Review: New Reality by Jessica Payseur

It’s lonely running a small transport ship across the galaxy when you’re as old and as single as Connell Smyth. So when the dreams start up, Connell assumes they’re his mind’s way of working through what his life has become—until he discovers the man in his dreams might be much more than a figment of his neglected imagination. Connell can’t quite believe it could be real, but he can’t help becoming obsessed with this new lover on an unknown luscious planet.

Seventeen years ago, Wystan Kreeger’s survey mission crash-landed on a hard-to-reach planet. Sole survivor Wystan turns desperate after his computer, the only companion he’s had since, gives out. Even in the improbable event that the man in his dreams is real, he’ll face the same risk from the planet’s storm-charged atmosphere if he tries to track Wystan down, and he could end up just like Wystan’s former crew. But finding each other across so many light-years can’t be a mere coincidence. Now they must find a way to realize the happiness they’ve found in sleep during the light of the day.

This was a really easy read. I enjoyed the world building and character building of Connell. Connell is in his fifties, and is floundering after the sudden death of his partner, Jason. He is still doing courier work but he is terrible at it, as he was always behind the scenes as support, where Jason was the one who made the deals.

While trying to find work, his dreams of Jason start to turn into dreams of another man. They feel so real he is convinced this person exists, and his new mission is research and finding where Wystan is.

While short, this story had plenty of depth. I got to know Connell well, and felt his struggle with apathy. He just wanted to retire somewhere quiet with someone who loved him, and now he is lonely and grieving.

Wystan’s time on page is short, and I didn’t get to know him as well as Connell but I enjoyed his cut to the chase attitude. He has spent so much time isolated and alone that he doesn’t want to waste anymore time on miscommunication. He is very clear about his direction and what his ultimate goal is. I appreciated his direct approach. No mess or fuss.

For a short Sci-fi romance this was great. I feel refreshed after reading it. This author has a really nice writing style, and I could definitely go for something longer and more complex.

I recommend this to readers who want something lighter in between more intense reads. Something quick with an easy flow.

A review copy was provided for an honest opinion.