A non-binary, autistic pie blogger in a small town witnesses a UFO explosion and embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about the extraterrestrial presence, aided by a supportive bartender. As they investigate the alien invasion, a cozy sci-fi adventure unfolds, blending themes of found family, queer romance, and self-discovery amidst a surreal and eerie backdrop.

Reader Review Summary

Key Lime Sky by Al Hess is a delightfully charming and imaginative sci-fi novel that deftly blends elements of cozy mystery, quirky romance, and alien invasion thriller. From the very first page, readers are swept into the eccentric world of Denver Bryant, a non-binary autistic pie blogger whose passion for pastries takes an out-of-this-world turn.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its vivid and lovable protagonist, Denver. Their portrayal as an autistic, non-binary individual is handled with remarkable authenticity and sensitivity, allowing readers to deeply connect with Denver's experiences, mannerisms, and thought processes. Hess's writing deftly captures the nuances of neurodivergence, never resorting to caricatures or stereotypes. We see Denver's struggles with social interactions, sensory overload, and the desire to belong, all rendered with empathy and understanding. Their blunt honesty and unfiltered observations often result in both humorous and poignant moments, endearing them to readers.

The novel's premise – a UFO exploding over the small town of Muddy Gap, leaving Denver as the only witness – is equal parts quirky and intriguing. As strange phenomena begin to manifest, and townsfolk start acting peculiarly, Denver's determination to uncover the truth propels the narrative forward. The inclusion of Ezra, a charming bartender who becomes Denver's ally and romantic interest, adds warmth and depth to the story. Their blossoming relationship is depicted with tenderness and care, a beautiful exploration of neurodivergent love and acceptance.

Hess excels at creating a cozy, almost nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of classic sci-fi shows like The X-Files or The Twilight Zone. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between lighthearted whimsy and genuine suspense, keeping readers engaged and invested in the mystery unfolding. The author's talent for world-building is evident in the vividly realized town of Muddy Gap and its eccentric residents.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its representation and diversity. In addition to the non-binary and autistic protagonist, Hess populates the story with a vibrant cast of LGBTQ+ characters, including a trans woman and a plus-sized Latino love interest. Their identities are seamlessly woven into the narrative, never feeling tokenistic or forced. Key Lime Sky celebrates and normalizes diverse experiences, offering much-needed representation in the sci-fi genre.

The book's climax is a masterful blend of surreal imagery, suspense, and heart-warming character moments. As the alien presence escalates and reality itself begins to unravel, Denver's journey becomes one of self-discovery and acceptance, both personally and within their newfound community. The resolution is deeply satisfying, leaving readers with a sense of hope and optimism.

Overall, Key Lime Sky is a delightful and genre-bending novel that will appeal to readers seeking a fresh, diverse, and heartwarming take on sci-fi. Hess's prose is engaging, the characters are endearing, and the themes of belonging, identity, and found family resonate profoundly. With its perfect balance of cozy and creepy, humor and poignancy, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers' hearts and minds.