Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Gemma Kaine Sky Rider by L.B. Anne is the first book in the Brave New World series. Gemma can do something extraordinary. Too bad everyone thinks she’s making it up. When she sleeps, she finds herself living another life on the planet Arsara. Weaving between life in New York and adventure on Arsara, Gemma is torn between these two realities, favoring the peacefulness of her second life. Then one night she doesn’t wake up in New York and remains in Arsara. At first, she loves every moment as the creatures on the planet live in harmony. Then she uncovers a shocking secret, embarks on an adventure where she battles monsters and finds a surprising connection to Earth.

The plot alternates between the reality of New York and the perfect paradise that Arsara appears to be, which creates an interesting dilemma for Gemma. These two locations represent two lives that tug her back and forth between them. Her ability offers her the chance to explore another world, creating a form of escapism that makes her not want to return home. The story focuses on what happens when she gets her wish and stops waking back up on Earth, which serves as an interesting premise that immediately draws you in. The tone shifts along with the plot, going from a lighthearted exploration of another planet to containing more action-packed moments. Arsara is set up to be a perfect paradise with different creatures living in harmony and a foundation built on not lying. The details make this society appear as the ideal utopia with healthy meals, everyone being a healthy weight, and no one ill. This makes it easy for her to become lost in the wonder of it and creates more impact when she starts seeing the flaws beneath the surface of this perfect world.

A variety of creatures, a lovely culture, and a rich history establish this planet and sets up the ideal opportunity for secrets, mystery, and adventure. L. B. Anne weaves an easy progression from her excitement about Arsara to her longing to return to New York. The growing desperation to get home gives this science fiction adventure a human element. Gemma Kaine Sky Rider is a delightful foray into science fiction with an adventure that blends action, mystery, and wonder while a young girl searches for a way to return home.