What do you think?
Rate this book
A mighty empire…a lowly slave…a galaxy to save. Will a hero rise? Nova chronicles the early years of the Aurora Galaxy after the great war between two immortal races known as the Malakians and the Torians. The despot, Zari Treville, is leading the Torians on a campaign to rule the galaxy, but Supreme Chancellor Ell Yon, leader of the Malakians, stands in his way. Both races wield technology far beyond anything the human race has ever seen. Young Daeson Starlore is born of royal blood on the planet of Jypton where the Rayleans (the Drudge class) serve the ruling classes of Jyptonians (the Colloquial and the Elite classes). As a young man Daeson is living his dream piloting his Starcraft at the academy and is on track to graduate at the top of his class. A chance encounter with a lowly Starcraft mechanic changes everything and the life and world Daeson once thought he knew changes forever. Desperate for the truth, Daeson embarks on a galactic journey that will either kill him or thrust him into a life of terrifying adventure. Time is short…will he survive…will he rise?
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2019
28 people are currently reading
909 people want to read
About the author
Chuck Black
33 books753 followersChuck Black first wrote Kingdom’s Edge to inspire his children to read the Bible with renewed zeal. This captivating expanded parable led him to write the Old Testament allegories, Kingdom’s Dawn, Kingdom’s Hope, Kingdom’s Call, and Kingdom’s Quest. Chuck's currents works include the Knights of Arrethtrae series, Call to Arms, and his series in progress, Wars of the Realm.
Chuck is a former F-16 fighter pilot and currently works as an engineer for a firm designing plastic consumer products and has coinvented eleven patented construction products now being sold internationally. He has a degree in electrical and electronic engineering and served eight years in the United States Air Force. Chuck and his wife have six children and live in North Dakota.
It is Chuck’s desire to serve the Lord through his work and to inspire people of all ages to study the scriptures in order to discover the hope and love of a truly majestic King and His Son.
Chuck is a former F-16 fighter pilot and currently works as an engineer for a firm designing plastic consumer products and has coinvented eleven patented construction products now being sold internationally. He has a degree in electrical and electronic engineering and served eight years in the United States Air Force. Chuck and his wife have six children and live in North Dakota.
It is Chuck’s desire to serve the Lord through his work and to inspire people of all ages to study the scriptures in order to discover the hope and love of a truly majestic King and His Son.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
March 25, 2025
"So dream your dreams and lift your eyes
From hill and vale to lofty skies,
And fly beyond the stars of old
And walk the paths of legends bold."
✏️ Review ✏️ [reread: March 2025]
Well, Nova was even more enjoyable upon reread! I loved all the adventure and conflicts. I still think the romance could have taken a bit longer to progress but, hey, it's still an enjoyable story.
✏️ Review ✏️ [August 2024]
A fine blend of fantasy and sci-fi, Nova features an exhilarating adventure of galactic proportions. This story provided me with lots of excitement and enjoyment. Once the action picks up, the plot opens full throttle, leaving in it's wake an enthralled reader (me!) and pure intrigue. The three-tiered conflict greatly enhances the story's action and suspense: man vs. man (Daeson vs. Linden; Jypton vs. Raylean); man vs. himself (Daeson vs. his inner struggles; Raviel vs. her inner emotions and loyalties); and man vs. a higher power (Daeson vs. Sovereign Ell Yon) — all three conflict levels are effectively employed in the book.
The characters... uh, were okay. There were many times throughout the book that I hoped the MCs would experience deeper development; it would have made them feel more connected with the reader... but that never came. However, since Nova is the first book in a series, I'm sure deeper development will arrive forthwith (I'm starting to talk like Rivet! 😄) Just one more thing about the characters — I felt like the romance progressed a bit too quickly to be realistic. I would have liked to have seen the relationship between the MMC and the FMC take longer to ignite. This would've made it more realistic and would've added more heart to the plot.
Great story nonetheless! Through the effective use of metaphors, Chuck Black artfully infuses Nova with biblical allegories. These allegories became quite apparent towards the end of the book. Oh, and the plot twists and surprises — there are a lot of those.
I definitely need to buy Flight, the second book in the Starlore Legacy, because the ending of Nova left me hanging. Like, no!... Ok. Enough of my review. You're probably already reading this book yourself. Just don't run into any AI bots.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The plot with its action and many surprises.
• The space world setting (I love astronomy so I was absolutely thrilled to read about new [although fantastical] space concepts and destinations).
• The multi-level conflict — greatly enhances the suspense and overall story.
• The biblical allegory which is portrayed throughout the book.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The absence of deeper character development.
• The unrealistically quick romance.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes!*
— To whom? To those who enjoy action-adventure stories or sci-fi infused with biblical allegory and also a romance subplot.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 4/5
— 📝 Writing: 3.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• Mild action-adventure violence including some scenes of fighting and brief peril.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• There is a brief conversation about simulated birthing and there's a scene of fortune telling. These subjects make this book most suited for teens and above.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
•"A journey of a thousand miles doesn't begin with one step," her father said. "It begins with a dream." (p. 7)
•"You're a strange girl with strange beliefs, Raviel Arko."... She took a deep breath and nodded. "Perhaps, but it is the truth that makes me so." (p. 84)
•"Human emotions are a curious thing," Rivet said.... "It seems you often say that which you shouldn't, and you do not say that which you should." (p. 246)
From hill and vale to lofty skies,
And fly beyond the stars of old
And walk the paths of legends bold."
✏️ Review ✏️ [reread: March 2025]
Well, Nova was even more enjoyable upon reread! I loved all the adventure and conflicts. I still think the romance could have taken a bit longer to progress but, hey, it's still an enjoyable story.
✏️ Review ✏️ [August 2024]
A fine blend of fantasy and sci-fi, Nova features an exhilarating adventure of galactic proportions. This story provided me with lots of excitement and enjoyment. Once the action picks up, the plot opens full throttle, leaving in it's wake an enthralled reader (me!) and pure intrigue. The three-tiered conflict greatly enhances the story's action and suspense: man vs. man (Daeson vs. Linden; Jypton vs. Raylean); man vs. himself (Daeson vs. his inner struggles; Raviel vs. her inner emotions and loyalties); and man vs. a higher power (Daeson vs. Sovereign Ell Yon) — all three conflict levels are effectively employed in the book.
The characters... uh, were okay. There were many times throughout the book that I hoped the MCs would experience deeper development; it would have made them feel more connected with the reader... but that never came. However, since Nova is the first book in a series, I'm sure deeper development will arrive forthwith (I'm starting to talk like Rivet! 😄) Just one more thing about the characters — I felt like the romance progressed a bit too quickly to be realistic. I would have liked to have seen the relationship between the MMC and the FMC take longer to ignite. This would've made it more realistic and would've added more heart to the plot.
Great story nonetheless! Through the effective use of metaphors, Chuck Black artfully infuses Nova with biblical allegories. These allegories became quite apparent towards the end of the book. Oh, and the plot twists and surprises — there are a lot of those.
I definitely need to buy Flight, the second book in the Starlore Legacy, because the ending of Nova left me hanging. Like, no!... Ok. Enough of my review. You're probably already reading this book yourself. Just don't run into any AI bots.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The plot with its action and many surprises.
• The space world setting (I love astronomy so I was absolutely thrilled to read about new [although fantastical] space concepts and destinations).
• The multi-level conflict — greatly enhances the suspense and overall story.
• The biblical allegory which is portrayed throughout the book.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The absence of deeper character development.
• The unrealistically quick romance.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes!*
— To whom? To those who enjoy action-adventure stories or sci-fi infused with biblical allegory and also a romance subplot.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 4/5
— 📝 Writing: 3.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• Mild action-adventure violence including some scenes of fighting and brief peril.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• There is a brief conversation about simulated birthing and there's a scene of fortune telling. These subjects make this book most suited for teens and above.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
•"A journey of a thousand miles doesn't begin with one step," her father said. "It begins with a dream." (p. 7)
•"You're a strange girl with strange beliefs, Raviel Arko."... She took a deep breath and nodded. "Perhaps, but it is the truth that makes me so." (p. 84)
•"Human emotions are a curious thing," Rivet said.... "It seems you often say that which you shouldn't, and you do not say that which you should." (p. 246)
February 6, 2024
I am speechless!! This books was NEXT level amazing!!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥I am starting the next one today! 💯🔥
RTC
RTC
September 25, 2024
2020 REVIEW:
4 stars. It hurts my heart to give Chuck Black anything less than 5 stars but after comparing my end feelings of this book to most of his previous ones, I have to. Don't get me wrong, I still really really enjoyed Nova and so look forward to episode 2, but yeah, not quite as amazing as WotR in my opinion. I still highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys sci-fi! It's like a space version of the Biblical story of Moses, which is cool.
~~~~~~~~~~
2024 REVIEW:
I loved this even more than the first time I read it. Such great characters! 5 stars!!
4 stars. It hurts my heart to give Chuck Black anything less than 5 stars but after comparing my end feelings of this book to most of his previous ones, I have to. Don't get me wrong, I still really really enjoyed Nova and so look forward to episode 2, but yeah, not quite as amazing as WotR in my opinion. I still highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys sci-fi! It's like a space version of the Biblical story of Moses, which is cool.
~~~~~~~~~~
2024 REVIEW:
I loved this even more than the first time I read it. Such great characters! 5 stars!!
July 9, 2024
Will not disappoint!!!!!!!
July 1, 2021
"Never before had the story of the ancients felt so real to her. Her world and the galaxy itself seemed different with each passing year, leaving her to contemplate the way the fabric of fantasy and pretend was slowly melting into the reality of her future... a future that she felt was somehow connected to the stories of her forefathers." ~Chuck Black, page 250-251
This. Book. Was. AWESOME!!! Nuff said. ;)
Review to come!!
This. Book. Was. AWESOME!!! Nuff said. ;)
Review to come!!
August 18, 2024
I'm very picky about Christian Fiction, so I wasn't sure what to expect from this. Also, while I was expecting an allegory of sorts, I wasn't expecting the allegory I got. Anyway, I actually did enjoy it. The plot is interesting, and I like the characters.
The romance, however, felt very rushed. Especially at the beginning. Like, they barely know each other, and then, next thing you know, he's telling her these deep secrets.
Anyway, I'm intrigued enough that I'll prob continue the series at some point.
October 21, 2023
I read this book, expecting to be disappointed, I’ll be completely honest. I’ve read some of this author’s other works and where they were fine, they weren’t what I was looking for. I liked them for the Christianity, faith or allegories, but I had found I didn’t like the way he wrote it. When I heard of this book, series actually, I was intrigued because it looked like Star Wars, and I knew he was a Christian author. I thought “Star Wars, but Christian.” And I really liked that idea. And so I got them for my brother for Christmas last year, hoping he would enjoy them…and wanting to read them for myself too
This year once he started reading them and liking them, I knew I wanted to try it too. And so I picked up Nova for my readathon I was doing for the month of October. I read the prologue and was like “Oh no. I probably won’t like this.” And then I read chapter one. And I didn’t look back.
It's definitely my favorite out of Chuck Black’s books, and am looking forward to finishing the series.
I found the characters easy to connect to, and care for. Real, honest, and fun. There were moments I was mad at the characters, but thats in every book (it's almost impossible to avoid)
The plot was super interesting, and I like how it is like the story of Moses in the Bible. I really liked finding the similarities, and also seeing Star Wars in there too.
The main two characters, Daeson and Raviel were great, and I liked them both equally, which is surprising. Usually I like the main guys better, but she was a really good, well done character with a lot of spunk and her own voice. Daeson wasn’t the typical guy I like, but he grew on me, and he had a lot of hidden good qualities. And I enjoyed their relationship and watching it grow.
Every character was well written, and made you like them, or dislike them, for the reasons the author wanted. I was very impressed with it.
All in all, I could talk about this book for awhile, but let me just say, it was a really good, gripping, impactful story
This year once he started reading them and liking them, I knew I wanted to try it too. And so I picked up Nova for my readathon I was doing for the month of October. I read the prologue and was like “Oh no. I probably won’t like this.” And then I read chapter one. And I didn’t look back.
It's definitely my favorite out of Chuck Black’s books, and am looking forward to finishing the series.
I found the characters easy to connect to, and care for. Real, honest, and fun. There were moments I was mad at the characters, but thats in every book (it's almost impossible to avoid)
The plot was super interesting, and I like how it is like the story of Moses in the Bible. I really liked finding the similarities, and also seeing Star Wars in there too.
The main two characters, Daeson and Raviel were great, and I liked them both equally, which is surprising. Usually I like the main guys better, but she was a really good, well done character with a lot of spunk and her own voice. Daeson wasn’t the typical guy I like, but he grew on me, and he had a lot of hidden good qualities. And I enjoyed their relationship and watching it grow.
Every character was well written, and made you like them, or dislike them, for the reasons the author wanted. I was very impressed with it.
All in all, I could talk about this book for awhile, but let me just say, it was a really good, gripping, impactful story
April 15, 2024
So my boyfriend, got me this book because I have been wanting to read it for a while and all I have to say about this book is wow! It is so awesome and just so cool.👌
August 26, 2023
4⭐️
What an exciting, action-packed Christian Sci-Fi!
I really enjoyed this story of Daeson who is an elite, jock-type young man eager for his promising future as a pilot. He has an encounter with the intriguing Raviel who is far below his station and someone that society says he should not give a second glance to, but he does.
Raviel reciprocates his interest, but is she who she claims to be? In fact, other secrets come to light revealing more people are keeping their identities undercover than anyone could have guessed.
All of this while there is a quiet animosity brewing between different groups of people and differing beliefs which is bound to explode at any moment.
There are definitely parallels between this story and the real life account of Moses and I can’t wait to get to the next one!
**the audiobook has a lot of theatrical elements to it (background sounds, different voices etc….) as I know that can be a hit or miss aspect for some people
What an exciting, action-packed Christian Sci-Fi!
I really enjoyed this story of Daeson who is an elite, jock-type young man eager for his promising future as a pilot. He has an encounter with the intriguing Raviel who is far below his station and someone that society says he should not give a second glance to, but he does.
Raviel reciprocates his interest, but is she who she claims to be? In fact, other secrets come to light revealing more people are keeping their identities undercover than anyone could have guessed.
All of this while there is a quiet animosity brewing between different groups of people and differing beliefs which is bound to explode at any moment.
There are definitely parallels between this story and the real life account of Moses and I can’t wait to get to the next one!
**the audiobook has a lot of theatrical elements to it (background sounds, different voices etc….) as I know that can be a hit or miss aspect for some people
May 4, 2025
Giving this a 4.5 star rating. This was giving Moses and a hint of Esther with a lot of sci-fi. I truly enjoyed Rivial and Daeson. I loved the world and tech aspects I was intrigued from beginning to end but I was 100% confused until the 45-50% mark. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
September 5, 2023
UPDATE: Re-reading this series for the release of Merchant!! Even the second time through, I still loved the plot and characters. 💙
There are many ways I can tell I like a book.
One of the most prominent is losing sleep to stay up till I finish the entire book.
Yeah... guilty.
Nova sounded so interesting, and I have to say I am not disappointed. At all. Like, after I finished it, I ordered Flight, Lore, and Oath all in one shot. Chuck Black puts such an interesting twist on biblical accounts that I had such a fun time catching the similarities while becoming attached to the characters. Daeson is the best MC and I had to say, I kinda did like a certain someone that turned out to be a certain someone that I no longer like. XD And Raviel. Man, she's just cool. I can't wait till this whole series is on my shelf!
There are many ways I can tell I like a book.
One of the most prominent is losing sleep to stay up till I finish the entire book.
Yeah... guilty.
Nova sounded so interesting, and I have to say I am not disappointed. At all. Like, after I finished it, I ordered Flight, Lore, and Oath all in one shot. Chuck Black puts such an interesting twist on biblical accounts that I had such a fun time catching the similarities while becoming attached to the characters. Daeson is the best MC and I had to say, I kinda did like a certain someone that turned out to be a certain someone that I no longer like. XD And Raviel. Man, she's just cool. I can't wait till this whole series is on my shelf!
December 31, 2021
This was fun! It took me a bit to get into, and didn't immediately capture my attention. However, it has been a while since I read middlegrade.
But once I got into it, I enjoyed the story, characters, and world building. (I might read book 2 simply because of the promise of floating islands.) The history was fascinating as was the variety of planets. As with all of Chuck Black's, it was well thought out.
Though it was an entirely different setting and plot, this reminded me strongly of Chuck Black's Kingdom series.
Overall, enjoyed it as a middle grade novel and will read the others in the series. Though tragedy is dealt with and there are tense situations, there are no content warnings to speak of. Adults can enjoy it, but so could an eight-year-old.
But once I got into it, I enjoyed the story, characters, and world building. (I might read book 2 simply because of the promise of floating islands.) The history was fascinating as was the variety of planets. As with all of Chuck Black's, it was well thought out.
Though it was an entirely different setting and plot, this reminded me strongly of Chuck Black's Kingdom series.
Overall, enjoyed it as a middle grade novel and will read the others in the series. Though tragedy is dealt with and there are tense situations, there are no content warnings to speak of. Adults can enjoy it, but so could an eight-year-old.
April 14, 2020
I’m so excited Chuck Black is releasing a new series! Nova didn’t disappoint, and I’m looking forward to continuing the characters’ journeys.
September 30, 2024
Story Enjoyment Rating 8/10 Christian Faith Rating 3/3
Nova, the first instalment in Chuck Black’s “The Starlore Legacy” series, blends science fiction adventure and Christian allegory. This “space opera” presents a reimagining of the Moses story, transporting familiar themes of faith, societal injustice, and self-discovery to a futuristic interstellar setting.
The story follows Daeson, a cadet training to be a space pilot in an empire divided by a rigid class system. Daeson, alongside his cousin who is heir to the throne, enjoys a life of privilege. However, they rebel against this, venturing into the impoverished Drudge Town, a place inhabited by a race forced into servitude. This experience, and his meeting with a Drudge mechanic, becomes a catalyst for Daeson’s personal growth, leading him to question his beliefs and grapple with the stark realities of his society.
I found the plot and characters in Nova to be more intricate and well-developed compared to Black’s other book, “Kingdom’s Dawn”. The narrative blends action and adventure, but also makes space for an unexpected romantic subplot.
I highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The voice actors give an immersive performance, bringing the characters to life, and making the technical aspects of the story more dynamic. The addition of background music enhanced my listening experience.
Nova, the first instalment in Chuck Black’s “The Starlore Legacy” series, blends science fiction adventure and Christian allegory. This “space opera” presents a reimagining of the Moses story, transporting familiar themes of faith, societal injustice, and self-discovery to a futuristic interstellar setting.
The story follows Daeson, a cadet training to be a space pilot in an empire divided by a rigid class system. Daeson, alongside his cousin who is heir to the throne, enjoys a life of privilege. However, they rebel against this, venturing into the impoverished Drudge Town, a place inhabited by a race forced into servitude. This experience, and his meeting with a Drudge mechanic, becomes a catalyst for Daeson’s personal growth, leading him to question his beliefs and grapple with the stark realities of his society.
I found the plot and characters in Nova to be more intricate and well-developed compared to Black’s other book, “Kingdom’s Dawn”. The narrative blends action and adventure, but also makes space for an unexpected romantic subplot.
I highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The voice actors give an immersive performance, bringing the characters to life, and making the technical aspects of the story more dynamic. The addition of background music enhanced my listening experience.
December 1, 2023
I haven't read Chuck Black in probably 10 years but I have recommended his books to several people since then. I didn't realize he was still writing books until someone shared about it on IG! I quickly got the first two in the series (actually he sent them to me for free), and I am not disappointed! He's just as good of a writer as I remember!
And the best part? We finally have some clean, well thought out, Christian, Sci-fi! Think Star Wars meets biblical allegory. There is a lot of description of the technology happening in here but it wasn't too boring. And the schematics throughout were really neat!
I'm really enjoying the love story and the fact that it's so sweet without so much as a kiss. Maybe once he thinks about how beautiful she is. But that hand scene :0
Highly recommend if you like sci-fi!
Content: 0/5 really nothing to tell except for one dance and a brushing of hands.
And the best part? We finally have some clean, well thought out, Christian, Sci-fi! Think Star Wars meets biblical allegory. There is a lot of description of the technology happening in here but it wasn't too boring. And the schematics throughout were really neat!
I'm really enjoying the love story and the fact that it's so sweet without so much as a kiss. Maybe once he thinks about how beautiful she is. But that hand scene :0
Highly recommend if you like sci-fi!
Content: 0/5 really nothing to tell except for one dance and a brushing of hands.
September 5, 2023
This book didn't live up to my high expectations. I've loved every Chuck Black book I've read so far and expected the same from this book. But it fell short in my opinion.
I felt the world building bogged the story down sometimes and the characters lacked personal motivation for the roles they played in the story. I loved Daesen and Raviel... but also found them annoying at times. Maybe this is just me?
I don't mean to sound critical in the least! Because I did still enjoy this story and that ending definitely helped me love the book more. (I love Rivet!!!!) All I'm saying is that it didn't do to me what Chuck Black's books usually do for me.
I felt the world building bogged the story down sometimes and the characters lacked personal motivation for the roles they played in the story. I loved Daesen and Raviel... but also found them annoying at times. Maybe this is just me?
I don't mean to sound critical in the least! Because I did still enjoy this story and that ending definitely helped me love the book more. (I love Rivet!!!!) All I'm saying is that it didn't do to me what Chuck Black's books usually do for me.
May 25, 2021
Why oh why had I not read Chuck Black’s books sooner!?!? UGHHH I LOVE ITTT!!!! I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! The plot was absolutely MAGNIFICENT!!! I LOVED how it was based off the story of Moses! *chiefs kiss* *Everyone* *points to my fellow booknerds* has to read this book. *shoves it at you* and while you’re at it… read all his other books! My rating is more of a 4.5 because of certain people I didn’t like, like Xandra.. She was so…. ANNOYING and…. strange. And Linden I *shakes head* despised him. And the end I really wanted Deason and Raviel to stay together.. But they went their separate ways. I really hope they reunite and I get to see more of them in the second book, Flight! and a certain someone *points to Deason* was gonna say “I love you.” To Raviel. BUT THEN HE DIDNT. But I bumped it up to 5 stars because of ya know.. *points to Deason and Raviel* All I gotta say is… I need more of Daeson and Raviel!!!!!!
May 5, 2025
Giving this a 4.5 star rating. This was giving Moses and a hint of Esther with a lot of sci-fi. I truly enjoyed Rivial and Daeson. I loved the world and tech aspects I was intrigued from beginning to end but I was 100% confused until the 45-50% mark. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
April 24, 2025
Chuck Black is a mastermind of an author and he does it again with this series! The characters. The world. The themes. The emotions. The allegory. Everything about these books is just so beautiful and heartwarming.
AND IT WILL BREAK YOUR HEART. In the best way possible!
AND IT WILL BREAK YOUR HEART. In the best way possible!
December 30, 2019
I just finished reading Nova last night or well early this morning. I started Nova yesterday, so that should give you a good idea on how good it was. It was nicely paced with an intriguing world built in the future. The other world, technology (I love swords whether they are past, present, or future), and history woven throughout brings the story together. I really liked the feel of authenticity Chuck's different diagrams gave too, my engineering background especially liked it.
The story is a futuristic spin on the story of Moses, as far as I can tell, but still is its own unique story. I loved the fact that he had a smart female secondary character who has the heart of a warrior. (I hope to see more of Raviel’s perspective in the future). The book had a similar relationship between the male main character and the female secondary character seen in the Wars of the Realm Series. Where one knows the truth and the other is in the dark, but they interact in a different way than in that series. Ricket is an entertaining and mysterious character and I look forward to seeing how he is developed. He is an interesting sci-fi spin in the story.
My dad was the winner of one of the pre-release books and it has been sitting here until I came home from medical school for my Christmas break. My family is waiting for the audiobook to come out, though dad tried to convince me to read it to him. No way! It would take me way too long! I am the fastest reader in my family so they usually stick to audiobooks and are waiting expectantly for Spring. We listened to the kingdom series and knights of Arrethtrae (the latter is still my favorite with Lady Carliss the favorite of the favorite out of that list). They are a great set of audiobooks. I look forward to seeing how this series sounds in the audiobook version as well. I have been known to re-listen to his books over and over and over again. Thank you Chuck Black for continuing to write great stories. I look forward to the next book!
The story is a futuristic spin on the story of Moses, as far as I can tell, but still is its own unique story. I loved the fact that he had a smart female secondary character who has the heart of a warrior. (I hope to see more of Raviel’s perspective in the future). The book had a similar relationship between the male main character and the female secondary character seen in the Wars of the Realm Series. Where one knows the truth and the other is in the dark, but they interact in a different way than in that series. Ricket is an entertaining and mysterious character and I look forward to seeing how he is developed. He is an interesting sci-fi spin in the story.
My dad was the winner of one of the pre-release books and it has been sitting here until I came home from medical school for my Christmas break. My family is waiting for the audiobook to come out, though dad tried to convince me to read it to him. No way! It would take me way too long! I am the fastest reader in my family so they usually stick to audiobooks and are waiting expectantly for Spring. We listened to the kingdom series and knights of Arrethtrae (the latter is still my favorite with Lady Carliss the favorite of the favorite out of that list). They are a great set of audiobooks. I look forward to seeing how this series sounds in the audiobook version as well. I have been known to re-listen to his books over and over and over again. Thank you Chuck Black for continuing to write great stories. I look forward to the next book!
June 15, 2024
“Be wary of false beginnings—they will destroy you.”
Moses does Terminator. Good, if well-worn concept. Wanted to like it more. Even given this is young adult fiction, it’s pretty sophomoric. Populist royal slums with plebeians, offending just about everyone. Clunky writing; heavy allegory. Illustrations by Elena Karoumpali.
“Royal blood flows through your veins, but you are not who you think you are. Soon there is coming a day when the facade of your life will be discovered. You are set apart to turn sorrow into joy for many people and joy into sorrow for many more.”
Spoiler: Moses/Messiah. Slow start, world and character building. Needed another proofreading. Non-residential military academy, at least for the royals, who have better things to do than actually train. “Science” is Star Trek level, which is pretty low. Even the juvenile target audience may find it tedious.
“You can’t stop there, Dad!”
I agree. The story doesn’t end; it just stops.
“Well, that went well.” “I think not…”
Moses does Terminator. Good, if well-worn concept. Wanted to like it more. Even given this is young adult fiction, it’s pretty sophomoric. Populist royal slums with plebeians, offending just about everyone. Clunky writing; heavy allegory. Illustrations by Elena Karoumpali.
“Royal blood flows through your veins, but you are not who you think you are. Soon there is coming a day when the facade of your life will be discovered. You are set apart to turn sorrow into joy for many people and joy into sorrow for many more.”
Spoiler: Moses/Messiah. Slow start, world and character building. Needed another proofreading. Non-residential military academy, at least for the royals, who have better things to do than actually train. “Science” is Star Trek level, which is pretty low. Even the juvenile target audience may find it tedious.
“You can’t stop there, Dad!”
I agree. The story doesn’t end; it just stops.
“Well, that went well.” “I think not…”
October 31, 2023
It was very well written but I felt like the ending should have been at a point that was 3/4 the way through the book and they should have saved the last quarter for book 2
January 5, 2024
3.5 stars
While the writing may not be my preference, the characters keep this story alive.
I've read Chuck Black's books since I was a child. (I grew up with his self-published versions of the Kingdom series to give you an idea of how long his books impacted my life.) They're therefore very nostalgic for me so I knew going into this new series as an adult that the writing wouldn't be as professional as I prefer, hence my deduction of a star. He does a lot of telling versus showing, sometimes the pacing moves too fast, and he follows what I call the Blackian outline of every book he's written: a non-believer male protagonist falls for the believing female protagonist who points him to the Christ-like figure, and they end up getting hitched.
However, what can make me, a highly critical reader (yeah, I'll admit that) look past these writing peeves is what Black has always excelled in: good characters. Because his main characters are compelling, I cared for them and kept reading to discover what would happen next. I also appreciated how subtle the biblical allegory was this time around (at least for this first book). And, though a sci-fi, Black does a great job creating his own world and not relying on Star Wars' elements. We also get some dashes of his experience in the AirForce which was cool.
Overall, this was a fun one-time read (hence half a star deduction). I look forward to seeing what happens in the sequel.
While the writing may not be my preference, the characters keep this story alive.
I've read Chuck Black's books since I was a child. (I grew up with his self-published versions of the Kingdom series to give you an idea of how long his books impacted my life.) They're therefore very nostalgic for me so I knew going into this new series as an adult that the writing wouldn't be as professional as I prefer, hence my deduction of a star. He does a lot of telling versus showing, sometimes the pacing moves too fast, and he follows what I call the Blackian outline of every book he's written: a non-believer male protagonist falls for the believing female protagonist who points him to the Christ-like figure, and they end up getting hitched.
However, what can make me, a highly critical reader (yeah, I'll admit that) look past these writing peeves is what Black has always excelled in: good characters. Because his main characters are compelling, I cared for them and kept reading to discover what would happen next. I also appreciated how subtle the biblical allegory was this time around (at least for this first book). And, though a sci-fi, Black does a great job creating his own world and not relying on Star Wars' elements. We also get some dashes of his experience in the AirForce which was cool.
Overall, this was a fun one-time read (hence half a star deduction). I look forward to seeing what happens in the sequel.
September 27, 2024
This one was definitely not my usual genre. But having read the previous books written by this author, I was curious to find out what this one was like.
The storyline was interesting and fairly well written. And I enjoyed the main character's personality and moral strength. (Though a touch unrealistic at times.)
As someone familiar with Scripture, it wasn't difficult to recognize some of the parallels here with accounts from the Bible. Though, these parallels felt more like the author was using the Biblical accounts as a springboard or outline rather than with an intent to instruct or bring understanding. The book was enjoyable as a story, but at least personally, it did not provoke spiritual, moral, or emotional growth. Maybe more will come as the story plays out in future books? (My favorite series by this author is his "Knights of Arrethrae," which has both interesting storylines and strong spiritual growth; both shown and inspired.)
With the author's background in the Air Force, it is not surprising that both the fighting and flying scenes are written with detail.
And there is a definite romance playing out through the story. Interest, attraction, moments of deep connection, relationship, etc. Not inappropriately handled, but very present.
Overall, this was an interesting story, but lacking in inspiration. I'll enjoy the series as a fun read, but probably not one I'll prioritize having on my bookshelf.
The storyline was interesting and fairly well written. And I enjoyed the main character's personality and moral strength. (Though a touch unrealistic at times.)
As someone familiar with Scripture, it wasn't difficult to recognize some of the parallels here with accounts from the Bible. Though, these parallels felt more like the author was using the Biblical accounts as a springboard or outline rather than with an intent to instruct or bring understanding. The book was enjoyable as a story, but at least personally, it did not provoke spiritual, moral, or emotional growth. Maybe more will come as the story plays out in future books? (My favorite series by this author is his "Knights of Arrethrae," which has both interesting storylines and strong spiritual growth; both shown and inspired.)
With the author's background in the Air Force, it is not surprising that both the fighting and flying scenes are written with detail.
And there is a definite romance playing out through the story. Interest, attraction, moments of deep connection, relationship, etc. Not inappropriately handled, but very present.
Overall, this was an interesting story, but lacking in inspiration. I'll enjoy the series as a fun read, but probably not one I'll prioritize having on my bookshelf.
October 1, 2025
Solid 4 stars!
I burned through this in a single sitting and loved almost every moment. It took 2 or 3 chapters for me to be fully invested, but after that it just took off. It gives Red Rising meets the story of the Exodus vibes. The writing is not complex and it moves quickly but with an excellent rythym.
I’m reading this after my nephews, who are reading it as a part of their home school curriculum and I can’t wait to see what they thought of it.
Beautifully written, very enthralling, and I highly recommend this whether you have a strong understanding of the Book of Exodus. It wouldn’t hurt to give the second book of the Bible a read though! Finding the allusions to Exodus was half the fun of reading it!
I burned through this in a single sitting and loved almost every moment. It took 2 or 3 chapters for me to be fully invested, but after that it just took off. It gives Red Rising meets the story of the Exodus vibes. The writing is not complex and it moves quickly but with an excellent rythym.
I’m reading this after my nephews, who are reading it as a part of their home school curriculum and I can’t wait to see what they thought of it.
Beautifully written, very enthralling, and I highly recommend this whether you have a strong understanding of the Book of Exodus. It wouldn’t hurt to give the second book of the Bible a read though! Finding the allusions to Exodus was half the fun of reading it!
July 7, 2024
Moses… but make it Star Wars 🤩 I AM SO IN
Also, can we just take a moment for the master of imagery! I felt like I could hear these battle scenes. It was an immersive experience. Chuck Black’s writing and knowledge is on another level.
Rivet is my absolute favorite!
Book two cannot arrive in the mail fast enough!!!
Also, can we just take a moment for the master of imagery! I felt like I could hear these battle scenes. It was an immersive experience. Chuck Black’s writing and knowledge is on another level.
Rivet is my absolute favorite!
Book two cannot arrive in the mail fast enough!!!
January 4, 2022
When I first heard about this retelling of the story of Moses as a science fiction, I was a bit wary that it would either be too far-fetched or that I would not be able to follow. Oh it was very well done! I am excited to read on in the series and to share with friends.
January 24, 2024
I love Chuck Black’s writing! Definitely a different feel from his other books but enjoyable nonetheless. This is also a lot more for a younger audience and not quite as intense as his Wars of the Realm.
July 1, 2025
It is very well written. It was the first and best science fiction allegory I have ever read! It was thought-provoking and pointed me back to the Bible. I am excited to start book two in the series.
November 26, 2025
Wow! This is an amazing book! I love the metaphors used depicting life in sin versus new life in Christ. It immediately drew me in when I started reading it and I cant wait to read the second one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews