A Million Pinpricks is a heart-wrenching tale of self-discovery and the power of love. And perhaps, shows a few life lessons in there as well. Stevie Woods brings up a very human look at death: what do you do when you think you’re about to die? My brain puzzled over this as I watched Commander Taylor Sterling, our doomed hero as he struggles to accept death.

I enjoyed the seamless blend of past and present as Taylor remembers just how he ended up facing death in the first place and also, when he remembers Joel. Joel Campion, a vivid young man that I fell in love with as he and Taylor grow from friends to lovers. Their growing feelings are exquisitely detailed and only add to the steady pacing of the story as Stevie Woods presents a world that sees space exploration as the norm and where science just might in fact, doom us all.

The ending perfectly demonstrates the theory that love is undefeatable, and I applauded as the unbelievable happens and puts a cute touch to an already brilliant story. I more than enjoyed this tale but not only that, it left me thinking which I thoroughly approve of. A Million Pinpricks definitely left a lasting mark on me.

Reviewed by: Nicky