Title: The Crystalline Planet
Author: S.B. Andresen
Publisher: Balboa Press
ISBN: 1982256702
Pages: 132
Genre: Science Fiction
Reviewed by: Liz Konkel

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The Crystalline Planet by author S.B. Andresen begins with Sam having been friends with Chris since they were kids growing up on a moon colony, but now Sam has embarked on a mission to a new planet in search of his missing friend and to uncover the planet’s secrets. Chris went on a mission in search of a needed material only to cease all communication which was the last time Sam ever saw his friend. A message left by Chris reveals information about the residents of the planet who reside within seaside dwellings and who are the key to Sam’s discovering secrets about his own father. Will getting to know the residents uncover what happened to his best friend? Or will Sam stumble into something darker?

The story immediately sets up the friendship Sam has with Chris which creates an emotional core that guides Sam’s actions throughout his time on the planet. Chris’s presence serves as the catalyst for Sam’s arrival on this planet while his disappearance drives the mystery within the story. The story incorporates Chris’s presence by Sam reminiscing about his friend and thinking about various memories. These moments allow you to get to know Chris through how Sam saw him and the connection the two of them have. This gives the story a solid foundation of friendship in the background of Sam’s journey and adds to his motivation. As he searches for his answers, the mystery delves deeper into the secrets of the planet and his own destiny. The mystery begins with a single clue left by Chip so Sam’s only option is to get to know the residents which reflects Chris’ journey.

The search for a friend evolves into uncovering the truth about his own destiny as secrets about his father are revealed and he discovers a connection with the planet. His dreams provide hints at a greater destiny and introduce the mysterious Iloora who provides the key to Chris’s whereabouts and the planet’s secrets. A feeling of longing is underneath as he thinks about his home which balances against the connection the residents have with the planet. The planet has a heightened awareness that connects the residents to it through this otherworldly sense of knowing which allows Sam to have a foray into these mystical and amazing secrets. The planet is built around an idea of balance with fear as a threat to it for fear can cause a balance to become lost. Andresen has created a science fiction exploration that delves into balance, unity, awareness, and peace of self.

The story blends elements of science fiction adventure and exploration into a meditative story about balance, your spiritual essence, knowledge, enlightenment, and love. The spiritual elements of the story unfold as Sam uncovers more about the planet and the deeper his connection becomes to the residents there. The culture of the planet is brought to life through vivid details incorporating elements of awareness and connection through the meaning of specific colors, the use of dreams, crystals, and the road to enlightenment. As the story unfolds, you’ll learn more about the planet, discover Chris’s whereabouts, and the connection that Sam has.

The Crystalline Planet is a charming exploration of a mysterious new planet that brings to life a quest to find a missing friend, the discovery of destiny, and a meditative journey that uncovers the meaning of enlightenment and your own essence.