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Reunion On Neverend
In Neverend's underground colony, a technological laboratory on the edge of the universe, science and courage are used to unlock the secrets of the cosmos, while one man journeys to his homeland to take up a long-forgotten battle. Reprint.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 15, 1994
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270 people want to read
About the author
John E. Stith
24 books57 followersPUSHBACK , a mystery-suspense novel, was published in November 2018 and is a finalist for the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense, mainstream category.
PUSHBACK : At his ten-year high-school reunion, an investment counselor finds he doesn't know one person there, and soon realizes he must outwit an unknown antagonist who wants him dead.
"...unsettling Hitchcockian thriller...Judicious use of humor provides some relief from the dark plot line. Fans of Daniel Palmer-esque intelligent suspense will be pleased." -- Publishers Weekly
"Ordinary Hijacked by Extraordinary, With Comedy... what’s most captivating about PUSHBACK is that even with people like Dave Barlow—just an average guy doing average things—life can take a shocking turn for the worse. But the book reminds us that, also like Dave, we have the power to turn it right-side up again, with humor at the center of our inner strength." -- The Big Thrill, magazine of International Thriller Writers
Science-fiction author John E. Stith's works include REDSHIFT RENDEZVOUS (Nebula Award nominee from Ace Books), MANHATTAN TRANSFER (Hugo Award Honorable Mention from Tor Books), REUNION ON NEVEREND, and RECKONING INFINITY (on Science Fiction Chronicle's Best Science Fiction Novels list for its publication year, on the Nebula Award preliminary ballot).
His other novels are SCAPESCOPE, MEMORY BLANK, DEATH TOLLS, and DEEP QUARRY.
He's the author of ALL FOR NAUGHT, which collects "Naught for Hire," and "Naught Again" both first appearing in ANALOG. If you hear about "Naught for Hire" verbally, you might think the title is "Not for Hire" but it's not. Check out the Naught for Hire website for even more info on the upcoming webisode series starring Ben Browder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 26, 2024
I have read Stith's Manhattan Transfer more than once and really like it, so I thought I would give one a try. While not terrible, the rife clichés and old tropes, plus the lack-luster characters, made this pretty meh for me. Stith had (has?) a rep for penning hard science fiction, but this read more like a bad thriller with some futuristic elements. Our lead, Lan, starts the novel returning to Neverend, a small colony on a dismal planet constructed entirely underground. Born and raised there, Lan fled as soon as he finished high school and never looked back, except for his pining over a gal there (one Tessa). He is returning for his 10th year high school anniversary.
This starts with a prologue where some guy gets killed in a museum on Neverland; turns out it was Tessa's adopted father (long story). Anyway, Lan gets in and meets some old chums. Lots of yuk yuks over the good ole days (yawn). At the reunion itself, Lan runs into some other 'friends' from school, but no Tessa. He finds out that she is still on Neverend, but keeps a very low profile. After some digging, Lan finds out she now works at the museum and locates here there. Something is really bothering her. Apparently someone has access to the museum (how? open question) and moves things around. Further, after her 'father's' murder, someone tried to buy the museum. Repeatedly. Then the threats came. Tessa, the 'classic' lady in distress finely admits this to Lan.
While Stith can write hard science fiction (although little of that is present here), romance is not his forte, and the one between Lan and Tessa? Please. The action sequences are ok, but not enough to carry the book, especially given the thin plot. Even though this was published in 1994, it has a definite golden age adventure feel to it, but so many other authors just did it better. 2 trite stars.
This starts with a prologue where some guy gets killed in a museum on Neverland; turns out it was Tessa's adopted father (long story). Anyway, Lan gets in and meets some old chums. Lots of yuk yuks over the good ole days (yawn). At the reunion itself, Lan runs into some other 'friends' from school, but no Tessa. He finds out that she is still on Neverend, but keeps a very low profile. After some digging, Lan finds out she now works at the museum and locates here there. Something is really bothering her. Apparently someone has access to the museum (how? open question) and moves things around. Further, after her 'father's' murder, someone tried to buy the museum. Repeatedly. Then the threats came. Tessa, the 'classic' lady in distress finely admits this to Lan.
While Stith can write hard science fiction (although little of that is present here), romance is not his forte, and the one between Lan and Tessa? Please. The action sequences are ok, but not enough to carry the book, especially given the thin plot. Even though this was published in 1994, it has a definite golden age adventure feel to it, but so many other authors just did it better. 2 trite stars.
July 28, 2023
I don't particularly mind 90's thrillers, but I like to know ahead of time when I'll be reading one. *Reunion on Neverend* by John E. Stith, sadly, did not warn me; in fact, its packaging told me to expect hard science fiction and grandly cosmic ideas, and the back of the book was vague enough that I thought this just *had* to be good when I saw it at my favorite used bookshop in Tennessee. Well, lo and behold, despite what Orson Scott Card and Dan Simmons said about Stith, this book is *not* grand and is *not* conceptually interesting and is definitely not hard science fiction. Now, stop rolling your eyes; I don't have a stick up my butt about genre classification. Well, sometimes I do, but that stick doesn't stop me from enjoying a good story. If this had turned out to be a fantastical romance I wouldn't have been upset if it was still a good book. The problem is, I don't think this was a good book. While I do have an extra bit of anti-*Reunion on Neverend* fervor because of the misleading expectations, 99 percent of my complaints come from the book's own faults. Before I tell you what those are, though, a quick recap of the book (with spoilers for the latter parts blacked out).
This book starts on a flight to Neverend, an inhabited asteroid or something on the edge of... civilization, or something like that. Aboard the flight are two men returning to Neverend for the future's equivalent of a high school reunion. One man, our main character, has a shadowy secret and is returning with the hope of reuniting with his old flame, whose father - a museum owner - was recently shot. The other man is an obnoxious but supposedly loveable joker. They end up at the reunion and they end up saving one of their old classmates from their creepy and arrogant ex-husband before our main character goes to the museum to meet his old flame. She's happy enough to see him, especially when he starts investigating the gang activity and mysterious threats that have been occurring around the museum. He might dig a little *too* far, though, since he finds out that the people who've been trying to buy the museum really want . All with a healthy dose of 90's thriller vibes.
Those vibes are definitely propagated by the prose as well as the scattershot, forgetful plot. On the prose side: things were simple and direct without much explanation. There was no real world-building to speak of, mostly vague references to things that didn't really affect the plot. The dialogue was... fine, but it felt like a bunch of people from the 90's speaking, not human beings from the future. The action, which was actually a lot less prevalent than you would think (since I keep calling this a 90's thriller), wasn't all that special when it came about. It was just kind of... there. This is the kinda book that's just kinda there. There's writing, there's wooden characters, there's a futuristic SF setting, but things aren't... there.
Quick note on what a "forgetful plot," a term I just whipped up, means: basically, it's when parts of the story are brought up and then are forgotten for the rest of the book. For example, this could be a certain character or a part of someone's past that you think the author would return to in order to build momentum for that character's internal growth. This wasn't the most forgetful plot that I've ever read, but it did seem like it went from one thing to the next with little lack of regard for what came before, like the gangs, or the incredible revelations that should've been made. There's just a lack of seriousness here.
That lack of seriousness is also apparent in the villains of this story, who were probably the tipping point for any chance of salvaging this book. They're just... they're like the crooks from *Home Alone* but with a "will-they-or-won't-they" trope pasted on top of them. Now, I love the guys from *Home Alone*, but that doesn't mean that their archetypes belong on a serious science fiction thriller. Not that this book can keep itself too serious, though, which these clowns running around.
Now, for all the pissing and moaning I've done in this review, I do have to say that I didn't hate this book. I didn't actively dislike reading this, and it wasn't painful to get through, just bland and discouraging. Still, bland and discouraging and objectively wasteful and, I think, poor, earns a 5/10 in my book. I am definitely disappointed with my first experience from John E. Stith, and don't know if I will read any more of his work. Now, if I find his biggest novel (*Manhattan Transfer*) out in the wild in good shape, there's a good chance I pick it up in order to have his most significant contribution in my hopefully all-encompassing library. But if that doesn't happen, I think I'd die a happy man knowing that I only read one John E. Stith book. Still, everyone deserves a second chance. And, to leave you on a positive note, if there's one positive about this book, it's this: it isn't as unending as the title suggests...
This book starts on a flight to Neverend, an inhabited asteroid or something on the edge of... civilization, or something like that. Aboard the flight are two men returning to Neverend for the future's equivalent of a high school reunion. One man, our main character, has a shadowy secret and is returning with the hope of reuniting with his old flame, whose father - a museum owner - was recently shot. The other man is an obnoxious but supposedly loveable joker. They end up at the reunion and they end up saving one of their old classmates from their creepy and arrogant ex-husband before our main character goes to the museum to meet his old flame. She's happy enough to see him, especially when he starts investigating the gang activity and mysterious threats that have been occurring around the museum. He might dig a little *too* far, though, since he finds out that the people who've been trying to buy the museum really want . All with a healthy dose of 90's thriller vibes.
Those vibes are definitely propagated by the prose as well as the scattershot, forgetful plot. On the prose side: things were simple and direct without much explanation. There was no real world-building to speak of, mostly vague references to things that didn't really affect the plot. The dialogue was... fine, but it felt like a bunch of people from the 90's speaking, not human beings from the future. The action, which was actually a lot less prevalent than you would think (since I keep calling this a 90's thriller), wasn't all that special when it came about. It was just kind of... there. This is the kinda book that's just kinda there. There's writing, there's wooden characters, there's a futuristic SF setting, but things aren't... there.
Quick note on what a "forgetful plot," a term I just whipped up, means: basically, it's when parts of the story are brought up and then are forgotten for the rest of the book. For example, this could be a certain character or a part of someone's past that you think the author would return to in order to build momentum for that character's internal growth. This wasn't the most forgetful plot that I've ever read, but it did seem like it went from one thing to the next with little lack of regard for what came before, like the gangs, or the incredible revelations that should've been made. There's just a lack of seriousness here.
That lack of seriousness is also apparent in the villains of this story, who were probably the tipping point for any chance of salvaging this book. They're just... they're like the crooks from *Home Alone* but with a "will-they-or-won't-they" trope pasted on top of them. Now, I love the guys from *Home Alone*, but that doesn't mean that their archetypes belong on a serious science fiction thriller. Not that this book can keep itself too serious, though, which these clowns running around.
Now, for all the pissing and moaning I've done in this review, I do have to say that I didn't hate this book. I didn't actively dislike reading this, and it wasn't painful to get through, just bland and discouraging. Still, bland and discouraging and objectively wasteful and, I think, poor, earns a 5/10 in my book. I am definitely disappointed with my first experience from John E. Stith, and don't know if I will read any more of his work. Now, if I find his biggest novel (*Manhattan Transfer*) out in the wild in good shape, there's a good chance I pick it up in order to have his most significant contribution in my hopefully all-encompassing library. But if that doesn't happen, I think I'd die a happy man knowing that I only read one John E. Stith book. Still, everyone deserves a second chance. And, to leave you on a positive note, if there's one positive about this book, it's this: it isn't as unending as the title suggests...
October 11, 2019
Reviewed by Lori
Book provided by the author
I really liked this book, and I feel that this book was the most romantic out of any of the books that I read for this author. As a reminder, these books are not romance, they are sci-fi, and I have really enjoyed reading Mr. Stith’s work.
Lan and Tessa have always had feelings for each other since high school. Lan left the planet to live elsewhere, while Tessa stayed. They both had a lot of growing up to do during the years after high school till the reunion. They both grew as people separately, and they discovered new things about each other when they met up again.
Lan was an easy character to like. He was smart, funny, quick witted, but not a jerk about it. He learned to be unassuming, and the reader will find out why when they read the book. Lan was a very nice character to get to know, a real gentleman.
Tessa was also a character that was easy to like. I liked her because she was tough, and resilient, and didn’t back down from challenges in her life, and faced them bravely. She didn’t go around halfcocked, and do anything silly, she was smart, tried to keep a level head, and wasn’t stubborn enough to not ask for help.
The secondary characters in this book really helped carry the story along. They were smart, funny, and were there to help Lan and Tessa out when they needed it. Those are great friends to have.
I liked the name of the planet the characters were all from, Neverend, it reminded me of Neverland.
Give this book a try; I think you’ll like it. I think reading about second chances for love, needs a chance to be read.
Book provided by the author
I really liked this book, and I feel that this book was the most romantic out of any of the books that I read for this author. As a reminder, these books are not romance, they are sci-fi, and I have really enjoyed reading Mr. Stith’s work.
Lan and Tessa have always had feelings for each other since high school. Lan left the planet to live elsewhere, while Tessa stayed. They both had a lot of growing up to do during the years after high school till the reunion. They both grew as people separately, and they discovered new things about each other when they met up again.
Lan was an easy character to like. He was smart, funny, quick witted, but not a jerk about it. He learned to be unassuming, and the reader will find out why when they read the book. Lan was a very nice character to get to know, a real gentleman.
Tessa was also a character that was easy to like. I liked her because she was tough, and resilient, and didn’t back down from challenges in her life, and faced them bravely. She didn’t go around halfcocked, and do anything silly, she was smart, tried to keep a level head, and wasn’t stubborn enough to not ask for help.
The secondary characters in this book really helped carry the story along. They were smart, funny, and were there to help Lan and Tessa out when they needed it. Those are great friends to have.
I liked the name of the planet the characters were all from, Neverend, it reminded me of Neverland.
Give this book a try; I think you’ll like it. I think reading about second chances for love, needs a chance to be read.
October 9, 2025
I finished this book at two in the morning and couldn’t sleep for a while after, not because it was frightening, but because it was alive. The world, the characters, the dialogue, everything John E. Stith creates in Reunion on Neverend feels like it has a pulse. The story carries a kind of energy that’s hard to describe, you don’t just read it, you experience it.
From the first chapter, I could see everything so clearly in my mind that it felt more like watching a beautifully directed movie than reading a book. Yet the emotional connection was deeper than anything you could capture on screen. The characters felt real, flawed, funny, human, and their relationships carried the kind of quiet emotional weight that sneaks up on you. The way Stith blends science fiction, romance, and mystery is seamless, and his pacing is flawless. You never feel lost, but you’re always curious to see what’s next.
The dialogue sparkles with wit and warmth, the humor lands naturally, and the moments of tension are so well timed that I found myself holding my breath without realizing it. But beneath all the excitement, there’s a tenderness in this book, an underlying current of hope, forgiveness, and rediscovery that gives it soul.
By the end, I realized this wasn’t just a story about a man returning to a distant colony; it was about confronting who you used to be and finding peace with it. It’s about love, memory, and the parts of ourselves we think we’ve left behind. That’s what makes Reunion on Neverend more than just good science fiction, it’s human fiction.
Mr. Stith, if you happen to read this: thank you. You didn’t just tell a story, you reminded me why stories matter. You gave me back a small piece of that childlike wonder I thought I’d lost, and I’ll carry that feeling with me for a long time.
From the first chapter, I could see everything so clearly in my mind that it felt more like watching a beautifully directed movie than reading a book. Yet the emotional connection was deeper than anything you could capture on screen. The characters felt real, flawed, funny, human, and their relationships carried the kind of quiet emotional weight that sneaks up on you. The way Stith blends science fiction, romance, and mystery is seamless, and his pacing is flawless. You never feel lost, but you’re always curious to see what’s next.
The dialogue sparkles with wit and warmth, the humor lands naturally, and the moments of tension are so well timed that I found myself holding my breath without realizing it. But beneath all the excitement, there’s a tenderness in this book, an underlying current of hope, forgiveness, and rediscovery that gives it soul.
By the end, I realized this wasn’t just a story about a man returning to a distant colony; it was about confronting who you used to be and finding peace with it. It’s about love, memory, and the parts of ourselves we think we’ve left behind. That’s what makes Reunion on Neverend more than just good science fiction, it’s human fiction.
Mr. Stith, if you happen to read this: thank you. You didn’t just tell a story, you reminded me why stories matter. You gave me back a small piece of that childlike wonder I thought I’d lost, and I’ll carry that feeling with me for a long time.
October 9, 2025
When I closed Reunion on Neverend, I just sat there for a few minutes, quiet, thinking about how rare it is to find a book that connects both the head and the heart. John E. Stith didn’t just write a science-fiction adventure, he wrote about nostalgia, regret, second chances, and the unshakable pull of the past. The setting may be another world, but the emotions are painfully human. The way he captures that awkward, hopeful feeling of returning to a place you once called home, only to realize both you and it have changed, that hit hard.
The mystery kept me turning pages, but it was the tenderness underneath that stayed with me. Every scene, every character, every plot twist shows how much care and brilliance went into this story. This is a book that deserves to be celebrated and hyped because it’s not just entertaining, it’s profound, thoughtful, and unforgettable.
I genuinely feel grateful to have read this. Mr. Stith, if you ever see this review: thank you for reminding me why stories matter, and for creating something that is not just good, it is truly remarkable. You’ve crafted a masterpiece that deserves every bit of attention and admiration.
The mystery kept me turning pages, but it was the tenderness underneath that stayed with me. Every scene, every character, every plot twist shows how much care and brilliance went into this story. This is a book that deserves to be celebrated and hyped because it’s not just entertaining, it’s profound, thoughtful, and unforgettable.
I genuinely feel grateful to have read this. Mr. Stith, if you ever see this review: thank you for reminding me why stories matter, and for creating something that is not just good, it is truly remarkable. You’ve crafted a masterpiece that deserves every bit of attention and admiration.
October 9, 2025
This novel isn’t just good, it’s comforting. There’s a warmth in John E. Stith’s storytelling that feels almost old-fashioned in the best way, like returning to a classic adventure but with the honesty and heart of modern fiction. The hero’s journey back to his old world, and the way past and present weave together, really touched me. The pacing moves quickly but never feels rushed, it pauses when it needs to, letting the emotions breathe.
This is science fiction that believes in people: in redemption, in love, and in doing the right thing even when no one is watching. When I finished, I honestly wanted to shake the author’s hand and thank him for reminding me why I fell in love with stories in the first place.
And truly, if it wasn’t for Emmanuel Brooke bringing this book into our community, I might never have discovered it. I’m so grateful he did, because Reunion on Neverend is one of those rare books that restores your faith in good storytelling, and in the people who share it.
This is science fiction that believes in people: in redemption, in love, and in doing the right thing even when no one is watching. When I finished, I honestly wanted to shake the author’s hand and thank him for reminding me why I fell in love with stories in the first place.
And truly, if it wasn’t for Emmanuel Brooke bringing this book into our community, I might never have discovered it. I’m so grateful he did, because Reunion on Neverend is one of those rare books that restores your faith in good storytelling, and in the people who share it.
October 9, 2025
Some books simply entertain, others make you think, but Reunion on Neverend does both and still manages to reach your heart. John E. Stith has written something truly special here: a sci-fi story that feels personal, emotional, and full of life.
The plot moves fast, but the feelings run deep. It’s about confronting your past, forgiving yourself, and finding courage and love again in the most unexpected place. The dialogue feels natural, the pacing perfect, and the world Stith creates is vivid without ever overshadowing the humanity at its core.
By the time I reached the end, I didn’t want to leave these characters behind. This isn’t just good science fiction, it’s a story that lingers, quietly, after you close the book. Thank you, John E. Stith, for creating something timeless and heartfelt. You’ve earned a lifelong reader.
The plot moves fast, but the feelings run deep. It’s about confronting your past, forgiving yourself, and finding courage and love again in the most unexpected place. The dialogue feels natural, the pacing perfect, and the world Stith creates is vivid without ever overshadowing the humanity at its core.
By the time I reached the end, I didn’t want to leave these characters behind. This isn’t just good science fiction, it’s a story that lingers, quietly, after you close the book. Thank you, John E. Stith, for creating something timeless and heartfelt. You’ve earned a lifelong reader.
October 9, 2025
John E. Stith’s Reunion on Neverend is an absolute joy for any sci-fi fan. The story pulls you into a distant colony where a man returns for a high school reunion, only to discover his old flame in trouble. What makes this book stand out is the perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and subtle humor. The characters are human and relatable, even in a futuristic setting. Stith’s writing is precise yet warm, making you feel every twist and turn. The pacing is spot on, and the world-building is immersive without ever overwhelming you with technical details. I especially loved how the romance was natural and not forced, giving the story a layer of emotional depth alongside the adventure. Truly a five-star read.
October 9, 2025
I absolutely loved the pacing and energy of this book. Reunion on Neverend grabs you right from the start and doesn’t let go. The story balances mystery, romance, and sci-fi adventure in a way that feels effortless. The protagonist returning to a distant colony for a high school reunion is such a clever premise, it’s relatable yet allows for plenty of space for danger, suspense, and personal growth. Stith’s writing has this light humor that makes the characters charming without being silly. I also appreciated how the setting felt real: the colony is fully fleshed out with cultural and environmental details that make it feel like a lived-in world. This is one of those rare books that is exciting, heartwarming, and thoughtful all at once.
October 9, 2025
There’s a pulse to Stith’s writing, a quiet rhythm that builds until you’re completely absorbed. I found myself rereading certain paragraphs because the phrasing was so clean and elegant. The story’s structure is tight, yet it never feels mechanical. The mystery unfolds naturally, the romantic tension builds slowly, and the humor glimmers just enough to make you smile. What I admire most is how Reunion on Neverend feels both nostalgic and futuristic at once. It reminds me why character-driven sci-fi is timeless.
Thank you, John E. Stith, for proving again that intelligence and heart can coexist in the same story. And a special thanks to Brooke for bringing this incredible book to our community, without you, we might never have discovered this gem.
Thank you, John E. Stith, for proving again that intelligence and heart can coexist in the same story. And a special thanks to Brooke for bringing this incredible book to our community, without you, we might never have discovered this gem.
October 9, 2025
This book is a perfect example of character-driven science fiction. The protagonist is thrown into a scenario that’s both personal and extraordinary, and Stith handles it with elegance. The tension is consistent, and the humor and romance are interwoven naturally. I also appreciated the way the setting feels futuristic yet tangible, details like the colony’s environment and cultural touches make it vivid. There’s enough science to satisfy a curious reader without slowing down the story, and the suspense is gripping. The ending is satisfying, tying together all threads neatly while leaving just enough wonder. Definitely one of Stith’s best works.
October 9, 2025
Reunion on Neverend excels in blending genres. It has the suspense of a thriller, the heart of a romance, and the imagination of classic science fiction. Stith’s dialogue is lively, and the narrative is easy to follow while still providing depth. The story’s tension builds naturally, and the interactions between characters are realistic and relatable. The world itself is rich but never over-explained, letting the reader fill in the blanks and immerse fully. I especially enjoyed the mix of humor and danger, it felt balanced and thoughtful. Five stars for a well-crafted and highly enjoyable book.
October 9, 2025
This novel is everything I look for in a science fiction adventure: suspense, humor, romance, and a richly imagined world. Stith writes with a clarity and wit that makes the story easy to follow, but the plot is complex and satisfying. The high school reunion setup is a brilliant idea that adds emotional weight to the narrative, and the protagonist’s decisions and struggles feel genuine and compelling. The colony feels alive, and the dialogue is lively and realistic. There are moments that made me laugh, moments that made me tense, and moments that made me genuinely care about the characters. A complete and satisfying five-star experience.
October 9, 2025
From the first few pages, I could tell this book was something different. The writing is crisp, the pacing addictive, and the emotional beats land perfectly. What really impressed me was how Stith manages tone, one chapter will have you laughing at a witty exchange, and the next will grip you with tension or quiet heartbreak. The science feels plausible, the mystery intriguing, but what ties it all together is compassion. Stith writes with warmth, even when describing danger or betrayal. That balance between empathy and adventure is what separates good authors from great ones. This book deserves every bit of praise it gets.
October 9, 2025
Every now and then, you stumble across a book that feels like a friend. That’s what Reunion on Neverend was for me. I connected deeply with the main character’s quiet loneliness and sense of duty. The mix of nostalgia and suspense pulled me right in, but it’s the subtle emotional honesty that really left a mark. John E. Stith doesn’t just tell a story, he builds a mirror where you can see your own choices, regrets, and what-ifs reflected back at you. I loved the balance between the high-stakes sci-fi elements and the small, human moments. This is one of those rare books that makes you feel smarter and softer at the same time.
October 9, 2025
I don’t usually write reviews, but this book deserves it. The balance between humor, suspense, and genuine human emotion is near perfect. Stith has a way of writing dialogue that feels completely natural, almost as if you’re eavesdropping on real people. The world he builds is vivid, filled with texture and believable technology, but it never overshadows the heart of the story. The reunion theme makes the book universally relatable, everyone has someone from their past they wonder about. The way Stith uses that universal feeling as the emotional engine for a sci-fi mystery is genius. I finished the book smiling, moved, and completely satisfied.
October 9, 2025
I went into this book expecting solid sci-fi adventure; what I found was a perfectly balanced blend of suspense, humor, and genuine heart. The world-building is crisp and believable, and the pacing makes you forget you’re reading, you just live the story. Every chapter feels cinematic, and yet the emotional depth of the characters keeps it grounded. John E. Stith writes like someone who truly loves people, not just plots. His dialogue sparkles with warmth and wit. The reunion premise works beautifully as a metaphor for rediscovery, of self, of love, of courage. This deserves to be on every science-fiction lover’s shelf.
October 9, 2025
The story combines mystery, romance, and space adventure flawlessly. Stith’s style is direct, making the book easy to read, but it’s also layered enough to enjoy multiple readings. I loved how the reunion plot provides a strong emotional anchor while the sci-fi elements keep things fresh and exciting. There’s real tension, clever problem-solving, and moments of humor that feel effortless. It’s the kind of story that appeals to both casual readers and serious science fiction fans. The mix of espionage, romance, and adventure makes it unique.
October 9, 2025
A charming blend of mystery and otherworldly adventure. The protagonist’s journey is both personal and thrilling, and the narrative is full of energy and wit. Stith balances suspense and humor perfectly, and the science fiction elements never overwhelm the story. You care about the characters, and you root for them while also enjoying the imaginative world they inhabit. The pacing is lively, and there are just enough surprises to keep it engaging from start to finish. A standout in modern science fiction.
October 17, 2019
This book has it all : multiple planets where people hole up like bats , a female character that hates violence , a normal guy who is actually a killer secret agent, and a long chase scene all in order to recover a jeweled rock that looks like a shoe! Despite how annoyed I was that the main character , Lan, was just too perfect ( and Tessa didn't really get to do much) This was an enjoyable read and I was engaged all the way through the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
It’s been a while since I’ve read something that feels both original and familiar. Reunion on Neverend is full of adventure, gentle humor, and confident, graceful writing. John E. Stith makes complex ideas feel effortless, but what truly stands out is the heart behind it all, a story about connection, love, and rediscovery. You can feel the care in every scene. This book was pure joy to read.
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November 4, 2022Protagonist is in a class reunion at an underground planet that he left before. His love is afraid of open places, and he can't stand the caves.
But even though he appears to be unexceptional, he's also there to solve a crime.
But even though he appears to be unexceptional, he's also there to solve a crime.
October 9, 2025
A fast-paced, clever, and heartwarming story. Stith manages to create tension, excitement, and emotional depth all in one package. From the reunion setup to the adventurous twists, everything feels deliberate and satisfying. The book is fun, smart, and memorable.
March 23, 2021
A bunch of old friends have a re-union on their home colony, But in addition to the rehashing of old emotional issues, they have an ancient interstellar puzzle to unravel, if they can escape safely.
January 2, 2026
Shockingly middle-school level writing. I bought a few other books by this author at a sale. Won’t be following through with them.
October 13, 2016
Lan has returned to his childhood home within the underground colony on Neverend. He is wary about returning to the closed in caverns and tight spaces that always made him feel claustrophobic, but he really wants to track down his high school girlfriend, Tessa. Upon arriving, Lan reunites with old friends Parke and Carrie who inform him that Tessa has been holed up in her father’s museum. Tessa has been being threatened into selling the museum and is pretty sure that someone has been breaking in. After learning about Tessa’s troubles, Lan is determined to help; and luckily Lan now has just the skill set to help Tessa with her unique issue.
A fast paced, fun mystery with plenty of adventure and excitement. Set in a mesh of other worlds, Reunion on Neverend successfully took me far away. The world building was magnificent and I could picture the volcanic cave formations on Neverend and the homes and shops carved out of them. For me, the best part was the mix of characters and how they worked to solve Tessa’s museum mystery. I knew Lan was hiding a secret from the very beginning, his unbecoming demeanor camouflaged his overwhelming knowledge and physical capabilities. Paired with his much larger friend, Parke, they made an intimidating duo. Once the group gets together to outwit a duo interested in Tessa’s museum for maniacal means, action, adventure and comedy prevail. Lan’s means of frustrating the thieves was ingenious and hilarious. Usually I’m not huge on space adventure, but this science fiction mystery was perfect for me.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
A fast paced, fun mystery with plenty of adventure and excitement. Set in a mesh of other worlds, Reunion on Neverend successfully took me far away. The world building was magnificent and I could picture the volcanic cave formations on Neverend and the homes and shops carved out of them. For me, the best part was the mix of characters and how they worked to solve Tessa’s museum mystery. I knew Lan was hiding a secret from the very beginning, his unbecoming demeanor camouflaged his overwhelming knowledge and physical capabilities. Paired with his much larger friend, Parke, they made an intimidating duo. Once the group gets together to outwit a duo interested in Tessa’s museum for maniacal means, action, adventure and comedy prevail. Lan’s means of frustrating the thieves was ingenious and hilarious. Usually I’m not huge on space adventure, but this science fiction mystery was perfect for me.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
November 1, 2016
Lan has returned to Neverend for a high school reunion and runs into his friend, Parke. He's glad to see him but the real reason he's returned home is to see Tessa. A lot has changed since he left, though, and she might not be too happy to see him again.
I'm not a huge fan of Sci-Fi, but the mystery and reunion between characters piqued my interest. I'm glad to say that I enjoyed it! Lan and Parke were funny together. Lan has changed a lot since high school but has his reasons for keeping secrets from Parke. When he catches up with Tessa, he learns of a mystery surrounding her late father's museum. Their investigation into what's happening takes them on quite an adventure.
These were fun characters to get to know. Lan, Parke and Tessa were joined by Carrie, another high school friend, Rento, a kid that Lan and Parke had an earlier altercation with, and Onta, a creature from another planet. There comes a point where Lan and Tessa are chasing after the villains, Wilby and Ellie, and we learn more about Lan and how resourceful he has become. Tessa has some concerns about Lan which she tries to work through during that time as well.
This book started out strong for me, then slowed down a bit in the middle, and then really picked up again at the end. It wasn't too heavy on the Sci-Fi, which was perfect for me. There is some light romance as well. The author is currently re-releasing most of his titles and I am interested in reading more!
I received a complimentary copy, which did not affect my review in any way.
Mel's Shelves
I'm not a huge fan of Sci-Fi, but the mystery and reunion between characters piqued my interest. I'm glad to say that I enjoyed it! Lan and Parke were funny together. Lan has changed a lot since high school but has his reasons for keeping secrets from Parke. When he catches up with Tessa, he learns of a mystery surrounding her late father's museum. Their investigation into what's happening takes them on quite an adventure.
These were fun characters to get to know. Lan, Parke and Tessa were joined by Carrie, another high school friend, Rento, a kid that Lan and Parke had an earlier altercation with, and Onta, a creature from another planet. There comes a point where Lan and Tessa are chasing after the villains, Wilby and Ellie, and we learn more about Lan and how resourceful he has become. Tessa has some concerns about Lan which she tries to work through during that time as well.
This book started out strong for me, then slowed down a bit in the middle, and then really picked up again at the end. It wasn't too heavy on the Sci-Fi, which was perfect for me. There is some light romance as well. The author is currently re-releasing most of his titles and I am interested in reading more!
I received a complimentary copy, which did not affect my review in any way.
Mel's Shelves
October 3, 2016
Lan has returned to Neverend for a high school reunion. He wants to rekindle his relationship with his previous girlfriend, Tessa except his claustrophobia keeps him from being comfortable in the underground caverns. While there, he learns that someone is trying to buy/steal the museum Tessa’s father left to her. Lan calls in help to figure out what is going on and they discover that there is a lot more to the museum than originally thought.
This was an interesting read. It’s a good story with enough action to keep you interested without too much science and technology to bore you. I liked the mystery of what was going on and why were they trying to get the museum. I thought the ending was very fitting and wrapped everything up nicely.
This is a great scifi read. It’s one to definitely check out if you like the classic scifi stories.
I received Reunion on Neverend for free from Sami at Roger Charlie in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting read. It’s a good story with enough action to keep you interested without too much science and technology to bore you. I liked the mystery of what was going on and why were they trying to get the museum. I thought the ending was very fitting and wrapped everything up nicely.
This is a great scifi read. It’s one to definitely check out if you like the classic scifi stories.
I received Reunion on Neverend for free from Sami at Roger Charlie in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2010
Lan and Parke two former residents of Neverend, a world where most live in underground caverns have returned to their world for a reunion. Lan is there to reconnect with a lost love. Parke is a friend from long ago. Tesla, Lan's lost love turns out to have a problem, someone is threatening her to sell her Father's museum. In the ensuing investigation, Lan, Parke Tesla and Carrie, a friend find there is a lot more going on in the museum then they suspected, and Tesla learns that Lan has a few secrets of his own.
Basically cops and robbers in space with a small amount of star gate travel and a little speculative science fiction about the electronic surveillance and weapons. Not a lot of heavy science fiction lifting but a good sf tale.
Easy reading.
Basically cops and robbers in space with a small amount of star gate travel and a little speculative science fiction about the electronic surveillance and weapons. Not a lot of heavy science fiction lifting but a good sf tale.
Easy reading.
December 29, 2008
It reminded me of some of Heinlein's stories meant for older teens, but I still found it enjoyable. He did a great job of universe-building, and the romance, although it wasn't the focus of the story, was enjoyable.
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