Still Falling (Solstice 31 Saga: Book 1)

Barcus, a worker seeking stability, finds himself the sole survivor of the Ventura after it is attacked by an automated defense system during a planet survey. Stranded on a remote planet, he grapples with loneliness and the mysterious deaths of his crew, aided only by Em, an artificial intelligence designed for survival. As Barcus confronts the ongoing genocide of the planet's native population, he faces moral dilemmas that challenge his resolve and humanity. Amidst his quest for answers and survival, he must navigate his anger and the haunting connections he begins to forge with the locals.