The Stars Too Fondly: A Novel by Emily Hamilton

Emily Hamilton's debut novel, "The Stars Too Fondly," blends elements of space odyssey and sapphic rom-com into a captivating tale of friendship, love, and adventure.

Cleo and her friends embark on an unintended journey after inadvertently stealing a spaceship. Their quest is to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the Providence crew two decades earlier. However, their plans go awry when the ship's dark matter engine activates on its own, propelling them toward Proxima Centauri with no means of turning back. To complicate matters, they are accompanied by a holographic projection resembling the missing captain, Billie, who adds a snarky yet intriguing dynamic to their journey.

For Cleo, who has always dreamed of becoming an astronaut, the unexpected voyage offers a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos of Earth's uncertain future. Yet, as they delve deeper into space, they encounter unforeseen challenges, including the bending of physical laws and the resurgence of long-buried mysteries. Amidst these trials, Cleo finds herself forming a complex bond with the holographic Billie, leading to unexpected revelations about love and longing.

"The Stars Too Fondly" navigates the intersection of science fiction and romance with finesse, offering readers a thrilling exploration of dark matter, alternate dimensions, and the search for belonging in a vast universe. Hamilton skillfully crafts a narrative that blends humor, suspense, and heartfelt emotion, inviting readers on a journey of self-discovery and connection. As Cleo and her companions confront the unknown, they discover the transformative power of love and the importance of embracing one's true desires amidst the vast expanse of space.