Praise
The Golden Rule masterfully builds its world and seamlessly blends scientific elements with humanistic themes, highlighting the settlers' fight to keep hope alive in a difficult new environment. Debbie Hightower effectively uses the setting of Proxima Centauri B, a planet divided into perpetually lit and dark sides, to explore themes of isolation, community, and the resiliance of the human spirit. The prose is vivid, filled with detailed descriptions of the alien landscape and the settlers' technological advancement. The Golden Rule continues and deepens the series' world-building. With its blend of suspense, mystery, and speculative technology, this book offers a compelling look at the possibilities of human life beyond Earth, making it a significant addition to the Raven's Record series. Science fiction fans won't want to miss this one, and I had no problems following the story even though I haven't read the previous books.
Love You To the Moon and Back masterfully weaves together intergalactic adventure, suspense, and intense personal conflicts, creating a gripping tale that’s hard to put down. The characters are richly layered and captivating, each propelled by distinct motives that make their paths both authentic and emotionally resonant. Beyond the thrilling action and mysteries, the author delves into powerful themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the essence of humanity. An absolute must-read!
Real Talk on Space and Sacrifices : This book dives deep into what it really takes to push the boundaries of space exploration, and let me tell you, it's no walk in the park. It's raw and real, showing just how much personal stuff gets shoved to the back burner when you're trying to send humanity to another star system. The bits where the crew wrestles with their own life choices while trying to keep the project afloat? Hit me right in the feels. And the smart-mouthed AI adds just the right amount of sass to keep things interesting.
It's not just about the tech or the space ships, it's about the people behind them and their messy, complicated lives. Made me think about what I’d be willing to give up for a shot at something big. Wrapping up, it left me satisfied but also a bit reflective on the high cost of high stakes. Would recommend if you like your sci-fi with a side of human drama and a sprinkle of cheeky robot banter.
Debbie Hightower has delivered a chilling and electrifying sci-fi epic in American Survivor. The book wastes no time diving into a world-shattering event—a sudden alien incursion that leaves the United States a smoking crater. What sets this novel apart isn't just the devastation, but the intricate blend of hard science, military strategy, and deeply personal survival. Raven Munoz, our unexpected heroine, emerges from the ashes not just as a witness, but as a symbol of truth, resilience, and fire-forged purpose.
Hightower weaves layers of conspiracy, futuristic science, and spiritual reckoning into a seamless narrative. From Specialist Khan’s frantic NORAD alert to the haunting burn unit scenes in Regina, each chapter pulses with urgency. The blend of factual science (FTL travel, interstellar geopolitics) and heartfelt storytelling makes this feel less like fiction and more like a coded prophecy for the future of humanity. There are echoes of The Day After Tomorrow, Contact, and Battlestar Galactica all rolled into one.
If you love your sci-fi cerebral, terrifyingly relevant, and laced with real emotion, American Survivor is a must-read. Raven Munoz may have survived the initial apocalypse—but her real war is just beginning. Highly recommended for fans of smart, high-stakes science fiction.