In 2053, whether you live in Zimbabwe, South Korea, or America, the clouds all look the same.
You are living in the world of Atlas Hawkins. After a catastrophic world war, he controls how most people think and act. And yes, he even controls the weather.
If you’re a teenager, wherever you are, your every move is monitored, and you must not step out of line. Even the smallest transgression will get you sent to the new juvenile penal colony on Camp Constellation.
But nineteen-year-old Hester is not your average teenager. She is on a secret mission that she's willing to risk everything for - and believes the newest AI being used as therapy bots at the camp on Mars might just hold the key.
Life at Constellation is a far cry from what Hester imagined it would be, though. She’s thrown together with a group of juvies who are forced to confront not only their sins, but also their strengths. They realize this place might just turn out to be everything they wish Earth could be.
That is, if they can get out alive.
Serving time on Mars is one thing- but this just got WAY more complicated.
Join us for this female led coming-of-age story. Set in a dystopian future against a backdrop of Mars colonization, our group of teen rebels and the latest Artificial Intelligence robots come together when they realize the fate of Earth might just be in their hands
Content Contains occasional mature language and themes appropriate for older teens.
A super solid debut, and a book that I’ll definitely read again. All of the characters have something interesting about them, and even the ones that you may not necessarily like are still ones you want to read about. The concept was extremely interesting, and you could feel the love that was put into the entire book as you made your way through it. The passion and care that was used to write this is palpable, and made the experience so much more enjoyable.
Characters like Drew and Sho had me waiting excitedly for a new portion of the book from their point of views. Whereas Cadmus and Damon had me silently screaming while I read through the book in a house full of sleeping people at midnight. The friendships that the characters form is not only heartwarming, but speaks to greater themes.
Congrats to Fay and Bellamy for a fantastic debut novel! It was a pleasure to be one of your first readers.
Can’t wait for the release of the book, and I can’t wait for book 2! (Although it’s probably a little too soon to already be asking for it 😅)
Fantastic read, and I can’t wait till more people read it so I can talk about it more and more.
First off, I want to say thank you so much for letting me be an advanced reader :) it has really made my entire year. Not to mention that this book is the best sci-fi novel I have ever read. The plot is crazy and makes you think because of the use of ai robots, it’s not that far fetched to picture this actually happening a few years from now. I love that we’re bringing back the dystopian era! Honestly can’t wait to read book 2!
Thank you Bellamy and Fay for the opportunity to read the ARC for this amazing book. It's been a pleasure to spend a few days with it (and needless to say I dragged it out so I could enjoy it longer). I am excited to read the next books in this series, as this was just the warm up. I am trying to think of something to say that won't be full of spoilers, because there is a lot of feels I have about this book that is closely tied to the plot. But I will try to be as spoiler free as I can and to give a summary of what I think of this book. First and foremost, I'd like to say how amazing the characters were, and I don't mean it in a way that everyone was perfect, but how despite the dystopian world they lived in, they were still flawed, still fighting for justice, and to get themselves through just one more day, take one more step, and try to do good. Of course, there are just pure evil characters, but there are those that cancel them out with the goodness in their heart. We have misguided characters, who eventually find their way and purpose, and those who have to fight for that. At the end of the day, they will have to stick together, so they can overcome the difficulties with which they are faced. Life on Mars is nothing short of astonishing, and nothing each one of the characters imagined it would be when they were sent there to serve their prison sentences. I won't name all of the characters, because then I will have to get into telling more about them and the events of the book, but I gotta say that over time, and with strong will, as well as some sort of divine intervention (or not?) they turned out to be a family, which I am sure we will be reading more about. I would like to keep this short and to the point, so I will say this: I can't wait to see what awaits our heroes in part two, which battles they will lead, and which battles will be won or lost, what their journey forward will be, and how will life on Mars be now that things are not as they seemed at the start? Will President Hawkins face any repercussions for his actions or will he keep his tight reign on people on Earth? This book was amazing, kept me right on the edge of my seat. It is well written, I love the worldbuilding around it, and I am in awe of what Fay Masterson and Bellamy Young have achieved with writing it. It sends a powerful message, and I feel truly honored that I was a part of reading this ARC. I am glad I requested access to an ARC as soon as I saw the Instagram story with the video of Bellamy about this book. I am definitely going to be on the lookout for a physical copy once this book is out, and I couldn't stop bragging it out to my best friend, because I wish her to read it when it's out, so we can scream about it together.
The premise that the younger generations are bright and capable and their voices should be listened to is definitely one I can get behind. So often adults think they know better when the wool couldn’t be thicker over our eyes. Different perspectives are a result of a healthy society. Sameness leads to “death” in a way.
At least from my reading I think this is the overarching message. There were several competing themes making the story difficult to follow. I think having so many character perspectives hurt the story. Picking three or just sticking with Hester’s point of view would’ve simplified the narrative and made it more compelling.
Top marks for the dialogue! These authors did not struggle when it came to dialogue. Well done.
It’s just the beginning of a series that I can see being turned into an interesting sci-fi show one day.
Banished to Mars. Away from home and family. Having done the crime (whose idea of justifiable?) and now enduring the punishment (or, is Camp Constellation a refuge?). A band of young people finds themselves facing identity, anger, empathy, vengeance, love, hate, friendship, psychological, moral and even spiritual challenges. Ultimately, they begin to discover the difference between being human and humanity in this light-speed bildungsroman.
The characters of The Aetherion Code reveal themselves with beautiful timing. Take no one for granted. Amidst loads of mind-bending technology and sinister drugs designed to control and subdue, each character goes on a journey of self-discovery in a futuristic landscape where trust becomes the great teacher.
For a reader who is neither YA or a SYFY reader by choice, this was a surprising and superb read. Wishing there was a classroom of diverse young people who have read The Aetherion Code, and that I could eavesdrop on their conversations about the themes and characters that are richly featured in this book.
Be consumed by Book One:The Spark, and wait impatiently for the next book in The Aetherion Code trilogy.
As someone who strictly reads fantasy/romantasy and not so much any SciFi or YA, to be honest I had a hard time getting into it at first….BUT after I hit chapter 5 it was smooth sailing and found myself enjoying it so much!
The characters are so diverse and fun!
And what do you mean BANISHED the MOON? Say less! Get me off earth, even if I have to commit a crime to leave it lol.
I can’t wait to read the rest of this series and cheer on lovely Bellamy and Fay through it all! Thank you ladies for the wonderful opportunity to be an ARC reader!
I have never read a sci-fi book that I couldn’t put down. It’s not my usual genre of choice, but this book is hands down one of the best I’ve ever read. Additionally, there is queer representation like I have never witnessed before. This book doesn’t show all of the struggles of being queer, but rather the characters just *existing*. As a queer woman, I not only long for this, but appreciated having the opportunity to read it. This book is perfect for high schoolers into sci-fi and I highly recommend this for ages 16-20, though encourage others to read it too. Bellamy Young and Fay Masterson did a wonderful job with this book, and I cannot wait to read the next! 13/10, highly recommend.
This book was sooo good!! I love the characters and the way the writers are able to keep you constantly wanting to turn the page without trying! From the very beginning, I felt like I was watching a movie because the imagery was so good. I could visualize everything as I was reading. It was a great read and I can’t wait to read it again!!
This book is PHENOMINAL! As far as debuts go this is one of the best I've read. as soon as I started I didn't want to put it down! I fell instantly into the world building and characters. I love how every character has an arc, even small ones who we know little of become so important to the story and main characters journey! I felt with the characters through this story, I was angry and sad and scared and expirienced joy with them. this book is so well writing I truly fell into it and felt like I was watching a movie.
I cannot reccomend this book enough, truly. it's very prevalent for today's society. I felt seen by the characters in ways I never have before. this was absolutely motivational and heartbreaking and soul making all at once.
as far as the characters go I'm in love with all the arcs, stories, povs and worlds! I love how diverse the characters and their backgrounds are, I love seeing the growth (good and bad) with each character as they discover themselves and their values. I love that even though Hester is the main character, she's also not. every character has so much time and growth it feels very much like an ensemble and I love getting to know them all.
going into this i truly didn't know what to expect, but it was done so well and I fell in love! I haven't been able to stop screeching since I read the ending! I'm so excited for the rest of this series and to see what happens next on earth, camp constellations and mars.
major applause to everyone involved in writing this! you all did an incredible job and I can't wait to keep reading and supporting! I'm so grateful I got to arc read for this! it's a 10/10 reccomend.
From the opening pages, The Spark grips you with its haunting vision of 2053. Imagine a world where atmospheric control is total, surveillance is relentless, and teenagers can be exiled to Mars for even the smallest slip-ups.
19-year-old Hester comes alive in a narrative that melds hearts, stopping suspense, emotional depth, and hard-hitting themes. Her mission is to uncover the truth behind AI therapy bots on Mars’ Camp Constellation, which drives a plot full of shocking revelations and edge-of-your-seat tension. I seriously could not put this book down!
What truly shines is the vibrant cast of young characters, each wrestling with their own regrets and hopes. The camaraderie they form is beautifully rendered, making their triumphs and setbacks emotionally impactful. It's almost too true to the teenage experience.
Beyond its compelling plot, the novel asks thought-provoking questions about authority, identity, and what it means to be human in a world run by algorithms. It’s a female-led story with warmth, fierce determination, and relevant commentary on AI and social control. The first of its kind, if I might add.
In short, The Aetherion Code is a brilliantly crafted tale that blends dystopian thrills with emotional resonance and smart world-building. It’s an ideal start to what promises to be a compelling trilogy—highly recommended!
The Aetherion Code: The Spark is the kind of book that stays with you. It’s sharp, emotional, and full of meaning. One of those stories that somehow manages to feel deeply personal while tackling ideas that are terrifyingly global. Power, control, identity, memory, connection… it weaves all of it together without ever losing its heart.
Told through multiple perspectives, the book follows a group of teenagers who’ve been cast out and sent to a penal colony on Mars. But this isn’t just a prison story. It’s about rebellion, second chances, and what happens when the next generation decides they’ve had enough. And yet it’s also so quiet and intimate at times, the way it explores grief, guilt, love, and healing. It really caught me off guard—in the best way.
I honestly wasn’t expecting to connect this deeply. Every voice felt real, every emotional beat earned. There’s something incredibly hopeful under all the dystopia too. It made me reflect on the systems we accept, the parts of ourselves we repress, and how change often starts with the people no one’s watching.
Bellamy Young and Fay Masterson crafted something special—genre-defying, thoughtful, and full of heart. If you like character-driven sci-fi with real emotional weight, this one deserves a place on your shelf.
The genre of this series isn't one I normally read. I am very much a crime/thriller reader, but this book is certainly the exception.
The storyline was something I have never read before, in the best possible way. The AI aspect, to be quite candid, had me slightly skeptical, but the way that it was written, Fay and Bellamy's re-imagining and utilizing AI as a positive felt like a breath of fresh air. You cannot help but fall in love with the AI characters! I absolutely loved how the scenes were set-up with such in-depth and easy to imagine descriptions of each location.
The characters are so beautifully comprehensive, with completely varied personalities. You fall in love with each and every one of them, and honestly, you become fully invested in their storylines. I adore how the characters were inclusive and so likeable (mostly)...
The story flows fluidly and effortlessly, and is immensely gripping.
I could not put the book down... I dare you to order it, start reading and not become completely and utterly enthralled with the whole story and characters.
I cannot express how proud I am of Fay and Bellamy for taking on this project. I cannot recommend this stunning book more.
You will not regret reading The Spark, no matter your age♥
What a ride! This is a must-read. The writing is smooth and compelling—it flows effortlessly from the first page to the last. I found it incredibly hard to put down and only did so (reluctantly) because I had to sleep.
I loved how each character was introduced with just the right amount of detail. Subtle cultural and personality clues added depth and made their global backgrounds feel authentic and relevant to the plot. That was so cleverly done! 😀
This book is a rollercoaster. There were moments I actually cheered out loud, and others that had my jaw dropping in shock because what?! — plot twists! From Earth’s controlled skies to the red dust of Mars, the stakes are high and the tension is real. The imagery of space and Martian landscapes adds a thrilling otherworldly layer to the story that makes it feel both epic and intimate.
I enjoyed every minute and now find myself impatiently waiting for the next installment. Highly recommended for fans of dystopian fiction, coming-of-age stories, and sci-fi with heart—especially if you’re ready for a story that takes rebellion out of this world, literally! 🚀🌌🪐
I want to start by saying I am not usually a big sci-fi fan! This is not my usual genre of book but I absolutely loved it.
The book had so much depth yet was super easy to read with short accessible chapters.
Despite being set largely on Mars, it felt so comforting and homelike and I could see so much representation for so many types of people in a really organic and effortless way.
The plot was engaging, exciting yet super easy to follow.
I adored all characters but I think seeing Juni and Hesters friendship develop and seeing how Juni was able to gain the courage to stand up for what she believed in was a true highlight!
The book explores key questions around AI and I loved how the challenging arguments around their role in society were explored and challenged in a really wonderful story line that didn’t feel forced or disingenuous. It didn’t impose a biased view on the topic but allowed the reader to think about their view with key arguments from both sides.
I am a huge fan of Bellamy but even if I didn’t adore her, I would love this book and recommend to any avid reader.
Congrats Bellamy and Fay! Can’t wait for the next one!
I am honored to have read this book before its publication. It was an incredibly wonderful and page-turning read. I had never read science fiction before, so I was curious about what this book would offer. And I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed discovering this new genre. I loved all the characters, their diverse backgrounds, and their unique personalities. The writing was captivating and easy to follow, and the story was both pulsating and exciting. I found myself eagerly turning the pages, unable to wait to uncover the secrets that these children held. The build-up of the first book was remarkable, and I am eagerly anticipating the release of the second book. This book is truly exceptional, and I highly recommend it. Thank you for sharing this incredible read with us!
This gripping YA sci-fi blends high stakes dystopia with the raw heart of a coming of age story. The world of 2053 is chillingly believable global mind control, manufactured weather, and a Mars-based penal colony for wayward teens. Whom I don't think should be there to begin with!!!!. The Mars setting is richly imagined, and the interplay between the rebellious juvies and the mysterious AI therapy bots adds a fresh, intriguing twist. Fast paced, emotionally charged, and thought provoking, it’s perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and The Expanse. I cannot wait for book 2. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would tbh
What a great read! I thought I had read every great YA sci-fi book out there—until I discovered The Aetherion Code! Now I can add this series to my collection.
This story from Bellamy and Fay is high concept, imaginative, and incredibly well written. I enjoyed the multiple character POVs and intersecting storylines, as well as the seamless blend of characterization, world building, and plot. You can tell within the first few pages whether a book's a keeper — this one definitely is. Thanks for the advanced reader copy, and I can't wait for the rest of the series to come out!
This book hooks you from the start and doesn’t let go. The characters are deeply relatable, with unique stories that make you root for them, even in a world with AI and robots. At its heart, the book explores the power of standing together despite differences—how, when everything shakes, we can still show up for each other and build something new from the mess. It’s a beautiful reminder that we don’t need to be the same to stand side by side. Loved it, and can’t wait for the next one! 🚀🌎✨
Loved this book so much! Every POV was compelling and every character felt unique and fleshed out, with backstories and personalities that made you care about all of them.
I read it in one sitting because I just couldn't put it down, so I'd definitely say it's worth a read!
"Forward is the only direction to go"; my favorite quote, no doubt. So true!
First, thank you to Fay and Bellamy for the ARC of the first book in this trilogy! It’s not my normal genre choice, but I was really excited to read it. That said, this book hooked me from the beginning and I really loved getting to know the characters and their stories. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see where the rest of the story goes!
Must read for all who love a futuristic view of life. Fay and Bellamy have weaved an incredible story of unique characters and situations that flow seamlessly throughout the book. Can’t wait for volume 2!
I am not sure what I was expecting when I started this book. But I can tell you that I fell in love with the characters. I was super sad to finish it, but then was super excited to know that this is a series!! I can’t wait until the next book!!
The Aetherion Code: The Spark is an extraordinary thriller with a jaw-dropping finish. The novel is the first in a trilogy, and Book One: The Spark is unputdownable. It is a fast-paced, sci-fi and romantasy journey every summer reader craves, while delivering a powerful message about humanity in all of its forms.
Sci-fi is by no means my usual genre, so it was nice to step out of my comfort zone for a bit with The Spark, the first book in the Aetherion Code series. The queer representation was a really pleasant surprise, and I think that and the found family theme will resonate with many readers. If a YA novel set on Mars with a broad cast of characters, both human and robotic, and a foray into social justice issues specifically impacting young people sounds like your kind of book, this might be up your alley.
Congrats to Fay and Bellamy on their debut, and a big thanks for providing me with an advanced copy!
First of all, I want to say thank you to Fay and Bellamy for allowing me to be an advanced reader!! It was such a privilege!
THIS. BOOK. I seriously could not put it down from the minute I started it. It was such an incredible introduction into an amazing world that Fay and Bellamy have created from the ground up. The more I read, the more I was able to truly imagine that I was there with the characters!
The concept of this book is also so unique. A world in which people are trying to integrate AI into life with humans parallels that in which we find ourselves now, not only creating a reading experience unlike any I’ve had before, but also making the book seem incredibly real and relevant!
Speaking of real and relevant, the characters are all phenomenal! They’re flawed and funny and each show you such a different perspective. Some of them form bonds that have you rooting for them, no matter what the consequences may be!
It is easy to feel the love, care, and attention that Fay and Bellamy put into writing this fantastic debut novel! I’m already itching to read Book 2, but for now I will say congratulations on publishing Book 1! It was such a privilege to read and enjoy it, and I can’t wait for others to do the same!!
Fay and Bellamy have created such a fun world to serve as a backdrop for important discussions about everything from AI, to fascism, to teen rebellion, to the pros and cons of mood altering medication.
The cast of characters in this book is unlike any I’ve seen in a fantasy series, with a wide variety of identities and backgrounds, each offering their own unique perspective to the challenges they face.
If you love science fiction and young adult literature, you’re going to love this book!