On a space station where gravity is a daily battle, chronically ill inventor Aznan and his estranged ex-best friend Kairo must reunite to survive a deadly tech competition held at a circus, as contestants begin to die under suspicious circumstances. Blending high-stakes mystery with nuanced explorations of disability, neurodivergence, and friendship, the story delivers a tense, emotionally rich narrative set in a vividly realized sci-fi world.

Reader Review Summary

Set on a space station, the story follows Aznan, a chronically ill high school dropout with a condition that is aggravated by gravity, as he aims to win a high-stakes technology competition. The event is held at the station’s circus and judged by industry leaders, offering a chance at fame and a future at a prestigious university. Aznan must team up with his estranged ex-best friend Kairo, now an aerialist in the circus, to have a shot at victory. The competition takes a dark turn when rival teams begin dying under suspicious circumstances, leading to suspicions of sabotage and murder. As the body count rises and the showcase approaches, Aznan and Kairo are forced to investigate the deaths themselves, risking their own lives in the process.

Readers highlighted several aspects they appreciated, including the detailed worldbuilding, such as the impact of gravity on Aznan’s disability and the continuous activity on the space station due to the absence of a day-night cycle. The dual point of view narrative, alternating between Aznan and Kairo, was noted for providing insight into both characters’ perspectives, especially during moments of miscommunication. The representation of chronic illness, ADHD, and autism was frequently mentioned as realistic and meaningful, with readers noting that the experiences of the protagonists resonated with their own. The pacing and tension, particularly in the latter half of the book, were described as gripping, with readers invested in the characters’ arcs and the unfolding mystery.

Based on the available reviews, there were no significant criticisms or negative feedback highlighted by readers. The ratings were consistently high, and comments focused on positive aspects such as character development, representation, and plot engagement. No specific elements were mentioned as lacking or detracting from the reading experience.

The book is classified as Young Adult, Science Fiction, and Queer, and is authored by JJ Clapton. It is scheduled for publication on February 1, 2025, and has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 10 readers, with 7 full reviews submitted. The narrative explores themes of friendship, self-worth, and perseverance, and includes a murder mystery element intertwined with a technology competition. The author’s note and acknowledgements at the end provide additional context on character development.