To Avenge a Fallen Star

United Planetary Systems (Gemma #1)

By: Qilanna Quinn

Narrated by: Dahlia Summers

SHE'S NOT HERE FOR THE PRIZE. SHE'S HERE FOR REVENGE.

It is the year 2562, and centuries have passed since mankind left the Milky Way in search of a better life. For most, the dream of a grander existence has become a reality. But for the descendants of exiled criminals, sentenced to live on the harsh red planet of Reva, their only dream is reaching twenty years of age and passing their Oranos Trials, which grants them unrestricted citizenship in the United Planetary Systems—and freedom from Reva.

For Gemma’s sister, three years ago, her dream was no different. But just one day after passing her Trials, she was murdered. Desperate for vengeance, Gemma joined a rebel organization with the power to help her execute punishment. And now, twenty-years-old herself, it’s Gemma’s turn to enter the Oranos Trials, where she will finally exact retribution on the man who murdered her sister: the Game Master himself, Rami.

But her mission quickly unravels when she discovers a far darker conspiracy is at play. As hidden enemies reveal themselves, some closer than she could have imagined, Gemma must forge unexpected alliances to confront the even greater threat. Her very life—and Reva’s future—may depend on it.

TO AVENGE A FALLEN STAR is perfect for listeners who crave intense action, deep emotion, and twists that leave you breathless.

This book is recommended for listeners aged 18+.

©2025 Qilanna Quinn (P)2026 Qilanna Quinn

Solid sci-fi loaded with tropes but performance truly delivers!

Solid sci-fi adventure overall that kept me engaged throughout. While it featured a very stereotypical FMC that came across as ‘three tropes in a trenchcoat’ (an petite one, of course), and starts with a series of very familiar tropes piled on each other … eventually it really hits its stride and has some twists and turns and lays the foundation to intrigue me enough that I am looking forward to the second book coming later this year!

Amazing world building and top notched narrating!

This story blew me away with its world building and plot twists! The author was very detailed and I felt like I was in an immersive experience. I really enjoyed how realistic the trials were for the characters but they were actually simulated. The main character Gemma was very relatable and I was rooting for her the whole way! With robots, pods, cool suits that collect your sweat, found family, betrayal, and romance, this book really has it all. I can’t wait to listen to the sequel!

I thought Dahlia Summers did an incredible job voicing not only the main character, Gemma, but ALL the side character voices! At first when I heard the male voices I thought “Oh! It’s duel narration” but no, it’s not. It’s just that Ms. Summers is THAT good!

Perfect Dystopian Scifi

Wow! I went into this audiobook completely blind and I loved it. So entertaining and listened to it in a day. I was thoroughly entertained from the trials, quest, fights and yes a few not overly descriptive love scenes. ❤️ The twists were great, which to be honest I didn’t see coming. This has a great found family. I can’t wait for book 2! Highly recommend for anyone who loves dystopian books!

The narrator did a great job and capturing the characters and brought the emotional depth, action and love to life. I really liked her voices. I listened at 1.5 speed.

Thank you to the author Qilanna Quinn for the gifted ALC, this is my honest review.

Great Dystopian Sci-fi!

To Avenge a Fallen Star by Qilanna Quinn is a powerful first book in The United Planetary Systems: Gemma series! Set in a dystopian sci-fi world where some of the youth on the planet Reva get an opportunity to compete for citizenship. These trials test their physical and mental fortitude as well as their teamwork abilities. Gemma is one of those people, but passing the trial doesn't mean citizenship for her, but gives her the opportunity to eliminate the person who killed her sister. Working for the rebel group, Gemma will stop at nothing to get her revenge.

I really enjoyed this dystopian competition and the characters. Gemma meets a group that becomes her core team. They were each distinct and really made the world come alive. There are some massive twist that had me on the edge of my seat!

There were some predictable components, but the ending really sets up the next book well! I would recommend this book to anyone who loves dystopian and competition type books! I also got a chance to listen to the audiobook and it was super well done! Don't miss out!

The world building!!!

Sci-fi dystopian romance and I’m here for it!!! I didn’t know I needed this book so excited for book two!