Book Review: Nova (Spectre War Book 1) by Margaret Fortune
There’s something incredibly magnetic about science fiction that delves into the complexities of identity and self-discovery, and Nova by Margaret Fortune embodies this beautifully. The moment I stumbled upon this engaging debut, I was captivated—not just by its premise of a teenage girl turned bomb, but by the profound themes that mirror our own struggles in understanding who we are beneath societal expectations.
Nova follows Lia Johansen, a sixteen-year-old girl grappling with the powerful remnants of her past and the explosive ticking clock inside her head. Picture this: she’s among hundreds of refugees aboard the New Sol space station, carrying the weight of her purpose and a countdown to an uncertain climax. The tension is palpable, and Fortune expertly weaves a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat, raising questions about free will, acceptance, and the struggle of reconciling one’s identity with the roles society imposes.
One of the strengths of this novel is its character development, particularly Lia’s journey from a burdensome fate to the discovery of her own agency. Lia is neither a stereotypical damsel nor a one-dimensional hero; she’s layered, funny, and relatable. In her awkward moments and her encounters with friends and foes alike, I found myself cheering for her triumphs and feeling the weight of her burdens. The romance, too, while veering into familiar territory occasionally, feels genuine and mature, showcasing the nuanced relationships that come from shared struggles.
Fortune’s writing style strikes a wonderful balance—it’s vivid enough to paint the futuristic landscape while still allowing for introspective moments that resonate emotionally. There were times the pacing felt uneven; while some scenes swept me away, others hung a little too long on solitary moments. Yet, within that ebb and flow lies the essence of Nova: it captures the tumultuous nature of teenage life, full of highs and lows that mirror Lia’s internal conflict.
Memorable quotes, like the reminder that “just like you could warm your hands by a fire, you could warm your soul by his smiles,” linger with a bittersweet joy. It’s like Fortune knows how to wrap profound truths in simple imagery, making even the most complex emotions feel accessible.
While I understand that Nova is aimed at a young adult audience, its themes have a universal appeal that transcends age boundaries. Readers who appreciate sci-fi grounded in emotional depth will find a lot to love here. The twists and turns in the plot keep you engaged right to the last page, and while it may not redefine the genre, it certainly paves the way for a promising sequel.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Nova to anyone looking for an exciting adventure that doesn’t shy away from exploring the deeper questions of life, identity, and belonging. Margaret Fortune has crafted a vivid world with memorable characters, and I, for one, can’t wait to see where her imagination takes us next in the Spectre War series. Happy reading!
You can find Nova (Spectre War Book 1) here >>