What do you think?
Rate this book
Against the Red Sky: Mission X
Enzo Cruz knows sacrifice. After a failed mission to assassinate the billionaire behind the Mars colony—and the loss of his grandfather—he’s ready for redemption. His new target? The Mars Ascendance Academy shuttle. His infiltrate, sabotage, escape.
As the youngest operative in Terra Primera, Enzo’s talent with explosives could tip the balance in Earth’s fight for survival. But inside the Academy, nothing goes to plan—especially when Maddie Westing enters the picture.
Maddie has dreamed of joining her mother on Mars since she was ten. Now she has her one of thirty elite students in the Academy’s inaugural class. But being the niece of the colony’s powerful founder comes with strings—and shadows.
When Enzo’s mission collides with Maddie’s quest for truth, both teens are thrust into a conspiracy that threatens Earth and Mars alike. Loyalties will be tested. Secrets will be exposed. And the greatest danger may not come from the skies—it may lie in their hearts.
In this heart-pounding YA thriller, survival means risking everything—including the people you thought you hated most.
For fans of The Hunger Games, Red Rising, and Aurora Rising—Against the Red Sky delivers explosive tension, star-crossed loyalty, and a high-stakes rebellion that could destroy two worlds.
As the youngest operative in Terra Primera, Enzo’s talent with explosives could tip the balance in Earth’s fight for survival. But inside the Academy, nothing goes to plan—especially when Maddie Westing enters the picture.
Maddie has dreamed of joining her mother on Mars since she was ten. Now she has her one of thirty elite students in the Academy’s inaugural class. But being the niece of the colony’s powerful founder comes with strings—and shadows.
When Enzo’s mission collides with Maddie’s quest for truth, both teens are thrust into a conspiracy that threatens Earth and Mars alike. Loyalties will be tested. Secrets will be exposed. And the greatest danger may not come from the skies—it may lie in their hearts.
In this heart-pounding YA thriller, survival means risking everything—including the people you thought you hated most.
For fans of The Hunger Games, Red Rising, and Aurora Rising—Against the Red Sky delivers explosive tension, star-crossed loyalty, and a high-stakes rebellion that could destroy two worlds.
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2025
2 people are currently reading
997 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Illarmo
5 books72 followersKristen Illarmo is a young adult, science fiction author driven to write stories with strong female characters in the backdrop of crumbling societies.
She proudly calls New Orleans home, a fact that may only change if the perfect beach town reveals itself. When she’s not toiling to improve efficiency in local government in her day job, she’s writing about dark possible futures and thinking about the importance of the choices we make.
The prequel to Without A World, Behind the Red Door, is available now at kristenillarmo.com.
Join her monthly newsletter for author updates and a chance to grab free books from new authors at kristenillarmo.com.
Keep in touch with Kristen via the web:
Website kristenillarmonbooks.com
Email kristen@kristenillarmo.com
IG: kristenillarmo
She proudly calls New Orleans home, a fact that may only change if the perfect beach town reveals itself. When she’s not toiling to improve efficiency in local government in her day job, she’s writing about dark possible futures and thinking about the importance of the choices we make.
The prequel to Without A World, Behind the Red Door, is available now at kristenillarmo.com.
Join her monthly newsletter for author updates and a chance to grab free books from new authors at kristenillarmo.com.
Keep in touch with Kristen via the web:
Website kristenillarmonbooks.com
Email kristen@kristenillarmo.com
IG: kristenillarmo
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Read
October 19, 2025DNF at 37%
I honestly really wanted to enjoy this book but I just wasn’t vibing with the writing style
I honestly really wanted to enjoy this book but I just wasn’t vibing with the writing style
July 1, 2025
This is a fun, YA, dual POV sci-fi adventure which explores loyalty, sacrifice, betrayals and a bit of romance and centres around our two main characters Maddie and Enzo.
Maddie’s uncle founded a Mars colony and she dreams of going to join her mum who lives there. Enzo is a young explosives expert who plans to destroy the shuttle that will take her there.
I really enjoyed this! It was entertaining, I liked the twists and turns that kept me guessing. I liked our main characters and the elements of romance although it wasn’t central to the story. It took me a minute to work out who our villain was but I got there in the end!
My only minor complaints was there were a few flashbacks and things that left me a little confused and I had to reread a few chapters although that could definitely be a me thing!
I also really wanted to know more about the mums story which hopefully will be in the next instalment!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Maddie’s uncle founded a Mars colony and she dreams of going to join her mum who lives there. Enzo is a young explosives expert who plans to destroy the shuttle that will take her there.
I really enjoyed this! It was entertaining, I liked the twists and turns that kept me guessing. I liked our main characters and the elements of romance although it wasn’t central to the story. It took me a minute to work out who our villain was but I got there in the end!
My only minor complaints was there were a few flashbacks and things that left me a little confused and I had to reread a few chapters although that could definitely be a me thing!
I also really wanted to know more about the mums story which hopefully will be in the next instalment!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2025
: ̗̀➜ ARC review [3'25⭐] | I love love LOVE the tense ambience the author achieves in this semi futuristic doomed society, and all the depth the political aspect has. I really liked the author's way of narrating since the start, of the situation both characters (double pov) are living and how she characterizes them.
Enzo caressed the soft satin lapels. It made more sense to him now, how people who lived this life would forget, or not even believe, the world was running out of water.
[Highlights below] (NO SPOILERS)
In Against the Red Sky we encounter Enzo, son of the leader of Terra Primera. They fight against the wealthy while they pollute the air and oceans and recollect the little potable water left on heart to pull their resources into colonizing Mars. Maddie is the niece of the man founder of said colony in Mars. She has dreamed for years of reuniting with her mother there, and now she's on her way to make her dream come true by entering the elite Academy’s inaugural class. Enzo didn't count on meeting Maddie, and Maddie hasn't had a clue who Enzo even is, or what he is doing in the Academy. His mission is simple. Infiltrate, sabotage, and escape.
Both mc and important side characters are introduced perfectly, as well as the critical point the hearth and society is on during the entire plot of the book. They leave an impressión and stay with you, and how everything develops makes the worldbuilding feel insanely rich.
Both of our mc’s povs, while separated, are intriguing and engage you to read more. Both feel real and mature when they can, but also like the teenagers they are, barely entering adulthood but having lived a life so hard on different ends of the spectrum.
And the whole novel is rich in facts and environmental-society criticism. That aspect is perfectly included in between all the fiction drama, without feeling heavy. I felt really happy reading such plot and criticisms in this age and era of society. I loved it.
But even with that insanely good start of a book, the first third is the best one for me. I feel a bit conflicted with the rest. During the entire book I enjoyed all the parts including the political drama, the action and tension on Enzo's part with reaching the Academy, his mission and his POV in general. Same with Maddie.
It is the point when they meet that changes things for me.
The atmospheric scenes and narrative for a moment made me forget this was a YA. Which shows at the moment of interaction between both of them. After nearly a third of the book reading about one or another separately (wich, i love how the author builded the book with a slow encounter of the two of them) it threw me off a little when they met for the first time and suddenly they are talking in such a teenage way and have such a basic way of thinking about the other. (I think the dialogue in general is what I struggle with the most during the book).
I like them as a couple in the general sense of the idea. Enemies on opposite sides of hearth’s fight for conservation and survival?? yes please.
But their relationship develops too fast. They know the other of one night and we already have mentions of not being able to stop looking at her, or how handsome he is. Almost instantly they were thrown into an attraction at junior level (it's a YA book). And so It hurts me a bit to say, but the romance in general was the worst part of the book. Every aspect and anything related to it.
Another thing that didn't make sense for me was how this supposed academy was so shallowly constructed for the plot. The MAJOR scenario during the great part of the book. We have insight of almost nothing there, no classes, professors (only one) or any, ANY, classmate except the 2 side characters with whom we construct our basic group of friends.
So, for me, it was a little of an ice bath watching it snowball into something okay-ish after nearly 100 pages of pure incredible narration, character introspection and world-building.
Don't get me wrong, I'm sure YA readers will love this, but sadly, i dont think it can be enjoyed that well in a vast range of ages.
I’m still curious about how the main plot develops (I KNEW THAT WAS GONNA BE THE END), and i think i might read the next parts, but this is what it is, and now I know.
: ̗̀➜Thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
—
When people pamper you and nice clothes appear on your doorstep, it's easy to put off the thought that earth is dying until later, until there's no more time.
—
Strange things make sense when you have too much money
—
So brainwashed, to think that abandoning Earth for a planet where it was easier to die than live was their best hope The wrong glass cracks up there, and it's all over.
—
There is no such thing as righteous justice.
There's only alive and dead. Here or not.
Enzo caressed the soft satin lapels. It made more sense to him now, how people who lived this life would forget, or not even believe, the world was running out of water.
[Highlights below] (NO SPOILERS)
In Against the Red Sky we encounter Enzo, son of the leader of Terra Primera. They fight against the wealthy while they pollute the air and oceans and recollect the little potable water left on heart to pull their resources into colonizing Mars. Maddie is the niece of the man founder of said colony in Mars. She has dreamed for years of reuniting with her mother there, and now she's on her way to make her dream come true by entering the elite Academy’s inaugural class. Enzo didn't count on meeting Maddie, and Maddie hasn't had a clue who Enzo even is, or what he is doing in the Academy. His mission is simple. Infiltrate, sabotage, and escape.
Both mc and important side characters are introduced perfectly, as well as the critical point the hearth and society is on during the entire plot of the book. They leave an impressión and stay with you, and how everything develops makes the worldbuilding feel insanely rich.
Both of our mc’s povs, while separated, are intriguing and engage you to read more. Both feel real and mature when they can, but also like the teenagers they are, barely entering adulthood but having lived a life so hard on different ends of the spectrum.
And the whole novel is rich in facts and environmental-society criticism. That aspect is perfectly included in between all the fiction drama, without feeling heavy. I felt really happy reading such plot and criticisms in this age and era of society. I loved it.
But even with that insanely good start of a book, the first third is the best one for me. I feel a bit conflicted with the rest. During the entire book I enjoyed all the parts including the political drama, the action and tension on Enzo's part with reaching the Academy, his mission and his POV in general. Same with Maddie.
It is the point when they meet that changes things for me.
The atmospheric scenes and narrative for a moment made me forget this was a YA. Which shows at the moment of interaction between both of them. After nearly a third of the book reading about one or another separately (wich, i love how the author builded the book with a slow encounter of the two of them) it threw me off a little when they met for the first time and suddenly they are talking in such a teenage way and have such a basic way of thinking about the other. (I think the dialogue in general is what I struggle with the most during the book).
I like them as a couple in the general sense of the idea. Enemies on opposite sides of hearth’s fight for conservation and survival?? yes please.
But their relationship develops too fast. They know the other of one night and we already have mentions of not being able to stop looking at her, or how handsome he is. Almost instantly they were thrown into an attraction at junior level (it's a YA book). And so It hurts me a bit to say, but the romance in general was the worst part of the book. Every aspect and anything related to it.
Another thing that didn't make sense for me was how this supposed academy was so shallowly constructed for the plot. The MAJOR scenario during the great part of the book. We have insight of almost nothing there, no classes, professors (only one) or any, ANY, classmate except the 2 side characters with whom we construct our basic group of friends.
So, for me, it was a little of an ice bath watching it snowball into something okay-ish after nearly 100 pages of pure incredible narration, character introspection and world-building.
Don't get me wrong, I'm sure YA readers will love this, but sadly, i dont think it can be enjoyed that well in a vast range of ages.
I’m still curious about how the main plot develops (I KNEW THAT WAS GONNA BE THE END), and i think i might read the next parts, but this is what it is, and now I know.
: ̗̀➜Thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
—
When people pamper you and nice clothes appear on your doorstep, it's easy to put off the thought that earth is dying until later, until there's no more time.
—
Strange things make sense when you have too much money
—
So brainwashed, to think that abandoning Earth for a planet where it was easier to die than live was their best hope The wrong glass cracks up there, and it's all over.
—
There is no such thing as righteous justice.
There's only alive and dead. Here or not.
December 2, 2025
3.75
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book.
To no fault of the author, I misinterpreted the blurb and thought that this book was mostly set on Mars. I was very excited to read a high octane Mars sci-fi, but was slightly disappointed when I realised it was entirely set on Earth, and more of a dystopian. I was not quite in the mood for a dystopian, and that probably took away some of my enjoyment. However, it was still a very enjoyable book.
While I did guess most of the plot twists, it was well plotted and written. It was a perfectly paced, very fast book with no waft (or dramatic plot holes) in site, of which I am very thankful for!
Maddie and Enzo weren’t the most original characters I’ve ever read, but they are far from generic. They were both constantly challenging the truths of their respective worlds, no matter what happened they wanted what was best for people, they cared about the future, and were willing to fight for it. Their relationship was sweet, and progressed very nicely. The team aspect of them and Tom and Abby was great. I always love it when a book or series begins with two characters and gradually they collect a loveable squad.
The issues in it were incredibly relevant, there have been quite a few dystopians lately that have a large focus on water, which have been both incredibly interesting and terrifying. This was a great edition to that sub-genre. It is set very close to our time, which makes the future it presents even more terrifying, and important that we pay attention to the messages it presents. It was also a very good exploration on morality, which can make or break dystopians. The science aspects were very interesting, many of those technologies are even being developed and used now, and have inspired me to do some research into them.
Rather random: in a slightly odd but not necessarily bad way, it kind of reminded me of Barbie Starlight Adventure - just set on a gritty very-near-future Earth instead of sparkly otherworldly planets.
After that cliff hanger ending I will be eagerly awaiting book 2, and it appears that that one will be set more on Mars, hooray!
Overall a very enjoyable book that I would recommend to fans of dystopian and Earth-bound but future thinking sci-fi.
Thank you, Kristen Illarmo, the world needs stories like this at the moment.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book.
To no fault of the author, I misinterpreted the blurb and thought that this book was mostly set on Mars. I was very excited to read a high octane Mars sci-fi, but was slightly disappointed when I realised it was entirely set on Earth, and more of a dystopian. I was not quite in the mood for a dystopian, and that probably took away some of my enjoyment. However, it was still a very enjoyable book.
While I did guess most of the plot twists, it was well plotted and written. It was a perfectly paced, very fast book with no waft (or dramatic plot holes) in site, of which I am very thankful for!
Maddie and Enzo weren’t the most original characters I’ve ever read, but they are far from generic. They were both constantly challenging the truths of their respective worlds, no matter what happened they wanted what was best for people, they cared about the future, and were willing to fight for it. Their relationship was sweet, and progressed very nicely. The team aspect of them and Tom and Abby was great. I always love it when a book or series begins with two characters and gradually they collect a loveable squad.
The issues in it were incredibly relevant, there have been quite a few dystopians lately that have a large focus on water, which have been both incredibly interesting and terrifying. This was a great edition to that sub-genre. It is set very close to our time, which makes the future it presents even more terrifying, and important that we pay attention to the messages it presents. It was also a very good exploration on morality, which can make or break dystopians. The science aspects were very interesting, many of those technologies are even being developed and used now, and have inspired me to do some research into them.
Rather random: in a slightly odd but not necessarily bad way, it kind of reminded me of Barbie Starlight Adventure - just set on a gritty very-near-future Earth instead of sparkly otherworldly planets.
After that cliff hanger ending I will be eagerly awaiting book 2, and it appears that that one will be set more on Mars, hooray!
Overall a very enjoyable book that I would recommend to fans of dystopian and Earth-bound but future thinking sci-fi.
Thank you, Kristen Illarmo, the world needs stories like this at the moment.
April 25, 2025
I received an ARC from the author but wasn’t required to post a review. This is my honest, voluntary reaction and impression after reading this book.
This is one of the best books I’ve read this year and I have read over a hundred so far! This is a nail biting, page turning masterpiece that will completely have you mesmerized and under its spell by the first few chapters!
It’s about two people really but two others join in this group later on. These two are from completely different backgrounds and goals but by being thrown together and enduring what transpired, besides finding a common attraction they are finally united on one goal but will they succeed or fail?
The idea of who is good and who is evil seems to change and betrayal is everywhere you look! Seems no one can be trusted even ones you want to.
The question of finding out who is behind terrorist attacks seems straightforward at first but gets cloudy as more information is revealed. I was caught off guard by some of those betrayals myself! Power and control dominate the thinking of people but beware of the hidden twists you won’t see coming!
This is a adrenaline fueled journey that will have our
heroes questioning what they’ve always believed and coming to grips with accepting the unacceptable conclusion staring them in the face! You will be on the edge of your seat throughout most of this book I can assure you!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend you get and read this book but like all great books it leaves you on a cliffhanger so you like I will need to wait for book two to continue the story and see if the good prevails over the bad!
If you’re looking for a book that will keep your attention and focus plus a story that will captivate you look no further! This book delivers it all and then some!
I urge you to get and read this book! I know you won’t regret that decision- trust me- it’s that good!
This is one of the best books I’ve read this year and I have read over a hundred so far! This is a nail biting, page turning masterpiece that will completely have you mesmerized and under its spell by the first few chapters!
It’s about two people really but two others join in this group later on. These two are from completely different backgrounds and goals but by being thrown together and enduring what transpired, besides finding a common attraction they are finally united on one goal but will they succeed or fail?
The idea of who is good and who is evil seems to change and betrayal is everywhere you look! Seems no one can be trusted even ones you want to.
The question of finding out who is behind terrorist attacks seems straightforward at first but gets cloudy as more information is revealed. I was caught off guard by some of those betrayals myself! Power and control dominate the thinking of people but beware of the hidden twists you won’t see coming!
This is a adrenaline fueled journey that will have our
heroes questioning what they’ve always believed and coming to grips with accepting the unacceptable conclusion staring them in the face! You will be on the edge of your seat throughout most of this book I can assure you!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend you get and read this book but like all great books it leaves you on a cliffhanger so you like I will need to wait for book two to continue the story and see if the good prevails over the bad!
If you’re looking for a book that will keep your attention and focus plus a story that will captivate you look no further! This book delivers it all and then some!
I urge you to get and read this book! I know you won’t regret that decision- trust me- it’s that good!
August 26, 2025
Oh boy. I have such mixed feelings about this one.
This book follows Maddie, the niece of billionaire Gus Sardeth, who is colonizing Mars (just like Elon Musk) and Enzo Cruz, an ecoterrorist who doesn't want Mars colonization but thinks we should solve the problems on earth (bad water, bad air quality, etc.).
I think (?) there was supposed to be a romance in there between Maddie and Enzo. It was so lightly done, I wasn't sure. Honestly, I wasn't crazy about that aspect. Lean into it, or just don't have it.
The author also needs some editing. There are words that are used wrong (once, she writes "clamber" or something like that when she meant "clamor") and the paragraphing needs some work. Just simply using the enter key more would make it flow better! There were some jarring scene changes within the long paragraphs. Maybe this'll be fixed in the final version.
The characters come across as very immature—more like seven year olds instead of seventeen year olds. The book is also very, VERY YA. Maybe I've been reading books for an adult audience a lot lately, but this one is very clearly YA. If you don't like YA, you probably won't like this.
I also wanted to see more world building. We're thrown into this world and it's not clearly explained how or why we got here. More character development would have been helpful, too. Maddie badly wanted to reunite with her mother on Mars, but there isn't much development with her mother's character. I wanted to see more of them together, maybe in flashbacks.
I admit, I did love the ending. It was a surprise, in a pleasant way, and leaves us with a big cliffhanger.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a free review copy.
This book follows Maddie, the niece of billionaire Gus Sardeth, who is colonizing Mars (just like Elon Musk) and Enzo Cruz, an ecoterrorist who doesn't want Mars colonization but thinks we should solve the problems on earth (bad water, bad air quality, etc.).
I think (?) there was supposed to be a romance in there between Maddie and Enzo. It was so lightly done, I wasn't sure. Honestly, I wasn't crazy about that aspect. Lean into it, or just don't have it.
The author also needs some editing. There are words that are used wrong (once, she writes "clamber" or something like that when she meant "clamor") and the paragraphing needs some work. Just simply using the enter key more would make it flow better! There were some jarring scene changes within the long paragraphs. Maybe this'll be fixed in the final version.
The characters come across as very immature—more like seven year olds instead of seventeen year olds. The book is also very, VERY YA. Maybe I've been reading books for an adult audience a lot lately, but this one is very clearly YA. If you don't like YA, you probably won't like this.
I also wanted to see more world building. We're thrown into this world and it's not clearly explained how or why we got here. More character development would have been helpful, too. Maddie badly wanted to reunite with her mother on Mars, but there isn't much development with her mother's character. I wanted to see more of them together, maybe in flashbacks.
I admit, I did love the ending. It was a surprise, in a pleasant way, and leaves us with a big cliffhanger.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a free review copy.
November 2, 2025
⊹ ࣪ ˖ 𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝑨𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈
Against the Red Sky: Mission X is a YA sci-fi adventure that combines political intrigue, environmental commentary, and a spark of forbidden romance. Told through dual POVs, the story follows Maddie—whose family helped establish the Mars colony—and Enzo, the son of a rebel leader determined to destroy it. The setup is fantastic: the contrast between Maddie’s hopeful idealism and Enzo’s desperate loyalty to a dying Earth makes for a compelling dynamic. The opening third is particularly strong, with vivid world-building and sharp, cinematic tension that immerses you in the crumbling society the characters inhabit. Illarmo’s exploration of class divide, ecological collapse, and human ambition feels timely and well-woven into the plot without becoming overbearing.
However, while the premise and atmosphere are impressive, the book loses some of its edge once the two protagonists meet. Their relationship develops too quickly, shifting from ideological tension to instant attraction in a way that weakens both characters’ arcs. The dialogue occasionally slips into cliché, and the Academy setting—so central to the story—feels underdeveloped. There are also pacing issues in the middle portion, where the narrative’s emotional weight falters. Still, the author’s ambition and environmental themes make it a thought-provoking read for younger audiences. It’s a solid start to a series, with great potential if future installments build on the world’s depth and refine the character dynamics.
⊹ ࣪ ˖ 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒐𝒏
╰┈➤blog ╰┈➤ instagram
₊˚ʚ Thanks to NetGalley and Kristen Illarmo for the ARC. Against the Red Sky will be published on Oct 07 2025.
Against the Red Sky: Mission X is a YA sci-fi adventure that combines political intrigue, environmental commentary, and a spark of forbidden romance. Told through dual POVs, the story follows Maddie—whose family helped establish the Mars colony—and Enzo, the son of a rebel leader determined to destroy it. The setup is fantastic: the contrast between Maddie’s hopeful idealism and Enzo’s desperate loyalty to a dying Earth makes for a compelling dynamic. The opening third is particularly strong, with vivid world-building and sharp, cinematic tension that immerses you in the crumbling society the characters inhabit. Illarmo’s exploration of class divide, ecological collapse, and human ambition feels timely and well-woven into the plot without becoming overbearing.
However, while the premise and atmosphere are impressive, the book loses some of its edge once the two protagonists meet. Their relationship develops too quickly, shifting from ideological tension to instant attraction in a way that weakens both characters’ arcs. The dialogue occasionally slips into cliché, and the Academy setting—so central to the story—feels underdeveloped. There are also pacing issues in the middle portion, where the narrative’s emotional weight falters. Still, the author’s ambition and environmental themes make it a thought-provoking read for younger audiences. It’s a solid start to a series, with great potential if future installments build on the world’s depth and refine the character dynamics.
⊹ ࣪ ˖ 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒐𝒏
╰┈➤blog ╰┈➤ instagram
₊˚ʚ Thanks to NetGalley and Kristen Illarmo for the ARC. Against the Red Sky will be published on Oct 07 2025.
dropped
November 26, 2025Hi, I've considered for a long time about what i should do with this book and its review. I'm unable to finish this book, after multiple trials, for reasons i will discussion shortly. I'm giving feedback for the 47% i have read. I apologise for this.
Starting with the good. The book leads with great atmosphere, a vividly imagined world of scarcity. The leads, Maddie and Enzo, have contrasting lives and perspectives, and it was great to explore both of them without explicit bias. The stakes are high, and both have strong motivations and goals. So far, the writing was decent, though there was still plenty of telling over showing. It was okay.
But as soon as the two meet, the writing becomes much more juvenile. Their relationship develops instantly, there's not much to root for. it's very one dimensional, and the characters act very strangely too. The writing—all tell and no show—only amplifies these flaws. Enzo especially, acts like a stud, and not in a good way. His core motivations—his tribe and mission—are constantly in clash with his insta-love for Maddie. He brings it up—the same issue—non-stop, but no development on his part takes place. It feels like we are observing him from the outside, no longer reading his pov, and just seeing him put on the mask of a cool and stoic guy because of Maddie. The writing needs polishing. I think the author can write decently in general, the problems just got so much more obvious when the romance part came in.
Everything just falls flat after they meet and i frankly just couldn't read more than half of it.
Review ends. Thank you for the reader's copy.
Starting with the good. The book leads with great atmosphere, a vividly imagined world of scarcity. The leads, Maddie and Enzo, have contrasting lives and perspectives, and it was great to explore both of them without explicit bias. The stakes are high, and both have strong motivations and goals. So far, the writing was decent, though there was still plenty of telling over showing. It was okay.
But as soon as the two meet, the writing becomes much more juvenile. Their relationship develops instantly, there's not much to root for. it's very one dimensional, and the characters act very strangely too. The writing—all tell and no show—only amplifies these flaws. Enzo especially, acts like a stud, and not in a good way. His core motivations—his tribe and mission—are constantly in clash with his insta-love for Maddie. He brings it up—the same issue—non-stop, but no development on his part takes place. It feels like we are observing him from the outside, no longer reading his pov, and just seeing him put on the mask of a cool and stoic guy because of Maddie. The writing needs polishing. I think the author can write decently in general, the problems just got so much more obvious when the romance part came in.
Everything just falls flat after they meet and i frankly just couldn't read more than half of it.
Review ends. Thank you for the reader's copy.
August 20, 2025
The premise is exciting: Enzo, a young operative from Earth, is tasked with infiltrating the Mars Ascendance Academy, while Maddie, the niece of the colony’s founder, finally gets her chance to join the school she’s dreamed of. Their paths spiral into conspiracy, rebellion, and high-stakes choices that threaten two worlds.
The novel’s greatest strength is its pacing. The story moves fast—sometimes too fast. The constant action kept me turning the pages, but it often came at the expense of character and relationship development.
Moments that should have carried emotional weight, like the shift from hostility to friendship or the “I love you” confession, felt rushed or underdeveloped.
The story benefits somewhat from alternating points of view, giving the reader insight into both Enzo and Maddie’s internal struggles. Still, this doesn’t fully make up for some inconsistencies. A prime example is Maddie suddenly showing advanced hacking skills without much setup—it felt convenient rather than earned.
While I was able to guess the identity of the Operator rather quickly, I admit I enjoyed that Mei pieced it together at the same moment I did—it gave the reveal a nice sense of shared discovery.
Readers who enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes sci-fi centered on rebellion will likely have fun with it, but those who crave richer character arcs and more nuanced relationship growth may find it a bit lacking.
Thanks NetGalley and Kristen Illarmo for the eARC provided in return for my honest review.
The novel’s greatest strength is its pacing. The story moves fast—sometimes too fast. The constant action kept me turning the pages, but it often came at the expense of character and relationship development.
Moments that should have carried emotional weight, like the shift from hostility to friendship or the “I love you” confession, felt rushed or underdeveloped.
The story benefits somewhat from alternating points of view, giving the reader insight into both Enzo and Maddie’s internal struggles. Still, this doesn’t fully make up for some inconsistencies. A prime example is Maddie suddenly showing advanced hacking skills without much setup—it felt convenient rather than earned.
While I was able to guess the identity of the Operator rather quickly, I admit I enjoyed that Mei pieced it together at the same moment I did—it gave the reveal a nice sense of shared discovery.
Readers who enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes sci-fi centered on rebellion will likely have fun with it, but those who crave richer character arcs and more nuanced relationship growth may find it a bit lacking.
Thanks NetGalley and Kristen Illarmo for the eARC provided in return for my honest review.
July 22, 2025
One of the best YA sci-fi tales I have read in some time, Against the Red Sky unfolds from two perspectives, the first being of Maddie, the niece of a billionaire tycoon with a colony on Mars. She is desperate to get to Mars to join her mother there. The other hero of the story is Enzo, who has grown up in the Pacific islands as part of a group that is drawing attention to how those wanting to get to Mars are abandoning Earth and stealing its water resources. Because of their violent methods used to target their enemies, they are seen as terrorists. Maddie and Enzo's lives intertwine when he is sent to go undercover to destroy the shuttle that will take the next batch of young recruits to Mars, a roster that includes Maddie. Sparks fly between the two, and both have their loyalties tested as they see the shortcomings of the sides they are on - which is interesting because in both cases, that's also their family.
The book keeps up a lively pace throughout and is easy to read quickly. I appreciated the twin POVs, and it feels very current with the themes of water scarcity and the idea of a new life on Mars, which many oppose when the costs involved could be used to help alleviate suffering on Earth. The romance keeps things bubbling along nicely and the book ends in a place that sees primed to roll straight into book two, which I hope to see soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
The book keeps up a lively pace throughout and is easy to read quickly. I appreciated the twin POVs, and it feels very current with the themes of water scarcity and the idea of a new life on Mars, which many oppose when the costs involved could be used to help alleviate suffering on Earth. The romance keeps things bubbling along nicely and the book ends in a place that sees primed to roll straight into book two, which I hope to see soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
August 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with this e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I particularly loved the dystopian and futuristic setting and premise of this book. I have always been interested in and fascinated by the colonisation of mars, so the idea behind this story was particularly of interest to me. I also enjoyed the academy setting and the fast-paced nature of this book.
However, I found the story to be lacking on a few things. I found the characters to be somewhat one-dimensional and the resolution of character interactions to be too quick, such as the friendship between two particular characters in this book. I also wish it had gone more into the backstory of the world and characters in order to provide a bit more depth. As well as either scrapping the slight 'romantic' subplot or expanding on it as I felt it was a bit randomly done.
Overall an enjoyable fast-paced read that would be suited for a YA audience that enjoys sci-fi and dystopian books. Thanks again to Netgalley and the author for this early review copy.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I particularly loved the dystopian and futuristic setting and premise of this book. I have always been interested in and fascinated by the colonisation of mars, so the idea behind this story was particularly of interest to me. I also enjoyed the academy setting and the fast-paced nature of this book.
However, I found the story to be lacking on a few things. I found the characters to be somewhat one-dimensional and the resolution of character interactions to be too quick, such as the friendship between two particular characters in this book. I also wish it had gone more into the backstory of the world and characters in order to provide a bit more depth. As well as either scrapping the slight 'romantic' subplot or expanding on it as I felt it was a bit randomly done.
Overall an enjoyable fast-paced read that would be suited for a YA audience that enjoys sci-fi and dystopian books. Thanks again to Netgalley and the author for this early review copy.
November 24, 2025
Honestly, this is more of a 3.5 stars book than 3 stars. The dialogue and characters were what really kept me engaged from beginning to the end of the novel. The opening is also very intriguing and fast-paced. I loved the exploration of class system, explosion, corruption, and romance in the novel. But one thing I did not enjoy all that well is the exposition and there was more telling sometimes. Also, I wanted more dystopian elements to really see a futuristic world, other than the cuffs and the students training to go mars. I wanted to see more in terms of the technological advancement and damage done the world because the pollution of water did not do it for me. Other than this, I am absolutely grateful that I got to read this book and looking forward to more of the author's works.
June 25, 2025
Thank you, Kristen Illarmo, Empty Field Publishing, and Netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
4 Stars
"YA thriller, survival means risking everything, including the people you thought you hated most."
This read was a thriller sci-fi with some romance. It follows people from completely different backgrounds who end up together with high stakes and secrets exposed. It leaves you guessing who is good and who is evil. It was a page-turner with conspiracy, infiltration, sacrifice, betrayal, and loyalty- just to name a few.
I enjoyed this book, I thought it was an intense YA novel that touched on very real problems, decision-making, and ultimately, where loyalty lies.
4 Stars
"YA thriller, survival means risking everything, including the people you thought you hated most."
This read was a thriller sci-fi with some romance. It follows people from completely different backgrounds who end up together with high stakes and secrets exposed. It leaves you guessing who is good and who is evil. It was a page-turner with conspiracy, infiltration, sacrifice, betrayal, and loyalty- just to name a few.
I enjoyed this book, I thought it was an intense YA novel that touched on very real problems, decision-making, and ultimately, where loyalty lies.
October 3, 2025
I first came across Kristen Illarmo on TikTok, and after chatting a bit about books, we decided to trade reads. Against the Red Sky isn’t the kind of book I’d normally pick up, but I’m glad I did, I really enjoyed it. The characters are compelling, the story kept me engaged, and I found myself invested in how things would turn out.
It’s an enemies-to-lovers romance thriller with real stakes, just the right amount of tension, and a touch of spice that makes it a fun, fast-paced read. A great introduction to Illarmo’s writing, and I’ll definitely be checking out the second of this duology when it comes out.
It’s an enemies-to-lovers romance thriller with real stakes, just the right amount of tension, and a touch of spice that makes it a fun, fast-paced read. A great introduction to Illarmo’s writing, and I’ll definitely be checking out the second of this duology when it comes out.
October 6, 2025
I enjoyed Against the Red Sky but I do think there were some struggles with pacing. Initially I had a hard time getting into the story. It just felt like it was a little slow to start but at the same time I felt like I opened the book right into the middle of the story. I wish there would have been more back story. As I continued reading the overall pace did pick up though sometimes as the detriment of the story and emotions. I think this is a good jumping off point but in the next book I want a little more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 9, 2025
Since I personally requested this book directly from the author, I wanted to take my time and give it a fair evaluation, especially since she was curious about why it received three stars. In addition to reviewing books on the side, I have a teaching degree with an English background.
First, let’s highlight the positives. Enzo and Maddie's storyline is a unique premise with a lot of potential, and it was beneficial to have both of their points of view. The pacing of the book is also quite good. However, the primary issue with this Young Adult book is its overall reading level. The book needed more revision, and it seems clear that a better editor could have significantly improved it before publication.
First, let’s highlight the positives. Enzo and Maddie's storyline is a unique premise with a lot of potential, and it was beneficial to have both of their points of view. The pacing of the book is also quite good. However, the primary issue with this Young Adult book is its overall reading level. The book needed more revision, and it seems clear that a better editor could have significantly improved it before publication.
June 28, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest evaluation of its merits.
The dueling POVs caused the backstory of the lead characters to develop slower than I would have preferred, but beyond that I enjoyed the story. The mirroring of the mother characters was interesting, though I am left wondering if there is more to the story of Maddie's mother than we are shown. It took me a while to discover the identity of The Operator, but I got there in the end. I like how this story definitely sets up the next book in the series.
The dueling POVs caused the backstory of the lead characters to develop slower than I would have preferred, but beyond that I enjoyed the story. The mirroring of the mother characters was interesting, though I am left wondering if there is more to the story of Maddie's mother than we are shown. It took me a while to discover the identity of The Operator, but I got there in the end. I like how this story definitely sets up the next book in the series.
August 11, 2025
This was an entertaining read that went by quickly.
If you love the mix of dystopian tales amidst characters trying to figure out their place in their respective worlds, you will enjoy this one.
Clear world-building and lots of character growth as well, amid a plot that should scare us all. Not to mention the major twist that made everything fall together. Good stuff.
I rated this one around 3.5 stars.
Thanks again to Net Galley and the author for granting me this arc in return for my honest review.
If you love the mix of dystopian tales amidst characters trying to figure out their place in their respective worlds, you will enjoy this one.
Clear world-building and lots of character growth as well, amid a plot that should scare us all. Not to mention the major twist that made everything fall together. Good stuff.
I rated this one around 3.5 stars.
Thanks again to Net Galley and the author for granting me this arc in return for my honest review.
October 7, 2025
This was such a fun YA dystopian, Sci-fi read. The story explores loyalty, sacrifices, and a bit of romance.
I really enjoyed this, I liked the witty moments with Enzo, the twists, the pacing, and the differences in the backgrounds of the characters.
I think the romance got lost somehow in the plot of the story and I wish some of the characters had more backstory.
It's been awhile since I read a book that ended onn a cliffhanger and now I cant wait for the second book.
Thank you Netgalley and Kristen Illarmo for this ARC.
I really enjoyed this, I liked the witty moments with Enzo, the twists, the pacing, and the differences in the backgrounds of the characters.
I think the romance got lost somehow in the plot of the story and I wish some of the characters had more backstory.
It's been awhile since I read a book that ended onn a cliffhanger and now I cant wait for the second book.
Thank you Netgalley and Kristen Illarmo for this ARC.
July 31, 2025
Was given an ARC by the author and I have to say, I really enjoyed this book! The characters were well thought out and the story was very well written. This was the first book I have read by Kristen, and it makes me want to read her other books as well! The hardest part for me about this book is now I have to wait for the second book to be finished!
Thank you Kristen for the story and for letting me read it early!
Thank you Kristen for the story and for letting me read it early!
August 7, 2025
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for an arc of this book
I enjoyed this story. I liked the dual POV which gave more context for Maddie and Enzo’s actions. I do think a bit more background could’ve been even better. The pacing of the story is pretty fast. I didn’t know who the operator was until they revealed it. I’ll pick up the next book for sure !
I enjoyed this story. I liked the dual POV which gave more context for Maddie and Enzo’s actions. I do think a bit more background could’ve been even better. The pacing of the story is pretty fast. I didn’t know who the operator was until they revealed it. I’ll pick up the next book for sure !
October 31, 2025
A fast-paced blend of sci-fi adventure and emotional stakes! I loved how the story dives straight into the action but still takes time to explore the characters’ fears and hopes. The world-building feels vivid without being overwhelming, and by the end, I was completely hooked on the mission. Can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
May 4, 2025
This was great, I did really enjoy it! I found the story so well written, with brilliant planning on the plot & a well crafted storyline. The levels of angst were a little on the high side for me, but other wise a great read!
August 24, 2025
This was a book that I was very fortunate enough to win in a giveaway. I read about part of it before giving up because I realized it just wasn't for me. The writing style is very good and the plot seems interesting.
May 5, 2025
Great, fast-paced fun story with lots of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. It has elements of academy, romance, scifi, and thriller that kept me up late reading.
dnf
October 6, 2025I did read the first two chapters of the arc, but the writing style was not working for me, couldn’t really get into the story and it was kind of difficult for me to read.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews