you, what if you’ve been curated to the world around you? And what happens when you no longer fit that design?
Keyva is our MC and unfortunately for her and the millions like her who no longer are in the parameters of “perfect” as designated by Cerebis, they are now set for Expiration. Fortunately for Keyva, a powerful AI named Source is directed to save and lead her to a location that is meant to be a home for those who previously were citizens of City H, but who can no longer live in the digital world created there.
However, in this world safety is an illusion just like everything else and we quickly learn that NO ONE is safe, in or out of City H.
🚨Spoilers Ahead🚨
My brain cannot let this story go. The way it began I had my expectations set that this would be a first little novel with some world building and the eventual unveiling of some Big Bad, but this book said “Hold my Blok”.
The action starts and it. Just. Keeps. Coming.
The complicated characters will surprise you, their development is so fantastic and even the smallest characters have stories that you will be invested in.
Abella’s growth is one I can’t WAIT to see more of in book 2. The way she comes off as just a pretty, vapid Elite but then she manages to actively filter and curate her own thoughts to be “Cerebis Approved”, AND to unconsciously still be working toward gathering intel and helping Keyva and their Podmates is something I LOVE.
Source is a precious baby and needs to be protected at all costs and I WILL be fighting Exteber with my bare hands. I’m lowkey hoping we get a Vision moment where he gets to actually have a physical form because he deserves it 😭
Emori was honestly my least favorite character in the beginning, he felt so pretentious and intellectually snobby. By the end, I felt kind of bad for judging him so hard because you start seeing that he is HEAVILY controlling himself and his emotions for self preservation. He tried so hard to protect Keyva and his Podmates, and he had to do it in such difficult and dangerous circumstances. I hope he gets more time in book 2 to let himself FEEL and enjoy more than just solving the next biggest problem 🥺.
I need book 2 yesterday and I can’t wait to dive deeper into this world.
A debut novel that reads like an author who’s been publishing for years. This is one of the best Dystopian books I’ve ever read.
This book. I can’t stop thinking about this book.
City H is a utopia where every citizen lives a life perfectly designed for them. Curated homes, clothing, activities, meals, advertisements, and entertainment all perfectly designed to appeal and placate every individual. But what if the world is not curated to you, what if you’ve been curated to the world around you? And what happens when you no longer fit that design?
Keyva is our MC and unfortunately for her and the millions like her who no longer are in the parameters of “perfect” as designated by Cerebis, they are now set for Expiration. Fortunately for Keyva, a powerful AI named Source is directed to save and lead her to a location that is meant to be a home for those who previously were citizens of City H, but who can no longer live in the digital world created there.
However, in this world safety is an illusion just like everything else and we quickly learn that NO ONE is safe, in or out of City H.
🚨Spoilers Ahead🚨
My brain cannot let this story go. The way it began I had my expectations set that this would be a first little novel with some world building and the eventual unveiling of some Big Bad, but this book said “Hold my Blok”.
The action starts and it. Just. Keeps. Coming.
The complicated characters will surprise you, their development is so fantastic and even the smallest characters have stories that you will be invested in.
Abella’s growth is one I can’t WAIT to see more of in book 2. The way she comes off as just a pretty, vapid Elite but then she manages to actively filter and curate her own thoughts to be “Cerebis Approved”, AND to unconsciously still be working toward gathering intel and helping Keyva and their Podmates is something I LOVE.
Source is a precious baby and needs to be protected at all costs and I WILL be fighting Exteber with my bare hands. I’m lowkey hoping we get a Vision moment where he gets to actually have a physical form because he deserves it 😭
Emori was honestly my least favorite character in the beginning, he felt so pretentious and intellectually snobby. By the end, I felt kind of bad for judging him so hard because you start seeing that he is HEAVILY controlling himself and his emotions for self preservation. He tried so hard to protect Keyva and his Podmates, and he had to do it in such difficult and dangerous circumstances. I hope he gets more time in book 2 to let himself FEEL and enjoy more than just solving the next biggest problem 🥺.
I need book 2 yesterday and I can’t wait to dive deeper into this world.
March 5, 2025
An unexpected read that I took a chance on, I found this book through TikTok!
If you’re into a slow paced dystopian with rich descriptions, this is for you.
Thoughtfully written, great and DIVERSE descriptions. Larkin found so many different ways to say the same thing, even with more simple things like the characters feelings, she found amazing ways to shake it up.
A new and incredible world that rings eerily close to how we’re operating in todays society, I appreciated the fresh ideas of how a “utopia” would operate. Some world feel like they’ve been written over and over, and while there might be other stories that kind of touch on what Larkin describes, I think it was new and fresh enough that it kept me interested.
Twist after twist happened, especially toward the end of the book and they were all tied together quite well. This book caused me to tear up a bit even.
I feel the characters all had great development, even some of the minor characters having development along the way.
Why didn’t this get 5 stars from me?
Maybe I’m too stupid, or it’s user error, but there were a few spots I had to reread to try to understand what was being described. It felt hard for me to keep up in certain places. There was a lotttt of description and it made the story a bit tougher for me to get through in the first half. It was a bit slower for me than I usually like, with the story not really taking off until about CH 22 for me, but the lead up to that was important.
All in all, I’m super happy with this read and I look forward to the next book! This one definitely ends on a cliff hanger!
This story hits a bit close to home as it begins to describe that we are all here to make the rich richer and the poor stay poor… it was cathartic to read it because the book gives hope that the fight is worth it.
If you’re into a slow paced dystopian with rich descriptions, this is for you.
Thoughtfully written, great and DIVERSE descriptions. Larkin found so many different ways to say the same thing, even with more simple things like the characters feelings, she found amazing ways to shake it up.
A new and incredible world that rings eerily close to how we’re operating in todays society, I appreciated the fresh ideas of how a “utopia” would operate. Some world feel like they’ve been written over and over, and while there might be other stories that kind of touch on what Larkin describes, I think it was new and fresh enough that it kept me interested.
Twist after twist happened, especially toward the end of the book and they were all tied together quite well. This book caused me to tear up a bit even.
I feel the characters all had great development, even some of the minor characters having development along the way.
Why didn’t this get 5 stars from me?
Maybe I’m too stupid, or it’s user error, but there were a few spots I had to reread to try to understand what was being described. It felt hard for me to keep up in certain places. There was a lotttt of description and it made the story a bit tougher for me to get through in the first half. It was a bit slower for me than I usually like, with the story not really taking off until about CH 22 for me, but the lead up to that was important.
All in all, I’m super happy with this read and I look forward to the next book! This one definitely ends on a cliff hanger!
This story hits a bit close to home as it begins to describe that we are all here to make the rich richer and the poor stay poor… it was cathartic to read it because the book gives hope that the fight is worth it.
May 27, 2025
First of all..WOW. The author’s writing was fantastic. This was a debut novel and this feels like this author has been publishing for years. The world building and character arcs are refined, the dystopian setting and plot was well thought out, everything about this just needs to be experienced.
In this book’s world, everyone is consumed by technology, AI, and an Inner Elite circle that controls everything. That being said, it’s not hard to draw parallels to today’s society, and this book screams for people to wake up and disconnect! This felt like The Matrix, Ready Player One, and 1984 were brought together and this masterpiece was produced yet uniquely spun by Andra Larkin.
In other words, highly recommend, go read it.
In this book’s world, everyone is consumed by technology, AI, and an Inner Elite circle that controls everything. That being said, it’s not hard to draw parallels to today’s society, and this book screams for people to wake up and disconnect! This felt like The Matrix, Ready Player One, and 1984 were brought together and this masterpiece was produced yet uniquely spun by Andra Larkin.
In other words, highly recommend, go read it.
March 3, 2025
Loved this book! It was put together so thoughtfully and uniquely with undercurrents of today’s society. The characters in the book were relatable and the development allowed for the story to be truly impactful. As a tech human myself, I found a deep appreciation for the techy themes throughout the book that made sense, something I haven’t found in a book before! Truly enjoyable read 🖤
May 1, 2025
Andra Larkin is such an incredible writer that can transport you to the most incredibly detailed scenes that made me almost want to BE there, evil scary society or not! I could not put this book down!!! The visuals she invokes with her writing are so inviting I almost didn’t want to finish. Can’t wait for more! Thanks
August 1, 2025
This was the fastest I have ever finished a book. It gripped me right from the start!
Thinking about the current state of today's social media and the power it has over us. Telling us what to order, how to think and how to act. Veil of Eden creates a world that I can easily see the possibility of that being our not so distant future.
Keyva, a modern citizen living in Cerebis where everything plays out in a virtual existence. The citizens of Ceribus don't even know it. They have no idea what the real world is like. Neural devices planted in their brains only shows them what the system wants them to see.
Surprise Surpise, the political leaders and government control everyones thoughts.
The world building is a gradual release. But it's told in such a powerful way that you can picture this dystopian world so easily.
When Keyva is awakened to the reality, she becomes a rebel and must run and fight her way to safety all the while tring to save her friends. Her consiousness and a rogue AI named Source living inside her mind help her evade the political leaders that want her dead. They will stop at nothing!
All the characters are completely relatable, making it easy to connect to any one of them, including the AI.
If you're a conspiracy theorist and afraid of who might be watching your every move through technology, this book is right up your alley. The whole concept of the world in this book makes me question if we already have electronic neural devices planted in our brains lying dormant, just waiting for the perfect moment to take control.
Andra's world building is so real that it makes it seem possible that we are already living in an age of mind control.
If you like books like '1984' or 'Brave New World' you will love this book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes sci-fi, dystopian fiction and any kind of thriller fiction that crosses the boundaries between humanity and technology.
Five stars in all categories. Can't wait for Book 2!
Thinking about the current state of today's social media and the power it has over us. Telling us what to order, how to think and how to act. Veil of Eden creates a world that I can easily see the possibility of that being our not so distant future.
Keyva, a modern citizen living in Cerebis where everything plays out in a virtual existence. The citizens of Ceribus don't even know it. They have no idea what the real world is like. Neural devices planted in their brains only shows them what the system wants them to see.
Surprise Surpise, the political leaders and government control everyones thoughts.
The world building is a gradual release. But it's told in such a powerful way that you can picture this dystopian world so easily.
When Keyva is awakened to the reality, she becomes a rebel and must run and fight her way to safety all the while tring to save her friends. Her consiousness and a rogue AI named Source living inside her mind help her evade the political leaders that want her dead. They will stop at nothing!
All the characters are completely relatable, making it easy to connect to any one of them, including the AI.
If you're a conspiracy theorist and afraid of who might be watching your every move through technology, this book is right up your alley. The whole concept of the world in this book makes me question if we already have electronic neural devices planted in our brains lying dormant, just waiting for the perfect moment to take control.
Andra's world building is so real that it makes it seem possible that we are already living in an age of mind control.
If you like books like '1984' or 'Brave New World' you will love this book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes sci-fi, dystopian fiction and any kind of thriller fiction that crosses the boundaries between humanity and technology.
Five stars in all categories. Can't wait for Book 2!
August 1, 2025
This was soooo good! You would never know this was a debut, Andra’s writing pulled me right into the story immediately and had me turning pages anytime I had a minute to read. The characters were really well written and unique. The story is exciting and I felt like the pacing was consistent throughout the whole book. It hits close to home too with technology and AI and what they could potentially be used for. Already have my fiancé and her mom wanting to read it and I will/would definitely recommend this to anyone who is into sci-if/dystopian stories. I am so ready for book two!! That ending was perfect and just makes you pumped for what’s coming next!
July 27, 2025
4.25 stars
Unique story that immerses you immediately into this alternate dystopian and sim world from the start. The characters are immediately likeable as you follow the main FMC in her discovery of truths about her world that'll have you going WHAT!? The AI element was intriguing! Definitely a story like Ive never read before and would recommend to those who enjoyed movies like the Matrix, Lucy, and Surrogates.
Unique story that immerses you immediately into this alternate dystopian and sim world from the start. The characters are immediately likeable as you follow the main FMC in her discovery of truths about her world that'll have you going WHAT!? The AI element was intriguing! Definitely a story like Ive never read before and would recommend to those who enjoyed movies like the Matrix, Lucy, and Surrogates.
September 23, 2025
This book needed an editor.
June 16, 2025
Characters: 4.00⭐️
Setting: 4.25⭐️
Plot: 4.50⭐️
Themes: 4.00⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 4.00⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4.25⭐️
Overall rating: 4.25⭐️
In a world where citizens are connected in their everyday lives, neural devices are supposed to bring joy and comfort and ease. However, with any device, there was an update which purged imperfect people, wiping out millions of people. Keyva was supposed to be one of them, but she survives the update, disconnecting her from society excommunicating her to a place call the Rem where people go to "expire" naturally. She is tasked with uncovering the truth about the system that society was built on.
Andra Larkin's Veil of Eden: Expired is a true sci-fi dystopian novel. The book has a diverse array of characters and some great themes that are relevant to our society today. The book felt like a Black Mirror episode. The world building was great and the pacing was fast and kept you engaged. For a debut novel, this was a great book.
Overall, I would recommend this to anyone who wants a true science fiction dystopian books.
Setting: 4.25⭐️
Plot: 4.50⭐️
Themes: 4.00⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 4.00⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4.25⭐️
Overall rating: 4.25⭐️
In a world where citizens are connected in their everyday lives, neural devices are supposed to bring joy and comfort and ease. However, with any device, there was an update which purged imperfect people, wiping out millions of people. Keyva was supposed to be one of them, but she survives the update, disconnecting her from society excommunicating her to a place call the Rem where people go to "expire" naturally. She is tasked with uncovering the truth about the system that society was built on.
Andra Larkin's Veil of Eden: Expired is a true sci-fi dystopian novel. The book has a diverse array of characters and some great themes that are relevant to our society today. The book felt like a Black Mirror episode. The world building was great and the pacing was fast and kept you engaged. For a debut novel, this was a great book.
Overall, I would recommend this to anyone who wants a true science fiction dystopian books.
June 25, 2025
This book is amazing! Definitely on my books I’ll reread again! My first Dystopian indie book and it was amazing ! The story is beautifully told with multiple POVs and flows so well! Cannot wait for the next book
June 19, 2025
I bought this book from the author on TT. She is a sweet person and so happy about her book (as she should be). She is so talented, drawing the cover and a few stickers.
The way she described the book it was really interesting for me. I couldn’t wait to read it. When I finally got to read it I could not get into it. I like Sci-fi books but this was definitely intense sci-fi. I just didn’t understand a lot of the scientific words. I finished reading chapter 4 and had to put it as a DNF. Maybe I will go back to it but for now I put it back on my shelf.
It definitely sounds like it might be a great book. So I would definitely check it out if you are a Sci-Fi reader.
The way she described the book it was really interesting for me. I couldn’t wait to read it. When I finally got to read it I could not get into it. I like Sci-fi books but this was definitely intense sci-fi. I just didn’t understand a lot of the scientific words. I finished reading chapter 4 and had to put it as a DNF. Maybe I will go back to it but for now I put it back on my shelf.
It definitely sounds like it might be a great book. So I would definitely check it out if you are a Sci-Fi reader.
September 12, 2025
I really enjoyed the concept for this book. But it didn’t feel nearly as fleshed out as it could have been. Or rather we had odd moments where the world was extremely fleshed out in details that didn’t matter all that much and then we missed out on huge moments later.
The characters were interesting though I felt we got a lot of PoV from characters that didn’t matter as much as some of our major players. The Source character was fun but the swinging between him being childlike and being a borderline love interest was odd.
Overall, cool idea, mid execution, I’d consider reading something from this author two or three books down the line.
The characters were interesting though I felt we got a lot of PoV from characters that didn’t matter as much as some of our major players. The Source character was fun but the swinging between him being childlike and being a borderline love interest was odd.
Overall, cool idea, mid execution, I’d consider reading something from this author two or three books down the line.
June 4, 2025
Thought provoking, original story. Felt like I was stuck in a black mirror episode. Well written and well paced. Unique world building.
May 21, 2025
Fantastic read! Such amazing concepts
The cover drew me in, but the story had so many ups and downs, so many twists and turns, I felt like I was on a roller coaster the whole time. Definitely recommend!
The cover drew me in, but the story had so many ups and downs, so many twists and turns, I felt like I was on a roller coaster the whole time. Definitely recommend!
March 28, 2025
The author’s descriptive style immerses you so completely in the world she’s created that you feel like you’re experiencing it firsthand. The characters are richly developed, making their journeys both compelling and emotionally resonant. This book kept me hooked from start to finish—an absolute must-read! I hope that this is the beginning of a remarkable series.
September 17, 2025
This book sucks you in right from the beginning!
As I was reading I could imagine a society being like this with all the detail in the writing it’s fantastic! 🤩 there were a few spots that kind of dragged a tiny bit but not where you’d get bored reading. And the cliffhanger we were left on!!! I need to know ASAPP what’s going to happen next!
As I was reading I could imagine a society being like this with all the detail in the writing it’s fantastic! 🤩 there were a few spots that kind of dragged a tiny bit but not where you’d get bored reading. And the cliffhanger we were left on!!! I need to know ASAPP what’s going to happen next!
March 6, 2025
4.5 stars! This just might be my new favorite dystopian novel. If you like the movie Lucy with Scarlet Johansson you should check out this book! I loved the concept of this book and I love the relationship between Keyva and Source
April 12, 2025
Omg this book! Such a great story. Normally not my type of genre but. I feel in love with source and Arturo. It is emotional but intense. Leave on a cliffhanger. But love the plot of this story! Cant wait for book 2
May 7, 2025
4.5/5
Loved.
Writing style 3/5 for a debut this author did great!!
Characters 4/5 loved them.
Plot 4/5 twists turns, never knowing what to expect. It was mesmerizing!
Spice 🌶️ 0/5
Extra notes:
I met the author, at a convention and she is the sweetest woman ever
Favorite character: Source
Loved.
Writing style 3/5 for a debut this author did great!!
Characters 4/5 loved them.
Plot 4/5 twists turns, never knowing what to expect. It was mesmerizing!
Spice 🌶️ 0/5
Extra notes:
I met the author, at a convention and she is the sweetest woman ever
Favorite character: Source
May 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all — I have to say how exciting it is to read such a creative debut novel from a local author! Andra Larkin came out swinging with a concept that feels incredibly fresh, especially in a world where AI is already changing our lives faster than most of us can keep up with. *Veil of Eden Expired* takes dystopian sci-fi, AI, dream worlds, and the conscious vs. unconscious mind and blends them together in a way I honestly haven’t seen before. 🧠✨🤖
The IDEA behind this book is really freaking cool. The near-future setting feels believable in a slightly terrifying way because so much of what seemed impossible even a year ago already feels normal now. That made the world-building hit even harder for me. I could absolutely picture society evolving into something like this, which made the story feel immersive and unsettling in the best way.
I also really loved the multiple POVs. Seeing both how characters function in society *and* what’s happening internally added such an interesting layer to the story. There’s this constant tension between appearance and reality, consciousness and subconsciousness, and it made me want to keep peeling back layers of the world and the characters.
And can we talk about the Auracat?! 😭🐈 I am fully obsessed. I want one immediately. Auri’s artwork is SO adorable and honestly deserves its own fan club. I need another print of her right meow. 😂
Once the story got moving, I was completely sucked in and felt genuinely immersed in the world. The creativity here is undeniable, and it left me wanting to know so much more about the universe Andra has created. That’s honestly one of the best compliments I can give a first book in a series — I immediately wanted book two.
If I had one critique, it would be that the first few chapters took me a little time to settle into. It felt like there were so many cool ideas, visuals, and pieces of world-building being introduced quickly that it was a bit overwhelming at first. But once everything clicked into place, I was hooked. I also noticed a little inconsistency in the POV transitions at times, but it definitely didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall, this was such an imaginative debut with a ton of potential, and I genuinely cannot wait to see where the series goes next. 🚀📚
First of all — I have to say how exciting it is to read such a creative debut novel from a local author! Andra Larkin came out swinging with a concept that feels incredibly fresh, especially in a world where AI is already changing our lives faster than most of us can keep up with. *Veil of Eden Expired* takes dystopian sci-fi, AI, dream worlds, and the conscious vs. unconscious mind and blends them together in a way I honestly haven’t seen before. 🧠✨🤖
The IDEA behind this book is really freaking cool. The near-future setting feels believable in a slightly terrifying way because so much of what seemed impossible even a year ago already feels normal now. That made the world-building hit even harder for me. I could absolutely picture society evolving into something like this, which made the story feel immersive and unsettling in the best way.
I also really loved the multiple POVs. Seeing both how characters function in society *and* what’s happening internally added such an interesting layer to the story. There’s this constant tension between appearance and reality, consciousness and subconsciousness, and it made me want to keep peeling back layers of the world and the characters.
And can we talk about the Auracat?! 😭🐈 I am fully obsessed. I want one immediately. Auri’s artwork is SO adorable and honestly deserves its own fan club. I need another print of her right meow. 😂
Once the story got moving, I was completely sucked in and felt genuinely immersed in the world. The creativity here is undeniable, and it left me wanting to know so much more about the universe Andra has created. That’s honestly one of the best compliments I can give a first book in a series — I immediately wanted book two.
If I had one critique, it would be that the first few chapters took me a little time to settle into. It felt like there were so many cool ideas, visuals, and pieces of world-building being introduced quickly that it was a bit overwhelming at first. But once everything clicked into place, I was hooked. I also noticed a little inconsistency in the POV transitions at times, but it definitely didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall, this was such an imaginative debut with a ton of potential, and I genuinely cannot wait to see where the series goes next. 🚀📚
May 6, 2026
Rating 4.5 Rounded up
Veil of Eden is a dystopian novel set in a futuristic society where humans live under a system that controls their thoughts, emotions, and perceptions through neural implants.
The premise is unsettling on multiple levels. First, it imagines a world where perfection isn’t imposed by force, but by perception. People aren’t controlled, they just never encounter anything that invites resistance. Second, it feels disturbingly close to home, carrying an eerie, all-too-relevant edge. That idea alone carries the book, and Larkin explores it with a slow, almost hypnotic unraveling.
The worldbuilding is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Cerebis presents itself as a flawless utopia—a world without visible poverty, crime, or conflict. Its citizens are calm, compliant, and emotionally balanced, and everything feels almost unnaturally pristine, like glass untouched by a single fingerprint.
But as that illusion begins to fracture, the tone shifts into something far more unsettling. Reality itself starts to feel unstable, and that quiet unease lingers long after you’ve closed the book.
I found the Neural System darkly fascinating. It tracks every individual in real time, anticipating behavior before it unfolds and quietly correcting any “deviations” without the person ever realizing. It feels less like a tool and more like an invisible operating system for human consciousness—which is exactly what makes it so unsettling. AI here isn’t something people use; it’s woven into the very foundation of the world.
That said, the book sometimes seems to favor big ideas over clearly defined mechanics. I don’t mind that approach, but I did find myself wishing for a bit more clarity around how the system actually works.
Overall, Veil of Eden is a haunting, idea-heavy dystopian that trades speed and character depth for atmosphere and philosophical weight and for the right reader, that trade is absolutely worth it. I loved it. It’s stunning, haunting, intelligent, and deeply relevant sci-fi that feels uncomfortably close to reality.
Veil of Eden is a dystopian novel set in a futuristic society where humans live under a system that controls their thoughts, emotions, and perceptions through neural implants.
The premise is unsettling on multiple levels. First, it imagines a world where perfection isn’t imposed by force, but by perception. People aren’t controlled, they just never encounter anything that invites resistance. Second, it feels disturbingly close to home, carrying an eerie, all-too-relevant edge. That idea alone carries the book, and Larkin explores it with a slow, almost hypnotic unraveling.
The worldbuilding is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Cerebis presents itself as a flawless utopia—a world without visible poverty, crime, or conflict. Its citizens are calm, compliant, and emotionally balanced, and everything feels almost unnaturally pristine, like glass untouched by a single fingerprint.
But as that illusion begins to fracture, the tone shifts into something far more unsettling. Reality itself starts to feel unstable, and that quiet unease lingers long after you’ve closed the book.
I found the Neural System darkly fascinating. It tracks every individual in real time, anticipating behavior before it unfolds and quietly correcting any “deviations” without the person ever realizing. It feels less like a tool and more like an invisible operating system for human consciousness—which is exactly what makes it so unsettling. AI here isn’t something people use; it’s woven into the very foundation of the world.
That said, the book sometimes seems to favor big ideas over clearly defined mechanics. I don’t mind that approach, but I did find myself wishing for a bit more clarity around how the system actually works.
Overall, Veil of Eden is a haunting, idea-heavy dystopian that trades speed and character depth for atmosphere and philosophical weight and for the right reader, that trade is absolutely worth it. I loved it. It’s stunning, haunting, intelligent, and deeply relevant sci-fi that feels uncomfortably close to reality.
May 9, 2025
This was a fun read. Larkin has managed to craft a universe that bridges the gap between a quintessential piece of dystopian fiction, Huxley’s Brave New World, with elements one might find in a Black Mirror episode. Or at least that was my impression while reading the work. It created a sense of fresh visuals and there were some elements of the way the society of Cerebis was constructed that terrified me and made me consider the commentary on the human condition.
One Element I really enjoyed was how she was able to balance virtual reality gaming/interactions without it consuming the entire narrative. There was just enough of it to keep me engage, while simultaneously interweaving it with the outer world to create a threat to the main character.
The only piece I felt could have been added to get a little more satisfaction out of leaving the story and waiting for book 2, was understanding a tad bit more about the main character’s qualities that triggered the main events of the book. However, I understand this is going to be explored in the follow up.
In summary, if you like science fiction, especially the kind that focuses on technology that one could easily imagine being implemented for the worst in 50 years, pick this book up!
One Element I really enjoyed was how she was able to balance virtual reality gaming/interactions without it consuming the entire narrative. There was just enough of it to keep me engage, while simultaneously interweaving it with the outer world to create a threat to the main character.
The only piece I felt could have been added to get a little more satisfaction out of leaving the story and waiting for book 2, was understanding a tad bit more about the main character’s qualities that triggered the main events of the book. However, I understand this is going to be explored in the follow up.
In summary, if you like science fiction, especially the kind that focuses on technology that one could easily imagine being implemented for the worst in 50 years, pick this book up!
September 18, 2025
This debut novel by Andra Larkin has quickly become one of my favorite sci-fi books!
The pace is at times fast and incredibly engaging but at others slow and artfully crafted.
This novel is an easy read—but not in the way that other books are easy to read because they are simply written. The rhythm of her prose is just plain beautiful and pulls you right into the dystopian world that she has created.
Larkin writes like she’s been doing this for years and it’s actually quite unbelievable that this is her very first book.
The characters are lovable but complex in all the right ways, and develop at different times and in different ways for their unique stories. I loved all of them.
The themes within the novel definitely hold a mirror up to our lives in 2025 and I think this year in particular is great timing for this story to be shared with the world.
I’m so happy I took a chance on this book just from seeing her lives on TikTok and I strongly encourage you to do the same. No spoilers obviously, but the end reveal is 🤌 *chef’s kiss*.
I CANNOT wait for the second book— I’m already recommending it to all of my friends and family!
The pace is at times fast and incredibly engaging but at others slow and artfully crafted.
This novel is an easy read—but not in the way that other books are easy to read because they are simply written. The rhythm of her prose is just plain beautiful and pulls you right into the dystopian world that she has created.
Larkin writes like she’s been doing this for years and it’s actually quite unbelievable that this is her very first book.
The characters are lovable but complex in all the right ways, and develop at different times and in different ways for their unique stories. I loved all of them.
The themes within the novel definitely hold a mirror up to our lives in 2025 and I think this year in particular is great timing for this story to be shared with the world.
I’m so happy I took a chance on this book just from seeing her lives on TikTok and I strongly encourage you to do the same. No spoilers obviously, but the end reveal is 🤌 *chef’s kiss*.
I CANNOT wait for the second book— I’m already recommending it to all of my friends and family!
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