The Forsaken Planet is a sprawling science fiction epic that kicks off the Power of the Stars series. It tells the story of Colton Samson, an ordinary young man from suburban New England whose world is shattered when alien ships invade Earth. After the sudden destruction of his home and the death of his best friend during the attack, Colton discovers that he is connected to a larger cosmic struggle. The book unfolds across multiple planets and explores themes of vengeance, power, friendship, and identity. As Colton grapples with loss and truth, he finds himself drawn into a war that threatens not just Earth but the entire known universe.

I was hooked from the first page. Bryan Wilson knows how to build tension. The slow burn of normal life being ripped apart by cosmic forces gave me real chills. His characters, especially Colton, feel like people you could know: awkward, impulsive, loyal to a fault. The dialogue is natural and sharp, and Wilson has a real knack for blending big sci-fi concepts with relatable emotions. Spoiler alert: When TJ dies, it hurt. Not just because of the loss, but because of how raw and real that moment felt. I also loved how Wilson keeps the pacing tight, even with a lot of world-building. He doesn’t get bogged down in exposition dumps. He lets the mystery unfold at just the right pace.

One of my favorite parts was the mythology. It’s this rich, layered history of prophets, lost power, and a cosmic kingdom that once united all human-inhabited worlds—including Earth. I loved how Earth is portrayed not just as a distant, disconnected planet but as something sacred that was cut off, “forsaken,” like a fallen temple in the stars. It reminded me a lot of Star Wars with its ancient orders and mysterious forces, but also had touches of Dune and even The Silmarillion—that same sense of deep, mythic pasts shaping the present.

The writing is energetic and full of heart. Bryan Wilson has a clear love for the story he’s telling, and it shows in the vivid scenes and emotional moments. His style is easy to follow, with natural dialogue and strong pacing, though sometimes it leans a little dramatic. Still, the emotion behind the words pulls you in, and when it hits, it hits hard.

The Forsaken Planet is a heartfelt and wild ride through space and emotion. It’s for anyone who likes their science fiction with a bit of old-school flair, big stakes, and bigger feelings. If you’re into stories about underdogs becoming heroes, hidden powers, and interstellar drama, then this one’s for you.

Pages: 599 | ASIN : B0C3RVGK9R