When the starship Athos rescues a mysterious family claiming to predict the future, head librarian Ellis McFadden grows suspicious as crew members fall under the newcomers' spell and begin to disappear. Blending cozy mystery, light romance, and sci-fi adventure, the story explores the dangers of temptation and the value of skepticism as Ellis, her partner Frank, and their android pets race to uncover the truth before the entire ship is lost.

Reader Review Summary

Set aboard the Athos, a vessel that combines the features of a luxury cruise ship, scientific research station, and military starship, the story follows Ellis McFadden, the ship’s head librarian, as she navigates an unexpected adventure during the ship’s six-week downtime known as the Fallow stage. The plot is set in motion when the Athos rescues a stranded craft carrying three enigmatic sisters and their father, who claim to be the sole survivors of a destroyed planet. These newcomers offer the crew and guests visions of the future, quickly captivating many aboard. However, Ellis, along with her boyfriend Frank and her android cat Harry, grows suspicious as the price for these glimpses into tomorrow becomes apparent. Their investigation uncovers unsettling secrets, especially as crew members begin to act strangely and some disappear, prompting Ellis and Frank to take action to protect their friends and the ship.

Readers highlighted the book’s cozy, low-stress atmosphere, with many describing it as a relaxing and enjoyable read that blends science fiction, mystery, and romance. The dynamic between Ellis and Frank, as well as the presence of android pets like Harry the cat and Gracie the parrot, were frequently praised for adding warmth and charm. The audiobook narration by Robyn Maryke received positive feedback for its emotional delivery and pacing. Fans appreciated the focus on an older heroine, the detailed world-building aboard the Athos, and the series’ ongoing development of relationships and recurring characters. The book’s pacing, character interactions, and the investigation process were also noted as strengths, with several readers expressing eagerness for future installments.

Some readers expressed dissatisfaction with the plausibility of the Athos’s operations, particularly regarding the lack of strict protocols for handling unknown alien species and the perceived absence of realistic military or scientific procedures. Criticisms included the narrative’s reliance on Ellis and Frank, rather than official authorities, to resolve serious incidents such as missing persons, which some felt undermined the credibility of the setting. One review noted disappointment with the portrayal of the new alien species and the diminished roles of previously integral characters like the compdroid pets. There were also comments about the story’s structure, with at least one reader finding the central mystery less compelling compared to earlier books in the series.

The book is the third entry in the Ellis McFadden Mysteries series and is best read in order, though some found it accessible as a standalone. The story is available in both print and audiobook formats, with the latter being well-received. The series is characterized by its blend of genres—science fiction, romance, and mystery—and its appeal to readers seeking a gentle, character-driven narrative set in a futuristic environment. The average reader rating is high, with 116 ratings and 21 full reviews, and the book’s clean content and focus on friendship and teamwork have contributed to its positive reception among a broad audience.