1. About the Authors
Jesper Ersgård and Joakim Ersgård are a Swedish brother duo known for crafting thrilling science fiction adventures. Joakim, with a background in film direction and screenwriting, and Jesper, with experience in TV content development, bring a cinematic and fast-paced storytelling style to their books. Their works often explore survival in extreme conditions, extraterrestrial mysteries, and the human psyche under cosmic stress. Black Star – Book 1 exemplifies their gripping style and dramatic flair.
2. About the Narrator
Black Star – Book 1 is narrated by William Hope, a seasoned actor and voice artist recognized for his deep, commanding voice and dynamic audiobook performances. Known for his roles in both sci-fi and thriller genres, Hope’s narration adds gravity and urgency to the already intense storyline of Black Star. His pacing, tone modulation, and emotional range make him an ideal match for such high-stakes storytelling.
3. About the Book
Black Star – Book 1 kicks off with the mysterious disappearance of a commercial flight from Los Angeles to Stockholm. Three men – a disgraced journalist, a hardened general, and a NASA scientist – awaken on a strange planet, forced to survive and uncover a threat that could destroy Earth. The book blends science fiction with thriller and survival elements, touching on cosmic horror and speculative biology.
With over 400 ratings on Storytel and an average score of 4.1/5, this opening entry in the Black Star series stands out for its cinematic pacing and high-concept mystery. While it hasn’t received any major literary awards yet, its growing audience indicates strong appeal within sci-fi circles.
4. Review of the Book
As a novel, Black Star – Book 1 thrives on pace and tension. The Ersgårds craft a mysterious world full of danger, otherworldly creatures, and eerie landscapes. The plot develops quickly, keeping readers engaged through frequent twists and action-driven sequences.
However, character development is one of the book’s weaker aspects. While Monty, the main protagonist, is relatable, he lacks deep psychological complexity. Supporting characters such as Henry Jäger and Emma feel underdeveloped, at times reduced to symbols or plot devices. Some dialogues, particularly around religion and philosophy, come off as overly scripted or shallow.
Despite these flaws, the book’s imaginative setting, suspenseful structure, and thematic ambition make it a rewarding experience for fans of the genre.
Keywords used: Review, Book, Audiobook, Sci-fi novel, Thriller, Jesper Ersgård, Joakim Ersgård
5. Review of the Audiobook
The audiobook version of Black Star – Book 1, narrated by William Hope, elevates the entire experience. His deep, expressive voice is perfect for conveying suspense, and his delivery during action scenes is tight and exhilarating. In moments of fear or isolation, Hope slows down and shifts tone, enhancing the emotional depth.
On Audible, the audiobook received 5/5 for performance and 4/5 overall, though only one public review is currently visible. On Audiobooks.com and Storytel, listeners praise the clear audio quality and Hope’s immersive narration.
Some listeners expressed interest in more background effects or atmospheric sounds to deepen the cinematic feel—something that may be explored in future installments.
6. Who Should Read This Book?
Black Star – Book 1 is ideal for:
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Fans of science fiction, space thrillers, and survival fiction
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Audiobook enthusiasts looking for a fast-paced, immersive listen
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Readers who enjoyed titles like The Martian, Lost, or Annihilation
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Beginners to audiobooks – due to accessible narration and exciting story structure
Its high-concept plot and engaging performance make it suitable for both casual listeners and hardcore sci-fi fans.
7. Conclusion
Black Star – Book 1 is a powerful introduction to a promising sci-fi series. While not flawless in its character arcs, the book succeeds in world-building, suspense, and keeping listeners hooked. William Hope’s narration significantly enhances the story, making it an excellent choice for audiobook lovers.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of science fiction or just exploring the genre, Black Star deserves a spot on your playlist.
8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook
You can find Black Star – Book 1 on the following platforms:
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Audiobooks.com: Stream on demand via app or browser
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Audible: Available with a 30-day free trial or for purchase at ~$7.69
Tip: Sign up for a trial or membership to unlock full access and enjoy the audiobook anytime, anywhere.
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