A chronically ill high school dropout and a circus performer team up to compete in a tech competition on a space station, where competitors start turning up dead. The novel skillfully weaves themes of disability, friendship, and competition in a unique sci-fi setting, with realistic portrayals of chronic illness, ADHD, and autism.

Reader Review Summary

"A Stage Over Ruthless Stars" by JJ Clapton is a captivating and immersive young adult science fiction novel that expertly blends a thrilling murder mystery with poignant explorations of disability, neurodivergence, and the enduring bonds of friendship.

Set on a vibrant space station, the story follows Aznan, a chronically ill high school dropout with dreams of becoming a famous inventor, and his former best friend Kairo, a talented aerialist in the station's circus. When a massive tech competition offers Aznan a chance to secure his future, he must reunite with Kairo and confront the fractures in their friendship. However, the stakes escalate as competitors begin turning up dead, and the two friends find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes murder investigation amidst the glittering spectacle of the Grand Showcase.

Clapton's worldbuilding is nothing short of exceptional, crafting a richly detailed and fully realized setting that immerses readers in the intricacies of life on a space station. From the intricate consideration of how gravity affects Aznan's disability to the seamless integration of space-inspired idioms, every aspect of the novel's universe feels meticulously thought out and vividly realized.

The character development in "A Stage Over Ruthless Stars" is a particular highlight, with Aznan and Kairo emerging as complex, multifaceted protagonists whose struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. Clapton's sensitive and nuanced portrayal of Aznan's chronic illness, ADHD, and Kairo's autism is both refreshingly authentic and profoundly empowering. Readers will undoubtedly find themselves deeply invested in these characters' journeys, as they navigate the challenges of self-worth, friendship, and finding their place in a world that often fails to accommodate their needs.

The novel's representation of disability and neurodivergence is particularly noteworthy, seamlessly weaving these experiences into the fabric of the story without reducing the characters to mere stereotypes or caricatures. From Aznan's emotional dysregulation to Kairo's sensory sensitivities, Clapton's writing captures the nuances of these experiences with remarkable authenticity, offering readers a powerful and validating mirror for their own lived realities.

Beyond its character-driven strengths, "A Stage Over Ruthless Stars" also delivers a taut and suspenseful plot that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The escalating body count and the ever-present threat of sabotage infuse the narrative with a palpable sense of danger, heightening the stakes and escalating the tension with each masterfully paced chapter. Clapton's deft handling of the mystery elements, coupled with the high-stakes competition storyline, creates a page-turning reading experience that will leave readers breathlessly anticipating the next twist or revelation.

Ultimately, "A Stage Over Ruthless Stars" is a triumphant debut that showcases Clapton's remarkable talent as a storyteller. With its richly imagined world, compelling characters, and seamless blending of genre elements, this novel is poised to captivate readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether drawn in by the sci-fi spectacle, the deeply resonant themes of friendship and self-acceptance, or the gripping murder mystery at its core, readers are sure to find themselves thoroughly enthralled by this unforgettable tale of resilience, determination, and the unbreakable bonds that transcend even the vastness of space itself.