Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

The Asteroid Cafe by Zachry Wheeler is a sci-fi story that combines humor and a pinch of darkness, all set in a lonely satellite restaurant during Earth's off-season for orbital tourism. Kevin Kyle Kane, a self-proclaimed nihilist, has chosen this remote location for a solitary vacation, only for humanity’s final chapter to unfold below. As a nuclear catastrophe wipes out Earth and the moon, Kevin and Burt—the restaurant's charming caretaker—become possibly the last two people left. As the story unravels, it becomes clear that Kevin’s detachment from the disaster isn’t mere indifference but something far darker, while Burt’s simplicity and hopes for connection add an unexpected emotional layer to the apocalyptic setting. Wheeler masterfully combines absurdity, dark humor, and unnerving revelations to craft a chilling portrait of humanity’s end.

The Asteroid Cafe hooked me right away with its bold and unusual premise. Zachry Wheeler's unique approach to apocalyptic fiction, featuring an orbiting diner and an unapologetically nihilistic protagonist, was truly captivating. The pacing is just right, making it easy to stay invested as Kevin and Burt forge an unusual bond in this end-of-the-world scenario. Kevin is a complex and intriguing character; his calm, analytical take on life’s absurdities makes him an unforgettable character. Burt, in contrast, feels more grounded, his naive yet kind demeanor offering fragile hope in an otherwise bleak narrative. The themes of isolation, human connection, and the search for meaning are explored with such clever wit that they lingered in my mind long after I finished reading. It's a short story that hits home in all the best ways—definitely worth a read.