Book Review: Obsidio by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Last year I read the first two books in The Illuminae Files and gave you six reasons why it was a binge-worthy read. I really hope you took my advice to dive into this sci-fi series because the final book in the trilogy is nothing short of spectacular! Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff deliver a heart-pounding and thrilling conclusion that will satisfy readers.

Thus far in the series, we have followed Kady Grant, Ezra Mason, Hanna Donnelly, Nik Malikov, and Ella Malikova as they battle against evil corporation BeiTech, who is desperately trying to cover up their misdeeds. Namely their attack on the illegal mining colony on Kerenza and subsequent destruction of jump station Heimdall. This group of brave teens has survived a deadly virus, battleships, an unstable AI system, a lethal alien species, and a strike team hell-bent on killing them. They have endured the horrific, faced unimaginable loss, and shouldered the burden of bringing BeiTech to justice. These young heroes aren’t done fighting.

In Obsidio, readers are taken back to the place where it all started on Kerenza. We learn that the residents who survived the attack on the colony are now under severe occupation by BeiTech. They are being forced to mine a valuable energy source called hermium. Once BeiTech has enough to power their jump gate, they plan to wipe out the remaining civilians and make a run for it. It’s up to Asha Grant and her fellow rebels to find a way to stop BeiTech and plan an escape of their own. But to do this, they are going to need help from an unlikely source. One that is connected to Asha’s past. BeiTech soldier Rhys Lindstrom arrives on Kerenza and is immediately unsettled at what he sees. He begins to question the ethics of BeiTech’s orders as his loyalty and conscience are put to the test.

Once again, Kaufman and Kristoff effortlessly weave a riveting story told only through emails, documents, memos, surveillance footage transcripts, and chats. They have managed to create memorable characters with distinct voices that readers will quickly become attached to. The trilogy has a large cast of main characters, but each one is given their time to shine. Even after three books, I’m amazed at their ability to seamlessly connect and maintain a fast-paced, intense, and action-oriented plot using an unconventional format. Everything beautifully comes together at the end. Readers will not be disappointed with this finale.

There isn’t much more I can say without spoiling the story. Definitely pick up this sci-fi series for a summer binge read. I highly recommend you listen to The Illuminae Files audiobook to experience the full scope of this epic space adventure. Trust me, it’s worth it!