Honestly surprised that I could just not get into this book as its the kind of writing I gravitate towards, however this just was not for me. Ended up DFN around 30% of the way through which I find hard to do.

The premise for this book is crazy dealing with religion, extraterrestrial tech and clones. It kind of gave me a Philip K. Dick vibe in how weird it is. The story and the concept behind it are original and really interesting but I had difficulty getting into the story due to the way its told and the fact that I couldn't sympathize with the characters but that's maybe because this is the second book in the series and I haven't read the first. I loved the fact that it was illustrated and all the history and superstition behind the author's creative choices. The colors in the cover were pretty cool too.
Thank you to Net Galley and Dancing StarPublications for this ARC.

This fun cyberpunk novel breaks sci-fi walls with it's sheer creativity and excellent writing. I got sucked into reading this novel after work and turned around to find myself putting it down in the wee-hours of the morning. But it was TOTALLY worth it. Perfect for fans who like to question their reality. If you like books like Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, Richard K. Morgan's Altered Carbon, or anything Black Mirror on Netflix, then this book is for you. The author is a master storyteller and blends a coming of age story of a genetically engineered girl, a futuristic space craft, North America, and Nazis to entertain the reader for hours. I don't want to give away too many spoilers, but this is an unexpected gem in modern science fiction. Can't wait to read what the author does next. As someone who works in fashion and costume design, I could see this novel being adapted onto the stage or silver screen by a director who wanted to have some fun at their craft. Good job. Excellent craftsmanship.

I seriously loved the premise of this book and found the world the author create to not only be so vivid but also kind of addicting. the plot was fully realized and pulled me in from page one.

Lysandra by T.J. Zakreski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In a lot of ways or perhaps all of them, the only way to review this book is through spoilers. So here's your mild warning.

There's a lot going on under the surface that is both essential to the tale and interesting enough that we actually NEED to talk about it in a review or the awesome JUST CAN'T BE SHOWN. :)

I mean, I could just say it's awesome and all but that kinda misses the point. WHY?

Because... the New Adult clone of Jesus created by an AI virus from another star system is getting into trouble, is taking on the monstrosity of the future Religious State, and she's not doing it alone.

The virus has plans of his own and he's just as godly as before. He's including the poor guy from the previous novel, too. And if this wasn't cool enough, the whole nature of reality, virtual reality, of alternate universes and times as seen through branching-off versions spawned through wormholes, is on full display here.

As the Stones might say, we've got ourselves a revolution.

I mentioned once in the review of the Cygnus Invasion that the author takes the ball from Philip K Dick and runs with it. And he does. There's a lot of godlike stuff going on here. Zakreski has a zany core here while retaining the serious exploration of the original subject. It's treated lightly, quickly, as well as with all the solemnity and depth it requires. I can't ask for more. Easy to read and yet it tackles a lot of complex topics.

Religion, godhood... beware the Spear of Destiny. It looks like a little quantum tomfoolery is on its way. :) Beware the minotaur in the labyrinth. :)

Lysandra reminded me of Lucy and Red Sparrow creating humans from genetically modified humans wanting them to fit in society, be part of a cult or even save the world. This book was brilliantly conceived and we'll executed understanding. Just when you thought you know what happens, the plot takes a new turn. I also loved the imagery work done with this book. It's like taking the journey along wondering what will happen with Lysandra.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. We will consider this novel for our sci-fi collection at the library. That is why we give this book 4 stars.

Having not read the first book I really struggled with this.
I did not like the characters and struggled to get into the story.
It was just not for me.