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Starhawke Rising #1

The Dark of Light

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"An extraterrestrial colony threatened with extermination. A young female captain determined to protect them. And a deadly enemy she can't kill..."

In the mid twenty-third century, unexplained planetary destruction threatens Earth's sister planet, Gaia, and the nearly one million humans who call it home. Colonized when Earth faced environmental collapse, the planet has been a valuable agricultural resource, but the recent devastation threatens Gaia's future. The Galactic Council assigns the crew of the "Starhawke" to investigate.

Captain Aurora Hawke has faced danger all her life. Her non-human mother was forced to seek refuge on Earth when an alien force attacked their homeworld, destroying all who resisted. Aurora won't allow a similar fate to befall Gaia. But what her crew encounters on the planet's surface raises more questions than answers, where nothing is what it seems. And uncovering the truth behind the destruction will bring them face to face with a deadly adversary of unimaginable power, one who anticipates their every move, and knows their every weakness.

358 pages, Paperback

First published April 24, 2017

423 people are currently reading
634 people want to read

About the author

Audrey Sharpe

25 books49 followers
Audrey Sharpe grew up believing in the Force and dreaming of becoming captain of the Enterprise. She’s still working out the logistics of moving objects with her mind, but writing science fiction provides a pretty good alternative. When she’s not off exploring the galaxy with Aurora and her crew, she lives in the Sonoran Desert, where she has an excellent view of the stars. Connect with Audrey on Facebook and visit her website to download a free copy of the Starhawke Rising prequel, COMMANDER

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5 stars
384 (51%)
4 stars
247 (33%)
3 stars
89 (11%)
2 stars
17 (2%)
1 star
8 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
Profile Image for Jo .
2,679 reviews68 followers
March 14, 2016
This is the first book Sharpe has published and it is very good. The characters are great. The world building and the back-story both are worked in and keep the plot moving. There is a bit of a mystery in the relationship between several of the characters. Aurora Hawke and Jonarel have a long history but there is a bit of a guessing in what their relationship really is. Both have shared secrets. Then there is Cade who has a past history with Aurora. There are also several other great supporting characters in the book. The adventure for the crew of the Starhawke is just starting and I look forward to the next book in the series.
490 reviews25 followers
July 30, 2017
Amazingly Dull, Dimwitted, Drivel YA Soap Opera, Not Space Opera

"The Dark of Light (Starhawke Rising Book 1)," authored by Miss Audrey Sharpe, is an amazingly dull, dimwitted, drivel of a book. It unsuccessfully attempts to disguise its leftist-progressive political agenda, as a space opera, when it fact, it reads like a insipid YA soap opera. The words "emotion," (or its derivatives), and "refugees," appear unrelentingly throughout the text.

[Spoilers Ahead]

Centuries in the future, a human (maybe) female, an empath, who also has the ability to project emotional force fields, commands an alien built ship with her small crew. The vegan, sentient AI imbued ship, was built by her jealousy-prone, "Jolly Green Giant" alien boyfriend(?), and lover(?). Captain Aurora "Roe" Hawke, and her crew are sent on a secret, scientific mission to the agricultural planet of "Gaia," to determine the cause of puzzling swaths of crop destruction. Roe's ex-boyfriend, leads a special ops team, already on the planet, sent in to secretly protect her and her crew. Roe and most of the main characters, all have "histories" with each other, from youth, and/or their Fleet Academy years. The teams find the source of the attacks, and in doing so, Roe discovers more about her true self.

It is all so very, very DULL. The author dribbles out meager information about the characters, or the plot, while droning on, and on, about emotions, feelings, and psychobabble. Farmers and their families, unhurt, who leave their farmsteads while the investigation unfolds, are referred to as "refugees" ad naseum. The vegan and/vegetarian lifestyles are extolled. It's all very liberal, progressive, "safe space," and unremitting plodding. Think "Star Trek Academy," "Friends," and tofu all blended together, without excitement, humor, or seasoning. It is blandness personified. Watching paint dry, would have been a more productive use of my time, in hindsight.

This book is not recommended and was fully read (skimmed a lot in the interests of full disclosure) via Kindle Unlimited.



575 reviews7 followers
January 19, 2020
good book, missing some setup

I liked it. Good characters, interesting situation and story. I did feel, though, that the story would have worked better with more explicit background, especially around Aurora’s family and her previous relationship with Cade. Yes, I could figure both those out with the hints provided, but having the info sooner would better have grounded the story. I don’t like feeling like I’m missing part of the book, and that happened here. Will def. read the next one.

SPOILER
I think Reanne is the bad guy, not the dead security people. That was more than a little too obvious and someone should have questioned her about exactly what she was doing when the one person was killing herself. Looked like mind control to me and there’s no other way to adequately explain either what the woman was saying right before she pulled the trigger, or what Reanne said just after the woman killed herself.
1,084 reviews
April 21, 2022
solid space drama

This is an interesting space drama. Aurora is not quite human but she is a good captain. I found some of the sorry hard to believe, her powers were clearly not actually a secret, did the military really never notice? The cast are interesting, however this is a slow burn that feels like a the bad boy who hurts her to protect her is going to be the love interest, instead of the loyal alien friend. That didn’t work for me.
Profile Image for Killian McRae.
Author 32 books418 followers
March 14, 2018
Have you ever seen the pilot episode of a new series and thought, "well, now there's a breath of fresh air, I'm going to check that out!" That's how I felt reading this first installment of the Starhawke Rising series.

Sharpe's world building is en pointe, combining both familiar and novel themes and elements into her landscapes, characters, and plot. Our hero, Aurora Hawke, is the kind of strong women character Scifi fans clamor for: smart, independent, courageous, loyal to her crew, and also, just flawed and inwardly conflicted enough on occasion to give her dimension and realism. Her crew compliment both the story and Hawke herself, adding elements of other worlds, space, futurism, technology, security... Like a fine sauce, this balanced mix definitely enhances and even makes the dish. Although the book does have a well-defined arc, we get into the world just enough to understand its possibilities, and the book wraps up with a tempting hint at adventures to come.

A highly recommended read.
861 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2023
survival

A fantastic adventure that will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat! Who will betray them? Who is destroying the planet? Who does she live?
974 reviews4 followers
February 26, 2022
Decent story with people you might like, and others. Plenty of fantasy.
Profile Image for LilliSt.
243 reviews7 followers
January 4, 2022
This was a very enjoyable, fast paced beginning to a promising Sci-Fi series.

We follow captain Aurora Hawke and her crew as they are sent on a rather unconventional mission with a rather unconventional ship. They are to investigate the source of some very mysterious destruction of all life on a planet. The catch is that Aurora is not quite human and this mission will confront her and her friends with this fact in more than one way.

I thought that the plot was great: it was well constructed, engaging and the pacing was excellent. I loved that it was not centered around huge stakes, but rather a realistic problem to investigate and solve. It does get a bit tiring when the whole galaxy has to be saved all the time. It was the personal stakes that kept me reading and they felt realistic and relatable. I also did not see the big "twist" coming - if you can call it that - and I thought it was a great direction for the plot to take. The main storyline does get resolved, so there is no cliffhanger. However, plenty of tidbits of the big picture get introduced and create plenty of interest.
The world-building is very solid and reminscent of Star Trek in the best possible way.

I also liked the cast of characters a lot. They were diverse, had distinct personalities and I truly cared about them. They were all competent and professional when doing their job, even if they were flawed as persons.
The only thing I wasn't the greatest fan of was the romance part, with possible love triangle. Because suddenly very competent and responsible adults turned into incoherent, emotional messes who were utterly unable to communicate properly. I thought this was somewhat at odds with how they were presented otherwise, so this drama felt a bit manufactured.

Theres's another thing I didn't love: it is a pet peeve of mine when aliens from planets far away still are basically humans with a little twist. Best of all if they are genetically compatible with humans, too. It is just so very unrealistic and makes me work harder to suspend disbelief.
Of course, this is not exactly unique to this story - it's rather common (Star Trek is a major offender) and keeps annoying me.
I'm still a big Trekkie though, so what do I know ;)

In any case, this one's very definitely recommended and I am looking forward to finding out how the story continues!
Profile Image for Chad Cloman.
78 reviews2 followers
January 10, 2025
Confusing point-of-view switches; Diluted romance novel

I started out really liking this book, but things changed somewhere around the halfway point. Essentially, the character names and frequent point-of-view switches were confusing, and the second half turned into a very diluted romance novel.

The author tends to frequently switch the point of view between characters. This on its own wouldn’t be too bad, but each POV refers to the other characters as that character would. Sometimes they’re referred to by their last name. Sometimes their first name. And sometimes by nickname. And there’s one character who has multiple nicknames from different people. I found this fairly confusing. There were times when I literally didn’t know who they were referring to and had to do a quick search to remember who this character was. I considered creating a written cheat sheet to help.

The second half of the novel transformed into a heavily diluted romance novel. Lots of emotions. Lots of concern over emotions. Men doing their testosterone/anger thing over a woman. And so on. I ended up rolling my eyes pretty often, and several times I did it so hard that it physically hurt..

I like the overall storyline and the literary universe. But I really don’t want to subject myself to another novel like this one, so I won’t be continuing the series. Of course, your mileage may vary.

I give it 3/5 stars.
Profile Image for Nancy.
Author 40 books667 followers
September 6, 2022
Aurora Hawke captains her starship to the planet Gaia where colonists’ crops have been destroyed. Farmlands are being methodically ruined, and it’s her assignment to find out what’s causing this disaster. As she investigates, she encounters a shocking secret that relates back to her own mysterious origins. Distinctive characters, detailed world building, and an intriguing plot make this story a winner. There’s a bit of genre blending when Aurora develops powers beyond her half-human abilities.
Profile Image for Stéphanie.
70 reviews
October 20, 2025
The book started out great then went downhill at the half point. It's an accumulation of a lot of small problems instead of one big problem.

1. Too many name switches. There is a lot of different POV in this book. Since all the characters have different levels of familiarity between each other, most characters are using the family name to refer to a specific character, others use their first name and some use nicknames. It gets really confusing in the second half of the book and I frequently had to go back to some other part of the book to confirm who they were referring to.

2. A few plot holes.

3. Not enough backstory. I just wished we had more backstory for the relationships Aurora and other characters (mainly Cade). I know this will probably be explained in the other books of the series but it just leaves too many unexplained things in The Dark of Light.

The book was not bad but not great either. I don't know if I will continue the series. Honestly, if I do, it will probably be because I really want to read a space opera book where the romance is not that predominant instead of me really wanting to continue this series.
1,185 reviews17 followers
December 19, 2018
First book world building, a little slow in the beginning but picks up during the middle end of the book.

This was a good book for the first book in a series. Of course a little slow in the beginning because of world building and character development. I enjoyed the character development of the Starhawk group, just not enough star in that development. After all the name of the book is Starhawk rising. It could’ve used a little more science and Fiction and it’s science fiction. Don’t like the romantic implications in the book, I think it complicates the captains life. Of course they need a Mail crew or group of men to protect them. Not buying that either. I will read the next book and see how it goes. This book did not turn me off and I suggest others read it as well.
Profile Image for Barbara.
1,330 reviews55 followers
November 23, 2019
In the first of the Starhawke Rising series, Captain Aurora Hawke has a new ship with a new crew, and although the crew is made up of good friends handpicked by Aurora, this is the first mission they’ve been assigned together. She’s just missing a pilot, and the person assigned to fill in is Cade Ellis, the man she’s tried hard to forget. First they have to find a way to work together, then they must investigate mysterious attacks on the planet Gaia, which leads them to some startling discoveries, incredible danger, unexpected enemies, and some information about Aurora’s background that she never expected. I loved Aurora and her crew and look forward to the next adventure for this group of wonderful characters and their beautiful ship, the Starhawke.
Profile Image for Diana.
137 reviews
December 10, 2023
What a fun book! Aurora Hawke is smart, loyal and everything you could want in a heroine. Her crew of friends are likable.

Characters are easy to get to know while having enough layers that you don’t know it all at once and I’m sure we’ll learn more and more as the series develops. The crisis they find themselves involved in is interesting, life and death stuff while avoiding overly graphic violence.

There is tension between some of the crew for a variety of reasons including a sub-sub-plot possible love triangle which seems to be of the slow burn, gonna take a number of books to ultimately resolve.

Interesting overarching storyline that continues in book 2 but no cliff hanger that leaves you super anxious.

Definitely worth the read for those who enjoy lighter science fiction.
Profile Image for Michaela Shannon-sank.
28 reviews
November 21, 2022
Looking forward to more!

I discovered this series by happy accident, and am about to start the third book (read the first two out of order!) and I have to say I WANT MORE!!! The stories are heartwarming and exciting and imaginative and pulse pounding and so rich in detail. I adore these characters, and am so glad we have some amazing female characters that are strong and believable, not simply there to fill a space or act as a sidekick. The writing is very good too, the story moves along smoothly and reads easily. All in all, I foresee myself re-reading this one as soon as I am finished with the series. Which I hope won’t happen soon!!
19 reviews1 follower
July 4, 2025
Great read. Not a space Opera but a definite Star Trek vibe.

Great story line. Really liked the characters so well developed. I particularly liked the alien species involved in this book. They were exciting to learn about. The story had a nice flow to it with interesting characters, some nice twists, and turns and a happy ending. Couldn’t ask for more than that in a sci-fi book. I highly recommend it if you like Star Trek you’re gonna love this book. Can’t wait to read the next episode.
287 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2021
Military sci-fi

You either love it or hate it. I love it and Audrey Sharpe did a great job. This isn't quite as military as the Honor Harrington series which lovers of military sci-fi will know. Our female lead has just left the military and pulls her crew from those career relationships. Political complexity builds throughout the story, peaking at the end to lead the reader towards book two. Which I'm going to download now.
Profile Image for Cc.
2,087 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2023
Aurora and (tbd)

As the Captain of the StarHawk Aurora gets to choose her friends to be most of her crew.

Sent on their first assignment to Gaia (an earth like planet) that is experiencing total crop death in areas. Cade and his Rescue Team are sent too but their mission is to keep Aurora safe.

Strange beings, new people and Cade, an old boyfriend, makes it hard for Aurora to keep her gift a secret.

Great story, with more mystery to be revealed in later books.
195 reviews
March 22, 2024
surprisingly good

Surprisingly, because I got this book on a whim. I had no expectations and so I’m glad I read it. Is it perfect? No. But the characters are enjoyable, the story is well written, and the universe is extremely well done. I especially liked how the author never described how the whole Galactic Council worked or how the universe was ordered but she didn’t have to because it was not needed to get into the story. Good book, well written.
194 reviews
August 10, 2024
Heartgripping story about a crew of different kinds of beings that saves lives while protecting their secrets.
Different kind of friendships developed as well as enemies detected.
Unfinished business at the end and the tension is so good! Believable characters and relationships.
The flow of the story could use some more, sometimes things were not explained or thrown put while you are guessing what really happened. This mostly happened when things about the past were told. Aside of that, I want to start in the next book.
Profile Image for C.A. Knutsen.
Author 8 books90 followers
November 27, 2019
A great series starter

Terrific characters. Engaging plot. Intrigue. The tension between the three main characters adds pressure to the rest of the story. The threats are serious and in the midst of the action one never knows who's going to make it. I'm reading the prequel and looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Recommended.
Profile Image for Kathleen Reed.
923 reviews2 followers
February 1, 2021
Sci-fi universe at it's best

I was memorized by the universe and the entire development of the characters. I totally enjoyed this space adventure and can't wait to read the next.

My favorite line, “Never underestimate the humanoid ability to create methods of rampant destruction the universe never intended.”
Profile Image for Ardis.
96 reviews
July 31, 2022
My first book by this author.

A really interesting read/concept. Quite a bit of action too. Will definitely read more of this series. On the down side I did find the MC's anger at her friend for honoring her families wishes a little over the top. Hope things progress a little more emphatically!
Profile Image for Vicky Dabbs Cooper.
28 reviews
July 13, 2023
Star Treck lovers will LOVE this book!

I have been a Star Trek fan since the 70's, wow, that dates me! This book put the same feelings in play! Curiosity, drama, intrigued, and the guess who mixed with aliens, a star ship and a curious crew. How can it NOT be a hit. Fast paced and great world building.
Profile Image for Joe Anshien.
75 reviews
May 2, 2024
Dam names. The author keeps referring to the characters by different names and it gets very confusing and tedious to try and figure out who is who. Also I hate love triangles and she loves him but how can he love her BS. Correct that and it could have been a 4.5 star book. Not sure I will go on or not.
Profile Image for Heather Texle.
Author 4 books26 followers
August 28, 2024
I’m a sucker for a misfit crew/found family kind of story. Put them on a spaceship? Now that’s my kind of fun. The Dark of Light blends space opera with a bit of paranormal that keeps the story interesting and the reader guessing as to the true cause of planetary mystery. I flew through the book in one weekend and am looking forward to picking up the next installment!
295 reviews
October 8, 2019
Whoopi!

Oh, I’m going to like this series! Real sci-fi, with all the elements of the StarTrek family that I really loved. Book one was fast paced but not so fast that you can’t enjoy every minute of the story. I’m so glad that Amazon showcased them!
72 reviews
June 18, 2020
Great start

Enjoyed getting to know the characters. Looking forward to seeing where they go from here. Awesome addition to my collection. Recommended for everyone who likes a strong lead in a story.
14 reviews
February 26, 2023
enjoyable, fun book

This book is well written. It has fully developed characters with a strong female lead. She and everyone else have some weaknesses that make them interesting sentient beings
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews

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