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Splinter
Ama is two days from starting her graduate program when she pulls off a Wyoming highway to rest her eyes. She wakes on bare earth beneath unfamiliar stars. Her car is gone. The highway is gone.
The world she's fallen into looks like Wyoming — the Red Desert, the Great Divide Basin, sage and sandstone — but it runs on different rules. People here develop capabilities: the ability to move water, heat stone, push air in ways physics back home can't explain. Those without capabilities survive on skill, trade, and instincts about who to trust.
Esah arrived the same way. A young man from Wamsutter who woke one morning to find his world replaced, he's further into the Basin's economy of survival than Ama — and deeper into its dangers. What neither of them understands is why people keep arriving. Or what happens to the ones who don't adapt.
Splinter is a science fantasy portal novel set in an alternate Wyoming where elemental magic functions like physics and survival depends on knowledge as much as power.
For readers of N.K. Jemisin, Hugh Howey, and Andy Weir.
Book 1 of the Splintered World series — an ongoing saga.
The world she's fallen into looks like Wyoming — the Red Desert, the Great Divide Basin, sage and sandstone — but it runs on different rules. People here develop capabilities: the ability to move water, heat stone, push air in ways physics back home can't explain. Those without capabilities survive on skill, trade, and instincts about who to trust.
Esah arrived the same way. A young man from Wamsutter who woke one morning to find his world replaced, he's further into the Basin's economy of survival than Ama — and deeper into its dangers. What neither of them understands is why people keep arriving. Or what happens to the ones who don't adapt.
Splinter is a science fantasy portal novel set in an alternate Wyoming where elemental magic functions like physics and survival depends on knowledge as much as power.
For readers of N.K. Jemisin, Hugh Howey, and Andy Weir.
Book 1 of the Splintered World series — an ongoing saga.
400 pages, ebook
Published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 14, 2026
This book had a ton of potential and I can definitely see exactly what the Author was trying to do, but unfortunately, the execution wasn’t quite there.
Story/Concept-wise this would have probably been a 4 star book for me. I really enjoyed the world the author built and the mystery behind how they all ended up there. The characters were all different and interesting as well.
There were so many times throughout where chunks of plot were repeated or the author seemed to have forgotten he already had the character say something and then it was repeated again. Or there were several instances where a character made this big plan to do something and then it just never happened and wasn’t talked about again. Like the character completely forgot about it. Normally, since this is an e-galley, I would have chalked that up to that it’s not the final version of the book, but because it happened so frequently I just can’t imagine that the editor missed that much. Which leads me to believe it was intentional and a very weird choice.
I really wish the way the capabilities worked would have been explained better. I understand that the characters themselves don’t fully understand them, but as a reader, because I didn’t understand them they were underwhelming. Also, the things about them that were explained didn’t actually make logical sense to me and seemed like the author forcing an explanation in order to create conflict in the story.
Ama’s storyline was very strangely structured to me. She opens the book, but then we don’t see her for a long time. When we do see her again throughout the book it’s so random and for tiny little bits. It felt like the author wanted her to be a main character, but didn’t spend nearly enough time or go back to her consistently enough for that to happen.
I also wish we would have gotten more of the towns that were being controlled by the “evil” leaders. We touched on them some near the end of the book, but have that aspect in throughout more of the story would have heightened the stakes and made things more interesting.
Overall, I thought the book was interesting. I wish I would have been better executed though, because I could’ve seen myself really liking it if it had been.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and statements are my own.
Story/Concept-wise this would have probably been a 4 star book for me. I really enjoyed the world the author built and the mystery behind how they all ended up there. The characters were all different and interesting as well.
There were so many times throughout where chunks of plot were repeated or the author seemed to have forgotten he already had the character say something and then it was repeated again. Or there were several instances where a character made this big plan to do something and then it just never happened and wasn’t talked about again. Like the character completely forgot about it. Normally, since this is an e-galley, I would have chalked that up to that it’s not the final version of the book, but because it happened so frequently I just can’t imagine that the editor missed that much. Which leads me to believe it was intentional and a very weird choice.
I really wish the way the capabilities worked would have been explained better. I understand that the characters themselves don’t fully understand them, but as a reader, because I didn’t understand them they were underwhelming. Also, the things about them that were explained didn’t actually make logical sense to me and seemed like the author forcing an explanation in order to create conflict in the story.
Ama’s storyline was very strangely structured to me. She opens the book, but then we don’t see her for a long time. When we do see her again throughout the book it’s so random and for tiny little bits. It felt like the author wanted her to be a main character, but didn’t spend nearly enough time or go back to her consistently enough for that to happen.
I also wish we would have gotten more of the towns that were being controlled by the “evil” leaders. We touched on them some near the end of the book, but have that aspect in throughout more of the story would have heightened the stakes and made things more interesting.
Overall, I thought the book was interesting. I wish I would have been better executed though, because I could’ve seen myself really liking it if it had been.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and statements are my own.
July 7, 2026
This is a portal fantasy adventure, where the barrier between our reality and another version of Earth is thin enough for people to splinter off so that one version of them ends up in this different place, with different rules. Meanwhile, there is still a version of them which continues to live out their lives in their original timeline, though it was never made clear how exactly anyone knew this, as no one managed to return.
This tale essentially follows two young people who have splintered and charts their struggles to survive in a harsh environment, where everyone is busy trying to ensure they have enough resources to keep themselves alive. Moyer clearly knows the area very well. And he also gives a viscerally realistic portrayal of what it takes to be able to keep alive and safe in such a landscape. I was immediately drawn into this story – Ama’s initially dazed confusion as she struggles to come to terms with what has happened to her gripped me from the beginning. Particularly as the first person she encounters isn’t necessarily looking out for her, despite his apparent help and friendliness.
Esah is another young person who arrives in this alternate reality and while equally disorientated and horrified at the prospect of losing his former life, he is far more at home within the landscape. He has spent a lot of time out in the desert as his grandfather had a mine and would take him out to show him how the geology of the area works. While he makes some mistakes, this is a world where Esah manages to settle in. The idea of everyone acquiring some sort of magical power connected to the elements, or their daily tasks is also introduced. It’s quite complicated and powers a couple of the main plotlines throughout the story.
Initially, I got a tad impatient with all the talk and effort going into acquiring capabilities. But after a few moment’s reflection, I realised that without these various bits of help – a lot of people were able to start fires, while others were able to heal infections, for instance – the overall standard of living would have been far lower and the death toll would’ve been far higher. Eking out a living in such a marginal landscape takes skill and luck.
But what made this story stand out for me is the lyrical descriptions of the landscape. Moyer clearly knows this area exceptionally well and loves it. That doesn’t mean he is remotely sentimental about it, either. I’m not talking about someone who tours around in an RV – Moyer has evidently walked distances in the desert, observing the landscape, flora and fauna, so is very aware of how lethal it can be. He’s slept under the stars and that knowledge sings off the pages in amongst Esah’s adventures – because the desert is also breathtakingly beautiful. Amongst other issues – Moyer examines what makes a community and how do you control those who don’t want to abide by the rules, how do you teach vital skills without someone becoming too reliant upon you – this book is also a love letter to a savage wilderness that even with all our modern technology, hasn’t been tamed.
I generally write my reviews immediately I’ve completed a book – this time due to illness, I was unable to do that. But this time around, it hasn’t been a problem. Because this book has remained in my memory and I’ve found myself thinking a lot about the characters. It isn’t faultless – there is some unevenness of pacing and I think the book should have opened with Esah’s arrival, instead of Ama. His story ends up powering most of the narrative, anyway and like others, I was left feeling a bit short-changed that I didn’t see more of Ama’s journey, given she was the first character I bonded with. That said, it’s an impressive debut and if you want a portal fantasy adventure that offers something completely different from the This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me dynamic – then give this one a go. Highly recommended. The second book, Unbound, is coming out on 2nd August – I’ve made a note of it as I’m keen to discover what happens next to these characters. While I obtained an arc of Splinter from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
9/10
This tale essentially follows two young people who have splintered and charts their struggles to survive in a harsh environment, where everyone is busy trying to ensure they have enough resources to keep themselves alive. Moyer clearly knows the area very well. And he also gives a viscerally realistic portrayal of what it takes to be able to keep alive and safe in such a landscape. I was immediately drawn into this story – Ama’s initially dazed confusion as she struggles to come to terms with what has happened to her gripped me from the beginning. Particularly as the first person she encounters isn’t necessarily looking out for her, despite his apparent help and friendliness.
Esah is another young person who arrives in this alternate reality and while equally disorientated and horrified at the prospect of losing his former life, he is far more at home within the landscape. He has spent a lot of time out in the desert as his grandfather had a mine and would take him out to show him how the geology of the area works. While he makes some mistakes, this is a world where Esah manages to settle in. The idea of everyone acquiring some sort of magical power connected to the elements, or their daily tasks is also introduced. It’s quite complicated and powers a couple of the main plotlines throughout the story.
Initially, I got a tad impatient with all the talk and effort going into acquiring capabilities. But after a few moment’s reflection, I realised that without these various bits of help – a lot of people were able to start fires, while others were able to heal infections, for instance – the overall standard of living would have been far lower and the death toll would’ve been far higher. Eking out a living in such a marginal landscape takes skill and luck.
But what made this story stand out for me is the lyrical descriptions of the landscape. Moyer clearly knows this area exceptionally well and loves it. That doesn’t mean he is remotely sentimental about it, either. I’m not talking about someone who tours around in an RV – Moyer has evidently walked distances in the desert, observing the landscape, flora and fauna, so is very aware of how lethal it can be. He’s slept under the stars and that knowledge sings off the pages in amongst Esah’s adventures – because the desert is also breathtakingly beautiful. Amongst other issues – Moyer examines what makes a community and how do you control those who don’t want to abide by the rules, how do you teach vital skills without someone becoming too reliant upon you – this book is also a love letter to a savage wilderness that even with all our modern technology, hasn’t been tamed.
I generally write my reviews immediately I’ve completed a book – this time due to illness, I was unable to do that. But this time around, it hasn’t been a problem. Because this book has remained in my memory and I’ve found myself thinking a lot about the characters. It isn’t faultless – there is some unevenness of pacing and I think the book should have opened with Esah’s arrival, instead of Ama. His story ends up powering most of the narrative, anyway and like others, I was left feeling a bit short-changed that I didn’t see more of Ama’s journey, given she was the first character I bonded with. That said, it’s an impressive debut and if you want a portal fantasy adventure that offers something completely different from the This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me dynamic – then give this one a go. Highly recommended. The second book, Unbound, is coming out on 2nd August – I’ve made a note of it as I’m keen to discover what happens next to these characters. While I obtained an arc of Splinter from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
9/10
July 3, 2026
What a breath of original air this book was for me after a stretch of quasi-samesies contemporary reads! I was enthralled immediately by the concept, and found myself flying through the pages to find out what happened next. I found it perfectly immersive, and I find myself anticipating more time in this desolate world.
Splinter off into a Portal Fantasy with real costs...
Imagine driving through the harsh terrain of Southern Wyoming only to find yourself transported into an alternate reality where your car, the gas station you were parked at, the clothes on your back, no longer exist. You're alone in the bare terrain with no map, no food, no water, and no understanding of what the hell just happened to you.
The lucky ones stumble upon other travelers.
But not everyone is lucky.
We experience the world mostly through the experience of Esah, who was on his way to college to study chemistry when he Splintered. He's one of the lucky ones, at least to start. He finds a mentor to teach him the basics of surviving in the harsh environment, how to prepare for the inevitable winter, the basics of trading, and the etiquette expected from all new citizens of this strange new world.
I was fascinated by the world building. Everything felt very honest to what you might expect from a desolate world where a series of small mistakes can end in disaster for even the most experienced souls. In some places I felt like the pacing was a little slow, but it was only to get into more detail about the characters, their real-world stakes, and the concepts behind the fledgling magic system.
It felt like what it very much is — the first book in a series which describes itself as a 'saga'. I could tell there was groundwork being laid that will probably pay of more deeply in the next volumes more than they necessarily did here, and that makes me even more excited to continue following along with this series.
The concept of Splintering itself reminded me of a book that recently rearranged my brain chemistry, Dark Matter, by Blake Crouch. On some level, it uses the same multiverse idea—that there are other places, not necessarily very different from our own—no more than a breath away. In Splinter, the characters just happen to slip into a new one.
Obviously I'm quite a fan of this book, and I would absolutely recommend it for anyone looking for a nice dose of escapism. I can't stop thinking about what might happen next!
Note:: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews, reading lists, craft dissection, essays, and more, visit thelitertarian.com.
Splinter off into a Portal Fantasy with real costs...
Imagine driving through the harsh terrain of Southern Wyoming only to find yourself transported into an alternate reality where your car, the gas station you were parked at, the clothes on your back, no longer exist. You're alone in the bare terrain with no map, no food, no water, and no understanding of what the hell just happened to you.
The lucky ones stumble upon other travelers.
But not everyone is lucky.
We experience the world mostly through the experience of Esah, who was on his way to college to study chemistry when he Splintered. He's one of the lucky ones, at least to start. He finds a mentor to teach him the basics of surviving in the harsh environment, how to prepare for the inevitable winter, the basics of trading, and the etiquette expected from all new citizens of this strange new world.
I was fascinated by the world building. Everything felt very honest to what you might expect from a desolate world where a series of small mistakes can end in disaster for even the most experienced souls. In some places I felt like the pacing was a little slow, but it was only to get into more detail about the characters, their real-world stakes, and the concepts behind the fledgling magic system.
It felt like what it very much is — the first book in a series which describes itself as a 'saga'. I could tell there was groundwork being laid that will probably pay of more deeply in the next volumes more than they necessarily did here, and that makes me even more excited to continue following along with this series.
The concept of Splintering itself reminded me of a book that recently rearranged my brain chemistry, Dark Matter, by Blake Crouch. On some level, it uses the same multiverse idea—that there are other places, not necessarily very different from our own—no more than a breath away. In Splinter, the characters just happen to slip into a new one.
Obviously I'm quite a fan of this book, and I would absolutely recommend it for anyone looking for a nice dose of escapism. I can't stop thinking about what might happen next!
Note:: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews, reading lists, craft dissection, essays, and more, visit thelitertarian.com.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an ARC of this book. My review is based on that copy. The published work may differ from what I read.
I knew absolutely nothing about this book going in other than the summary. It ended up being a thought provoking deep dive into survivalism, human nature, community, and growth, set against a unique world and filled with creative magical ideas. The book has a fascinating premise, and I liked the prose. It’s brisk, descriptive, and sharp, if occasionally choppy. There are a few sections that were condensed and moved more quickly than I liked, but not to the point of being frustrating. Overall, the pacing was slow and unrushed.
The world building is extensive. There’s a lot of detail and the progress of Esah, the main point of view character, is slow. It worked though. I enjoyed seeing him figure out how to exist in the world, making mistakes but trying, and slowly discovering what works and what doesn’t. The slow revealing of the culture and community interested me. I liked seeing how trust and reputation mattered, and the way everything revolved around usefulness and trade.
The cast of characters is diverse, and how Esah builds friendships and connections over time was rewarding. There were no instant answers, just slow work put in to establish trust. There are missteps and consequences and all of it is human and recognizable. The plot and the stakes deepen throughout the story, and in spite of the premise and the fantastical elements it all felt grounded and real.
There were a few areas that needed more work. The magical elements were unique, but not explained coherently. I was confused about how they worked, why they worked, and what the limits were. Some things are repeated constantly, and others are not explained at all. I either wanted more information, or much less. It ended up in a nebulous middle ground that frustrated me. The character relationships were also lacking in a few areas. The individual people were interesting and developed well but some of their connections were brushed over. There was a lot that was not shown, and some relationships that are dropped from the narrative without explanation.
In spite of a few notable issues, I enjoyed reading this. If you are a fan of slower pacing and intricate world building, this will be right up your alley.
I knew absolutely nothing about this book going in other than the summary. It ended up being a thought provoking deep dive into survivalism, human nature, community, and growth, set against a unique world and filled with creative magical ideas. The book has a fascinating premise, and I liked the prose. It’s brisk, descriptive, and sharp, if occasionally choppy. There are a few sections that were condensed and moved more quickly than I liked, but not to the point of being frustrating. Overall, the pacing was slow and unrushed.
The world building is extensive. There’s a lot of detail and the progress of Esah, the main point of view character, is slow. It worked though. I enjoyed seeing him figure out how to exist in the world, making mistakes but trying, and slowly discovering what works and what doesn’t. The slow revealing of the culture and community interested me. I liked seeing how trust and reputation mattered, and the way everything revolved around usefulness and trade.
The cast of characters is diverse, and how Esah builds friendships and connections over time was rewarding. There were no instant answers, just slow work put in to establish trust. There are missteps and consequences and all of it is human and recognizable. The plot and the stakes deepen throughout the story, and in spite of the premise and the fantastical elements it all felt grounded and real.
There were a few areas that needed more work. The magical elements were unique, but not explained coherently. I was confused about how they worked, why they worked, and what the limits were. Some things are repeated constantly, and others are not explained at all. I either wanted more information, or much less. It ended up in a nebulous middle ground that frustrated me. The character relationships were also lacking in a few areas. The individual people were interesting and developed well but some of their connections were brushed over. There was a lot that was not shown, and some relationships that are dropped from the narrative without explanation.
In spite of a few notable issues, I enjoyed reading this. If you are a fan of slower pacing and intricate world building, this will be right up your alley.
July 13, 2026
I enjoyed Splinter! The structure of this story is a little different from my preconceived expectations, and initially that threw me off a little. But when I stopped trying to anticipate where the story was going and instead decided to just enjoy learning about this alternate world, that's when I really started to appreciate its uniqueness.
I'm a bit of a nerd, so I really liked all the geographical, science and survival information! I was impressed by the depth of details.
And I like "living" with characters who prioritize trying to be good people. We learn that most of the surrounding area is dominated by people who take advantage of others, but the focus of Splinter is on characters who want to help other, but are sometimes scared to do so. Call me crazy, but I like likeable characters!!!
Initially, I was turned off by what appeared to be inconsistencies in the "rules" that apply to this alternative world. But on reflection I think a lot, if not all of that, can be explained away by realizing that none of the characters tell Esah or anyone else everything they know about any topic. From the beginning Hoda and his inner circle warn Esah over and over again that they guard information for their safety. So while several people help the new comers, we should assume that they never reveal everything they know.
One thing the author does that i don't care for is that when one of the characters discovers something new the author makes us "listen" to the entire spiel over again everytime it's relayed to another character instead of summing it up with something like: "Esah told Hoda what he had just learned." (This is why I took 1 star off.) I don't care for the repetitive stuff, but since so much of the rest of the book is well-written, well-researched, and just plain interesting, it's worth it.
This isn't a quick read. There's a lot to learn and the author isn't giving many shortcuts. We're learning about this world right along with Esah, Ama, and Hootsuu.
My husband read it too, and not only have we've enjoyed discussing various aspects of it, but since reading it we keep slipping Splinter terms into our regular conversations- I think that's a pretty good indication that it captured our imaginations! This book, while not flawless, feels special. It has something to say beyond just an entertaining story.
We both get the feeling that Book 1 only scratches the surface of what the Splinter world is all about and we look forward to reading more.
I'm a bit of a nerd, so I really liked all the geographical, science and survival information! I was impressed by the depth of details.
And I like "living" with characters who prioritize trying to be good people. We learn that most of the surrounding area is dominated by people who take advantage of others, but the focus of Splinter is on characters who want to help other, but are sometimes scared to do so. Call me crazy, but I like likeable characters!!!
Initially, I was turned off by what appeared to be inconsistencies in the "rules" that apply to this alternative world. But on reflection I think a lot, if not all of that, can be explained away by realizing that none of the characters tell Esah or anyone else everything they know about any topic. From the beginning Hoda and his inner circle warn Esah over and over again that they guard information for their safety. So while several people help the new comers, we should assume that they never reveal everything they know.
One thing the author does that i don't care for is that when one of the characters discovers something new the author makes us "listen" to the entire spiel over again everytime it's relayed to another character instead of summing it up with something like: "Esah told Hoda what he had just learned." (This is why I took 1 star off.) I don't care for the repetitive stuff, but since so much of the rest of the book is well-written, well-researched, and just plain interesting, it's worth it.
This isn't a quick read. There's a lot to learn and the author isn't giving many shortcuts. We're learning about this world right along with Esah, Ama, and Hootsuu.
My husband read it too, and not only have we've enjoyed discussing various aspects of it, but since reading it we keep slipping Splinter terms into our regular conversations- I think that's a pretty good indication that it captured our imaginations! This book, while not flawless, feels special. It has something to say beyond just an entertaining story.
We both get the feeling that Book 1 only scratches the surface of what the Splinter world is all about and we look forward to reading more.
July 20, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Brian Moyer for this eARC! This is my fair and honest review.
People are waking up in a sort of alternate universe Wyoming to find that all cities, roads, and buildings have vanished. Our main characters, Ama and Esah, have to learn how to survive in the wilderness with help from those who have built a trade-based society. And also some people have elemental magic.
I’ve been struggling to figure out how to rate and review this book. The concept was super interesting. I wasn’t immediately hooked, but found myself becoming more invested as time went on. But then the book just kept going.
It took me so long to get through this book. Most of it felt like a how-to guide on surviving the Wyoming wilderness. Genuinely, after reading this book, I might be able to do that. It was actually interesting! But the book felt so long and slow, and I didn’t really get sucked in.
The magic system is interesting but not super consistent because the magic is different for each person who has it. Everyone develops at different paces and discovers their magic in different ways. Magic exchange is odd, but cool.
I think I just wasn’t able to get super emotionally invested in the characters. I would start getting there but then something would happen to dim my interest in the character. I wish I could say more but I want to avoid spoilers! Also, Ama, who is supposed to be a main character, is barely in the story.
The biggest issue with this book is, unfortunately, the writing style. The whole book is incredibly repetitive, and it presents redundant information like we’d never heard it before. I don’t know if AI was used in this book, but between the strange pacing, endless repeated information, and some of the verbiage, it wouldn’t surprise me if AI was involved.
Overall, I think there is definitely an audience for this book. I just struggled with it. The more time has passed since I finished it, the less I’m sure if I like it. But I can understand why people would enjoy it.
People are waking up in a sort of alternate universe Wyoming to find that all cities, roads, and buildings have vanished. Our main characters, Ama and Esah, have to learn how to survive in the wilderness with help from those who have built a trade-based society. And also some people have elemental magic.
I’ve been struggling to figure out how to rate and review this book. The concept was super interesting. I wasn’t immediately hooked, but found myself becoming more invested as time went on. But then the book just kept going.
It took me so long to get through this book. Most of it felt like a how-to guide on surviving the Wyoming wilderness. Genuinely, after reading this book, I might be able to do that. It was actually interesting! But the book felt so long and slow, and I didn’t really get sucked in.
The magic system is interesting but not super consistent because the magic is different for each person who has it. Everyone develops at different paces and discovers their magic in different ways. Magic exchange is odd, but cool.
I think I just wasn’t able to get super emotionally invested in the characters. I would start getting there but then something would happen to dim my interest in the character. I wish I could say more but I want to avoid spoilers! Also, Ama, who is supposed to be a main character, is barely in the story.
The biggest issue with this book is, unfortunately, the writing style. The whole book is incredibly repetitive, and it presents redundant information like we’d never heard it before. I don’t know if AI was used in this book, but between the strange pacing, endless repeated information, and some of the verbiage, it wouldn’t surprise me if AI was involved.
Overall, I think there is definitely an audience for this book. I just struggled with it. The more time has passed since I finished it, the less I’m sure if I like it. But I can understand why people would enjoy it.
August 30, 2026
I would give this 3.5 stars.
I read Hoda first, and enjoyed it enough to dive right into Splinter. I'm glad I started with Hoda as I connected more with Hoda's character than Esah, but the foundation let me slide into the larger story more easily.
The writing is solid, and I truly appreciate seeing my beautiful Wyoming landscapes represented well. As someone who lived in Table Rock Village at a young age, this landscape formed me in similar ways. Knowing the area (and randomly, having driven from Casper to a Rock Springs, to Lander and then back between reading Hoda and starting Splinter) gives the story an extra depth. When a known location isn't represented faithfully, it can ruin a book. In this case, Moyer does a good job using the geography while also nagging his story work within the landscape.
Three is some repetition and redundancy in the prose, but honestly, given the set-up that these humans are recently torn from their reality, dumped in a harsher one, and having to figure out survival and a new political structure, it felt rather natural. Could it have been a little cleaner? Yes, but it is also a first book, and first books in series (esp by new authors) are often more choppy and a little less polished than we would like. None of that stopped me from reading (and if you know me, you know I have a low tolerance for bad writing and will abandon a book with no regrets of it is badly written).
Would recommend for fans of alternative realities.
I read Hoda first, and enjoyed it enough to dive right into Splinter. I'm glad I started with Hoda as I connected more with Hoda's character than Esah, but the foundation let me slide into the larger story more easily.
The writing is solid, and I truly appreciate seeing my beautiful Wyoming landscapes represented well. As someone who lived in Table Rock Village at a young age, this landscape formed me in similar ways. Knowing the area (and randomly, having driven from Casper to a Rock Springs, to Lander and then back between reading Hoda and starting Splinter) gives the story an extra depth. When a known location isn't represented faithfully, it can ruin a book. In this case, Moyer does a good job using the geography while also nagging his story work within the landscape.
Three is some repetition and redundancy in the prose, but honestly, given the set-up that these humans are recently torn from their reality, dumped in a harsher one, and having to figure out survival and a new political structure, it felt rather natural. Could it have been a little cleaner? Yes, but it is also a first book, and first books in series (esp by new authors) are often more choppy and a little less polished than we would like. None of that stopped me from reading (and if you know me, you know I have a low tolerance for bad writing and will abandon a book with no regrets of it is badly written).
Would recommend for fans of alternative realities.
May 28, 2026
Splinter completely pulled me in from the start. As someone who loves dystopian fiction with a strong science element, this was exactly the sort of book I enjoy getting lost in. The world building felt believable and unsettling, creating a version of society where survival depends on adaptation, instinct and knowing who you can trust.
What really kept me invested though were the characters. Watching them try to survive in a world that no longer follows the rules they once knew was fascinating. New abilities are emerging, alliances constantly shift and every relationship feels balanced between connection and self preservation. I liked that nobody could fully let their guard down because the stakes always felt high.
The tension builds steadily throughout and there is a real sense of danger running underneath everything as characters are forced to evolve, protect what makes them different and work out who is willing to exploit them. The scientific elements added an extra layer of intrigue without overwhelming the story itself.
A gripping and immersive dystopian thriller with strong characters and a really compelling premise.
With thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
What really kept me invested though were the characters. Watching them try to survive in a world that no longer follows the rules they once knew was fascinating. New abilities are emerging, alliances constantly shift and every relationship feels balanced between connection and self preservation. I liked that nobody could fully let their guard down because the stakes always felt high.
The tension builds steadily throughout and there is a real sense of danger running underneath everything as characters are forced to evolve, protect what makes them different and work out who is willing to exploit them. The scientific elements added an extra layer of intrigue without overwhelming the story itself.
A gripping and immersive dystopian thriller with strong characters and a really compelling premise.
With thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
August 18, 2026
Enticing plot about what would happen if you were suddenly - elsewhere. Dystopian in tone, not due to human stupidity, but a bend in the laws of physics. How do you survive, who do you trust, and where do you go - and can you get there?
Using true bush craft, dazzling desert locations, and a cast of quirky (in a good way) characters, Brian Moyer creates a world that mirrors ours, but is just a shade - splintered.
The writing style is different, and it took a few pages to get into it. You may notice - short speaking, for lack of a better description - where words are left out of conversations (prepositions, mostly), and the more you get into the book, the more economical the conversations - like when you're attempting to conserve everything in a difficult situation.
Moyer's descriptions of Esah's family, the area he is in, the scenery, and the steps to survive resonate with his evidently personal love of the area. As I'm also a resident of the region he uses, I can relate. He misplaces a few landmarks in his world - but all the better to create a sense of disconnect. Stick with this new series - pretty sure you won't be disappointed.
Using true bush craft, dazzling desert locations, and a cast of quirky (in a good way) characters, Brian Moyer creates a world that mirrors ours, but is just a shade - splintered.
The writing style is different, and it took a few pages to get into it. You may notice - short speaking, for lack of a better description - where words are left out of conversations (prepositions, mostly), and the more you get into the book, the more economical the conversations - like when you're attempting to conserve everything in a difficult situation.
Moyer's descriptions of Esah's family, the area he is in, the scenery, and the steps to survive resonate with his evidently personal love of the area. As I'm also a resident of the region he uses, I can relate. He misplaces a few landmarks in his world - but all the better to create a sense of disconnect. Stick with this new series - pretty sure you won't be disappointed.
May 20, 2026
I requested this arc because I was intrigued by its description. Someone resting near the Highway and suddenly everything was different.
The world you once new gone, only its surroundings remained intact. Only thinking about such eventuality would give
you goosebumps.
The author tells his tale in a third person point of view, the main focus is on Esah yet he often shifts his focus
on other people as well. All stuck in that new world, familiar yet unknown.
Letting go of their past lives takes time, accommodating to this new world and learning on how to survive doesn’t
has such luxury.
What makes this new life special? People appear to have powers or capabilities as they’re called.
It doesn’t represent you as a person, yet it’s a tool that works for you.
This book is a lesson in antropology, human history and our ability to evolve.
Evolution has always allowed our species to last over time, in any world.
How we do it, that’s the interesting part.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me this opportunity.
The world you once new gone, only its surroundings remained intact. Only thinking about such eventuality would give
you goosebumps.
The author tells his tale in a third person point of view, the main focus is on Esah yet he often shifts his focus
on other people as well. All stuck in that new world, familiar yet unknown.
Letting go of their past lives takes time, accommodating to this new world and learning on how to survive doesn’t
has such luxury.
What makes this new life special? People appear to have powers or capabilities as they’re called.
It doesn’t represent you as a person, yet it’s a tool that works for you.
This book is a lesson in antropology, human history and our ability to evolve.
Evolution has always allowed our species to last over time, in any world.
How we do it, that’s the interesting part.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me this opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars. Esah (that wasn't his name then) stops on the side of the road outside Laramie. He's wondering if he should return to college or just keep driving and start a new life. His next awareness is of cold. And darkness. Dark beyond what he's ever known. And so very cold. Esah, as he is now, has just splintered through, to an alternate universe (?), a separate dimension (?). He only knows if he doesn't find shelter and warmth, he is going to die.
Thus begins Splinter, and some of the best world-building I've read in a long time. The reader learns, along with Esah, and later with Hootsoo, how this new world works. From the most basic survival techniques, through this new world's "curiosities": 'capabilities' that one may or may not develop, the ability to work parts of the natural world with a little "extra". I'm assuming this book is planned to be the beginning of a series. It can be read as a standalone - no cliffhangars. But the possibilities are tantalizing.
Thus begins Splinter, and some of the best world-building I've read in a long time. The reader learns, along with Esah, and later with Hootsoo, how this new world works. From the most basic survival techniques, through this new world's "curiosities": 'capabilities' that one may or may not develop, the ability to work parts of the natural world with a little "extra". I'm assuming this book is planned to be the beginning of a series. It can be read as a standalone - no cliffhangars. But the possibilities are tantalizing.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
To be honest, I did not finish reading this book. I don't know whether it was written with AI or not, but it was full of odd incongruencies and repetitions. A character enters alternate-Earth and reels offall the landmarks he recognizes, only later in the same scene to try and fail to memorize landmarks and boggle at how anyone can navigate without roads and GPS, only later again to become a specialist in pathfinding. Conversations about people being tethered to their entry-point in alternate-earth repeat multiple times, as if they're new. A character wanders into a trading market with tubers to trade for necessary goods (the weird tuber-currency exchange rate is its own type of odd), only to lament that she can't afford to buy a bow that costs 20 tubers, when we learned that she had 23 tubers on her!
Whether this is AI or not, it's bad writing and bad editing, and I don't see any reason to continue.
Whether this is AI or not, it's bad writing and bad editing, and I don't see any reason to continue.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Splinter follows Esah as he arrives in an alternate reality Wyoming. The world building in this novel is extensive and detailed. Elements of the story are based on actual scientific concepts. At times it was almost philosophical. It is a slow paced story but well written. I was a little confused that the prologue began with Ama's story but the rest of the novel focused on Eash. I would've liked to have seen more of Ama and how she adjusted to her new environment.
My only critique is that the story did get a little repetitive at times, especially towards the end. Some of the character dialogue was repeated almost word for word very close together in the story.
Since this is the first book in a series I am interested to see where the author takes the story and the characters.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
My only critique is that the story did get a little repetitive at times, especially towards the end. Some of the character dialogue was repeated almost word for word very close together in the story.
Since this is the first book in a series I am interested to see where the author takes the story and the characters.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The premise of this story immediately caught my attention. A survival focused portal fantasy set in the desert sounded incredibly promising, and the opening definitely creates a strong sense of mystery and displacement.
Unfortunately, this one ultimately wasn't the right fit for me. I struggled to fully connect with the writing style and some of the early character interactions, which made it difficult for me to stay immersed in the story. I also found myself wanting a bit more grounding and gradual development in the worldbuilding and dialogue.
That said, the concept itself is genuinely interesting, and I think readers who enjoy fast moving portal fantasy adventures with immediate survival stakes may have a better experience with it than I did.
Thanks to the author and Netgalley for the ARC.
Unfortunately, this one ultimately wasn't the right fit for me. I struggled to fully connect with the writing style and some of the early character interactions, which made it difficult for me to stay immersed in the story. I also found myself wanting a bit more grounding and gradual development in the worldbuilding and dialogue.
That said, the concept itself is genuinely interesting, and I think readers who enjoy fast moving portal fantasy adventures with immediate survival stakes may have a better experience with it than I did.
Thanks to the author and Netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
the concepts in this are really cool. the characters have interesting development that keeps you engaged. the plot moves steady but it does have a few drag points, it has nice twists and nuances too. i’m looking forward to the development of some themes.
i wished i would have gotten more time with ama. her character and experience opens the book but you don’t hear from her until later in the book, and you get snippets here and there. it was nice to be with esah but i would have liked more of a balance.
the terminology of the world is a bit cliche. i found myself shaking my head or rolling my eyes at the frequency of specific words.
all in all, it was a pleasant read. change of pace, different mindset, but it was nice. looking forward to the next book.
i wished i would have gotten more time with ama. her character and experience opens the book but you don’t hear from her until later in the book, and you get snippets here and there. it was nice to be with esah but i would have liked more of a balance.
the terminology of the world is a bit cliche. i found myself shaking my head or rolling my eyes at the frequency of specific words.
all in all, it was a pleasant read. change of pace, different mindset, but it was nice. looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an ARC OF THIS BOOK, and my comments are a result of this reading.
I was captivated and drawn in immediately. A person wakes up and finds themselves in a familiar landscape, but one unpopulated with what they remember. In fact, nothing but the geography is familiar. This could have been done poorly, a “ fish out of water” like all the rest. But don’t be deceived, this is an original concept that contains a complex society, engaging world-building, and subtle characters. It’s also great to have dialogue that doesn’t sound stiff but manages to convey a society that has evolved in unusual circumstances.
Without saying any more, reading this was a memorable experience, which I recommend to everyone.
I read it all in one day, and I anxiously await more from this author.
I was captivated and drawn in immediately. A person wakes up and finds themselves in a familiar landscape, but one unpopulated with what they remember. In fact, nothing but the geography is familiar. This could have been done poorly, a “ fish out of water” like all the rest. But don’t be deceived, this is an original concept that contains a complex society, engaging world-building, and subtle characters. It’s also great to have dialogue that doesn’t sound stiff but manages to convey a society that has evolved in unusual circumstances.
Without saying any more, reading this was a memorable experience, which I recommend to everyone.
I read it all in one day, and I anxiously await more from this author.
July 5, 2026
This book was not what I thought it would be. It was an alternate world/reality story with many twists and turns that did not quite fit together. The world building was struggling, with high points that seemed to drop off, never to be woven back into the story. I was confused by how the characters fit into the overall story. If this were the first book in a series, it would make more sense. The story has some really good parts, but then it will suddenly change focus with no explanation. I re-read many sections to follow the story. This could be a much better book, It has alot of potential.
July 24, 2026
Splinter was an interesting book. The story is slower paced rather than action packed, but still very engaging. The worldbuilding is fascinating and richly developed. The author turns Wyoming into a modified version populated by people weilding different types of magic . The combined effect is evocative of the uncanny valley. The characters are well written. The story focused more on Esah, so I hope we get to follow Ama a bit more in the next book. I recommend this book for readers who enjoy fantasy with a slower pace and detailed world building.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 7, 2026
I really liked the concept, and while it took a little while to get invested, the story eventually pulled me in.
My biggest issue was the writing style. It felt very repetitive, and almost every character had the same voice, which made the dialogue blend together. More than anything, the prose just screamed AI. I don't have a problem with AI being used as a writing tool, but when it's this noticeable, it becomes distracting. Instead of getting lost in the story, I kept noticing the writing itself.
It's a shame because the premise had a lot of potential, but the writing made it a struggle to get through, even after I was invested.
I received this book from Netgalley for a fair review.
My biggest issue was the writing style. It felt very repetitive, and almost every character had the same voice, which made the dialogue blend together. More than anything, the prose just screamed AI. I don't have a problem with AI being used as a writing tool, but when it's this noticeable, it becomes distracting. Instead of getting lost in the story, I kept noticing the writing itself.
It's a shame because the premise had a lot of potential, but the writing made it a struggle to get through, even after I was invested.
I received this book from Netgalley for a fair review.
August 9, 2026
This is a solid debut and is underrated. It will especially hit if you love knowing how everything connects and operates from a science perspective but also love magic. This is a story about escaping the mundane modernity of today’s world and slipping into a mirror world where humanity did not build sprawling cities. It’s about surviving the Wyoming wilderness without modern infrastructure, figuring out your place in the world, and the importance of community.
I especially appreciate that the antagonists aren’t ‘kicking puppies’ type of evil, and are much more insidious with their manipulative schemes. Looking forward to book two!
I especially appreciate that the antagonists aren’t ‘kicking puppies’ type of evil, and are much more insidious with their manipulative schemes. Looking forward to book two!
August 24, 2026
I had hopes
After reading a quarter of Splinter I felt good about it. It seemed to flow well,though slowly but then it started repeating itself. Too many areas in the book would have not just the same idea but used the exact words and phrases used not 4 pages or so earlier leading me to believe AI was involved, sometimes heavily and the book began to really bog down for me. The plot seemed to go by the wayside and really dragged from then on. I also was unaware, my fault I’m sure, that this is a book one of ? I assumed it was a stand alone novel. I really can’t recommend this book u less you just need to kill some time.
After reading a quarter of Splinter I felt good about it. It seemed to flow well,though slowly but then it started repeating itself. Too many areas in the book would have not just the same idea but used the exact words and phrases used not 4 pages or so earlier leading me to believe AI was involved, sometimes heavily and the book began to really bog down for me. The plot seemed to go by the wayside and really dragged from then on. I also was unaware, my fault I’m sure, that this is a book one of ? I assumed it was a stand alone novel. I really can’t recommend this book u less you just need to kill some time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Splinter is such a fun sci‑fi escape! Imagine being suddenly transported into a whole new reality where things are familiar yet different. Your survival depends on discovering your own hidden powers — yep, it’s as cool as it sounds.
The story pulls you right into the adventure, and the characters are written with so much heart that you can’t help but root for them every step of the way. It’s engaging, imaginative, and just an all‑around enjoyable read for anyone who loves exploring strange worlds.
The story pulls you right into the adventure, and the characters are written with so much heart that you can’t help but root for them every step of the way. It’s engaging, imaginative, and just an all‑around enjoyable read for anyone who loves exploring strange worlds.
July 18, 2026
Unfortunately had to DNF.
The premise is really interesting and I liked the idea of Pull, but everything felt really slow and I couldn't get past the writing style. It's a bit too elementary for my preferences, and very repetitive...Constant references to real life locations made immersion impossible. If you live in or are familiar with Wyoming, then I'm sure it'd be fine but it just confused me... Like, okay it looks like Interstate 80 or Table Rock? I have no way to invision any of this without Googling it, so I just felt left out.
The premise is really interesting and I liked the idea of Pull, but everything felt really slow and I couldn't get past the writing style. It's a bit too elementary for my preferences, and very repetitive...Constant references to real life locations made immersion impossible. If you live in or are familiar with Wyoming, then I'm sure it'd be fine but it just confused me... Like, okay it looks like Interstate 80 or Table Rock? I have no way to invision any of this without Googling it, so I just felt left out.
July 31, 2026
Brian Moyer imagines an alternate Wyoming where people Splinter (hard from Unbound Books) to losing everything from our world. Survival is tough and many starve, but there are small communities. Trading keeps the communities alive. Some people develop simple skills like manipulating water, or earth or fire that can be improved with practice. The tale follows Ama and Esah who find their niche in this harsh environment. This first year hints at a complicated world still to be explored and I’m looking forward to more adventures.
September 4, 2026
Start with this one, they said
I really enjoyed this book but it was a steady build-up, not a rollercoaster ride. I was attracted by an ad for the prequel, HODA, and the online advice was to start with this one, the first in order of publication, which would make the prequel re sonate more.
This book has a strong sense of place,interesting characters, and an understated fantasy/magical aspect. If you're found of the Robinsonade genre, or fantasies like Bujold's "The Wide Green World," or possibly Stirling's Emberverse, you'll probably enjoy this book.
I really enjoyed this book but it was a steady build-up, not a rollercoaster ride. I was attracted by an ad for the prequel, HODA, and the online advice was to start with this one, the first in order of publication, which would make the prequel re sonate more.
This book has a strong sense of place,interesting characters, and an understated fantasy/magical aspect. If you're found of the Robinsonade genre, or fantasies like Bujold's "The Wide Green World," or possibly Stirling's Emberverse, you'll probably enjoy this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The premise of Splinter is quite interesting, but the book could have used a more thorough edit. There were contradictions, strange segues, and over-repetition throughout. The magic system is inventive but could use a more thorough fleshing-out. Additionally, the characters were inconsistent at times which made it hard to get behind them. Overall Splinter has potential and the writing wasn't bad but could certainly use additional revision.
July 7, 2026
A young heroine and a magical parallel universe….
The author has done a brilliant job by bringing a fantastic parallel universe to life. It’s magical!
The character building is outstanding.
The storyline is interesting and everything fall perfectly into place.
This story is one full of adventure, the start of a fascinating journey! Looking forward to read what comes next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The author has done a brilliant job by bringing a fantastic parallel universe to life. It’s magical!
The character building is outstanding.
The storyline is interesting and everything fall perfectly into place.
This story is one full of adventure, the start of a fascinating journey! Looking forward to read what comes next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 1, 2026
Awesome debut
Incredible characters fleshed out without the usual tortured abuse of first novels. Seamless flow of dialogue to develop story and characters.
Perhaps because I am also a chemist and teacher I often wonder would I be up for a challenge of this nature? How would past students fair?
Ready for next book which drop tomorrow. But then how torturous the wait for the third.!
Incredible characters fleshed out without the usual tortured abuse of first novels. Seamless flow of dialogue to develop story and characters.
Perhaps because I am also a chemist and teacher I often wonder would I be up for a challenge of this nature? How would past students fair?
Ready for next book which drop tomorrow. But then how torturous the wait for the third.!
August 22, 2026
Great world-building!
Amazing world-building and storytelling. I read Hoda first, and then went straight into Splinter. The Alt-Wyoming Moyer has created is rich with picturesque landscapes, complex characters, and it's own rhythm of life. It's a place where survival becomes the priority and knowledge is the most important commodity. I'm definitely going to continue reading this series and recommend it to my friends and family.
Amazing world-building and storytelling. I read Hoda first, and then went straight into Splinter. The Alt-Wyoming Moyer has created is rich with picturesque landscapes, complex characters, and it's own rhythm of life. It's a place where survival becomes the priority and knowledge is the most important commodity. I'm definitely going to continue reading this series and recommend it to my friends and family.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A college student stops his car in a lay-by on his way to a summer job. He suddenly wakes up in an alternate reality where he needs survival skills to survive.
I found sone of the characters and parts of this story very interesting but it was a little drawn out for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Unbound Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I found sone of the characters and parts of this story very interesting but it was a little drawn out for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Unbound Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
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