An extremely well-crafted reading experience!

Samuel Best, an American author, was born in Cape Canaveral and grew up a mile from the Kennedy Space Centre gates. His grandmother built space shuttles, and his father developed the scientific equipment that flew with them. Young Samuel wanted nothing more than to fly into space himself, but was limited to watching launches from his porch and dreaming of the stars.

Then, in 2017, Samuel published his debut science fiction novel 'Mission One', an odyssey of first contact with aliens in the near future. By 2021, the 'Titan Chronicles' books – now a trilogy – had become bestsellers, selling thousands of copies and receiving excellent reviews. I read the first volume and reviewed it below.

What can readers expect from the opening chapters?

The novel opens with preparations for a space mission to Titan, Saturn's largest moon. The launch command centre is arranged in a large semicircle. Screens on the wall display data from Explorer I, and the atmosphere in the control centre is tense. Kate, an engineer, is concerned about the latest changes made by Frank, the mission commander. Despite her concerns, Frank assures her that everything is within tolerance limits and that the tests have been successful.

Meanwhile, Noah, the CEO of Diamond Aerospace, watches the preparations for the launch of Explorer I from his office. A successful businessman and visionary, he considers the mission to be crucial to his company's success. Noah appears tense, as failure could jeopardise the future of his company.

Jeff, one of the four astronauts, is conducting system tests in the rocket's cockpit. His mixture of nervousness and humour reveals his human side. The entire team is well rehearsed and preparing for launch. The clock is ticking, counting down to launch.

Here is my review of 'Mission One'

'Mission One' is not only a gripping novel, but also an extremely well-crafted reading experience. It transports you to an exciting and mysterious world. Four astronauts find themselves in a strange and dangerous environment.

The story centres on Kate, Frank and Noah (on Earth), as well as Jeff and three other astronauts in space. They must all face the challenges of their mission. A key element of the story is a mysterious artefact, one of the novel's most fascinating features.

Classifiable as high-tech science fiction, the novel features futuristic technologies and extraterrestrial elements in a thrilling plot set in the not-too-distant future. Despite the first fifth of the novel describing the launch preparations in vivid detail, I was immediately drawn into the gripping narrative.

The main characters are well developed and evolve as the plot progresses. Their complexity makes them likeable characters with whom you can empathise. The relationship between Jeff and Kate is particularly interesting. Their interactions are emotional and authentic, and their mutual support in even the darkest moments is inspiring.

The plot itself is full of unexpected twists and turns. Samuel Best masterfully maintains the suspense until the very last page. The novel's language is mostly fluid and appealing.

The combination of hard science fiction, adventure and emotional relationships makes 'Mission One' a captivating read that transports us to another world while offering emotional depth. Furthermore, the story is thought-provoking, inviting us to consider life's big questions.

My reading recommendation: (Advertising) 'Mission One (Titan Chronicles 1)' is a 393-page paperback. Samuel Best's hard science fiction novel is also available as an e-book and an Audible audiobook.

The role of the mysterious artefact remains unclear. Volumes II and III, called 'Deep Black' and 'Last Contact', are already available in stores. Visit Samuel Best's author profile (Advertising) from time to time to find out more about the Titan book series (also available in German) and the newer trilogy 'Galena Chronicles'.

© 'An extremely well-crafted reading experience!': This review of 'Mission One (Titan Chronicles 1)', a hard science fiction novel by Samuel Best, was written by Izabel Comati, 07/2025. Thank you to the publisher, A7L Books, for the review copy and information.