First ARC reader review:  Five Stars on Goodreads

“Anexena” was exactly the kind of science fiction I enjoy, especially when it comes to its unusual structure. The book is divided into five seemingly unrelated stories, each following its own characters, setting, and conflict. Then comes Part Six, where everything starts coming together—and that’s where the real fun begins. Suddenly, characters and events from those separate stories connect in unexpected ways, with some really cool twists and revelations that made the payoff especially satisfying.

My personal favorites were the second and fifth stories, but I enjoyed all of them and felt that each played an important role in establishing the world and setting up the larger picture. I’ve already read “A Question of Evil”, so it was also fun to recognize some of the connections between the two books and see familiar pieces of this universe.

I also really enjoy Nicholas Samuel Stember’s writing style. There is something almost old-fashioned about the science fiction here, in the best possible way. It reminded me at times of the kind of sci-fi I associate with authors like Harry Harrison and Clifford D. Simak—adventure, strange worlds and ideas, mysteries, and that classic sense of wondering where the story is going to take you next.

One recommendation for future readers: pay attention to the main characters in every story. Even when a storyline seems completely separate from everything else, remember the people you’re meeting along the way. Trust me—it becomes very rewarding once the pieces start falling into place.

Overall, “Anexena” was a clever and entertaining sci-fi adventure with a structure I absolutely loved, plenty of surprises, and some very satisfying connections. Definitely 5 stars from me, and an easy recommendation for readers who enjoy classic-style science fiction, interconnected stories, and watching a much bigger picture reveal itself.

I received an ARC of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.

Anexena will be advertised on numerous marketing platforms included AllAuthor, Shout my Book, AuthorsXP and more, as well as all my social media platforms.