Through a Forest of Stars

Book 1 in the Space Unbound Series

“David C. Jeffrey's debut is one of the most satisfying and imaginative science fiction novels of the year. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy today.”
— San Francisco Book Review

“Sci-fi fans won’t regret diving into the first volume of Jeffrey’s detailed, imaginative epic of humanity’s interstellar future.”
— Publishers Weekly BookLife

Year 2217

Earth’s biosphere is dying. Mars’s terraforming projects are in ruin. And even the voidoids—eerie portals into nearby star systems—have failed to uncover the one treasure humanity needs most. Until now… A miracle has been discovered in the Chara system, and Aiden Macallan, Terra Corp’s embittered planetary geologist, is on his way there aboard the survey ship Argo.

But who will get there first?

The System’s rival powers, United Earth Domain and Allied Republics of Mars, want the prize for themselves. A cataclysmic war is about to erupt, and Aiden finds himself pulled into its vortex of violence—and into the heart of a profound mystery where the key to humanity’s survival lies hidden.

To find it, he’ll need to trek alone across a living landscape—one that’s either trying to kill him or heal him—guided only by his enigmatic AI sidekick, Hutton, and by a recurring dream that grows more frighteningly real with each step. The miracle has become far more than it seemed, and now Aiden is the only person alive who can save it—and the human race—from certain extinction.

Praise for Through a Forest of Stars

“Sci-fi fans won’t regret diving into the first volume of Jeffrey’s detailed, imaginative epic of humanity’s interstellar future… Simultaneously a critique of twenty-first-century politics as well as a hopeful vision for the future, Through a Forest of Stars will capture readers’ imaginations thanks to its blend of classic science-fiction tropes, New Age elements, and compelling characters. SF series readers will be eager for the next installment.”
— Publishers Weekly BookLife

5 Stars. “Through a Forest of Stars is a fantastic book… David C. Jeffrey’s debut is one of the most satisfying and imaginative science fiction novels of the year. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy today.”
— Reviewed by Ben Haskett for San Francisco Book Review

5 Stars. “David Jeffrey has created a science fiction fan’s dream in Through a Forest of Stars, with multiple storylines going on; some great world building; and interesting characters that you find yourself caring about and rooting for. And the good news is, this is the first book in the series, with the second book, Sun Wolf, already out.”
— Alex Telander, Seattle Book Review

“Reminiscent of the likes of Arthur C. Clarke, Through a Forest of Stars, takes the reader on a journey into the future based on sound scientific principles… The book is fascinating and holds the reader's interest…The cosmic politics involved in the competing interests for the planet are well developed and complex and add urgency to the story… If you love space fiction, especially with a good dose of science in it, this book is well worth reading.”
— Adam Wright, for Reedsy Discover

5 Stars. “One of the features which I found particularly impressive about this piece was the author’s ability to balance the classic approach to science fiction with the fast hook appeal of the modern blockbuster, weaving an intricate storyline of clever concepts and relevant issues alongside dynamic, action-packed scenes and high-octane thrills.”
— K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

5 Stars. “Through a Forest of Stars is a thought-provoking and introspective take on space exploration that instantly pulls you in with a riveting story and some wonderfully imaginative worldbuilding … Sci-fi fans should adore Through a Forest of Stars. I did, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.”
— Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite

5 Stars. “I love sci-fi and I’m happy to say that the first installment in the Space Unbound series doesn’t disappoint. There are so many praiseworthy things in this book so I’ll try to cover the best. First, the writing is just so good… I love the plot and can’t wait to see what happens next. Fans of Star Trek will enjoy Through A Forest of Stars.”
— Maureen Dangarembizi for Readers’ Favorite

“Revolving around the discovery of an uninhabited, Earth-like world—and the looming war that ensues between competing planetary governments to possess it—David C. Jeffrey’s stellar debut novel is grand-scale science fiction adventure with a thematically profound Gaiaist bent… Science fiction readers will savor this read. The scientific speculation is solid, the pacing relentless, and the earth-centered philosophy powerful…This is the first installment in Jeffrey’s Space Unbound saga, and the author leaves numerous tantalizing plot threads dangling at novel’s end. Readers are sure to enjoy this well-written, multi-layered, impactful science fiction adventure.”
— BlueInk Review

“Political intrigue and a fascinating alien world combine to make for a rousing speculative adventure. The scope of Through a Forest of Stars is vast. It’s an epic story that encompasses multiple worlds, a wide range of characters, a desperate and dying Earth, and plenty of space exploration… One thing that stands out in this novel is the science. The author, David C. Jeffrey, clearly knows what he’s talking about when it comes to astronomy, biology, physics, and future technologies. The world built in this novel feels authentic… Through A Forest of Stars is a little bit of an adventure, a little bit post-apocalyptic, a little bit of political intrigue, and a whole lot of fun. The careful balance of these elements creates a monumental journey that sweeps readers along for a great ride.”
— Joelene Pynnonen for Independent Book Review

“An original and thrilling space drama. Channeling endearing humanoid-robot relationships from ‘Star Wars,’ future tech from ‘The Expanse,’ and philosophical questions about cosmic exploration and our relationship with nature that would make Asimov and Heinlein tip their caps, this book is far more than sci-fi pulp. Jeffrey is able to take classic sci-fi storylines and give them each a deep breath of original life. The pacing is kept high, and Jeffrey knows how to ramp up adrenaline at the turn of a page. For those who love real science in their science fiction, this book will not disappoint. Through a Forest of Stars is polished, well-paced, unpredictable, and thrilling, making it an excellent launching point for Jeffrey’s sprawling new series.”
— Self-Publishing Review

4.5 Stars. “David C. Jeffrey’s inventive, intricate plots and world creation in THROUGH A FOREST OF STARS are definitely worth exploration in this first series volume, as the characters and plots are both complex and fascinating.”
— Kathleen Kenney Peterson for IndieReader