David Gittlin’s Return to Aneleya picks up the interstellar torch with Jacob Casell, a mystery novelist-turned-starship captain, who finds himself thrust into a whirlwind of cosmic conflict and multidimensional surprises. What starts as a routine mission around Jupiter quickly spirals into a chaotic detour through a parallel universe, complete with a collapsing planet, mysterious alien freighters, an advanced Aneleyan starship, and a deadly plague. Alongside his wife Amy, the brilliant AI Arcon, and a motley crew of Earth and alien allies, Jacob must navigate not only space-time but also the tricky politics and personal tensions that come with being strangers in a universe at war.

I had a blast with this book. Gittlin’s writing is breezy, clever, and full of heart. The banter between characters, especially Jacob, Amy, and Arcon, feels like the kind of natural, lived-in dialogue you only get when the writer genuinely enjoys these people. The pacing is fast, sometimes almost breathless, and it works. There’s always something happening, whether it’s a space chase, a tense diplomatic moment, or a sweet, quiet scene between two characters who clearly care for each other. I appreciated how the book didn’t shy away from mixing big sci-fi ideas with down-to-earth emotions. The science is loose, sure, but it’s imaginative, and it knows what it’s doing: setting the stage for fun, drama, and exploration.

I wanted more time with the alien cultures and their histories. There were moments where the story leaned on exposition, breaking up the flow of an otherwise smooth ride. Still, I didn’t mind too much. The charm and warmth of the main cast pulled me through. Amy is a standout. She’s capable, smart, and quietly strong. And Arcon, despite being an AI, might be the most emotionally layered character of the bunch. The story is warm, hopeful, and deeply human, even when the stakes are planetary extinction.

Return to Aneleya is a fun, heartfelt, and accessible slice of space adventure that feels like classic sci-fi with a modern emotional core. It’s perfect for readers who love fast-paced stories with just enough science to feel cosmic, but not so much it bogs down the fun. If you liked The Expanse but wished it cracked a few more jokes, or if you’re a fan of Doctor Who‘s blend of wonder and heart, this book is right up your alley.

Pages: 194 | ASIN: B0F9B5DVCD