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Daedalus
In the gripping continuation of the Nabukko Trilogy, Eff and her allies face perilous challenges as they attempt to uncover the truth. With the threat of Obliviation and a camp killer on the loose, every discovery leads to more questions.
Eff faces accusations from the camp’s leaders, particularly Nahova, who suspects her involvement in multiple murders. But when Merula reveals new information, Eff and her allies must deal with the growing turmoil and unrest in Nabukko.
In an effort to search for answers, Eff and Keir lead an expedition to the northern mountains. While Eff struggles with her memory loss and her recurring nightmares, the scavenge team must deal with the many challenges of an alien wilderness, including dangerous creatures and harsh weather, as they search for clues about the Obliviation and their mysterious circumstances.
Eff faces accusations from the camp’s leaders, particularly Nahova, who suspects her involvement in multiple murders. But when Merula reveals new information, Eff and her allies must deal with the growing turmoil and unrest in Nabukko.
In an effort to search for answers, Eff and Keir lead an expedition to the northern mountains. While Eff struggles with her memory loss and her recurring nightmares, the scavenge team must deal with the many challenges of an alien wilderness, including dangerous creatures and harsh weather, as they search for clues about the Obliviation and their mysterious circumstances.
482 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2025
11 people want to read
About the author
K.R. Gadeken
4 books27 followersK.R. Gadeken was born and raised in Northern Colorado, where she found a love for the mountain wilderness and exploration at an early age. She traveled around the world before returning to Colorado to earn a Bachelor’s in Astronomy. She later moved to Tennessee with her partner and earned a Master’s in Geography. As an author, she uses her career as an excuse to read far too many books. She is the author of the Nabukko Trilogy, and you can visit her online at krgadeken dot com and on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 20, 2025
Daedalus by K. R. Gadeken took everything I loved about Nabukko and made it even better. Nabukko was definitely one of my top favourites last year. The world-building, the slow-burn mystery, the character depth—it had me hooked. Daedalus picks up right where things left off, and this time—yes!—the stakes are higher. The clues and twists are laid out so well; they keep you guessing without giving too much away. And we finally get more of that Eff and Keir dynamic I was hoping for, which was really nice.
I also have to say I loved how the sci-fi, suspense and romance were so effortlessly balanced. It kept me fully invested in both the plot and the characters. And that ending—of course—it left me desperate for book three. I need answers.
Big thanks to BookSirens and K.R. Gadeken for the ARC. I received it for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. This series is smart, gripping, and only gets better.
I also have to say I loved how the sci-fi, suspense and romance were so effortlessly balanced. It kept me fully invested in both the plot and the characters. And that ending—of course—it left me desperate for book three. I need answers.
Big thanks to BookSirens and K.R. Gadeken for the ARC. I received it for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. This series is smart, gripping, and only gets better.
May 6, 2025
The first part left me with some reservations: I liked the world-building and the mystery, but the pacing felt off, with about half the page count devoted just to introducing people and their bickering with no real plot development. I mention this only to say that this one was much better in that regard! I was really invested and didn't want to leave the text for months :)
It picks up right where "Nabukko" left off, with the mysterious murders continuing to plague the camp, the crew falling into disarray, and Eff joining an exploratory mission to look for more artifacts in hopes of understanding their predicament (memory loss and being stranded on the unknown planet), as they have reason to believe that the time they have is ticking away.
There's a lot more going on here, and the stakes are much higher. That ending! - I am really looking forward to the concluding part, because I am curious how it will all turn out. And I still want to see if my initial hunch about one of the underlying mysteries that I had 10-15% into the first book is correct: we still don't know, but it looks like this part brought more evidence in its favor.
I still think the books (this one just like the previous) would benefit from being more concise. There are ways to convey all the same plot and relationship developments without some of the same repeated discussions. Keep in mind that these parts are not like separate novels in a cycle with their separate arcs, but more like parts of a longer novel with a single arc, each ending on a cliffhanger like a 19th century newspaper installment novel, making sure the reader wants to get to the next one.
I am grateful to the author for the review copy. The opinion above is my own.
It picks up right where "Nabukko" left off, with the mysterious murders continuing to plague the camp, the crew falling into disarray, and Eff joining an exploratory mission to look for more artifacts in hopes of understanding their predicament (memory loss and being stranded on the unknown planet), as they have reason to believe that the time they have is ticking away.
There's a lot more going on here, and the stakes are much higher. That ending! - I am really looking forward to the concluding part, because I am curious how it will all turn out. And I still want to see if my initial hunch about one of the underlying mysteries that I had 10-15% into the first book is correct: we still don't know, but it looks like this part brought more evidence in its favor.
I still think the books (this one just like the previous) would benefit from being more concise. There are ways to convey all the same plot and relationship developments without some of the same repeated discussions. Keep in mind that these parts are not like separate novels in a cycle with their separate arcs, but more like parts of a longer novel with a single arc, each ending on a cliffhanger like a 19th century newspaper installment novel, making sure the reader wants to get to the next one.
I am grateful to the author for the review copy. The opinion above is my own.
September 5, 2025
Daedalus: The Nabukko Trilogy Book 2 is a powerful continuation of the series, turning the “middle book” into a story that feels anything but transitional. Eff’s journey north is a blend of survival, mystery, and deep psychological struggle. Between accusations of murder, the creeping threat of Obliviation, and the harsh wilderness filled with strange creatures, every chapter carries weight and tension. Daedalus stands out for its balance between action and emotion. Eff’s doubts, loyalties, and fragile connections with others give the book a strong emotional core, while the unfolding mysteries and hidden truths keep the suspense razor-sharp. Gadeken writes with precision, ensuring that every revelation complicates matters further and every choice carries real consequences. For fans of science fiction that values both intrigue and character depth, this sequel does not disappoint. It raises the stakes, expands the world, and leaves you eager for the final installment. Daedalus is both thrilling and thought-provoking—a must-read continuation of the Nabukko Trilogy.
December 23, 2025
Satisfying and Enjoyable
I read Daedalus (The Nabukko Trilogy Book 2) and I liked as an extension of first book which was also great. The pace feels tighter and the danger feels closer. I liked the plot that evolves. I followed Eff as she gets blamed for murders in the camp, and I felt the pressure building as trust breaks down and everyone is under stress. I appreciated how the story keeps adding questions instead of giving easy answers, especially around Obliviation and Eff’s missing memories.
I also enjoyed the expedition into the northern mountains. The wilderness feels harsh and strange, and the threats are not just people but weather, creatures, and fear. The action is strong, but what kept me reading was Eff’s doubt and determination. I thought the characters felt real under stress, and the chapters end in ways that pushed me to keep going. By the end, I felt like this book did its job well: it expanded the world, raised the stakes, and set up the next installment in a satisfying way.
I read Daedalus (The Nabukko Trilogy Book 2) and I liked as an extension of first book which was also great. The pace feels tighter and the danger feels closer. I liked the plot that evolves. I followed Eff as she gets blamed for murders in the camp, and I felt the pressure building as trust breaks down and everyone is under stress. I appreciated how the story keeps adding questions instead of giving easy answers, especially around Obliviation and Eff’s missing memories.
I also enjoyed the expedition into the northern mountains. The wilderness feels harsh and strange, and the threats are not just people but weather, creatures, and fear. The action is strong, but what kept me reading was Eff’s doubt and determination. I thought the characters felt real under stress, and the chapters end in ways that pushed me to keep going. By the end, I felt like this book did its job well: it expanded the world, raised the stakes, and set up the next installment in a satisfying way.
July 21, 2025
After reading and enjoying the first book in this YA sci-fi series, I'm pleased to have gotten my hands on the second book!
Eff, the same first-person POV protagonist from the first book, continues to be an interesting story-teller, in addition to being rather mysterious herself. This second book explores the alien world a bit more, but also delves more into the mysterious background of the "Nabukko" crew and why they're in the situation they're in. Some questions are answered, but even more questions come up along the way.
This second installment doesn't end on such an abrupt cliff-hanger as the first book did (thankfully!), but I have theories about certain characters' secrets, including Eff's background, and I'm very much looking forward to finding out how right (or wrong!) I was when the final book in the trilogy comes out!
I received an e-ARC from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Eff, the same first-person POV protagonist from the first book, continues to be an interesting story-teller, in addition to being rather mysterious herself. This second book explores the alien world a bit more, but also delves more into the mysterious background of the "Nabukko" crew and why they're in the situation they're in. Some questions are answered, but even more questions come up along the way.
This second installment doesn't end on such an abrupt cliff-hanger as the first book did (thankfully!), but I have theories about certain characters' secrets, including Eff's background, and I'm very much looking forward to finding out how right (or wrong!) I was when the final book in the trilogy comes out!
I received an e-ARC from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 5, 2025
I loved this book more than the first one, Nabukko. The stakes are higher, the tension ratchets up, the mystery builds with new clues and newer mysteries, and the ending didn't make me throw the Kindle across the room (which was a good thing in book 1). The characters are more lovable and some are more despicable. There was less of the teen socializing and more of the relationship between Eff and Keir. The politics get hot. A second book is often not as good as its original, but this defies that rule by a long shot. I hope Gadeken is making this a 5-book or more series, because I can't imagine how only one more book will tie things together, and I'll be sad when it's over.
I received an advance review copy for free because I couldn't wait another minute, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free because I couldn't wait another minute, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
May 8, 2025
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for the free review copy of Daedalus. All opinions are completely my own.
Daedalus is the 2nd book in The Nabukko Trilogy and picks up pretty close to where the first book left off. I think I actually liked Daedalus even more than the first book. It continues the feeling of mystery, with a lot of questions still not answered by the end of the book. I definitely have some theories though, and there’s a lot of clues along the way, so it kept my interest well. This book adds in an element of adventure that I really enjoyed. There was plenty of action and drama leaving me on the edge of my seat. It made the book really hard to put down. I also enjoyed the relationships between characters. I’m looking forward to reading the next book and a bit bummed I’ll have to wait a while to see what happens next.
Daedalus is the 2nd book in The Nabukko Trilogy and picks up pretty close to where the first book left off. I think I actually liked Daedalus even more than the first book. It continues the feeling of mystery, with a lot of questions still not answered by the end of the book. I definitely have some theories though, and there’s a lot of clues along the way, so it kept my interest well. This book adds in an element of adventure that I really enjoyed. There was plenty of action and drama leaving me on the edge of my seat. It made the book really hard to put down. I also enjoyed the relationships between characters. I’m looking forward to reading the next book and a bit bummed I’ll have to wait a while to see what happens next.
July 12, 2025
In my experience, the second book in a trilogy is, more often than not, the least interesting of the 3. The first book has the excitement of first discovery and the last book gives us the big reveal and the climax. The second book often ends up being the road between A and B. I will say that I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case for Daedalus. I think this book series has opened my eyes to indie fiction.
Gadeken does a great job extending the sense of discovery from book one without using cheap tricks. All I'll say is that the plot thickens and gets even more interesting. Characters continue to be well thought out and the story flows in a way that is both natural and exciting. Overall, a thoroughly good read.
(On a side note, my partner just started reading my copy of Nabukko and is completely engrossed)
Gadeken does a great job extending the sense of discovery from book one without using cheap tricks. All I'll say is that the plot thickens and gets even more interesting. Characters continue to be well thought out and the story flows in a way that is both natural and exciting. Overall, a thoroughly good read.
(On a side note, my partner just started reading my copy of Nabukko and is completely engrossed)
September 6, 2025
Gripping Saga of Survival and Secrets...
K.R. Gadeken's Daedalus turns what could have been a quiet middle act into the most exciting part of the trilogy so far. The tension is high—accusations, betrayals, and the pain of forgetting—and the wilderness itself feels like another character, cruel and always watching. The story is driven by Eff's doubts and determination, and Keir's presence keeps the balance between heart and survival.
What stands out the most is how Gadeken mixes mystery with intense emotions. There is no waste; every clue makes things worse, and every choice has consequences. The result is a sequel that not only fills in the gaps but also raises the stakes, daring you to guess—and second-guess—what's lurking in the shadows. Thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it. Great read. Five stars all the way.
K.R. Gadeken's Daedalus turns what could have been a quiet middle act into the most exciting part of the trilogy so far. The tension is high—accusations, betrayals, and the pain of forgetting—and the wilderness itself feels like another character, cruel and always watching. The story is driven by Eff's doubts and determination, and Keir's presence keeps the balance between heart and survival.
What stands out the most is how Gadeken mixes mystery with intense emotions. There is no waste; every clue makes things worse, and every choice has consequences. The result is a sequel that not only fills in the gaps but also raises the stakes, daring you to guess—and second-guess—what's lurking in the shadows. Thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it. Great read. Five stars all the way.
June 14, 2025
❤️🪐🤗Excellent sequel
Eff thought back to the Nabukko ship that had brought them all to this planet, them but not her.
And she still didn't know why...
As the young blonde woman opened her cell, Eff looked at the tray brought in because she was so hungry...
-----
After her friend's betrayal, Eff found herself in an impossible situation.
A super-captivating second volume, very mysterious, with a few reminders, which takes the reader on the adventures of the mysterious Eff.
Who?
How?
Why?
I personally love the atmosphere and tone of the novel, as well as the main character, Eff!
Can't wait for the sequel in volume 3!
I highly recommend!
PS : beautiful book cover !
Eff thought back to the Nabukko ship that had brought them all to this planet, them but not her.
And she still didn't know why...
As the young blonde woman opened her cell, Eff looked at the tray brought in because she was so hungry...
-----
After her friend's betrayal, Eff found herself in an impossible situation.
A super-captivating second volume, very mysterious, with a few reminders, which takes the reader on the adventures of the mysterious Eff.
Who?
How?
Why?
I personally love the atmosphere and tone of the novel, as well as the main character, Eff!
Can't wait for the sequel in volume 3!
I highly recommend!
PS : beautiful book cover !
December 26, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC.
This is a great second entry in this trilogy. Very much like the first novel, when you start to feel like things are making sense, they all fall apart, and you feel like you know less when the book ends than when you began. I continue to like where this story is going.
There is a little more depth added to characters, while still falling within what I consider to be a YA writing style and YA dialogue. There is enough science understood to make the concepts believable without having to over-explain and make it complicated. A very balanced, enjoyable to read story that keeps you on the hook. I can’t wait to see how this trilogy ends and what answers we have in the final book.
This is a great second entry in this trilogy. Very much like the first novel, when you start to feel like things are making sense, they all fall apart, and you feel like you know less when the book ends than when you began. I continue to like where this story is going.
There is a little more depth added to characters, while still falling within what I consider to be a YA writing style and YA dialogue. There is enough science understood to make the concepts believable without having to over-explain and make it complicated. A very balanced, enjoyable to read story that keeps you on the hook. I can’t wait to see how this trilogy ends and what answers we have in the final book.
May 20, 2025
Daedalus.
The writing is so immersing - it makes you feel - the punch, the confusion, the crowd turning violent. And the plot? So well-laid, I almost guessed Merula's death. (almost!)
The inter-character relationships are crafted beautifully.
Why does the core have Eff's symbol?
Who's causing the Obligation?
Why is Nahova against Eff?
Does Beckle work for Nahova?
So. Many. Questions….
And… How can I forget that subtle hint:
"I'd never asked which side of the Kuiplite Uprising Beckle's parents had been on."
(Felicity is a perfect name for Eff by the way!)
P.S - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The writing is so immersing - it makes you feel - the punch, the confusion, the crowd turning violent. And the plot? So well-laid, I almost guessed Merula's death. (almost!)
The inter-character relationships are crafted beautifully.
Why does the core have Eff's symbol?
Who's causing the Obligation?
Why is Nahova against Eff?
Does Beckle work for Nahova?
So. Many. Questions….
And… How can I forget that subtle hint:
"I'd never asked which side of the Kuiplite Uprising Beckle's parents had been on."
(Felicity is a perfect name for Eff by the way!)
P.S - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 25, 2025
Daedalus by K. R. Gadeken continues Eff’s story with more mystery, survival, and a bigger world. Eff’s voice is strong and real, and the setting feels fresh and creative. There are some exciting moments and interesting new ideas. But the story can be slow again just like in Nabukko, with too much thinking and repeating. Some scenes feel too long. Still, it’s a solid sci-fi story with heart and good character growth.
May 11, 2025
This book does a fantastic job of leaving clues and breadcrumb trails to follow without giving everything away at once. The characters are engaging and make we want to know more about each of them individually in addition to their relationship with Eff. I love that the romance element is there, but it doesn’t overwhelm the story. Overall, the story balances the sci-fi with the mystery and creates a plot that I actually WANT to follow. I can't wait for the conclusion!
May 21, 2025
I did enjoy this part of the adventure. A good continuation of the story line, I found it slightly less enjoyable than the first book but still a very good read. The levels of angst are higher in this book & for me it made it slightly less enjoyable. Saying that I am still looking forward to reading the next episode as I do want to see what happens next, a good fun read!
June 4, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this follow up to Nabukko. It kept me entertained and guessing how things would develop. I liked the character development, and the plotting - loved the worldbuilding and the mysteries. Can't wait to see how the trilogy plays out! Definite recommendation!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 11, 2025
Great sequel, I’m excited to see what’s next!
December 11, 2025
Great second book in the trilogy! Already can't wait for book 3. Great alien creatures and heady mystery. Nice secondary characters, and love the dynamic between Keir and Eff. Lots of "and the plot thickens" moments.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews