The Dark Beyond the Stars

A Novel

By: Frank M. Robinson

Narrated by: William Dufris

For 2,000 years, the starship Astron has search the galaxy for alien life - without success. Now, just as the ship is falling apart, the only direction left to explore is across the Dark, a 100-generation journey through empty space.The ship's captain - immortal, obessed - refuses to abandon the quest. He will cross the Dark, or destroy the ship trying.

Only Sparrow, a young crewman uncertain of his own past, can stand against the captain, and against the lure and challenge of the dark beyond the stars....

©1991 Frank M. Robinson (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Critic reviews

"Robinson plants plenty of clues for the reader, scattering them skillfully amid exciting action and dialogue. The technical and social aspects of a centuries-long voyage are ingenious and clearly depicted." (Publishers Weekly)

"Robinson demonstrates his storytelling expertise in a gripping psychological sf drama that belongs in most libraries." (Library Journal)

"[T]he true strength of the novel lies in its focus on the human element. Amid all the trappings of large-scale sf, Sparrow's inner turmoil, along with the characters of the other crew members, is consistently presented with insight and compassion." (Kirkus Reviews)

Very good with an annoying ending

I really enjoyed the first 2/3 of this book, REALLY enjoyed. I have a bit of a problem with the ending but overall I found it a very interesting read and I'm glad I read it. I have been looking for sci-fi books with LGBTQ characters and this came up in a google search. I wouldn't say there are LGBTQ characters in this, just a loose idea of sexuality - but definitely written from a straight person's point of view. Again, it isn't the best book I've read but I did really enjoy it and I would say it's worth the read.

Great sci-fi book ! Recommend!

Great book, really liked it. This book is about how precious life is on our planet. Listened to it during daily commute and always looked forward it (story, not traffic). Although the premise of a multi-generational ship is not new, the story was engaging with splatters genuine scientific and philosophical speculation. There is some ‘cuddling’ with crew mates but how else will this generational ship continue? Really liked the author’s style of writing and a few surprises here and there. Great ending too. Will definitely get another book from this author.

excellent sci fi adventure

Just finished the Dark Beyond the Stars by Frank M. Robinson. I first read it many years ago as an adolecent youth and loved it, it was one of the books my best friend and I discussed in depth in the early days of our friendship. Having just finished it again now as an adult I certainly understand specific things within it much better, and other things had different meanings to me now when cited through my old man eyes. Such a great book! the story had me interested, and it was bitter sweet to finish it, particularly with an almost cliffhanger ending that could have become the basis of a sequel, but alas, the author died in 2014 which makes me sad for his passing, but also that these characters will never have another life. the narrator did a great job bringing life to these characters.

too many characters, slow start couldn't finish it. boring details.

only heard first three hours, boring common waste of time. focus on character. amnesia trope. nothing original. did the editor actually skip trimming the fat?

amazing story

the reader did very well, the emotions carried through quite well. I read this book years ago, and it was amazing to hear it again