The Opening (The Universal Portals Book 1) by J. Blanes is a fascinating tale of mystery and adventure. Twenty-one-year-old Keira is doing journalism and she manages to get a big story. But her investigation and scoop turn ugly and she has no choice but to get out of town when it comes to her safety. She and her friend Dylan hide in the farm of their mutual friend Albert. Albert is a genius who is very much interested in astronomy. The story takes a different turn when Albert's astronomical equipment manages to record a message from space. The plot sees the trio going to an unknown destination away from Earth, which leaves them wondering who their kidnappers are. Will they be able to find out who their captors are? And, most of all, why these kidnappers want them dead.

The author weaves a seamless plot with a lot of twists, turns, intrigue and suspense that make the story riveting. The meshing of reality and fantasy has been done masterfully. Keira, Dylan and Albert have been portrayed well and they take readers on an exciting journey with them through the alien land. The supporting characters aid the main characters in making this adventure story thrilling. The sudden change in the lives of these three friends and their journey to another place is exhilarating and, at the same time, filled with anticipation and fear. The narration is excellent, making the story fluid. Readers will want to read the next book.

J. Blanes shows budding talent in volume one of the sci-fi series, The Universal Portals. In The Opening, Kieira, an enthusiastic journalist, Albert, a brilliant young scientist, and Dylan, a witty kid full of street smarts, find themselves on board a space ship. This small band of friends was hungry for adventure, yet they find themselves way beyond the normal idea of exploration. Before they know it, they are eating unusual food and wearing designer spacesuits. They are uncertain of where they are going and why when a small, mysterious creature appears, claiming to be their guide. Their journey into the unknown transports them through interstellar portals on a rescue mission to fulfil a mysterious guest. Facing death, and doubtful if their mission will be a success, they cleave to the hope of one day returning to Earth. But first they must survive the battle against a military-bred alien force.

J. Blanes writes an enjoyable sci-fi read for the young at heart. The Universal Portals, The Opening is a perfect blend of interstellar adventure, fierce and grotesque aliens, humor and sarcasm. Figuratively written, the book enables you to experience the sounds, smells and sights of outer space. The details given to the imagery of the spacecraft and alien planets are decisive and clear. Without overloading you, J. Blanes gradually reveals the customs, history and the characters of the alien worlds within the story. The plot develops with ease, peaking with excitement, and feeds the reader’s curiosity. This narrative is far from being boring, it is full of surprises. When one is expecting the worst, a twist in fate or dumb luck bails out the main characters. Phew! Youthful innocence coupled with universal galactic warfare, what’s not to love! The Universal Portals, The Opening primes you for its continuing saga. As a reader, you are left anticipating The Middle Game.