To Save a Broken Nebula

United Planetary Systems #2

by Qilanna Quinn

YOU CAN'T STOP FATE. NOT WHEN IT'S REWRITING YOU.

Six weeks after the battle at Zion, Gemma Proctor is alive but not untouched. The implant in her spine is the only thing holding the change inside her at bay—and it’s failing. Desperate for answers, Gemma returns to the alien temple that started it all. But what she finds there isn’t a cure. It’s something far worse. Because whatever is inside her isn’t just spreading. It’s evolving.

While Gemma fights to hold onto herself, Christian is sent back into the depths of Perileos to hunt down what remains of the Dissent—and the leader now rising in its wake. But the deeper he goes, the more his past begins to close in. And by the time he makes it back to Zion, everything has changed. Gemma is no longer just a survivor. She’s a target.

Now forced into hiding among former enemies, Gemma and Christian are running out of time. Because the more her power grows, the less control she has. And the next time she loses it, she may not be able to come back. Not to herself. Not to him.

With the fate of an entire city hanging in the balance, Gemma is left with one impossible choice: hold onto what remains of her humanity… or become the very thing that could save them all.

TO SAVE A BROKEN NEBULA is the sequel to TO AVENGE A FALLEN STAR and the final installment in Gemma’s duology. Get ready for brutal battles, devastating emotion, and a romance that lingers long after the final page.

This book is recommended for readers aged 18+.

Genres: Science Fiction

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 31, 2026

About the author

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Qilanna Quinn is an author of sci-fi and fantasy romance that lean into the dark, where light shines brightest.

She grew up near Akron, OH, where she learned to read by the age of four and wrote her first piece of fiction in just the fourth grade. Since then, she’s always had her face in a book and has grown to especially love stories that lean into the dark, where light always shines brightest.

Now, she lives in SW Florida with her fur baby and spends her free time reading others’ books or playing one of her favorite instruments. Her obsessions include Star Wars, Doctor Who, ACOTAR, and Harry Potter, though any story with great characters, high stakes, and a little romance will excite her every time.

Reviews

[Brilynn O'Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alpha review. If the final version is better than this version (which I know it will be), then you all are in for a great time! Christian is still one of my favorite MMCs. He’s one of the most supportive and sexy badass’s out there. This book is full of rebellion, found family, excellent sci-fi elements, romance (with spice that is 🥵), action, and even a sprinkle of magic and myth. Watch out romantasy, romanti-sci (is that right? 🤣) is coming for you.

[Brave · Rating 4 out of 5]

A few weird pacing complaints of mine here but still a good ending to the story! I think if the book had been a bit longer, with more time to breathe and develop some moments, I would've given it 5 stars. That said, I could literally never write a book at all, so what the hell do I know?

I remain loving these characters and I'll never forgive Qilanna for the ending :)

Received the ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... Just wow... This book has left me speechless. It is so, so good and I'm most definitely going to be thinking about this for days on end. I absolutely loved everything about this and was more than thrilled to be able to continue the journey with Gemma and the gang. Qilanna, you once again have outdone yourself. Thank you for entrusting me with Beta reading this for you! Keep being amazing!! So much love and support, my sweet friend!

[Leanna Streeter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a strong finale to the duology, and I’m really glad I picked it up. I was pulled right back into this world from the start, and it delivered on everything I was hoping for.

The romance was one of my favorite parts of this book. Gemma and Christian just work. There is so much heart in their relationship, and I loved watching them fight for each other through everything thrown their way. It felt genuine and earned, especially with everything at stake.

The found family in this story is absolutely one of its biggest strengths. Those relationships added so much depth and emotion, and they made the harder moments hit even more. You can really feel the loyalty and the love between the characters.

I also really enjoyed the adventure aspect of the story. There’s a constant sense of movement and urgency, and the world building continues to expand in a way that keeps things interesting without ever feeling overwhelming.

Overall, this was a really satisfying conclusion that is full of action, emotion, and characters I truly enjoyed spending time with. Definitely a series I’m glad I read.

[Jenn Grand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beta read this masterpiece. Omg. Y’all are NOT ready for this book. If you thought book 1 was good, get ready to go back to Perileos (am I spelling that right?) and fall in love all over again with your faves. Can’t say anything else, 🤐 but just know, it’s GREAT to be back.

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Save a Broken Nebula was the perfect sequel and the finale its predecessor, To Avenge a Fallen Star, needed. I was instantly transported back into this world, and everything seemed familiar yet simultaneously exciting. The action took my breath away the entire time, but so did the romance and the perfectly imperfect found family.

Oh, trust me, I cried, I raged, I shed tears of joy, and it was all worth it. I loved seeing the characters evolve, change, doubt themselves, yet still push through. I loved seeing the fire, the need, and the will to protect those who couldn't protect themselves. The desire to finally bring freedom and peace to the people of Perileos. And even when everything seemed lost, they persevered.

But what I loved most was witnessing the revolt and the dissent (pun intended) against the oppressors. Living in the times we do, I think we need to see more of that. It's inspirational and aspirational.

Qilanna truly did a magnificent job with the Gemma duology, and I couldn't be prouder to be part of her street team. I'm sure there is so much waiting for us, so much exploration left to do, and more liberation to come.

[Tabytha Boozenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the absolute pleasure of beta reading and ARC. I loved seeing the changes and cannot wait for what comes next!

I have loved Gemma's from the beginning and to see the way it came to an end was both heartbreaking and beautiful.

And working with Qilanna on the beta read was amazing, she is one of the sweetest people I have met along this journey.

[bookish206 · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Whatever the price, Gem, I will gladly pay it. Because I'd rather burn at your side than live safe without you."

Omg! This book! This book had me reeling in the best way. Did I laugh and snark at the banter? Yes. Did I swoon and gasp at the spice? Hell yeah! Did I unexpectedly tear up and need tissues at the dentist waiting for my mom? Yes. Yes, I did! Qilanna, I hate crying in public! You had me on an emotional roller coaster that I didn’t want to get off from. I’m so sad that this is the end of your duology because I’ve become so invested in not only the main characters, but the side characters as well. The characters are all well written and incredibly detailed. I feel like I'm a part of their found family!

I thought the first book, To Avenge A Fallen Star (United Planetary Systems, Gemma #1), was freaking ahhmazing. Guys, To Save A Broken Nebula (Gemma #2), is even better-unputdownable! You know how the sequel usually doesn't compare to the OG? Well, this time it was done right. Qilanna, gave us more angst, longing, spice, banter, higher stakes-all the things. If you are looking for a duology that will keep you guessing, wreck you, and then slowly mend the pieces of your heart-I got you. To Save a Broken Nebula is nothing like I've ever read and I am still thinking about it.

To Save A Broken Nebula starts up six weeks after where we left off in book one. It's the aftermath of the Dissent's unsuccessful revolt and the Systems has regained control. Gemma has been dealing with her newly found powers with Christian at her side. However, the two are torn apart as Gemma and a team goes back to the temple in search of a cure; while Christian and another team heads to Perileos in search of the rest of the Dissent. What transpires could be the end to everything they know. Will these two find their way back to each other? At what costs?

Thank you Qilanna for this gifted arc copy. This is my honest review. I can't leave without showing love for her dedication:

"For my abusive ex, who inspired Christian Holm-because he's the total opposite of you and actually knows how to love and treat a woman."

Tag: Sci-Fi Dystopian Romace, Completed Duology, Dystopian Sci-Fi Duology, RomantaSci
#qilannaquinn #tosaveabrokennebula #arcreview #romantisci

[Kaitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He’d wear the uniform. He’d play the role. He’d earn their trust one nod, one salute, one lie at a time. And then he’d tear down every wall between her and freedom. It didn’t matter anymore what the Systems promised him. He wouldn’t stop fighting until he had her.”

Oh Christian, you are the very best book boyfriend! I just couldn’t get over how much I loved this line. Time and time again he supports and roots for Gemma with no hesitation—just absolute love and trust. As she absolutely deserves!

Gemma really needed all of that in this book. I loved watching her transformation unfold as we learned more about what happened to her in the alien ruins and what exactly she was turning into. Her story is deeply emotional and I really felt for her, especially towards the end. There were parts of both Gemma and Christian’s story that I was really hoping for and I am so happy that I got to see those things play out as the book wrapped up.

Without spoiling, I have to say this book had everything I wanted. Ancient aliens and secrets, rebels against a tyrannical government, amazing found family vibes and a supportive and beautiful romance.

Thank you Qilanna for giving me an early copy of this book.

[Chelbie Lane · Rating 4 out of 5]

A transcendent Sci-Fi romance with action, betrayal and a found family that tugs at your heartstrings. This was soo fun!

I’ve ARC read both books now and I am so happy I signed up for them. Sci-Fi is Qillana’s specialty & she does it so very well. The world she has created is so intricate and data driven to the point that it’s wholly otherworldly but makes total sense all the same.

Gemma was relatable, a kind bleeding heart & a strong as* FMC! I really enjoyed her growth and ability to adapt to her circumstances. She never truly gave up & gave all of herself to keep those she loved safe.

Christian, was as advertised: a cinnamon roll MMC. He was devoted, understanding and supportive til the end, even when he had his own hardships plaguing him.

Together; along with Hawk, Imara, Lysa & others - they fought for a better life without corruption & it was riveting to read!

✨Thank you so much Q for the early ARC copy!✨

[Rosieee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutley loved book one and To Save a Broken Nebula is a perfect sequel. We are still in a sci-fi, remote solar system setting, post-Earth, high stakes, etc, etc. Gemma is trying to hold onto herself as pieces of who she is begin to slip away. Christian is on a path of making peace with his past and feeling whole - and he is definitely tested along the way. As a couple, they blend so well together and are just so sweet. The choices they face, surrounded by their found family, feel cruicial to both their sanity and their civilization. Absolutley loved this one!
- Sci-fi and romance
- Rebellion
- Found family
- Diverse and dynamic cast of characters
- Action, adventure, quests
- Part 2 of a duology

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book should be called “To Save a Broken Heart”, because I was seriously heartbroken, and not just once. This conclusion of the duology explores Gemma’s mental and physical evolution after the orb event. Her desperation and vulnerabilities are put to the forefront. She is so lucky to have her found family! I kept waiting for Christian’s red flags… well, read to see what they are or if there are any. The two of them are perfect. But I wish I could know more about Gemma’s experience.

[Misty Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!

"Whatever the price, Gem, I will gladly pay it. Because I'd rather burn at your side than live safe without you."

I can't get enough of this duology. I devoured this one as fast as I did the first one. I love the relationship between Gemma and Christian. They just melt my cold and cynical heart. The banter between everyone adds just the right touch of humor. I'm actually sad that this is just a 2 book duology because I need more! One of my top favorite sci-fi series so far.

[Amber Myers · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this exciting end to Gemma's duology, the crew from the first book embark on separate journeys to weed out the Dissent members and to learn more about the orb that changed Gemma. However, they all find that things aren't as black and white as expected and have to fight to get back to each other.

The pacing in this book felt a little off to me, as did some of the storyline. I didn't feel overly attached to any of the characters. Overall, it had some exciting pieces, interesting twists, and likeable characters but just didn't leave me wowed.

[DianaKay Abraham · Rating 5 out of 5]

No notes. This was a PHENOMENAL book. I loved it. I had goosebumps reading and my god, this passage alone:

"He’d spent his whole life learning how to fight through pain. This was no different. He’d wear the uniform. He’d play the role. He’d earn their trust one nod, one salute, one lie at a time. And then he’d tear down every wall between her and freedom."

5 stars, no contest, just like Gemma, this book is a gemstone.

[Kate13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent conclusion to Gemma's story.

This book was just as heart-clutching, non-put-down-able as the first. Even more in love with the characters, I couldn't wait to see how Gemma and Christian would continue their fight with Gemma's new, strange powers. I enjoyed getting to know the new characters, which added more tension to the overall story. I can't wait to read what Quinn writes next!

[Katelynn | booksareadoorway · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌌 "You can't stop fate. Not when it's rewriting you." 🌌

The absolute chokehold this duology has on me! 😭 After the chaos of To Avenge a Fallen Star, I was so ready (and yet completely unprepared) to dive back into Gemma and Christian’s world. If you love high stakes, sci-fi romance, deadly cinnamon roll MMCs, and a love story that genuinely feels like it would burn down the entire universe in order to protect it, you need to add this duology to your TBR immediately.

​Gemma & Christian’s dynamic had me swooning. Their connection is the beating heart of this entire story. The way Christian loves her, and the sheer desperation of Gemma trying to hold onto her humanity for him? Talk about chills. I am so deeply in love with these two.

And can we talk about how a character I absolutely despised somehow managed to get redeemed?! I didn't think it was possible, but the character growth in this sequel is next level.
Dystopian rebellion, alien abilities, and the found family trope are all done so well. The tension never lets up & kept me enthralled.

If you want a final installment that delivers brutal battles, devastating emotions, and a romance that lingers long after the final page, please go pick up Qilanna Quinn’s Gemma - United Planetary Systems duology!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is amazing! Highly recommended

Gemma and Christian relationship is phenomenal, Imara and Hawk also love them!

The world building is awesome, lots of action, intense moments and smexy scenes!

I already have book 1 and definitely going to get 2 from Qilanna's website!

[Shandie McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received from Author. This is an amazing book and what an ending. I had a really hard time putting this book down and was immediately sucked into the story. I cannot wait to read more from this author!

[Sean Halladay · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for sci-fi mixed with romance and a dose of rebels fighting a repressive government system from within, I strongly suggest reading this story, which is Part 2 of the United Planetary Systems duology.

The things I enjoyed most in this book were the love story between Gemma and Christian, the found family aspect, a long distance relationship of sorts, and a few of the twists along the way. The only things I didn’t enjoy were that this was the end of the story and that a favorite character didn’t make it to the end. I think there could be more to this universe so I hope that there is more coming in the future!

[TiffanyMarieTicer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great continuation of the duology! Get those tissues! This had it all action, love (🌶️🌶️🔥), grief, redemption, sacrifice, hate!

[Rachel Hanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read an early copy of this one!
To Save a Broken Nebula picks up after TAAFS while Gemma, Christian and crew are picking up the pieces from the battle at Zion. We get a new POV in this one with Christian which is just delicious. This story is full of depth and heart and those same ride-or-die themes of found family and finding one's place in the world. This story is fast-faced and full of action, an amazing conclusion to Gemma's story. Absolutely loved it!

[Jacob Gillett · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved part 2 of Gemma's duology! if you liked To Avenge A Fallen Star, you'll be excited to dive into this one to pick up with our crew to experience how they react to TAAFS's ending and plan their next moves.

Lots of action, twists, and banter!