The Dark Sun

by Cristine Keller

An unseen threat.
A military deception.
A catastrophe no one sees coming.

Military medic Pocky has been separated from her twin brother Thomas for eight years. But using him as unwitting bait in a military trap wasn't how she imagined they would reunite. Worse, it was her idea—and the lie weighs heavily on her conscience.

Rejected from military service, Lance has spent his life searching for where he belongs. When he joins a research project, he finally finds purpose alongside a team he quickly grows close to. But as strange events unfold, he begins to suspect the military protecting them has another agenda.

When the operation spirals out of control, a cascade of events reveals a mystery far larger than the research project that brought them together.

As impossible choices reshape their lives, one question remains:
What if the greatest threat isn’t the catastrophe... but the truth behind it?

Content note: This is a dark sci-fi thriller. This story contains violence, morally complex decisions, attempted sexual assault, references to sexual violence, and antagonists whose actions are intentionally disturbing.

Genres: Science Fiction

283 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2025

About the author

Curious about The Dark Sun?
Join The Dark Sun Readers Club and read the Prologue + Chapters 1-7 FREE: https://BookHip.com/RDZJGPJ

Cristine Keller writes character-driven dark sci-fi thrillers where impossible choices, found family, and ever-expanding mysteries collide. Her stories explore what people become when survival demands extraordinary moral choices.

Her debut novel, The Dark Sun, introduces readers to the planet Oxtaria, where military deception, catastrophic threats, and deeply human relationships intertwine. While readers come for the suspense, many stay because they fall in love with the characters—and keep turning pages to discover what happens next.

When she's not writing, Cristine enjoys talking with readers about storytelling, science fiction, and the characters that refuse to leave her imagination.

Reviews

[Sarah Kober · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow — what a shocker at the end! I did not see that coming. This story is a wild ride from start to finish. You begin wondering what’s happening, why it’s happening, and for what purpose, and by the end, every question is answered — with a plot twist no one will see coming.

It’s a dramatic, suspenseful story filled with emotional depth and complex relationships — some that feel familiar and others you’d never want to experience yourself. Without giving anything away, you’ll find yourself loving some characters and absolutely loving to hate others.

The author does an excellent job blending intense military sci-fi action with deeply personal moments. The pacing keeps you turning the pages, and the emotional undercurrents give the story real heart. The world-building feels vivid and believable, making you feel part of every mission and decision.

If you enjoy military sci-fi with a strong emotional core and unexpected twists, this one should definitely be on your radar. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[KMart Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wild, intense ride and I was not prepared for how quickly it pulled me in!

The world building is incredible and honestly kind of disturbing (complimentary). This one starts off with a bang to set the tone and I was here for it even as I was recoiling in horror. This is a universe where power is corrupt and danger is constant, even in places that you don't expect. It has this quality of creeping dread underneath all the sci-fi action that tips into genuine horror territory at points and I was absolutely here for it.

All of the characters are carrying something (scars, secrets, motivations that only reveal themselves over time) and that depth makes the emotional stakes feel heavy, which is something I appreciated. The psychological elements add this whole extra layer of suspense that kept me hooked and kept me guessing, and the twist genuinely surprised me.

I don't want to spoil anything about where this goes, but things shift in a direction I genuinely was not expecting. The twist surprised me, the world disturbs me in the best possible way, and this sits in this fascinating space between sci-fi thriller and horror. Intense, surprising, and very well written. I will absolutely be continuing this one.

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

[Sara Seitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a sci-fi with epic world-building, deep character development, juicy backstories, and a last-minute twist, all with a dark edge, I think you'll like this one!

[Raquel Brasil · Rating 5 out of 5]

**A gripping, imaginative blend of sci-fi, mythology, and military suspense.**

This book hooked me from the very first chapters. It centers on a specialized team drawn together under a military project, each member carrying a complex past and abilities that don’t quite fit within the boundaries of the world around them. The author balances high-stakes action with emotional depth, creating a story that feels both intensely personal and incredibly expansive.

One of the things I loved most is how the whole plot unfolds like a cosmic chess game—strategic, layered, and full of quiet moves happening just out of sight. The sense of mystery is constant, with mythological echoes woven into a modern setting in a way that feels fresh and atmospheric without ever giving too much away.

The world-building is smooth and immersive, and the character dynamics give the story real weight. There’s always the feeling that something larger is orchestrating events, and the tension builds beautifully as more pieces slide into place.

And then the ending arrives with a *brutal* cliffhanger—especially surrounding the twins - and I absolutely need the next book right now.

If you enjoy speculative fiction with military grit, mythic undertones, strong character work, and a slow-burn sense of something huge unfolding, this is one you shouldn’t miss. I can’t wait for the follow-up.

Raquel (The Ink Addicts Reads)

[Judy Kosbob Burke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really 3.5 and I'm stingy with stars. I am not a sci-fi dystopia fan. That said this book really grabbed me in the second half and you will finish wanting more. And the author says there will be more! (I had the honor of having lunch with her.) The book has a rough start but don't be put off. It's the only truly gross part. Sex scenes were tastefully inferred rather than stupidly graphic. I would totally recommend it if you like this genre. No fantasy like The Fourth Wing, which was a positive in my book.

[Pedro Baeta · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Sun is a gripping sci-fi dark fantasy hybrid that blends world-building, tension, and psychological intrigue into an addictive, cinematic read. Cristine opens the novel with a bold, unsettling prologue that sets the tone: this is a universe where power is corrupt, danger is ever-present, and the shadows hide more than they reveal. From the first pages, the book promises intensity.

What stands out most is the novel’s world-building, which is dense, imaginative, and refreshingly. Every region feels like a fully realized individual culture with their own histories, sociopolitical systems, and faults. Cristine never dumps information, she layers it, allowing the reader to gradually absorb the complexities of a world on the brink of something catastrophic.

The character work is equally compelling. The cast is drawn with careful depth, each carrying their own scars, motivations, and mysteries. The psychological elements, especially those involving subconscious realms, memory, and hidden truths, add a captivating layer of metaphysical suspense. The interplay between science, the supernatural, and the unknown creates a sense of dread and wonder all at once.

Cristine’s pacing is measured but purposeful. Early chapters build tension, laying groundwork for the emotional and existential stakes. But once the story gains momentum, it becomes increasingly difficult to stop reading. Twists arise not just from plot turns but from revelations about identity, purpose, and the strange cosmic forces governing this world.

If you enjoy:

richly built sci-fi worlds
morally dark antagonists
slowly unwinding mysteries
stories that blend science fiction with metaphysical and psychological elements

…then The Dark Sun is a standout addition to your shelf.

A dark, atmospheric, and immersive novel that sets the stage for what feels like an epic series to come.

[Tea_Reading_and_Oz · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I wasn't sure how this book was gonna go since the beginning was a bit off putting and took a while before it was explained but OMG this took a wild turn and now I need another or at least a short story to get an end to their final problem because that was a big cliff hanger that I NEED A RESOLUTION TO! But still I did actually really enjoy the book and the pacing, it kept me guessing as to how things would progress and what problems would be tackled first because more and more just kept going wrong. I also really enjoyed the slow burn that was one of the relationships and i was happy when it finally happened 😭. Really loved the whole groups dynamic besides one person but they honestly also didn't have enough time for me to really not like them so they get a pass lol. But loves it overall and need some kind of continuation!

[NinaInkdawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

When science fiction meets stories where every page is filled with military suspense. This book captivated me from the first pages with its kaleidoscope of characters that the writer outlines impeccably, each of them has a past they must deal with. This story is absolutely masterfully written and compelling and on every page you ask yourself: what will happen now? This book is worth reading for the sense of tension and mystery that permeates the entire book and keeps you constantly wanting to find out what will happen to our protagonists. I also loved Cristine because she never reveals too much... Like a game of poker. If you like complex but well-defined world building that makes you feel like you're inside the story and characters that fit together in a truly masterful way, you have to read The Dark Sun and after that ending I want the second book.

[Lizze · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars
Thank you to the author and Hidden Hollow for allowing me a chance to read and review this book.

This was a very intriguing story. I wasn't sure what to think after that prologue (it has a shocking event) and it took me a bit to get my bearings while reading but I quickly became engrossed in the characters, Pocky, Thomas and Lance. Each showing a different perspective of how they came to be where the main story takes place. Half way through, the story really picks up, as a reader, you learn more about the situation. I learned so much more then I was expecting. You learn that not everything is as it seems and everyone you know are not who they think they are. I was surprised how things progressed and look forward to seeing how the team proceeds from where things were left, especially with Pocky and Thomas.

This is a great sci-fi book and I highly recommend and can't wait for the next book.

[Kate Brasington · Rating 4 out of 5]

This ending left me reeling with that cliffhanger 😩🤌
This book focuses on a specialized team brought together by a military experiment and we get to figure out how they all come together and how complex each one of these characters are from their background stories.
I really loved the world building and sci-fi elements in this book!

[David Boevers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Sun is a masterclass in worldbuilding. Keller weaves together multiple technology worlds to produce one that reads as both fantasy and Scifi. The book also features an antagonist that will make your skin crawl. That said, this is a long haul read, so if you feel like you are getting stuck, keep reading. Keller will reward those who commit to the long read.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge scifi fan and I can honestly say I loved the book start to finish. It's based on a concept that I can't say as I've seen before. The story is compelling, the characters are lovingly crafted and feel very human.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Sun is a fascinating sci-fi thriller that builds a compelling and inventive world, delivering a very addictive read! The emotional depth of the characters and the high-stakes action make this a great addition to the genre.

The story unfolds on the planet Oxtaria, a fantastic setting that immediately captures the imagination. The plot centers on military medic Pocky, her long-separated brother, Thomas, and Lance, a farmer looking for purpose. All three soon become entangled in a high-stakes, sprawling conspiracy. The characters are impressively fleshed out, and their motivations lend real emotional depth to the intense action as they struggle against genuinely menacing villains. The villains in this book require special mention. They are written so well that you instantly understand the stakes. They are not mundane or pedestrian in their motivations; they are intensely, intelligently evil with a loathing for life that makes the whole story so gripping.

One other thing of particular note to me as a veteran is the IMF (Iarothian Military Force), which is depicted as a unique blend of forces akin to the French Foreign Legion mixed with some modern PMCs. The rigid structure of most military forces is somewhat relaxed with a powerful sense of fraternal loyalty and mutual dependence. This bond moves beyond simple professional duty, fostering a brotherly component where commitment to one's squadmates often overrides regulations.

For readers like me who often struggle with large, complex geographies (the kind with multiple countries, cultures, and languages that often require a reference manual), I especially appreciated how naturally the detail was presented here. There are no confusing info dumps; instead, the author weaves the complexities into the story gradually, making it incredibly easy to visualize and understand. Furthermore, the intricate backstory and reveals are super engaging. Without giving anything away, the plot twists are expertly handled and impossible to see coming, flawlessly blending personal stakes with the epic fate of an entire planet.

If you like deeply emotional characters, a plot packed with expertly handled twists, and genuinely menacing, well written villains, pick up The Dark Sun immediately.

[Stella Raven · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very interesting story. The plot weaves itself via 3 different POVs, those of Pocky, her twin brother Thomas, and a farmboy named Lance. The world itself is complex and diverse, with its history being explained very early in the book. I loved how to the point the prologue's narration was, no unnecessary details added. Regions around Oxtaria have their own distinct cultures and languages, and I hope we get to explore even more of them in the next book!

Our cast features people from all walks of life, looking for a place to belong and finding family in each other. I live for strong character dynamics, and the bonds between Lance and Bren truly made them stand out to me the most. I also hope we get to see more of Thomas and Kai -my girl needs more page time!

I didn't expect the plot twist, nor the cliffhanger at the end of the book, and yes, it is enough to make me want to pick it up upon release!

So far so good, but why 3*? Well, for two reasons. No.1 - the pacing. It felt like the story took too long to pick up. Although I loved seeing the characters getting to know each other, the main plot seemed to take off from the middle of the book. I wish it were balanced a little better.

No.2 - representation. There is only one gay character in the book (he is described as physically attracted to another of the same sex), and the representation is not the best. He is someone we definitely don't root for and -without going into too much detail- his behaviour is truly disturbing. I genuinely hope this is not a pattern in the author's writing and that this character behaved as such because of what he is (explained near the end of the book) and not who he is.

Important note: I am not familiar with the author and under no circumstances wish to jump to conclusions based on a single work of hers that I have read.

With the 2nd book still on track for release in September (based on the author's Goodreads update), I can't wait to see what this story has in store for our crew.

A big thank you to the author & Hidden Hollow Tours for the complimentary copy. This review was voluntary, and my opinions are my own.

[Stellar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Sun opens with one of the most disturbing prologues I've read in a while, and it's a warning. Cristine Keller doesn't flinch, and this book shouldn't be judged by its first few chapters.

At its heart is Pocky, a small, fierce, left-handed OSAR medic who answers most personal questions with a flat "No." She has a broken shoulder blade she refuses to talk about and a twin brother she hasn't seen in eight years. When a research project reunites her with Thomas aboard Gaia, a massive IMF battle cruiser, she's carrying a terrible secret: the project is a trap for Stellan Hyashi, the monster from their childhood, and her brother is the bait. That was her idea.

What surprised me most was how much heart sits under all the profanity and military grit. Pocky, Thomas and Bren, the medic they rescued from a dumpster when they were eight, are a family forged by survival. Their reunion scenes hit hard. Small moments carry the book: Kaori getting a terrified Yana up the gangway by making her sing (badly), Pocky throwing her hated sling into the ocean, and a quiet late-night scene with ice packs that does more for the slow-burn romance with Lance than any grand gesture could.

Then there's Ember, a cranky, childlike voice that lives in Pocky's "dream that wasn't a dream," calls her "Boss," and quotes her own phrases back with "as you would say." Those passages are strange, funny and quietly unsettling, and they're the thread that pulls the whole story somewhere much bigger than you expect.

The first half takes its time. There's a lot of ship, orientation and team-building before the plot ignites. Once Gaia is tugged out to sea and the threats start landing, it doesn't let up. The final act turns the book into something I didn't see coming, and the cliffhanger made me want book two immediately.

If you love found family, morally clear villains you'll love to hate, military sci-fi with a cosmic twist, and slow-burn romance, give this one a go.

[MJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I was given a copy of this book from the author, and all thoughts/opinions are my own and voluntarily provided)

“I am the destroyer of all that is evil. I silence my foes that end lives and lay ruin to the worlds they are unwelcome in. I am unmerciful and relentless in ending all that is unnatural and abnormal. I am the darkness you and your kind fear. I am the Dark Sun.”

The Dark Sun is a captivating sci-fi story that follows multiple characters on a ship-bound military operation gone awry. This book has amazing character development, fascinating twists and turns, complex world building/history that is not at all what it seems, and includes just the right amount of horror/thriller elements to make the story feel ominous.

Saying too much about this book would definitely spoil the experience, but I can say this: the writing is incredibly well done, and the pace starts off slow and easy until it shifts completely midway through and has you hanging on every word. I loved the visual descriptions of the world and the depth of the scientific complexities attached to the plot. The character development was spot on, with rich dialogue that strengthened the feel of each individual character as well as the depth of connection between the key players.

If you like immersive sci-fi novels that thrive on character development, suspense, unveiled secrets, and make you wonder "how is this even possible?" - this is the book for you.

Thank you for sharing a copy of this book with me, Cristine & Hidden Hollow Book Tours! ❤️ I am really interested to see where this story goes (and I need to know what Thomas is planning! 😉)

[Kadie Higginson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
This ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

This is one of the most refreshing sci-fi novels I've read in a long time. The story is packed with twists and turns that constantly kept me guessing, and just when I thought I knew where it was headed, it surprised me again. The characters are wonderfully written, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested in their journeys as their world changes in the blink of an eye.

Pocky is a determined young woman whose greatest wish is to reunite with her brother, Thomas. However, her duty as a military medic always comes first, and she dedicates herself to helping those in need, even when it comes at a personal cost.

Thomas is an agriculturist who discovers a dangerous fungus threatening crops and rapidly depleting the world's food supply. Faced with a race against time, he must find a way to stop it before it destroys everything.

Lance, another agriculturist, struggles to find where he truly belongs. After joining the CCO research project, he begins to discover his purpose in ways he never expected.

Bren, Pocky's best friend and fellow military medic, adds humour, loyalty, and heart to the story. Their friendship is one of the highlights of the book.

This is a true page-turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Filled with unexpected revelations, mysterious villains, and extraordinary powers lying dormant within its heroes, this novel delivers an exciting blend of science fiction, action, and suspense. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven sci-fi with plenty of surprises.

[Sudeshna Banerjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Sun by Cristine Keller is an exciting mix of science fiction, thriller, and dramatic emotions taking place in the backdrop of the impending destruction of the unknown planet called Oxtaria. This novel beautifully combines various narrative perspectives revolving around two characters Pocky and Lance who come together amidst chaos and secrets.

The internal struggle within Pocky enriches the story’s emotional foundation. The guilt she feels about using her twin brother, Thomas, who is estranged from her, for the sake of manipulation brings out an intense element of emotionality despite how grand the situation may become on a universal level.

The story of Lance presents an opposite but equally relevant point of view. The progression from an unattached farmer to becoming part of the research group discovering frightening information adds to the process of building the world. From Lance’s point of view, one can understand the feeling of gradually discovering that something is wrong.

As more secrets come out and the stakes rise, the tension escalates into a final showdown against an unknown entity associated with the "Dark Sun." Although some elements of the story seem somewhat predictable, the interesting interactions among characters and the rich setting make the story entertaining.

On the whole, The Dark Sun provides an engrossing science-fiction tale with emotional depth that should be worth reading.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is dark from the outset, and really sets the stage for the turmoil to come. Trust me when I say, you are going to *love* hating the antagonist in this. No hope for redemption, although I will caution that you should read the warnings before diving in if you've suffered any kind of abuse in your past. Even having read the warnings, I was still surprised by how easily Keller got my stomach turning as I read certain parts of this. I adored Ember from the moment they're introduced, and while I won't give spoilers, they're a bit of a breath of fresh air. The other protagonists, including Pocky, are also complex, and well-developed. I loved the world building, and if I had any complaints, it would be that cliffhanger at the end!!!

[Steven Halberd · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Sun hooked me fast with its immersive world-building and strong character development. Cristine Keller creates protagonists you root for and antagonists you love to hate. What really kept me reading was the mystery of the characters’ alternate lives — hinted at throughout the book but brilliantly revealed at the end. Trying to figure things out pulled me through The Dark Sun. The ending was fantastic and left me eager for the next installment. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Tayu · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review - Mind-blowing, amazing and emotional

Throughout my reading journey, I am alwaya looking for books that make me fall in love with not only the characters and the plot, but also the world and the magic within. It happens sometimes but not always. With this, despite it being the first in a series, I felt this.

I was hooked after just 5 chapters and had to continue reading to know all of the characters and the world they live in. The way the information you need to keep reading is woven into the story is just astounding. I never had such a way of figuring stuff out that it was natural for the universe of the book. The feeling of trying to connect all the dots as more pieces of information come out, was unmatched. Second only to the shock of being both right and wrong once the twist hits. It was just a phenomenal book to read.

And don't get me started on the characters... I adore Pocky. Her POV for the longest time was my favourite to read. I could connect to her the easiest but for the last 20% of the book, Lance changed this. He might be my second favourite character and favourite POV to read. Bren is just so amazing as a character that he quickly became my favourite.

I can't stress how much I look forward to the next part of this story and look forward to what happens to the team next. (The cliffhanger is so mean and I need to know what happens next asap)

I am thankful for being able to have read this as an ARC!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you christine for letting me read this masterpiece i'm obsessed and i need to know what happens in the next book 🫣

[Glen · Rating 1 out of 5]

I won this book in a goodreads drawing.

DNF-The first page grossed me out too much to go further.

[Ann Arey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review based off a GoodReads Giveaway

[Jazmin Lister · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOT A CLEAN (contains language, difficult and disturbing topics and scenes that are no for sensitive readers) BOOK
But wow, Cristine Keller’s imagination know no bounds. Every twist sent me for a loop, my stomached dropped out about a hundred times!!