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After Io
Bryn Michaels is a pilot on the spaceship Persika and she has just killed her captain.
The crew of the Persika was hired to mine platinum ore on Io, but the simple job becomes complicated when their drill malfunctions. Although the crew agrees to head back to the space station with the job unfinished, they don’t make it far before something greater threatens the safety of the ship and its crew.
Bryn is determined to survive, but as she takes steps to ensure her rescue, she begins to wonder if the cost of survival is too great.
After Io is the first book in The Far Light Series by Elliott Wink.
The crew of the Persika was hired to mine platinum ore on Io, but the simple job becomes complicated when their drill malfunctions. Although the crew agrees to head back to the space station with the job unfinished, they don’t make it far before something greater threatens the safety of the ship and its crew.
Bryn is determined to survive, but as she takes steps to ensure her rescue, she begins to wonder if the cost of survival is too great.
After Io is the first book in The Far Light Series by Elliott Wink.
- GenresScience Fiction
181 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2022
10 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Elliott Wink
12 books19 followersI'm a science fiction and fantasy writer with a day job. I've been teaching English for nearly a decade, so I spend my days analyzing writing with my students and my nights putting my own pen to paper.
I have a masters in psychology and I find people fascinating, so I usually spend a lot of time in my characters' heads. Whether that character is drifting through outer space, navigating through a dystopian future, or in another universe entirely, they are unlikely to escape the nature of the human condition when it comes to my stories. We are human, even when we are forging through the unknown.
I live with my very supportive husband and tri-color collie-pit mix in Northern California. When I'm not writing or watching movies, you might find me on the golf course or cooking elaborate, celiac-friendly meals.
I have a masters in psychology and I find people fascinating, so I usually spend a lot of time in my characters' heads. Whether that character is drifting through outer space, navigating through a dystopian future, or in another universe entirely, they are unlikely to escape the nature of the human condition when it comes to my stories. We are human, even when we are forging through the unknown.
I live with my very supportive husband and tri-color collie-pit mix in Northern California. When I'm not writing or watching movies, you might find me on the golf course or cooking elaborate, celiac-friendly meals.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 2, 2022
Great, Gritty, Sci-Fi Space Thriller!
I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of "After Io" and from the very first line of the book I was hooked! I really enjoyed the world building that Elliot Wink has done with the voyage to Io and the spaceship Persika. I felt like I was a member of the crew onboard the ship dealing with all of the events that take place with Bryn, Amai and the other crew members. The mission starts off with great promise but things quickly take dark a turn. This kicks off a series of unfortunate events that leaves you wondering what will happen next. Bryn, the pilot of the Persika, is forced to make some tough decisions with extremely dire consequences... but how will things turn out in the end? You will just have to strap yourself into the cockpit and hold on tight to find out! This story is one wild ride that will leave you wanting more! ...Aaand the best part is that we will eventually get more as this is the first book in "The Far Light Series"! So, if you are looking for a fast-paced, Sci-Fi thriller, "After Io" may be just the book for you!
I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of "After Io" and from the very first line of the book I was hooked! I really enjoyed the world building that Elliot Wink has done with the voyage to Io and the spaceship Persika. I felt like I was a member of the crew onboard the ship dealing with all of the events that take place with Bryn, Amai and the other crew members. The mission starts off with great promise but things quickly take dark a turn. This kicks off a series of unfortunate events that leaves you wondering what will happen next. Bryn, the pilot of the Persika, is forced to make some tough decisions with extremely dire consequences... but how will things turn out in the end? You will just have to strap yourself into the cockpit and hold on tight to find out! This story is one wild ride that will leave you wanting more! ...Aaand the best part is that we will eventually get more as this is the first book in "The Far Light Series"! So, if you are looking for a fast-paced, Sci-Fi thriller, "After Io" may be just the book for you!
February 18, 2022
Interesting Premise Not Realized
After IO is a novella that reads like an elongated short story. While the premise is interesting (mining ship has to turn back early and is set adrift after an accident and the crew fight to remain alive) the story falls flat for a variety of reasons not the least of which is you just don't care about any of the characters.
One of the main issues with short stories is the lack of development and After IO is (or should be) character driven, the central point being the conflict between Bryn and Amai and Tina. However, you learn little about the characters, their motivations, wants/needs, etc., and what you do learn feels superficial at best. There are some prose and science-fiction quibbles to be made here too but those are of lesser consequence to the lack of substance in the story.
Additionally, nothing is explained; not the accident that disables the ship, the reason the ship is disabled, why the ship was set up, who the antagonists are, and the ending is just silly (feels lazy). This reads like a bad, low budget sci-fi indie movie.
Having said all that, I think the author had a good concept with the basic conflict (Bryn/Amai/Tina) and should have explored that more. Elliot Wink is an author building her chops and I hope to see more/expanded material from her in the future.
After IO is a novella that reads like an elongated short story. While the premise is interesting (mining ship has to turn back early and is set adrift after an accident and the crew fight to remain alive) the story falls flat for a variety of reasons not the least of which is you just don't care about any of the characters.
One of the main issues with short stories is the lack of development and After IO is (or should be) character driven, the central point being the conflict between Bryn and Amai and Tina. However, you learn little about the characters, their motivations, wants/needs, etc., and what you do learn feels superficial at best. There are some prose and science-fiction quibbles to be made here too but those are of lesser consequence to the lack of substance in the story.
Additionally, nothing is explained; not the accident that disables the ship, the reason the ship is disabled, why the ship was set up, who the antagonists are, and the ending is just silly (feels lazy). This reads like a bad, low budget sci-fi indie movie.
Having said all that, I think the author had a good concept with the basic conflict (Bryn/Amai/Tina) and should have explored that more. Elliot Wink is an author building her chops and I hope to see more/expanded material from her in the future.
March 4, 2022
Exciting, Somber but brilliant sci fi
I love sci fi but it’s hard to find ones I connect to, because it’s the characters in the sci fi setting that draw my attention, not just the science itself. I’m happy to report I couldn’t put this one down.
I blew through this in under a day and I am confused why it does not have more views. I enjoyed every single chapter of this story. It starts off with a bang and manages that lovely balance of plot and character—building the characters without slowing down the plot.
I cared about all these people and seeing their struggles connected me to them. I wanted them to succeed making me both love and hate the obstacles in their way. Each character decision, good or bad, felt earned and reasonable for their personality even if as readers, we protested against it.
I look forward to the other sci of books from this author because they started the journey with a bang.
I love sci fi but it’s hard to find ones I connect to, because it’s the characters in the sci fi setting that draw my attention, not just the science itself. I’m happy to report I couldn’t put this one down.
I blew through this in under a day and I am confused why it does not have more views. I enjoyed every single chapter of this story. It starts off with a bang and manages that lovely balance of plot and character—building the characters without slowing down the plot.
I cared about all these people and seeing their struggles connected me to them. I wanted them to succeed making me both love and hate the obstacles in their way. Each character decision, good or bad, felt earned and reasonable for their personality even if as readers, we protested against it.
I look forward to the other sci of books from this author because they started the journey with a bang.
February 22, 2022
I need more!!!!!!!
February 2, 2022
I don't read too much fiction but I loved this book.
February 4, 2022
What happens when “The Expanse” meets “The Wire” and the result takes literary form? You get the gripping, dark, gruesome space adventure “After Io” from up-and-coming indie author Elliott Wink. I recommend it 100%!
I’ll be honest. I read a lot of books. It’s not often that a story has me thinking about its characters and their fate when I’m not actually sitting down reading. But with “After Io,” that happened! After a spell of night-time reading, I’d wake up the next morning and lie in bed and muse, “How exactly is Bryn (the protagonist of ‘After Io’) going to rescue herself? What’s going to happen next?” Afterward, as soon as my work was done for the day, I’d resume with the Kindle app on my phone and keep reading.
What makes “After Io” so attention-grabbing? It’s a sci-fi story of thrilling adventure that takes place in space. Protagonist Bryn is the pilot of a mining ship that must dig up a little platinum on Io, a moon of Jupiter. Alas, no sooner does the ship start drilling than does the entire venture start to go very, very wrong. Disaster piles upon disaster, gruesome event follows gruesome event, and it all builds to a cacophony of conspiracy, desperation, and very unfortunate choices. I won’t say more on this, because I don’t want to give away any of the excellent plotting, but be assured that you won’t want to put the book down until you’ve raced all the way through to the end.
One especially remarkable feature of “After Io” is the psychological depth and complexity afforded the characters. It’s not just a space adventure a la “The Expanse.” Instead, using concise, trim language, the author creates characters who are shades of gray, ranging uncertainly between moral integrity and almost sociopathic selfishness. This isn’t Captain Picard versus the Borg Queen—rather, it’s Detective Jimmy McNulty and drug dealer Omar Little and State Senator Clay Davis taking the stage together. Grab the characters of “The Wire” and put them in space, and you have something very close to “After Io.”
The next instalment in this series should be out later in the year, and I’m already waiting with bated breath!
I’ll be honest. I read a lot of books. It’s not often that a story has me thinking about its characters and their fate when I’m not actually sitting down reading. But with “After Io,” that happened! After a spell of night-time reading, I’d wake up the next morning and lie in bed and muse, “How exactly is Bryn (the protagonist of ‘After Io’) going to rescue herself? What’s going to happen next?” Afterward, as soon as my work was done for the day, I’d resume with the Kindle app on my phone and keep reading.
What makes “After Io” so attention-grabbing? It’s a sci-fi story of thrilling adventure that takes place in space. Protagonist Bryn is the pilot of a mining ship that must dig up a little platinum on Io, a moon of Jupiter. Alas, no sooner does the ship start drilling than does the entire venture start to go very, very wrong. Disaster piles upon disaster, gruesome event follows gruesome event, and it all builds to a cacophony of conspiracy, desperation, and very unfortunate choices. I won’t say more on this, because I don’t want to give away any of the excellent plotting, but be assured that you won’t want to put the book down until you’ve raced all the way through to the end.
One especially remarkable feature of “After Io” is the psychological depth and complexity afforded the characters. It’s not just a space adventure a la “The Expanse.” Instead, using concise, trim language, the author creates characters who are shades of gray, ranging uncertainly between moral integrity and almost sociopathic selfishness. This isn’t Captain Picard versus the Borg Queen—rather, it’s Detective Jimmy McNulty and drug dealer Omar Little and State Senator Clay Davis taking the stage together. Grab the characters of “The Wire” and put them in space, and you have something very close to “After Io.”
The next instalment in this series should be out later in the year, and I’m already waiting with bated breath!
October 20, 2024
A Space Sci-Fi Thriller with plenty of suspense and tension…
The deep dark depths of space make for a great setting in this sci-fi story which is packed with suspense and tension. After a contract job abruptly ends in disaster, the crew of the ‘Persika’ must fight for survival as it appears they are being targeted or is it all in their heads? Just who is out to get them may have something to do with their employers who are simply referred to as the ‘Company’.
Luck doesn’t seem to be on the side of ‘Bryn’ or anyone else on the ship’s crew as events turn into a battle for survival where time is running out along with the most important life supporting resource one can find in space – oxygen. Just how she and the rest of crew found themselves in this situation is due to paranoia and part sinister intentions and even some corporate espionage which make for a great vessel to tell this story. The implications of decision making and how everything plays on the conscience of the characters is laid out well by Elliott Wink and there are some chilling moments where everything isn’t quite what it seems. I found the ending to be a little abrupt and I hope that further books in the series provide more detailed answers about the world introduced in this thrilling opener. I’d certainly be interested in reading the next title!
‘There was something keeping them in darkness, hoping it would envelop them. There was someone who wanted them dead…’
The deep dark depths of space make for a great setting in this sci-fi story which is packed with suspense and tension. After a contract job abruptly ends in disaster, the crew of the ‘Persika’ must fight for survival as it appears they are being targeted or is it all in their heads? Just who is out to get them may have something to do with their employers who are simply referred to as the ‘Company’.
Luck doesn’t seem to be on the side of ‘Bryn’ or anyone else on the ship’s crew as events turn into a battle for survival where time is running out along with the most important life supporting resource one can find in space – oxygen. Just how she and the rest of crew found themselves in this situation is due to paranoia and part sinister intentions and even some corporate espionage which make for a great vessel to tell this story. The implications of decision making and how everything plays on the conscience of the characters is laid out well by Elliott Wink and there are some chilling moments where everything isn’t quite what it seems. I found the ending to be a little abrupt and I hope that further books in the series provide more detailed answers about the world introduced in this thrilling opener. I’d certainly be interested in reading the next title!
‘There was something keeping them in darkness, hoping it would envelop them. There was someone who wanted them dead…’
March 5, 2022
The Review
The suspense and intrigue are felt immediately with the author’s very first sentence. The tension and haunting quality of the character development are prevalent as the opening chapter sets the stage for the direction the novel is going. The character growth was crucial to this novel’s narrative, as the closeness and emotional bond the captain has for her crew elevates the danger and sadness of the ship’s situation, while the fear and chilling nature of isolation in space and the need to survive make Bryn a tragic figure.
The way the author leaned so heavily into the sci-fi genre was not only entertaining but was well-balanced with characters that were relatable and themes of survival that readers could become invested in. Forgoing any alien themes or more heavy AI-style sci-fi for well-developed characters and a narrative that could fit in any genre actually made the setting and tone of the sci-fi-themed story feel more vibrant and engaging to the reader.
The Verdict
Emotional, haunting, and captivating, author Elliot Wink’s “After Io” is a must-read sci-fi novel! The twists and turns in the novel that bring Bryn to the breaking point of killing her captain will have readers entranced, while the heartfelt bond the captain had with the crew will keep readers invested as the final pages play out.
The suspense and intrigue are felt immediately with the author’s very first sentence. The tension and haunting quality of the character development are prevalent as the opening chapter sets the stage for the direction the novel is going. The character growth was crucial to this novel’s narrative, as the closeness and emotional bond the captain has for her crew elevates the danger and sadness of the ship’s situation, while the fear and chilling nature of isolation in space and the need to survive make Bryn a tragic figure.
The way the author leaned so heavily into the sci-fi genre was not only entertaining but was well-balanced with characters that were relatable and themes of survival that readers could become invested in. Forgoing any alien themes or more heavy AI-style sci-fi for well-developed characters and a narrative that could fit in any genre actually made the setting and tone of the sci-fi-themed story feel more vibrant and engaging to the reader.
The Verdict
Emotional, haunting, and captivating, author Elliot Wink’s “After Io” is a must-read sci-fi novel! The twists and turns in the novel that bring Bryn to the breaking point of killing her captain will have readers entranced, while the heartfelt bond the captain had with the crew will keep readers invested as the final pages play out.
May 13, 2022
Give it a Go
After looking for a while for a new Indie author to try, this novella seemed promising. A read of the sample gives a really good hook. The sticking point was that for the short length, the price seemed a bit steep in comparison to full-length novels. But then I reasoned that I would happily pay the same for a movie that would entertain for roughly the same time or a dessert in a restaurant that would be gone in minutes. And actually, having got to the end, it benefits from being lean: what would be the point of 50% more than just padding?
The book itself continues in much the same vein as the opening chapter: if you enjoy the hook, you're likely to enjoy the rest. There's a tension and claustrophobia that echoes the likes of Aliens and gritty women facing tough moral choices. It's not exactly an original plot but it is done effectively.
If I had any criticism, it could do with a little more world-building: the generic, monolithic "Company" has been done many times and could do with a little extra character. Also, the secondary characters could perhaps do with a touch more fleshing out if only so that their fates are felt more keenly. But these are small criticisms: it's an effective thriller and I'm glad j gave it a go.
After looking for a while for a new Indie author to try, this novella seemed promising. A read of the sample gives a really good hook. The sticking point was that for the short length, the price seemed a bit steep in comparison to full-length novels. But then I reasoned that I would happily pay the same for a movie that would entertain for roughly the same time or a dessert in a restaurant that would be gone in minutes. And actually, having got to the end, it benefits from being lean: what would be the point of 50% more than just padding?
The book itself continues in much the same vein as the opening chapter: if you enjoy the hook, you're likely to enjoy the rest. There's a tension and claustrophobia that echoes the likes of Aliens and gritty women facing tough moral choices. It's not exactly an original plot but it is done effectively.
If I had any criticism, it could do with a little more world-building: the generic, monolithic "Company" has been done many times and could do with a little extra character. Also, the secondary characters could perhaps do with a touch more fleshing out if only so that their fates are felt more keenly. But these are small criticisms: it's an effective thriller and I'm glad j gave it a go.
May 1, 2022
Right into action, love the gripping start of the story. While the plot is amazingly intriguing from sci fi perspective, the author adds in a psychological and probably social dimension to it, that takes the whole story to another level. On personal view, female sci fi writers bring a different and more interesting take onto their novels, Mz Elliott excelled at doing that.
Despite the extensive back stories about some characters and Bryn, personally, I would have loved more backgrounds. It might be that sophisticated simplicity that Mz Elliott build her lines or the dysfunction among the group that makes feel so.
Amazing work from Mz Elliott , will wait for the next one for sure
Despite the extensive back stories about some characters and Bryn, personally, I would have loved more backgrounds. It might be that sophisticated simplicity that Mz Elliott build her lines or the dysfunction among the group that makes feel so.
Amazing work from Mz Elliott , will wait for the next one for sure
February 2, 2022
Loved it!
After Io was engaging and suspenseful. It turned out to be a quick read because I had a hard time putting it down. The detail and style make it easy for readers to immerse themselves. I continue to be impressed with the work of this new author and can’t wait for subsequent books in the Far Light Series.
After Io was engaging and suspenseful. It turned out to be a quick read because I had a hard time putting it down. The detail and style make it easy for readers to immerse themselves. I continue to be impressed with the work of this new author and can’t wait for subsequent books in the Far Light Series.
February 4, 2022
I read this book in two sittings.
Yes, it's short, but it's also riveting.
You know Bryn killed her captain, but you don't know why. Or how. (not a spoiler, you learn this in the first sentence)
The setting is vital to the story, but the characters are what makes it a page-turner.
I can't wait for the next book.
Yes, it's short, but it's also riveting.
You know Bryn killed her captain, but you don't know why. Or how. (not a spoiler, you learn this in the first sentence)
The setting is vital to the story, but the characters are what makes it a page-turner.
I can't wait for the next book.
October 29, 2022
Excited for more in this series
Easy, quick read. Felt like a long short story. Futuristic but a human story line that made it easy to follow. Don't have to be a fan of science fiction to enjoy the suspense of this story. Recommend to anyone who likes suspense and mystery. Strong female characters. Interested to see where this story goes in future books in this series.
Easy, quick read. Felt like a long short story. Futuristic but a human story line that made it easy to follow. Don't have to be a fan of science fiction to enjoy the suspense of this story. Recommend to anyone who likes suspense and mystery. Strong female characters. Interested to see where this story goes in future books in this series.
April 7, 2022
This was such a good sci-fi story, packed with tension. A simple mining expedition on Io goes downhill, and very bad things happen! Very cool. I like the style, and now I’m interested in Elliott Wink’s other works!
January 16, 2023
This story was amazing, and I read the sequel as well, I have to say, I wish I could forget it and reread it all over again. So far, my favorite Science fiction thus far. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good space mystery.
February 12, 2022
A tight and exciting little book.
February 15, 2022
Fantastic book! The only thing I didn’t like was the cliff hanger ending but what a ending!
July 4, 2022
Oh wow!
Such a great book! Not a long read, one you can go cover to cover with in an afternoon and then walk away feeling changed. I can't wait to get the next one!
Such a great book! Not a long read, one you can go cover to cover with in an afternoon and then walk away feeling changed. I can't wait to get the next one!
April 11, 2022
I really enjoyed the story and how it shifted perspectives between the 2 main characters. It started with an interesting event that made you want to know how it happened. Great writing about personal choices and made me wonder how I would respond in a similar situation. Good futuristic story about space travel and working in space. Can’t wait for the sequel.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews