MINRS

A group of brave colonists travel to Perses, the solar system’s newest planetoid, to mine for materials to replace the Earth’s depleted resources.

Christopher Nichols is one of about 20 children who accompany their parents on the Great Mission to save Earth. It is six years in, and farmers have used terraforming equipment to allow for food production. Miners have excavated precious minerals, and managers are readying the first shipment of resources back to Earth. But even with this success, the impending blackout, which will cut off all communication with Earth for two months, has everyone nervous. When invaders attack, killing all but a few kids, it is up to Christopher and his headstrong friend Elena to find a way to stay safe in the underground mines until they can signal for help. But injuries, infighting among the survivors, and the discovery of a terrible secret further complicate their mission. Empty dialogue, Christopher’s stiff narration, and a wandering plot rob this promising setup of tension. Two-dimensional characters and significant plot holes further keep this promising adventure off track. And while the closing pages suggest at least one sequel, the lackluster writing makes this series unlikely to attract many followers.

Flawed in almost every way.