Format: Kindle, 274 pages
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Publisher: Amazon
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Space Opera / Romance
Step into the enigmatic world of the Athos—a vessel that blends the luxury of a cruise ship, the intrigue of a scientific research station, and the might of a military starship. Here, amidst the stars, you'll find Ellis McFadden, the ship’s head librarian, embarking on adventures she never anticipated this late in her career.
Even better that she gets to experience it all while in proximity to her daughter, who just happens to be the vice admiral. But life aboard the ship takes a darker turn when a library patron is found dead, and Ellis falls under suspicion.
With her reputation on the line, Ellis must navigate a labyrinth of secrets and lies. Armed with her wits, the loyalty of her eclectic friends, and her trusty android cat, she dives into a mystery that's as thrilling as the unexplored galaxies around her. Can she find the critical evidence to clear her name before the next jump into the unknown?
Even better that she gets to experience it all while in proximity to her daughter, who just happens to be the vice admiral. But life aboard the ship takes a darker turn when a library patron is found dead, and Ellis falls under suspicion.
With her reputation on the line, Ellis must navigate a labyrinth of secrets and lies. Armed with her wits, the loyalty of her eclectic friends, and her trusty android cat, she dives into a mystery that's as thrilling as the unexplored galaxies around her. Can she find the critical evidence to clear her name before the next jump into the unknown?
Breathing Space is the first installment in author Kristen Palmer's Ellis McFadden Mysteries series. The Ellis McFadden Mysteries series is a blend of cozy mystery and sci-fi, set aboard the luxurious yet enigmatic starship Athos. The novel introduces readers to Ellis McFadden, a middle-aged head librarian who embarks on an unexpected adventure in her later career, drawn to the ship partly to be near her daughter, the vice admiral, Hazel Perry.
Painter crafts a unique setting that feels like a cruise ship among the stars, combining the intrigue of a scientific research station with the might of a military vessel. The story kicks off when a library patron is found dead, and Ellis becomes the prime suspect after she decides to bring a copy of a book that the deceased wanted to his habitat. Determined to clear her name, she dives into a web of secrets and lies, armed with her sharp wit, a loyal group of eclectic friends, her charming talking android cat, Hieronymus (aka Harry), and a new love interest in Frank Kitson, who has a few interesting twists of his own.
The mystery is engaging, though not overly suspenseful, striking a cozy tone that avoids sharp edges. The droid pets, especially Harry, steal the show, bringing warmth and humor to the narrative. Ellis is a compelling protagonist—relatable, mature, and resourceful. Her budding friendship (and potential romance) with Frank adds a sweet layer without overshadowing the mystery. While the story could have used a few more twists or deeper stakes, the solid mystery, endearing characters, and promise of more adventures make it a strong series starter.
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