Book Review: Titan of the Stars by E.K. Johnston
Every so often, a book lands in my lap that feels like it was written just for me. Titan of the Stars by E.K. Johnston is one of those gems. When I came across it on NetGalley and saw its sci-fi and horror blend aboard a spaceship headed to Mars, I immediately felt my excitement ignite. And let me tell you, this book has quickly become my favorite read of 2025!
At its heart, Titan of the Stars is a masterful exploration of ambition, identity, and the shadows of the past—all set in the claustrophobic confines of a spaceship. The protagonist, Celeste Sparrow, is an engineer aboard the groundbreaking ship, Titan, designed for a lightning-fast journey to Mars. As a Rupt kid, part of a group of survivors of a devastating earthquake, Celeste’s journey from Earth is not just about space travel. It represents her escape from a life that constantly scrutinizes her survival. Her optimism is palpable, and as she dreams of a fresh start on Mars, I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
Opposite her is Dominic, the privileged son of one of Titan’s co-creators. Though he lacks the emotional scars of Celeste, his journey is equally compelling. Dominic’s desire to step out of his parents’ shadow while grappling with his identity as a Rupt kid, albeit raised in comfort, adds a rich layer of intrigue to the narrative. E.K. Johnston captures their intertwined fates beautifully, showcasing the stark contrasts between class and opportunity, evoking a sense of urgency against a backdrop of cosmic horror.
What truly sets this book apart is its cinematographic quality. The suspense escalates masterfully as Celeste and Dominic uncover a chilling secret onboard—a museum filled with ancient alien specimens. I was completely captivated during the initial unveiling scene. The blend of excitement and dread was tangible; it felt as if I was onboard the Titan myself. Johnston’s vivid imagery and pacing kept me on the edge of my seat, perfectly balancing moments of thrill with deeper thematic explorations.
Johnston’s writing style is crisp but evocative, with every line carrying weight. The dialogue flows naturally, making the characters relatable and their struggles palpable. The societal commentary—timely and relevant—was woven skillfully through their perspectives, resonating with my thoughts and emotions. I particularly loved when Celeste mused about her longing for freedom, "I want to exist outside their definitions." It struck a chord, making me reflect on the nature of identity in a world that often tries to define us.
If I had to voice a complaint, it would solely be that I was left wanting more. The narrative wraps up without a cliffhanger, yet the open-ended nature suggests that E.K. Johnston could certainly return to these characters. I would gladly dive back into this universe time and time again!
Overall, Titan of the Stars is a thrilling ride that I highly recommend for fans of sci-fi and horror alike. If you’re drawn to stories of survival, identity, and the mysteries of the unknown, this book will change the way you look at space travel—and perhaps even your own reality. It’s a poignant reminder of the complexities of human life amid the void of space. If you get your hands on a copy, grab it quickly—I promise you won’t regret it!
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