Steve Rzasa’s For Us Humans takes on big theological dilemmas while wrestling with an alien art heist. Unlike some sci-fi authors who attempt creating new alien races, Rzasa’s alien race feels inventive. Occasionally the snarky, smart-aleck antagonism between the main cop duo feels childish. However, once the action ramps up about halfway through the novel, this adventure morphs into a complex fusion of intergalactic conspiracy, prejudice erasure, redemption narrative, and call to personal revival. The story wraps with space battles and a surprise family reunion, and its theme of divine intent in all things is carried to its full conclusion.

Best for: Fans of sci-fi who like nerdy references and wisecracks mixed with light exploration of biblical salvation themes.

Discern: Some light vulgarity and innuendo, descriptions of female characters’ tight blouses, and hero’s anger issues. Some violence is lightly sketched or even campy.