The Book of Adjórde: AKASHA

by A.J. Alford, Ralph Samson (Photographer), Maylor Mummert (Illustrator)

The Book of Adjórde: Akasha is a gripping science fantasy novel set on a distant frozen planet where ice is more than survival, it's control.

Sixteen-year-old Akasha is a Miner, sent from Earth as an infant to harvest ice on the unforgiving planet of Adjórde. Raised under strict rules (don’t speak, don’t feel, and never question), he’s spent his life following orders in silence. But when his closest friend vanishes without a trace, Akasha begins to uncover chilling secrets buried beneath the ice: a hidden journal, forbidden knowledge, and the quiet roots of something even more dangerous... magic.

As he draws closer to the truth, Akasha forms an uneasy alliance with two unlikely companions. Together, they begin to question the world they’ve been forced to serve. And when they uncover long-suppressed elemental powers within themselves, Akasha must decide: remain obedient, or embrace a rebellion that could cost them everything.

Perfect for fans of survival sci-fi, elemental magic, and emotionally rich worldbuilding, The Book of Adjórde: Akasha is the gripping beginning of a trilogy about identity, control, and what it means to resist in a world that demands your obedience.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Dystopia

317 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

About the author

A.J. Alford writes character-driven science fantasy and contemporary fiction with emotional depth, immersive worldbuilding, and a spark of rebellion. Her debut series, The Book of Adjórde, blends elemental magic, found family, and dystopian resistance into a genre-bending journey of self-discovery and survival.

When not writing, A.J. is a mother, wife and spiritualist. She's probably researching obscure science, building fictional governments, or reworking a sentence for the tenth time. She believes in diversity, quiet strength, and stories that crack open the dark to let the light in.

Reviews

[KMart Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars, rounded up.

This blends science fiction and fantasy into such a unique story and setting! This book starts with a fascinating ancient prologue, followed by a leap 700 years into the future, and the effect is wonderfully disorienting. We’re thrown into a world that’s both slightly familiar and wholly alien, unsure what went wrong but compelled to find out.

We follow Akasha, a young ice miner raised to obey without question. What begins as quiet obedience slowly unravels into a mystery full of forbidden knowledge, fascinating elemental magic, and a small-scale rebellion that slowly builds. All of these characters are complex, layered, and quietly compelling as they struggle in an oppressive system. Akasha’s journey from silence to rebellion is beautifully handled, and the magic system feels refreshingly different from typical elemental magic.

This is a book that wants you to sit with it, to feel the cold, the weight of obedience, and the quiet stirrings of rebellion. It does a great job of letting readers feel everything happening. It’s a slow burn, more introspective than action-packed (until things escalate!), but that’s part of its charm. The atmosphere is heavy with secrets and mystery, and Alford lets the tension build slowly until things come to a head.

Thoughtful, atmospheric, and quietly powerful. This is a really striking start to what feels like a very special series. I hope things get even bigger and darker in the next books!

Thank you to the author for the complimentary review copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

YES! I don't read much YA but I'm a sucker for an awesome cover. The story does a good job of interweaving the backstory with the prologue and then dropping bits of just through out since the current story takes place 700 years after the prologue. Sci-fi plus magic which I always love. And the pacing slowly gets faster and faster like when your heart rate kicks up, and you're watching the unread pages dwindle and you just need to KNOW.
And as soon as I finished I hopped on TT to go bug the author about book 2

[A.J. Alford]

After more than five years of planning, plotting, and writing, here it is. The story of my heart.

Along the way I became sure of two things: I prefer the use of the Oxford comma, and I want this book to be one that unites all readers.

I’m working to become the exception in publishing, and I welcome any and all feedback, positive and critical. I will grow from it, and so will Akasha.

Welcome to The Book of Adjórde, Book One: Akasha.

A.J.

[LiteraryGamer · Rating 3 out of 5]

You know that feeling when everyone loves something but you, and so you just feel like a butthead? That’s how I feel right now.

I wanted to finish this book and have a completely different feeling than I do, for multiple reasons. The premise of this book is very different, which I’ll get into, the author is indie and passionate, and it would have felt amazing to be pulled in by this writing. I hoped this book would have a grip on me, and unfortunately it didn’t.

The ideas and imagination of the author are stellar, I think there is a great, much longer and fleshed out story to tell. The idea of a planet completely bathed in darkness except for weak moonlight gave me serious 𝑇𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐾𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑑𝑜𝑚 vibes when Link is down in the Depths. However, I felt like I was simply dumped in the middle of a storyline and left to figure it out. I get it, but I also have so many questions. I understand the messages of oppression and resistance, I get the power imbalances, but the storytelling wasn’t selling it for me.

Akasha and all children ages 1-18 live on an ice planet where they’ve been trained to be obedient, never question anything, and to work the ice, cutting it to send it back to New-Earth. (I don’t want to spoil where there’s a New-Earth vs. Earth, but it involves portals and manipulating space.)

As far as I could find in the book, there is no reason given for forcing children to do this work specifically, probably because Akasha doesn’t know or fully understand. Why would you send weak children and not full grown adults with muscles? When one of the kids goes missing, Akasha decides to investigate, pulls in others, and stumbles into more than he could’ve imagined.
Personally, there is a frustrating lack of understanding throughout the entire book, as if I started on book 2 of a series.

An elemental magic system is introduced, but honestly, I was so lost in the whys and hows of everything, it didn’t pique my interest. I don’t feel like I got to know anyone in this book beyond a surface level caring, which left me pretty unemotional about anything happening. None of the characters really seemed like they had any life in them, or chemistry with others. Maybe because the rules on this planet are such that you aren’t allowed to form deep friendships. Why? No explanation.

The back of the book says the person going missing is Akasha’s ‘closest friend,’ but you could’ve fooled me. The words are there, but there’s a lack of depth, nothing really pulled me in and made me want to keep reading. I finished because it was short and didn’t take longer than a day.

I hope to see more of this author, she is inclusive, there’s queer representation, and I LOVE that. There are plenty of authors who have written books I didn’t jive with, but others I’ve fallen head-over-heels for. A.J. Alford is on my radar, and I shall watch her career with great interest.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good read! Fast-paced, engaging, and a diverse cast of characters. The environment is so unique and you discover more about the world right alongside the characters. Can't wait for book 2!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal read!
Ok - 5 stars! This is a YA fantasy book with magic systems and BIG world building. It’s a slow build up; and then an explosion of energy and action happens mid way until the end.

Let’s talk about the world building because A.J. Alford does such a superb job at building this world for you in an icy fry tomb. When I tell you… I FELT the cold coming out of this book in the way this ice planet is described. “The planet never warms. The sky is always dark, and the cold never lets up.” I felt myself shiver every time Akasha’s mask would fall down as if the chill was skirting my own neck.
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Magic systems - aren’t unlike most elemental systems. You have Earth, Wind, Fire, Water, and Ether. However in this world they are not taught or nurtured in the young.
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You begin to learn the daily routines of the miners and how dull it really is. One bit of knowledge outside of the authorized is enough this send this kid into realms he never believed existed. Secrets become unraveled and strange things start to happen. Unlikely friendships turn into bonds that cannot be broken but are severely tested on their journey to find out the truth.
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BRAVO!!!! A.J. Alford, this was such a wild ride. I’m very excited for the next book New Earth.

[Sophi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Read!!

Akashi lives on a planet that is dark and icy at all times. His whole life he has worked as a Miner breaking the ice up so that it can be transported to New Earth. When his friend Junior Elder Shosk goes missing everything changes. Akashi starts experiencing strange panic attacks and is disappearing in plain sight. He decides he wants to leave this cold and dark planet but upon making his plans learns about the history of why there are Elders and Miners.

This book was a great quick read for me and I can see it hitting the shelves and being compared to Avatar but with a Sci-Fi feel. It also reminds me of Divergent with Factions being used. I love the diversity that is represented in the main character the idea of warping space. I don’t get to read too many male main characters and it was nice to see. Love the world building as well. It was well put together along with the different characters. Can’t wait to see more with the characters in the next read!

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very first page, "The Book of Adjorde: Akasha" throws you into a richly imagined world full of magic, and ancient secrets. The story builds steadily, picking up speed as it layers mysteries that leave you itching to learn more. The author leaves unanswered questions and ends on a brilliant cliffhanger that leaves you desperate for the next release. The male main character is uniquely written and doesn’t show the same energy as others I’ve read. I’d definitely recommend the book!

[Nolan Robinson · Rating 2 out of 5]

TikTok recommendations have been doing me so dirty lately. I really wanted to love this one, but it fell short in too many ways.

The writing was my biggest issue. The author repeatedly relies on vague words like "thing," "things," and "something" in place of actual description, which left me feeling distanced from the story rather than immersed in it. Lines like *"Something steadies in her eye,"* *"Not with wind or storm but with something deeper, something alive,"* and *"Like the beat of something I've always carried inside me"* sound evocative on the surface but don't actually tell you anything. It reads like a first draft that needed another round of editing.

My other major frustration was the lack of follow-through on key character moments. Several times, characters have conversations the main character can't hear, and the story never makes it clear how those conversations affect her or move the plot forward. For example, Faeya is pulled away for hours, comes back visibly upset and in tears, and it's just... never addressed. Moments like that kept pulling me out of the story.

The pacing was also off for me. The book leaned heavily on mystery and atmosphere, but I would have traded some of that slow burn for more action and power fights rather than waiting until the very end for two underwhelming confrontations.

**Spoilers below:**

The villains always conveniently finding the characters felt lazy. There's also a scene where they're in a desperate rush to reach a ship — yet they abandon a perfectly usable truck for no apparent reason. And the ending felt genuinely incomplete. I think it was meant to be a cliffhanger, but it landed more like the story just stopped.

The space-based power system is interesting, and the concept of a planet in complete darkness felt genuinely unique. But unfortunately, that wasn't enough to make me want to pick up the second book.

[E. Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

My personal verdict is that A.J. Alford has successfully stripped the "Power Fantasy" out of high fantasy, replacing it with the brutal logic of a survival thriller. She executes a blueprint of "Atmospheric Siege," where the environment isn't just a setting—it is the primary antagonist. The sensory deprivation in the prose is unrelenting; you don't just read about the cold, you feel the suffocation of a world where darkness is absolute. It is a masterclass in environmental immersion that forces the reader to acclimatize to the planet’s lethal rhythm just as the characters must.

Structurally, the novel’s brilliance lies in its inversion of power. In a traditional narrative, a protagonist with Akasha's ability to manipulate Ether would be a superhero by the third chapter; here, his power is treated as a terrifying liability. We watch a character who is afraid of his own potential, hiding his light because, in a system of manufactured darkness, being a beacon doesn't make you a savior—it makes you a target. This creates a rare tension where you aren't reading to see him conquer, but simply to see if he can survive his own awakening.

Ultimately, this is a narrative about "Systemic Horror," proving that the most terrifying monsters aren't beasts, but the bureaucrats who decide which children are expendable. The "Foremen" and "Elders" operate with a cold, industrial efficiency that makes the oppression feel hauntingly real. If you are looking for a whimsical adventure, look elsewhere. But if you want a cerebral, atmospheric rebellion that reads like Avatar: The Last Airbender: gritty, industrial, and visually stunning—then Akasha is a mandatory, transformational addition to your library.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall the book was a bit slow. It’s like the characters and plot was devoid of emotion, I found myself having to push myself to read it. The main character, Akasha, was supposed to be keeping to himself but was then creating mischief while pretending to be to himself. One thing that stood out as a contradiction was finding the journal and then wanting to know what was being hidden from everyone. Eventually he was given an offer to be on the inside of the inner workings but he says that’s not of importance to him. Meanwhile that was the whole plot of the story I thought, figuring out what’s being hidden.

I think this book was extremely well written and perfectly edited, it’s just the story seemed to be lacking emotion which would have tied everything together. The first 100+ pages nothing really happened for the most part. There was a lot of repetition in day to day events, very anti-climatic. At most this book could have been anywhere from 175-210 pages tops if you cut the unnecessary repetition, and 210 is pushing it. Oddly enough I have a feeling that the next book in the series might be better but this one was a 3.8 rating for me.

I recommend you read it but make sure you read the next installment because I feel like this first book was the ground work for what’s to come.

[Angelica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐
I came across the author on Tiktok when she was promoting this book earlier this year and I was intrigued so I decided to buy it. It was on my TBR for months and finally I decided that this month was the month I would get it done, and I'm glad I did.

I came into this with the expectation that it was like Avatar the Last Airbender, but I think it's fair to say that this is it's own concept. It's not quite sci-fi and not quite fantasy but somehow both, which was honestly refreshing. 

Distant Earth, evironmental catastrophes, elemental magic, government conspiracy, off world exploration, an entirely diverse cast of POC characters, and queer representation.

Alford has a way of introducing characters and getting the reader to care about them in a short period of time while also leaving them shrowded in mystery. There are so many things I still want to know! 

Overall, I genuinely enjoyed The Book of Adjórde: AKASHA and I hope The Book of Adjórde: NEW EARTH comes out in the near future!

[Syn McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark tale, but this book will keep you sucked in

This scifi/fantasy book by an independent author is the second one I've read this year that is better than many traditionally published books. While most of the story takes place in the bitter cold, (and you'll feel like you're unrelentingly living through the experience), the storytelling is incredible. Akasha is a main character you'll be hooked on immediately, and pull for during the entire book. Faeya is appealing and fiery of spirit, and steadfast Kahra determined to keep your loyalty. The concepts are incredibly original, the pacing well written. I found myself eager to return to the book and had difficulty putting it down. Highly recommended!

[Maya Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Book of Adjórde: Akasha pulled me in from the first page. The frozen world of Adjórde feels harsh, lonely, and strangely beautiful, and Akasha’s quiet, rule bound life makes the mystery at the heart of the story even more gripping. His journey from obedient Miner to someone willing to question everything is emotional and believable.
I especially loved the slow uncovering of secrets the missing friend, the hidden journal, and the hints of forbidden magic buried under the ice. The alliances he forms feel raw and real, full of tension and hope. By the time the elemental powers come into play, the story shifts into something bigger and even more exciting.
It’s a blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and rebellion that kept me turning pages. A cold world, a warm heart, and a story worth diving into.

[Sammi Shane · Rating 4 out of 5]

huge major thank you to A.J. Alford for sending me an ebook copy of this book after I had trouble with Libby.

3.75☆ In my opinion, this story took a little bit too long to get started. I was really pushing myself to get into it and pick it up until about 27% of the way through. However, once the world was established and the history was no longer the focal point and we were following Akasha's discoveries I didn't want to put it down.

I am simultaneously really looking forward to the next book, and a little bit disappointed that the sneak peak for the next book doesn't check in with characters than I already know and care about. I know once we get back with the characters from this book I'll be so in it.

[Marcey Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a BOOK! Oh my gosh. This was such a fresh and intriguing story. I adored literally every page of it.
On a world of ice, children under 18 are made to mine blocks of ice until they’re able to return to earth. The issue? A lady from 700 years ago ripped a void (2 actually, but whose counting 😂) anyway the balance is disturbed and to fix the water crisis, miners spend their days cutting ice to send back but when people start disappearing and a journal is found, Akosha has to discern its meaning and find a way to right the wrongs of people he never knew about.
I cannot wait for book two! Great story!

[Jaymes Wade · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! A thrilling, dystopian science-fantasy about a young queer Black boy waking up. I enjoyed the magic and world building, and the emotional journey Akasha went on. There's a great mystery at the heart of the story, that pulls the reader forward and the writing reads like a film. Alford handles all the confusion and unfolding with a deft hand and leaves us with a satisfying ending, wanting more. I can't wait to read future installments in this series. Definitely a new voice worth watching.

[Sean Kuchman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. I just finished it and I'm reeling.

Characters that you instantly love or hate, a richly crafted world, and a mystery that unfolds with layer upon layer of intrigue.

Akasha could be any of us. Struggling against a system designed to keep workers trapped, the truth buried behind rules and punishments that feel unnecessary and arbitrary.

This is right up at the top of my list with The Broken Earth trilogy by NK Jemisin. Do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK!! I cannot wait for more!

Thank you, AJ. This was a wild, enjoyable ride.

[Debbie miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book is an amazing immersive story with incredible world building and character development!! i absolutely love the way the story unfolds. the amount of information you get through out it is perfect in my opinion just enough to make you want to keep reading but not so much that you figure out what is really going on before you are suppose too. 10 out of 10 would recommend!!!!!!!

[Samantha Keeney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much that I bought copies as Christmas presents for all my nieces. The storytelling and world building is amazing. There are a lot of complex topics that are addressed very well. I’m just starting to get feedback from my nieces and they all loved it. I can’t wait for the next books.

[Rebecca Fletcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

I loved this book! This isn’t the genre I normally read but I found the author on TT and said, hey why not. I’m so glad I did. A new take on elemental magic, with fantastic characters. I can’t wait for book 2!

[Heather Shower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sci-fi + magic + rebellion = obsessed. The worldbuilding is insane, the tension had my heart racing, and Akasha is a character you can’t stop rooting for. Perfect binge read!!! I need book two NOW!!!!!!

[Heather Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing read with a unique magic system I am eager to continue exploring.

A coming of age tale in a world where nothing is exactly as it seems.

I enjoyed the rich history woven into the tale helping guide you along the path beside Akasha and his friends.

[Angela Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing!! It had a slow deliberate world building then it sky rocketed into non stop action. There are so many memorable quotes especially in the last half it is a fantastic. I can't wait for the next book I need it now!!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great adventure read

This is a good start to an exciting dystopian world. I can’t wait for the rest of the series. The characters have real heart and feelings. The plot is believable and the world is well built.

[Sharon Schroeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a work of heart! I’m so excited for book 2!

[Alanté Delores · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is WOW! First learned about this book on Tik Tok and decided to give it a chance. The writing is so beautiful, and the story is well fleshed out. Can't wait for book 2

[BridgetIsLit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last Airbender meets Red Rising. I am excited for the rest of the trilogy

[SAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story, easy to read. I found a nice balance with character development and story progression. I look forward to the next book in the series

[Carolina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a really good and easy read for those that are wanting to start their reading journey! I really liked that the writer was able to create so much story within a majority of one environmental setting! The characters are very different in personality and I love the creativity of the plot! Overall very good book can’t wait to see if there’s more.