Through a Forest of Stars

Space Unbound #1

by David C. Jeffrey

Year 2217. Earth’s biosphere is dying, Mars’s terraforming projects are in ruin, resource wars are brewing, and even the discovery of voidoids—eerie neo-quantum portals into nearby star systems—has failed to yield other habitable worlds in Bound Space. But that’s about to change. Aiden Macallan, Terra Corp’s maverick planetologist aboard the survey ship Argo, is plunged to the center of a deadly conflict over a miraculous discovery in the Chara system, 27 light years from Earth. For a dying human race, Sylvanus—a singular incarnation of the Gaia Hypothesis fully realized—should be a cause for rejoicing. Instead, Unified Earth Domain and the Allied Republics of Mars are on the brink of a catastrophic war over its possession.

But Aiden has even deeper concerns. Long before his arrival in the Chara system, he’s been haunted by a recurring dream that transports him to a lush alien forest where pagan archetypes grow frighteningly real, and more personal, with each step. It’s one part of the intricate puzzle he’ll need to solve as he treks across a very real, but profoundly mysterious, landscape in a race against time to save an extraordinary world from destruction—a world that holds humanity’s last hope for survival.

Genres: Science Fiction, Fiction

444 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2021

About the author

David C. Jeffrey was born in Riverside, California, and now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. He graduated with honors in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Irvine. While pursuing a master’s degree in microbiology at the University of California, Santa Cruz, he conducted field research for the National Science Foundation in the rain forests of Costa Rica and has published in several scientific journals. He worked as a science teacher, a microbiologist, and a cardiology RN for over 25 years.
THROUGH A FOREST OF STARS is the first book in Jeffrey’s Space Unbound series, setting the hard sci-fi foundation for the sequels. It received praise from Publishers Weekly, BookLife, and others and has been compared to the works of Author C. Clarke and James S.A. Corey’s Expanse series. SUN WOLF, Book 2, and THE LIGHT WITHIN DARKNESS, Book 3, continue the hard sci-fi adventure. For more info, see: www.davidcjeffrey.com

Reviews

[Amy Farley · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received my Kindle copy of Through a Forest of Stars for free in a goodreads giveaway.

It was like reading two books at the same time, and not necessarily in a good way. The one book, the one that I enjoyed and thought "Yesssssss" when started reading was a good enough space romp of a sci fi novel. Voidoids and competition to claim a eutopia world and neuro-integrated licensed pilots. All good. Exploring alien worlds and just barely surviving, love it. I even totally bought into the sentient fungus. Clever music loving AI. Seriously bring it.

Then, the other book I was apparently reading at the same time. Wooden women characters. Mysticism. Gaia. Totally lost me on this. Totally. Not adding to the story, interfering with the narrative.

So, Mr. Jeffrey. I would love to see some more space hard sci fi from you. Delightful. But mystic fantasy? Keep it out.

Thanks.

[Ben Haskett · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I read and reviewed this book for the San Francisco Book Review.)

Through a Forest of Stars kicks off in 2217, where Earth is in rough shape and the recently settled Mars isn't doing any better. Unsure how to improve the situation on either planet, humanity explores the stars for resources. And after years of finding only rocks in neighboring star systems, the unexpected discovery of a planet-sized Garden of Eden triggers a race between Earth and Mars to claim the new world (dubbed Silvanus by its purported discoverers).

Representative ships from both planets reach Silvanus at around the same time, and a jaw-dropping series of events leaves planetary geologist Aiden Macallen the one-and-only human being on the surface. He and his AI companion Hutton discover a lush world inhabited only by plant life, including a strange, possibly sentient fungus that seems eager to provide Aiden with food and shelter. At length, he and Hutton make the startling discovery that the planet is in danger—that Silvanus is choked with life, like a sheep collapsing under its own weight, in desperate need of shearing. And Aidan, much to his surprise, may hold the key to the planet's survival.

Author David C. Jeffrey shows tremendous writing chops in his debut, combining the hard science of writers like Robert L. Forward and Andy Weir with Arthur C. Clarke's optimism, curiosity, and penchant for evolved intelligence. Suffused throughout is a style all his own, showing a downright spiritual love for nature and concern for Earth's wellbeing. The dialogue is a joy to read, especially between Aiden and Hutton, who often discuss music, how memory works, and what it means to be self-aware. And there's no "Chekov's gun" here—their thoughtful conversations foreshadow and give context to their experiences on Sylvanus, making the whole novel feel carefully crafted and satisfyingly tight.

The book occasionally cuts away from Aiden's point of view to focus on other threads, many of which I found, frankly, far less interesting. In particular, two early chapters from the point of view of Earth's president slowed the pace to a crawl with mind-numbing historical details, conveyed with the dry prose of a legal brief's statement of facts. Although these sections (which had little to do with the president herself) are clearly meant to enrich Jeffrey's crafted world and comprise only a tiny portion of the book's 441 pages, they and most of the other threads never felt salient.

Especially patient readers may have an easier time with these sporadic interruptions, while others will find themselves thumbing ahead to see when they can get back to Aiden's story. Still—and I can't stress this enough—Through a Forest of Stars is a fantastic book. In fact, my minor quibble aside, David C. Jeffrey's debut is one of the most satisfying and imaginative science fiction novels of the year.

[David Jeffrey]

EDITORIAL REVIEWS

Publishers Weekly
“Jeffrey juggles myriad story lines in his exploration of the sociopolitical ramifications of space colonization and man’s obsession with dominion over nature and each other. . . . [a] story that weaves accurate hard science with imaginative space opera. Readers will be glad to immerse themselves in Jeffrey’s immensely detailed world.” — Publishers Weekly

Publishers Weekly BookLife
"Sci-fi fans won’t regret diving into the first volume of Jeffrey’s detailed, imaginative epic of humanity’s interstellar future . . . Simultaneously a critique of twenty-first-century politics as well as a hopeful vision for the future, Through a Forest of Stars will capture readers’ imaginations thanks to its blend of classic science-fiction tropes, New Age elements, and compelling characters. SF series readers will be eager for the next installment.”
— Publishers Weekly BookLife

BlueInk Review
“David C. Jeffrey’s stellar debut novel is grand-scale science fiction adventure with a thematically profound Gaiaist bent. . . . Science fiction readers will savor this read. The scientific speculation is solid, the pacing relentless, and the earth-centered philosophy powerful. The author’s social commentary is potent, similar to post-apocalyptic classics like Nevil Shute’s On the Beach (1957) and Walter M. Miller, Jr.’s A Canticle for Leibowitz (1959). . . .
This is the first installment in Jeffrey’s Space Unbound saga, and the author leaves numerous tantalizing plot threads dangling at novel’s end. Readers are sure to enjoy this well-written, multi-layered, impactful science fiction adventure.” — BlueInk Review (STARRED REVIEW)

San Francisco Book Review
“Through a Forest of Stars is a fantastic book. . . . David C. Jeffrey's debut is one of the most satisfying and imaginative science fiction novels of the year. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy today.” — Ben Haskett for San Francisco Book Review

Kirkus Reviews
“In debut author Jeffrey’s SF series starter, war is brewing as a corporate space explorer makes extraordinary discoveries on a newly discovered, Earth-like planet. . . brisk, urgent pacing . . . an action-packed climax . . . Polished environmentalist SF . . . thrills and wonder.” — Kirkus Reviews

Independent Book Review
“Political intrigue and a fascinating alien world combine to make for a rousing speculative adventure. The scope of Through a Forest of Stars is vast. It’s an epic story that encompasses multiple worlds, a wide range of characters, a desperate and dying Earth, and plenty of space exploration. . . .
One thing that stands out in this novel is the science. The author, David C. Jeffrey, clearly knows what he’s talking about when it comes to astronomy, biology, physics, and future technologies. The world built in this novel feels authentic. . . .
Through A Forest of Stars is a little bit of an adventure, a little bit post-apocalyptic, a little bit of political intrigue, and a whole lot of fun. The careful balance of these elements creates a monumental journey that sweeps readers along for a great ride.” — By Joelene Pynnonen for Independent Book Review

“An original and thrilling space drama. Channeling endearing humanoid-robot relationships from ‘Star Wars,’ future tech from ‘The Expanse,’ and philosophical questions about cosmic exploration and our relationship with nature that would make Asimov and Heinlein tip their caps, this book is far more than sci-fi pulp. Jeffrey is able to take classic sci-fi storylines and give them each a deep breath of original life. The pacing is kept high, and Jeffrey knows how to ramp up adrenaline at the turn of a page. For those who love real science in their science fiction, this book will not disappoint. Through a Forest of Stars is polished, well-paced, unpredictable, and thrilling, making it an excellent launching point for Jeffrey’s sprawling new series.” — Self-Publishing Review


4.5 Stars. “David C. Jeffrey’s inventive, intricate plots and world creation in THROUGH A FOREST OF STARS are definitely worth exploration in this first series volume, as the characters and plots are both complex and fascinating.” — Kathleen Kenney Peterson for IndieReader


Seattle Book Review
“David Jeffrey has created a science fiction fan’s dream in Through a Forest of Stars, with multiple storylines going on; some great world building; and interesting characters that you find yourself caring about and rooting for. And the good news is, this is the first book in the series, with the second book, Sun Wolf, already out.” — Alex Telander, Seattle Book Review

“One of the features which I found particularly impressive about this piece was the author’s ability to balance the classic approach to science fiction with the fast hook appeal of the modern blockbuster, weaving an intricate storyline of clever concepts and relevant issues alongside dynamic, action-packed scenes and high-octane thrills.” — K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

“Reminiscent of the likes of Arthur C. Clarke, Through a Forest of Stars, takes the reader on a journey into the future based on sound scientific principles. . . The book is fascinating and holds the reader's interest . . . The cosmic politics involved in the competing interests for the planet are well developed and complex and add urgency to the story. . . If you love space fiction, especially with a good dose of science in it, this book is well worth reading.” — Adam Wright, for Reedsy Discover

“Through a Forest of Stars is a thought-provoking and introspective take on space exploration that instantly pulls you in with a riveting story and some wonderfully imaginative worldbuilding … Sci-fi fans should adore Through a Forest of Stars. I did, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.” — Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite

[Kyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to start off by stating that I received this novel through a Goodreads give away.

If you like technical science fiction dealing with both physics and biology this book is for you.

The story starts off fast, but slows down a bit in the middle. The biological jargon can get a little heavy even though the author tries to explain everything in simple terms. The description of the main character is a little confusing. At the beginning he is described as a loner, but as the story progresses this description does not hold true.

It is clear by the ending that the author plans to continue writing in this universe. Certain aspects of the universe are left vague on purpose. while others are fleshed out a little too much.

This is a good story, but I never connected with the characters and at points just wanted the story to end. It felt like pieces from other science fiction stories were used, but not established fully.

[DarthVixReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so very goooooood.

Through A Forest of Stars was definitely a page turner that kept me engaged throughout. The story is told through alternating perspectives which is my cup of tea. Each perspective handles multiple storylines that blended seamlessly and each was equally interesting to me.

I'm excited to see where these storylines go throughout the next 2 books. Literally ordering Sun Wolf when I get off this app.

This book had alot of interesting things: Humanity's quest to find a new eden among the stars after causing the destruction of our home and resources, first contact, mysticism, political machinations, a sprinkle of romance, AI awareness...and I could go on but all good, yummy things I love to sink my teeth into in a space opera. I loved the hard Sci Fi aspects of this and am so excited to learn more in the sequel. I definitely want to hear more about the zero point drive, the voidoids, and the workings of the Sun Wolf!

If you're looking for a great indie Sci Fi read, give this one a read!

[tricia · Rating 2 out of 5]

the prose was very hard to enjoy, it felt like everything was being explained in very obvious terms, and with often trite metaphor. Example:

"Now he was laughing loudly. Tears of mirth fell burning from his eyes like molten lava. Unbearable time passed before Brahmin's eruption finally subsided into smoldering silence. He stood from the command chair and turned to Spencer, a mixture of fatigue and venom corroding his face. 'You have the bridge, Spencer. I trust you won't do anything foolish.'

The moment Brahmin left the bridge, Spencer collapsed forward holding his head in his hands as the nightmare began to clarify. Brahman didn't want to seize control of Silvanus. Not for Terra Corp or anyone else. He wanted to destroy it. But why? Spencer couldn't even begin to make sense of it. Brahman clearly meant to win some twisted game of his own design, some all-or -nothing coup. The thought of it struck terror deep inside Spencer, beyond the fear of his own death, as of his family -- the family of humankind -- were threatened by some nameless but insurmountable evil.

He forced himself to accept the fear, and his resolve hardened. He had to stop the madness. The small wooden pentacle hanging at his chest beneath his jumpsuit felt hot against his skin. The vision of the pentacle in his mind calmed him and allowed him to focus on his bond with Gaia. Impossibly far from Mother Earth, alone and facing the greatest of dangers, he found his connection with her stronger than ever. His mind cleared. He examined his options."

the premise and plot of this book had great possibility, but the writing made it too unenjoyable, i just couldn't continue. show, don't tell, my dude!

[Mike Heyd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the "golden age" of science fiction is long past, there seems to be more of the stuff being published than ever. Sadly, a lot of it is amateurish, much of it is romance fiction thinly disguised as sci fi, and it's becoming harder and harder to find a science fiction novel that is not the beginning of a series written more for the desire to sell books than to expand the genre's boundaries.

Through a Forest of Stars is more ambitious than most of the science fiction I've read in recent years. It's a pretty interesting other-worlds tale that weaves together environmental disaster, Gaia philosophy, the dangers of unrestrained capitalism, and the unfortunate propensity of human beings to carry their baggage with them to the stars. There's a romance element in this book but it's not overwhelming, and there's a dollop of the paranormal, but overall it's a nice mix of adventure and ideas. It's not an obvious transplant from Dodge City to outer space; its setting is integral to the tale.

I enjoyed reading this book, which I won for free in a Goodreads giveaway. Mr. Jeffrey may well decide to write a sequel, and if he does, in this case it's OK with me.

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through a Forest of Stars explores the depth of space and nature through a scientific lens, including the nature of humanity and our potential for great good and great evil. I really enjoyed how the story raises great questions about our relationship with the Earth and the greater cosmos. The characters are fascinating and help propel the questions and story well.

[Slick Dungeon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the year 2217 and humanity is almost out of chances. Earth is dying and while there are colonies on other planets, humans have yet to find a planet as habitable as their own home. However, the discovery of what may be a suitable, Earth-like planet may change everything. As governments, scientists, and private companies all vying for the first stakes in the planet collide, Aidan Macallan finds himself wrapped up in the center of things, perhaps the only person in a position to understand the new planet and with the ability to avoid a war that would lead to the utter destruction of all of humankind.

Reminiscent of the likes of Arthur C. Clarke, Through a Forest of Stars, takes the reader on a journey into the future based on sound scientific principles. There are several competing interests who all want to be the first to understand, and in some cases possess, the resources on a newly discovered planet. What this planet is and just how similar to Earth it is, remains in question. Aidan works on a survey team and is used to the isolation of space but this new planet is something else entirely. When he becomes the first human with the chance to experience and understand it, he is going to need all the help he can get. Unfortunately, he is cut off from most contact, other than with the Artificial Intelligence that helps him to run his ship.

The book is fascinating and holds the reader's interest, although there are times when the science can be a bit overwhelming. If you are a fan of hard science fiction though, this will not bother you. The cosmic politics involved in the competing interests for the planet are well developed and complex and add urgency to the story. The fantastical is here as well, as Aidan is guided by recurring dreams and nightmares that seem to be urging him to act before it is too late.

If you love space fiction, especially with a good dose of science in it, this book is well worth reading. If you love Arthur C. Clarke or To Be Taught if Fortunate by Becky Chambers, you should add Through a Forest of Stars to your read list.

[Frank Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good debut but a bit obviously a debut.

I thoroughly enjoyed the scientific approach, exposition came in good sized chunks, mechanisms were explained well.

I thought all the alien stuff was pretty good too, an Earth 2.0 is discovered and the flora there are very interesting. Take the sentient mycology from Star Trek 'Discovery' and the universally connected vegetation from 'Semiosis' and you get something like this. To be honest I preferred the presentation of both here.

Also, the crew was pretty cool. I liked Aiden and his pet AI mostly. I found some of the other characters good but perhaps not fully internally consistent.

As for the background corporate/political drama. It sets the stage, I guess, but then really does get out of the way for the story and only reappears as an afterthought to be tidied up after events on the new planet habe been taken care of. That's probably a good thing except that it makes the end of the story a bit hand-wavey.

After all is said and done the book goes on to commit one of the 7 deadly book sins, by continuing well past the climax and simply going about moving pawns into position for the next book. Maybe that means book two will hit the ground running? In any case, I do intend to continue the series, just not right away.

[Stefanie Bevins · Rating 2 out of 5]

I struggled with this book. I made it about 60 pages in or so. I was not able to connect with the character's and it seemed like it was a bit all over the place in terms of organization and like other's have mentioned, it seemed like the two story lines crossed too much. I respect the author for venturing out and writing this type of novel, however, there was just a lot I didn't understand and it hurt my brain too much to try to figure out what was going on.

*I received this novel through a Goodreads give away

[C]

Didn't finish this book, it really wasn't my thing. The hard sci-fi components were fun, but the spiritual side wasn't. Most characters other than the protagonist felt hollow, particularly women. I also got the sense that the author believes readers can't be trusted to make inferences or pick up on any themes that aren't stated as directly and frequently as possible. On top of that, body characteristics like fatness are used to signal the character's morality, which I don't like at all.

[Karla Angel · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF- this one is not for me. The writing style wasn’t my jam (a mix of too much technical jargon and too much poetic prose). I also am not into the whole “I’m a dude and instantly women want me” vibe which granted, wasn’t as bad as other books, but still. Why can’t we have a super smart female character who isn’t sexually attracted to the main guy?

[Steve Bender · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iwon this ebook in a Goodreads Giveaway. It is a 250 years in the future SF story about mankind after he ruins the ecology of earth. Interesting concepts, but a little too much Gaia for me. Good read.

[John Wegener · Rating 3 out of 5]

A reasonable read but the story was marred by too much expository description of ecosystems and biological information, which was interesting but slowed the story, edged on irrelevance and felt like the book was being padded at times. The concept of ftl travel through voidoids was interesting.

[Rani · Rating 2 out of 5]

Won in a goodreads giveaway I just couldn't ever get into this book. It wasn't badly written, and I don't think it was particularly boring. I just couldn't connect with the story.

[Thomasin Propson]

Setting this one aside after 30-ish pages. I'm interested, but this isn't the right time for me to concentrate on a hard sci-fi novel.

[N. Glass · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was entertaining, though it dragged a little and could have been a more enjoyable read if a little shorter. It was fun and had an interesting plot development.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Goodreads giveaways for this free e-book!

I enjoyed this futuristic sci-fi adventure set in space! 4 stars

There were some things I didn't like- for one, I struggled to connect with the characters for most of the book and sometimes the dialogue felt kind of stiff.
I really liked the parts that took place on the actual planet though, the descriptions were so vivid and colorful!
A bit disjointed at times, but a cool story overall.

---KittyMeowMeow

[Clipinchick]

I received this book for free from the author/publisher in response for an honest review of the book. I have not had the opportunity to read this book at this time. I will add my
review of this book once I have read the book. Thank k you for allowing me the optometrist review your work. I look forward to reading this book.