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The Scarlet Files
The nation is burning, and fear is the kindling.
The year is 2162. One hundred tumultuous years have passed since Martians fled their galaxy and took refuge on Zeon, a planet whose inhabitants develop elemental abilities by age fourteen.
Terra Volaikov is determined to uphold her family’s prestige, despite her long-overdue elemental ability. But when her parents—an Agent and Diplomat who’ve topped the Dynestrate’s Assembly for years—are arrested for a palace heist, Terra must defy the regime she once dreamed of serving.
Iyaz Agawen volunteers to help without a second thought. But for the past year, he’s harbored a secret that could destroy everything Terra’s parents built.
Dalia Roz joins the mission too, convinced she’s the only elemental who’ll protect Terra. And though she won’t admit it, Terra might be the key for Dalia to solve a mystery of her own.
The three companions are determined to unmask the truth, but if they succeed, there will be no turning back.
Because in a kingdom that buries its bleakest history, some identities are better left in the grave.
The year is 2162. One hundred tumultuous years have passed since Martians fled their galaxy and took refuge on Zeon, a planet whose inhabitants develop elemental abilities by age fourteen.
Terra Volaikov is determined to uphold her family’s prestige, despite her long-overdue elemental ability. But when her parents—an Agent and Diplomat who’ve topped the Dynestrate’s Assembly for years—are arrested for a palace heist, Terra must defy the regime she once dreamed of serving.
Iyaz Agawen volunteers to help without a second thought. But for the past year, he’s harbored a secret that could destroy everything Terra’s parents built.
Dalia Roz joins the mission too, convinced she’s the only elemental who’ll protect Terra. And though she won’t admit it, Terra might be the key for Dalia to solve a mystery of her own.
The three companions are determined to unmask the truth, but if they succeed, there will be no turning back.
Because in a kingdom that buries its bleakest history, some identities are better left in the grave.
455 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Martians have been on Zeon, a planet whose inhabitants develop elemental powers, for 100 not-so-peaceful years. Terra Volaikov, daughter of an Agent and a Diplomat, who inexplicably has not manifested her ability yet, dreams of serving the regime herself. That dream is crushed when her parents are arrested for a palace heist/treason. Her friend Iyaz volunteers to help her, though a secret he harbors may make things worse. Now they must defy everything they've known. Dalia, the 3rd of the trio joins them, not only to protect her friend, but also because she believes Terra is the key to what she is looking for...
With that gutpunch of a prologue, mysteries and secrets showing their perplexing heads already, I was hooked straightaway. The narrative, in its legato rhythm, has a crisp preciseness. Pulse-pounding action intensifies the experience, having you hang on for dear life, as everything happens at once, though you have a clear picture of what is happening, thanks to the comprehensive and clever wording. The author is good at amping up the suspense using creative types of prose. It oozes multi-million blockbuster energy. The glory of its twisty-turviness and those oh so tasty morsels of clues, have your brain churning with theories and lead to delicious revelations. P.S. Devi's capability to depict mastermind planning is to be admired and probably feared
The author not only manages to make each POV stand out, but does the same for every character, no matter how small the contribution. Terra is determined to succeed despite unfavorable circumstances, has a short fuse and has dealt and deals with a lot. Iyaz is the I-want-to-hug-him, uplifting and fun, fiercely loyal ally you want in your corner, as is whip-smart, matter-of-fact Dalia. All three share the facade of having it all together (well mostly) on the surface, when deep down each one is troubled for different reasons. The friend group dynamic is inviting, touching, making you smile — endearing bickering included — and you feel and root for them. I even cackled with laughter a few times and Iyaz was the main culprit.
I loved all the gadgets and thingamajigies, the evocative and bountiful detailing of the world. I do wish some of the cool objects were described more extensively. I really enjoyed the rich, inventive lore and opulent storytelling full of political intrigue, machiavellian machinations, and attention-grabbing conspiracies. Here we have a leadership of camouflaged totalitarianism, shifting allegiances and the malignancy of corruption.
Sometimes the narrative stumbled in the attempt to convey all the information we needed. This happened more often in the beginning chapters, where a few more explanatory sentences were needed, with a more ample spacing of the information, so my brain could concentrate more on the who-did-what-when intrigue without simultaneously trying to learn government positions, etc. This only happened due to the author's infectious enthusiasm to share her story, and it is plain as day that she poured her heart into it. When the story hits its stride, it is majestic.
Themes that are gracefully explored are those of prejudice, harassment and sacrifice. It is about feeling you belong and advises us that the first thing we need to rely on is ourselves. It shows us the scary lengths to which someone will go to achieve what they want and shines with the passion for justice.
I think P.S. Devi has discovered her own genre. It is scifi dystopian-vibing fantasy, with alien elemental academia and mystery/conspiracy chic. You have never read anything like it, believe me.
With that gutpunch of a prologue, mysteries and secrets showing their perplexing heads already, I was hooked straightaway. The narrative, in its legato rhythm, has a crisp preciseness. Pulse-pounding action intensifies the experience, having you hang on for dear life, as everything happens at once, though you have a clear picture of what is happening, thanks to the comprehensive and clever wording. The author is good at amping up the suspense using creative types of prose. It oozes multi-million blockbuster energy. The glory of its twisty-turviness and those oh so tasty morsels of clues, have your brain churning with theories and lead to delicious revelations. P.S. Devi's capability to depict mastermind planning is to be admired and probably feared
The author not only manages to make each POV stand out, but does the same for every character, no matter how small the contribution. Terra is determined to succeed despite unfavorable circumstances, has a short fuse and has dealt and deals with a lot. Iyaz is the I-want-to-hug-him, uplifting and fun, fiercely loyal ally you want in your corner, as is whip-smart, matter-of-fact Dalia. All three share the facade of having it all together (well mostly) on the surface, when deep down each one is troubled for different reasons. The friend group dynamic is inviting, touching, making you smile — endearing bickering included — and you feel and root for them. I even cackled with laughter a few times and Iyaz was the main culprit.
I loved all the gadgets and thingamajigies, the evocative and bountiful detailing of the world. I do wish some of the cool objects were described more extensively. I really enjoyed the rich, inventive lore and opulent storytelling full of political intrigue, machiavellian machinations, and attention-grabbing conspiracies. Here we have a leadership of camouflaged totalitarianism, shifting allegiances and the malignancy of corruption.
Sometimes the narrative stumbled in the attempt to convey all the information we needed. This happened more often in the beginning chapters, where a few more explanatory sentences were needed, with a more ample spacing of the information, so my brain could concentrate more on the who-did-what-when intrigue without simultaneously trying to learn government positions, etc. This only happened due to the author's infectious enthusiasm to share her story, and it is plain as day that she poured her heart into it. When the story hits its stride, it is majestic.
Themes that are gracefully explored are those of prejudice, harassment and sacrifice. It is about feeling you belong and advises us that the first thing we need to rely on is ourselves. It shows us the scary lengths to which someone will go to achieve what they want and shines with the passion for justice.
I think P.S. Devi has discovered her own genre. It is scifi dystopian-vibing fantasy, with alien elemental academia and mystery/conspiracy chic. You have never read anything like it, believe me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my gosh, I LOVED THIS BOOK. I had the honor of beta reading, and this is easily one of the best books I’ve ever beta read. It’s so strong, with such compelling characters and a truly fascinating plot. I finished this in about three days, and it would’ve been less if I wasn’t traveling at the time, because I truly would’ve just pulled an all-nighter to read this. (And that was just in the beta read stage... you guys aren't ready for the masterpiece that's about to descend your way. And I don't use "masterpiece" lightly).
Like honestly, this is among the best books I’ve read in the past two years. If you're looking for the nostalgia of 2010's dystopian, this is the book for you! I’m completely obsessed and I am DESPERATE for Book 2!!
Starting with the absolutely incredible characters! Iyaz is such an incredible MMC. He gives off such strong Percy Jackson vibes (and all my childhood nostalgia) and he’s so sweet, endearing, and adorable. His conflict between who he is and who Terra’s parents want him to be is really powerful. I adore him! I really like Terra, too, and her family backstory is WILD. I need the prequel ASAP! I think Dalia is my favorite, due to her inner conflict and her struggles with her powers (and some juicy, heartbreaking family drama). I can’t wait to see her grow in Book 2!
The setting was so cool. Think a sci-fi world with fantasy elemental magic, an elusive royal family who runs the Dynestrate, and Martians who escaped here a hundred years ago. Through the inclusion of Martians, P.S. Devi really prompts some critical thinking on the systems of discrimination and oppression that drive people apart. The Martians are discriminated against, looked upon as second-class, and it's both powerful and heartbreaking to see that play out with Dalia's family. It's in this context that Devi introduces gene editing, and gosh, that plotline hurt. It was so, so good, handled in a manner appropriate for dystopian YA, but with themes that will easily resonate with older audiences.
Did I mention there's a murder conspiracy?? And that the FMC's dad is at the heart of it, trying to solve a case known as (wait for it) The Scarlet Files? In true 2010's FMC fashion, Terra recruits her friends to try to solve the conspiracy and exonerate her parents. In doing so, she reveals her inner fire, going up against a Dynestrate general, a mysterious criminal, and dark family secrets that change everything. I can't recommend it enough! It gives off Crescent City vibes, but with no spice, a YA crew and a sweet, very slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance.
Okay, if you're still here, I think this is a pretty good sign that you should go pick up the book!!
Like honestly, this is among the best books I’ve read in the past two years. If you're looking for the nostalgia of 2010's dystopian, this is the book for you! I’m completely obsessed and I am DESPERATE for Book 2!!
Starting with the absolutely incredible characters! Iyaz is such an incredible MMC. He gives off such strong Percy Jackson vibes (and all my childhood nostalgia) and he’s so sweet, endearing, and adorable. His conflict between who he is and who Terra’s parents want him to be is really powerful. I adore him! I really like Terra, too, and her family backstory is WILD. I need the prequel ASAP! I think Dalia is my favorite, due to her inner conflict and her struggles with her powers (and some juicy, heartbreaking family drama). I can’t wait to see her grow in Book 2!
The setting was so cool. Think a sci-fi world with fantasy elemental magic, an elusive royal family who runs the Dynestrate, and Martians who escaped here a hundred years ago. Through the inclusion of Martians, P.S. Devi really prompts some critical thinking on the systems of discrimination and oppression that drive people apart. The Martians are discriminated against, looked upon as second-class, and it's both powerful and heartbreaking to see that play out with Dalia's family. It's in this context that Devi introduces gene editing, and gosh, that plotline hurt. It was so, so good, handled in a manner appropriate for dystopian YA, but with themes that will easily resonate with older audiences.
Did I mention there's a murder conspiracy?? And that the FMC's dad is at the heart of it, trying to solve a case known as (wait for it) The Scarlet Files? In true 2010's FMC fashion, Terra recruits her friends to try to solve the conspiracy and exonerate her parents. In doing so, she reveals her inner fire, going up against a Dynestrate general, a mysterious criminal, and dark family secrets that change everything. I can't recommend it enough! It gives off Crescent City vibes, but with no spice, a YA crew and a sweet, very slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance.
Okay, if you're still here, I think this is a pretty good sign that you should go pick up the book!!
May 4, 2026
I was gifted an advance copy of this book by the author.
You guys, The Scarlet Files is fascinating, nostalgic, and FULL of heart. It's got that dystopian vibe, with a big futuristic city and people divided by their elemental powers (or lack thereof), and by whether they are Martian or Zeonian (a dichotomy that Devi uses to heartbreaking effect). While this book is totally appropriate for YA, its themes and characters are more than complex enough to hold an adult audience.
The story follows Terra as she tries to uncover a conspiracy that her parents, a diplomat and an agent, get wrapped up in. Along the way, her sweet friend Iyaz is determined to help and protect her, and Dalia rounds out the trio with her own agendas. Each member of this crew have their own intriguing backstories and motivations, and don't get me started on Ziek and Mersa, Terra's fascinating parents!
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for 2010s dystopian nostalgia with a fresh twist and elemental magic! And I cannot wait to see what P.S. Devi does next!
You guys, The Scarlet Files is fascinating, nostalgic, and FULL of heart. It's got that dystopian vibe, with a big futuristic city and people divided by their elemental powers (or lack thereof), and by whether they are Martian or Zeonian (a dichotomy that Devi uses to heartbreaking effect). While this book is totally appropriate for YA, its themes and characters are more than complex enough to hold an adult audience.
The story follows Terra as she tries to uncover a conspiracy that her parents, a diplomat and an agent, get wrapped up in. Along the way, her sweet friend Iyaz is determined to help and protect her, and Dalia rounds out the trio with her own agendas. Each member of this crew have their own intriguing backstories and motivations, and don't get me started on Ziek and Mersa, Terra's fascinating parents!
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for 2010s dystopian nostalgia with a fresh twist and elemental magic! And I cannot wait to see what P.S. Devi does next!
May 2, 2026
A nostalgic dystopian layered with family drama and political intrigue, this story delivers a uniquely immersive reading experience. From the start, I was drawn into its rich, atmospheric, sci-fi dystopian vibe.
At times, the sheer number of names and overlapping events made things a bit confusing, but the complexity also adds to the depth of the world. Beneath it all, the novel thoughtfully explores themes of prejudice, harassment, sacrifice, and the deep human need to belong. It reminds us that, above all, we must learn to rely on ourselves.
Overall, It's a unique story that blend sci-fi dystopia with fantasy, elements abilities, alien academia, secrets, and a thread of mystery and conspiracy. This book creates a genre bending experience that feels fresh and unforgettable.
Thank you to the aithor for the eARC, this is my honest review.
At times, the sheer number of names and overlapping events made things a bit confusing, but the complexity also adds to the depth of the world. Beneath it all, the novel thoughtfully explores themes of prejudice, harassment, sacrifice, and the deep human need to belong. It reminds us that, above all, we must learn to rely on ourselves.
Overall, It's a unique story that blend sci-fi dystopia with fantasy, elements abilities, alien academia, secrets, and a thread of mystery and conspiracy. This book creates a genre bending experience that feels fresh and unforgettable.
Thank you to the aithor for the eARC, this is my honest review.
May 3, 2026
AGHHH OMG I CANT BELIEVE THIS BOOK IS FINALY HERE 🥹 I’m so proud of you PS Devi and this book! The plot, the characters, the story line and EVERYTHING about this book is amazing. I love Iyaz, Dalia, and Terra so much, and if you’re thinking whether or not to read this book, here’s your sign to read it. THE PLOT TWIST WAS EVERYTHING and I’m shocked. Book 2 can’t come fast enough. I need it in my hands right now. If you love fantasy, sci fi, multiple povs, and the BIGGEST plot twist, this book is for you. Endlessly proud of u PS Devi, and I can’t wait to dig in even more in book 2. She has outdone herself and this is only the first book 👏 thank you so much for trusting me with this book and letting me read an ARC. This is the first of many, and I can’t wait to follow Dalia, Terra, and iyaz on their journey!! If you’re still reading this review, what are you doing?? Go read the book 😅
September 21, 2026
Unfortunately I spent the majority of this book quite confused. There were a lot of names being thrown around, some characters even having multiple names which was explained very well. I particularly found it difficult trying to navigate the world building especially with how little of the terms are explained either.
What did keep me going was the pace of the plot and its progression throughout the book. The premise of Iyaz getting his mind erased early on, Terra’s parents going missing and a strong villain hiding in this dense futuristic city really does grip you. Devi does a great job at making you think that not everything is as it seems and that there is something more sinister at hand.
What did keep me going was the pace of the plot and its progression throughout the book. The premise of Iyaz getting his mind erased early on, Terra’s parents going missing and a strong villain hiding in this dense futuristic city really does grip you. Devi does a great job at making you think that not everything is as it seems and that there is something more sinister at hand.
May 9, 2026
What a solid, intriguing, fast paced read! I loved the dynamics between the three main characters, the suspense was well done, and the world building was really neat! There is some violence, but overall I think it's awesome for YA readers as well as adults. No spice, there's hints at maybe a romance but for now nothing is definite.
If you're looking for suspense, light scifi elements, action, best friends working together to overcome a bad situation this is for you!
2 things I wish were slightly different:
1. The title is The Scarlet Files... I still don't entirely know what they are. It felt like it was a cool phrase the author wanted to include. Which it is cool for sure, but I wish it had been more a part of the story. Perhaps the series should have been called The Scarlet Files and book 1 called something different.
2. There are some major info dumps at the end as things that have been building the entire story are coming to a head. Things gets hard to keep track of and I had to reread sections multiple times to try and make sure I understood the connections.
All in all I enjoyed this sooo much. I'm looking forward to the next one!!
Huge thank you to the author for the advance copy!!
If you're looking for suspense, light scifi elements, action, best friends working together to overcome a bad situation this is for you!
2 things I wish were slightly different:
1. The title is The Scarlet Files... I still don't entirely know what they are. It felt like it was a cool phrase the author wanted to include. Which it is cool for sure, but I wish it had been more a part of the story. Perhaps the series should have been called The Scarlet Files and book 1 called something different.
2. There are some major info dumps at the end as things that have been building the entire story are coming to a head. Things gets hard to keep track of and I had to reread sections multiple times to try and make sure I understood the connections.
All in all I enjoyed this sooo much. I'm looking forward to the next one!!
Huge thank you to the author for the advance copy!!
April 25, 2026
This book had everything I didn’t know I needed. A futuristic society? Check. Elemental magic that also had some science behind it? Check. An intriguing “heist” plot that follows the children of the thieves and conspirators? Check. A strong friend group that stuck with each other despite their disagreements? Check. It reminded me so much of early 2010’s dystopian books with the friendship being the centerpiece. Every character had their flaws but that made me love them even more. I also loved how interconnected the plot was! Not a scene was wasted! I can’t wait to continue the series!
May 4, 2026
The Scarlet Files is built on buried truths and quiet tension; it moves quickly through a world shaped by power. The premise is strong with elemental abilities, political control, and a returning past. The pacing is snappy but doesn't slow down often enough to let the reader feel its weight.
The characters are compelling, but their emotions stay just out of reach, making the impact softer than it could be. It's a very impressive story that was a joy to read, but just missed a small mark that could've left the reader feeling haunted.
The characters are compelling, but their emotions stay just out of reach, making the impact softer than it could be. It's a very impressive story that was a joy to read, but just missed a small mark that could've left the reader feeling haunted.
April 22, 2026
The scarlet files took me into a futuristic world of fantasy where teenagers develop elemental powers. When one of the friends doesn’t develop the powers it causes the group to dive deeper! They find some scandalous stuff about their parents and while I was confused with the world development at first I started to imagine a star wars type setting which I absolutely love star wars so it was a big plus for me!
May 5, 2026
This book was so good! The characters were easy to connect with and funny and complex. I really related to Terra she was very sick as a child and I have had medical things going on since I little. This book was such an epic mix of sci-fi and fantasy. In fact it kind of gave Ironman 2 vibes now that I think about it and was really cool!!! Iyaz and Terra and how they care for each other was so cute!!! I cannot wait for book 2!!!
May 9, 2026
I loved this book!! This is why I read indie; The Scarlet Files is a great YA dystopian that tastefully & deeply deals w/ themes like racism, classism, and has well-written politics. I was completely engrossed, after a month-long reading block. My *only* criticism is that the prose can be a little lackluster at times. Can't wait for the next book!!
I received an ARC from the author—thank you sm!—and all opinions are mine.
I received an ARC from the author—thank you sm!—and all opinions are mine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Futuristic sci fi world with elemental magic!
This was a nostalgic dystopian, family drama and political intrigues read! At times I was a bit confused, so many names and things happening at once. I did really like the vibe of this, like the dystopian books I read in my teenage years and that is a great feeling to have while reading!
Thank you to the author for giving me an arc!
This was a nostalgic dystopian, family drama and political intrigues read! At times I was a bit confused, so many names and things happening at once. I did really like the vibe of this, like the dystopian books I read in my teenage years and that is a great feeling to have while reading!
Thank you to the author for giving me an arc!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews