Book Review: The Center for Galactic Anomalies

Reviewed by Toni Woodruff

An action-packed, world-shattering novel riddled with secrets and otherworldly creatures

Survalis is a prison world. Kind of. At least to some fantastical or genetically modified beings. Dexia is the best humane telepath they’ve got and the exact right person for the job of changing Tycho, a genetically engineered supersoldier whom someone gave free will. And with that free will, he’s choosing to no longer fight.

But when the two link up, the Federation’s plans to have Dexia convert Tycho back into the ultra-powerful soldier he was—just in case they get into an intergalactic war—are sidetracked. Or are they? Is it going exactly how they wanted?

It turns out everyone’s got secrets and motivations for getting Tycho and Dexia together. And that intergalactic war they’re talking about? It might just be more than “just in case.”

Anything can happen on a world where anomalies—sci-fi/fantasy creatures that pop up from the galaxy’s wormhole systems—are contained. There are thousands of these things floating or sitting or transforming all around Dexia and Tycho at all times. So in a galaxy where the higher-ups are leading us to war and these unique creatures are contained, you better believe there are some good and bad things you’ve never seen before lurking around every corner.

The Center for Galactic Anomalies comes with endless possibilities. Sure, the anomalies are different every time and the worlds have insane fighting systems at their disposal, but it’s also because of Tycho and Dexia. Find me a better super-soldier turned pacifist than Tycho, and Dexia is so good at her job too. She gets more powerful in her abilities as she goes but also more personable and empathetic. The external and the internal are both at play in this action-packed, thought-provoking novel.

Speaking of action—this book is chock-full of it. Whether Tycho wants it or not, he might just be too entangled in a frantically fighting galaxy to get away from it for good. There’s just too much at stake, even if it is just Dexia’s life. The action is well-written and unpredictable, and there is a ton of it. Action sci-fi lovers will find this book catered to them, while those who come for the creatures and personal relationships may feel like too much time is spent on the fight. 

While I’ve only talked about Dexia and Tycho—well-worthy protagonists who are entwined in more ways than one—the novel wouldn’t be the same without its side characters—good, bad, and anomalies alike. Clair is a lovable best friend and a skilled fighter, and you know she’s there to give Dexia backup when it really matters. VonRephid is a character you love to hate, and Jelly is a glimpse into other worlds that illustrates the importance of trust and second chances. Don’t even get me started on the complicated and ultra-powerful Adrius. 

Carly Coleman has established a rich, ever-twisting, powerful universe with this first book in an expected series. The Center for Galactic Anomalies makes a big splash in a genre dependent on newness and innovation. If you’re ready for the intergalactic battle of your life, dive in.

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