Cathryn deVries

A young helicopter pilot named Jayden is sent on a mission to locate the rebels who abandoned his tightly controlled colony in Wormsville, on the planet of Osivirius. The rebels left the colony to build a new, more harmonious life, by blending with the planet’s natural habitat and learning from the wisdom of the ‘Masu,’ giant flying cats. But Jayden’s mission goes horribly wrong when he crash lands his helicopter in rebel territory. Instead of being executed he is captured and detained by the rebels, who take him to hospital to treat his injuries. Jayden meets Flint, a doctor in training who takes care of him, under the watchful eye of his sister, a botanist named Nettle, who is suspicious of Jayden’s every move. As Jayden recovers from his injuries, he develops a close friendship with Flint and Nettle and begins to question his loyalty to the colony. But as Jayden becomes more immersed in the rebels’ world, he hatches a secret plan to escape on a ‘Masu.’ As Jayden and Nettle’s bond develops into something deeper, Jayden has an important decision to make.

Son of Osivirius is an action packed, dystopian science fiction and fantasy novel by author Cathryn deVries. The story follows the journey of two siblings and their friendship with a pilot who crash-lands in their territory. deVries has built a rich and complex world on the planet Osivirius, with contrasts between the rigid, controlled and ordered colony, to the lush habitats and fascinating creatures of the rebel territory. The chapters alternate between Jayden and Nettle’s perspective, providing a rich and unique insight into the characters experiences and motivations. The romance is subtle and believable, unfolding naturally alongside Jayden’s internal struggle and moral awakening.

With superb world building, captivating characters, and a tender slow-burn romance, this is a must read for fans of dystopian science fiction and fantasy.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: Overall, a beautifully crafted novel and a compelling read for young adults. Readers who enjoy dystopian science fiction and fantasy will love this book.