Title: Obsidio
Author: Amie Kaufman
First published March 13, 2018
618 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780553499193 (ISBN10: 055349919X)
Rating: 4.47
Overview
Following their narrow escape from Heimdall station, Kady, Ezra, Hanna, and Nik find themselves on a container ship with 2,000 refugees, low on resources, and with the jump station destroyed. With no better option, they decide to return to Kerenza, but what they find there is beyond their worst nightmares.
Meanwhile, Asha, Kady’s cousin and a member of Kerenza’s underground resistance, is reunited with Rhys, an old flame from her past. However, Rhys is now on the opposite side of the conflict, and their love is put to the ultimate test.
As time ticks away, a final battle looms, and the heroes must fight on both land and in space. The stakes have never been higher, and the price of victory may be too high to bear.
About the Author
Amie Kaufman is an accomplished author of young adult fiction, with numerous bestsellers under her belt. Her work has garnered multiple awards, and is set to be published in over 30 countries.
It’s no surprise that her writing has attracted the attention of filmmakers and TV producers. Amie grew up in both Australia and Ireland, and holds degrees in history, literature, law, and conflict resolution.
She currently resides in Melbourne with her husband, daughter, and rescue dog, surrounded by an impressive personal library. In addition to her successful writing career, Amie also hosts two podcasts: “Amie Kaufman on Writing” and “Pub Dates.” Stay up-to-date on her latest projects, upcoming book releases, and giveaway opportunities by subscribing to her newsletter.
Editoral Review
Obsidio by Amie Kaufman is the third and final installment in the bestselling Illuminae Files trilogy. The series, a collaboration between Kaufman and Jay Kristoff, is a thrilling example of the young adult sci-fi genre, combining futuristic technology, intergalactic warfare, and a sweet romance that readers of all ages will enjoy.
Obsidio continues the story where Gemina left off, following the crew of the Jump Station Heimdall and the survivors of the invasion on Kerenza IV as they band together to overthrow Beitech, the interstellar corporation responsible for their misfortune. The story is told through a variety of media including transcripts, journal entries, and surveillance footage, making it feel like a real-life mission log.
The main characters of Obsidio are Kady Grant, Ezra Mason, Hanna Donnelly, Nik Malikov, AIDAN, and Asha Grant, who were introduced in the previous books. Despite their diverse backgrounds and personalities, they must work together to save themselves and their loved ones.
Kaufman’s writing brings the characters to life in the reader’s mind, inducing real emotional investment in their ultimate fate.
One of the book’s strengths is its sci-fi world-building, which is fully realized and well-executed.
From the hyperspace gates to unique alien species, the Illuminae Files universe is thoroughly imagined and consistently engaging. The pacing of the book is also noteworthy, with the tension and suspense building to a perfectly timed climax.
One weakness of the book is that it can be difficult to keep track of all the characters and their relationships, especially for those who have not read the previous two books. Some crucial plot points might also feel predictable to seasoned sci-fi readers.
The themes explored in Obsidio, like the cost of war, the importance of family, and the nature of forgiveness, are both timely and timeless. In today’s world, where tensions between nations and political divides are at an all-time high, the book’s messages are especially poignant.
Overall, Obsidio is a gripping conclusion to an already stunning series. Kaufman delivers a captivating story that will keep readers turning pages late into the night.
Those who enjoy sci-fi or YA literature should not hesitate to pick this book up.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars.
