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Chaotic Orbits #3
Last Chance to Save the World
The explosive, satisfying conclusion to the Chaotic Orbits novella trilogy sees Ada and Rian breaking into a high-security facility to give Earth a fighting chance at survival
Sexy, fast, fun and funny, this happily-ever-after ending is perfect for fans of the Murderbot novels and the Wayfairers series
After a few weeks trapped on board a spaceship with Ada (and, oh look, there’s only one bed), Rian has to admit that maybe Ada’s rebels have a point. The nanobots poised to be unleashed on Earth are infected with malware that will ultimately leave the residents of Earth in a worse position than they’re in now. But is it too late?
Ada and Rian arrive on Earth with little time to spare. Together, they have to break into a high-security facility and infect the nanobots with a counter-virus before they’re released in order to give Earth a fighting chance. And if Ada happens to notice some great tech laying around in this high-security facility she shouldn’t have access to and then happens to steal a bunch of it when Rian’s not looking? Well, he knew who she was before he teamed up with her. And if he wants it back, he’s going to have to catch her first.
With countless twists and turns, this enemies-to-lovers slow-burn and high-tension romance plays on a Sherlock and Moriarity character dynamic rooted in science fiction with a heavy romance and mystery angle.
Sexy, fast, fun and funny, this happily-ever-after ending is perfect for fans of the Murderbot novels and the Wayfairers series
After a few weeks trapped on board a spaceship with Ada (and, oh look, there’s only one bed), Rian has to admit that maybe Ada’s rebels have a point. The nanobots poised to be unleashed on Earth are infected with malware that will ultimately leave the residents of Earth in a worse position than they’re in now. But is it too late?
Ada and Rian arrive on Earth with little time to spare. Together, they have to break into a high-security facility and infect the nanobots with a counter-virus before they’re released in order to give Earth a fighting chance. And if Ada happens to notice some great tech laying around in this high-security facility she shouldn’t have access to and then happens to steal a bunch of it when Rian’s not looking? Well, he knew who she was before he teamed up with her. And if he wants it back, he’s going to have to catch her first.
With countless twists and turns, this enemies-to-lovers slow-burn and high-tension romance plays on a Sherlock and Moriarity character dynamic rooted in science fiction with a heavy romance and mystery angle.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2025
55 people are currently reading
1105 people want to read
About the author
Beth Revis
59 books6,724 followersBeth Revis writes books. She also eats too much chocolate, wishes she could travel more, and prefers puppies to people. Beth lives in rural NC with her boys: one husband, one son, two very large puppies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 475 reviews
March 3, 2025
Huge thanks to DAW & NetGalley for the ARC! 💌 Now, let’s get into the drama…
THE AUDACITY. The blurb promised an explosive, satisfying conclusion, but instead, I got left HANGING off a goddamn CLIFF. I AM SCREAMING.
This was supposed to be the final book. THE FINAL BOOK. The moment we get the emotional payoff, the closure, the romance. But nope. Instead, we get an ending that feels like someone ripped the last chapter out and set it on fire.
Listen, I was rolling with it. The plot? Cool. The space heist? Fun. The tension? On point. But the second I realized that this was how the trilogy was ending? Instant downgrade. If I had known from the start that I wasn’t getting a HEA, I never would have started this series in the first place. WHY MARKET THIS AS A ROMANCE WHEN IT’S NOT GONNA GIVE ME A ROMANTIC PAYOFF??
🚀 What Worked:
✧ Ada and Rian’s dynamic is chef’s kiss. Enemies-to-lovers—except they never actually become lovers, and NOT in a good, slow-burn way. In a frustrating, rip-my-hair-out way. The tension? The cat-and-mouse game? So good. The lack of resolution? A crime.
✧ The action scenes were fast-paced, and the sci-fi elements were solid.
✧ I love Ada’s morally grey, chaotic energy. She steals things for fun, and honestly, I respect that.
💔 What Absolutely Did NOT Work:
✧ MISLEADING BLURB. Don’t tell me it’s an “explosive, satisfying conclusion” when it’s just a setup for… nothing.
✧ ROMANCE BLUEBALLING. We spent THREE BOOKS watching Ada and Rian circle each other, and for what??
✧ THE CLIFFHANGER. Excuse me, where is my ending?? WHERE.
I don’t know if Beth Revis is planning a secret fourth book, a companion series, or if she just wants us to suffer. But I feel TRICKED.
If you’re here for the action and worldbuilding? Sure, go for it. But if you’re here for the romance? Set your expectations LOW.
⭐ Final Rating: 2 Stars ⭐ (It was a 3 until the betrayal hit. I am petty.)
This book personally attacked me, and I am NOT OKAY. 😭
THE AUDACITY. The blurb promised an explosive, satisfying conclusion, but instead, I got left HANGING off a goddamn CLIFF. I AM SCREAMING.
This was supposed to be the final book. THE FINAL BOOK. The moment we get the emotional payoff, the closure, the romance. But nope. Instead, we get an ending that feels like someone ripped the last chapter out and set it on fire.
Listen, I was rolling with it. The plot? Cool. The space heist? Fun. The tension? On point. But the second I realized that this was how the trilogy was ending? Instant downgrade. If I had known from the start that I wasn’t getting a HEA, I never would have started this series in the first place. WHY MARKET THIS AS A ROMANCE WHEN IT’S NOT GONNA GIVE ME A ROMANTIC PAYOFF??
🚀 What Worked:
✧ Ada and Rian’s dynamic is chef’s kiss. Enemies-to-lovers—except they never actually become lovers, and NOT in a good, slow-burn way. In a frustrating, rip-my-hair-out way. The tension? The cat-and-mouse game? So good. The lack of resolution? A crime.
✧ The action scenes were fast-paced, and the sci-fi elements were solid.
✧ I love Ada’s morally grey, chaotic energy. She steals things for fun, and honestly, I respect that.
💔 What Absolutely Did NOT Work:
✧ MISLEADING BLURB. Don’t tell me it’s an “explosive, satisfying conclusion” when it’s just a setup for… nothing.
✧ ROMANCE BLUEBALLING. We spent THREE BOOKS watching Ada and Rian circle each other, and for what??
✧ THE CLIFFHANGER. Excuse me, where is my ending?? WHERE.
I don’t know if Beth Revis is planning a secret fourth book, a companion series, or if she just wants us to suffer. But I feel TRICKED.
If you’re here for the action and worldbuilding? Sure, go for it. But if you’re here for the romance? Set your expectations LOW.
⭐ Final Rating: 2 Stars ⭐ (It was a 3 until the betrayal hit. I am petty.)
This book personally attacked me, and I am NOT OKAY. 😭
February 27, 2025
What…. What do you mean, “trilogy?” What do you mean “conclusion”? That wasn’t actually the END, was it?
This was a perfectly decent book but an incredibly unsatisfying conclusion, so I'm honestly at a loss as to how to rate it. The overarching plot wrapped up nicely, following through on its messaging about climate preservation with a respectable anti-capitalist punch. And yet... this series very much reads like a romance first and foremost, the plot constructed around shoving the characters together and making their dynamic work rather than the other way around. And the characters... aren't finished. I understand that with the cat-and-mouse element they've got going on, it might be unsatisfying to wrap up with a traditional and clear cut HEA; there was probably always going to be an element of open-endedness, a continuation of the chase. But the romance has not romanced. I'm left wondering if there is going to be a surprise fourth book, or if we're maybe doing multiple "trilogies" that create a longer series, Brandon Sanderson style.
Otherwise... How dare this series do this to me?!?!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a perfectly decent book but an incredibly unsatisfying conclusion, so I'm honestly at a loss as to how to rate it. The overarching plot wrapped up nicely, following through on its messaging about climate preservation with a respectable anti-capitalist punch. And yet... this series very much reads like a romance first and foremost, the plot constructed around shoving the characters together and making their dynamic work rather than the other way around. And the characters... aren't finished. I understand that with the cat-and-mouse element they've got going on, it might be unsatisfying to wrap up with a traditional and clear cut HEA; there was probably always going to be an element of open-endedness, a continuation of the chase. But the romance has not romanced. I'm left wondering if there is going to be a surprise fourth book, or if we're maybe doing multiple "trilogies" that create a longer series, Brandon Sanderson style.
Otherwise... How dare this series do this to me?!?!
*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 13, 2025
This is a decent little series. Although I’m not sure I’d call it a series; it’s really just one book split into three novella sized chunks. I would recommend reading all 3 three instalments in a row (something I rarely do). Unlike Murderbot it really is all a continuation in sequence of heavily related events.
If you are hoping for a lot of romance here you will get almost none. There is some light flirting, hoping, but otherwise do not expect any fireworks. As for actual fireworks, there are a couple of those in the end. This book focuses on a release of nanotechnology that is going to save original Earth from its polluted trashy existence. The actual heist/break-in part of the story is pretty good; which is also true through the first two books. The science fiction element is fine; the core of Chaotic Orbital series is really the heists that happen in order to get to our final event.
I really enjoyed our leading lady. She is both snarky and just sentimental/emotional enough. Reminded me a bit of myself (lol); although she’s much smarter than I am! The final reveals are very well done and worth the investment into the series. Beth Revis delivers on her endings; as I find she usually does.
My biggest reason for dropping this to four stars is because it should have been one continuous book. I’m not a fan of breaking up books into novella chunks just because (although it does help the reading challenge numbers) and find it too ‘cash grabby’ for my liking. That said, if I saw nice editions of this one out there I’d likely add them to my print collection. It’s certainly a fun enough read I could see revisiting them (and next time I’d read them continuously). If you want some fun heist stories with a sci-fi setting these are definitely a cozy choice.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
If you are hoping for a lot of romance here you will get almost none. There is some light flirting, hoping, but otherwise do not expect any fireworks. As for actual fireworks, there are a couple of those in the end. This book focuses on a release of nanotechnology that is going to save original Earth from its polluted trashy existence. The actual heist/break-in part of the story is pretty good; which is also true through the first two books. The science fiction element is fine; the core of Chaotic Orbital series is really the heists that happen in order to get to our final event.
I really enjoyed our leading lady. She is both snarky and just sentimental/emotional enough. Reminded me a bit of myself (lol); although she’s much smarter than I am! The final reveals are very well done and worth the investment into the series. Beth Revis delivers on her endings; as I find she usually does.
My biggest reason for dropping this to four stars is because it should have been one continuous book. I’m not a fan of breaking up books into novella chunks just because (although it does help the reading challenge numbers) and find it too ‘cash grabby’ for my liking. That said, if I saw nice editions of this one out there I’d likely add them to my print collection. It’s certainly a fun enough read I could see revisiting them (and next time I’d read them continuously). If you want some fun heist stories with a sci-fi setting these are definitely a cozy choice.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
May 29, 2025
Space romance cat and mouse chase update was fun
December 6, 2024
Splitting this series into three novellas is nothing but a cash grab on the part of the publisher. This series should have been one book. The first novella had enough substance to be fine in its own but the second one did not. Maybe if my library has it I will read the conclusion but I certainly won’t spend any money on it.
April 20, 2025
Beth Revis did it again with the ending of her space opera Chaotic Worlds trilogy with Last Chance to Save the World.
The snarky Ada and straight laced Rian once again provide another book filled with unexpected twists and likable characters. Even though Ada is shady as heck, you can’t help rooting for her. Beth Revis describes this series as a spacemance and I love it.
I read this novella in one sitting because there was no way I was able to put it down with everything going on. Those incredible twists, the banter, the characters, the future tech, the flirting, the romance… This novella had it all.
In Last Chance to Save the World, Ada and Rian are now on Earth to stop nanobots from destroying the world. Do they succeed? No spoilers!
I’m sad to leave this series and these characters behind. I would love to see future sequels, (hint, hint!) with Ada and Rian!
*Thanks so much to partner Daw Books, and to NetGalley for the gifted eARC!*
The snarky Ada and straight laced Rian once again provide another book filled with unexpected twists and likable characters. Even though Ada is shady as heck, you can’t help rooting for her. Beth Revis describes this series as a spacemance and I love it.
I read this novella in one sitting because there was no way I was able to put it down with everything going on. Those incredible twists, the banter, the characters, the future tech, the flirting, the romance… This novella had it all.
In Last Chance to Save the World, Ada and Rian are now on Earth to stop nanobots from destroying the world. Do they succeed? No spoilers!
I’m sad to leave this series and these characters behind. I would love to see future sequels, (hint, hint!) with Ada and Rian!
*Thanks so much to partner Daw Books, and to NetGalley for the gifted eARC!*
March 17, 2025
I love this series so much they're such amazing palette cleansers!
Are they kind of the same plot each time? Yes. Am I stressed by the end and loving the will they won't they vibes that we get the whole time? Also yes. We got to get more of Ada's backstory this time, which I loved. The heist vibes, the rage against the ma, the Castle/Bones copaganda rom com will they/won't they vibes? so delicious.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.
For fans of:
Are they kind of the same plot each time? Yes. Am I stressed by the end and loving the will they won't they vibes that we get the whole time? Also yes. We got to get more of Ada's backstory this time, which I loved. The heist vibes, the rage against the ma, the Castle/Bones copaganda rom com will they/won't they vibes? so delicious.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.
For fans of:
May 4, 2025
Well that was a super fast listen!! I’ve read the other books in this series as arcs and wanted to finish out the rest of the books! These are super fast reads set in a space station. There is a little action, humor, and some fun flirtation.
This didn’t feel like the last book in a series, I could have sworn there was one more! And I kind of wish there was. Such a fun little series!
This didn’t feel like the last book in a series, I could have sworn there was one more! And I kind of wish there was. Such a fun little series!
April 15, 2025
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Nanobots are about to be released on Earth to clean up the environment. One problem, they are secretly designed to fail after a few years so Earth will be enslaved to purchase more upgrades for the nanobots in the future from a mega corporation. Ada and Rain have one Last Chance to Save the World in the conclusion to the Chaotic Orbits novella series.
Ada might seem like she is little impetuous and does everything off the cuff. But, this simply is not true. She is extremely cunning and always has a plan within a plan. Rain thinks he might have a handle on her this time since he is in on the plan from the beginning, but the reader is aware that just probably isn't true, from hints dropped along the way. The chemistry between them is palpable and I always enjoy a good bad girl meets good guy scenario. The question is, how much can Ada corrupt Rain?
This novella is action packed as we go with Ada and Rain back to the original earth for their final heist. This is Ada's original home, where her very interesting mother lives. Quite a few threads that started in Full Speed to A Crash Landing are all tied up and we learn more about Ada and her family. Ada's father died due to climate sickness, starting her journey into a life a little (or a lot) outside the law. Now we learn how it impacted her mother.
The question is; Will Rain betray Ada in the end after the heist is over or will he admit he probably loves her and help her on her way. Because as Ada says;
The Chaotic Orbits series has been a lot of fun for me. I enjoyed all the stories leading to this final moment and the longing between Ada and Rain as they circle one another. All the books are fast paced and action packed with some surprises in the end. Even though this story arc is complete, I'd love to see if Beth Revis has some ideas for another series with these characters.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Nanobots are about to be released on Earth to clean up the environment. One problem, they are secretly designed to fail after a few years so Earth will be enslaved to purchase more upgrades for the nanobots in the future from a mega corporation. Ada and Rain have one Last Chance to Save the World in the conclusion to the Chaotic Orbits novella series.
Ada might seem like she is little impetuous and does everything off the cuff. But, this simply is not true. She is extremely cunning and always has a plan within a plan. Rain thinks he might have a handle on her this time since he is in on the plan from the beginning, but the reader is aware that just probably isn't true, from hints dropped along the way. The chemistry between them is palpable and I always enjoy a good bad girl meets good guy scenario. The question is, how much can Ada corrupt Rain?
Still. That man is a rule follower, through and through. And if there is one thing I've learned, it's that you can never trust people who trust the law.
This novella is action packed as we go with Ada and Rain back to the original earth for their final heist. This is Ada's original home, where her very interesting mother lives. Quite a few threads that started in Full Speed to A Crash Landing are all tied up and we learn more about Ada and her family. Ada's father died due to climate sickness, starting her journey into a life a little (or a lot) outside the law. Now we learn how it impacted her mother.
The question is; Will Rain betray Ada in the end after the heist is over or will he admit he probably loves her and help her on her way. Because as Ada says;
The job isn't finished when the last piece of the puzzle falls into place. A job is only finished after the getaway.
The Chaotic Orbits series has been a lot of fun for me. I enjoyed all the stories leading to this final moment and the longing between Ada and Rain as they circle one another. All the books are fast paced and action packed with some surprises in the end. Even though this story arc is complete, I'd love to see if Beth Revis has some ideas for another series with these characters.
September 6, 2025
Reread, September 2025 - I previously read this as an ebook advanced copy so I wanted to reread the series on audio, and I’m glad I did! Hearing Rian read footnote 6 at the end?? I’m feral.
Like I said previously, this doesn’t really feel like the end of this story and I’m kinda bummed that it apparently is.
****
Original review, Feb 2025 - So the description of this book says this is an “explosive, satisfying conclusion to the Chaotic Orbits novella trilogy” and also says it’s a happily-ever-after ending, and while I did enjoy this a lot, I’m not sure if I would describe it as a satisfying conclusion or as having a happily-ever-after ending. The way this finished felt similar to the other books - like there was another book and adventure with Ada and Rian to come.
This book definitely felt sexier than the other two, it was full of sexual tension and banter. The push and pull between these two was hot, and I ate it up. I love Ada’s humour, and the way she talks to everyone but also her inner monologue.
I really want to read most of Beth Revis’ writing after this. I loved the writing style of this trilogy, I truly didn’t want to put any of the books down from the moment I started reading them. I’m actually quite bummed that this is only a trilogy because I’d love to keep reading more about Ada. She kept me on my toes and the more I learned about her, the more I liked her.
I already have a physical copy of this book pre-ordered, and I’d definitely recommend it. But I do wish the description was different, especially about the HEA, since that’s not how it came across to me. Oh, and I also wish we would have seen the crew of the Halifax again! But I do understand why we didn’t.
Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this book! I voluntarily read this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Like I said previously, this doesn’t really feel like the end of this story and I’m kinda bummed that it apparently is.
****
Original review, Feb 2025 - So the description of this book says this is an “explosive, satisfying conclusion to the Chaotic Orbits novella trilogy” and also says it’s a happily-ever-after ending, and while I did enjoy this a lot, I’m not sure if I would describe it as a satisfying conclusion or as having a happily-ever-after ending. The way this finished felt similar to the other books - like there was another book and adventure with Ada and Rian to come.
This book definitely felt sexier than the other two, it was full of sexual tension and banter. The push and pull between these two was hot, and I ate it up. I love Ada’s humour, and the way she talks to everyone but also her inner monologue.
I really want to read most of Beth Revis’ writing after this. I loved the writing style of this trilogy, I truly didn’t want to put any of the books down from the moment I started reading them. I’m actually quite bummed that this is only a trilogy because I’d love to keep reading more about Ada. She kept me on my toes and the more I learned about her, the more I liked her.
I already have a physical copy of this book pre-ordered, and I’d definitely recommend it. But I do wish the description was different, especially about the HEA, since that’s not how it came across to me. Oh, and I also wish we would have seen the crew of the Halifax again! But I do understand why we didn’t.
Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this book! I voluntarily read this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 16, 2025
Last Chance to Save the World had all the ingredients for an electrifying conclusion—high-stakes heists, a morally gray heroine, and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance with undeniable chemistry. Ada and Rian’s dynamic, reminiscent of a sci-fi Sherlock and Moriarty, kept me engaged, and the tension between them (especially with the classic “only one bed” trope) was a highlight.
That said, this trilogy ultimately fizzled out rather than ending with a bang. The first book set up an intriguing premise, but each installment seemed to lose momentum, with the third being the weakest. Honestly, I don’t think these short books should have been separate—this story would have been much stronger as a single, well-paced novel rather than a fragmented trilogy.
Still, Revis delivers plenty of action, witty banter, and some clever twists. If you’re here for the romance and don’t mind a bit of a messy execution, Last Chance to Save the World might still be worth the ride.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
That said, this trilogy ultimately fizzled out rather than ending with a bang. The first book set up an intriguing premise, but each installment seemed to lose momentum, with the third being the weakest. Honestly, I don’t think these short books should have been separate—this story would have been much stronger as a single, well-paced novel rather than a fragmented trilogy.
Still, Revis delivers plenty of action, witty banter, and some clever twists. If you’re here for the romance and don’t mind a bit of a messy execution, Last Chance to Save the World might still be worth the ride.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 28, 2025
This was so much fun and my favorite of the three.
I'm not going to give anything away because this story is deliciously layered and I want anyone who reads it to sit back and enjoy the twists and turns.
Ada and Rian are so smart and have such great chemistry and I love reading them interact. More so her knowing exactly what he's up to and him always being a step behind.
I could easily read another million pages of these two.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I'm not going to give anything away because this story is deliciously layered and I want anyone who reads it to sit back and enjoy the twists and turns.
Ada and Rian are so smart and have such great chemistry and I love reading them interact. More so her knowing exactly what he's up to and him always being a step behind.
I could easily read another million pages of these two.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
August 26, 2025
False advertising! This is not romance!
This series is actually a three-part serialized novel. The entire series is presented in the single, first-person POV of Ada. She is a morally dark-gray character who admits somewhere toward the end of the first book that she is a con artist whose first priority is getting paid by whoever hires her.
Across all three books, Ada keeps seductively leading her romantic interest, Rian, around by his libido. He is supposedly a brilliant law enforcement officer, but her conscienceless shenanigans reduce him to the level of Dudley Do-Right. They never do more than kiss, and neither one of them ever fully trusts the other. And with good reason. Ada is a liar and a thief. Based on this nonsense, it's no big surprise that they don't fall in love, and there is no HEA.
Over the course of the series, I got sick of enduring Ada's endless snark. I can only presume that this is what is intended to supposedly make this series funny. It's not funny. All it demonstrates to the reader is that, emotionally and ethically, Ada is an unsympathetic, empty shell with no moral center.
It is also an inexcusable cop-out to use first-person, the most intimate of the different types of POV, without ever allowing the reader to get to know Ada or her goals or motivation other than by watching her behavior. The author might as well have written this book from camera's-eye POV. Even worse, Ada frequently lies, not just to other characters, but to the reader. This is an unforgivable violation of reader trust for first-person POV.
Readers who are fond of heist movies might possibly enjoy this series. I never liked those movies myself, and I should have guessed I was unlikely to enjoy this series either. I only tolerated it because of the false promise that there was going to be a fully realized romance subplot. I'm going to have to reread some Michelle Diener novels to get the bad taste of this series out of my system. MD promises romance, and she delivers it every single time in her science fiction.
I checked out the audiobook version of this series through Hoopla. The narrator is obviously talented, but she expanded on Ava's snark in her performance to the point that it became painful to listen. I kept having to take breaks to get away from it.
This series is actually a three-part serialized novel. The entire series is presented in the single, first-person POV of Ada. She is a morally dark-gray character who admits somewhere toward the end of the first book that she is a con artist whose first priority is getting paid by whoever hires her.
Across all three books, Ada keeps seductively leading her romantic interest, Rian, around by his libido. He is supposedly a brilliant law enforcement officer, but her conscienceless shenanigans reduce him to the level of Dudley Do-Right. They never do more than kiss, and neither one of them ever fully trusts the other. And with good reason. Ada is a liar and a thief. Based on this nonsense, it's no big surprise that they don't fall in love, and there is no HEA.
Over the course of the series, I got sick of enduring Ada's endless snark. I can only presume that this is what is intended to supposedly make this series funny. It's not funny. All it demonstrates to the reader is that, emotionally and ethically, Ada is an unsympathetic, empty shell with no moral center.
It is also an inexcusable cop-out to use first-person, the most intimate of the different types of POV, without ever allowing the reader to get to know Ada or her goals or motivation other than by watching her behavior. The author might as well have written this book from camera's-eye POV. Even worse, Ada frequently lies, not just to other characters, but to the reader. This is an unforgivable violation of reader trust for first-person POV.
Readers who are fond of heist movies might possibly enjoy this series. I never liked those movies myself, and I should have guessed I was unlikely to enjoy this series either. I only tolerated it because of the false promise that there was going to be a fully realized romance subplot. I'm going to have to reread some Michelle Diener novels to get the bad taste of this series out of my system. MD promises romance, and she delivers it every single time in her science fiction.
I checked out the audiobook version of this series through Hoopla. The narrator is obviously talented, but she expanded on Ava's snark in her performance to the point that it became painful to listen. I kept having to take breaks to get away from it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2025
Last Chance to Save the Words starts off right after the events of How to Steal a Galaxy. Ada and Rian are on their way to Earth to save the planet from the release of corrupted nanobots. They must reach Earth and code the nanobots with a counter-virus before they are released. Can they save Earth before it's too late?
Can you love and hate a book at the same time? When it comes to Last Chance to Save the World, the answer is absolutely yes. I loved the last two novellas, and I was so excited for the conclusion of this series. This novella starts out as a five-star read. I loved Ada and Rian's banter and was interested in reading how all of the events from the previous novellas lined up with Ada's plans. However, when it came to the conclusion, I was left disappointed.
The ending seemed to leave on a cliffhanger, leaving us with wondering if we will see these characters in another series or if we will ever get the final conclusion when it comes to the romance between Ada and Rian. I was really hoping for more of an ending, than a conclusion that seemed to leave more questions than answers. Even with my disappointment in the conclusion, I would still rate this series 4 stars overall.
Last Chance to Save the World is out April 8th.
Thank you to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media and DAW for the opportunity to review Last Chance to Save the World. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Can you love and hate a book at the same time? When it comes to Last Chance to Save the World, the answer is absolutely yes. I loved the last two novellas, and I was so excited for the conclusion of this series. This novella starts out as a five-star read. I loved Ada and Rian's banter and was interested in reading how all of the events from the previous novellas lined up with Ada's plans. However, when it came to the conclusion, I was left disappointed.
The ending seemed to leave on a cliffhanger, leaving us with wondering if we will see these characters in another series or if we will ever get the final conclusion when it comes to the romance between Ada and Rian. I was really hoping for more of an ending, than a conclusion that seemed to leave more questions than answers. Even with my disappointment in the conclusion, I would still rate this series 4 stars overall.
Last Chance to Save the World is out April 8th.
Thank you to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media and DAW for the opportunity to review Last Chance to Save the World. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 9, 2025
I finished the last book in this trilogy of shorts, and I both loved and hated it.
Loved it because the wrap up of the story - the heist, the edge-of-my-seat race to the finish - was spectacular. I mean, incredibly well done. I kind of figured some things out, but I believe that was on purpose. Ada, the FMC, has been talking to us (the audience) throughout the narrative, and has been giving us lots of winks and nudges to hint at her plan. So that didn't take anything away for me, it just made me feel like I was in on the plan. So that part gets 5 extremely satisfied stars.
However, the wrap up of the romance was meh. I feel the crackle between the characters, but there's no payoff - we don't get to see them figure out how to be together. I'm not even sure I believe it could work out between them, given who they both are. Which made the flirtation and spark between them something that Ada leaned into for her plan, and I don't resent that because it makes sense. It was a way to keep him off balance. But I kind of feel bummed because I had thought we'd get a romantic payoff alongside the fun of the heist / spy-type action. So that part gets 3 stars.
I'm giving this book 4 stars, but the series overall 4.5. It was fun, and I'll have to check out more from this author.
Loved it because the wrap up of the story - the heist, the edge-of-my-seat race to the finish - was spectacular. I mean, incredibly well done. I kind of figured some things out, but I believe that was on purpose. Ada, the FMC, has been talking to us (the audience) throughout the narrative, and has been giving us lots of winks and nudges to hint at her plan. So that didn't take anything away for me, it just made me feel like I was in on the plan. So that part gets 5 extremely satisfied stars.
However, the wrap up of the romance was meh. I feel the crackle between the characters, but there's no payoff - we don't get to see them figure out how to be together. I'm not even sure I believe it could work out between them, given who they both are. Which made the flirtation and spark between them something that Ada leaned into for her plan, and I don't resent that because it makes sense. It was a way to keep him off balance. But I kind of feel bummed because I had thought we'd get a romantic payoff alongside the fun of the heist / spy-type action. So that part gets 3 stars.
I'm giving this book 4 stars, but the series overall 4.5. It was fun, and I'll have to check out more from this author.
May 14, 2025
“And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you can never trust people who trust the law."
Last Chance to Save the World was such a fun novella. Heck, this whole series was fun to dive into. Though, I will admit that it hurts my head and heart with how it all ended. I can only imagine what's going to happen next and that's not fair to me. I need to know how Rian is going to find Ada again. The cat and mouse game is absolutely needed because I need their reunion like my car needed the rain to wash away the pollen.
I'm not sure what to do now. Is it too much to wish for another book?
February 26, 2025
Thank you to DAW and Netgalley for the review copy in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion in anyway.
The description in the synopsis talks about a satisfying conclusion and a happily-ever after. Spoiler alert: It is not. If you are going into this 'final' book and are expecting things to be properly wrapped up, I'm sorry to say this book will dissapoint you.
This book continues on pretty quickly after the ending of book 2, where she had taken Rian against his will onto her ship. We miss the part where she explains it all to Rian but he seems to be understanding what is happening. Unfortunately they are still on very opposite ends and they can't really trust each other.
I do think that is realistic. But that raised the question, how was the author going to wrap up their relationship in this last book? Because it is clear that it was being steered into a romance from book 1 onwards. If you are expecting a romantic conclusion to this book, I'm sorry to dissapoint you. It isn't here. I don't think it would have been realistic so I understand the authors choice. But the story doesn't feel finished at all.
This book has a conclusion when it comes to how they met and what Ada stole there. However that is about it. There is no true satisfying ending because we don't actual get to see the results. There is no satisfying ending and there is nothing at the end to even make one think about this being a happily ever after.
I am hoping there is going to be either another installment or that there will be a companion trilogy. I understand that this is a novella trilogy but the scope is a little too big at the end of it. Leaving it at just this is going to hugely dissatisfying to many readers.
Having said that, the characters and the writing were great as in the other two novella books. It is a fast paced novella once more that does do justice to the characterization started in the previous two books.
The description in the synopsis talks about a satisfying conclusion and a happily-ever after. Spoiler alert: It is not. If you are going into this 'final' book and are expecting things to be properly wrapped up, I'm sorry to say this book will dissapoint you.
This book continues on pretty quickly after the ending of book 2, where she had taken Rian against his will onto her ship. We miss the part where she explains it all to Rian but he seems to be understanding what is happening. Unfortunately they are still on very opposite ends and they can't really trust each other.
I do think that is realistic. But that raised the question, how was the author going to wrap up their relationship in this last book? Because it is clear that it was being steered into a romance from book 1 onwards. If you are expecting a romantic conclusion to this book, I'm sorry to dissapoint you. It isn't here. I don't think it would have been realistic so I understand the authors choice. But the story doesn't feel finished at all.
This book has a conclusion when it comes to how they met and what Ada stole there. However that is about it. There is no true satisfying ending because we don't actual get to see the results. There is no satisfying ending and there is nothing at the end to even make one think about this being a happily ever after.
I am hoping there is going to be either another installment or that there will be a companion trilogy. I understand that this is a novella trilogy but the scope is a little too big at the end of it. Leaving it at just this is going to hugely dissatisfying to many readers.
Having said that, the characters and the writing were great as in the other two novella books. It is a fast paced novella once more that does do justice to the characterization started in the previous two books.
April 15, 2025
I read this final book entirely too fast. I didn't expect the library hold to come so quickly but I admit this story kept me from going into slump land. In the last book we see Ada and Rian back together again under questionable circumstances but with a singular goal to save Earth. Strom Fetor is the enemy and his climate cleaning nanobots have ulterior motives that Ada is aware of and is planning swap out the evil code with good code with Rian's help. These also have that oh so slowly burning tension for each other all throughout.
I did really enjoy the story. The plot wrapped up real nicely and I love the author's writing style. I didn't read the blurb before requesting the book cause I knew I was 100% going to read it but after reading a couple reviews, I can see how some feel mislead. The very last sentence on this Goodreads blurb has the words "heavy romance". I read a lot of romance novels and I definitely would not call this heavy romance. Maybe lukewarm? There were a couple make out sessions and innuendos about wanting to bone but nothing ever actually happened and the ending is a giant question mark sprinkled with confessions I'm assuming we won't get to see the future state of.
If not for the way the romance went down, it probably would have been a 5 star read for me. Even if you take out the romance aspect, it still ends like we should be waiting for a 4th book even though that book isn't coming. Overall, for a fast paced short read, I enjoyed it. I hope the author decides to dabble in HEA, open door romances because with her storytelling style, I just know they'd be delicious.
I did really enjoy the story. The plot wrapped up real nicely and I love the author's writing style. I didn't read the blurb before requesting the book cause I knew I was 100% going to read it but after reading a couple reviews, I can see how some feel mislead. The very last sentence on this Goodreads blurb has the words "heavy romance". I read a lot of romance novels and I definitely would not call this heavy romance. Maybe lukewarm? There were a couple make out sessions and innuendos about wanting to bone but nothing ever actually happened and the ending is a giant question mark sprinkled with confessions I'm assuming we won't get to see the future state of.
If not for the way the romance went down, it probably would have been a 5 star read for me. Even if you take out the romance aspect, it still ends like we should be waiting for a 4th book even though that book isn't coming. Overall, for a fast paced short read, I enjoyed it. I hope the author decides to dabble in HEA, open door romances because with her storytelling style, I just know they'd be delicious.
August 22, 2025
so stupid I've been putting off writing the review because I keep thinking about whether I want to A) go through and rip it to shreds or B) preserve the ever-ticking seconds of my one wild and precious life. an early wakeup tomorrow (picture day, baby) means I'm rather arbitrarily selecting option B.
hate to see a novella series get fumbled this bad, to anyone considering reading this based on my cautiously optimistic review of the first installment, save yrself
hate to see a novella series get fumbled this bad, to anyone considering reading this based on my cautiously optimistic review of the first installment, save yrself
May 4, 2025
This book is maddening. It’s neither sexy not conclusive, both things that were promised in the blurb. There more plot than in the second book, but the twists don’t hit that hard because I find Ada irritating. She’s either congratulating herself on seemingly outsmarting everyone or ragging on Rian. It gets old.
April 23, 2025
I love this series, so I looked forward to seeing how Revis would wrap it up. And I was...underwhelmed. I wanted more. The plot didn't feel fully fleshed out, and the interactions between Ada and Rian didn't flow like they had in the previous books. They still had that fun, flirty banter I've come to love, but something still felt lacking. I'm almost hoping that this isn't the end of their story and Revis will come out with another book. If not, while it's not my favorite installment, I still loved the series and would recommend it if you're looking for an entertaining sci-fi to binge.
April 7, 2025
The Chaotic Orbits series is a fun sci-fi romance. This third book continues the fun with a high-stakes heist and plenty of banter between Ada and Rian. If you enjoyed the first two novellas, I'm sure you'll like this one as well . My only complaint is that the ending didn't feel like a conclusion.
April 5, 2025
Don't promote your books as enemies-to-lovers if they NEVER become lovers!!
May 11, 2025
These were mostly fun, quick reads. I never cared much for the "romance," but the plot was intriguing & suspenseful. Ada, the main character, annoyed me so much (and not in a good way). I did like that she was always keeping a secret from the reader, and it was interesting to see her plans revealed by the end.
March 28, 2025
This one picks up right where the last novella left off, with Ada and Rian racing to stop corrupted nanobots from destroying Earth. Their banter? Still top-tier. Tension? Absolutely there. And Ada being five steps ahead of everyone? Of course.
As an electrical engineer, this series totally speaks to my nerdy heart. Tech-savvy heroines, sci-fi heists, clever twists, and just the right amount of chaos? Yes, please. I continue to love the mix of high-stakes action and flirty tension. The audiobook narration is still great too.
That said, I wouldn’t call this a satisfying conclusion. The plot was wrapped up nicely,
I had a blast with this series overall. If you're into techy smartass heroines, slow burns, morally gray choices, and government agents who catch feelings but pretend they haven’t, this one's for you. Definitely read all three back-to-back for the best experience.
As an electrical engineer, this series totally speaks to my nerdy heart. Tech-savvy heroines, sci-fi heists, clever twists, and just the right amount of chaos? Yes, please. I continue to love the mix of high-stakes action and flirty tension. The audiobook narration is still great too.
That said, I wouldn’t call this a satisfying conclusion. The plot was wrapped up nicely,
I had a blast with this series overall. If you're into techy smartass heroines, slow burns, morally gray choices, and government agents who catch feelings but pretend they haven’t, this one's for you. Definitely read all three back-to-back for the best experience.
May 30, 2025
What the actual #$^&@*?
How is this the end?
As much fun as it was to watch Ada succeed in all her agenda's how about her and Rian?
There's better be more coming about these two...
How is this the end?
As much fun as it was to watch Ada succeed in all her agenda's how about her and Rian?
There's better be more coming about these two...
April 7, 2025
I enjoyed this one a lot! It was exciting, and it was fast paced, and it was full of humor while still being heartfelt. This is a huge win! Why am I not giving it the full five, you ask?
The synopsis says it is to be a "satisfying conclusion". Reader, it was neither satisfying nor a conclusion.
I know others have said this, but it bears repeating, the story was awesome, but it absolutely felt like a set-up for a future installment. So, I will adjust if needed- if I knew there was to be another book, this would have been a five star read for me. As it stands, I am kind of bummed by the end, but enjoyed the rest!
The synopsis says it is to be a "satisfying conclusion". Reader, it was neither satisfying nor a conclusion.
I know others have said this, but it bears repeating, the story was awesome, but it absolutely felt like a set-up for a future installment. So, I will adjust if needed- if I knew there was to be another book, this would have been a five star read for me. As it stands, I am kind of bummed by the end, but enjoyed the rest!
June 30, 2025
3 5 stars
May 17, 2025
Enroute for earth with a plan to save the planet, hostile co-conspirators are up against big corporation and government high security in this Chaotic Orbits series finale. Beth Revis has delivered a tight, high-stakes plot and a nuanced female character to draw readers in.
Last Chance to Save the World is the third novella in a serial-style trilogy that must be read in order.
Rian finds himself in league with his greatest nemesis in a joint venture to thwart corporate greed and save the mechanism that will clean up the tired earth’s water supply and, hence, save the world. Trouble is, Rian can only trust Ada as far as he can throw her and he knows full well she is up to more than an altruistic win for planet earth. Ada knows that Rian is True Blue and will capture her as soon as the job is done. It’s going to be tight, but she’s got contingency plans and knows exactly what she’s doing.
In the past two books, this pair meet, skirmish, and everything is leading up to this last big caper. These are adults, but the books have a youthful feel to the main characters. The twists and turns, false leads, banter and adrenaline rush climaxes have been sizzling reading. I couldn’t wait to see Ada and Rian working together and working against each other once again.
Last Chance to Save the World answers many questions. Some I guessed along the way. It also delivered on the heist-style plot. However, that ending… there is a feeling of completion in many ways, but one big thread is left wide open and it will remain a niggle unless there happens to be more coming from the world of this series. I reiterate that there is completion for the main conflict of the story.
All in all, my anticipation was satisfied with a big finish and all the fun larceny Ada provided and Rian tried to foil in the earlier books. Those who enjoy exciting sci-fi, space opera, and heist plots are the target audience.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About on 5.8.25
Last Chance to Save the World is the third novella in a serial-style trilogy that must be read in order.
Rian finds himself in league with his greatest nemesis in a joint venture to thwart corporate greed and save the mechanism that will clean up the tired earth’s water supply and, hence, save the world. Trouble is, Rian can only trust Ada as far as he can throw her and he knows full well she is up to more than an altruistic win for planet earth. Ada knows that Rian is True Blue and will capture her as soon as the job is done. It’s going to be tight, but she’s got contingency plans and knows exactly what she’s doing.
In the past two books, this pair meet, skirmish, and everything is leading up to this last big caper. These are adults, but the books have a youthful feel to the main characters. The twists and turns, false leads, banter and adrenaline rush climaxes have been sizzling reading. I couldn’t wait to see Ada and Rian working together and working against each other once again.
Last Chance to Save the World answers many questions. Some I guessed along the way. It also delivered on the heist-style plot. However, that ending… there is a feeling of completion in many ways, but one big thread is left wide open and it will remain a niggle unless there happens to be more coming from the world of this series. I reiterate that there is completion for the main conflict of the story.
All in all, my anticipation was satisfied with a big finish and all the fun larceny Ada provided and Rian tried to foil in the earlier books. Those who enjoy exciting sci-fi, space opera, and heist plots are the target audience.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About on 5.8.25
April 15, 2025
This was fun. It wasn't my favorite because as a romance reader, I want to see the happily ever after! And we do not get to see that.
I was warned by other reviews.
It's a fun heist series.
I was warned by other reviews.
It's a fun heist series.
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