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“My name is Clo Sterling of the New Exodus humans. If anyone is out there, please respond.”
For five years, the people of colonist ship New Exodus have lived peacefully on their new home planet. But for eighteen-year-old Cloelia Sterling, one planet has never been enough. When her curiosity leads her to send a message into deep space, she discovers that life does indeed exist on other planets... and not all of it is friendly.
In a desperate move to save her people, Clo is launched on an interplanetary adventure in search of allies in the fight against the hostile Allorans. With help from her newfound crew, Clo must muster the courage to face the problem she created and return to her ravaged home world. Not all battles can be fought alone, but this one may prove too much even for a united crew.
Exodus is a lighthearted space adventure which will appeal to any fans of classic sci-fi and fantasy. If you like junker spaceships, mysterious aliens, and a heartwarming tale of found family, then this is a read for you! Download a preview or order your copy today!
For five years, the people of colonist ship New Exodus have lived peacefully on their new home planet. But for eighteen-year-old Cloelia Sterling, one planet has never been enough. When her curiosity leads her to send a message into deep space, she discovers that life does indeed exist on other planets... and not all of it is friendly.
In a desperate move to save her people, Clo is launched on an interplanetary adventure in search of allies in the fight against the hostile Allorans. With help from her newfound crew, Clo must muster the courage to face the problem she created and return to her ravaged home world. Not all battles can be fought alone, but this one may prove too much even for a united crew.
Exodus is a lighthearted space adventure which will appeal to any fans of classic sci-fi and fantasy. If you like junker spaceships, mysterious aliens, and a heartwarming tale of found family, then this is a read for you! Download a preview or order your copy today!
- GenresScience Fiction
Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2025
About the author
C.J. Hawthorne
4 books13 followersCJ Hawthorne is an author, college student, and lover of all things books, coffee, and Jesus. When not writing her next book, she can be found working on articles for a local newspaper or watching old sci-fi shows with her dad. She lives in Texas with her parents, two younger brothers, and a fluffy golden retriever named Angel.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 1, 2025
Oh my gosh, this book... Y'all, tell me why this has got to be one of my new comfort reads? 💜
It's the perfect sci-fi novel for those looking to get into the genre. The world-building is incredibly detailed & honestly feels so nostalgic; you can definitely tell this book was inspired by Star Wars. And the characters? They were all so authentic & relatable, especially the FMC Cloelia. She gives off such Peter Quill vibes, & I'M HERE FOR IT!!
Truly, I can't say enough good things about this book. CJ, if you're reading this, just know I'm going to be stalking your IG for updates on the rest of the series lol.
(Also, I want it put on record that I'm obsessed with Zielle, & I need her & Korbinian to have their happily ever after or I will cry)
It's the perfect sci-fi novel for those looking to get into the genre. The world-building is incredibly detailed & honestly feels so nostalgic; you can definitely tell this book was inspired by Star Wars. And the characters? They were all so authentic & relatable, especially the FMC Cloelia. She gives off such Peter Quill vibes, & I'M HERE FOR IT!!
Truly, I can't say enough good things about this book. CJ, if you're reading this, just know I'm going to be stalking your IG for updates on the rest of the series lol.
(Also, I want it put on record that I'm obsessed with Zielle, & I need her & Korbinian to have their happily ever after or I will cry)
June 4, 2025
What a brilliant book! I love the fact that they're already on a new world, and then the adventures begin. The different alien species are so cool and well thought out, and I ADORE the main characters. Clo and her adventurous spirit, Zander the sweet professional nerd—and KESHAR and LLORA the characters were so good. I absolutely can't WAIT for more from this author!!!
February 11, 2026
Loved the plot of this book. Space, aliens, & hunger games. I wish the scene that felt like the hunger games was longer, but there was a lot going on with the plot line which I loved and it kept me engaged. This was a really good start to this trilogy and I can’t wait to read the next one!
May 19, 2025
Spoiler Warning!
Exodus by CJ Hawthorne is a clean novel featuring a charming found-family, realistic and sympathetic characters, a strong plot, and a slow-burn romance that doesn’t drown the plot or the personalities of the individuals. I give it five stars. No complaints!
Cloelia, the main character, was a satisfying character! I loved how naturally and realistically her mistake happened. When she invited aliens to her planet, starting the conflict of the story, there was no fanfare, no corny grandeur, and no self-righteous entitlement to a greater purpose; she was just a young woman who in a stroke of excitement and tunnel-visioned haste when presented with the opportunity she had been waiting for, made a decision that would backfire. Frankly, I've made a mistake like that!
The Sterling family might have one of my favorite biological family dynamics in modern media. To no discredit of the found-family dynamic in the story of course, but this really stood out to me because biological families on modern media just always seem to hate each other for some reason. Instead of falling into tropes like dramatic disrespect toward parents or aggressive rivalry between siblings or corny “bro” and “sis” dynamics, there’s natural conflict that comes from differing personalities and experiences existing in one room!
Corro initially seemed like a throwaway romantic-interest who was just going to be inexplicably supportive of the spunky female main and quietly dragged into danger. Instead, the reader learns about his individual motivations and also witnesses his further suffering that encourages him to trek on with Cloelia. Hawthorne does a brilliant job of keeping these two characters from being swallowed up in impulsive chemistry and “romance” and giving them time to just be friends and, you know, fight a war. Corro gets to be his own character and entity and doesn’t suffer from obsession with the main!
The side characters' storylines were introduced very subtly and cleanly early on and their motivations developed very smoothly throughout the story. The culmination of their stories, especially Praia's, was very nicely done and Hawthorne used Cloelia's curiosity to the most to make important moments leading up to the completion of Praia's storyline seem unimportant or in the very least, just cool, fun alien facts.
The found family dynamic was precious. There wasn't immediate trust, but trust developed and formed through a very naturally flowing course of events and tragedies. The friendships and bonds that formed were wholesome and conformed to the individuality of the characters, making them feel real and human.
There are strong female and male role models, outstanding positive messages of forgiveness, redemption, and perseverance, no spice, no cursing (made up curse words) and a cute budding crush, as well as a wholesome childhood friends and lovers relationship between two of the other side characters.
I loved reading Exodus! I was able to just sit back and enjoy a story without worrying about inappropriate or disturbing content bombshells. I would recommend Exodus for someone as young as fourteen, as long as they aren't sensitive to average violence levels (no worse than the first Avengers movie).
Exodus by CJ Hawthorne is a clean novel featuring a charming found-family, realistic and sympathetic characters, a strong plot, and a slow-burn romance that doesn’t drown the plot or the personalities of the individuals. I give it five stars. No complaints!
Cloelia, the main character, was a satisfying character! I loved how naturally and realistically her mistake happened. When she invited aliens to her planet, starting the conflict of the story, there was no fanfare, no corny grandeur, and no self-righteous entitlement to a greater purpose; she was just a young woman who in a stroke of excitement and tunnel-visioned haste when presented with the opportunity she had been waiting for, made a decision that would backfire. Frankly, I've made a mistake like that!
The Sterling family might have one of my favorite biological family dynamics in modern media. To no discredit of the found-family dynamic in the story of course, but this really stood out to me because biological families on modern media just always seem to hate each other for some reason. Instead of falling into tropes like dramatic disrespect toward parents or aggressive rivalry between siblings or corny “bro” and “sis” dynamics, there’s natural conflict that comes from differing personalities and experiences existing in one room!
Corro initially seemed like a throwaway romantic-interest who was just going to be inexplicably supportive of the spunky female main and quietly dragged into danger. Instead, the reader learns about his individual motivations and also witnesses his further suffering that encourages him to trek on with Cloelia. Hawthorne does a brilliant job of keeping these two characters from being swallowed up in impulsive chemistry and “romance” and giving them time to just be friends and, you know, fight a war. Corro gets to be his own character and entity and doesn’t suffer from obsession with the main!
The side characters' storylines were introduced very subtly and cleanly early on and their motivations developed very smoothly throughout the story. The culmination of their stories, especially Praia's, was very nicely done and Hawthorne used Cloelia's curiosity to the most to make important moments leading up to the completion of Praia's storyline seem unimportant or in the very least, just cool, fun alien facts.
The found family dynamic was precious. There wasn't immediate trust, but trust developed and formed through a very naturally flowing course of events and tragedies. The friendships and bonds that formed were wholesome and conformed to the individuality of the characters, making them feel real and human.
There are strong female and male role models, outstanding positive messages of forgiveness, redemption, and perseverance, no spice, no cursing (made up curse words) and a cute budding crush, as well as a wholesome childhood friends and lovers relationship between two of the other side characters.
I loved reading Exodus! I was able to just sit back and enjoy a story without worrying about inappropriate or disturbing content bombshells. I would recommend Exodus for someone as young as fourteen, as long as they aren't sensitive to average violence levels (no worse than the first Avengers movie).
April 4, 2025
Spoiler free review!
When I tell you this book broke me out of a several year reading slump... IT'S THAT GOOD!! I got my arc copy and when I tell you I ate it up!!
Clo is such a wonderful protagonist. She's full of wanderlust, spunky, resourceful... she's everything the YA protagonists when I was growing up aspired to be.
Her accompanying cast are all so wonderful as well. Corro is an absolute golden retriever of a man... alien... whatever he is. Llora is the perfect blend of a Han Solo esque rogue and a Leia Organa esque leader. Keshar gives major dad energy. Beru gives oldest sister vibes and is honestly my favorite. Praia's implications are huge and I hope we see more of her in a future book!
The premise is such a fun twist on a classic trope. It's paced extremely well and naturally. Exodus sucked me in and let me out a slightly different person. There's so much to dig into and enjoy, and it's perfect for most ages!
If you're looking for your next Indie book, or something to get you out of a reading slump, you need to pick this up!!
When I tell you this book broke me out of a several year reading slump... IT'S THAT GOOD!! I got my arc copy and when I tell you I ate it up!!
Clo is such a wonderful protagonist. She's full of wanderlust, spunky, resourceful... she's everything the YA protagonists when I was growing up aspired to be.
Her accompanying cast are all so wonderful as well. Corro is an absolute golden retriever of a man... alien... whatever he is. Llora is the perfect blend of a Han Solo esque rogue and a Leia Organa esque leader. Keshar gives major dad energy. Beru gives oldest sister vibes and is honestly my favorite. Praia's implications are huge and I hope we see more of her in a future book!
The premise is such a fun twist on a classic trope. It's paced extremely well and naturally. Exodus sucked me in and let me out a slightly different person. There's so much to dig into and enjoy, and it's perfect for most ages!
If you're looking for your next Indie book, or something to get you out of a reading slump, you need to pick this up!!
April 4, 2025
What a fun read! Exodus follows the story of Cloelia Sterling and her journey to fix the alien invasion she accidentally called upon her new home planet. This is totally the book to pick up if you want to get into sci-fi (or are trying to get back into sci-fi, like me). Its quick pacing and exciting plot line made it extremely entertaining and bingeable.
I loved the whole cast of characters! Each character had a unique personality that lent a lot of variety to the story and really helped me to get invested in their lives. The found family aspect was super enjoyable and probably my favorite part of Exodus.
Some of the world building and plot points felt a little bit unrealistic to me, but I think that was mostly due to my personal preferences in books and what I’ve been reading recently.
Overall, I’m so glad I got the chance to be an ARC reader for Exodus. It was so refreshing and definitely pulled me back into my sci-fi era. I strongly encourage you to read this book if you want something that reminds you of Star Wars and is totally clean!
I loved the whole cast of characters! Each character had a unique personality that lent a lot of variety to the story and really helped me to get invested in their lives. The found family aspect was super enjoyable and probably my favorite part of Exodus.
Some of the world building and plot points felt a little bit unrealistic to me, but I think that was mostly due to my personal preferences in books and what I’ve been reading recently.
Overall, I’m so glad I got the chance to be an ARC reader for Exodus. It was so refreshing and definitely pulled me back into my sci-fi era. I strongly encourage you to read this book if you want something that reminds you of Star Wars and is totally clean!
March 10, 2026
The New Exodus humans have been living on their new home planet for 4 years now. Cloelia wonders about aliens and she sends a signal into deep space. Then someone answers... Events lead to impending conflict and she must solve the problem she unwittingly caused by finding allies. This leads her on an interplanetary adventure, where she joins a ragtag crew that becomes family, and sparks the beginning of a rebellion.
Clo literally crashes into the story and into our hearts. An inquisitive dreamer, she wants to meet aliens (I get it). There is an introspective feel to the 1st person POV as well as an adventurous outlook as we experience life on Promita. Our hero's claustrophobic tension of a world too small for her is conveyed admirably and makes future discoveries, everything she encounters, all the more wondrous.
I love how we feel in awe, but also comfortable in this corner of space. The author has done a wonderful job in building it, in a natural and relatable way, nourishing our imagination so it can soar. Delicious morsels, serving us little mysteries or clues of things to come, pepper the grabs-and-never-lets-you-go writing. We learn what we need alongside the protagonist. I feel the buildup of this story in my bones; that is how immersive and emotionally satisfying it was.
The synopsis says lighthearted, though I must say this tale is full-hearted, as in you feel everything. Gasp-worthy, including nailbiting action, jaw-dropping reveals and a wholesome hug of beautiful relationships. Totally cinematic. This is a journey of becoming a hero, of reaching new heights and your full potential as an individual.
Unfortunately, betrayal and greed are constant across the universe. Under a pretty exterior, you never know what ugliness may be hiding. Themes like equality and freedom are beautifully woven into this narrative. Exodus is comped to Star Wars Rebels x Treasure Planet. I would go further by also mentioning Falling Skies for the sense of urgency, fight against oppression and Resistance vibes. Powerful without shouting, carrying you like a friend instead, this story is not only a spark to a rebellion, but the ignition to a new beloved series.
Clo literally crashes into the story and into our hearts. An inquisitive dreamer, she wants to meet aliens (I get it). There is an introspective feel to the 1st person POV as well as an adventurous outlook as we experience life on Promita. Our hero's claustrophobic tension of a world too small for her is conveyed admirably and makes future discoveries, everything she encounters, all the more wondrous.
I love how we feel in awe, but also comfortable in this corner of space. The author has done a wonderful job in building it, in a natural and relatable way, nourishing our imagination so it can soar. Delicious morsels, serving us little mysteries or clues of things to come, pepper the grabs-and-never-lets-you-go writing. We learn what we need alongside the protagonist. I feel the buildup of this story in my bones; that is how immersive and emotionally satisfying it was.
The synopsis says lighthearted, though I must say this tale is full-hearted, as in you feel everything. Gasp-worthy, including nailbiting action, jaw-dropping reveals and a wholesome hug of beautiful relationships. Totally cinematic. This is a journey of becoming a hero, of reaching new heights and your full potential as an individual.
Unfortunately, betrayal and greed are constant across the universe. Under a pretty exterior, you never know what ugliness may be hiding. Themes like equality and freedom are beautifully woven into this narrative. Exodus is comped to Star Wars Rebels x Treasure Planet. I would go further by also mentioning Falling Skies for the sense of urgency, fight against oppression and Resistance vibes. Powerful without shouting, carrying you like a friend instead, this story is not only a spark to a rebellion, but the ignition to a new beloved series.
April 21, 2021
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: Exodus
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: C.J. Hawthorne
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
Exodus is the debut novel of the author C J Hawthorne. Story is set on the fictional planet Promita. Clo Sterling is the test pilot for the spaceship built by her friend Zander. But while testing the ship, it crashed. Later, Clo announced their presence to the Solar system. An alien spaceship landed in town square. Captain Dave Sterling was called to the site and Clo also went with her father. The human looking aliens told the Captain that they have received a transmission from Clo Sterling. Now, the aliens have had a contract with Promita people and they are forcing them to work on the mines. To save her planet from Allorans, Clo went into Zander's ship Calypso. Her journey was expected to be of 74 hours but the controls got dead and now her life is also in danger.
Will Clo get any help from anyone? Grab a copy of this book to find out yourself what gonna happen next in the story. I am glad to get my hands on this book. Since, I love reading stories about spaceship, technology, aliens, etc this book is an amazing read to me. Pace of the story is fast and I didn't feel bored anytime while reading it. Both Clo and Zander are my favorite characters. I enjoyed every bit of this story. Looking forward to read next book by the author.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: C.J. Hawthorne
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
Exodus is the debut novel of the author C J Hawthorne. Story is set on the fictional planet Promita. Clo Sterling is the test pilot for the spaceship built by her friend Zander. But while testing the ship, it crashed. Later, Clo announced their presence to the Solar system. An alien spaceship landed in town square. Captain Dave Sterling was called to the site and Clo also went with her father. The human looking aliens told the Captain that they have received a transmission from Clo Sterling. Now, the aliens have had a contract with Promita people and they are forcing them to work on the mines. To save her planet from Allorans, Clo went into Zander's ship Calypso. Her journey was expected to be of 74 hours but the controls got dead and now her life is also in danger.
Will Clo get any help from anyone? Grab a copy of this book to find out yourself what gonna happen next in the story. I am glad to get my hands on this book. Since, I love reading stories about spaceship, technology, aliens, etc this book is an amazing read to me. Pace of the story is fast and I didn't feel bored anytime while reading it. Both Clo and Zander are my favorite characters. I enjoyed every bit of this story. Looking forward to read next book by the author.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
April 21, 2021
Exodus
By
C.J. Hawthorne
My Review:
CJ Hawthorne has created a great fantasy world in her debut novel Exodus. There are different planets in Solar system and life is possible on few. Four years ago, Clo Sterling and few others left the Earth and they came to Promita. The planet is not much developed so they use the dormant ship New Exodus for various purposes like conducting meetings. One day by sending a signal, Clo put her people's life in danger. Now it's her responsibility to save her people.
Cover:
Cover of the book is amazing. The vibrant colors making it look more eye catchy.
Language:
Language of the book is simple to understand so even teenagers could enjoy this story.
World building:
I appreciate author's vivid imagination in creating this exciting sci-fi world.
This book is recommended for all those who love reading Science Fiction fantasy stories.
My perspective:
Characters are well written by author. Story has the power to hook the readers right from the first page. This story refreshed me. After a long time, I have got my hands on a wonderful teen sci-fi book.
My Rating: 5/5
By
C.J. Hawthorne
My Review:
CJ Hawthorne has created a great fantasy world in her debut novel Exodus. There are different planets in Solar system and life is possible on few. Four years ago, Clo Sterling and few others left the Earth and they came to Promita. The planet is not much developed so they use the dormant ship New Exodus for various purposes like conducting meetings. One day by sending a signal, Clo put her people's life in danger. Now it's her responsibility to save her people.
Cover:
Cover of the book is amazing. The vibrant colors making it look more eye catchy.
Language:
Language of the book is simple to understand so even teenagers could enjoy this story.
World building:
I appreciate author's vivid imagination in creating this exciting sci-fi world.
This book is recommended for all those who love reading Science Fiction fantasy stories.
My perspective:
Characters are well written by author. Story has the power to hook the readers right from the first page. This story refreshed me. After a long time, I have got my hands on a wonderful teen sci-fi book.
My Rating: 5/5
March 25, 2026
“You’re a galaxy, Clo. Bright and shining in ways I never thought possible. As long as you’re here, I’ll keep fighting till the stars go dark.”
I’ve got some fun comps here. Mostly I think of a young firefly. But here’s a fun spin, I also got nostalgia vibes for Princess and the Goblins with the alien-allorans vibes and politics.
I had a blast reading Exodus. The first in a new space opera series, we follow Cloelia (Clo) Sterling, almost graduate of New Exodus, the last people to evacuate a fallen earth and start a new world on Promita. But an accident quickly leads to fight and flight for their newfound freedom.
Exodus is fast-paced, very solidly YA, full of fun characters, species, adventures, and twists. I was speeding toward the planets on a crash-course keeping up with all the excitement, and I loved every minute of it.
I really enjoyed being in Clo’s head. She’s imperfect and average, a dreamer with her head in the stars and no Gifts, but you can’t help but love her and root for her.
I’m very excited to see how she and her crew and new love interest-almost take on the galaxy in the next installment.
I’ve got some fun comps here. Mostly I think of a young firefly. But here’s a fun spin, I also got nostalgia vibes for Princess and the Goblins with the alien-allorans vibes and politics.
I had a blast reading Exodus. The first in a new space opera series, we follow Cloelia (Clo) Sterling, almost graduate of New Exodus, the last people to evacuate a fallen earth and start a new world on Promita. But an accident quickly leads to fight and flight for their newfound freedom.
Exodus is fast-paced, very solidly YA, full of fun characters, species, adventures, and twists. I was speeding toward the planets on a crash-course keeping up with all the excitement, and I loved every minute of it.
I really enjoyed being in Clo’s head. She’s imperfect and average, a dreamer with her head in the stars and no Gifts, but you can’t help but love her and root for her.
I’m very excited to see how she and her crew and new love interest-almost take on the galaxy in the next installment.
April 22, 2021
Exodus written by the author CJ Hawthorne is a Science Fiction. It is the first installment in the New Covenant Trilogy. Main character of the story is Cloelia Sterling. She sent a signal to solar system:
“Hello? This is Clo Sterling of the New Exodus humans. If anyone’s out there, please respond.”
This put their planet at the risk. An alien spaceship landed on their planet. They offered them technology and resources to grow their settlement. In return, planet inhabitants have to mine the cliffs for Allorans. When Evan Baker lost his life while mining, Captain Sterling wanted to renegotiate the contract terms. But is it too late? What Clo will do to save her own people?
This is an amazing sci-fi story that I like to recommend to teenagers or adults. World building is interesting and involve different planets. Cover photo of the book is nice. Storyline is so intriguing that I couldn't put this book down once I started reading it. It's surely a riveting tale that sci-fi lovers couldn't afford to miss to read.
“Hello? This is Clo Sterling of the New Exodus humans. If anyone’s out there, please respond.”
This put their planet at the risk. An alien spaceship landed on their planet. They offered them technology and resources to grow their settlement. In return, planet inhabitants have to mine the cliffs for Allorans. When Evan Baker lost his life while mining, Captain Sterling wanted to renegotiate the contract terms. But is it too late? What Clo will do to save her own people?
This is an amazing sci-fi story that I like to recommend to teenagers or adults. World building is interesting and involve different planets. Cover photo of the book is nice. Storyline is so intriguing that I couldn't put this book down once I started reading it. It's surely a riveting tale that sci-fi lovers couldn't afford to miss to read.
April 1, 2025
I've read quite a bit of sci-fi, but this book is unlike any l've read before! From the very beginning of the story, I was drawn in to the story of Cloelia. It captured my attention and I really loved her character. She reminds me of my favorite Star Wars character in a way, while still being a unique individual. She's super relatable for me personally, because I love the idea of just being able to fly. Plus, I loved that there were winged beings! I am ever so slightly obsessed with the concept of wings. The plot twist had me going 😱, it was such a shock but at the same time it made perfect sense. It has quickly become a new favorite, and I look forward to the next book!!!
Also, I believe this is the second edition? Just as clarification!
*I received an ARC copy of this book. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own
Also, I believe this is the second edition? Just as clarification!
*I received an ARC copy of this book. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own
April 4, 2025
Looking for a new space-fantasy adventure? Look no further than Exodus, an upper YA sci-fi/fantasy debut by CJ Hawthorne! 🚀✨
If you like movies like Star Wars and Guardians of the Galaxy, prepare to be transported to a world that feels like home. With a galactic adventure, a sweet slow-burn romance, and a ragtag crew who could each easily deserve their own spinoff, Exodus is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The crew are some of the most compelling, three-dimensional, lovable characters I’ve read in ages, and they’re guaranteed to live rent-free in your head. Clo makes a naive mistake in the beginning, but she owns it and grows from it, which makes her a very lovable heroine. The settings are rich and engaging, the lore is intricate and detailed, and the backstory is so engaging that it could fill a prequel.
Trust me, you won’t regret taking a chance on Exodus!
If you like movies like Star Wars and Guardians of the Galaxy, prepare to be transported to a world that feels like home. With a galactic adventure, a sweet slow-burn romance, and a ragtag crew who could each easily deserve their own spinoff, Exodus is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The crew are some of the most compelling, three-dimensional, lovable characters I’ve read in ages, and they’re guaranteed to live rent-free in your head. Clo makes a naive mistake in the beginning, but she owns it and grows from it, which makes her a very lovable heroine. The settings are rich and engaging, the lore is intricate and detailed, and the backstory is so engaging that it could fill a prequel.
Trust me, you won’t regret taking a chance on Exodus!
March 27, 2021
Fun new ya science fiction adventure.
Cloelia Sterling is a great debut book character. She's fun, bright, and positive. This is in a way a coming-of-age story in space that is light on sweet romance and full of adventure, daring, and action.
I would recommend Exodus to teen and older readers who enjoy science fiction involving alien peoples and worlds, quirky characters, interesting world building and a bit of a heist feel. I gotta say, as a side note, Zander is probably my favorite character at this point with his light sarcasm, blunt sense of humor, and obsession with ship design. This is a great debut novel in a new trilogy.
Cloelia Sterling is a great debut book character. She's fun, bright, and positive. This is in a way a coming-of-age story in space that is light on sweet romance and full of adventure, daring, and action.
I would recommend Exodus to teen and older readers who enjoy science fiction involving alien peoples and worlds, quirky characters, interesting world building and a bit of a heist feel. I gotta say, as a side note, Zander is probably my favorite character at this point with his light sarcasm, blunt sense of humor, and obsession with ship design. This is a great debut novel in a new trilogy.
October 19, 2022
*Spoiler-Free Review*
The beginning of the book started really strongly with serious Skyward vibes. I was excited!
It wasn't long before I started noticing a few things that were consistent throughout.
Mostly, it was just the lack of smooth transition within the plot.
There were a lot of convenient dialogue or plot moments that made it seem less realistic than it could have been.
The dialogue that wasn't placed conveniently, flowed really well and felt natural!
The plot was a good one, I just don't think it flowed well. It wasn't smooth enough to keep me from feeling jarred every time a plot thing happened.
It was a fun read. I don't regret spending my time on it!
The beginning of the book started really strongly with serious Skyward vibes. I was excited!
It wasn't long before I started noticing a few things that were consistent throughout.
Mostly, it was just the lack of smooth transition within the plot.
There were a lot of convenient dialogue or plot moments that made it seem less realistic than it could have been.
The dialogue that wasn't placed conveniently, flowed really well and felt natural!
The plot was a good one, I just don't think it flowed well. It wasn't smooth enough to keep me from feeling jarred every time a plot thing happened.
It was a fun read. I don't regret spending my time on it!
December 7, 2023
This was a fun, space-y sci-fi adventure! I had a little trouble sometimes with keeping all of the planets and races clear, and took a little bit to grow attached to the characters, but as the story progressed I was rooting for all of our heroes! I loved the found family aspects, how the characters grew, and the hints of sweet romance. I especially enjoyed the last leg of the adventure, and the ending! I look forward to what is in store for Clo next! I would recommend Exodus to any YA readers who enjoy space adventures.
May 26, 2025
Exodus is a YA space-fantasy that is surprisingly cozy despite its high stakes! I would consider this a fast paced comfort read with imaginative worldbuilding and unexpected twists. I look forward to seeing our slow burn (no spice) romances further develop and see what fates await the found family you come to love over the course of this book.
Pick up Exodus and give C.J. a follow to support a lovely indie author today ❤️
Pick up Exodus and give C.J. a follow to support a lovely indie author today ❤️
March 12, 2026
I really enjoyed the world building. There were many different aliens in the system, and the "world" felt big, like there's so much left to explore.
I also really liked Cloelia. She wasn't perfect, but she did a lot of learning and truly cared about her companions. She wasn't magically talented at everything, but she had so much heart and curiosity I had to root for her. Looking forward to the next book!
I also really liked Cloelia. She wasn't perfect, but she did a lot of learning and truly cared about her companions. She wasn't magically talented at everything, but she had so much heart and curiosity I had to root for her. Looking forward to the next book!
March 23, 2026
“All we can do is hope, and let hope drive our battle.”
What a marvelous fast-paced science fantasy story! I loved the worldbuilding of Exodus, as well as the determination of Clo to save her people, despite being worlds away from them. If you enjoy science fantasy akin to Suspended in the Stars by E.A. Hendryx and found family elements similar to Brigitte Cromey’s Aftermath trilogy, be sure to check out this book!
What a marvelous fast-paced science fantasy story! I loved the worldbuilding of Exodus, as well as the determination of Clo to save her people, despite being worlds away from them. If you enjoy science fantasy akin to Suspended in the Stars by E.A. Hendryx and found family elements similar to Brigitte Cromey’s Aftermath trilogy, be sure to check out this book!
February 18, 2026
amazing book by an indie author!! If you like adventure, rag tag teams, realistic character development, and fun space operas, you will love this read. It has aliens, battles, and a hint of romance. Sounds like your thing? Go check out Exodus! 4.5⭐️ (rounded up)
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