I tried to read this book like 3 times but I ended up dnf'ing it. Probably wasn't my cup of tea. The characters were not likable, the world building was poor. Overall I didn't liked it.

Frontier, the debut novel by Grace Curtis, is a captivating exploration of universe building and an absolute page turner. Told from mutliple perspectives, our main character is present throughout, and is called many names: Stowaway, Courier, Tramp, Homeless Woman, Traveller, Guest. Everyone's perspective shows not only what they focus in on about our protagonist, but also where she is on her journey to find her person—to return to the one she loves.

One of the most expertly done aspects of this novel was the way it used other characters to tell her story. Not everyone is likeable but everyone is intriguing, everyone is interesting. I came to care for the side characters who only make a small indentation on the story: a child in need of insulin; a woman in need of resolution to stories—her own and one from a comic book; a boy who learned some hard truths about his faith. These people who made up a sliver of the Earth population showed so much about how the world runs, who's in charge, and why, without ever feeling heavy handed.

In addition to this wonderful way to portray our protagonist, the style of perspective switches lent itself to another key part of what I believe makes the world (universe) building so strong: the empty spaces. Not everything is explained. A lot is, but characters who live on Earth in the 2800s wouldn't comment on what makes it different from our current time, they'd only comment on what's unique about the events happening in their own time. Mostly, this means comments about our protagonist, but there are other things happening too. Other people with motivations and rich histories and backstories and lives. This enriched the world beyond what it would have been had we only seen it through the protagonist's eyes.

Woven into the perspective shifts we also get glimpses at galactic news, scholarly articles, book excerpts, and other small bites of information that help expand our understanding of life on Earth and beyond. I loved the idea that even after a full planet evacuation, some stubborn people would remain. And the religion that spouted among those who stayed—The Latter Day Saints of Gaia—made absolute sense. The Saints have a belief in climate change as humanity's ultimate punishment, and view those who left and anyone who uses space-like technology a heathen and a sinner. When the climate becomes impossible to ignore, it tracks that humans would turn it into a religion. Especially humans living under the thumb of the High Sheriff of New Destiny and his militaristic, power hungry deputy, Seawall.

Frontier is a must read for those who enjoy books about space, but also about Earth: saving it, and also recognizing the beauty that already exists. I know I'll be recommending this book to many friends, and will continue to read future novels by Grace Curtis.

Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for access to an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

I very nearly DNF about 35-40% of the way through this, but I'm pretty glad I didn't! The first thalf was a bit slow and I felt lacking in information on this "mysterious strange" which I know is the point but it just felt like I couldn't connect!

But the 2nd half of the book did make up with for this with some fantastic world building and storyline.

All in all I enjoyed it in the end but it was a slog to get there!

A science fiction novel set on a desolate future Earth. Elements of a old style western, brutal sheriffs and general lawlessness combined with intricate world building.

If you are a fan the Wayfarers series by Becky Chambers, then this is a book I'd reccomend reading. The story (set on Earth in the far future) follows a lone traveller from space who is looking for her lost love. Curtis creates a tangible world for the reader to fall into that will have you hooked from the first page. Although some sections left me a little confused, I found the story is gripping, fun and well paced. If a queer, adventurous, romance *set in space* is what you're after... then look no further!

Frontier by Grace Curtis.

Thank you Netgallery and Hodder & Stoughton for an arc for an unbiased review.

This book was one that I blinked and suddenly realised I was 40% of the way though without realising it, and desperate to continue reading. So I had a quick refreshment break, before delving back in, and all too soon this was ending.

We don't get a name for our main protagonist until close to the end, although she is named Darling at one point, albeit because her name isn't forthcoming. So for a while, I had Darling associated with her until her real name emerged.
This Sci-Fi book is very much a dystopian type, with ecosystems in collapse. The landscapes are obviously desolate, with a lawlessness in many areas, but some that are ruled by ruthless Sheriffs or law enforcement.

Darling has to navigate this inhospitable and dangerous world, to find her love. Along the way, we meet a number of different characters. Some in turn become more important than others. We get glimpses into things that on the surface appear one way, but the reality is vastly different.

There was a surprising amount of humour scattered throughout the book, and I personally was grateful for it, as it helped eliminate some of the heaviness that might have occurred otherwise.
It wasn't a book that you could skim through. Because it was fast paced, running through a number of different locations and characters, you need to take time to read it carefully. I didn't mind that at all, but it could detract for some readers. Having said all that, some little things that you might not have thought much of become pretty important towards the end as it all begins to slot together.

I'd love to see another book in this world. The ending could certainly allow for it should the author so wish. I'm unsure if they've plans to continue with it, but I would definitely read it should they decide to.

A book I've already recommended to others, and would buy for myself and gift to others.

5/5 stars 🌟

I absolutely adored Frontier - it's rare that a book of two halves is equally wonderful in both, but I was utterly engrossed right the way through. I loved the Western-styled atmosphere of the first half, and the unspooling story (with grand world-building) of the second, once we learn more about the Stranger's identity.
I would happily read more books set in this universe - especially ones focussing on some of the little pockets of the world we fleetingly visit during the length of Frontier.
Frontier strikes a wonderful balance between an exciting, adventurous plot and a hopeful and moving emotional core. Whether handling emotion or action, Frontier remains hugely engaging throughout.
I'm really keen to see what Grace Curtis writes next.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.