Things get complicated when the governments of Earth and Mars intercede, thanks in part to Aiden’s lover Skye Landen and her colleague, Elgin Woo. With the future of humanity riding on his discoveries, Aiden must uncover this new planet’s many secrets. Some readers will be distracted by Jeffrey’s verbosity and word-choice--in one scene, “tall, muscular clouds” create “a moody tapestry of dancing velvet light”--interruptions that inflate Aiden’s adventure to fifty long chapters. At other times these descriptions are where the novel shines: Each of the worlds Jeffrey depicts--the burning deserts of the Amazon Basin, the moon’s populous Luna colony, the lush and mysterious Silvanus--are so vividly detailed that sympathetic readers will feel transported.
Simultaneously a critique of twenty-first-century politics as well as a hopeful vision for the future, Through a Forest of Stars will capture readers’ imaginations thanks to its blend of classic science-fiction tropes, New Age elements, and compelling characters. SF series readers will be eager for the next installment.
Takeaway: Sci-fi fans won’t regret diving into the first volume of Jeffrey’s detailed, imaginative epic of humanity’s interstellar future.
Great for fans of: James S.A. Corey; Aer-ki Jyr’s Star Force series.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: B-
"Reminiscent of the likes of Arthur C. Clarke, Through a Forest of Stars, takes the reader on a journey into the future based on sound scientific principles. . . The book is fascinating and holds the reader's interest . . . The cosmic politics involved in the competing interests for the planet are well developed and complex and add urgency to the story. . . If you love space fiction, especially with a good dose of science in it, this book is well worth reading.”
“David Jeffrey has created a science fiction fan’s dream in Through a Forest of Stars, with multiple storylines going on; some great world building; and interesting characters that you find yourself caring about and rooting for. And the good news is, this is the first book in the series, with the second book, Sun Wolf, already out.”
"David C. Jeffrey’s stellar debut novel is grand-scale science fiction adventure with a thematically profound Gaiaist bent. Science fiction readers will savor this read. The scientific speculation is solid, the pacing relentless, and the earth-centered philosophy powerful. The author’s social commentary is potent, similar to post-apocalyptic classics like Nevil Shute’s On the Beach (1957) and Walter M. Miller, Jr.’s A Canticle for Leibowitz (1959). This is the first installment in Jeffrey’s Space Unbound saga, and the author leaves numerous tantalizing plot threads dangling at novel’s end. Readers are sure to enjoy this well-written, multi-layered, impactful science fiction adventure.” — BlueInk Review (STARRED REVIEW)
“Political intrigue and a fascinating alien world combine to make for a rousing speculative adventure.
The scope of Through a Forest of Stars is vast. It’s an epic story that encompasses multiple worlds, a wide range of characters, a desperate and dying Earth, and plenty of space exploration. . . .
One thing that stands out in this novel is the science. The author, David C. Jeffrey, clearly knows what he’s talking about when it comes to astronomy, biology, physics, and future technologies. The world built in this novel feels authentic. . . .
Through A Forest of Stars is a little bit of an adventure, a little bit post-apocalyptic, a little bit of political intrigue, and a whole lot of fun. The careful balance of these elements creates a monumental journey that sweeps readers along for a great ride.” — By Joelene Pynnonen for Independent Book Review
“David C. Jeffrey’s inventive, intricate plots and world creation in THROUGH A FOREST OF STARS are definitely worth exploration in this first series volume, as the characters and plots are both complex and fascinating.” — Kathleen Kenney Peterson for IndieReader
5 Stars. “One of the features which I found particularly impressive about this piece was the author’s ability to balance the classic approach to science fiction with the fast hook appeal of the modern blockbuster, weaving an intricate storyline of clever concepts and relevant issues alongside dynamic, action-packed scenes and high-octane thrills.”
“In debut author Jeffrey’s SF series starter, war is brewing as a corporate space explorer makes extraordinary discoveries on a newly discovered, Earth-like planet. . . brisk, urgent pacing . . . an action-packed climax . . . Polished environmentalist SF . . . thrills and wonder.”
5 Stars. “Through a Forest of Stars is a thought-provoking and introspective take on space exploration that instantly pulls you in with a riveting story and some wonderfully imaginative worldbuilding … Sci-fi fans should adore Through a Forest of Stars. I did, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.”
“An original and thrilling space drama. Channeling endearing humanoid-robot relationships from ‘Star Wars,’ future tech from ‘The Expanse,’ and philosophical questions about cosmic exploration and our relationship with nature that would make Asimov and Heinlein tip their caps, this book is far more than sci-fi pulp. Jeffrey is able to take classic sci-fi storylines and give them each a deep breath of original life. The pacing is kept high, and Jeffrey knows how to ramp up adrenaline at the turn of a page. For those who love real science in their science fiction, this book will not disappoint. Through a Forest of Stars is polished, well-paced, unpredictable, and thrilling, making it an excellent launching point for Jeffrey’s sprawling new series.” -- Self-Publishing Review
