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Beneath False Stars (Volume 1)
368 pages, Hardcover
Published September 9, 2025
3 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
S.D. Grimm
23 books205 followersS. D. Grimm’s first love in writing is young adult fantasy and science fiction, which is to be expected from someone who looks up to heroes like Captain America and Wonder Woman, has been sorted into Gryffindor, identifies as rebel scum, and loves elevensies as much as afternoon tea. Her patronus is a red Voltron lion, her spirit animal is Toothless, and she totally has a superpower. She is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency, her office is anywhere she can curl up with her laptop and at least one large-sized dog, and you can learn more about her upcoming novels at www.sdgrimm.com
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 21, 2025
I’mma have to figure out a new color to associate this fandom with because WHAT THE HECK I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH.
I read the whole thing in a day and I am not ashamed, I am glad I was listening to the audiobook outside because I was talking out loud to these characters and yelling at them often.
Speaking of characters, that’s a good place to start. I COULD HEAR THEIR VOICES!!! The audiobook narrator was a lovely pick and it was just *chef’s kiss*. I wanted to whack Ryleigh a few times but she was still likable and KNOX MY BOI dang ferret I hate enemies to lovers but this was actually GOOD like this was a GOOD arc and not too based on the physical which is always appreciated.
On a technical level, this was phenomenal. Wonderful pacing and storyline. I, someone who normally calls out spoilers miles away, was even unsure of my predictions. At some point I wanted to do stuff with my own stories and my brain was like “NO WE ARE FINISHING THIS BOOK” and thus I got nothing done except reading BFS.
I am not sorry.
Loved how the author broke my heart with Sam, like I was SO there for the Bryce and Knox and Sam brother dynamics that I was like “BROSSSSS BRO DYNAMICS YES I LOVE LETS GOOOO” and I had this mini fantasy about all the things to come with this and HARD shipping Sam and Violet and not three minutes later S. D. KILLS HIM LIKE WHAT NO HOW DARE YOU DO THAT TO MY PRECIOUS SAMMY *angry feral reader noises* and I was left there standing in the hay shed whimpering to myself while the story moved on to five years later.
I love how Ryleigh isn’t on one side or the other about Powereds. Like that is so refreshing. To want people alive but just maybe without their powers… yesss (props to the author for NOT making her end up with powers, like I don’t MIND it but it is overused and I like the fresh perspective we got going here)
World building is PHENOMENAL oh my there’s so many layers and I love it. My ONE caveat, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing bc I LOVE The Chaos Grid… um it feels like an AU of The Chaos Grid. Like The Chaos Grid with superhumans and a side dish of intergalactic wars. There’s just a lot of similar tech terms between the Domes and the Wildlands, similar KINDS of tech (I think both mention book cubes instead of books and music patches behind ears, a feature that’s ALSO in Nadine Brandes’ A Time to Die books) and bringing up cybernetics and it probably didn’t help that the narrator was the same for both books, so it enhanced the similarities in dialogue voice between Ryleigh and Juniper (both snarky hacker girls with trauma pasts and something/someone they hate for it) and especially Laney and Tori.
Again it’s not a bad thing and on one hand it’s kinda cool because it makes it feel like the books could be from different regions of the same country or something. I just find the similarities amusing.
Fair warning: it does have your typical cliffhanger ending one might usually expect to find in a duology. However I didn’t feel entirely cheated which was nice.
I love Knox. Protective bois just… *chef’s kiss* I love him. I was worried about a love triangle between Bryce and Knox and Ryleigh but nope Ryleigh has normal guy friends and I like it.
(The part where Knox is reading The Outsiders had me cackling so hard bc I was just thinking that he kinda reminded me of a character Hinton would write)
I love the boi, one caveat with him was that he clichely smells like the woods but he said “as you wish” to Ryleigh two paragraphs later and I forgave all after that.
(Am I the only one who notices that Enclave books kinda have a similar tone to them? Like the author voices are different but… idk… it’s funny bc most Enclave books have that Enclave flavor and mild… predictability? Idk how to explain it. But this kept me guessing and subverted my expectations so many times. It kept the Enclave flavor but had its own flavor too and it was very refreshing.)
All in all an excellent and riveting book, really enjoyed it and the cast and there was so much squealing over it and yes I want the next one GIMME.
Content Warnings: Rather clean book, mainly potentially disturbing descriptions of injuries, potentially gruesome on screen deaths, and a very mildly described on screen suicide (does mention method of suicide and is a character close to the FMC). Discussions of past physical abuse.
Also don’t think I missed that “product of a glitch” piece. Verryyyy sneaky, ma’am. We all know what you meant 😜
I read the whole thing in a day and I am not ashamed, I am glad I was listening to the audiobook outside because I was talking out loud to these characters and yelling at them often.
Speaking of characters, that’s a good place to start. I COULD HEAR THEIR VOICES!!! The audiobook narrator was a lovely pick and it was just *chef’s kiss*. I wanted to whack Ryleigh a few times but she was still likable and KNOX MY BOI dang ferret I hate enemies to lovers but this was actually GOOD like this was a GOOD arc and not too based on the physical which is always appreciated.
On a technical level, this was phenomenal. Wonderful pacing and storyline. I, someone who normally calls out spoilers miles away, was even unsure of my predictions. At some point I wanted to do stuff with my own stories and my brain was like “NO WE ARE FINISHING THIS BOOK” and thus I got nothing done except reading BFS.
I am not sorry.
Loved how the author broke my heart with Sam, like I was SO there for the Bryce and Knox and Sam brother dynamics that I was like “BROSSSSS BRO DYNAMICS YES I LOVE LETS GOOOO” and I had this mini fantasy about all the things to come with this and HARD shipping Sam and Violet and not three minutes later S. D. KILLS HIM LIKE WHAT NO HOW DARE YOU DO THAT TO MY PRECIOUS SAMMY *angry feral reader noises* and I was left there standing in the hay shed whimpering to myself while the story moved on to five years later.
I love how Ryleigh isn’t on one side or the other about Powereds. Like that is so refreshing. To want people alive but just maybe without their powers… yesss (props to the author for NOT making her end up with powers, like I don’t MIND it but it is overused and I like the fresh perspective we got going here)
World building is PHENOMENAL oh my there’s so many layers and I love it. My ONE caveat, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing bc I LOVE The Chaos Grid… um it feels like an AU of The Chaos Grid. Like The Chaos Grid with superhumans and a side dish of intergalactic wars. There’s just a lot of similar tech terms between the Domes and the Wildlands, similar KINDS of tech (I think both mention book cubes instead of books and music patches behind ears, a feature that’s ALSO in Nadine Brandes’ A Time to Die books) and bringing up cybernetics and it probably didn’t help that the narrator was the same for both books, so it enhanced the similarities in dialogue voice between Ryleigh and Juniper (both snarky hacker girls with trauma pasts and something/someone they hate for it) and especially Laney and Tori.
Again it’s not a bad thing and on one hand it’s kinda cool because it makes it feel like the books could be from different regions of the same country or something. I just find the similarities amusing.
Fair warning: it does have your typical cliffhanger ending one might usually expect to find in a duology. However I didn’t feel entirely cheated which was nice.
I love Knox. Protective bois just… *chef’s kiss* I love him. I was worried about a love triangle between Bryce and Knox and Ryleigh but nope Ryleigh has normal guy friends and I like it.
(The part where Knox is reading The Outsiders had me cackling so hard bc I was just thinking that he kinda reminded me of a character Hinton would write)
I love the boi, one caveat with him was that he clichely smells like the woods but he said “as you wish” to Ryleigh two paragraphs later and I forgave all after that.
(Am I the only one who notices that Enclave books kinda have a similar tone to them? Like the author voices are different but… idk… it’s funny bc most Enclave books have that Enclave flavor and mild… predictability? Idk how to explain it. But this kept me guessing and subverted my expectations so many times. It kept the Enclave flavor but had its own flavor too and it was very refreshing.)
All in all an excellent and riveting book, really enjoyed it and the cast and there was so much squealing over it and yes I want the next one GIMME.
Content Warnings: Rather clean book, mainly potentially disturbing descriptions of injuries, potentially gruesome on screen deaths, and a very mildly described on screen suicide (does mention method of suicide and is a character close to the FMC). Discussions of past physical abuse.
Also don’t think I missed that “product of a glitch” piece. Verryyyy sneaky, ma’am. We all know what you meant 😜
August 25, 2025
WELL. That was a wild ride and I am not entirely sure I'm okay because WHAT DO YOU MEAN I have to wait for the next book to release?? This book has a lot of similar elements to my own story and would make a great comp title, which makes it an automatic win. I did find the main character a little hard to root for in the beginning, but once she started to undergo her character arc, it got a lot easier. Very excited for the next book whenever it releases!
January 31, 2026
4 Stars ✨
YA Sci-fi / Dystopian
💫dystopian society
💫reluctant hero
💫slow burn
💫enemies to allies
💫political intrigue
💫no spice / clean read
Ryleigh is a hacker who lives in a world where powers are controlled and truth is dangerous. When a secret government initiative puts her and the “Powered” at risk, she must use her skills and courage to navigate politics , moral dilemmas, and deadly alliances.
I didn’t know what to expect going into this one, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it! I loved Ryleigh, she was relatable, smart, and resourceful - considering the things she has been through. I enjoyed following her on her quest for truth.
Knox was so mysterious, I couldn’t wait to get to know him as the story progressed. The push and pull between him and Ryleigh was well balanced. Their slow burn romance develops naturally and it added a lot of emotional depth, without taking over the story. I thought the writing and plot were well done and I really enjoyed the themes of loyalty, trust and cost of seeking the truth.
Overall, if you like high stakes, inspiring themes, character growth and slow burning romance on the side- I would definitely recommend this one!
YA Sci-fi / Dystopian
💫dystopian society
💫reluctant hero
💫slow burn
💫enemies to allies
💫political intrigue
💫no spice / clean read
Ryleigh is a hacker who lives in a world where powers are controlled and truth is dangerous. When a secret government initiative puts her and the “Powered” at risk, she must use her skills and courage to navigate politics , moral dilemmas, and deadly alliances.
I didn’t know what to expect going into this one, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it! I loved Ryleigh, she was relatable, smart, and resourceful - considering the things she has been through. I enjoyed following her on her quest for truth.
Knox was so mysterious, I couldn’t wait to get to know him as the story progressed. The push and pull between him and Ryleigh was well balanced. Their slow burn romance develops naturally and it added a lot of emotional depth, without taking over the story. I thought the writing and plot were well done and I really enjoyed the themes of loyalty, trust and cost of seeking the truth.
Overall, if you like high stakes, inspiring themes, character growth and slow burning romance on the side- I would definitely recommend this one!
January 24, 2026
I was given an ARC copy of this book by the publisher as thanks for being on their street team. A review was not required. The following review is my honest opinion.
I will be super honest here and say that, had I not been gifted an ARC of this book, I wasn’t necessarily planning to read it so soon. It wasn’t that it didn’t sound interesting, it just hadn’t been one that specifically jumped out at me as one that I was personally dying to read immediately. But I did read it, and WOW, this thing grabbed me by the throat and wouldn’t let go. XD
The author did a really great job of sprinkling in information as it was most needed. She could have easily dumped all of Ryleigh and her brother’s childhood in the beginning, but she instead sprinkled that information where it was the most crucial, drawing connections between the events of the past and how it shaped Ryleigh’s perception of certain things and people, which was critical to understanding Ryleigh’s view of the world.
In the beginning, there were ways that the integration of the powered kids into a school of normals (at least as normal as anyone can get in a society where the government has everyone wearing special arm bands that may or may not be used to control the populace) felt like it could have been inspired to a small degree by historical instances of school desegregation, with some people supporting it and some protesting it even at the school. I’d wondered at first if maybe this was something of a historical retelling in a scifi skin, but while certain historical inspirations may have been there, (that’s just my guess, I don’t know for sure), it ended up building a world that was unique to itself that I really enjoyed discovering without being able to predict everything that would happen.
Ryleigh was a complex character in that, despite being supportive of the integration project, she still held deep prejudice against one particular powered whom she blamed for her brother’s death. I actually liked that she was imperfect in the way because, despite my occasional frustration with her prejudices, they were understandable, and it made it so that, when she changed, the growth was that much more meaningful. As someone who has dealt with anxiety myself, I also really appreciated the depiction of Ryleigh’s anxiety. There were many times I was like, “I feel you, girl, I feel you.” I honestly wish I’d found a character like her when I was a teen, because I really would have seen myself in her back then. Even as an adult who still sometimes struggles with anxiety (to a lesser degree than I did as a teen), I appreciated seeing Ryleigh learn to deal with, and find understanding and support for what she was feeling, even when the support came from unexpected places.
As for the other characters, I really appreciated the dynamics between Ryleigh and her family and friends, and I thought they were so well done. Everyone was distinct and had such complex things going on. Not everyone’s story went where I thought it would go, which was refreshing, and even Ryleigh had things to learn about people she thought she knew.
I’m not usually one to go for enemies-to-lovers because half the time, the couple either weren’t really enemies (looking at you, Hallmark), or the enemy is a literal villain, and the relationship is toxic. But this story handled it really, really, really well. I almost hesitate to call it enemies-to-lovers because at the moment it’s more like enemies-to-friends-to-slowly developing feelings for each other, which I think is the best way to do it. And Ryleigh’s perceived “enemy” was never a bad person in the first place; there were manipulations going on by other people to make her think that. I’m trying to dance around naming him to not just outright spoil it, but I actually really liked him from the start because it was clear to me that he was a protector, willing to put himself in harm’s way so that others wouldn’t be hurt.
Toward the end of the book, I just couldn’t stop reading and was literally gasping at some of the things that were happening. I will now, officially, be in emotional turmoil until the next book comes out, thank you very much. XD
Recommended to lovers of scifi and dystopians.
Content Advisory:
This book is YA scifi and appropriate for teens. It should be noted that some things toward the end get a bit intense, though, so please read the violence section if you, or your teen can be sensitive toward such things. I would say 16+ is the best age since I personally would have been sensitive to some of the violence here when I was under 16.
Language:
None. There are made-up words that are used as slurs against powered people. These fictional words have no relation to real life slurs.
Violence/Scariness:
Ryleigh's brother gets killed in an explosion. Mention of his bloodied body on the ground.
Someone's power-controlling arm band starts to give him a nose bleed because he's trying to use his powers around it.
It's stated that there’s a kill switch in the armbands of powered people, but it doesn’t get used in this story.
Ryleigh recalls the first time she met Knox when they were younger and found him beating up another kid. Description of punching and some mentions of blood on knuckles and faces.
Someone gets sprayed in the eyes with acid. The injury isn’t described, but it’s clear the person is in pain and they end up in the hospital and blinded. Someone else’s back gets sprayed with acid when he protects a girl from getting sprayed. It’s clear that it’s painful, but the person recovers.
It's revealed that sometimes the authorities secretly execute people for one reason or another. Ryleigh witnesses a girl get shot with bullets after the girl's legs get illegally healed by a powered person. The death is moderately described, with brief mention of the sight of blood on a wall after the fact. Mention that the girl’s body gets callously thrown over the dome wall to dispose of it.
Many of the law enforcement training simulations (and some soldier training simulations) that Ryleigh and friends must experience during their studies are quite violent. The computer stimulates senses, including pain, so that the experience looks and feels real. Fake simulation characters die, sometimes. (Never extreme, but sometimes blood gets mentioned briefly.) If one of the trainees gets hit, the simulation makes it look and feel like they’re really injured. There are some descriptions of pain, and in one simulation, Knox is made to look like he’s bleeding a lot from his leg and torso.
A girl gets beaten up by a boy in an attempt to frame Knox and Ryleigh for it. The beating is not described. Knox and Ryleigh simply find the girl with a swollen and bloodied face and she tells them who did it. Knox later gets attacked and beaten as well, though this is also not described.
Someone gets (non-fatally) shot by a laser weapon at one point. Pain is described and the person ends up in the hospital.
Toward the end, things get a bit more violent. Someone’s leg gets shot off during an attempted escape. (Blood described.) Two people are shot in front of a crowd in a government execution (barely described) and then the shooter (who, if I understood correctly, was being mind-controlled) turns the gun on themselves (not described.)
I will be super honest here and say that, had I not been gifted an ARC of this book, I wasn’t necessarily planning to read it so soon. It wasn’t that it didn’t sound interesting, it just hadn’t been one that specifically jumped out at me as one that I was personally dying to read immediately. But I did read it, and WOW, this thing grabbed me by the throat and wouldn’t let go. XD
The author did a really great job of sprinkling in information as it was most needed. She could have easily dumped all of Ryleigh and her brother’s childhood in the beginning, but she instead sprinkled that information where it was the most crucial, drawing connections between the events of the past and how it shaped Ryleigh’s perception of certain things and people, which was critical to understanding Ryleigh’s view of the world.
In the beginning, there were ways that the integration of the powered kids into a school of normals (at least as normal as anyone can get in a society where the government has everyone wearing special arm bands that may or may not be used to control the populace) felt like it could have been inspired to a small degree by historical instances of school desegregation, with some people supporting it and some protesting it even at the school. I’d wondered at first if maybe this was something of a historical retelling in a scifi skin, but while certain historical inspirations may have been there, (that’s just my guess, I don’t know for sure), it ended up building a world that was unique to itself that I really enjoyed discovering without being able to predict everything that would happen.
Ryleigh was a complex character in that, despite being supportive of the integration project, she still held deep prejudice against one particular powered whom she blamed for her brother’s death. I actually liked that she was imperfect in the way because, despite my occasional frustration with her prejudices, they were understandable, and it made it so that, when she changed, the growth was that much more meaningful. As someone who has dealt with anxiety myself, I also really appreciated the depiction of Ryleigh’s anxiety. There were many times I was like, “I feel you, girl, I feel you.” I honestly wish I’d found a character like her when I was a teen, because I really would have seen myself in her back then. Even as an adult who still sometimes struggles with anxiety (to a lesser degree than I did as a teen), I appreciated seeing Ryleigh learn to deal with, and find understanding and support for what she was feeling, even when the support came from unexpected places.
As for the other characters, I really appreciated the dynamics between Ryleigh and her family and friends, and I thought they were so well done. Everyone was distinct and had such complex things going on. Not everyone’s story went where I thought it would go, which was refreshing, and even Ryleigh had things to learn about people she thought she knew.
I’m not usually one to go for enemies-to-lovers because half the time, the couple either weren’t really enemies (looking at you, Hallmark), or the enemy is a literal villain, and the relationship is toxic. But this story handled it really, really, really well. I almost hesitate to call it enemies-to-lovers because at the moment it’s more like enemies-to-friends-to-slowly developing feelings for each other, which I think is the best way to do it. And Ryleigh’s perceived “enemy” was never a bad person in the first place; there were manipulations going on by other people to make her think that. I’m trying to dance around naming him to not just outright spoil it, but I actually really liked him from the start because it was clear to me that he was a protector, willing to put himself in harm’s way so that others wouldn’t be hurt.
Toward the end of the book, I just couldn’t stop reading and was literally gasping at some of the things that were happening. I will now, officially, be in emotional turmoil until the next book comes out, thank you very much. XD
Recommended to lovers of scifi and dystopians.
Content Advisory:
This book is YA scifi and appropriate for teens. It should be noted that some things toward the end get a bit intense, though, so please read the violence section if you, or your teen can be sensitive toward such things. I would say 16+ is the best age since I personally would have been sensitive to some of the violence here when I was under 16.
Language:
None. There are made-up words that are used as slurs against powered people. These fictional words have no relation to real life slurs.
Violence/Scariness:
Ryleigh's brother gets killed in an explosion. Mention of his bloodied body on the ground.
Someone's power-controlling arm band starts to give him a nose bleed because he's trying to use his powers around it.
It's stated that there’s a kill switch in the armbands of powered people, but it doesn’t get used in this story.
Ryleigh recalls the first time she met Knox when they were younger and found him beating up another kid. Description of punching and some mentions of blood on knuckles and faces.
Someone gets sprayed in the eyes with acid. The injury isn’t described, but it’s clear the person is in pain and they end up in the hospital and blinded. Someone else’s back gets sprayed with acid when he protects a girl from getting sprayed. It’s clear that it’s painful, but the person recovers.
It's revealed that sometimes the authorities secretly execute people for one reason or another. Ryleigh witnesses a girl get shot with bullets after the girl's legs get illegally healed by a powered person. The death is moderately described, with brief mention of the sight of blood on a wall after the fact. Mention that the girl’s body gets callously thrown over the dome wall to dispose of it.
Many of the law enforcement training simulations (and some soldier training simulations) that Ryleigh and friends must experience during their studies are quite violent. The computer stimulates senses, including pain, so that the experience looks and feels real. Fake simulation characters die, sometimes. (Never extreme, but sometimes blood gets mentioned briefly.) If one of the trainees gets hit, the simulation makes it look and feel like they’re really injured. There are some descriptions of pain, and in one simulation, Knox is made to look like he’s bleeding a lot from his leg and torso.
A girl gets beaten up by a boy in an attempt to frame Knox and Ryleigh for it. The beating is not described. Knox and Ryleigh simply find the girl with a swollen and bloodied face and she tells them who did it. Knox later gets attacked and beaten as well, though this is also not described.
Someone gets (non-fatally) shot by a laser weapon at one point. Pain is described and the person ends up in the hospital.
Toward the end, things get a bit more violent. Someone’s leg gets shot off during an attempted escape. (Blood described.) Two people are shot in front of a crowd in a government execution (barely described) and then the shooter (who, if I understood correctly, was being mind-controlled) turns the gun on themselves (not described.)
January 20, 2026
For the Powered inside the Dome, life isn’t real. It may be designed to look exactly like earth, but it’s a man-made replication of everything good and beautiful. Every day, you live beneath a false sun. Every night, you sleep beneath false stars.
Then the day comes to break the centuries-old division between the Powered inside the Dome and the Normal citizens outside it. Project Integration, the plan is called, and hacker Ryleigh Stevens steps to the front to make sure that it succeeds. But only the first step, that is.
Ryleigh wants the Powered to live among Normals but not as equals. Especially not when her brother was murdered by a Powered, the very Powered she is forced to work alongside.
(See the end of the article for a complete listing of Noteworthy Elements as well as an age recommendation for the book.)
Beneath False Stars combines themes of anger, revenge, and control into this powerful, dystopian-meets-Superhero novel. As Ryleigh is forced to confront lies that have been always taught as truths, she comes to realize that sometimes the greatest dangers lie among the things you trust most.
And maybe it’s not just the Powered who live beneath false stars.
When reading this story, I instantly fell in love with Ryleigh’s character development, seamlessly shown through her conflicted anger and grief over her brother’s murder while also trying to help Project Integration succeed. To stop the Powered from ever fully being free, Ryleigh must give them a small measure of freedom. Torn passions. Divided loyalties.
The character relationships that develop in the story completely captured my heart. Ryleigh is a heroine whose stoic facade has been hardened by grief and trials, but the moments where she breaks and allows others to support her are heart-wrenchingly beautiful.
Beneath False Stars is the first book in the Project Integration Series by S. D. Grimm. It was published in September 2025 and a release date has not yet been announced for upcoming books in the series.
For readers who love futuristic worlds, technologically-brilliant heroines, and governments that spin reality into lies… Beneath False Stars is a story you won’t want to miss.
At the time of this article, I have not read and reviewed the other books by S. D. Grimm, namely the Children of the Blood Moon series, also put out by Enclave Publishing. If this series satisfies my expectations, I hope to have the review posted within 2-3 months.
Noteworthy Elements in Beneath False Stars:
While there are no overly grotesque scenes, gratuitous content, or explicit profanity, the stakes of the story and romance subplot may best be appreciated by readers 15+.
Violence:
Ryleigh is in a simulated training session when one of her partners fires on a simulated robber. The robber’s death is described as “She shook like someone possessed and thudded to the ground. Blood dripped out of her ears. Her nose. Her eyes. I stood there, hand over my mouth. She was a simulated part of the training program, but her death didn’t seem any less gruesome”.
Sexual Tension:
Two girls are teasing each other about being inconspicuous and one girl remarks, “Your gorgeous skin and perfect curves are what generate all the attention”. A boy is described as “the old phrase tall, dark, and handsome didn’t do him justice”. One girl describes the same boy as “He’s a dream. I can’t look away” and Ryleigh denies that they are dating, saying “he’s not my boy”. When Ryleigh goes to check on a friend who’s been beaten up, she comments “I actually had noticed he was shirtless. And I prayed he didn’t notice the current flush in my cheeks”. A bully asks Ryleigh if her dad “was sleeping with a [Powered]” and if Ryleigh was “sleeping with them” too.
Profanity:
The words “heck” and “dang” are used once and twice, respectively. There are many made-up swear words in the book such as “product of a glitch”, “droids in an army”, “pain in my circuit board”, “Cyborg’s parts”, “holy droids”, and “holy motherboard”.
Read full review at https://theradicalreader.com/beneath-...
Then the day comes to break the centuries-old division between the Powered inside the Dome and the Normal citizens outside it. Project Integration, the plan is called, and hacker Ryleigh Stevens steps to the front to make sure that it succeeds. But only the first step, that is.
Ryleigh wants the Powered to live among Normals but not as equals. Especially not when her brother was murdered by a Powered, the very Powered she is forced to work alongside.
(See the end of the article for a complete listing of Noteworthy Elements as well as an age recommendation for the book.)
Beneath False Stars combines themes of anger, revenge, and control into this powerful, dystopian-meets-Superhero novel. As Ryleigh is forced to confront lies that have been always taught as truths, she comes to realize that sometimes the greatest dangers lie among the things you trust most.
And maybe it’s not just the Powered who live beneath false stars.
When reading this story, I instantly fell in love with Ryleigh’s character development, seamlessly shown through her conflicted anger and grief over her brother’s murder while also trying to help Project Integration succeed. To stop the Powered from ever fully being free, Ryleigh must give them a small measure of freedom. Torn passions. Divided loyalties.
The character relationships that develop in the story completely captured my heart. Ryleigh is a heroine whose stoic facade has been hardened by grief and trials, but the moments where she breaks and allows others to support her are heart-wrenchingly beautiful.
Beneath False Stars is the first book in the Project Integration Series by S. D. Grimm. It was published in September 2025 and a release date has not yet been announced for upcoming books in the series.
For readers who love futuristic worlds, technologically-brilliant heroines, and governments that spin reality into lies… Beneath False Stars is a story you won’t want to miss.
At the time of this article, I have not read and reviewed the other books by S. D. Grimm, namely the Children of the Blood Moon series, also put out by Enclave Publishing. If this series satisfies my expectations, I hope to have the review posted within 2-3 months.
Noteworthy Elements in Beneath False Stars:
While there are no overly grotesque scenes, gratuitous content, or explicit profanity, the stakes of the story and romance subplot may best be appreciated by readers 15+.
Violence:
Ryleigh is in a simulated training session when one of her partners fires on a simulated robber. The robber’s death is described as “She shook like someone possessed and thudded to the ground. Blood dripped out of her ears. Her nose. Her eyes. I stood there, hand over my mouth. She was a simulated part of the training program, but her death didn’t seem any less gruesome”.
Sexual Tension:
Two girls are teasing each other about being inconspicuous and one girl remarks, “Your gorgeous skin and perfect curves are what generate all the attention”. A boy is described as “the old phrase tall, dark, and handsome didn’t do him justice”. One girl describes the same boy as “He’s a dream. I can’t look away” and Ryleigh denies that they are dating, saying “he’s not my boy”. When Ryleigh goes to check on a friend who’s been beaten up, she comments “I actually had noticed he was shirtless. And I prayed he didn’t notice the current flush in my cheeks”. A bully asks Ryleigh if her dad “was sleeping with a [Powered]” and if Ryleigh was “sleeping with them” too.
Profanity:
The words “heck” and “dang” are used once and twice, respectively. There are many made-up swear words in the book such as “product of a glitch”, “droids in an army”, “pain in my circuit board”, “Cyborg’s parts”, “holy droids”, and “holy motherboard”.
Read full review at https://theradicalreader.com/beneath-...
September 20, 2025
So I’d practically given up on believing I could like books in the sci-fi genre. I’ve tried again and again and again, before realizing my issue with sci-fi books was a me thing and that I just didn’t connect to the genre well. And then I read this book…
And let me just say, it kept me on the edge of my seat. I LOVED the characters, they were so dynamic and interesting. I even liked the vibes and setting. The government system was very interesting.
The plot was fast-paced, the characters were realistic and compelling. I liked the main character (which is rare for me when I’m reading first person narration).
I say all of this to explain that this book surprised me, and if you’re also like me and generally not a fan of sci-fi, this may be a good book for tipping your toe in the water.
And let me just say, it kept me on the edge of my seat. I LOVED the characters, they were so dynamic and interesting. I even liked the vibes and setting. The government system was very interesting.
The plot was fast-paced, the characters were realistic and compelling. I liked the main character (which is rare for me when I’m reading first person narration).
I say all of this to explain that this book surprised me, and if you’re also like me and generally not a fan of sci-fi, this may be a good book for tipping your toe in the water.
October 10, 2025
Beneath False Stars by S.D. Grimm is a young adult sci-fi book that is the first book in this thrilling series. This is definitely not like a typical sci-fi story. What a first look into this series it was for me. I enjoyed it from the first chapter to the ending one. The world building is excellently done in this book, even that parts that happen as they say in the book “off world.” This book is along some of the same lines as one of the most recent books that I read and reviewed. Some of this book’s themes are guilt, forgiveness, betrayal and survival. Faith in Jesus is in there, but it is expertly weaved in speaking truth when it does not seem to be.
This book hits me a bit harder at times because the plot is mostly about being different and how people can react to your differences and how you can choose to react to their reactions. The differences discussed in this book are between human beings. There are those that are known as “naturals,” who are ordinary human beings with no powers, but they may have augmentations due to disabilities or something like that. The other humans are called “powered.” These individuals are genetically enhanced with all sorts of powers. Many of them have two or more abilities.
The “powered” used to control everything, but some of them got out of control and people feared all of them would eventually go overboard, so they were put into domes. They were put there for their own good, at least that is what they and the “naturals” are told. They are given armbands that attach to their arms to regulate their powers when they are not in the domes. Now they have been working to find a way so they can leave the domes permanently. In order to do that they are experimenting with integrating them into life outside of the dome in the “naturals’” district. Though it is deemed safe to do this, there are many who oppose it. Those that oppose it may go to any length to prevent it from happening.
Ryleigh and her brother live outside of the dome as naturals, but they have powered friends that live in the dome. Ryleigh’s father is one of the main people working on the integration. Ryleigh is naturally inquisitive, so she asks questions all the time. She is also a hacker by the way, so if she can’t get her answers the conventional way, she is not afraid to go prying around digital spaces for them. Her brother Sam is also a hacker, and he teaches her most of what she knows. One day Ryleigh and Sam are hanging out and a tragedy strikes. Ryleigh believes the cause of this tragedy is Knox, who is “powered” and one of Sam’s best friends. She believes this because of something she saw when they were much younger, his reputation as being hotheaded and because of what she remembers, or does she have what happened correctly?
Knox is accused of being the cause of the tragic event and sent off to the warzone as his punishment. The warzones are other domes on other worlds that are not controlled like on earth. He is there for three years and then something happens that he is sent back to earth. While back on earth he and Ryleigh interact, and she cannot believe they have let him back since he is so dangerous. When he gets into one of the classes that she has applied for she must face him on a daily basis, but will she be able to do it?
I can say this book had me crying so many times. There are some very emotional scenes and if you have experienced life as what others might classify as different you might cry a lot too. Just like this book sets out to show, different is not bad, but beautiful. All human beings are beautiful in their own way as God intends us to be as our Creator. I wholeheartedly recommend this book; these are the topics that need to be discussed. They need to be discussed for those that are treated poorly because of so-called differences and for those that have or are treating people poorly for so-called differences. Redemption in Christ is the only way for us all to be whole and fully alive! This book is an essential read whether you enjoy sci-fi or not.
I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion.
This book hits me a bit harder at times because the plot is mostly about being different and how people can react to your differences and how you can choose to react to their reactions. The differences discussed in this book are between human beings. There are those that are known as “naturals,” who are ordinary human beings with no powers, but they may have augmentations due to disabilities or something like that. The other humans are called “powered.” These individuals are genetically enhanced with all sorts of powers. Many of them have two or more abilities.
The “powered” used to control everything, but some of them got out of control and people feared all of them would eventually go overboard, so they were put into domes. They were put there for their own good, at least that is what they and the “naturals” are told. They are given armbands that attach to their arms to regulate their powers when they are not in the domes. Now they have been working to find a way so they can leave the domes permanently. In order to do that they are experimenting with integrating them into life outside of the dome in the “naturals’” district. Though it is deemed safe to do this, there are many who oppose it. Those that oppose it may go to any length to prevent it from happening.
Ryleigh and her brother live outside of the dome as naturals, but they have powered friends that live in the dome. Ryleigh’s father is one of the main people working on the integration. Ryleigh is naturally inquisitive, so she asks questions all the time. She is also a hacker by the way, so if she can’t get her answers the conventional way, she is not afraid to go prying around digital spaces for them. Her brother Sam is also a hacker, and he teaches her most of what she knows. One day Ryleigh and Sam are hanging out and a tragedy strikes. Ryleigh believes the cause of this tragedy is Knox, who is “powered” and one of Sam’s best friends. She believes this because of something she saw when they were much younger, his reputation as being hotheaded and because of what she remembers, or does she have what happened correctly?
Knox is accused of being the cause of the tragic event and sent off to the warzone as his punishment. The warzones are other domes on other worlds that are not controlled like on earth. He is there for three years and then something happens that he is sent back to earth. While back on earth he and Ryleigh interact, and she cannot believe they have let him back since he is so dangerous. When he gets into one of the classes that she has applied for she must face him on a daily basis, but will she be able to do it?
I can say this book had me crying so many times. There are some very emotional scenes and if you have experienced life as what others might classify as different you might cry a lot too. Just like this book sets out to show, different is not bad, but beautiful. All human beings are beautiful in their own way as God intends us to be as our Creator. I wholeheartedly recommend this book; these are the topics that need to be discussed. They need to be discussed for those that are treated poorly because of so-called differences and for those that have or are treating people poorly for so-called differences. Redemption in Christ is the only way for us all to be whole and fully alive! This book is an essential read whether you enjoy sci-fi or not.
I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion.
October 21, 2025
Welcome to a world where division is very evident. The author develops a place where technology has reached every facet of life. One character wants to hack into a system but danger is very near at all times. Ryleigh stood out to me because I could relate to what people call her flaws. She worries to the point of being obsessive, doesn’t trust others and cringes at criticism and let’s not forget anxiety . She wants to prove to everyone that she is fierce and can succeed at nothing. Do you relate to any of these?
I laughed at some of the references like “ancient pen” because in this world pens are obsolete. That really got my attention and it reminded me that we are not in Kansas anymore. I appreciate the author highlighting sign language in the story. Ryleigh’s brother depends on it to communicate even though it is not really used in this new world the author dropped us into. The author has taken us into a world where technology is powerful and those that are in control can be very dangerous if threatened.
When Ryleigh is able to hack into the system her and her brother race to the opening and slip in. Waiting for them is a world where transportation like slide boards are common. This reminded me of a very famous cartoon that I watched every time it came on. I wonder what it would be like to zoom around hovering above the ground. I know for sure my legs would appreciate the rest the board allows. Just think, no more walking but jetting across and feeling relaxed as you travel to your destinstion
Project Integration is now the upmost attention of Ryleigh. She is determined to get this project in place but faces the enemy along the way. I couldn’t believe how much I became engrossed in this book. With the creativity and life lessons the author captures the attention of science fiction fans.
What an exceptional story that illustrates forgiveness in a way that expresses true grace. As Ryleigh faces someone that she has never wanted to see again, the author shocks us with twists that keep readers on their toes. This is a great story with definite lessons in forgiveness, overcoming insecurity and treating each other without prejudice.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I laughed at some of the references like “ancient pen” because in this world pens are obsolete. That really got my attention and it reminded me that we are not in Kansas anymore. I appreciate the author highlighting sign language in the story. Ryleigh’s brother depends on it to communicate even though it is not really used in this new world the author dropped us into. The author has taken us into a world where technology is powerful and those that are in control can be very dangerous if threatened.
When Ryleigh is able to hack into the system her and her brother race to the opening and slip in. Waiting for them is a world where transportation like slide boards are common. This reminded me of a very famous cartoon that I watched every time it came on. I wonder what it would be like to zoom around hovering above the ground. I know for sure my legs would appreciate the rest the board allows. Just think, no more walking but jetting across and feeling relaxed as you travel to your destinstion
Project Integration is now the upmost attention of Ryleigh. She is determined to get this project in place but faces the enemy along the way. I couldn’t believe how much I became engrossed in this book. With the creativity and life lessons the author captures the attention of science fiction fans.
What an exceptional story that illustrates forgiveness in a way that expresses true grace. As Ryleigh faces someone that she has never wanted to see again, the author shocks us with twists that keep readers on their toes. This is a great story with definite lessons in forgiveness, overcoming insecurity and treating each other without prejudice.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
October 15, 2025
It is always interesting to me to see how science fiction authors take today’s technology and twist it into a futuristic story. Grimm makes her main character a hacker in a world where AI has been outlawed. I did not catch details as to why it was outlawed but that may be in a future book. She also references Tech Wars, without much detail, as the reason for the current state of the world.
In the world Grimm created there are two types of humans - “normals” and “powered” (those with special abilities). Ryleigh’s father is in charge of Project Integration - an initiative to integrate the normals and the powered. As the story progresses Ryleigh (a normal) discovers that life is a bit different than she imagined. In a world where the normals and the powered appear to be on opposite sides, Ryleigh has friends on both sides.
Zane (a powered) turns out to be a different person than Ryleigh originally thought. As they are partnered together as part of the Integration. They grow to trust each other.
There were some things that I didn’t quite understand in the story but they did not detract from my enjoyment of the story. In fact, I look forward to the next book in the Project Integration series. I can’t wait to read the next chapter in Ryleigh and Zane’s story.
Beneath False Stars would make a great addition to the fantasy section of a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for middle school and up.
I received a complimentary copy of Beneath False Stars. This is my honest review.
In the world Grimm created there are two types of humans - “normals” and “powered” (those with special abilities). Ryleigh’s father is in charge of Project Integration - an initiative to integrate the normals and the powered. As the story progresses Ryleigh (a normal) discovers that life is a bit different than she imagined. In a world where the normals and the powered appear to be on opposite sides, Ryleigh has friends on both sides.
Zane (a powered) turns out to be a different person than Ryleigh originally thought. As they are partnered together as part of the Integration. They grow to trust each other.
There were some things that I didn’t quite understand in the story but they did not detract from my enjoyment of the story. In fact, I look forward to the next book in the Project Integration series. I can’t wait to read the next chapter in Ryleigh and Zane’s story.
Beneath False Stars would make a great addition to the fantasy section of a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for middle school and up.
I received a complimentary copy of Beneath False Stars. This is my honest review.
November 16, 2025
Beneath False Stars is a super fun science fiction novel that you’re going to love! It’s also the first book in a series! And believe me when I say you’re going to want the whole series once you read this book. It’s one of those that leaves you hanging and wanting more!
This is for young adults, but we “older adults” love it too! Speaking from experience. That said, my young adults loved it as well, and it’s one that we will be adding the entire series to our shelf because I’m sure it will be read again and again.
The characters are amazing! The plot moves quickly. And you’re going to be sucked in so quickly that you won’t be able to come up for air until you read the last page.
I loved that the Christian faith is interwoven into the story. I would not say that it’s preachy, but it flows well and definitely leaves an impression. Perfect for the young adult crew.
Grab your copy. Read it. And then come back and let me know what you thought!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
This is for young adults, but we “older adults” love it too! Speaking from experience. That said, my young adults loved it as well, and it’s one that we will be adding the entire series to our shelf because I’m sure it will be read again and again.
The characters are amazing! The plot moves quickly. And you’re going to be sucked in so quickly that you won’t be able to come up for air until you read the last page.
I loved that the Christian faith is interwoven into the story. I would not say that it’s preachy, but it flows well and definitely leaves an impression. Perfect for the young adult crew.
Grab your copy. Read it. And then come back and let me know what you thought!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
November 8, 2025
Ok ok ok this was awesome! The story whirls you through a mix of high school friend groups, government surveillance, and raw emotion. The characters were the most well-rounded and fully developed I’ve read in a while, each one was likable (or hateable!) and felt real.
The writing had the ✨perfect✨ amount of dialogue and the story was really led through all the nuances, it kept me hooked from start to finish. Battling through the conflicting feelings and new discoveries alongside Ryleigh was torturous in the best way possible.
I did find it a bit odd that some random sci-fi terms were thrown around ( “holopad,” “comm,” and “droids”), which felt out of place. However, as the story unfolded and plot secrets were revealed, the rest of the setting fell into place. The Project Integration plot was so intriguing and it was what had me captivated more than anything, and I am dying to learn the whole truth in future books.
I highly recommend Beneath False Stars to anyone who loves a gripping plot, strong and layered emotions, or unique superpowers. Excuse me while I dash off to add the rest of S.D. Grimm’s books to my TBR.
The writing had the ✨perfect✨ amount of dialogue and the story was really led through all the nuances, it kept me hooked from start to finish. Battling through the conflicting feelings and new discoveries alongside Ryleigh was torturous in the best way possible.
I did find it a bit odd that some random sci-fi terms were thrown around ( “holopad,” “comm,” and “droids”), which felt out of place. However, as the story unfolded and plot secrets were revealed, the rest of the setting fell into place. The Project Integration plot was so intriguing and it was what had me captivated more than anything, and I am dying to learn the whole truth in future books.
I highly recommend Beneath False Stars to anyone who loves a gripping plot, strong and layered emotions, or unique superpowers. Excuse me while I dash off to add the rest of S.D. Grimm’s books to my TBR.
October 5, 2025
This book is perfect for fans of clean YA dystopian! A dystopian society where Powered and Normals are separated--and a girl forced to be partners with the boy who killed her brother. I really enjoyed the writing style. The flow was good, and I enjoyed the prose. S.D. Grimm did a great job of setting up the story. I felt connected to Ryleigh and Knox from the beginning. The plot twist at the beginning made me so sad. One of the main themes I noticed was Truth. Ryleigh has to come to grips with the fact that not everything is as it seems, and that you need to search for the truth at all costs. This is definitely an enemies to lovers book(one of my favorite tropes). There were so many twists and turns! I can't believe I have to wait for book two😭. The technology system in the world was really cool. It dealt with some cyborgs, so it will be interesting to see if the next book delves more into that side. One of my favorite book is Cinder by Marissa Meyers, which has cyborgs. Overall, a great clean read.
🌶️ Spice Rating: 0/10
🤬 Profanity: 0/10
🗡️Violence: 2/10
🤩My Rating: 10/10
🌶️ Spice Rating: 0/10
🤬 Profanity: 0/10
🗡️Violence: 2/10
🤩My Rating: 10/10
October 2, 2025
Oh, the ending of this book was unputdownable.
What a fun story. I'm a fan of books with puzzles, secret motives, AND superpowers! This book has all the trappings of a super powered teen adventure ready to take on the man. I rooted for Ryleigh through every twist and turn. I totally saw why she had trust issues.
And the sign language inclusion! My daughter is studying to be an interpreter, so we daily learn new signs in my house. This was such a great element to see used and used very cleverly. I can't wait to share BFS with my teenager.
This is a clean read, perfect for fans of super hero stories and dystopias.
Can't wait for book 2!
What a fun story. I'm a fan of books with puzzles, secret motives, AND superpowers! This book has all the trappings of a super powered teen adventure ready to take on the man. I rooted for Ryleigh through every twist and turn. I totally saw why she had trust issues.
And the sign language inclusion! My daughter is studying to be an interpreter, so we daily learn new signs in my house. This was such a great element to see used and used very cleverly. I can't wait to share BFS with my teenager.
This is a clean read, perfect for fans of super hero stories and dystopias.
Can't wait for book 2!
September 16, 2025
I was hooked from early on. Good world building. Enough was explained for the plot to make sense, but enough left in the dark to keep me curious. No issues, other than mild violence you’d expect in a “war/battle/political conflict.” Mild romance that was appropriate and based on a relationship, not on physical attraction. We need more books for YA that model healthy romantic relationships! Overall, it was great! I would definitely read the sequels and would recommend it to teens and up.
My one critique is that when I look at the cover, I see a white horse, not a girl in a cloak. 😆
My one critique is that when I look at the cover, I see a white horse, not a girl in a cloak. 😆
September 11, 2025
The world building was a little hodgepodge and chaotic, and more often than not I was confused. The story was interesting enough to keep me reading, and I enjoyed some of the characters. It was a bit predictable, I figured out the biggest revelation very early on. But it was a fun read! I will definitely read the rest of the series, it did get me invested.
October 6, 2025
I enjoyed this. It’s clean and ok for mid-older teens I think. Lots of speculation and thoughts about romantic feelings (all clean but I don’t need my young teens to awaken that early.) only one comment where a jerk kid is insulting people and accuses them of “sleeping with the simules.”
October 31, 2025
This is one of my favorite books I've read this year! Packed with twists and characters you'll root for, this is a story you won't want to put down. I greatly look forward to reading book 2.
November 10, 2025
So cool! My adrenaline may not return to earth any time soon!
January 8, 2026
Will update with a longer review…
A book with secret superpowers, a dangerous government, and quite a few plots woven throughout. I could hardly put this one down out of fear I’d miss something. So much happens! There is death, sorrow, bitterness, fighting, learning how to forgive, falling in love, the forging of new friendships, the loss of old friends, betrayal, and so much more. I’m excited to see where this story will continue in the next book. No spice.
A book with secret superpowers, a dangerous government, and quite a few plots woven throughout. I could hardly put this one down out of fear I’d miss something. So much happens! There is death, sorrow, bitterness, fighting, learning how to forgive, falling in love, the forging of new friendships, the loss of old friends, betrayal, and so much more. I’m excited to see where this story will continue in the next book. No spice.
September 10, 2025
This is YA science fiction at its finest. Creating an entire world is no easy feat (unless You’re God!), but Grimm’s unique world is fascinating and filled with life.
The characters are engaging, the system and function of this world is both believable and compelling. And the danger, risks, and challenges will leave you breathless.
It’s a world divided—normals and the powered. Those living outside of the Dome and those trapped within. Genetically engineered/modified/altered humans. The normal, those without powers or modifications, fear those with superpowers.
And the powered? Not too fond of the normals either. Or living in the cage they’ve been trapped in for a very long time.
But Project Integration is coming, and will hopefully unite everyone as one group. The gates will be opened and unity will strengthen the world and avoid another Tech War.
Sounds simple, right? Think segregation with superpowers. It’s never as it seems on the surface. More is at play than anyone suspects, and it’s difficult to tell the good guys from the bad.
Until you reach the end of the book—which is really the beginning. Puzzled? Read the book. You’ll be very glad you did!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited.
The characters are engaging, the system and function of this world is both believable and compelling. And the danger, risks, and challenges will leave you breathless.
It’s a world divided—normals and the powered. Those living outside of the Dome and those trapped within. Genetically engineered/modified/altered humans. The normal, those without powers or modifications, fear those with superpowers.
And the powered? Not too fond of the normals either. Or living in the cage they’ve been trapped in for a very long time.
But Project Integration is coming, and will hopefully unite everyone as one group. The gates will be opened and unity will strengthen the world and avoid another Tech War.
Sounds simple, right? Think segregation with superpowers. It’s never as it seems on the surface. More is at play than anyone suspects, and it’s difficult to tell the good guys from the bad.
Until you reach the end of the book—which is really the beginning. Puzzled? Read the book. You’ll be very glad you did!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited.
December 30, 2025
Oh, what a book. Besides a title that lets me make funny promo reels and comments about one reading beneath false stars being better than another, the intrigue, themes, characters, and world is just so good!
From the start, I found companionship with Ryleigh. Believe no one should be caged? Check. Believe firmly in justice? Check. Would do anything to protect my loved ones? Triple check. So when her brother was killed, I was right there with her. However, being outside the story did lend/give me a perspective that allowed me to see that not all was as it seemed with Knox, and I actually loved his character from the very beginning.
Through all the revelations of secrets, twists of trials, and the unfolding world-building, Grimm has built a compelling tale of seeking truth, fighting injustice, and fighting - and sacrificing - for life and liberty.
I absolutely cannot wait for book two, and will probably (torture myself with a) reread beforehand because it’s just. that. good.
I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
From the start, I found companionship with Ryleigh. Believe no one should be caged? Check. Believe firmly in justice? Check. Would do anything to protect my loved ones? Triple check. So when her brother was killed, I was right there with her. However, being outside the story did lend/give me a perspective that allowed me to see that not all was as it seemed with Knox, and I actually loved his character from the very beginning.
Through all the revelations of secrets, twists of trials, and the unfolding world-building, Grimm has built a compelling tale of seeking truth, fighting injustice, and fighting - and sacrificing - for life and liberty.
I absolutely cannot wait for book two, and will probably (torture myself with a) reread beforehand because it’s just. that. good.
I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
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