Chaotic Orbits

Chaotic Orbits #1-3

by Beth Revis

Now collected into a beautiful omnibus edition, this romantic sci-fi trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Beth Revis is perfect for fans of Martha Wells

When Ada, a charming grifter, crosses paths with Rian, a no-nonsense government agent, the ensuing chaos will lead them across the stars—and into each other’s arms

Ada Lamarr has a very good reason for being the first at the wreckage of an intergalactic ship. If Rian White, leader of the government ship sent to examine the remains, can't tell truth from lie when it comes to her excuses, well, that's his problem. And Ada has absolutely no issue whatsoever being his problem—in fact, when Rian's in the picture, she's determined to do the wrong thing. Whether looting an "off limits" shipwreck, stealing something from a high-security museum at an intergalactic gala, or pulling off the heist of the millennia at a trillionaire's home base, Ada always has a plan.

Even when Rian corners her.

In this collection of all three of the original Chaotic Orbits novellas, readers can follow Ada's elaborate cat-and-mouse schemes and the will-they-won't-they temptation of a romance with Rian. Featuring a new, exclusive short story told from Rian's point of view, fans will love this epic spacemance from the reigning queen of romantic science fiction!

Genres: Science Fiction, Romance, Humor

400 pages, Paperback

Expected publication August 4, 2026

About the author

Beth Revis writes books. She also eats too much chocolate, wishes she could travel more, and prefers puppies to people. Beth lives in rural NC with her boys: one husband, one son, two very large puppies.

Reviews

[Val Helsing · Rating 4 out of 5]

[ARC]

Thanks to DAW and NetGalley for this advance reader copy of Chaotic Orbits by Beth Revis, to be published on August 4th, 2026.

I enjoyed the story. It was an entertaining sci-fi book. The cover is really cute as well. I even added another of her books to my TBR list!

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a collection of three space adventure novellas and I had such a great time reading this. I love the banter and I found myself racing through them. My favorite story was the first one! I liked how the plot got deeper with every novella and I’m so excited to see how (if??) it will continue. I definitely recommend picking this up if you’re in the mood for a fun and fast paced time

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an early copy in exchange for an honest review

[Raelene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I read the 3 books in this trilogy as they were first being released, and already knew that I loved them. However, while I was screaming (in a good way) at the way the trilogy ended (those footnotes!!), I felt like the story wasn’t finished and I wanted more. So I loved seeing that this omnibus had an extra short story, to add to the original story.

Full Speed To A Crash Landing is my favourite of the stories. The crew of the Halifax and initial meeting between Ada and Rian is just top tier, and it had a twist I did not see coming. But the continuous banter and teamwork between them throughout the entire book was just so good. Ada is one of my favourite main characters I’ve read about, her humour especially is just so good. I laughed out loud multiple times reading this, and swooned a little bit (seriously, the footnotes).

I do feel like even with the addition of the short story to this omnibus, it doesn’t feel totally finished. But I genuinely love this. This was my 3rd time reading the full series, but I’ve reread Full Speed To A Crash Landing and How To Steal A Galaxy even more, in preparation for when each book was previously releasing. I think it gets even better each time, as I catch even more details. Definitely recommend, and I love that these novellas were combined so people can read one after another easier, because when I first read this I was desperate to continue the series immediately.

Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this book! I voluntarily read this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[BookishKB]

🚀💫 Chaotic Orbits 💫🚀

📖 Bookish Thoughts

One of my favorite series of all time! Excited for this reread!

✨ What to Expect
• Space Opera Romance
• Cat and Mouse
• Grifter FMC
• Government Agent MMC
• Galactic Heists
• Opposites Attract
_ _ _

📅 Pub Date: August 4, 2026
Thank you to DAW and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stumbled across the Chaotic Orbits series on NetGalley. It’s the space adventure that everyone needs to read. I took so long to read it because I was savoring each part of the novellas.

I’m in love with Ada and her rebellious nature. I need to know what happens with her and Rian. My biggest gripe is the giant cliffhanger and the end! Where is the freaking rest?!?

[Rallie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for giving me the eARC of this book, this review and opinions are my own.

"One goal. Full speed until you get it. It's the only way."

Oh my god. OH MY GOD. I opened this book and was immediately sucked in to Beth Revis' incredible first person narration - you want a scoundrel who is just as clever and devious as she thinks she is? Ada is that girl. What a fun, fast paced serial adventure with a stinger that leaves you screaming for more (it's happening, right? Please lord tell me it's happening?).

Chaotic Orbits is a delightful romp across the galaxy made into a masterpiece of sci-fi heists and spacemance through Revis' gift for dialogue (and monologue - really it's Ada's internal monologue that takes this book over the top). But this isn't just lighthearted japery (affectionate), there are moments of gravitas where Revis channels real history: I'm talking about the o-rings, about failsafes - about the story-ship the Rose and the real-ship the Challenger as an ongoing point of reference for the characters.

I loved Ada's occasional forays into space-existentialism (alien archaeologists in the far future finding a crashed spaceship in the deepest stratographic layers of their planet; only ever finding human ghost ships; a pharaoh's liver on a distant planet; etc) as a tacit reminder that this is a deeply intelligent woman and not just a wily (and lucky) criminal. Actually, I just love everything about Ada. I'm her lawyer and my client has done nothing wrong.

The villain. What an excellent example of Snidely Whiplash-ery that avoids cartoonishness by virtue of his similarity to certain South African trillionaire we know. Every step of the way when Ada hoodwinked him it filled me with a little 😏😎 energy and I think we all need a little more 😏😎 against the capitalist overlords in our lives.

Rian was the absolute silliest goose and Ada's magnetic attraction to him made perfect sense - here's a guy who genuinely believes in the morality of the state, living with the cognitive dissonance of recognizing corruption and is just about smart enough to keep up with Ada's game of 3D chess while still being at least one step behind. It was fun to imagine him banging his head against the wall after one of Ada's great escapes, and the epistolary sections at the end of each novella were the perfect way to include his perspective without interrupting or diverting Ada's flow.

This is a book for people who want exciting eco-futurism packaged in a series of brilliantly orchestrated multi-layered heists driven by a woman who knows more than you and won't fully let you in on it until she's ready to knock over the first domino (we love an unreliable narrator in this house!) I truly hope Beth Revis plans to continue writing the adventures of Ada and Rian because as Ada says,

UNKNOWN: I know you love the chase.
UNKNOWN: Almost as much as you love me.
UNKNOWN: And if you want me, you’re going to have to come and get me.

[Mel (Epic Reading) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This trilogy of novellas by Beth Revis, collectively together is the perfect omnibus of fun, science fiction, silly quips, and yet has many severely perilous moments. To say I adore the Chaotic Orbits trilogy is a bit of an understatement. It’s very rare I read books one after another in a series. Generally I spread them out by a few books and/or months to ensure I don’t get bored or tired of the story, setting, or characters. In the case of these ones I was dying to read the next book immediately, and so took the chance reading all three of these stories within one year. And it was the right choice!

Science fiction can be one of those genres that’s very hard for newer readers, or new to sci-fi to break into. There’s a lot of garbage, and a huge variance between the sub genres with hard science, space opera, survival dystopia, and sci-fi horror all sitting at many folks limits of what they are interested in or can handle. Chaotic Orbits has none of these problems. This cozy, humorous, yet deadly series is easily accessible to anyone while still being engaging for the average sci-fi reader (like myself). Be warned, the blurbs may make it seem like there is romance here, it’s very very mild and not a key piece of the final instalment as the synopsis might make you think.

If you enjoy Murderbot, Firefly/Serenity, Automatic Noodles, or Themis series you’ll likely enjoy this series. I’m super glad to see it in this omnibus as my reason for not giving each book individually 5 stars is because it was broken up and feels like a cash grab. A very ironic thing given the anti-capitalist rhetoric throughout by our leading lady. Therefore, this opportunity to get all 3 stories continuously is key. Keep in mind all three novellas together is barely the length of your average book, so it’s not even that big of a time commitment!

I’ll be picking up a copy in this format to add to my print shelf as I could see myself coming back to this one day. Plus the cover art is gorgeous!!
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Fun, charming, with deeper roots than I expected.

You really can’t go wrong with a space heist.

From the very beginning, the dynamic between Rian and Ada made this story shine. Pairing a technically legal scavenger with hidden motives and a by-the-book, irresistibly nerdy love interest created the perfect foundation for both the romance and the adventure.

What surprised me most was how thoughtfully the novel balanced its lighthearted tone with larger themes. Like many great science fiction stories, it used a futuristic setting to explore issues that feel remarkably close to home. Beneath the humor and action was a cautionary look at the future of our planet and the consequences of neglecting it, making the story feel both entertaining and relevant.

Ada’s voice immediately pulled me in. Her sarcasm, wit, and quick humor brought a refreshing energy to a genre that often leans heavily into technical jargon and serious exposition. She made the world feel accessible while keeping the adventure fun.

I also loved the way the relationship between Ada and Rian developed. Both characters had their own secrets, hidden agendas, and reasons not to trust one another. Rather than relying on one-sided deception or unnecessary miscommunication, the story allowed them to challenge each other in ways that kept both the romance and the plot moving forward. Their chemistry grew naturally through their banter, reluctant trust, and shared adventures.

Some of my favorite moments were the smaller ones: the lava dives, the kidnapping, the stolen kisses, and of course the pigeons. Those scenes gave the story its personality and made it memorable beyond the larger plot.

The world-building struck a nice balance between detail and accessibility. The technology and setting were easy to follow without lengthy explanations slowing the pace, and even with several twists and turns, the story remained engaging and easy to keep up with.

If I had one wish, it would simply be for more time in space. I loved the ships, the heist elements, and the glimpses of life beyond Earth, and I found myself wanting to spend more time exploring other worlds alongside the characters. While I understand the story’s primary focus was the future of Earth and its environmental consequences, I would have happily read another hundred pages expanding that side of the adventure.

The only area that occasionally pulled me out of the story was the second half. At times, the narrative shifted from showing the themes through the characters and plot to explaining them more directly through longer philosophical reflections. While I appreciated the ideas being explored, I occasionally felt these passages interrupted the fast-paced momentum and witty tone that had made the opening so engaging. For me, the environmental and societal commentary was strongest when it emerged naturally through the story itself.

Overall, this was an enjoyable blend of science fiction, romance, and adventure. The characters were easy to root for, the humor kept the story lively, and the combination of a space heist with thoughtful commentary on humanity’s future made for an entertaining and surprisingly meaningful read.

[Jensen McCorkel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 3.5

A smart, fast-paced sci-fi adventure that thrives on its irresistible characters, sharp humor, and engaging slow-burn romance.

My favorite part is the outstanding banter! Ada and Rian's witty back-and-forth is the heart of the series, balancing humor, flirtation, and tension. Ada is a resourceful, morally gray heroine whose charm and unpredictability make her easy to root for. Rian provides a perfect foil with his by-the-book approach. Revis creatively blends genres of science fiction, mystery, romance, and heist elements and they work together seamlessly. The world-building is easy to follow without requiring extensive knowledge of science fiction tropes and while each novella has its own mission, they build toward a cohesive and rewarding conclusion.

The novella format does come with a few drawbacks. The universe is intriguing but never explored as deeply as it could be, and the supporting cast doesn't receive enough page time to feel fully developed. The emphasis is also placed on adventure, relationships, and fun rather than hard science, so readers looking for the depth and complexity of an epic space opera may find the series a bit too light.

Even so, the series succeeds because of its charismatic leads, sparkling dialogue, and entertaining blend of space adventure, mystery, and romance. Readers seeking a fun, character-driven sci-fi romp will likely be delighted, while those hoping for expansive world-building or technically detailed science fiction may come away wanting more.

Overall, Chaotic Orbits is an entertaining mix of space mystery, daring heists, and high-stakes action that never loses sight of the emotional connection between Ada and Rian. Although the novella format limits the depth of the world-building and supporting cast, the series more than compensates with clever twists, nonstop momentum, and a delightful central duo whose chemistry carries every story.

[Angie Miale · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 ⭐️

Originally published as three interconnected novellas, Chaotic Orbits collects Beth Revis’s adventures of Ada Lamarr into one volume. The series blends a space heist, enemies-to-lovers tension, and plenty of intergalactic adventure, following Ada—a quirky, impulsive heroine who always seems to find herself chasing the next impossible mission. Her foil is Rian White, the commander of the government ship who repeatedly finds himself crossing paths with her.

Even though this isn’t marketed as YA, it definitely had that feel for me. Ada’s voice is energetic and fun, and the stories move quickly, but I never felt fully invested in the romance. The chemistry between Ada and Rian didn’t quite land for me, and because these began life as novellas, the overall collection reads more like an episodic serial than a traditional novel. Each adventure is entertaining on its own, but many story threads remain open, making the ending feel intentionally unfinished rather than fully satisfying.

My favorite installment was Full Speed to a Crash Landing, where we first meet Ada and get to know her personality. The second novella was another enjoyable adventure, while the third significantly raises the stakes and expands the scope of the story. The collection also includes a bonus short story from Rian’s point of view, which was a nice addition.

Overall, this was a fun sci-fi adventure with an appealing setting, and I think collecting all three novellas into one edition was a smart decision. I enjoyed my time with it, but I never found myself emotionally invested enough to love it. If you’re looking for a light, fast-paced space adventure with a touch of romance, this may be worth picking up.

Thank you to DAW Books for the finished copy. Chaotic Orbits publishes August 4, 2026.

[Mollified.Moments · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chaotic Orbits novellas are one of my favorite series. I read each of them when they came out so I was so excited when I saw an omnibus edition was being released. Beth Revis is one of my favorite authors, and having Ada and Rian’s story all together in one beautiful edition is just so freaking cool.

Since this is an omnibus, I thought it’d be fun to share my thoughts on the series as a whole…

I was hooked from the start. Ada is a FMC who keeps you guessing. She’s clever, slightly morally gray and always seems to have a trick up her sleeve. Then there’s Rian who’s basically her complete opposite and their banter and chemistry is just so cute and such a huge part of what makes these books so much fun.

Even though these are novellas they really pack in the action, space heists, twists, romance (and a thoughtful look at things like climate change, technology and corporate greed). Revis somehow manages to fit all of that into a fast paced story that never stops being fun.
I was sad to see this series end and I’m still holding out hope that maybe someday we’ll get another adventure with Ada and Rian.

If you like fast-paced sci fi with cute banter, lovable characters, space heists and a smidge of romance…I can’t recommend Chaotic Orbits enough. This is the series that made Beth Revis one of my favorite authors!

Also, fun fact. Beth Revis said she wrote the first novella completely out of spite after someone told her she couldn’t write a short, fast paced commercial story. And the villain? She wrote him so Ada could say all the things she wishes she could say to Elon Musk. One of the many, many reasons she’s one of my favorite authors.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you DAW and NetGalley for the ARC!

I hadn't read the original Chaotic Orbits novellas before so I was excited to explore a new space story in this omnibus, but I wasn't prepared for how much I would adore this story. I was really enjoying the first novella, Full Speed to a Crash Landing, and then the end had me HOOKED. I couldn't put the rest of the story down and had to finish it in one sitting.

I think with a lot of series' there is so much magic in the first book that the sequels don't quite live up, but How to Steal a Galaxy and Last Chance to Save the World were the opposite for me. The stories got so much stronger as they went on and as much as I wanted to see what would happen, I didn't want Ada and Rian's journey to end.

Ada was so captivating, I love characters with the right morals but who don't mind breaking some rules along the way (or in Ada's case, all of the rules). Rian is such an adorable, clueless (complimentary) love interest. I really appreciated that they ultimately had the same goals but were completely different in how they approached everything. Their banter was downright sexy at times and Ada's humour was so compelling, but despite that there was so much emotion in this story.

"With one kiss, he's taken the gravity right out from under me.
But somehow, I'm not falling."

I really loved the additional chapters at the end and hope we have more to come from Ada and Rian in the future. Chaotic Orbits is a fast-paced space story with high stakes and a cat and mouse chase with an important message at its heart—what it means to be human.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Daw for the eArc!

Chaotic Orbits is a collection of the 3 novellas combined into one edition. As someone who isn’t into novellas usually, I was interested to read this collection. I must say, I’m glad they combined them all into one because I actually read it and I had a lot of fun.

Ada, our narrator, is chaotic, charming and willing to bend (or break) the rules to complete her jobs. Rian is the rule-abiding government agent who frequently ends up in Ada’s orbit. The chemistry between the two is adorable even as they both try to out-maneuver and outwit each other. Ada is a fun lead with a quick wit, a sunny personality, and plenty of intelligence. Rian is a perfect match/foil for her. He’s all about following the rules, but can’t help feeling drawn to Ada.

Each novella follows a different job of Ada’s but are linked by a main thread focused around a group of rebels trying to save the original Earth from an indifferent government and the richest man in the universe (who reminds me of a real rich person who sucks). I liked watching all the pieces of Ada’s plans fall into place while Rian does his best to stay one step ahead. Their banter was a treat and I found myself smiling at Ada’s antics.

Overall, this was a fun read with lots of hijinks, two very likeable leads and an engaging story that made this one hard to put down. Honestly, I was sad when it ended because I need more Ada and Rian in my life. I don’t know if the author plans to write more about these two, but I hope I get to see them again. (Please? Like I would read a ten book series about Ada and Rian and their adventures).

[Lia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delicious character dynamic wrapped up in sci-fi heists and saving the planet, Chaotic Orbits is a fantastic collection of novellas.

I had read books 1 and 2 last year, but thoroughly enjoyed reading them both again as part of this. Ada is a fantastic protagonist to follow, especially on a reread as you really can see through her intentions in ways that make it even more entertaining. She is very much a liar in so many ways and I loved reading her.

The second big highlight of these books, of course, is Ada’s dynamic with Rian. They want each other so bad but know they absolutely should not go there. I lived for every time they were bantering with each other. Rian’s footnotes at the end of each novella are also fantastic.

I personally also really liked the angle these novellas take on how the Earth has been messed up by the climate, and the rich don’t care to actually help it. I would not be surprised if the rich asshole character was inspired by some real life rich assholes. It was a very satisfying read when it comes to that character.

And to my friends who are reading this going “but I hate sci-fi” or “but I hate heist novels” - absolutely do not let those aspects put you off this series. The character dynamic is well worth it I think regardless of your genre preferences. Plus they are so short, you should really give it a try.

Thanks so much to DAW for providing this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own. I’m definitely going to pick up a physical copy of this on release - look at that gorgeous cover.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the ultimate game of cat and mouse. It's certainly not a new trope, but this is by far the best I’ve ever seen it done. The banter and sexual tension is spot on, the way Ada stays ahead of the game is perfection, and I both want to hug Rian and smack him upside the head for not figuring things out sooner.

I love every single element of this book. It reminds me a lot of the relationship between Batman and Catwoman and also of one of my favorite tv shows, Leverage. The whole book is just so easy to slip into and absolutely hilarious. As I was reading it I would send random out of context screen shots to my sister just because everything Ada says is hilarious. She is the kind of woman I wish I was smart enough to be!

Chaotic Orbits is a new edition that collects three novellas and adds a new short story at the end. Still the three novellas flow easily into each other and I don’t think the reader will have any issues with that. Because of that set up the story is basically three different heists that are interconnected and none of the novellas stand alone.

Audiobook Review
I mixed listening to the novellas between audiobook and the new collection. The narrator is absolute perfection. However, because these were originally novellas, the audiobooks only seem to be available to each novella individually.

Thank you Netgalley and DAW books for the arc.

[Gal Wohlen · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗢𝗿𝗯𝗶𝘁𝘀 – 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
⭐4.5/5

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
The only thing I remember about this book when I requested it was that it was a heist... in space. I mean... how COOL does that sound?

What I didn't expect was the mind-blowing, intricate, absolutely unhinged mastermind that is the FMC.

Ada is... how do I put this? Imagine Kaz Brekker with a pink, bubbly personality. She's terrifyingly clever, always ten steps ahead of everyone else, and somehow manages to smile while outsmarting absolutely everyone (and even making Rian blush!).

This isn't your typical sci-fi romance, and I genuinely think this is enemies-to... something? The relationship between Ada and Rian was... oooff. The banter, the constant taunting, the mind games, the cat-and-mouse dynamic... SO GOOD.

And this wasn't your typical heist either. I mean, for starters... it's in space😂 but also because every clue made me think I had figured it out, only for Ada to reveal she'd already planned the next seven moves. Every. Single. Time.

One thing I really loved was the format. The book is made up of three novellas that come together into one story, and it worked surprisingly well.

So, if you're looking for a space heist, a ridiculously clever FMC, a rule-following MMC who's slightly obsessed with control, and enough twists to keep you guessing... Chaotic Orbits deserves a spot on your TBR🚀🤍

[Ky · Rating 3 out of 5]

First and foremost, thank you to the author and the publisher for allowing me to read an early copy of this book!

I’d like to start by saying this is probably closer to a 3.5, but we all know Goodreads is lame and doesn’t let me put decimals.

I feel slightly conflicted about this book. There were moments where I was on the edge of my seat, but there were also moments I was incredibly bored. If it wasn’t three books in one, I don’t think I’d see myself rushing to read the next one (except for the first one, that one was my favorite and the end was brutal).

The FMC got on my nerves maybe about 75% of the book, but that 25% she was fantastic, and I loved the mystery of what she was really up to in every book.

There were a couple of twists I didn’t expect, which was cool, I enjoyed the mind games.

I saw another review though that said if you’re here for the romance look elsewhere and that’s 10000% correct. I expected the third book to end with a bang, since it was supposed to be the final book, but it ended on a cliffhanger and then there was kind of a fourth book/novella/short story in there?? That also ended on a cliffhanger?? I was utterly confused, and I’m not sure if this was intentional and these characters are always going to be chasing one another, but 😩😩😩

Overall, it was a good time! I don’t usually read sci-fi, space romance heist books, so this was new for me and I really enjoyed the first third of this omnibus!

[Nadine in NY Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early review copy.

This is yet another fantastic installment in Revis's new series!

I read and LOVED the three novellas that make up the bulk of this book: 
* Full Speed to a Crash Landing (5 stars)
* How to Steal a Galaxy (3 stars - middle book syndrome)
* Last Chance to Save the World (4 stars)

So when I saw this collected edition on NetGalley, as "Read Now," with a bonus fourth novella (what's shorter than a novella? a novelette?), I pounced on it!  What a delight to be back with Ada & Rian!!!

And when I got to the end of the new novelette, I could not BE more excited, because this is clearly a set up for MORE Ada & Rian to come!  BRING IT!  I can hardly wait.

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is easy, fun, character-driven scifi for fans of Becky Chambers and Murderbot. I have a lot of fondness for this little series, and I’m glad to see it’s being compiled into an omnibus because that’s definitely the best way to experience it; the 3 novellas always felt like one book broken into parts.

I’m truly not sure if I should recommend this as a romance or not. On the one hand, Ada and Rian make the book. There’s something so classically charming about their cat and mouse dynamic. On the other hand, it’s hard to even say these books contain a “romance,” because they never really get off the ground. The cat and mouse chase continues indefinitely, with no romantic closure whatsoever.

When I first read these books I was pretty unhappy with the end of the third one, for that reason. I JUMPED to request this ARC when I saw that the omnibus edition includes a short story set after book 3, and I’m pleased to report that the short story did its job and turned my feelings around to positive again. I really hope that we’ll get a fourth book or, better yet, another whole trilogy set in this world, but even if we don’t, the short story included the reunion and start of a new adventure that this series desperately needed.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Aimee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

This is an omnibus release of a trilogy of a very entertaining, funny, and cosy sci-fi novellas, based in a universe where humans have moved on to colonise other planets while the Earth is dying.

While it deals with some high-stakes and serious issues around the environment, corporate greed and bureaucracy, this series isn't particularly dark or suspenseful. It leans much more towards humour and is full of heists and hijinks, a touch of romance, and enjoyable characters.

The banter and chemistry between morally grey Ada and the more straightlaced Rian is a highlight. Their dynamic was great, and it was a lot fun seeing how they work towards similar goals but had such completely different ways of thinking about and achieving things. Their banter was really amusing and engaging to read.

The plot is also quite well done. It's fast paced, and while the twists and turns weren't necessarily surprising, it was a lot of fun watching the secrets and motivations unravel and events unfold.

The bonus story at the of this omnibus is also a great addition. While I think it leaves things set up for possible further adventures, I personally also thought it was an enjoyable and not unsatisfying way to leave things if Beth Revis doesn't choose to return to this world.

Thank you to DAW and NetGalley for the ARC!

[Ally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Revis proves once again that science fiction can be both brilliantly imaginative and deeply human. Chaotic Orbits is a fast-paced, clever adventure filled with high-stakes tension, sharp dialogue, and characters who feel real even while navigating the vastness of space.

What stood out most was how effortlessly Revis balances the science with emotion. The story explores themes of trust, survival, found family, sacrifice, and the difficult choices we make when duty and our hearts pull us in different directions. Every twist kept me invested, and the pacing never let up.

The world-building is immersive without becoming overwhelming, making it approachable whether you're a longtime sci-fi fan or just starting to explore the genre. The relationships between the characters add warmth and humor, giving the story an emotional core that makes the action hit even harder.

If you enjoy character-driven science fiction with witty banter, compelling moral dilemmas, and a plot that keeps you turning pages late into the night, Chaotic Orbits deserves a spot on your TBR. Beth Revis has crafted another unforgettable space adventure that reminds us that even in the most chaotic corners of the universe, hope and connection can still shine through.

[Elena Lavanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re craving a sci-fi escape that is deeply entertaining without being overly dense, the Chaotic Orbit trilogy hits the absolute sweet spot. Having just finished the final book, I can safely say that the momentum doesn't falter for a single second across the entire series. Right from the start, the author sets a brilliant tone through the dedications and epigraphs; they are absolute gems of irony and sagacity that make you appreciate the writer's sharp wit before the chapters even begin.
The overarching story delivers pure intergalactic Ocean’s Eleven vibes, wisely trading heavy romance for high-stakes heists and a non-stop surge of adrenaline. What makes the narrative dynamic truly unique is the "crew." Instead of a massive ensemble of specialists, the entire operation rests on the shoulders of a single protagonist. She is absolutely phenomenal—genius, audacious, and completely limitless.
Watching her pull off the impossible while navigating sharp plot twists at every single turn keeps the energy incredibly high from the first page to the very last. It’s a clever, fast-paced, and genuinely fun ride that manages to remain a light, accessible read while keeping you completely hooked on the edge of your seat even beyond the trilogy's conclusion.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a NetGalley eARC of this book.

I love the relationship between Ada and Rian SO much! In this re-release, we get all three Chaotic Orbits books bundled together, plus an additional short story from Rian's perspective. The first three stories were rereads for me, but it was fun to go back through each story knowing Ada's end game the whole time. I really enjoyed Ada's perspective throughout the first three stories, and how she knowingly leaves gaps in the narrative so that the reader has to puzzle out her actual motivations and actions. It feels very much like an unreliable narrator/who-done-it (albeit without murder), and her high-stakes heists keep the plot engaging. Ada and Rian's slow burn romance/banter are extremely fun, and the cat-and-mouse game they have going on is charming. The new short story, set after the the events of the first three, gives a glimpse into a new escapade between Rian and Ada. I wish that it had been a whole adventure rather than just the set up for one. Keep the Ada and Rian exploits coming, Beth Revis!

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

Chaotic Orbits follows Ada as she schemes her way across the galactic system, all while resisting the growing tension between her and Rian, the officer trying to corner her every move.

This omnibus of the three novellas is gorgeous and a great way to experience Ada and Rian’s full story! I initially read the novellas when they came out, and they were such fun reads. Beth Revis did an amazing job crafting the Sci-Fi world in these short stories. The story was fast-paced and there were unexpected turns, but we still got to know the characters intimately to understand what’s at stake. Ada was definitely my favorite—I love a strong, confident FMC! Her romance with Rian was built on banter and the tension created by the circumstances of the plot. While I enjoyed the romantic elements, I was expecting a little bit more! Out of the three novellas, the last one felt the weakest, but it did wrap up the overall story arc.

Overall, I loved it and I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a high stakes, Sci-Fi adventure.

Thank you to Netgalley and DAW for an ARC!

[Jenna Russo · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Thank you to DAW Books & NetGalley for the ARC!

Fast-paced and high stakes right from the start. I immediately loved the FMC Ada’s snarky, sarcastic persona and her banter with the MMC Rian. Coming off of reading Murderbot, I found myself again immersed in an outer space adventure, but this time with complex character dynamics and a wild love story.

Book 1 held a gentle reminder that life is truly a miracle, some things in life are just beyond our control, and that we should take pleasure in what we do have right here and now.

Book 2 took a bit to pick up momentum,
but once it did I was hooked. Book 3 nicely tied it all together and made for a fun read.

Overall:
The writing and prose was incredibly easy to digest and made for an addicting reading experience - to say I flew through these 400+ pages and could not put it down is an understatement. Interested to read more by Beth Revis!

I read this book voluntarily and all opinions are my own.

[The_reading_kit ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

📢 Shamelessly promoting 📢

Ｃｈａｏｔｉｃ ｏｒｂｉｔｓ by @bethrevis

I got this #arc through @netgalley from @dawbooks and I can’t thank them enough!

The characters in this space heist grow on you: Ada is one cool spiteful space girl, Rian is a law abiding gouvernment eco lover.
Their contrast gives the best banter and tension.
The cause is all too real, as is the antagonist.

Beth writes about STEM topics the way I now want to be a scientist: with ease and wit. You get shoved in eight in the middle of the action and immediately you're on the edge of your seat!

The turns and twists in these novellas (yes, 3, and a little something extra at the end that has me hoping, pleading, begging there will be more of these characters?) you get addicted to these before you realise it.

Go, preorder or buy (launch is August,4)! So worth it!!

5☆ 🎇🫶

XO, Kit

[Monsi A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ I am so excited to see this Sci-Fi romantic novella series finally in a completed omnibus! It does really well in the world building while making it easily digestible and not overwhelming for how quickly we move through the story. The heist plot is a lot of fun with some surprises here and there, and I was obsessed with the yearning between the two main characters.

The third part in the trilogy is the one that I personally felt was the weakest. I think I was just expecting a little bit more to finishing off the series. However, I still think these are great for a sci-fi romantic quick read!

Thank you so much to DAW for the gifted omnibus edition of the Chaotic Orbits series in exchange for an honest review!

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved these novellas when I read them last year and had wished there was more - and now there is! The tension and cat-and-mouse chase between Ada and Rian is delightful and the three locations are fun and exciting in this quick-moving space opera. The ending of the third novella was open-ended, so I appreciated the new story from Rian's point of view but that ending! I hope more is coming from these two as they continue their adventure across the galaxy. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys con-person/rule follower romances, with a dash of justice and adventure.

Thank you to DAW and NetGalley for a review copy. All opinions are my own.

[✨ gabi ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ 3,75 rounded up

Oh, this was a fun read. The marketing says people who enjoy Martha Wells would enjoy this and they are indeed right. This has the very same "fuck it, we ball" energy, which makes it wickedly entertaining.

Both the main characters are quite interesting and the story manages to never let up on the high-energy pacing but not feel rushed. Each part (the book is a compilation of the Chaotic Orbits trilogy) feels complete by itself, but the overarching mysteries make sure the stakes don't feel too chill. What would be a sci-fi without a world or another on the line? The second book/part is the highlight, no doubts about it. The story and the writing style both benefit from the tight constricts of time and space.

Still, overall is a very enthralling, but quick read. Super recommended it!

[A M “VegasBookDragon” Van Eaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. You will love this book if you enjoy romance and science fiction with a good dash of humor. I found Ada and Rian to be interesting characters and their interactions give me Firefly vibes. The plot of the three books and additional short story is part caper, part chaos, and part slow-developing relationship. The voicing of Ada is right up my alley. The elements of Science Fiction within these stories make them very accessible to readers newer to the genre.

#ChaoticOrbits #NetGalley #DAW
Thank you to DAW for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.