A gorgeous 5-star review for PLANET LARA from Nebula!
An extremely well-crafted plot with a confused and lost protagonist who unknowingly arrives at the crossroads of her future path.
The early pages are filled with the opulent and publicised lifestyle of Lara J. Clarke. Feigning an air of indifference, she gloriously goes through the motions of life; her sole complaints are limited to questionable retail customer service and the lack of alcohol at elite functions. On paper, Lara has everything: a pretty boyfriend, a housekeeper, a lavish penthouse, a car, and yet, she acts far from it. Instead, she divulges in bratty behaviour, which summons the flames of anger and innumerable eye-rolls from those around her. Eliza brilliantly creates a feeling of being at wits’ end with Lara. Like an onion, Ms. Gordon artfully unveils the layers of her protagonist with a simple revelation – our girl has lost touch with herself. The vivid descriptive scenes amplify that there was no beginning or end to her persona.
Herein lies an opportunity for a redemptive arc, to turn the wheels of support towards the last living Clarke, and boy, does Eliza Gordon deliver. With her sharp wit and humour, Ms. Clarke dons her big-girl socks as she takes on the role of a Project Administrator. She has one year to prove her worth, or face the consequence of being cut off from her family fortune. When Grandfather Archibald meets his maker, Ms. Clarke takes on safeguarding and operating the private Thalia Island – a manifestation of his bold vision that prides itself on family, sustainability, and eco-friendliness.
She attunes herself to her new surroundings with well-placed, relatable supporting characters that bring out her different sides. Lara’s perceptions and insights evolve and expand. This also extends to finding out more about her mother’s life. Finan Rowleigh is one character who shines bright and holds the mirror for Lara to discover the person she is and realise her full potential. Intellectual conversations and electrifying chemistry are woven by the literary wand of Gordon with passionate and endearing moments.
When a series of calamities reveal a sinister element undermining the security of the island and the residents, Lara and Finan must uphold Archibald’s vision and do everything in their power to ensure the longevity of Thalia Island. But this comes at a price, for old habits die hard. Lara learns this the hard way. But don’t fret, for the domino-effected falling pieces form the foundation of the runaway of the next book in the series. The ending takes the word “cliffhanger” to the next level.
Those who enjoy well-crafted characters, a fusion of love, intelligence, wit, and reading between the lines, look no further. For ardent Eliza Gordon fans, it’s another chance to celebrate her talents, efforts, and courage to expand her creative fortress. A 5-star read!
Thank you, Nebula! I’m so happy you “got” this book.
