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If All the Stars Go Dark
An intergalactic enemies to lovers romance where tensions are high but the stakes are higher.
When eighteen-year-old Keller Hartman is recruited into the Legion’s most prestigious galactic unit, it’s a dream come true. He's worked hard for this. He’s ready to prove himself. The problem? His new partner—the beautiful, no-nonsense pilot Lament Bringer—wants nothing to do with him.
Forced to work together under Legion orders, Keller and Lament team up with a motley crew of specialists to investigate a mysterious visionary who can predict catastrophes. As they begin to peel back layers, however, they realize there's more to the story than meets the eye. With threats mounting and secrets unfolding, Keller and Lament will need to trust one another in order to stop the dangers at play. But with trust comes other feelings—ones neither of them is prepared for.
With the fate of the universe hanging in the balance, the only thing worse than failing their mission might just be losing each other.
When eighteen-year-old Keller Hartman is recruited into the Legion’s most prestigious galactic unit, it’s a dream come true. He's worked hard for this. He’s ready to prove himself. The problem? His new partner—the beautiful, no-nonsense pilot Lament Bringer—wants nothing to do with him.
Forced to work together under Legion orders, Keller and Lament team up with a motley crew of specialists to investigate a mysterious visionary who can predict catastrophes. As they begin to peel back layers, however, they realize there's more to the story than meets the eye. With threats mounting and secrets unfolding, Keller and Lament will need to trust one another in order to stop the dangers at play. But with trust comes other feelings—ones neither of them is prepared for.
With the fate of the universe hanging in the balance, the only thing worse than failing their mission might just be losing each other.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2026
63 people are currently reading
10107 people want to read
About the author
S.G. Prince
8 books467 followersI’m a character-driven SFF author who writes about magic, found family and love. Enemies to lovers is my trope. Romance is my favorite genre to read, though I'm trying to branch out. I was born in Ohio, spent a few childhood years in Missouri, grew up in Florida, and have since lived in Fort Worth, Seattle, San Francisco and now the East Bay. I bake sourdough on Wednesdays and dessert on Fridays. I’m a hobby photographer. I have two distinct writing styles, one serious (adult), one goofy (YA), which basically reflects who I am as a person. My favorite words are always, surrender and headlong.
To stay up to date on book news and recommendations, you can follow me here on Goodreads.
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Instagram: @sgprince.books
To stay up to date on book news and recommendations, you can follow me here on Goodreads.
For information on releases, appearances, ARCs, giveaways, and exclusive content, sign up for my newsletter at sgprince.com.
Instagram: @sgprince.books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews
February 10, 2026
Beautiful storytelling, very appealing and interesting characters, and a funny found family.
If it weren't for the interplanetary mystery, which was totally transparent to me, it would have been an absolutely perfect book. However, it is YA, so it may not be so transparent for teenagers?
I'm a little torn when it comes to rating this book. But I'll just go with the fact that I had a really good time reading it, and even though there wasn't much romance (just two kisses and a scene that fades to black, so you don't know how much really happened), the story is really great. The plot is something new, and the combination of the two main characters with the supporting characters is just awesome.
The back and forth and the emotional turmoil between Keller and Lament is also delightful.
Shortly before the end, I almost died, and then I cried like a baby. So yes, I love this book.
Most people have this assumption that to become an orphan, both of your parents must be dead. In truth, you can be an orphan with a living, breathing mom or dad, as long as they don’t want you. 🥺🥺🥺
… just my luck, really, finally making it into my dream slot in the Legion only to be stuck with an absolute lemon of a partner. 🤭🤭🤭
I’m not usually a dessert-first kind of guy, but I’m stranded on a foreign planet, and if I’m going to die here, I’d like it to be in brownie-induced bliss. ☺️
Lament shakes his head and gently touches my lower back, urging me through the common room. I’m not even sure he realizes what he’s done, but my legs turn to jelly, a little shiver whooshing the length of my spine. 🫠
“My mom sends condoms.”
I choke on my own spit and begin coughing convulsively.
“She thinks it’s funny,” he sighs, talking over me as if I’m not asphyxiating. “She’ll send six hundred at a time, always in a clear container so there’s no hiding the contents, and in big red letters on the top she’ll write, Be safe.” 🤣😂🤣
“I’m not worth anything.”
“You’re worth something to me,” Lament snarls, and the room goes deadly silent. 😍🫠🥰
If it weren't for the interplanetary mystery, which was totally transparent to me, it would have been an absolutely perfect book. However, it is YA, so it may not be so transparent for teenagers?
I'm a little torn when it comes to rating this book. But I'll just go with the fact that I had a really good time reading it, and even though there wasn't much romance (just two kisses and a scene that fades to black, so you don't know how much really happened), the story is really great. The plot is something new, and the combination of the two main characters with the supporting characters is just awesome.
The back and forth and the emotional turmoil between Keller and Lament is also delightful.
Shortly before the end, I almost died, and then I cried like a baby. So yes, I love this book.
Most people have this assumption that to become an orphan, both of your parents must be dead. In truth, you can be an orphan with a living, breathing mom or dad, as long as they don’t want you. 🥺🥺🥺
… just my luck, really, finally making it into my dream slot in the Legion only to be stuck with an absolute lemon of a partner. 🤭🤭🤭
I’m not usually a dessert-first kind of guy, but I’m stranded on a foreign planet, and if I’m going to die here, I’d like it to be in brownie-induced bliss. ☺️
Lament shakes his head and gently touches my lower back, urging me through the common room. I’m not even sure he realizes what he’s done, but my legs turn to jelly, a little shiver whooshing the length of my spine. 🫠
“My mom sends condoms.”
I choke on my own spit and begin coughing convulsively.
“She thinks it’s funny,” he sighs, talking over me as if I’m not asphyxiating. “She’ll send six hundred at a time, always in a clear container so there’s no hiding the contents, and in big red letters on the top she’ll write, Be safe.” 🤣😂🤣
“I’m not worth anything.”
“You’re worth something to me,” Lament snarls, and the room goes deadly silent. 😍🫠🥰
March 9, 2026
2,5 ⭐ great idea, not-so-great execution, rounded up after long deliberation because it’s a debut, and I don’t want to choose violence (today).
A queer YA sci-fi, character-driven story with slow burn romance and found family, written in a single first-person POV. And for the first third of the book, I was actually hooked and enjoyed myself, the pace seemed good and engaging, everything happening right away.
This is a debut novel so I’m trying to put everything into words a bit more delicately than I normally would have (we’ll see how it goes lol). It’s still a quick, very easy read, and I think readers wanting to get into sci-fi but scared they won’t understand the techno babble could appreciate it - it’s more of a space fantasy than actual sci-fi.
Keller as the MC was well-written and well-established, and I actually enjoyed his narrative. Such an anxious overthinker (although at times, he seemed to stop thinking at all because he’s also reckless, but I digress) with some serious abandonment issues, I couldn’t not like him. He managed to make me emotional in the beginning when he had to insert himself as a newbie into an established fleet, carve a place for himself when all he craves is to belong to some kind of family.
Lament, as the other MC...initially, I liked him as well, a bit standoffish but clearly grieving his best friend/partner (that Keller is supposed to replace in the fleet), and he was more self-conscious than he presented himself at first. But more and more, he seemed to me like an interesting character concept instead of an actual, fully fleshed out character. I probably don’t make sense, sorry.
The side characters? With Keller and Lament, they made up a fleet of ten, and there I was promised the found family. Instead, all I got was a bunch of one-dimensional characters who served simply as comedic relief. Not enough for me to consider this “good found family vibes”.
There IS one character that I actually loved, and that was Master Ira, the man who raised and guided Keller in a children’s home. We didn’t see much of him, unfortunately, but his sweet moments with Keller were the only ones tugging at my heartstrings. He also reminded me very much of Uncle Iroh!
And it’s such a shame the characters weren’t written better because the story relies on you to love them and get emotional over their bonds. Because when it comes to the plot, it gets much worse. The mystery of an interplanetary threat is nonexistent, you’ll know what’s happening thirty pages in, and it kind of made me frustrated that this “fleet full of highly specialized people that are supposed to be the best in the entire galaxy” couldn’t see it at all.
The plot itself isn’t very well-thought-out, ridden with plot holes, culminating in a final resolution that made me cringe and think I’ve suddenly been transported into a middle-grade fairytale. The villain at least should’ve been interesting but no, we got your average comic book dude with a cape and monologues in his back pocket.
The romance part? I didn’t feel it, sorry. It IS a slowburn, yes, but it still took Keller about 24 hours to catch feelings and start to pine, Lament maybe a day more, who knows. Their relationship development could be summed up as “hot and cold pining” with them being at odds and not talking all too often, rinse and repeat. Honestly, it would have been more effective to scrap the romance entirely and make them go from actual dislike to establishing trust slowly until they become the greatest partners ever. This way, the pining and bonding sessions weren’t woven into the story very organically, severely affecting the pacing.
Still...looking at the mostly glowing reviews, I’m very much an outlier here. If you crave some easy, space fantasy read (I would go as far as saying it has some “ATLA in space” vibes), go for it. The characters and the romance are probably the most subjective, so there is a high chance you’ll enjoy yourself.
For me, the idea was much better than the final product.
A queer YA sci-fi, character-driven story with slow burn romance and found family, written in a single first-person POV. And for the first third of the book, I was actually hooked and enjoyed myself, the pace seemed good and engaging, everything happening right away.
This is a debut novel so I’m trying to put everything into words a bit more delicately than I normally would have (we’ll see how it goes lol). It’s still a quick, very easy read, and I think readers wanting to get into sci-fi but scared they won’t understand the techno babble could appreciate it - it’s more of a space fantasy than actual sci-fi.
Keller as the MC was well-written and well-established, and I actually enjoyed his narrative. Such an anxious overthinker (although at times, he seemed to stop thinking at all because he’s also reckless, but I digress) with some serious abandonment issues, I couldn’t not like him. He managed to make me emotional in the beginning when he had to insert himself as a newbie into an established fleet, carve a place for himself when all he craves is to belong to some kind of family.
Lament, as the other MC...initially, I liked him as well, a bit standoffish but clearly grieving his best friend/partner (that Keller is supposed to replace in the fleet), and he was more self-conscious than he presented himself at first. But more and more, he seemed to me like an interesting character concept instead of an actual, fully fleshed out character. I probably don’t make sense, sorry.
The side characters? With Keller and Lament, they made up a fleet of ten, and there I was promised the found family. Instead, all I got was a bunch of one-dimensional characters who served simply as comedic relief. Not enough for me to consider this “good found family vibes”.
There IS one character that I actually loved, and that was Master Ira, the man who raised and guided Keller in a children’s home. We didn’t see much of him, unfortunately, but his sweet moments with Keller were the only ones tugging at my heartstrings. He also reminded me very much of Uncle Iroh!
And it’s such a shame the characters weren’t written better because the story relies on you to love them and get emotional over their bonds. Because when it comes to the plot, it gets much worse. The mystery of an interplanetary threat is nonexistent, you’ll know what’s happening thirty pages in, and it kind of made me frustrated that this “fleet full of highly specialized people that are supposed to be the best in the entire galaxy” couldn’t see it at all.
The plot itself isn’t very well-thought-out, ridden with plot holes, culminating in a final resolution that made me cringe and think I’ve suddenly been transported into a middle-grade fairytale. The villain at least should’ve been interesting but no, we got your average comic book dude with a cape and monologues in his back pocket.
The romance part? I didn’t feel it, sorry. It IS a slowburn, yes, but it still took Keller about 24 hours to catch feelings and start to pine, Lament maybe a day more, who knows. Their relationship development could be summed up as “hot and cold pining” with them being at odds and not talking all too often, rinse and repeat. Honestly, it would have been more effective to scrap the romance entirely and make them go from actual dislike to establishing trust slowly until they become the greatest partners ever. This way, the pining and bonding sessions weren’t woven into the story very organically, severely affecting the pacing.
Still...looking at the mostly glowing reviews, I’m very much an outlier here. If you crave some easy, space fantasy read (I would go as far as saying it has some “ATLA in space” vibes), go for it. The characters and the romance are probably the most subjective, so there is a high chance you’ll enjoy yourself.
For me, the idea was much better than the final product.
December 9, 2025
Months ago, S.G. Prince asked if I wanted to join the cover reveal for If All the Stars Go Dark. I loved the cover, so of course, I said yes. A few days later, I found the book on NetGalley and requested it, but the thing is, I’m more of a contemporary reader than a sci-fi fan. So when the ARC landed in my inbox, a wave of dread hit me. Then I saw glowing reviews popping up everywhere, and the panic only grew.
What if I didn’t like it? What if I couldn’t wrap my head around the world-building? So, the ARC sat there on my NetGalley shelf, collecting virtual dust for months. I told myself it was because I’m a mood reader. But deep down, I knew it was because I was scared. Even though The Darkness Outside Us, another YA sci-fi, is one of my all-time favorites.
Finally, I decided to dive in… and that first chapter? I freaking loved it! The moment I met Lament and his distant, reserved vibe in the kitchen, I was grinning like an idiot. I immediately leaned forward in my seat. This was the kind of sci-fi I adore: banter, a slow-burn romance, a contemporary vibe, and more angst than I could’ve asked for. And the side characters? Amazing!
So, I read, and I couldn’t stop. Then, when the climax hit, I was sitting there, and I was like: Noooo!! S.G. Prince, why would you pile on so much extra angst? But honestly, I loved every minute of it. And Lament’s voice in the end? Just chef’s kiss.
Thank you, Macmillan’s Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley, for this awesome ARC!
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What if I didn’t like it? What if I couldn’t wrap my head around the world-building? So, the ARC sat there on my NetGalley shelf, collecting virtual dust for months. I told myself it was because I’m a mood reader. But deep down, I knew it was because I was scared. Even though The Darkness Outside Us, another YA sci-fi, is one of my all-time favorites.
Finally, I decided to dive in… and that first chapter? I freaking loved it! The moment I met Lament and his distant, reserved vibe in the kitchen, I was grinning like an idiot. I immediately leaned forward in my seat. This was the kind of sci-fi I adore: banter, a slow-burn romance, a contemporary vibe, and more angst than I could’ve asked for. And the side characters? Amazing!
So, I read, and I couldn’t stop. Then, when the climax hit, I was sitting there, and I was like: Noooo!! S.G. Prince, why would you pile on so much extra angst? But honestly, I loved every minute of it. And Lament’s voice in the end? Just chef’s kiss.
Thank you, Macmillan’s Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley, for this awesome ARC!
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February 10, 2026
5 Stars
Evocative writing, strong world-building, memorable characters, engrossing interplanetary mystery, a delicious slow-burn M/M romance, Klune-esque found family vibes, and the perfect blend of heart and humour that held me captivated.
Yeah, I have to 5-star this book simply because I can’t think of a single element of the storytelling I didn’t enjoy.
I went in pretty much unknowing regarding plot, and I think that was the ticket to my ultimate reader satisfaction. At this point, I’m actually questioning whether I even read the synopsis!?... In truth, I was probably just smitten with the cover, deducing both the M/M pairing and sci-fi themes within, which, truthfully, would have been more than enough for me to jump on-board blindly in hopes of discovering another LGBT-themed space fantasy for my favourites shelf.
Spoiler alert: I found one!!!
S.G. Prince is a new-to-me author, but I was instantly impressed (and delighted) by her storytelling and I can’t wait to devour her backlog, all the while waiting with baited breath for what stories she writes next.
***A special thanks to the author and the publishers (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Evocative writing, strong world-building, memorable characters, engrossing interplanetary mystery, a delicious slow-burn M/M romance, Klune-esque found family vibes, and the perfect blend of heart and humour that held me captivated.
Yeah, I have to 5-star this book simply because I can’t think of a single element of the storytelling I didn’t enjoy.
I went in pretty much unknowing regarding plot, and I think that was the ticket to my ultimate reader satisfaction. At this point, I’m actually questioning whether I even read the synopsis!?... In truth, I was probably just smitten with the cover, deducing both the M/M pairing and sci-fi themes within, which, truthfully, would have been more than enough for me to jump on-board blindly in hopes of discovering another LGBT-themed space fantasy for my favourites shelf.
Spoiler alert: I found one!!!
S.G. Prince is a new-to-me author, but I was instantly impressed (and delighted) by her storytelling and I can’t wait to devour her backlog, all the while waiting with baited breath for what stories she writes next.
***A special thanks to the author and the publishers (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
June 26, 2025It’s that time! I’m so excited to introduce my debut YA and first ever space fantasy. I really didn’t know where this book was going to take me (just sit down and write with your heart!) and ended up concocting a twisty romcom-esque space opera with secrets and angst and my biggest cast of characters yet. We’re calling it a space fantasy because there’s magic that’s never explained scientifically (and because I still consider myself a fantasy author first), but it’ll just as easily fit on the science fiction shelves. The story is written from Keller’s POV and includes some of my favorite themes like found family, sacrifice, and learning to trust others. It’s meant to be fun, heartfelt, goofy, gritty. It’s meant to suck you in and maybe never spit you back out, and I really hope you love it.
- sg
- sg
June 29, 2025
If All the Stars Go Dark was a very pleasant surprise.
This book is the perfect amount of heartwarming and heart wrenching, the characters were so profound and well rounded, all were necessary and played an important part. I imagine the author took such care to write this book, because it showed clearly in the details and just the way everything fit perfectly.
We follow Keller as he begins his journey in an elite team after graduation. By the way this is sci-fi but if you don't like the genre don't worry, neither do I and I loved it. We soon meet the other people in the team, especially the pilot who recently lost his friend in an accident. An accident that opened the position that Keller is currently filling, you can imagine how it goes.
What got to me mostly was the found family aspect, all these characters are family, and they absorb Keller into the fold so seamlessly. All the characters have their own personalities and quirks, at the end they are a little band of misfits and I love every single one of them so much. The only way I can somewhat explain it is by comparing it to the feeling I got reading the house in the cerulean sea and meeting the children, only here they are(mostly) adults.
The plot was a little cliche but that honestly is not that important here, the heart of this book is the characters and their relationships.
Add it to your tbr and read it as soon as you can(the release date is set for January 2026), you won't regret it I promise.
Thank you Netgalley and Godwin Books/Macmillan's Children Publishing Group for the ARC!
This book is the perfect amount of heartwarming and heart wrenching, the characters were so profound and well rounded, all were necessary and played an important part. I imagine the author took such care to write this book, because it showed clearly in the details and just the way everything fit perfectly.
We follow Keller as he begins his journey in an elite team after graduation. By the way this is sci-fi but if you don't like the genre don't worry, neither do I and I loved it. We soon meet the other people in the team, especially the pilot who recently lost his friend in an accident. An accident that opened the position that Keller is currently filling, you can imagine how it goes.
What got to me mostly was the found family aspect, all these characters are family, and they absorb Keller into the fold so seamlessly. All the characters have their own personalities and quirks, at the end they are a little band of misfits and I love every single one of them so much. The only way I can somewhat explain it is by comparing it to the feeling I got reading the house in the cerulean sea and meeting the children, only here they are(mostly) adults.
The plot was a little cliche but that honestly is not that important here, the heart of this book is the characters and their relationships.
Add it to your tbr and read it as soon as you can(the release date is set for January 2026), you won't regret it I promise.
Thank you Netgalley and Godwin Books/Macmillan's Children Publishing Group for the ARC!
October 21, 2025
SO. GOOD.
This book had an amazing plot and a fantastic story with characters literally TO DIE FOR!! Everything was so original and creative, I loved how the story was both soft, cute and funny, while holding onto very serious and hard topics and handling them with the utmost of care.
ALSO !!!
Both of the characters messed up throughout the story and resolved their problems like ADULTS (mature human beings!!) which led to lots of character growth and very cute relationship moments
Nothing but heart eyes for this book 🥰 ❤️ 😍😍
Ps, it saved me from my slump !!!
Tysm netgalley 💙
Appreciate yall
This book had an amazing plot and a fantastic story with characters literally TO DIE FOR!! Everything was so original and creative, I loved how the story was both soft, cute and funny, while holding onto very serious and hard topics and handling them with the utmost of care.
ALSO !!!
Both of the characters messed up throughout the story and resolved their problems like ADULTS (mature human beings!!) which led to lots of character growth and very cute relationship moments
Nothing but heart eyes for this book 🥰 ❤️ 😍😍
Ps, it saved me from my slump !!!
Tysm netgalley 💙
Appreciate yall
January 27, 2026
This was absolutely AMAZING.
I loved the whole cast. And the story is fast paced and good and interesting and exciting and EVERYTHING!
The romance was sweet. Not without its hiccups, but not overly angsty either. Keller and Lament were just so incredibly... good. Like no matter what happened, I would forever like them.
I really recommend this one.
I loved the whole cast. And the story is fast paced and good and interesting and exciting and EVERYTHING!
The romance was sweet. Not without its hiccups, but not overly angsty either. Keller and Lament were just so incredibly... good. Like no matter what happened, I would forever like them.
I really recommend this one.
January 20, 2026
Happy release day to If All the Stars Go Dark!!
"I'm not worth anything."
↳"You're worth something to me."
OOOOH my goodness. I really ate up the romance in this one. Lament and Keller!! The banter was so so much fun, and the angst was 1000% there. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop throughout this story. I think the best way to put their dynamic would be reluctant allies (one sided reluctance *cough* lament *cough*) to everyone can tell that these two idiots are in love, except the two idiots in question 😂
"Yes, but when you do it, it's all helpless and endearing. Like a baby deer. When it's me, it's pathetic."
↳ "Did you just call me endearing?
He throws me a look. "You must have misheard."
Although I found the plot to be slightly predictable at times, I still really enjoyed this one. Regardless, I still got anxious (especially for the last 20-30%) for the characters wondering if everything was going to go okay for them. I also did not expect to be tearing up for the entire last 10% of this book. I was just wrapped in my blanket reading with sad cat eyes thinking "nonononono". 😭
Overall, I would say this was definitely an enjoyable read. The character dynamics and the found family were incredibly cute in here. If you're looking for a fast paced sci fi novel with banter that'll have you giggling, angst(!!!!), and a found family that will warm your heart, this one is for you!! Excited to read more from this author in the future!
Thank you netgalley and Fierce Reads for the arc <3
me for the last 10%:
________________________________
ok I did not expect to tear up so much 😭😭😭
"I'm not worth anything."
↳"You're worth something to me."
OOOOH my goodness. I really ate up the romance in this one. Lament and Keller!! The banter was so so much fun, and the angst was 1000% there. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop throughout this story. I think the best way to put their dynamic would be reluctant allies (one sided reluctance *cough* lament *cough*) to everyone can tell that these two idiots are in love, except the two idiots in question 😂
"Yes, but when you do it, it's all helpless and endearing. Like a baby deer. When it's me, it's pathetic."
↳ "Did you just call me endearing?
He throws me a look. "You must have misheard."
Although I found the plot to be slightly predictable at times, I still really enjoyed this one. Regardless, I still got anxious (especially for the last 20-30%) for the characters wondering if everything was going to go okay for them. I also did not expect to be tearing up for the entire last 10% of this book. I was just wrapped in my blanket reading with sad cat eyes thinking "nonononono". 😭
Overall, I would say this was definitely an enjoyable read. The character dynamics and the found family were incredibly cute in here. If you're looking for a fast paced sci fi novel with banter that'll have you giggling, angst(!!!!), and a found family that will warm your heart, this one is for you!! Excited to read more from this author in the future!
Thank you netgalley and Fierce Reads for the arc <3
me for the last 10%:
________________________________
ok I did not expect to tear up so much 😭😭😭
January 22, 2026
WOW!!! OK, first 5+ star book for me of 2026!
This queer sci-fi YA book will just grab you from the first page and not let up until the very last one. The last quarter of this book you will NOT be able to put down! I looked up and it was 2 AM, whoops!
If you love:
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Animosity to teammates to lovers
- Found family
- Sci-fi action (Firefly vibes!!)
- Witty, amazing banter
- Great narration and inner monologue from our MMC (I dare you not to fall in love with Keller!)
Then you have GOT to grab this one! The world building is perfection (Seriously, I want MOREEEEE set in this world!!) and the characters are all fun, memorable, and work so well together. I love found family and this just hit the spot.
I also love grumpy/sunshine and this was also perfection with Keller wearing down Lament LOL. This story is told almost entirely from Keller's POV, which really worked for me. I really, really loved Keller's inner thoughts and ramblings as he navigated his new role, trying to make friends, and trying to work together with his less-than-cooperative partner, Lament.
There is danger, sci-fi battles, action, funny moments, sweet moments, some angst, a chapter that'll make you gasp, and great storytelling in this one. I highly recommend it!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This queer sci-fi YA book will just grab you from the first page and not let up until the very last one. The last quarter of this book you will NOT be able to put down! I looked up and it was 2 AM, whoops!
If you love:
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Animosity to teammates to lovers
- Found family
- Sci-fi action (Firefly vibes!!)
- Witty, amazing banter
- Great narration and inner monologue from our MMC (I dare you not to fall in love with Keller!)
Then you have GOT to grab this one! The world building is perfection (Seriously, I want MOREEEEE set in this world!!) and the characters are all fun, memorable, and work so well together. I love found family and this just hit the spot.
I also love grumpy/sunshine and this was also perfection with Keller wearing down Lament LOL. This story is told almost entirely from Keller's POV, which really worked for me. I really, really loved Keller's inner thoughts and ramblings as he navigated his new role, trying to make friends, and trying to work together with his less-than-cooperative partner, Lament.
There is danger, sci-fi battles, action, funny moments, sweet moments, some angst, a chapter that'll make you gasp, and great storytelling in this one. I highly recommend it!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2026
If you give me a character with abandonment issue, I will put him in my pocket and I will be so ride or die with him. There’s no way you don’t love Keller Hartman, and there’s no way for you not adore Lament especially since we are reading the story from Keller’s POV. Their dynamics was so good to read, the beginning stages of being closed off to each other yet still being partners, to them both lowering their walls and letting the other in.
I will say I am not a scifi space person, but I still wanted to give this book a chance when S.G Prince reached out to me, cause I do enjoy reading Queer stories in a fantasy setting. (I also love how queer relationships in this world was just as normal and we didn’t have to deal with the internal or external homophobia.) I wasn’t entirely invested with the plot and it was in general a very simple straightforward plot of Lament tryna find more info on the death of his previous partner, Bast, and Keller just going along while also learning about his own past and his abandonment by his mother.
thank you s.g prince and fierce reads for the e-arc!
I will say I am not a scifi space person, but I still wanted to give this book a chance when S.G Prince reached out to me, cause I do enjoy reading Queer stories in a fantasy setting. (I also love how queer relationships in this world was just as normal and we didn’t have to deal with the internal or external homophobia.) I wasn’t entirely invested with the plot and it was in general a very simple straightforward plot of Lament tryna find more info on the death of his previous partner, Bast, and Keller just going along while also learning about his own past and his abandonment by his mother.
thank you s.g prince and fierce reads for the e-arc!
February 23, 2026
“How do two people move forward after seeing each other laid bare like this? After all their wounds are held to the light?”
i love keller & lament and i love found family and i love sci-fi
i love keller & lament and i love found family and i love sci-fi
January 21, 2026
I would rate the main characters and interpersonal relationships 4 stars, but the lack of realistic science and plot in a sci-fi novel combined with 1-dimensional side characters and basic prose brought this down a lot for me. Overall, I think this book is great for people interested in found family and MM romance who have little to no sci-fi expectations.
I think Prince did an excellent job sprinkling Keller’s dry humor throughout the narration, particularly in slower moving plot points. Sadly, the prose leans heavily on telling and not showing. While this makes for a quick read, it also becomes very repetitive. I think YA readers are capable of piecing plot together for themselves, and the repetitive, blatant hammering of plot points takes that experience away.
Furthermore, the plot has so many holes it might as well be swiss cheese (I refrain), and the plot throughout the book makes zero scientific/logical sense, with the most egregious flaws at the climax (spoilers ahead).
Maybe a romance book does not need a scientifically-sound plot, but a book marketed as sci-fi with an easily fixable end is rough. Also it takes ? - yikes.
I’m not sure, but I think this is the author’s first sci-fi novel, as she appears to specialize in fantasy romance. In that case, I think it’s a great effort as the ideas are fun and original, but just shows a lack of background knowledge. Personally, I do not think writing for a YA audience is an excuse for bad science. But her main characters have a lot of depth, and I think her sci-fi writing has a lot of future potential!
I think Prince did an excellent job sprinkling Keller’s dry humor throughout the narration, particularly in slower moving plot points. Sadly, the prose leans heavily on telling and not showing. While this makes for a quick read, it also becomes very repetitive. I think YA readers are capable of piecing plot together for themselves, and the repetitive, blatant hammering of plot points takes that experience away.
Furthermore, the plot has so many holes it might as well be swiss cheese (I refrain), and the plot throughout the book makes zero scientific/logical sense, with the most egregious flaws at the climax (spoilers ahead).
Maybe a romance book does not need a scientifically-sound plot, but a book marketed as sci-fi with an easily fixable end is rough. Also it takes ? - yikes.
I’m not sure, but I think this is the author’s first sci-fi novel, as she appears to specialize in fantasy romance. In that case, I think it’s a great effort as the ideas are fun and original, but just shows a lack of background knowledge. Personally, I do not think writing for a YA audience is an excuse for bad science. But her main characters have a lot of depth, and I think her sci-fi writing has a lot of future potential!
June 26, 2025
This romance in this book is SO SO GOOD especially the way the friends/other characters react because it’s the same as the reader. THE YEARNINGG, THE BLUSHINGGG, my gay heart was bursting. They both have their weaknesses and are so good at recognizing and supporting each other. And it’s kind of enemies to lovers because one acts like he hates the other at the start.
March 17, 2026
This was one of those books where I could clearly see the skill behind it the writing, the worldbuilding, and the plot are genuinely strong but it still didn’t fully work for me as a romance.
The story follows Keller Hartman, an eighteen-year-old who finally achieves his dream of being recruited into the Legion’s most prestigious galactic unit. His partner is Lament Bringer, a talented but emotionally closed-off pilot who refuses to accept Keller. Lament recently lost his previous partner in a traumatic way, and the grief makes him cold, distant, and frankly quite harsh toward Keller at first.
And Keller… he’s just painfully good.
Kind, earnest, trying his best.
His backstory makes that even more heartbreaking. His mother abandoned him when he was ten, leaving him with a mentor who treated him kindly and raised him in a peaceful environment. Because of that history, Keller carries deep abandonment wounds, so Lament’s rejection hits especially hard. Watching him try to prove himself despite that vulnerability was one of the sweetest parts of the book.
The push-and-pull between them is genuinely compelling, and Lament eventually softens in ways that are very tender. Their relationship is sweet, and Lament in particular becomes very protective and gentle once he lets Keller in.
For me, romance works best when the character interaction dominates the story. Ideally I want something like 70% relationship development and 30% plot. This book felt like the reverse: about 70% action, worldbuilding, and mission plot, with only about 30% devoted to Keller and Lament actually interacting.
And when it comes to intimacy, the book is extremely restrained.
The first kiss happens very late in the story, around the midpoint or later. After that there are only a couple more brief moments. At one point it finally seems like the story might move into a more intimate scene Keller’s hand slips inside Lament’s shorts and I thought, okay, finally, here we go.
But then the door shuts.
The scene fades to black.
Personally, that was disappointing for me because physical intimacy is an important part of romantic storytelling for me. It deepens the connection between characters and makes the emotional payoff feel complete. Instead, the book keeps things very closed-door, which left me feeling like I’d been pushed out of the room just when things were getting interesting.
And for me, the heavy focus on plot and the extremely low-steam romance made it feel more like a space adventure with a light romantic thread, rather than a romance I was hoping for.
So while I can absolutely appreciate the craft behind it, my personal enjoyment lands closer to 3 stars.
If you enjoy:
• plot-heavy sci-fi adventures
• slow, sweet romances
• fade-to-black intimacy
• emotional healing arcs
then this book will probably work beautifully for you.
But if you’re someone like me who wants the romance to dominate the story and the intimacy to be fully on page, you might find yourself wishing for a little more time behind that closed door.
The story follows Keller Hartman, an eighteen-year-old who finally achieves his dream of being recruited into the Legion’s most prestigious galactic unit. His partner is Lament Bringer, a talented but emotionally closed-off pilot who refuses to accept Keller. Lament recently lost his previous partner in a traumatic way, and the grief makes him cold, distant, and frankly quite harsh toward Keller at first.
And Keller… he’s just painfully good.
Kind, earnest, trying his best.
His backstory makes that even more heartbreaking. His mother abandoned him when he was ten, leaving him with a mentor who treated him kindly and raised him in a peaceful environment. Because of that history, Keller carries deep abandonment wounds, so Lament’s rejection hits especially hard. Watching him try to prove himself despite that vulnerability was one of the sweetest parts of the book.
The push-and-pull between them is genuinely compelling, and Lament eventually softens in ways that are very tender. Their relationship is sweet, and Lament in particular becomes very protective and gentle once he lets Keller in.
For me, romance works best when the character interaction dominates the story. Ideally I want something like 70% relationship development and 30% plot. This book felt like the reverse: about 70% action, worldbuilding, and mission plot, with only about 30% devoted to Keller and Lament actually interacting.
And when it comes to intimacy, the book is extremely restrained.
The first kiss happens very late in the story, around the midpoint or later. After that there are only a couple more brief moments. At one point it finally seems like the story might move into a more intimate scene Keller’s hand slips inside Lament’s shorts and I thought, okay, finally, here we go.
But then the door shuts.
The scene fades to black.
Personally, that was disappointing for me because physical intimacy is an important part of romantic storytelling for me. It deepens the connection between characters and makes the emotional payoff feel complete. Instead, the book keeps things very closed-door, which left me feeling like I’d been pushed out of the room just when things were getting interesting.
And for me, the heavy focus on plot and the extremely low-steam romance made it feel more like a space adventure with a light romantic thread, rather than a romance I was hoping for.
So while I can absolutely appreciate the craft behind it, my personal enjoyment lands closer to 3 stars.
If you enjoy:
• plot-heavy sci-fi adventures
• slow, sweet romances
• fade-to-black intimacy
• emotional healing arcs
then this book will probably work beautifully for you.
But if you’re someone like me who wants the romance to dominate the story and the intimacy to be fully on page, you might find yourself wishing for a little more time behind that closed door.
March 17, 2026
I'm getting tired of YA novels where the plot is just too predictable and juvenile. Totally my fault because I could see where this was going already a few chapters in, but the banter kind of drew me in and this was a fairly easy read. I did enjoy Keller and Lament in the beginning, but as the story goes on the characters seem to lack any depth and I just couldn't relate. I skimmed through the last chapters and the ending had me rolling my eyes (again, just too predictable)
January 20, 2026
4,25 ⭐
Happy release day!! thank you to Macmillan Children's publishing Group, Fierce Reads & S.G Prince sending a physical ARC my way in exchange for a honest review!
Let me start of by saying that I absolutely flew through this book!! The writing style is very engaging, the plot exciting and the characters are all great!
My favorite part of of this book is definitely the found family. Our main character Keller joins this crew in space with quite a lot of doubts, trauma and anxiety but most of the characters make him feel like he belongs immediately and that never stops! the side characters all have their own personalities and I loved them all. I also adored Keller and Lament. They both have dealt with a lof of trauma and grief but the way they (reluctantly at first) take those walls down and let eachother in, was so wonderful to read and I adore them 🥺
The plot is also very fun to read, with interesting world building and mysteries to solve and bad people to defeat. Sometimes I did think this part of the story could've used a bit more explanation at times but I also do think this story is more character focused and as someone who loves character based stories, I was absolutely fine with it in the end.
Speaking of the end, S.G Prince can you pay for my therapy??? 😭😱
Happy release day!! thank you to Macmillan Children's publishing Group, Fierce Reads & S.G Prince sending a physical ARC my way in exchange for a honest review!
Let me start of by saying that I absolutely flew through this book!! The writing style is very engaging, the plot exciting and the characters are all great!
My favorite part of of this book is definitely the found family. Our main character Keller joins this crew in space with quite a lot of doubts, trauma and anxiety but most of the characters make him feel like he belongs immediately and that never stops! the side characters all have their own personalities and I loved them all. I also adored Keller and Lament. They both have dealt with a lof of trauma and grief but the way they (reluctantly at first) take those walls down and let eachother in, was so wonderful to read and I adore them 🥺
The plot is also very fun to read, with interesting world building and mysteries to solve and bad people to defeat. Sometimes I did think this part of the story could've used a bit more explanation at times but I also do think this story is more character focused and as someone who loves character based stories, I was absolutely fine with it in the end.
Speaking of the end, S.G Prince can you pay for my therapy??? 😭😱
January 13, 2026
The book was amazing, amazing characters , I love this story! Action pack through the whole thing there wasn’t a dull moment. I will definitely re-read it again. ARC book
February 25, 2026
Review: 4.5 stars
Thank you, Raincoast for the finished copy! I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Keller, a recent gunner graduate from The Legion just landed a prestigious role to join the prestigious 6th unit…the problem was Lament, his assigned partner wants nothing to do with this partnership having not come into grips with the recent death of his previous gunner and a position that Keller is filling for…so you can just imagine!
Gah, I did not expect to like this one so much! The found family concept took me by surprise…Lament did take awhile to warm up to Keller but the team took to him immediately and the characters treat each other as family despite their differences and specialties. I love how Vera is secretly cheering from Keller and Lament and sneakily tries to always shuffle them together. I just love how they work together and would never abandon each other despite all the craziness that happens around them.
The relationship between Lament and Keller was animosity to start but slowly went through a change. The slow burn is subtle with underlying actions and banter that makes you want to sneak a smile as two people who could not be more different and do not want to like each other slowly fall for each other. And the yearning, angst and tension thrown in - delishhhhh! My favourite is the sneaky pancake scene and how the others tease them on it.
The overarching big space plot wasn’t too hard to guess with two different cults pitted against each other with a volcano eruption of poisonous gas thrown into the mix - you can say it is a little cliche but rooted in YA. Also the surface of Keller’s missing mum who abandoned him since young and his estranged mentor who raised him…This story is mostly told in Keller’s POV.
The worldbuilding could use a little bit more love but I can see it can be hard with the character development taking central focus. The book was also action packed with minimal filler time making it grippy and engaging - you just want to keep reading to know what happens and it helps that the writing makes it easy to follow.
Themes that this book touched about are family abandonment, found family, sacrificing for the greater good, friendship and chasing one’s dream!
And that crazy climax - omggg! I teared up a little at the end as the angst did get to me - so heartwrenching! I wanted more since the ending felt a tad rushed to me!
Overall, if you are looking for a MM romance with subtle slow burn and an amazing cast of characters, this one is a perfect one to go for!
Thank you, Raincoast for the finished copy! I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Keller, a recent gunner graduate from The Legion just landed a prestigious role to join the prestigious 6th unit…the problem was Lament, his assigned partner wants nothing to do with this partnership having not come into grips with the recent death of his previous gunner and a position that Keller is filling for…so you can just imagine!
Gah, I did not expect to like this one so much! The found family concept took me by surprise…Lament did take awhile to warm up to Keller but the team took to him immediately and the characters treat each other as family despite their differences and specialties. I love how Vera is secretly cheering from Keller and Lament and sneakily tries to always shuffle them together. I just love how they work together and would never abandon each other despite all the craziness that happens around them.
The relationship between Lament and Keller was animosity to start but slowly went through a change. The slow burn is subtle with underlying actions and banter that makes you want to sneak a smile as two people who could not be more different and do not want to like each other slowly fall for each other. And the yearning, angst and tension thrown in - delishhhhh! My favourite is the sneaky pancake scene and how the others tease them on it.
The overarching big space plot wasn’t too hard to guess with two different cults pitted against each other with a volcano eruption of poisonous gas thrown into the mix - you can say it is a little cliche but rooted in YA. Also the surface of Keller’s missing mum who abandoned him since young and his estranged mentor who raised him…This story is mostly told in Keller’s POV.
The worldbuilding could use a little bit more love but I can see it can be hard with the character development taking central focus. The book was also action packed with minimal filler time making it grippy and engaging - you just want to keep reading to know what happens and it helps that the writing makes it easy to follow.
Themes that this book touched about are family abandonment, found family, sacrificing for the greater good, friendship and chasing one’s dream!
And that crazy climax - omggg! I teared up a little at the end as the angst did get to me - so heartwrenching! I wanted more since the ending felt a tad rushed to me!
Overall, if you are looking for a MM romance with subtle slow burn and an amazing cast of characters, this one is a perfect one to go for!
March 2, 2026
i keep on hearing so much praise about if all the stars go dark which is why i knew i had to read this. i'm always of the opinion that we need more ya sci-fi books because there's room for so much creativity, and this book does exactly that.
it was fun, charming and intense, and i really liked the world building. it felt very reminiscent of old school mecha anime that i used to watch, in terms of the themes and the elements. the writing was so much fun, it kept me hooked, and i kept on turning pages to find out what happens next. and lament and keller? yes. i love them. no doubts about it. they had such an interesting dynamic, and such good chemistry (and a very adorable relationship ngl).
if all the stars go dark was such a well crafted read and i cannot wait to read more of what s.g. prince writes!
thank you colored pages book tour and fierce reads for the e-arc!
it was fun, charming and intense, and i really liked the world building. it felt very reminiscent of old school mecha anime that i used to watch, in terms of the themes and the elements. the writing was so much fun, it kept me hooked, and i kept on turning pages to find out what happens next. and lament and keller? yes. i love them. no doubts about it. they had such an interesting dynamic, and such good chemistry (and a very adorable relationship ngl).
if all the stars go dark was such a well crafted read and i cannot wait to read more of what s.g. prince writes!
thank you colored pages book tour and fierce reads for the e-arc!
March 6, 2026
I'm not crying, you're crying ;-;
This was so good. I need more immediately.
This was so good. I need more immediately.
July 5, 2025
ARC Review
5/5⭐️
“I love you more than all the stars in all the universes multiplied a million-fold.”
Now this is how you do a space fantasy book! What a wonderful story this was! I enjoyed every single moment and could not put the book down. It was filled with thrilling space adventures, founds family and a romance that I adored.
This book was a nice pace and I never got bored. The style of writing was fantastic and easy to follow and understand. I loved every character. I liked reading the development and growth of everyone in the sixths and how they became true Family.
"Friends are the stars that guide us. And we must always lean on them."
I also really enjoyed Lament and kellers banter, it was perfect. Throughout the story you could really see how they were able to open up and trust each other and how their relationship bloomed.
I also liked the political aspect of the story with the determinist and thought it to be unique.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan/Godwin Books for sending me this ARC for an honest review ❤️
5/5⭐️
“I love you more than all the stars in all the universes multiplied a million-fold.”
Now this is how you do a space fantasy book! What a wonderful story this was! I enjoyed every single moment and could not put the book down. It was filled with thrilling space adventures, founds family and a romance that I adored.
This book was a nice pace and I never got bored. The style of writing was fantastic and easy to follow and understand. I loved every character. I liked reading the development and growth of everyone in the sixths and how they became true Family.
"Friends are the stars that guide us. And we must always lean on them."
I also really enjoyed Lament and kellers banter, it was perfect. Throughout the story you could really see how they were able to open up and trust each other and how their relationship bloomed.
I also liked the political aspect of the story with the determinist and thought it to be unique.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan/Godwin Books for sending me this ARC for an honest review ❤️
Currently reading
January 20, 2026Happy release day!!!🎊🎊🎉
March 13, 2026
I just finished the very last chapter and I’m screaming, crying, kicking my feet, rolling around, smiling, dying of happiness and love… everything. This was so heartfelt, beautiful, and perfect. I don’t even know if I can manage to write a review that will do it justice.
I have so much love for these characters. Every single one of them brought something special to the table, whether it was strength, humor, leadership, or friendship.
Keller and Lament… okay, hear me out. When I say they’re the most precious beings in the entire galaxy, I mean they are the most precious beings in the entire galaxy. And I’m not being dramatic.
I don’t know how the author managed to pull off a character like Lament, who was so complex and had so many layers, who could act like an a**hole, but who you also wanted to protect. He came across as a bit controlling and obsessive (controlling about situations and how he presented himself, not about people). He also seemed a little cold and had a bit of an attitude. Sure, when I describe him like that, he doesn’t sound likable at all, yet he absolutely was. From the very beginning. That’s why I love how he was written. He didn’t feel like the stereotypical tough or grumpy, cold but cool character, he was just... very put together in a way that instantly makes you want to know more about him. He was intriguing and magnetic. Even when he seemed distant at first, I constantly found myself wanting to read more about him. Underneath everything, he was such a sensitive and loving character who literally deserves the world.
My first impression of Keller was the complete opposite. He was such a chaotic little mess who always said the most hilarious things at the most unexpected times. When he was halfway through eating a sandwich and Lament appeared, I knew Keller was going to be a fantastic main character. He was complex in his own way. He had a completely different exterior from Lament’s, came off as more approachable and easily likable, but he was also battling his own demons and doing his best to keep moving forward. He was unexpectedly hilarious, but also thoughtful, fiercely protective, loyal, dedicated, and hardworking. The flashbacks he gave us with Master Ira were soooo beautiful. So much to learn, so much to reconsider about life, it felt like being wrapped in a blanket while learning from the best about the world.
The worldbuilding was soooo incredibly fun to read!!!!! Even before the romance really began, I was already completely invested in their world and everything they had to do. I was always curious, always wanting to learn more about everyone. The pacing was great and nothing felt dragged out. The story moved in a way that kept you hooked while still allowing you to enjoy the ride. The connection between Keller and Lament was easily one of the best I’ve ever read. It wasn’t obvious or in-your-face, and it wasn’t one of those relationships filled with constant sexual tension. It was so much more than that. It felt deeper, more emotional and meaningful. Almost… soulbound in a way. Even during casual conversations, or when Keller was getting on Lament’s nerves 😂, you could feel there was something special between them.
Just UGH, I can't. This was absolutely perfect, I wish I could forget about it and read it again for the first time just so I could experience everything again🥹🩵
I have so much love for these characters. Every single one of them brought something special to the table, whether it was strength, humor, leadership, or friendship.
Keller and Lament… okay, hear me out. When I say they’re the most precious beings in the entire galaxy, I mean they are the most precious beings in the entire galaxy. And I’m not being dramatic.
I don’t know how the author managed to pull off a character like Lament, who was so complex and had so many layers, who could act like an a**hole, but who you also wanted to protect. He came across as a bit controlling and obsessive (controlling about situations and how he presented himself, not about people). He also seemed a little cold and had a bit of an attitude. Sure, when I describe him like that, he doesn’t sound likable at all, yet he absolutely was. From the very beginning. That’s why I love how he was written. He didn’t feel like the stereotypical tough or grumpy, cold but cool character, he was just... very put together in a way that instantly makes you want to know more about him. He was intriguing and magnetic. Even when he seemed distant at first, I constantly found myself wanting to read more about him. Underneath everything, he was such a sensitive and loving character who literally deserves the world.
My first impression of Keller was the complete opposite. He was such a chaotic little mess who always said the most hilarious things at the most unexpected times. When he was halfway through eating a sandwich and Lament appeared, I knew Keller was going to be a fantastic main character. He was complex in his own way. He had a completely different exterior from Lament’s, came off as more approachable and easily likable, but he was also battling his own demons and doing his best to keep moving forward. He was unexpectedly hilarious, but also thoughtful, fiercely protective, loyal, dedicated, and hardworking. The flashbacks he gave us with Master Ira were soooo beautiful. So much to learn, so much to reconsider about life, it felt like being wrapped in a blanket while learning from the best about the world.
The worldbuilding was soooo incredibly fun to read!!!!! Even before the romance really began, I was already completely invested in their world and everything they had to do. I was always curious, always wanting to learn more about everyone. The pacing was great and nothing felt dragged out. The story moved in a way that kept you hooked while still allowing you to enjoy the ride. The connection between Keller and Lament was easily one of the best I’ve ever read. It wasn’t obvious or in-your-face, and it wasn’t one of those relationships filled with constant sexual tension. It was so much more than that. It felt deeper, more emotional and meaningful. Almost… soulbound in a way. Even during casual conversations, or when Keller was getting on Lament’s nerves 😂, you could feel there was something special between them.
Just UGH, I can't. This was absolutely perfect, I wish I could forget about it and read it again for the first time just so I could experience everything again🥹🩵
November 2, 2025
If All The Stars Go Dark is a fast-paced sci-fi adventure packed with weird space cults, cosmic mysteries, doomsday vibes, betrayals, friendship, and a beautiful queer love story at its heart.
When Keller joins the prestigious Sixth Fleet as their new gunner, he’s met with a frosty reception from his new (and unfortunately gorgeous) partner, Lament. The pair are forced to work together, alongside their quirky crewmates, to uncover the truth behind the death of Lament’s previous partner, all while investigating a cult leader who claims to have foreseen the destruction of an entire planet.
I don’t usually read a lot of sci-fi, but Prince’s worldbuilding felt effortless and easy to fall into. Across the story, we visit a range of planets, species, and customs, and I loved how distinctive each character felt while still complementing one another. The Sixth Fleet itself is a fantastic found family, a chaotic, loyal group whose banter and bond felt endearing to me. Their humour and unwavering support are exactly what I look for in stories like this.
Lament and Keller have great chemistry from the start. Their slow burn is full of tension, awkward vulnerability, and emotional restraint as both grapple with past trauma. I enjoyed watching them open up to one another, though their romance felt slightly overshadowed by the general plot.
The pacing is generally strong, full of twists and turns leading to the dramatic conclusion. However, the ending didn’t quite land for me, as it felt rushed and kind of emotionally manipulative. I could see it coming, which made it more frustrating than shocking.
Overall, this was an engaging and heartfelt read that I’d definitely recommend to YA sci-fi fans, especially those who love found family and queer love stories.
*I was given an advanced copy of this book for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily*
When Keller joins the prestigious Sixth Fleet as their new gunner, he’s met with a frosty reception from his new (and unfortunately gorgeous) partner, Lament. The pair are forced to work together, alongside their quirky crewmates, to uncover the truth behind the death of Lament’s previous partner, all while investigating a cult leader who claims to have foreseen the destruction of an entire planet.
I don’t usually read a lot of sci-fi, but Prince’s worldbuilding felt effortless and easy to fall into. Across the story, we visit a range of planets, species, and customs, and I loved how distinctive each character felt while still complementing one another. The Sixth Fleet itself is a fantastic found family, a chaotic, loyal group whose banter and bond felt endearing to me. Their humour and unwavering support are exactly what I look for in stories like this.
Lament and Keller have great chemistry from the start. Their slow burn is full of tension, awkward vulnerability, and emotional restraint as both grapple with past trauma. I enjoyed watching them open up to one another, though their romance felt slightly overshadowed by the general plot.
The pacing is generally strong, full of twists and turns leading to the dramatic conclusion. However, the ending didn’t quite land for me, as it felt rushed and kind of emotionally manipulative. I could see it coming, which made it more frustrating than shocking.
Overall, this was an engaging and heartfelt read that I’d definitely recommend to YA sci-fi fans, especially those who love found family and queer love stories.
*I was given an advanced copy of this book for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily*
December 16, 2025
The slowest of burns with found family and great banter set in a sci-fi universe with political intrigue. 10/10.
Every time I picked this book up, I didn’t want to put it down. The perfect amount of action and plot, romance and character development. Loved all of the witty side characters too.
Every time I picked this book up, I didn’t want to put it down. The perfect amount of action and plot, romance and character development. Loved all of the witty side characters too.
November 11, 2025
Lament and Keller are the best I ate this up 😭
March 15, 2026
rating: 5/5 stars
~
i'm so sorry S.G. Prince i was not aware of your gay yearning ways.
...but seriously this was amazing and i was sleeping on its magnificence.
~
i'm so sorry S.G. Prince i was not aware of your gay yearning ways.
...but seriously this was amazing and i was sleeping on its magnificence.
August 4, 2025
If All The Stars Go Dark is a sci-fi love story wrapped up in a tale of corruption, fanaticism, grief, autonomy and deception—and I adored it.
The story follows Keller Hartmann, a fresh faced, once in a generation graduate recruited to be the gunner in the Sixth—the Legion's most prestigious unit. His partner is meant to be Lament Bringer, who barely wants to look at him after the mysterious, tragic death of his best friend and former gunner—who Keller is meant to be replacing. The death of Lament's former partner begins to get tied up in a greater threat brewing in the galaxy; a fanatic cult following a man who claims to have come up with a simulation that can predict any tragedy, who only requires loyalty for his protection.
While the love story in this was absolutely superb, I first have to applaud the unique sci-fi world this story was set in. I loved the concept of the Legion, and its imperfections, and would love to see it explored more. The concept of "Determinism" was so intriguing—and realistic, where so many people even at the highest levels of society might have fallen for a man who claims to have knowledge of the future that might keep them safe. I'd love to have learned more about how he dug himself so deeply into this society. It was mentioned here and there that certain characters, like Bast's family and the Sixth's sergeant, had different tie-ins to the cult, and I hope to see this explored more, though I'm not sure if the book is a standalone or a first in a series (though I hope for the latter!). The side characters in the book (particularly the other members of the Sixth) were just as enjoyable and unique as the main duo, and I often found just as invested in them and concerned for their safety as I was for Keller and Lament.
Onto the romance—goodness, I adored these two. Keller and Lament felt like fully fleshed out characters who had their own stories and struggles outside of the affection that built between them. The way they fell together despite Keller's fear of abandonment, and Lament's grief and guilt. I was worried at first that the relationship might burn too quickly with how often Keller discussed Lament's beauty in the first half of the book, but it didn't—the progression felt natural and made sense for both characters. I'd read a dozen more books about them in a heartbeat.
The ending actually had me gasping—without spoiling anything, it enacts my favorite niche trope of all time. So maybe I'm biased—but the whole last 10% did a lot of good for me, and I would've loved to see it stretched out even more.
As a character driven reader, I find it hard to discover sci-fi that really digs in on character work instead of becoming a lore dump of world-building, and this book struck an absolute perfect tone. I can't wait to read it again—and I hope to see more in the universe from this author again someday!
PS: I usually love the part in the book where they say the name of this book, but I was crying when this one happened, so. Thanks for that, S.G. Prince.
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan for the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
The story follows Keller Hartmann, a fresh faced, once in a generation graduate recruited to be the gunner in the Sixth—the Legion's most prestigious unit. His partner is meant to be Lament Bringer, who barely wants to look at him after the mysterious, tragic death of his best friend and former gunner—who Keller is meant to be replacing. The death of Lament's former partner begins to get tied up in a greater threat brewing in the galaxy; a fanatic cult following a man who claims to have come up with a simulation that can predict any tragedy, who only requires loyalty for his protection.
While the love story in this was absolutely superb, I first have to applaud the unique sci-fi world this story was set in. I loved the concept of the Legion, and its imperfections, and would love to see it explored more. The concept of "Determinism" was so intriguing—and realistic, where so many people even at the highest levels of society might have fallen for a man who claims to have knowledge of the future that might keep them safe. I'd love to have learned more about how he dug himself so deeply into this society. It was mentioned here and there that certain characters, like Bast's family and the Sixth's sergeant, had different tie-ins to the cult, and I hope to see this explored more, though I'm not sure if the book is a standalone or a first in a series (though I hope for the latter!). The side characters in the book (particularly the other members of the Sixth) were just as enjoyable and unique as the main duo, and I often found just as invested in them and concerned for their safety as I was for Keller and Lament.
Onto the romance—goodness, I adored these two. Keller and Lament felt like fully fleshed out characters who had their own stories and struggles outside of the affection that built between them. The way they fell together despite Keller's fear of abandonment, and Lament's grief and guilt. I was worried at first that the relationship might burn too quickly with how often Keller discussed Lament's beauty in the first half of the book, but it didn't—the progression felt natural and made sense for both characters. I'd read a dozen more books about them in a heartbeat.
The ending actually had me gasping—without spoiling anything, it enacts my favorite niche trope of all time. So maybe I'm biased—but the whole last 10% did a lot of good for me, and I would've loved to see it stretched out even more.
As a character driven reader, I find it hard to discover sci-fi that really digs in on character work instead of becoming a lore dump of world-building, and this book struck an absolute perfect tone. I can't wait to read it again—and I hope to see more in the universe from this author again someday!
PS: I usually love the part in the book where they say the name of this book, but I was crying when this one happened, so. Thanks for that, S.G. Prince.
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan for the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 16, 2026
*2.5 stars
Finally encountered my first disappointing anticipated read of the year.
I primarily hated the writing style. Maybe I hated it because it felt surface level or maybe I hated it because it reminded me too much of my own lackluster style, but whatever the reason, I never found myself vibing with the story because of it. And the use of parentheses annoyed me so much!!
There was also no chemistry between the main characters. It was almost insta love from Keller's pov and I did not enjoy the lack of build up. The romance was one note and boring. On top of that, a side character, Vera, was basically written as a matchmaker between the two instead of being her own character with her own goals. It rubbed me the wrong way.
I know I'm in the minority with my thoughts and I'm so glad people are enjoying this book but it was not a hit for me.
Finally encountered my first disappointing anticipated read of the year.
I primarily hated the writing style. Maybe I hated it because it felt surface level or maybe I hated it because it reminded me too much of my own lackluster style, but whatever the reason, I never found myself vibing with the story because of it. And the use of parentheses annoyed me so much!!
There was also no chemistry between the main characters. It was almost insta love from Keller's pov and I did not enjoy the lack of build up. The romance was one note and boring. On top of that, a side character, Vera, was basically written as a matchmaker between the two instead of being her own character with her own goals. It rubbed me the wrong way.
I know I'm in the minority with my thoughts and I'm so glad people are enjoying this book but it was not a hit for me.
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