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Sky Full of Stars #3
Stolen Legacy
Even though Captain Jelena Marchenko has Starseer talents, such as telepathy and telekinesis, she has grown up feeling ostracized by the Starseer community. She longs for an opportunity to prove that she deserves a place among them.
When an old friend of the family shows up, seeking transportation to the site of an ancient Starseer relic, Jelena believes this may be her chance to prove herself. If she helps Abelardus recover an artifact that's important to the Starseer community, perhaps she’ll finally be invited to join.
But once they are on their way to the site, she starts to question what Abelardus plans to do with the artifact—and if he even has the right to dig it up. Further, she wonders why it’s been left alone for centuries. Is there a reason nobody tried to recover it before? And is it worth risking the lives of herself and her crew to win the good regard of strangers?
When an old friend of the family shows up, seeking transportation to the site of an ancient Starseer relic, Jelena believes this may be her chance to prove herself. If she helps Abelardus recover an artifact that's important to the Starseer community, perhaps she’ll finally be invited to join.
But once they are on their way to the site, she starts to question what Abelardus plans to do with the artifact—and if he even has the right to dig it up. Further, she wonders why it’s been left alone for centuries. Is there a reason nobody tried to recover it before? And is it worth risking the lives of herself and her crew to win the good regard of strangers?
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First published May 20, 2017
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About the author
Lindsay Buroker
198 books6,236 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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May 21, 2017Jelena is struggling against boredom with freight hauling--she wants to be part of the Starseer Community, which ignores her existence, but more, she wants to do something with her life. More than haul freight and get chewed out for dumb stuff that isn't her fault. And of course there's broody Prince Thorian, with assassins after him, and his goal to reknit his father's empire.
The Snapper, Jelena's turtle-shaped freighter, gets contacted by an old friend of her parents, through them, for an archaeological expedition that seems more and more suspicious. That's because it is. The trip leads to lots of action, a discovery with profoundly resonating results, and a very satisfying resolution .
This is the last in this particular arc of the space opera series begun with the Fallen Empire arc--I hope there will be more. I think Prince Thorian and Jelena are my favorite of Buroker's duos, and I like them all. But these two have so much potential, they are so fun together, complex with realistic as well as larger-than-life issues with an enchantingly charismatic overlay of humor and compassion. Even grace, underneath the banter, which I always love. And of course, lots of action, and a cast of colorful characters.
May 31, 2017
Now this is sci-fi!
Look what this book has!
- An ancient alien civilisation
- A quest for a lost artifact that'll give its wielder unfathomable power
- Hiding in a creepy asteroid field
- Exploring an ancient space ship full of the bodies of people who died in a shift and mysterious way
- Ethical and moral discussions worthy of star trek tos
- Betrayal!
I wish all sci-fi/space opera books were like this!
Also, I'm pleased that a certain relationship became more certain, even if I believe it needs more boundaries re.: mind reading...
Look what this book has!
- An ancient alien civilisation
- A quest for a lost artifact that'll give its wielder unfathomable power
- Hiding in a creepy asteroid field
- Exploring an ancient space ship full of the bodies of people who died in a shift and mysterious way
- Ethical and moral discussions worthy of star trek tos
- Betrayal!
I wish all sci-fi/space opera books were like this!
Also, I'm pleased that a certain relationship became more certain, even if I believe it needs more boundaries re.: mind reading...
May 21, 2017
A new adventure awaits Jelena and the crew of the Snapper: Old family frenemy Abelardus has contacted Alisa and Leonidas to hire a vessel for an archaeological exploration and Starseer treasure hunting trip out into the Trajean Asteroid Belt, and as they themselves are currently too busy, the job is offered to Jelena. Taking a break from running freight to take part in an intriguing and well-paid mission that might even get the Starseer community to stop ignoring her existence sounds like just the thing, and in short order Jelena's bunch of misfits are off to collect Abelardus, Brody (the exceedingly unlikable Starseer archaologist accompanying him), and young science student Zhou, who has apparently been chosen to come along by Leonidas mostly to provide Jelena with a viable alternative candidate for romantic entanglements. Of course, it soon turns out that they're not the only ones looking for the mysterious artifact Abelardus and Brody have set their sights on, and their mission isn't exactly officially sanctioned either, thanks to which our heroes now have not only a bunch of pirates but also some decidedly displeased Starseer government officials to deal with. Meanwhile, Thor, still set on reestablishing the empire, wants the artifact for himself, causing additional trouble in an already problematic and dangerous situation.
Lindsay Buroker delivers another delightfully entertaining volume of fastpaced sci-fi adventure fun with plenty of humour and a few unexpected twists. Surprising absolutely noone, Abelardus is still a selfish jerk, but it was still fun to have one of the Fallen Empire characters along for the ride rather than just popping up for a brief cameo appearance in this one. We also finally get to see Thorian let down his walls a little and let Jelena in, allowing the two of them to grow a little closer. And it seems the big multi-volume background story arc for this series will be getting properly under way with the next volume, which I'm already very much looking forward to!
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Lindsay Buroker delivers another delightfully entertaining volume of fastpaced sci-fi adventure fun with plenty of humour and a few unexpected twists. Surprising absolutely noone, Abelardus is still a selfish jerk, but it was still fun to have one of the Fallen Empire characters along for the ride rather than just popping up for a brief cameo appearance in this one. We also finally get to see Thorian let down his walls a little and let Jelena in, allowing the two of them to grow a little closer. And it seems the big multi-volume background story arc for this series will be getting properly under way with the next volume, which I'm already very much looking forward to!
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2017
Like mother, like daughter, amirite?!?! Relics and danger and sometimes questionable allies all wrapped up in a spaceship that everybody underestimates. Or maybe it's the ship's captain who gets underestimated. Either way. Nobody expects the Snapper (or her crew) to do what they do.
Or to get out of the tight situations they invariably find themselves in.
With the addition of a handful of temporary guests, we get to see a different dynamic settle over the crew. While Jelena loves captaining, she's still uncertain if the choices she's making for the ship and crew are the right ones. Considering Thor's sometimes bloody focus on following the path his father set down for him, Jelena's desire to not seek out harm (on herself or others)... well, let's just say he's starting to consider that the path he's following might not be the only one available to him.
*stares at everyone with my gleeful eyes*
(Seriously, I really like the conflict in Thorian. He's been forged into a weapon, but that doesn't mean he doesn't have options. Plus, I'm endlessly holding out hope that Jelena's more optimistic outlook on life will rub off on Thor.)
Old friends (of a sort), plenty of dangerous situations, and one idealistic, young captain all come together to give us a new adventure across the stars.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Or to get out of the tight situations they invariably find themselves in.
With the addition of a handful of temporary guests, we get to see a different dynamic settle over the crew. While Jelena loves captaining, she's still uncertain if the choices she's making for the ship and crew are the right ones. Considering Thor's sometimes bloody focus on following the path his father set down for him, Jelena's desire to not seek out harm (on herself or others)... well, let's just say he's starting to consider that the path he's following might not be the only one available to him.
*stares at everyone with my gleeful eyes*
(Seriously, I really like the conflict in Thorian. He's been forged into a weapon, but that doesn't mean he doesn't have options. Plus, I'm endlessly holding out hope that Jelena's more optimistic outlook on life will rub off on Thor.)
Old friends (of a sort), plenty of dangerous situations, and one idealistic, young captain all come together to give us a new adventure across the stars.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 2, 2017
Another by the numbers book in the Sky Full of Stars series. My gripe about this been a poorer version of Star Wars is still valid here. This story is almost like fan fiction of what happens when the Millenium Falcon is almost eaten by the cavern monster. But this is still a good time waster.
June 9, 2017
Another hit! Lindsay Buroker is a fabulous author and the series Sky Full of Stars is a prime example of her skill. The book is chock-full of action, adventure, intrigue, and underlying passion. The relationship between Thor and Jelena has been intensifying and this installment brings it even further along. If you read any other of Lindsey's books you know that she is a master at building tension between couples that leaves the reader sitting on the edge of their seat rooting them on. This is no less true in this case. As always, it is coupled with a great story that shows her hero struggling to always do the right thing while protecting those she loves, ever mindful of the greater good. Add to that great world building as well as fantastic dialogue that leaves you smiling and makes her characters seem all the more real. Even her supporting characters have a depth that most authors fail to achieve with their main ones. I received an advanced reader's copy with no obligation to review, but I do so enthusiastically and highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys great science fiction with a touch of magic.
March 30, 2020
I usually don't like spin-off series as much as the series from where they originate from, but this is only my subjective preference. In any case, this third book was a step above the first two books in this spin-off series,
April 12, 2018
Hmmmm...
So... I read the first book because I loved the universe. And I pushed my way through the second book because I really wanted to be swept away with a story, and it almost lost me... By this book, I'm really glad I stuck with it.
I honestly was not quite understanding where the characters were coming from, even though I knew the backstory, I wasn't quite getting why they chose to act the way they do. I can see the whole picture now, I think... And that makes me happy.
So... I read the first book because I loved the universe. And I pushed my way through the second book because I really wanted to be swept away with a story, and it almost lost me... By this book, I'm really glad I stuck with it.
I honestly was not quite understanding where the characters were coming from, even though I knew the backstory, I wasn't quite getting why they chose to act the way they do. I can see the whole picture now, I think... And that makes me happy.
April 10, 2024
Well I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The first book wasn’t my favourite but each book got better. Unfortunately this is the last book in the series, I hope there’s more but it had the action/adventure, good story, interesting characters and interactions
January 28, 2018
I really liked this book. I hadn’t the highest hopes for this series when I read Rogue Prince, but the last two books made up for it. I should’ve had more faith in Buroker that’s for sure. It was funny at times, exciting, adventurous, a little bit romantic, and also sad at times.
The opening of this book had a good insight on Jelena’s powers and what she could potentially do with them. The
The fact that she was kind of pushed to use them in a way she had never done so before was a sort of foreshadowing I guess. I found the job her mom offers her intriguing to say the least. Buroker has created many interesting books around archelogy so I was looking forward to it. Who would’ve thought that Jelena’s talent for animals would be needed?
The characters introduced for this book … were interesting. I wasn’t too thrilled with Abelardus though. I thought his character was pretty annoying in the original series and his gun ho obsession with getting a star seer artifact was … bleh. I’m glad he has a wife that will prod him back from being a dork. Brady … man I realllly didn’t like him that is for sure. I thought it was cute how Leonidas sent Joe along to keep Jelena free from Thor. His befuddled/focused scientist personality was helpful in explaining the unexpected they found in that asteroid that is for sure.
The end of this book really got to me. I really wasn’t expecting that, but I was grateful that it ended up being that bit to get Thor off of his single-minded quest. I’m now really curious to see where he and Jelena go after this book whenever she gets back to writing in Sci-Fi for this name again.
I really, really thought the secrets the asteroid held were awesome and show how imaginative Buroker can be. I won’t say too much since it would be a big spoiler if I did.
What about that gold ship though??
The opening of this book had a good insight on Jelena’s powers and what she could potentially do with them. The
The fact that she was kind of pushed to use them in a way she had never done so before was a sort of foreshadowing I guess. I found the job her mom offers her intriguing to say the least. Buroker has created many interesting books around archelogy so I was looking forward to it. Who would’ve thought that Jelena’s talent for animals would be needed?
The characters introduced for this book … were interesting. I wasn’t too thrilled with Abelardus though. I thought his character was pretty annoying in the original series and his gun ho obsession with getting a star seer artifact was … bleh. I’m glad he has a wife that will prod him back from being a dork. Brady … man I realllly didn’t like him that is for sure. I thought it was cute how Leonidas sent Joe along to keep Jelena free from Thor. His befuddled/focused scientist personality was helpful in explaining the unexpected they found in that asteroid that is for sure.
The end of this book really got to me. I really wasn’t expecting that, but I was grateful that it ended up being that bit to get Thor off of his single-minded quest. I’m now really curious to see where he and Jelena go after this book whenever she gets back to writing in Sci-Fi for this name again.
I really, really thought the secrets the asteroid held were awesome and show how imaginative Buroker can be. I won’t say too much since it would be a big spoiler if I did.
What about that gold ship though??
February 1, 2020
The 3rd book in which Jelena is a young Captain of a trader ship whose crew, like her mother's, is eclectic. The Prince without a throne, Thor, does the most growing in this story. While some dislike the romantic arc, it is not overdone, and I thought fitness necessary to support the direction of his character. Completely clean and age appropriate.
Her engineer Erik and his younger brother (who continues to search for ghosts) are joined in this trip by a Star Seer seeking an artifact - a former interesting but somewhat overbearing passenger we have met before together with a not so good Starseer. Admittedly, we are not always sure which are good and which are bad Starseers, but Jelena wants to be accepted and invited in by that constituent of her inherited genes.
I didnt feel this story was of the same quality as the last one. The continuation of our main female character doing stupid things and making bad choices in the first few chapters has gotten old. Considering her choices in the 2nd book, I expected more from her at the start of this one.
Overall, while a solid young adult story in the series, it was slow starting, not as action packed, and our special guest appearance of a prior character was lacking as compared to his character in the companion series.
I received this book for free from the author.
Her engineer Erik and his younger brother (who continues to search for ghosts) are joined in this trip by a Star Seer seeking an artifact - a former interesting but somewhat overbearing passenger we have met before together with a not so good Starseer. Admittedly, we are not always sure which are good and which are bad Starseers, but Jelena wants to be accepted and invited in by that constituent of her inherited genes.
I didnt feel this story was of the same quality as the last one. The continuation of our main female character doing stupid things and making bad choices in the first few chapters has gotten old. Considering her choices in the 2nd book, I expected more from her at the start of this one.
Overall, while a solid young adult story in the series, it was slow starting, not as action packed, and our special guest appearance of a prior character was lacking as compared to his character in the companion series.
I received this book for free from the author.
May 30, 2017
Not The Quality Writing Expected From Buroker
"Stolen Legacy: Sky Full of Stars, Book 3," authored by Miss Lindsay Buroker, was a disappointment on many levels. The continuation of a YA level series, inspired by the "Star Nomad," is not paramount. What is particularly vexing for this reviewer, is the prior quality of the author's writing, regardless of the genre and/or storyline, is absent. Miss Buroker has always had skill in writing, a deft touch of narrative, passages, and basic craftsmanship in constructing sentences. Even if a book wasn't in this reviewer's wheelhouse, appreciation of the writing was always there. In "Stolen Legacy," the writing is functionally poor, with "...but...," appearing in sentences with a frequency to rival commas. Metaphors and analogies are inane. Proofreading is lethargic. The writing frankly appears to be in the vein of a "cheap import," done in haste, to garner profit.
The greedy dictum of "quantity over quality," seems to have overtaken the author's production values.
"Stolen Legacy: Sky Full of Stars, Book 3," authored by Miss Lindsay Buroker, was a disappointment on many levels. The continuation of a YA level series, inspired by the "Star Nomad," is not paramount. What is particularly vexing for this reviewer, is the prior quality of the author's writing, regardless of the genre and/or storyline, is absent. Miss Buroker has always had skill in writing, a deft touch of narrative, passages, and basic craftsmanship in constructing sentences. Even if a book wasn't in this reviewer's wheelhouse, appreciation of the writing was always there. In "Stolen Legacy," the writing is functionally poor, with "...but...," appearing in sentences with a frequency to rival commas. Metaphors and analogies are inane. Proofreading is lethargic. The writing frankly appears to be in the vein of a "cheap import," done in haste, to garner profit.
The greedy dictum of "quantity over quality," seems to have overtaken the author's production values.
June 8, 2017
Better than the first two. At least the romance is moving along and it would seem that Thor is not the Leonides/Sicarius clone as portrayed prior. We also get a glimmer of the future plot arc, which does sound interesting.
The core plot of the book was a little silly, and basically rested on the fact that two characters could not speak. If Jelena could have spoken to Younghee in Chapter 3 (and it was not really explained why that did not happen) then the whole book would not have happened. Made it a bit silly really, especially as the whole situation was so obviously dodgy from the start.
The core plot of the book was a little silly, and basically rested on the fact that two characters could not speak. If Jelena could have spoken to Younghee in Chapter 3 (and it was not really explained why that did not happen) then the whole book would not have happened. Made it a bit silly really, especially as the whole situation was so obviously dodgy from the start.
May 29, 2017
One of the best of the three so far! I felt it is more into the Fallen Empire series, which I like! Jelena seems to be more and more like her Mom,Alisa, strong willed, caring, great sense of humour, daring... I really enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to the next one!
May 30, 2017
Not my favorite of the bunch but interesting enough to keep me coming back for more.
July 17, 2017
Book 3 Stolen Legacy
I liked the book but felt a great deal of the time it was rushed and I felt that the story needed more depth
I liked the book but felt a great deal of the time it was rushed and I felt that the story needed more depth
January 5, 2018
The romantic storyline is very repetitive, but the writing is upbeat and funny.
January 31, 2018
What does it says about a book if two days after finishing three in the series you cannot remember what it was about reading the title?
I just strongly remember how much I dislike the heroine.
I just strongly remember how much I dislike the heroine.
May 24, 2017
*I received an ARC from the author*
This is book 3 in the Sky Full of Stars series and not my favorite installment, unfortunately.
Synopsis: In between cargo runs Jelena agrees to take Abelardus and a colleague of his to an asteroid belt to recover an important starseer artifact. The job seems innocuous enough, especially as it was arranged by Jelena’s parents, although Leonidas inserts Jelena’s friend Zhou into the mission in an obvious ploy to divert her romantic interest away from Thor. Jelena and her crew soon have to discover that they are not the only ones after the artifact, and moreover, it appears increasingly questionable whether their passengers have been even sanctioned by the starseer community to retrieve the artifact. All of a sudden various people want to lay claim to it for reasons of their own: Abelardus wants it to increase the standing of his family in the community, Brody (Aberlardus’ colleague) sees its potential as a weapon, and Thor considers it as a means on the way to fulfill his destiny to resurrect the empire. When Jelena finally comes to the conclusion that it would be safer to stay out of the race completely it is too late and they are forced to make an emergency landing on the asteroid, only to discover that they are neither the first trying to retrieve the artifact, nor are they the only life-form on the asteroid….
As we have come to expect from Lindsay Buroker she once again delivers an exciting and fast-paced tale with lots of action. But the beginning of this episode did feel a bit slow; maybe this is also due to the fact that is seems to lack an overarching arc of suspense like the one that drove Fallen Empire, where everything was subordinated to Alisa’s quest to find and recover her daughter, even if the route was kind of circuitous. As readers we knew from the beginning that the culmination of the story would be the reunion of mother and daughter.
With this book I had the very strong feeling that not only did the characters not precisely know where their life-path would take them, but neither did the author, as if she weren’t sure how to continue the story. The first two installments contained some strong indicators that Prince Thor was – or at least saw himself – on a path to fulfilling his destiny and rebuild the empire (in whatever form). Now he is all of a sudden very unsure about what he is doing.
And with Jelena it felt like there was quite a bit of a development between book one and two, that she started to see the bigger picture and tried to take responsibility for her actions and even managed to prevent a full-scale conflict by some clever political maneuvering. Then in the opening of Stolen Legacy she makes a rookie-mistake – she is allowed – but she does not seem to regain any control of her ship or events as things progress.
Abelardus was quite a disappointment: I used to quite like him in Fallen Empire, but instead of becoming maybe a bit wiser and more settled (he is a father 5 times over), he comes across as an opportunist without much of a backbone, who is willing not only to sell out his own beliefs but also the kid(s) of his friends, and all to gain some social prestige for his son who isn’t out of diapers yet.
Then there is the budding romance between Jelena and Thor, I admit there have been some subtle signs all along, although much seemed to be grounded more in Jelena’s feelings than in actual events – and I was perfectly fine with that – but now all of a sudden Thor has a complete turnabout, and the formerly aloof and lethal princely assassin gets all insecure and emotional and pours out his heart, making their romantic encounter (if it can be called such) rather cheesy.
Naturally I am still looking very much forward to learning how the story continues, but I can’t give this book more than 4 well-intended stars.
This is book 3 in the Sky Full of Stars series and not my favorite installment, unfortunately.
Synopsis: In between cargo runs Jelena agrees to take Abelardus and a colleague of his to an asteroid belt to recover an important starseer artifact. The job seems innocuous enough, especially as it was arranged by Jelena’s parents, although Leonidas inserts Jelena’s friend Zhou into the mission in an obvious ploy to divert her romantic interest away from Thor. Jelena and her crew soon have to discover that they are not the only ones after the artifact, and moreover, it appears increasingly questionable whether their passengers have been even sanctioned by the starseer community to retrieve the artifact. All of a sudden various people want to lay claim to it for reasons of their own: Abelardus wants it to increase the standing of his family in the community, Brody (Aberlardus’ colleague) sees its potential as a weapon, and Thor considers it as a means on the way to fulfill his destiny to resurrect the empire. When Jelena finally comes to the conclusion that it would be safer to stay out of the race completely it is too late and they are forced to make an emergency landing on the asteroid, only to discover that they are neither the first trying to retrieve the artifact, nor are they the only life-form on the asteroid….
As we have come to expect from Lindsay Buroker she once again delivers an exciting and fast-paced tale with lots of action. But the beginning of this episode did feel a bit slow; maybe this is also due to the fact that is seems to lack an overarching arc of suspense like the one that drove Fallen Empire, where everything was subordinated to Alisa’s quest to find and recover her daughter, even if the route was kind of circuitous. As readers we knew from the beginning that the culmination of the story would be the reunion of mother and daughter.
With this book I had the very strong feeling that not only did the characters not precisely know where their life-path would take them, but neither did the author, as if she weren’t sure how to continue the story. The first two installments contained some strong indicators that Prince Thor was – or at least saw himself – on a path to fulfilling his destiny and rebuild the empire (in whatever form). Now he is all of a sudden very unsure about what he is doing.
And with Jelena it felt like there was quite a bit of a development between book one and two, that she started to see the bigger picture and tried to take responsibility for her actions and even managed to prevent a full-scale conflict by some clever political maneuvering. Then in the opening of Stolen Legacy she makes a rookie-mistake – she is allowed – but she does not seem to regain any control of her ship or events as things progress.
Abelardus was quite a disappointment: I used to quite like him in Fallen Empire, but instead of becoming maybe a bit wiser and more settled (he is a father 5 times over), he comes across as an opportunist without much of a backbone, who is willing not only to sell out his own beliefs but also the kid(s) of his friends, and all to gain some social prestige for his son who isn’t out of diapers yet.
Then there is the budding romance between Jelena and Thor, I admit there have been some subtle signs all along, although much seemed to be grounded more in Jelena’s feelings than in actual events – and I was perfectly fine with that – but now all of a sudden Thor has a complete turnabout, and the formerly aloof and lethal princely assassin gets all insecure and emotional and pours out his heart, making their romantic encounter (if it can be called such) rather cheesy.
Naturally I am still looking very much forward to learning how the story continues, but I can’t give this book more than 4 well-intended stars.
May 24, 2017
After a mix up with her latest delivery, Alisa and Leonidas contact Jelena about a new mission. They tell her she can either accept or deny it, it’s no difference to them, considering neither really like the person asking to use their company for the travel. With some reluctance, Jelena decides to take on Abeldarus and his small team for an archaeological mission to look for a Starseer artifact.
It’s unclear what the artifact is, or what it can do, or if anyone should actually find it. Jelena is unsure of Abeldarus’ teammate, Mark Brody. It’s unclear what his ultimate motive is for finding the artifact, and he will only give them all vague information about it, making him suspicious. Zhou Tiang also comes along, someone Jelena knows from school, and feels slightly uncomfortable around because they dated over a year ago. She never really ended things with him, and is unsure if he’s come along to get close to her again.
They make their way to the asteroid the artifact is buried within, with pirates and Starseers on their tail, all wanting the artifact as well. Everyone’s motives for finding the artifact is unclear, and it’s still a question as to if it should be found at all. As I read each part when the Starseers used their powers, I can’t help but think that Jelena needs to practice/learn more with her own Starseer powers. She is vulnerable to too many attacks, and depends on Erick and Thor for a lot when it comes to protecting herself or attacking others. Talking to animals is great, but she needs more practice delving into human minds and blocking her own from attacks.
As hard and tough as Thor has been throughout this series, something happens to make him finally admit to Jelena, “I don’t know what the f--- I’m doing.” Although he’s shown on the outside he’s confident, and has plans to build an empire like his father wanted of him, Thor is unsure how to do what he needs to do. He asks Jelena, “And if I stay on the path I’m on and intentionally go out and start a war, how much more would I cause to be destroyed?” It was nice to see Thor was human after all. He let his barriers down, let out his emotions, his doubts, to Jelena. He reached out, looking for her support, for her input on what he should do. Jelena broaches a plan, and he agrees although he is hesitant to involve Jelena. He wants to keep her safe from those out for him, but Jelena doesn’t care. She wants to help him in any way she can, no matter the danger.
I liked this episode in the Sky Full of Stars series, reading it quickly within a day. It was quite the page turner. I will continue reading more of the crew’s adventures as long as Lindsay writes them.
I was given a free ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
It’s unclear what the artifact is, or what it can do, or if anyone should actually find it. Jelena is unsure of Abeldarus’ teammate, Mark Brody. It’s unclear what his ultimate motive is for finding the artifact, and he will only give them all vague information about it, making him suspicious. Zhou Tiang also comes along, someone Jelena knows from school, and feels slightly uncomfortable around because they dated over a year ago. She never really ended things with him, and is unsure if he’s come along to get close to her again.
They make their way to the asteroid the artifact is buried within, with pirates and Starseers on their tail, all wanting the artifact as well. Everyone’s motives for finding the artifact is unclear, and it’s still a question as to if it should be found at all. As I read each part when the Starseers used their powers, I can’t help but think that Jelena needs to practice/learn more with her own Starseer powers. She is vulnerable to too many attacks, and depends on Erick and Thor for a lot when it comes to protecting herself or attacking others. Talking to animals is great, but she needs more practice delving into human minds and blocking her own from attacks.
As hard and tough as Thor has been throughout this series, something happens to make him finally admit to Jelena, “I don’t know what the f--- I’m doing.” Although he’s shown on the outside he’s confident, and has plans to build an empire like his father wanted of him, Thor is unsure how to do what he needs to do. He asks Jelena, “And if I stay on the path I’m on and intentionally go out and start a war, how much more would I cause to be destroyed?” It was nice to see Thor was human after all. He let his barriers down, let out his emotions, his doubts, to Jelena. He reached out, looking for her support, for her input on what he should do. Jelena broaches a plan, and he agrees although he is hesitant to involve Jelena. He wants to keep her safe from those out for him, but Jelena doesn’t care. She wants to help him in any way she can, no matter the danger.
I liked this episode in the Sky Full of Stars series, reading it quickly within a day. It was quite the page turner. I will continue reading more of the crew’s adventures as long as Lindsay writes them.
I was given a free ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
May 21, 2017
A bit of the shine has worn off brand new freighter captain Jelena Marchenko in book 3 of the Sky Full of Stars series. She has faced corporate enforcers, space battles, government restitution demands, and planetary civil war. Jelena hasn't quite given up her dream of somehow making a name for herself and catching the attention of the Starseer community, but in the meantime her crew runs freight in the relatively lawless border worlds, attempting to keep a low profile from the Alliance after their previous escapades. Likewise, Thorian hasn't given up on his desire to fulfill his father's wishes and rebuild the empire, but he meets with less than enthusiastic support from former imperial forces who believe that he is too young and inexperienced to lead.
Jelena and Co. are in between jobs when they are contacted by Jelena's mother and step-father and given the option to assist an old family acquaintance, Abelardus, in a search for a lost Starseer relic. Accompanying Abelardus on the mission are a Starseer archeologist, Brody, and Zhou, Jelena's one time almost boyfriend, who is on break from university. It quickly becomes apparent that there is much more to the hunt for the relic than Jelena and her crew have been told and multiple parties would like to harness the power of the relic for themselves, including Brody, Abelardus, Thorian. In addition, the Starseer government, will stop at nothing to prevent Jelena and her crew from getting to the relic first. With her crew in deadly peril in an asteroid belt on the far reaches of the galaxy, Jelena will have to decide where her loyalties lie and whether she can persuade Thorian to alter his path to rebuild the empire.
I really enjoyed this book. It is truly the best in the series so far! The first two books set the stage so that the characters could reach this point. As always there was plenty of action and Jelena and Thorian especially demonstrate a great deal of personal development and maturity. I won't spoil the ending but I am quite excited to see where Jelena and Thorian will to next and what adventures await them!
*ARC received*
Jelena and Co. are in between jobs when they are contacted by Jelena's mother and step-father and given the option to assist an old family acquaintance, Abelardus, in a search for a lost Starseer relic. Accompanying Abelardus on the mission are a Starseer archeologist, Brody, and Zhou, Jelena's one time almost boyfriend, who is on break from university. It quickly becomes apparent that there is much more to the hunt for the relic than Jelena and her crew have been told and multiple parties would like to harness the power of the relic for themselves, including Brody, Abelardus, Thorian. In addition, the Starseer government, will stop at nothing to prevent Jelena and her crew from getting to the relic first. With her crew in deadly peril in an asteroid belt on the far reaches of the galaxy, Jelena will have to decide where her loyalties lie and whether she can persuade Thorian to alter his path to rebuild the empire.
I really enjoyed this book. It is truly the best in the series so far! The first two books set the stage so that the characters could reach this point. As always there was plenty of action and Jelena and Thorian especially demonstrate a great deal of personal development and maturity. I won't spoil the ending but I am quite excited to see where Jelena and Thorian will to next and what adventures await them!
*ARC received*
May 21, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Despite trying her hardest you know Jelena is going to find herself in trouble in her latest adventure. In Stolen Legacy we get to get to catch up with an old 'friend' (not sure you can really class him as a friend, certainly not in Leonidas' mind anyway), as well see the ever-expanding gang - nice to see the new doctor settling in. I really liked this book, we really start to see Jelena's growth, and how she's starting to think her actions through more than previous. I love the interactions between Jelena and Thor, and how despite Jelena's growth as a person, she can still threaten Thor with glitter, and Thor begins to let Jelena see the real him.
I think this is the first time I have seen Jelena truly begin to question Thor and his ambition to bring back the Empire, despite all the potential cost, and really starts to question Thor. Sure she's let him know about her opinion before but this time she's really questioning whether there is any hope for him, and any potential romantic feelings they may share (which she continues to deny). Despite the situation they find themselves in, and the final outcome, I'm really glad it happens as I think it is the true turning point for Thor and I think it'll be interesting to see what happens.
Without any spoilers - I absolutely love the end and the plan that is put in place, as well as a certain situation that arises (I may have shouted aloud in joy when it happened!) I can't wait to see what becomes of our little team next: what new ways Jelena can discover to get them into trouble, whether Jelena will ever get any closer to paying off her debt without adding more, and how things develop in the Thor department.
Looking forward to the next installment of the Sky Full of Stars series!
Despite trying her hardest you know Jelena is going to find herself in trouble in her latest adventure. In Stolen Legacy we get to get to catch up with an old 'friend' (not sure you can really class him as a friend, certainly not in Leonidas' mind anyway), as well see the ever-expanding gang - nice to see the new doctor settling in. I really liked this book, we really start to see Jelena's growth, and how she's starting to think her actions through more than previous. I love the interactions between Jelena and Thor, and how despite Jelena's growth as a person, she can still threaten Thor with glitter, and Thor begins to let Jelena see the real him.
I think this is the first time I have seen Jelena truly begin to question Thor and his ambition to bring back the Empire, despite all the potential cost, and really starts to question Thor. Sure she's let him know about her opinion before but this time she's really questioning whether there is any hope for him, and any potential romantic feelings they may share (which she continues to deny). Despite the situation they find themselves in, and the final outcome, I'm really glad it happens as I think it is the true turning point for Thor and I think it'll be interesting to see what happens.
Without any spoilers - I absolutely love the end and the plan that is put in place, as well as a certain situation that arises (I may have shouted aloud in joy when it happened!) I can't wait to see what becomes of our little team next: what new ways Jelena can discover to get them into trouble, whether Jelena will ever get any closer to paying off her debt without adding more, and how things develop in the Thor department.
Looking forward to the next installment of the Sky Full of Stars series!
April 26, 2018
I told you guys I was obsessed. Thankfully this is as far as Buroker has written in this series (thankfully because there are OTHER books on my TBR list that I’ve been neglecting while I rocketed off with Jelena and her crew).
Usually I tire of a series after the first book or two but Book 3 was just as good as the first two books. Note: this is a series not a trilogy so I expect we will get more adventures from Jelena, Thor, Erick and everyone else on her ship.
In this adventure, the crew finds themselves shipping Starseers on an archaeological expedition to a far off asteroid. The two Starseers and science officer (Jelena’s sort of ex-boyfriend) are not very open about their motives behind this trip and it soon becomes apparent that at least one of them has nefarious intentions.
What follows next is a fun, suspense filled tale of pirates, evil and good Starseers, a lost alien civilization, and so much more. In addition to all the adventure, Thor’s struggles with his need to fulfill his father’s wishes and do the right thing continue as does Jelena’s growing feelings for him (despite Joe, the scientist ex-boyfriend who is still in love with her, being on board). A lot happens in this little book and the pace is so fast, the reader is pulled right into Jelena’s world!
As a footnote: I’ve been reading this series on the Audible audiobook versions and the narrator (Emily Woo Zeller) is absolutely outstanding. If you like audiobooks, this is also one of the better performances I’ve found for a book series.
One of the reasons I love this series is that Lindsay Buroker is a masterful artist at painting an entirely new futuristic universe. I’m also a trekkie and grew up on the original Star Wars so … if that sounds like you, check this series out. To be honest, it’s the first book series that’s engaged me as much as TNG and Luke, Hans, and Leia!
Usually I tire of a series after the first book or two but Book 3 was just as good as the first two books. Note: this is a series not a trilogy so I expect we will get more adventures from Jelena, Thor, Erick and everyone else on her ship.
In this adventure, the crew finds themselves shipping Starseers on an archaeological expedition to a far off asteroid. The two Starseers and science officer (Jelena’s sort of ex-boyfriend) are not very open about their motives behind this trip and it soon becomes apparent that at least one of them has nefarious intentions.
What follows next is a fun, suspense filled tale of pirates, evil and good Starseers, a lost alien civilization, and so much more. In addition to all the adventure, Thor’s struggles with his need to fulfill his father’s wishes and do the right thing continue as does Jelena’s growing feelings for him (despite Joe, the scientist ex-boyfriend who is still in love with her, being on board). A lot happens in this little book and the pace is so fast, the reader is pulled right into Jelena’s world!
As a footnote: I’ve been reading this series on the Audible audiobook versions and the narrator (Emily Woo Zeller) is absolutely outstanding. If you like audiobooks, this is also one of the better performances I’ve found for a book series.
One of the reasons I love this series is that Lindsay Buroker is a masterful artist at painting an entirely new futuristic universe. I’m also a trekkie and grew up on the original Star Wars so … if that sounds like you, check this series out. To be honest, it’s the first book series that’s engaged me as much as TNG and Luke, Hans, and Leia!
May 24, 2017
I love how consistently fun these books are, but it's around this book that I began to wonder if there was going to be an overarching goal or if it would be a series of self-contained adventures and a slow burn romance. Well, it turns out this book may enlighten the reader as to what those future goals just might be.
Of course, this was another fun adventure with a little more character introspection than its preceding books. Overall, the books (so far) have all been self-contained, single story adventures tied together by its characters and universe, but I felt this book has begun the process of laying out a clearer direction the story itself may move in. If I'm going to complain about anything it would be the lack of Abelardus and Young-Hee character time.
Now, one of my biggest remaining questions is, will a space chef make an appearance anytime soon?
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Of course, this was another fun adventure with a little more character introspection than its preceding books. Overall, the books (so far) have all been self-contained, single story adventures tied together by its characters and universe, but I felt this book has begun the process of laying out a clearer direction the story itself may move in. If I'm going to complain about anything it would be the lack of Abelardus and Young-Hee character time.
Now, one of my biggest remaining questions is, will a space chef make an appearance anytime soon?
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2017
Well, I just finished reading Stolen Legacy, and unlike another person's review, I have to say it was wonderfully satisfying. I usually read a book in one or two sittings, but this style of writing I can take in smaller doses. One of the reasons is that while each installment has some resolution, I know from experience that Lindsay usually leaves some ongoing situations and relationships such as Thor's and Jelena's needing further resolution to be satisfying. What keeps me reading is the quirky, juvenile banter the characters engage in during stressful times, and Jelena's tendency to be moved more by her compassionate nature than by logic which always gets her into trouble. Mostly I liked the fortitude of Jelena's ideals and of her trust that Thor is a "good" man even though she constantly questions his ruthless pursuit of a goal she can't support. There were hints all through the books that Thor struggled to be that good man, and that he felt the same for Jelena even though he knew she didn't support his goals. So there was a lot of good tension that needed a bit of resolution, which this third book gave. When I finished it, my first thought was that the series is worth purchasing,not just borrowing, as I will want to read them again and again, even though I read lots of new books each week. Thanks Lindsay, you did a great job!
August 17, 2017
After a couple of missions got perhaps a little out of hand, Jelena Marchenko, freight captain, star-seer & animal-speaker, is determined to keep to the straight and narrow and act responsibly. Even if that is a bit boring.
So when her parents let her know about a job offer to take a couple of starseers (including an old family friend) on a treasure-hunting trip, she leaps on the chance. But when she is attacked by other starseers shortly thereafter, she starts to wonder if this was really such a great idea after all, and if perhaps she's somehow ended up on the 'wrong' side.
Meanwhile, her step-dad Leonidas is evidently trying his hand at matchmaking, adding Jelena's sort-of-ex-boyfriend to the crew.
I really enjoyed this entry in the series. Things are starting to pick up and move into the next gear, and there are some really powerful moments. The romance also kicks up a notch, with Jelena and Thor both starting to acknowledge their feelings for each other.
Jelena is also starting to grow up; she didn't seem to jump in head-first as often in this story.
I'm giving this one 4.5 stars, but rounding up to 5 stars for Good reads because I want people to find this series. It's an easy one to recommend.
So when her parents let her know about a job offer to take a couple of starseers (including an old family friend) on a treasure-hunting trip, she leaps on the chance. But when she is attacked by other starseers shortly thereafter, she starts to wonder if this was really such a great idea after all, and if perhaps she's somehow ended up on the 'wrong' side.
Meanwhile, her step-dad Leonidas is evidently trying his hand at matchmaking, adding Jelena's sort-of-ex-boyfriend to the crew.
I really enjoyed this entry in the series. Things are starting to pick up and move into the next gear, and there are some really powerful moments. The romance also kicks up a notch, with Jelena and Thor both starting to acknowledge their feelings for each other.
Jelena is also starting to grow up; she didn't seem to jump in head-first as often in this story.
I'm giving this one 4.5 stars, but rounding up to 5 stars for Good reads because I want people to find this series. It's an easy one to recommend.
August 11, 2017
3rd book in the Sky Full of Stars Series. Jelena and crew agree to transport starseers Abelardus (from the Fallen Empire series) and Brody to an asteroid field in order for them to find something that Brody doesn't want to discuss. Joining them in their journey is Zhou, selected by Jelena's stepfather Leonidas , in hopes that she'll rekindle her relationship with him rather than pursuing a relationship with Thor.
Jelena hopes this journey will help improve her relationship with the rest of the starseers who basically do not talk with her at all. Of course there are issues with this trip. Brody is looking for a secret ancient starseer artifact, and Abelardus wants the artifact for himself and his children (hoping to raise their standing in starseer society. There are other starseers and pirates after the artifact as well, and an unknown lifeform on the asteroid is seeking to destroy them all.
The story had a decent pace to it, I liked the nice character development of Thor as well. I'm a bit tired or arrogant starseers though - why would anyone want to be accepted by them?
Jelena hopes this journey will help improve her relationship with the rest of the starseers who basically do not talk with her at all. Of course there are issues with this trip. Brody is looking for a secret ancient starseer artifact, and Abelardus wants the artifact for himself and his children (hoping to raise their standing in starseer society. There are other starseers and pirates after the artifact as well, and an unknown lifeform on the asteroid is seeking to destroy them all.
The story had a decent pace to it, I liked the nice character development of Thor as well. I'm a bit tired or arrogant starseers though - why would anyone want to be accepted by them?
November 11, 2020
Best of the trilogy
This final book in the trilogy made it worth the eye-rolling, embarrassing situations Jelena gets herself into in the first 2 books. In this story we see much more of the similarities between Jelena and her mother, Alisa, the original I-don't-listen-to-anyone (unless we are being chased by pirates, Starseers, other enemies) Captain Marchenko. The appearance, arrogance, obsessiveness and a few lude comments from Abelardus do help make this story more like the Fallen Empire series. But the best part is that Jelena is maturing, despite the glitter and unicorns, and has finally found what she is good at. See now can rely on others for advice and knows who she wants on her crew. We find out why this series is called Sky Full of Stars but not until the very end. I would like to see more from this series now that there are goals in mind for the characters. As a bigger fan of the Fallen Empire series, I would like to see more of the characters come back. Leonidas helping Jelena with biology slides? These small snippets of life on the Nomad are not enough! Maybe a look at Starseer school life with Stan.
This final book in the trilogy made it worth the eye-rolling, embarrassing situations Jelena gets herself into in the first 2 books. In this story we see much more of the similarities between Jelena and her mother, Alisa, the original I-don't-listen-to-anyone (unless we are being chased by pirates, Starseers, other enemies) Captain Marchenko. The appearance, arrogance, obsessiveness and a few lude comments from Abelardus do help make this story more like the Fallen Empire series. But the best part is that Jelena is maturing, despite the glitter and unicorns, and has finally found what she is good at. See now can rely on others for advice and knows who she wants on her crew. We find out why this series is called Sky Full of Stars but not until the very end. I would like to see more from this series now that there are goals in mind for the characters. As a bigger fan of the Fallen Empire series, I would like to see more of the characters come back. Leonidas helping Jelena with biology slides? These small snippets of life on the Nomad are not enough! Maybe a look at Starseer school life with Stan.
May 23, 2017
If you love Lindsay, you'll love this series… if you haven't read Lindsay. Start now.
I have been loving this series. It's a lot of fun. Lindsay always makes me laugh and this book was no exception.
I would recommend reading Fallen Empire first, it's not a need but I believe it adds to these characters.
I love how the characters relate/ mock each other and in general act like real humans.
I love how Lindsay lets things happen naturally and doesn't always have the worst/ more infuriating happen like a bad sitcom.
Guys seriously this author is amazing. Check out her Emperors Edge series if you haven't yet.
Spoilers ahead…
…
I can't wait for the next book in this series. This book dealt so well with a major concern about Thorians path being completely out of alignment with Jelena's. And now I can't wait to see where Lindsay takes it. She wrapped this book up so me who needs a good ending is happy but I'm still counting down until I can get my hands on the next book.
I have been loving this series. It's a lot of fun. Lindsay always makes me laugh and this book was no exception.
I would recommend reading Fallen Empire first, it's not a need but I believe it adds to these characters.
I love how the characters relate/ mock each other and in general act like real humans.
I love how Lindsay lets things happen naturally and doesn't always have the worst/ more infuriating happen like a bad sitcom.
Guys seriously this author is amazing. Check out her Emperors Edge series if you haven't yet.
Spoilers ahead…
…
I can't wait for the next book in this series. This book dealt so well with a major concern about Thorians path being completely out of alignment with Jelena's. And now I can't wait to see where Lindsay takes it. She wrapped this book up so me who needs a good ending is happy but I'm still counting down until I can get my hands on the next book.
May 27, 2017
Another adventure in the books for Jelena and company. This time our old friend Abelardus contracts the Snapper out, through her parents, for a secretive artifact mission. He brings along Brody the douchebag Starseer and Zhou the biologist. they are to explore an asteroid in the hopes of finding a Kirian artifact.
It was easy going at first but then it becomes evident that one of the crew members is actually an enemy plus officials from the Starseer government and pirates are wanting this artifact as well. Now it's become a race to see who will get this powerful instrument first and what everyone's true motive is for wanting to obtain it.
Tensions are high with this crew and we get to see a lot of Thor's protective side for Jelena. We also get a deeper glimpse into understanding the inner conflict Thor has with himself about what path he wants/should to take to honor his father.
Overall it was another great addition and I definitely cannot wait for the next installment.
***I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review***
It was easy going at first but then it becomes evident that one of the crew members is actually an enemy plus officials from the Starseer government and pirates are wanting this artifact as well. Now it's become a race to see who will get this powerful instrument first and what everyone's true motive is for wanting to obtain it.
Tensions are high with this crew and we get to see a lot of Thor's protective side for Jelena. We also get a deeper glimpse into understanding the inner conflict Thor has with himself about what path he wants/should to take to honor his father.
Overall it was another great addition and I definitely cannot wait for the next installment.
***I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review***
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