The Last Gifts of the Universe

DEBUT Half-siblings Scout and Kieran are archaeologists scouring the galaxy for information caches left behind by other civilizations. Every known alien world is dead, destroyed by an unidentified force sweeping across the universe. Scout hopes their latest cache—a message left by the long-dead alien Blyreena, describing her last stand—might hold a clue of what they’re up against. Megacorporation Verity Co. also wants that information for themselves, and they’re determined to get there first. Racing for clues to the vanquishment of a galactic threat propels this novel, but its emotional core comes from Scout listening to the messages Blyreena left behind. Blyreena’s and Scout’s backstories weave a thematic message about dealing with grief, which takes precedence over finding a concrete solution to saving the galaxy. The addition of a cat to Scout and Kieran’s archaeology team adds humor and charm in a story that emphasizes love and connection.