What do you think?
Rate this book
Earth's Only Hope #3
Returning
Earth is dying, but I hold the key to its survival. The people of Earth thought we wouldn’t survive. Why else would they only send their criminals with a ship full of aliens? But we proved them wrong. All we have to do is cross the galaxy and return home before Earth freezes to death in less than three months. Easy, right?
The unknowns of the universe, like meteor showers, wormholes, and space pirates, are nothing compared to what we face on our own ship. With our own people. Our salvation has never been so close…yet so far away.
The unknowns of the universe, like meteor showers, wormholes, and space pirates, are nothing compared to what we face on our own ship. With our own people. Our salvation has never been so close…yet so far away.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2020
101 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Joynell Schultz
69 books485 followersJoynell Schultz spends her days working in a “reliable profession” as a veterinary pharmacist, which pays the bills, but isn’t nearly as exciting as creating alternative worlds writing speculative fiction. While shivering through the long northern Wisconsin winters with her husband, two children, and numerous pets, she enjoys reading, writing, and planning her next vacation.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 20, 2021
Surviving is the third book in Earth's Only Hope. It's a sci-fi, dystopian series with a smidgen of romance. Joynell Schultz writes relatively clean novels for new adults and up.
Even though I received an ARC a while ago, I struggled to get into this book because Surviving (Book 2) was so grim. Returning (Book 3) is also more plot-driven when I prefer character-driven novels. However, once I got going, I wanted to know what would happen next! There is one crisis after another. The author makes the techy and biological aspects so realistic and plausible.
After experiencing betrayal in Book 2, Skylar has a difficult time trusting people. The only one she knows who is always honest with a high moral compass is Quaade. Will he trust her to do the right thing when lives hang in the balance? They are en route to a dying Earth, bringing aid on a spaceship full of humans who are ex-convicts and aliens who have psychic powers. Will they make it in time? And, if they do, will Earth welcome them or betray them?
Quote from Chapter 15:
Wow, had we come a long way. Even if we didn't make it, we at least showed how mortal enemies could bond together if they had a common goal.
Quote from Chapter 20:
Quaade continued, seeming to read my mind, "Because we're all survivors." He turned to Raay. "Even you. I've been in Sky's mind. I've seen prison. Death is the easy way. Living with what you have done... and accepting the evil that lurks inside you... inside everyone... takes courage."
Even though I received an ARC a while ago, I struggled to get into this book because Surviving (Book 2) was so grim. Returning (Book 3) is also more plot-driven when I prefer character-driven novels. However, once I got going, I wanted to know what would happen next! There is one crisis after another. The author makes the techy and biological aspects so realistic and plausible.
After experiencing betrayal in Book 2, Skylar has a difficult time trusting people. The only one she knows who is always honest with a high moral compass is Quaade. Will he trust her to do the right thing when lives hang in the balance? They are en route to a dying Earth, bringing aid on a spaceship full of humans who are ex-convicts and aliens who have psychic powers. Will they make it in time? And, if they do, will Earth welcome them or betray them?
Quote from Chapter 15:
Wow, had we come a long way. Even if we didn't make it, we at least showed how mortal enemies could bond together if they had a common goal.
Quote from Chapter 20:
Quaade continued, seeming to read my mind, "Because we're all survivors." He turned to Raay. "Even you. I've been in Sky's mind. I've seen prison. Death is the easy way. Living with what you have done... and accepting the evil that lurks inside you... inside everyone... takes courage."
March 14, 2020
Great ending to the series!
I loved how Sky and Quaade's story wrapped up; they make such a great couple and I could really see the change and growth in Sky, which was reflected in their relationship over the course of the 3 books, and was even reflected in Quaade's character. I loved seeing this! I also really liked seeing more of Jana and Lon (from the prequel to the series) and seeing the development of other characters like Raay and the Sovereign; and I liked watching how Sky's interactions with them shifted as the story played out.
For me, the storyline did not lack anything - it had drama, action, twists, imagination, a bit of romance. It wrapped up so well, both for the characters and for the Earth; the end result for Earth did surprise me... in a good way. I always find Ms. Schultz's writing to be so imaginative, it hooks me and keeps me engrossed from start to finish. Returning: Earth's Only Hope definitely is an example of this - in fact, the whole series is! The world-building, the character development, the plot progression... all the aspects drew me in and kept me invested in them the entire time. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this series (or Ms. Schultz's work, in general) to anyone looking for good, clean, interesting fiction!
I loved how Sky and Quaade's story wrapped up; they make such a great couple and I could really see the change and growth in Sky, which was reflected in their relationship over the course of the 3 books, and was even reflected in Quaade's character. I loved seeing this! I also really liked seeing more of Jana and Lon (from the prequel to the series) and seeing the development of other characters like Raay and the Sovereign; and I liked watching how Sky's interactions with them shifted as the story played out.
For me, the storyline did not lack anything - it had drama, action, twists, imagination, a bit of romance. It wrapped up so well, both for the characters and for the Earth; the end result for Earth did surprise me... in a good way. I always find Ms. Schultz's writing to be so imaginative, it hooks me and keeps me engrossed from start to finish. Returning: Earth's Only Hope definitely is an example of this - in fact, the whole series is! The world-building, the character development, the plot progression... all the aspects drew me in and kept me invested in them the entire time. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this series (or Ms. Schultz's work, in general) to anyone looking for good, clean, interesting fiction!
April 2, 2020
I have enjoyed this series and was excited to read it today but that carried over into the wee hours of the next day! That’s ok though because I couldn’t put it down until I finished it! I had to see how Sky, Quaade, and my other friends got back to earth! Imagine that -that prisoners on earth along with aliens of two other planets who have been lifelong enemies can try and live peaceably with each other.
Young adult and adult readers will get caught up in this series as there is something all can relate to. I give the series a enthusiastic thumbs up for I think all will enjoy the trip to try and find a planet earthlings could inhabit with the aliens who may already live there and discover somethings on that planet that just may save planet earth!
You really need to start with Connecting though because Lon plays an integral part in this series and you ought to know how he got to earth himself from the stars!
This series shows how people from different species can co-exist peaceably once suspicions and long held differences can be put aside. Wish the inhabitants of earth would take a page out of this book and really put aside their differences and learn to live peaceably with each other right here and now!
Young adult and adult readers will get caught up in this series as there is something all can relate to. I give the series a enthusiastic thumbs up for I think all will enjoy the trip to try and find a planet earthlings could inhabit with the aliens who may already live there and discover somethings on that planet that just may save planet earth!
You really need to start with Connecting though because Lon plays an integral part in this series and you ought to know how he got to earth himself from the stars!
This series shows how people from different species can co-exist peaceably once suspicions and long held differences can be put aside. Wish the inhabitants of earth would take a page out of this book and really put aside their differences and learn to live peaceably with each other right here and now!
November 21, 2020
Earth is rapidly becoming a frozen wasteland, and a ship with aliens and humans is earth’s only hope for survival!
Sky, Quaade, the Vainovians, and the Cruisians are trying to get back to Earth in an attempt to save the planet. They need to cross the galaxy and make it back before Earth freezes to death in less than three months’ time. But they are having all sorts of problems with systems failing, food issues, as well as the unknown dangers inherent in being out in space. Sky has grown into the natural leader everyone expected and is trying desperately to problem-solve whatever they face.
And even when they make it back to Earth, there are uncertainties to deal with: Can they save Earth? Will they face betrayal, Cooperation, Acceptance?
Again a book with intense drama, action and adventure laced with romance and betrayals
And a Happy Ending for all involved
Sky, Quaade, the Vainovians, and the Cruisians are trying to get back to Earth in an attempt to save the planet. They need to cross the galaxy and make it back before Earth freezes to death in less than three months’ time. But they are having all sorts of problems with systems failing, food issues, as well as the unknown dangers inherent in being out in space. Sky has grown into the natural leader everyone expected and is trying desperately to problem-solve whatever they face.
And even when they make it back to Earth, there are uncertainties to deal with: Can they save Earth? Will they face betrayal, Cooperation, Acceptance?
Again a book with intense drama, action and adventure laced with romance and betrayals
And a Happy Ending for all involved
March 23, 2020
Skylar and Quaade are on a ship returning to Earth with thousands of Cruisians and Vainovians. It is possible that they are carrying the solution to Earth's problems and they want to make sure that they are going to be looked after when they arrive back on Sky's home planet. but they are suffering a shortage of food - is the red algea a solution to this, or is it a trap? Will they be able to get back to Earth - and to save it - or will the problems on board be the end of them all?
And if they get back to Earth, can its leaders be trusted to stick to the bargains they have made, or will they once again be betrayed? Loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And if they get back to Earth, can its leaders be trusted to stick to the bargains they have made, or will they once again be betrayed? Loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 7, 2022
Skylar and Quaade finally leave the dangerous, red planet,Noetov, behind and head back toward Earth with an overloaded spaceship and very few resources. The problems they encounter during this return flight don't require weapons so much as they require intelligence, creativity, and stamina. However, the flight proves to be just as life threating as their brief stay on Noetov. This harrowing drama is filled with innovative fixes for all sorts of deadly situations. Don't miss this final episode and discover for yourself the final outcome for Skylar, Quaade, and the other individuals that joined them on this great adventure. Good Read!!!!
March 25, 2020
Everything I hoped for in this last book of the trilogy
I love Joy's books and all her many and varied characters, who feel so real and human, even when they're actually aliens. This series has been my absolute favourite of hers and she seems to have found a completely new direction that suits her even more than either her earlier paranormal or cosy series, at least in my opinion.
The worlds in this book are fully formed, the characters fleshed out, the story arc over the prequel and the trilogy perfectly plotted, and each book had me gripped. I found them very hard to put down, didn't want them to end and couldn't wait for the next one.
In Returning, Sky and the remaining humans, Quaade and the rest of the Vainovian crew, and the Cruisians Sky has invited on board the ship all attempt to make their way back to Earth but the journey is fraught with problems. Systems are failing, food is scarce, aid is far away, and ideas to help them survive are few and far between. She has grown so much since the beginning of Departing and has come into her own, stepping up to finally be the leader everyone else knows that she is, and coming up with solutions to all the issues they are facing.
Quaade has become my favourite of all Joy's heroes and I think it will take a miracle to see him displaced in my heart.
I thought I knew how the story would ultimately end but Joy confounded my expectations completely with a twist I never saw coming but worked marvellously to tie up all the loose ends and be incredibly satisfying for Earth and for me. Joy is such a clever writer and this series showcases her talents more than any of her others.
I loved this series so much and although it ended perfectly, I still want more. There is so much potential for another book, or even a series, that I think we should start a petition to get Joy to give us more stories about these characters we've come to love.
I love Joy's books and all her many and varied characters, who feel so real and human, even when they're actually aliens. This series has been my absolute favourite of hers and she seems to have found a completely new direction that suits her even more than either her earlier paranormal or cosy series, at least in my opinion.
The worlds in this book are fully formed, the characters fleshed out, the story arc over the prequel and the trilogy perfectly plotted, and each book had me gripped. I found them very hard to put down, didn't want them to end and couldn't wait for the next one.
In Returning, Sky and the remaining humans, Quaade and the rest of the Vainovian crew, and the Cruisians Sky has invited on board the ship all attempt to make their way back to Earth but the journey is fraught with problems. Systems are failing, food is scarce, aid is far away, and ideas to help them survive are few and far between. She has grown so much since the beginning of Departing and has come into her own, stepping up to finally be the leader everyone else knows that she is, and coming up with solutions to all the issues they are facing.
Quaade has become my favourite of all Joy's heroes and I think it will take a miracle to see him displaced in my heart.
I thought I knew how the story would ultimately end but Joy confounded my expectations completely with a twist I never saw coming but worked marvellously to tie up all the loose ends and be incredibly satisfying for Earth and for me. Joy is such a clever writer and this series showcases her talents more than any of her others.
I loved this series so much and although it ended perfectly, I still want more. There is so much potential for another book, or even a series, that I think we should start a petition to get Joy to give us more stories about these characters we've come to love.
March 17, 2020
Since this was the trip back to earth, I thought it would be a quick read, but I should have known better. Much happens on this trip and when they arrive back on earth. Loved all the drama, the romance between Sky & Quaade and the relationships between all the characters. Although this is a sci-fi series it was not too technical when it came to all the alien animals, plants and chemicals, made it easy to read. Also loved the bonus epilogue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2020
This is not the first penal ship redemption story I have read, but this is the first that resounds like classic golden age scifi with a modern twist. The author manages to give us the action of Robert Heinlein's juvenile novel 'Starman Jones' with a touch of Carol Van Natta's novella 'Pet Trade' (without the pets). I am enjoying the novo-retro feel of this novel as much as I am enjoying the story and characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2020
Start reading now!
Returning: Earth’s Only Hope Book 3
By Joynell Schultz
Kindle unlimited purchase
Skylar and Quaade's story continues. I recommend reading this series in order starting with the Prequel, Jana and Lon's story as they are in this book. This series has a HEA but you have to wait until the end of the series to get it (lol). If you're interested there is an added epilogue that the author wrote but you have to sign up for her newsletter.
Earth’s Only Hope
(0) Connecting
(1) Departing
(2) Surviving
(3) Returning
Returning: Earth’s Only Hope Book 3
By Joynell Schultz
Kindle unlimited purchase
Skylar and Quaade's story continues. I recommend reading this series in order starting with the Prequel, Jana and Lon's story as they are in this book. This series has a HEA but you have to wait until the end of the series to get it (lol). If you're interested there is an added epilogue that the author wrote but you have to sign up for her newsletter.
Earth’s Only Hope
(0) Connecting
(1) Departing
(2) Surviving
(3) Returning
March 22, 2020
A fantastic ending to a fantastic series!
The series continues to an intense finale! So well-written there were times I was holding my breath without even realizing I was doing it! Well thought out and leaves the reader filled with exhilaration and hope! I'm in total awe! Seriously! One of the best series of books that I've ever read! Well done Ms. Schultz! Very well done! Be sure to get the epilogue!
The series continues to an intense finale! So well-written there were times I was holding my breath without even realizing I was doing it! Well thought out and leaves the reader filled with exhilaration and hope! I'm in total awe! Seriously! One of the best series of books that I've ever read! Well done Ms. Schultz! Very well done! Be sure to get the epilogue!
March 31, 2020
This is book 3 of 3 and it’s a brilliant end to the series. Each book in this series is a must read and the author has done a wonderful job wrapping everything up in this final book. I loved this series and encourage everyone who enjoys this genre to grab this series, get comfy and read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2020
This is the 3rd book I've read written by Joynell Schultz; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2020
I read through the four books in this series in about two days so they are not a hard read. They were the distraction I wanted them to be, but I felt like this last book had some big plot holes. I'm no astrophysicist, but even with the ability to warm the planet I don't see how the unstable axis doesn't still pose a risk to humanity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2020
Allow a day for this family-friendly planet-saving journey which runs into problems. This is Book 3 of the Earth's Only Hope series, but can be read on its own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2021
What an ending!
It was a spectacular ending to a fabulous series. This last book rounds out the end really well, with threads tied that were small and large. The newsletter epilogue was perfect. I loved this book and the entire series. And Sky grew up and into her maturity!
It was a spectacular ending to a fabulous series. This last book rounds out the end really well, with threads tied that were small and large. The newsletter epilogue was perfect. I loved this book and the entire series. And Sky grew up and into her maturity!
June 10, 2021
Loved
I didn't want this series to end.I read all three back to back. Will be following this author in the hope that there Will be more of their work that excites me as this trilogy has.I hope other's enjoy these as much as I have.
I didn't want this series to end.I read all three back to back. Will be following this author in the hope that there Will be more of their work that excites me as this trilogy has.I hope other's enjoy these as much as I have.
April 13, 2020
Feel good story
This was a good conclusion to the series. Not a lot of romance but a lot of moral debate again. Anyway, it was good
This was a good conclusion to the series. Not a lot of romance but a lot of moral debate again. Anyway, it was good
June 22, 2020
This could happen to you
Hear the story of intrigue sadness and people's inner desire to survive at any cost I love these books they were absolutely tremendous
Hear the story of intrigue sadness and people's inner desire to survive at any cost I love these books they were absolutely tremendous
August 17, 2020
Wow
Wow the heroine is really devious. I’m glad she is on my side because to go against her is something I wouldn’t want to face.
Wow the heroine is really devious. I’m glad she is on my side because to go against her is something I wouldn’t want to face.
October 30, 2020
Great ending
This ended well. Loved it. It looked grim for awhile but sky really grew into the leader she needed to be and the ending proves it. Great story
This ended well. Loved it. It looked grim for awhile but sky really grew into the leader she needed to be and the ending proves it. Great story
July 7, 2022
3.5 out of 5
April 1, 2020
In this final book in this series there’s a lot of soul searching for all the characters. People, Skylar assumed were against her, are starting be her friends as they all work to get her for a common goal. There is no us or them, just a unified group working to survive. When the president asked Skylar to be the Alien-Human liaison she answered her perfectly.... “Alien-Earthling,” I corrected. When the president raised an eyebrow, I clarified, “Vainovians, Cruisians, Kaipraians are human, too.”
March 23, 2020
Sky, Quaade, the Vainovians, and the Cruisians are trying to get back to Earth in an attempt to save the planet. They need to cross the galaxy and make it back before Earth freezes to death in less than three months’ time. But they are having all sorts of problems with systems failing, food issues, as well as the unknown dangers inherent in being out in space. Sky has grown into the natural leader everyone expected and is trying desperately to problem-solve whatever they face.
And even when they make it back to Earth, there are still uncertainties to deal with. Can they save Earth? Will they face betrayal? Cooperation? Acceptance?
Wow, there’s lots going on here in this excellent sci-fi adventure! The suspense keeps building and keeps the reader waiting for relief! The world-building is amazing, the story line is fast-paced and intriguing all the way. The characters’ emotions jump off the page and let the reader feel everything they are feeling. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed this book. Then again, this author never lets us down! All the factors that draw me personally into a good sci-fi story were right here. Don’t miss this wonderful book!
Merged review:
Sky, Quaade, the Vainovians, and the Cruisians are trying to get back to Earth in an attempt to save the planet. They need to cross the galaxy and make it back before Earth freezes to death in less than three months’ time. But they are having all sorts of problems with systems failing, food issues, as well as the unknown dangers inherent in being out in space. Sky has grown into the natural leader everyone expected and is trying desperately to problem-solve whatever they face.
And even when they make it back to Earth, there are still uncertainties to deal with. Can they save Earth? Will they face betrayal? Cooperation? Acceptance?
Wow, there’s lots going on here in this excellent sci-fi adventure! The suspense keeps building and keeps the reader waiting for relief! The world-building is amazing, the story line is fast-paced and intriguing all the way. The characters’ emotions jump off the page and let the reader feel everything they are feeling. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed this book. Then again, this author never lets us down! All the factors that draw me personally into a good sci-fi story were right here. Don’t miss this wonderful book!
And even when they make it back to Earth, there are still uncertainties to deal with. Can they save Earth? Will they face betrayal? Cooperation? Acceptance?
Wow, there’s lots going on here in this excellent sci-fi adventure! The suspense keeps building and keeps the reader waiting for relief! The world-building is amazing, the story line is fast-paced and intriguing all the way. The characters’ emotions jump off the page and let the reader feel everything they are feeling. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed this book. Then again, this author never lets us down! All the factors that draw me personally into a good sci-fi story were right here. Don’t miss this wonderful book!
Merged review:
Sky, Quaade, the Vainovians, and the Cruisians are trying to get back to Earth in an attempt to save the planet. They need to cross the galaxy and make it back before Earth freezes to death in less than three months’ time. But they are having all sorts of problems with systems failing, food issues, as well as the unknown dangers inherent in being out in space. Sky has grown into the natural leader everyone expected and is trying desperately to problem-solve whatever they face.
And even when they make it back to Earth, there are still uncertainties to deal with. Can they save Earth? Will they face betrayal? Cooperation? Acceptance?
Wow, there’s lots going on here in this excellent sci-fi adventure! The suspense keeps building and keeps the reader waiting for relief! The world-building is amazing, the story line is fast-paced and intriguing all the way. The characters’ emotions jump off the page and let the reader feel everything they are feeling. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed this book. Then again, this author never lets us down! All the factors that draw me personally into a good sci-fi story were right here. Don’t miss this wonderful book!
November 16, 2020
Great book.
The group are returning to earth with the ability to create enough energy to solve all of Earth's new Ice Age problems.
The starship starts running low on various foods. Too many people for the available food production until someone comes up with a bright idea. Bright ideas don't always work out.
Interesting characters, compelling story, great science.
ARC review
Merged review:
Great book.
The group are returning to earth with the ability to create enough energy to solve all of Earth's new Ice Age problems.
The starship starts running low on various foods. Too many people for the available food production until someone comes up with a bright idea. Bright ideas don't always work out.
Interesting characters, compelling story, great science.
ARC review
[Note: Apparently two listings on Goodreads. Review on other listing dated 22 Mar 2020.]
The group are returning to earth with the ability to create enough energy to solve all of Earth's new Ice Age problems.
The starship starts running low on various foods. Too many people for the available food production until someone comes up with a bright idea. Bright ideas don't always work out.
Interesting characters, compelling story, great science.
ARC review
Merged review:
Great book.
The group are returning to earth with the ability to create enough energy to solve all of Earth's new Ice Age problems.
The starship starts running low on various foods. Too many people for the available food production until someone comes up with a bright idea. Bright ideas don't always work out.
Interesting characters, compelling story, great science.
ARC review
[Note: Apparently two listings on Goodreads. Review on other listing dated 22 Mar 2020.]
March 21, 2020
An excellent ending for this trilogy. Leaving us wanting more. This has such growth potential. Enjoyed reading.
Merged review:
An excellent ending for this trilogy. Leaving us wanting more. This has such growth potential. Enjoyed reading.
Merged review:
An excellent ending for this trilogy. Leaving us wanting more. This has such growth potential. Enjoyed reading.
June 16, 2020
Intense drama, action and adventure laced with romance and betrayals
Cooperation could save many of them, but they must trust enough and understand mutual differences and needs to negotiate and compromise
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cooperation could save many of them, but they must trust enough and understand mutual differences and needs to negotiate and compromise
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews