This is my first sci-fi read of 2021 and it's not a terrible start, if I may say so myself. The beginning of this book really grabbed my attention and I took an immediate liking to Cassy and Freddie. You can tell from the beginning of the story that they have known each other for some time and have a cool friendship. However, I feel like the character development loses some steam after the beginning of the book. I would have wanted to have more character and relationship building, specifically for the romance in the story. I'm at least glad that the romance in the book didn't jump past the stage of initial infatuation. This book is short and there was not enough time spent with the characters to merit anything beyond that. I wish it was longer solely because the characters were likeable. I really wish I got to spend more time with them. Cassy is a very competent space captain who despite her romantic feelings, puts the greater good before her own personal interests. Her actions match up with her character and the same goes for everyone else. So, kudos there. The plot does progress in a very linear fashion, but also hits beats in the story more conveniently than I would have liked. In turn, this made it feel to me like there was a lack of motivation for the events in the story, even though the events happening were logical. The pacing is also felt very fast, even for me who usually prefers fast paced books. That is something to note if you have a preference for pacing. I do plan on continuing the series and I am hoping that I get more of what I felt was lacking in this first installment. I feel like this is a series with a start that has potential. I'll have to keep reading to see if the series delivers.