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Starganauts #1
Starganauts
The end of Earth was their beginning.
Kaity Anderson was a new bride on her wedding day. Samantha Harris was an engineer who had given up all to follow God.
Kaity’s reception is ruined when an alien gunship incinerates the surface of Earth. Rescued from the apocalypse by a strange prophetess, Kaity, her husband, and five others are drawn across the galaxy. While the prophetess promises God has a plan, Kaity grows increasingly desperate as their chances of survival—and water supply—dwindle.
Samantha didn’t ask to be God’s prophetess. Yet once she answers the call, the Spirit leads her to an inhospitable world with Kaity and several of Earth’s survivors. Hounded by the master of the gunship, the Earthlings search for water as their alien pursuers and dehydration close in. Only God’s promise of a future in a distant city gives Samantha any hope of survival. But could the answer to all their problems lie in eight, mysterious orbs? The discovery of these crystals will change their lives—and the destiny of galaxies—forever.
Thus begins Starganauts, a clean, compelling Christian space opera adventure by C.E. Stone. Fans of Star Wars and Star Trek will enjoy this series that explores how God’s plan prevails, even against impossible odds.
Kaity Anderson was a new bride on her wedding day. Samantha Harris was an engineer who had given up all to follow God.
Kaity’s reception is ruined when an alien gunship incinerates the surface of Earth. Rescued from the apocalypse by a strange prophetess, Kaity, her husband, and five others are drawn across the galaxy. While the prophetess promises God has a plan, Kaity grows increasingly desperate as their chances of survival—and water supply—dwindle.
Samantha didn’t ask to be God’s prophetess. Yet once she answers the call, the Spirit leads her to an inhospitable world with Kaity and several of Earth’s survivors. Hounded by the master of the gunship, the Earthlings search for water as their alien pursuers and dehydration close in. Only God’s promise of a future in a distant city gives Samantha any hope of survival. But could the answer to all their problems lie in eight, mysterious orbs? The discovery of these crystals will change their lives—and the destiny of galaxies—forever.
Thus begins Starganauts, a clean, compelling Christian space opera adventure by C.E. Stone. Fans of Star Wars and Star Trek will enjoy this series that explores how God’s plan prevails, even against impossible odds.
274 pages, ebook
Published June 19, 2021
1 person is currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Stone
7 books79 followersC.E. Stone is a tutor by day, award-winning Christian author by night. She is also the editor of the Daughters of Tamnarae series by M.H. Elrich. The wife of a chronically-ill husband, she tutors a host of students between writing her next book and plotting a galactic takeover. She created Starganauts at the age of 10.
Though primarily a fantasy writer, she told her best friend about the Starganauts universe one day. For 2 hours. Afterward, her friend insisted she write everything down. Starganauts is the result. C.E. hopes to follow in the footsteps of her favorite authors, Tolkien and Lewis, albeit with a sci-fi twist.
Though primarily a fantasy writer, she told her best friend about the Starganauts universe one day. For 2 hours. Afterward, her friend insisted she write everything down. Starganauts is the result. C.E. hopes to follow in the footsteps of her favorite authors, Tolkien and Lewis, albeit with a sci-fi twist.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 23, 2021
Exciting sci-fi story with strong Christian themes! Gotta love a good Star Wars vibes story right? Read this awesome story if you love space action, strong themes, and characters with big destinies. 🚀
May 12, 2021
Star Trek meets the Power Rangers is how I would describe the debut novel of author C. E. Stone. Starganauts, a Christian space opera novel, is a book lovers of science fiction are sure to enjoy!
Book Blurb: The end of Earth was their beginning. When an alien gunship shatters their lives forever, a prophetess and a newlywed are hurled to a distant galaxy. Crash-landing on an alien world, they face a dwindling water supply and pursuit by the master of the gunship. Yet the discovery of eight mysterious orbs may prove their salvation. It could also change the destiny of galaxies.
First, this book is action-packed right from the beginning. And once those mysterious orbs are discovered, I literally had to sit up I was so enthralled! The characters and character development were well executed, but what I loved even more were the themes woven throughout the novel. Specific lessons of trusting God even in times of darkness, relying on your spouse and turning to God together, and how greatest growth often comes from difficult or challenging times. In addition, one is reminded of the need to listen to God and use God-given talents to glorify the Creator, and one is reminded of the freedom and salvation that rests in the name of Jesus.
Some of my favorite quotes that connect to the themes of Starganauts are as follows: -- "Fantasy can give us hope when the real world seems dismal.”
- “But when God gives you a gift and tells you to use it, only the faithless walk away.”
- “Sometimes, healing carries a cost. But if we endure, the bliss we experience afterwards far outweighs it.”
- "As a pot had no right telling the potter how to shape it, so she must submit to God’s role in shaping her life."
- “We’re weighed down heavily by our sins, yet in an instant, Jesus lifts them from our shoulders. We are free from their bondage, and it is a wonderful feeling indeed.”
There were some parts of the book where I felt there was more telling than showing (ie. a paragraph references a fight between Sharko and Kaity; when the survivors test out the mysterious orbs). However, there is still a LOT of showing and action in the book!
I will admit that I struggled with the beginning of the book - but more for personal reasons than anything with the writing. The decimation of Earth, for some reason, made me think of the Left Behind book series (which caused me great anxiety as a child). However, Stone's writing quickly reminded me that God has a purpose in all things - this book is a great story of faith, hope, and perseverance.
Overall, I give Starganauts a 4.5/5 star rating. I highly recommend it to adult readers of science fiction, lovers of space operas, and fans of Christian fiction. It is clean so young adult readers may enjoy this book as well.
I anxiously await book 2!
*I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Book Blurb: The end of Earth was their beginning. When an alien gunship shatters their lives forever, a prophetess and a newlywed are hurled to a distant galaxy. Crash-landing on an alien world, they face a dwindling water supply and pursuit by the master of the gunship. Yet the discovery of eight mysterious orbs may prove their salvation. It could also change the destiny of galaxies.
First, this book is action-packed right from the beginning. And once those mysterious orbs are discovered, I literally had to sit up I was so enthralled! The characters and character development were well executed, but what I loved even more were the themes woven throughout the novel. Specific lessons of trusting God even in times of darkness, relying on your spouse and turning to God together, and how greatest growth often comes from difficult or challenging times. In addition, one is reminded of the need to listen to God and use God-given talents to glorify the Creator, and one is reminded of the freedom and salvation that rests in the name of Jesus.
Some of my favorite quotes that connect to the themes of Starganauts are as follows: -- "Fantasy can give us hope when the real world seems dismal.”
- “But when God gives you a gift and tells you to use it, only the faithless walk away.”
- “Sometimes, healing carries a cost. But if we endure, the bliss we experience afterwards far outweighs it.”
- "As a pot had no right telling the potter how to shape it, so she must submit to God’s role in shaping her life."
- “We’re weighed down heavily by our sins, yet in an instant, Jesus lifts them from our shoulders. We are free from their bondage, and it is a wonderful feeling indeed.”
There were some parts of the book where I felt there was more telling than showing (ie. a paragraph references a fight between Sharko and Kaity; when the survivors test out the mysterious orbs). However, there is still a LOT of showing and action in the book!
I will admit that I struggled with the beginning of the book - but more for personal reasons than anything with the writing. The decimation of Earth, for some reason, made me think of the Left Behind book series (which caused me great anxiety as a child). However, Stone's writing quickly reminded me that God has a purpose in all things - this book is a great story of faith, hope, and perseverance.
Overall, I give Starganauts a 4.5/5 star rating. I highly recommend it to adult readers of science fiction, lovers of space operas, and fans of Christian fiction. It is clean so young adult readers may enjoy this book as well.
I anxiously await book 2!
*I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
December 21, 2022
Starry Read
As someone who has limited experience with sci-fi, I didn't know what to expect.
The beginning was a little rough as I acclimated to the author's style of writing, but I soon became hooked. I snuck every opportunity to read this.
Before I reached the end, I had decided I wanted to read the next book.
Good job, Mrs. Stone! You've succeeded in making a sci-fi fan where I didn't think it was possible.
As someone who has limited experience with sci-fi, I didn't know what to expect.
The beginning was a little rough as I acclimated to the author's style of writing, but I soon became hooked. I snuck every opportunity to read this.
Before I reached the end, I had decided I wanted to read the next book.
Good job, Mrs. Stone! You've succeeded in making a sci-fi fan where I didn't think it was possible.
July 22, 2021
Starganauts by Stone was a really great read. It was a wonderful mix of growing in your faith with a power rangers twist (I know the author says a star trek twist but I'm more familiar with P.R. and thus feel more comfortable comparting it to that).
There was action right from the beginning and I liked that. Stone had a great mix of action and planning. The cast of characters were great, all dealing with the events from the beginning of the story. Stone did a great way in writing about them working though the mix of emotions they were all dealing with. And with such a big cast of characters they all brought something to the table, and stood out on their own.
I liked how Stone wrote about Kaity and 'Sharko' growing in their marriage, and while this is not a romance book they had some really cute moments. Some of Sharko's lines with his wife were the best!
I loved the way Stone wrote about Samantha. A woman who had given up everything to prepare for the destruction of earth, and then how she deals with not only being tasked with being the leader of the group, but their spiritual leader as well.
There is a great mix of humor and major quote worthy material.
The world building was really well done, and the orbs were so cool!
Most of all the main theme Stone had was well written throughout the book and kept on point. With constant reminders of having faith in God's promise and trusting Him to get them through the difficult times.
If you enjoy Christian Sci-Fi this is a must read.
-The story is told using multiple pov's, and while that was awesome (because I love multiple povs stories), I did not enjoy how at times it felt like I was jumping into a new pov in the next paragraph with no notice. However, that might have just been how I was reading it because there were so many great characters and we got their pov at one point or another.
** I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
There was action right from the beginning and I liked that. Stone had a great mix of action and planning. The cast of characters were great, all dealing with the events from the beginning of the story. Stone did a great way in writing about them working though the mix of emotions they were all dealing with. And with such a big cast of characters they all brought something to the table, and stood out on their own.
I liked how Stone wrote about Kaity and 'Sharko' growing in their marriage, and while this is not a romance book they had some really cute moments. Some of Sharko's lines with his wife were the best!
I loved the way Stone wrote about Samantha. A woman who had given up everything to prepare for the destruction of earth, and then how she deals with not only being tasked with being the leader of the group, but their spiritual leader as well.
There is a great mix of humor and major quote worthy material.
The world building was really well done, and the orbs were so cool!
Most of all the main theme Stone had was well written throughout the book and kept on point. With constant reminders of having faith in God's promise and trusting Him to get them through the difficult times.
If you enjoy Christian Sci-Fi this is a must read.
-The story is told using multiple pov's, and while that was awesome (because I love multiple povs stories), I did not enjoy how at times it felt like I was jumping into a new pov in the next paragraph with no notice. However, that might have just been how I was reading it because there were so many great characters and we got their pov at one point or another.
** I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
April 6, 2022
DNF for profanity
Other thoughts...I really didn't connect well with the style (a LOT of telling) and had some problems with some of the theological issues--I usually try to put deep theological questions on a bit of a back burner for sci-fi, but when the author brings them front-and-center, it's hard to just let them pass. Just a couple examples: I understood the whole "Noah's ark" symbolism that was going on, but not being in Noah's day, that would mean there were potentially millions of faithful believers left behind to be completely wiped out by the alien threat, which...would take me some time to fully unpack, but it's a fictional story, so...still seems different from the message provided by the original ark, though. Also, it was really hard to tell what was supposed to set Samantha apart from hundreds of failed "doomsday" prophets, especially for her listeners. Just because she ended up really having had a revelation? How were they supposed to know that? The idea that they were supposed to follow her just because she said "God said so" without any other confirmation seemed rather alarming. Again, yes, biblical prophets, but there were also biblical false prophets, and it's not usually the wisest thing in the world to quit paying your bills and stock a discarded spaceship for nobody-knows-what, so...again, yes, in the plot the warning really did come from God, but the execution still left me feeling unsettled. In the end, it was the "Go to h---" (from a non-Christian character) that did it in for me. :S
Other thoughts...I really didn't connect well with the style (a LOT of telling) and had some problems with some of the theological issues--I usually try to put deep theological questions on a bit of a back burner for sci-fi, but when the author brings them front-and-center, it's hard to just let them pass. Just a couple examples: I understood the whole "Noah's ark" symbolism that was going on, but not being in Noah's day, that would mean there were potentially millions of faithful believers left behind to be completely wiped out by the alien threat, which...would take me some time to fully unpack, but it's a fictional story, so...still seems different from the message provided by the original ark, though. Also, it was really hard to tell what was supposed to set Samantha apart from hundreds of failed "doomsday" prophets, especially for her listeners. Just because she ended up really having had a revelation? How were they supposed to know that? The idea that they were supposed to follow her just because she said "God said so" without any other confirmation seemed rather alarming. Again, yes, biblical prophets, but there were also biblical false prophets, and it's not usually the wisest thing in the world to quit paying your bills and stock a discarded spaceship for nobody-knows-what, so...again, yes, in the plot the warning really did come from God, but the execution still left me feeling unsettled. In the end, it was the "Go to h---" (from a non-Christian character) that did it in for me. :S
July 8, 2022
Have you ever struggled to trust God’s plan?
Kaity Anderson knows this struggle all too well. All the world seemed radiant and full of hope as her wedding day dawned, until the unthinkable happened. During the reception — an event that should have been marked by joy — an alien gunship launched an attack against Earth, leaving the surface of the planet irrevocably destroyed.
They had been warned it was coming. A strange prophetess, Samantha, had spoken of the coming destruction, yet none had really believed her. Still, just before the attack arrived, she was there, ready and willing to take those willing to believe her in a space ship that would take them far from the imminent danger.
Choosing to do so, Kaity, her husband, and a few others watch in horror from the ship as their home, loved ones, and fellow humans are destroyed. Crippled by loss, they arrive on an unfamiliar planet, where greater challenges and victories await them than they could have ever imagined.
Up to this point, I have not been a big fan of sci-fi books, but after reading Starganauts, I consider myself officially converted. C.E. Stone has created such an expansive universe, full of characters whose strengths and weaknesses are so relatable and impactful.
The action scenes of the story are vivid and exciting, but also well-balanced with moments that make you think and challenge you in your walk with God right along with Kaity, Samantha, and the other characters. I am so excited to see where the rest of this series takes readers and am sure that more wonderful galactic adventures are in store!
Kaity Anderson knows this struggle all too well. All the world seemed radiant and full of hope as her wedding day dawned, until the unthinkable happened. During the reception — an event that should have been marked by joy — an alien gunship launched an attack against Earth, leaving the surface of the planet irrevocably destroyed.
They had been warned it was coming. A strange prophetess, Samantha, had spoken of the coming destruction, yet none had really believed her. Still, just before the attack arrived, she was there, ready and willing to take those willing to believe her in a space ship that would take them far from the imminent danger.
Choosing to do so, Kaity, her husband, and a few others watch in horror from the ship as their home, loved ones, and fellow humans are destroyed. Crippled by loss, they arrive on an unfamiliar planet, where greater challenges and victories await them than they could have ever imagined.
Up to this point, I have not been a big fan of sci-fi books, but after reading Starganauts, I consider myself officially converted. C.E. Stone has created such an expansive universe, full of characters whose strengths and weaknesses are so relatable and impactful.
The action scenes of the story are vivid and exciting, but also well-balanced with moments that make you think and challenge you in your walk with God right along with Kaity, Samantha, and the other characters. I am so excited to see where the rest of this series takes readers and am sure that more wonderful galactic adventures are in store!
February 25, 2022
Even though I don't normally get into Sci-Fi/futuristic stories, I found this one entertaining. The cover is really cool. The detail is impressive. I did like the part--"'Because . . ." Vogul suddenly whipped out his plasma pistol and pointed it at the Trylithian's chest. '. . . I need to test your loyalty, first. Do you serve me, or Durag?' The surprised male jumped involuntarily, sweat breaking out across his paling blue skin"--as I felt that to be a realistic reaction, as opposed to many reactions I've seen that were so calm and collected.
There were moments that made me laugh. I enjoyed reading the guys' perspectives, especially. When the earth was destroyed at the beginning, that made a me bit uncomfortable (end of the world stories have never held much appeal for me). The violence felt a bit much at times. Otherwise, however, the story is fun and has good messages.
There were moments that made me laugh. I enjoyed reading the guys' perspectives, especially. When the earth was destroyed at the beginning, that made a me bit uncomfortable (end of the world stories have never held much appeal for me). The violence felt a bit much at times. Otherwise, however, the story is fun and has good messages.
May 15, 2021
A fantastic adventure for science-fiction fantasy/space opera fans
I've said it before: I don't usually read science fiction books. So when I pick up a science fiction book, you have to know that it is really good.
What I loved about this book: the pacing and the characters. This book flows so well, from the apocalyptic beginning to the epic showdown on a spaceship. There was a perfect balance of action and dialogue that you don't find in many books. The characters were relatable. Kaity is consumed with grief; Samantha feels the loneliness of being a leader; Derek "Sharko" struggles to step up when he is needed; and James "Dudeman" struggles with bitterness. There was plenty of humor in this book too, quips that brought a smile to my face, alleviating some of the tension in the plot. There is even sweet moments of romance that make you go "awww."
This book is a great launch to an awesome series featuring aliens, lasers, and spacesuit superheroes. A must read for anyone who likes fantasy and science fiction combined.
I've said it before: I don't usually read science fiction books. So when I pick up a science fiction book, you have to know that it is really good.
What I loved about this book: the pacing and the characters. This book flows so well, from the apocalyptic beginning to the epic showdown on a spaceship. There was a perfect balance of action and dialogue that you don't find in many books. The characters were relatable. Kaity is consumed with grief; Samantha feels the loneliness of being a leader; Derek "Sharko" struggles to step up when he is needed; and James "Dudeman" struggles with bitterness. There was plenty of humor in this book too, quips that brought a smile to my face, alleviating some of the tension in the plot. There is even sweet moments of romance that make you go "awww."
This book is a great launch to an awesome series featuring aliens, lasers, and spacesuit superheroes. A must read for anyone who likes fantasy and science fiction combined.
February 3, 2022
C.E. Stone did a wonderful job vividly describing extraterrestrial planets and life. I was able to picture the scenes so well, all the while getting pulled into the story, instead of bored as I have with other stories which elaborate the details. She also conveys Christian morals within her character development. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to friends.
May 11, 2022
For Space Opera, this is quite up close and personal. You can’t help but feel the harrowing pain of the survivors of Earth’s destruction as they struggle with the challenges on reaching a distant and not very hospitable, planet. The challenges range from physical survival to facing the facts that they may well be the only humans left in the universe and the spiritual warfare against the despair that could devour them as surely as the lack of water. It’s not All despair though, (no spoilers here) but even when hope is dim, it’s never completely extinguished. Well done! Now I have to get my hands on the sequel!
April 9, 2022
It's okay
This book was okay. It's very clean and Christian, appropriate for homeschoolers and teens. I found the stuff on the desert planet pretty slow, but it picks up once they get their armor.
This book was okay. It's very clean and Christian, appropriate for homeschoolers and teens. I found the stuff on the desert planet pretty slow, but it picks up once they get their armor.
January 31, 2022
C. E. Stone’s Starganauts is a mixed bag. You might like it or you might not depending on what you’re after. For me, it mostly leaned towards bland. Blowing up the earth in the opening was a real gutsy move. I’ll give it that. The Biblical integrity it presented I applaud very much too! Unfortunately, what really killed my personal experience was its lagging middle and penchant for over-preachiness. Our characters’ hunt for water in a dull desert simply swallowed too many chapters for me. The one-note conversations felt repetitive too, and though I appreciate Biblical truth as much as the next Christian, the ‘sermons’ kept holding the plot hostage. They just didn’t help move the story forward.
However, if you absolutely adore survival stories and space operas you’ll likely enjoy Starganauts regardless of its flaws. I’d also recommend this book to parents with young kids who love outer space adventures. They’d definitely get their alien fix and will hear a good helping of God’s Word along the way. Just know that if you’re like me and prefer a faster paced narrative and much subtler Biblical messaging, Starganauts might not be your ‘space’-suit. Otherwise, give it a flight test.
However, if you absolutely adore survival stories and space operas you’ll likely enjoy Starganauts regardless of its flaws. I’d also recommend this book to parents with young kids who love outer space adventures. They’d definitely get their alien fix and will hear a good helping of God’s Word along the way. Just know that if you’re like me and prefer a faster paced narrative and much subtler Biblical messaging, Starganauts might not be your ‘space’-suit. Otherwise, give it a flight test.
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July 12, 2022Overall, I enjoyed this book and found the action exciting and the messages relevant.
Positives
Battle scenes: The eight humans are being hunted by a madman who has an alien army at his disposal, so the book has a good amount of action and battle scenes, which are written well. The action happens at a fast pace, so it is believable as a battle, but it sufficiently describes what is happening so the reader can imagine it all.
Cool technology: The spacecrafts, weapons, and other technologies were cool. The Stargonauts' suits were especially interesting.
Message of hope and letting go of the past: The book contains multiple Christian messages, but the messages of hope during hopeless times and letting go of the past to embrace the future were the two messages that came across as the most realistic and relatable.
Negatives
The characters felt pretty realistic except when they would talk about God. They would use phrases or wording that isn't really used outside of a church building, and that felt scripted rather than natural.
Each character had three or four titles, and that was often confusing. I know authors want to use variety of words, but when the reader is juggling 8×4 characters names, that equals 32 titles to remember, and I couldn't remember them all.
Positives
Battle scenes: The eight humans are being hunted by a madman who has an alien army at his disposal, so the book has a good amount of action and battle scenes, which are written well. The action happens at a fast pace, so it is believable as a battle, but it sufficiently describes what is happening so the reader can imagine it all.
Cool technology: The spacecrafts, weapons, and other technologies were cool. The Stargonauts' suits were especially interesting.
Message of hope and letting go of the past: The book contains multiple Christian messages, but the messages of hope during hopeless times and letting go of the past to embrace the future were the two messages that came across as the most realistic and relatable.
Negatives
The characters felt pretty realistic except when they would talk about God. They would use phrases or wording that isn't really used outside of a church building, and that felt scripted rather than natural.
Each character had three or four titles, and that was often confusing. I know authors want to use variety of words, but when the reader is juggling 8×4 characters names, that equals 32 titles to remember, and I couldn't remember them all.
October 7, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I will try to keep this review spoiler free!
I don’t usually read sci-fi books but I saw that this one was faith based and decide to give it a go.
This book is in third person, so I love that you get a little of everyone’s perspective. When you have such a large group of main characters it is really nice to kind of peak into all of their heads.
All of the characters were so well written and the author managed to weave her faith into the story so seamlessly that even though they are in space with aliens their relationships with Christ still felt real.
One of my favorite quotes from the book was “The greatest cruelty isn’t in speaking,” he continued, “but in saying nothing at all”. It’s just such a true statement even in the real world that as I read it I felt convicted myself and having a fantasy book that can do that for me is just amazing!
Im not saying I have a favorite character 🫣 but Nick is my favorite. Even though we didn’t get to see him a lot of him in this book, I just loved his humor and his accent!😉
All in all I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series unfolds!
I did receive a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review but all the opinions expressed are my own.
I will try to keep this review spoiler free!
I don’t usually read sci-fi books but I saw that this one was faith based and decide to give it a go.
This book is in third person, so I love that you get a little of everyone’s perspective. When you have such a large group of main characters it is really nice to kind of peak into all of their heads.
All of the characters were so well written and the author managed to weave her faith into the story so seamlessly that even though they are in space with aliens their relationships with Christ still felt real.
One of my favorite quotes from the book was “The greatest cruelty isn’t in speaking,” he continued, “but in saying nothing at all”. It’s just such a true statement even in the real world that as I read it I felt convicted myself and having a fantasy book that can do that for me is just amazing!
Im not saying I have a favorite character 🫣 but Nick is my favorite. Even though we didn’t get to see him a lot of him in this book, I just loved his humor and his accent!😉
All in all I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series unfolds!
I did receive a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review but all the opinions expressed are my own.
March 16, 2022
While I'm not a huge sci-fi fan, C. E. Stone's Starganauts has just enough epic world building in it that it drew me in!
Starting off with an explosive bang (in quite the literal sense!), the story follows Kaity and a handful of other survivors as they flee a destroyed earth to a whole new planet where they struggle to start a new life. Stone's writing is gripping, with sweeping landscapes and fun and fascinating alien species. I can tell she put a lot of work and thought into the worldbuilding alone!
Starganauts is a fascinating and interesting first novel of what will undoubtedly be a fast-paced and intriguing series, perfect for fans of Star Trek and Star Wars!
Starting off with an explosive bang (in quite the literal sense!), the story follows Kaity and a handful of other survivors as they flee a destroyed earth to a whole new planet where they struggle to start a new life. Stone's writing is gripping, with sweeping landscapes and fun and fascinating alien species. I can tell she put a lot of work and thought into the worldbuilding alone!
Starganauts is a fascinating and interesting first novel of what will undoubtedly be a fast-paced and intriguing series, perfect for fans of Star Trek and Star Wars!
May 30, 2022
Starganauts is a great Christian Sci-Fi Space Adventure!!
I loved reading C.E. Stone’s exciting Sci-fi book! This story has interesting characters that are called, Starganauts. Their exciting space adventure includes their attempts at survival while also seeking God’s will and purpose. This is an excellent book that I highly recommend!!
I loved reading C.E. Stone’s exciting Sci-fi book! This story has interesting characters that are called, Starganauts. Their exciting space adventure includes their attempts at survival while also seeking God’s will and purpose. This is an excellent book that I highly recommend!!
March 4, 2022
I love every bit of this book. The characters are well written and the plot is amazing. One of a kind and if you are into fantasy/sci-fi stories then this is for you.
February 15, 2022
The first sentence of the back cover blurb should have told me everything I needed to know about this book: Kaity Anderson was a new bride on her wedding day. That’s right. She was a new bride on her wedding day. As opposed to what else, exactly? In the About the Author section, C.E. Stone writes that she created the world of Starganauts at the age of ten, and, unfortunately that’s exactly the way the book comes across. The writing is amateurish at best; the plot is all over the place; there’s absolutely no sense of dramatic tension; and the moral of the story will be regurgitated in character conversations all throughout the book.
The plot of Starganauts, the best I can figure out, follows Earth’s last survivors as they try to find a new home. All seems lost until they come across eight mysterious orbs that transform them into the Starganauts—knockoff Power Rangers with superpowers. From here, it’s all about finding the bad guys and saving the day. The plot goes everywhere and nowhere all at the same time, throwing characters and action at us, then taking pages and pages to recite their history and call it character development. It’s disjointed, difficult to follow, and unpleasant to read.
Early on in the book, Earth is destroyed. Only one character, a prophetess, has advance notice and has built a spaceship to take those who will listen off-world. In the end, only eight people enter the Ark—uhh The Deliverer—and are whisked away just as the planet is destroyed. This is how the characters react.
“We wanted an unforgettable honeymoon,” she [Kaity] said bitterly, “This fits the bill, in so many negative ways.”
“I’m so sorry,” Sharko murmured, his voice breaking. “I wanted to give you a better wedding night than this—a better honeymoon—a better life.”
…
“I still feel bad…” Sharko began. Kaity put a hushing finger to his lips.”
“Don’t! God is with us, and we can still have a good marriage.
A few pages later, we’re told more about how Kaity and Sharko’s relationship is faring.
“Learning to be a wife and a love was a joy, yet her heart still throbbed with pain. Her parents’ faces on that final day haunted her. They would still be alive, she thought chokingly, if they hadn’t insisted on gathering stuff. Plain, worthless, miserable *stuff*!”
The asterisks for emphasis are in the original and I promise you that I am making none of this up. Earth gets blown up, but hey, they can still have a good marriage. WHAT EVEN ARE THESE PRIORITIES??? And every character is like this. They are one-dimensional caricatures of some emotional trait and absolutely nothing else. Yet, Stone seemingly has fully thought-out backstories for everyone and every character is described ad nauseum. I’ve never read so much about a character and learned so little.
The moralism in the book is constant and, to be frank, often harmful. Should Sharko feel bad about the destruction of Earth and seven billion people? Nah. God’s with them (and they can still have a good marriage). NO. FEEL BAD. JESUS WEPT OVER THE DEATH OF ONE PERSON AND HE BROUGHT THAT PERSON BACK TO LIFE. The constant fake cheeriness in the face of evil and despair is not only unrealistic, it’s unbiblical. There’s a whole book called Lamentations that’s about the destruction of a city. Jeremiah didn’t just say “Don’t feel bad. God’s with us.” He wrestled over what had been lost. And that’s not even getting into the sanctimonious judgmentalism we see based on those who didn’t get in the ship. Kaity’s parents, for instance, wanted to cash out some bank accounts first. BEFORE THEY LEFT THE EARTH??? I’m just at a loss for what these characters are doing, what their motivations are, or why the author thinks they should act this way.
It sounds like a child’s story, because it is a child’s story. There are characters named Sharko and Dudeman, for crying out loud! Maybe, perhaps, potentially as middle grade fiction Starganauts could have worked as a concept. You would still have to contend with the grade school level writing and melodrama, but it would be more fitting to the characters and the story. Obviously, Stone cares about these characters and loves this world. That’s fine. And, also obviously—judging by other reviews—there are people who can overlook the novel’s presentation and enjoy the universe she’s created. I don’t know how. Starganauts is a passion project and I commend Stone for the work she’s put into a world she obviously loves. That love does not translate into good writing. This is not a good book.
The plot of Starganauts, the best I can figure out, follows Earth’s last survivors as they try to find a new home. All seems lost until they come across eight mysterious orbs that transform them into the Starganauts—knockoff Power Rangers with superpowers. From here, it’s all about finding the bad guys and saving the day. The plot goes everywhere and nowhere all at the same time, throwing characters and action at us, then taking pages and pages to recite their history and call it character development. It’s disjointed, difficult to follow, and unpleasant to read.
Early on in the book, Earth is destroyed. Only one character, a prophetess, has advance notice and has built a spaceship to take those who will listen off-world. In the end, only eight people enter the Ark—uhh The Deliverer—and are whisked away just as the planet is destroyed. This is how the characters react.
“We wanted an unforgettable honeymoon,” she [Kaity] said bitterly, “This fits the bill, in so many negative ways.”
“I’m so sorry,” Sharko murmured, his voice breaking. “I wanted to give you a better wedding night than this—a better honeymoon—a better life.”
…
“I still feel bad…” Sharko began. Kaity put a hushing finger to his lips.”
“Don’t! God is with us, and we can still have a good marriage.
A few pages later, we’re told more about how Kaity and Sharko’s relationship is faring.
“Learning to be a wife and a love was a joy, yet her heart still throbbed with pain. Her parents’ faces on that final day haunted her. They would still be alive, she thought chokingly, if they hadn’t insisted on gathering stuff. Plain, worthless, miserable *stuff*!”
The asterisks for emphasis are in the original and I promise you that I am making none of this up. Earth gets blown up, but hey, they can still have a good marriage. WHAT EVEN ARE THESE PRIORITIES??? And every character is like this. They are one-dimensional caricatures of some emotional trait and absolutely nothing else. Yet, Stone seemingly has fully thought-out backstories for everyone and every character is described ad nauseum. I’ve never read so much about a character and learned so little.
The moralism in the book is constant and, to be frank, often harmful. Should Sharko feel bad about the destruction of Earth and seven billion people? Nah. God’s with them (and they can still have a good marriage). NO. FEEL BAD. JESUS WEPT OVER THE DEATH OF ONE PERSON AND HE BROUGHT THAT PERSON BACK TO LIFE. The constant fake cheeriness in the face of evil and despair is not only unrealistic, it’s unbiblical. There’s a whole book called Lamentations that’s about the destruction of a city. Jeremiah didn’t just say “Don’t feel bad. God’s with us.” He wrestled over what had been lost. And that’s not even getting into the sanctimonious judgmentalism we see based on those who didn’t get in the ship. Kaity’s parents, for instance, wanted to cash out some bank accounts first. BEFORE THEY LEFT THE EARTH??? I’m just at a loss for what these characters are doing, what their motivations are, or why the author thinks they should act this way.
It sounds like a child’s story, because it is a child’s story. There are characters named Sharko and Dudeman, for crying out loud! Maybe, perhaps, potentially as middle grade fiction Starganauts could have worked as a concept. You would still have to contend with the grade school level writing and melodrama, but it would be more fitting to the characters and the story. Obviously, Stone cares about these characters and loves this world. That’s fine. And, also obviously—judging by other reviews—there are people who can overlook the novel’s presentation and enjoy the universe she’s created. I don’t know how. Starganauts is a passion project and I commend Stone for the work she’s put into a world she obviously loves. That love does not translate into good writing. This is not a good book.
June 21, 2025
The second a book says it's perfect for fans of Star Trek and Star Wars I know I’m about to read something that understands neither. This was less a sci-fi adventure and more a barely-disguised Power Rangers fantasy starring the author as her own main character. It reads less like a novel and more like someone who found a way to publish their diary.
I genuinely thought this was middle grade based on the cover, tone, and title, only to find out it's billed as adult science fiction. Wild. The writing is 90% telling with all the theological depth of a puddle. And the Christianity? So aggressively inserted it felt less like storytelling and more like a sermon. A common problem with "Christian science fiction" of course but one that was impossible than usual to ignore here.
Just a mess, start to finish.
I genuinely thought this was middle grade based on the cover, tone, and title, only to find out it's billed as adult science fiction. Wild. The writing is 90% telling with all the theological depth of a puddle. And the Christianity? So aggressively inserted it felt less like storytelling and more like a sermon. A common problem with "Christian science fiction" of course but one that was impossible than usual to ignore here.
Just a mess, start to finish.
June 27, 2023
This is the first Space Opera I read and was immediately hooked.
Packed with twists and turns, fantastical settings, and supernatural elements, I was quite reluctant to set the book down.
Pros:
Fast paced, yet slowed down when needed in order to give the reader a small break.
The characters were well rounded and each had personalities that set them apart.
I found the setting described quite well and could imagine the scenery.
The Christian faith was made evident at the very beginning and the theme of salvation was woven into the story.
Cons:
The salvation of one member seem a bit lackluster. I had hoped for a more dramatic or detailed scene. Yet it didn't detract from the story.
Would I recommend it?
Yes! And I have the next two in my book arsenal to read!
Packed with twists and turns, fantastical settings, and supernatural elements, I was quite reluctant to set the book down.
Pros:
Fast paced, yet slowed down when needed in order to give the reader a small break.
The characters were well rounded and each had personalities that set them apart.
I found the setting described quite well and could imagine the scenery.
The Christian faith was made evident at the very beginning and the theme of salvation was woven into the story.
Cons:
The salvation of one member seem a bit lackluster. I had hoped for a more dramatic or detailed scene. Yet it didn't detract from the story.
Would I recommend it?
Yes! And I have the next two in my book arsenal to read!
May 4, 2024
The idea for the story was great but I found myself unable to get into it. The writing was lacking and not immersive at all. Everything was telling, not showing. The dialogue was stilted and stiff; unnatural as was the pacing. Im trying to find good indie authors. And while the idea here was fun, it wasn’t well executed at all. I hope the author every success in the future and I’ll keep my eyes out for future books but this just wasn’t it.
August 25, 2023
Fascinating story about a few christians who escape a terrible disaster on earth and are being led to other planets and civilizations. The characters are well done and do undergo different transfornations through God´s grace.
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