4 / 5 ⭐️‘s

“Against The Stars” by Christopher Hartland

Wow, there was so much packed into this book. It delves into bi, trans, mental illness, suicide, poverty, substance abuse, class, love, fate, and others I'm sure I'm missing, all packaged into a YA queer science fiction book!

The story follows Elliot Dove, a teenager grappling with his confusion surrounding his sexuality after a disastrous prom night incident with his best friend. Seeking clarity, Elliot turns to GlimpseTech, a company that offers glimpses of the future to those over the age of sixteen. However, instead of finding answers, Elliot's glimpse only adds to his confusion as he sees himself in an intimate moment with Sebastian Glass, the only openly gay kid in his school.

Sebastian, on the other hand, despises Glimpses, blaming the technology for his father's absence. As he deals with his mother's depression and a looming financial crisis, Sebastian unexpectedly crosses paths with Elliot repeatedly, and it seems as though the universe is pushing them together. Despite their different backgrounds and struggles, Elliot and Sebastian find solace and understanding in each other, and their friendship soon blossoms into something deeper.
One of the strengths of this story is its exploration of class differences and how they impact the characters' lives. The divide between the haves and have-nots is palpable, with GlimpseTech representing the privileged upper class who can afford the technology, while others protest against it.

The romance between Elliot and Sebastian is beautifully portrayed, capturing the joys and challenges of first love. Their relationship is portrayed with sensitivity and authenticity, as they navigate their feelings for each other while dealing with the uncertainties of the future. The chemistry between them is palpable, and I was definitely rooting for their love to triumph against all odds.

The speculative element of the novel, the concept of glimpsing the future, adds an intriguing layer to the story. The mystery surrounding the "Last Day" and the consequences of knowing or not knowing what lies ahead creates tension and suspense, driving the plot forward. Hartland raises thought-provoking questions about destiny, choice, and the unpredictability of life, leaving readers pondering whether they would choose to glimpse ahead if given the chance.

This is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story that is sure to captivate you from start to finish. Hartland's prose is engaging and evocative, drawing you into the lives of Elliot and Sebastian, and their struggles and triumphs feel real and relatable. The diverse representation of queer characters and their experiences adds depth and authenticity to the story.

This ARC was provided by @tinyghostpress in exchange for an honest review. ( )