A review by a_reader_obsessed
Full Speed to a Crash Landing by Beth Revis

adventurous mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

What can I say?  I obviously really enjoyed this sci-fi novella!

As per the blurb, Ada is a lone scavenger, mostly scouring space or planets for random ghost ships or wreckage to loot anything that might be valuable for resale. While trying to work a crash site before others find it, an accident renders her helpless, and it’s divine luck that another ship is nearby to rescue her or is it?

When Ada’s reluctantly taken in by the Halifax, she somehow charms her way through the governmental crew, especially Rian, the man in charge who’s desperate to find an important piece of intel from the very ruined spacecraft Ada has found. The interactions between these two were spot on, and though they each hold their cards close to the vest for reasons, how fortuitous is it that Ada just so happens to have the skill and equipment to make Rian’s endeavor achievable.

Know that this has some interesting world building.  Earth is basically a dying planet, and humanity has colonized a few new places, but as with most science fiction with this scenario, there’s always the admirable goal to restore Earth to its former glory.  Touching on overpopulation and its repercussions, government bureaucracy, corporate greed, and the fringe factions that have their own agendas, I was impressed that this small package contained so much.  The seriousness of these topics contrasted nicely with the suspenseful mission and entertaining crew dynamics making this a propulsive quick read.

Ending on a bit of a cliffhanger, overall, this was a fun space romp with action, drama, and a touch of romance in the making!  I definitely want to see how these pesky political and personal motives will either keep our two engaging protagonists at odds with each other or bring them together. My obvious bet is on the latter, and I’ll be over here waiting impatiently for the next installment to drop later this year!

Thank you to the author and DAW via NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review