Giorgio is finally living his dream to work as a radio operator on cargo ships, but little does he know that life has a lot more planned for him. In a strange turn of events, he receives an ominous radio message on one of his voyages, asking him to meet with a peculiar individual. The meeting introduces him to a secret organization and sets him on a path paved with covert operations, futuristic tech, and a lofty ambition to unite the world. Who’s behind the Phoenix, what’s their true aim, and how will Giorgio fare in his new position?

The Saga of the Phoenix is a spellbinding work of literary fiction. This interesting historical fiction is a blend of adventure and science fiction. Beginning in the 20th Century, Galvanini narrates a sailor’s shenanigans before he delves into the young man’s exciting journey as a member of a group looking to change the world. One high point is how Galvanini explores various cultures. He takes readers around the world through the main character’s sea voyage, a worthwhile experience for adventure lovers. The book also doesn’t lack imagination as Galvanini deftly combines fantastic tech with space travel, extraterrestrial life, and political and economic maneuvers, all spiraling into a global utopia. The first few chapters are sprinkled with a bit of intrigue here and there, but once you get past them, you’re in for a fairly exciting ride.

Conflict is the lifeblood of every engaging story. It’s the seemingly insurmountable obstacle the characters have to overcome; the evil that needs to be conquered; or the heart that needs to be won. I would have loved to have seen the conflict built up a bit more in this novel so that it felt on par with the excellent story telling.

The Saga of the Phoenix – volume 1 is a dramatic sea driven adventure story that takes readers on a historical journey that is fun to read.

Pages: 357 | ASIN: B099FHNDM1